Abraham Wachner
A merchant and civic leader who guided Invercargill through the demanding years of the Second World War and its aftermath.
1892–1950 (age 58)·New Zealand politician·Birthday: August 15·The Lost Generation
Biography
Abraham 'Abie' Wachner was a pillar of Invercargill, a man whose story is one of community service rooted in business acumen. Born in 1892, he built a successful career in the retail trade, operating a well-known drapery store that made him a familiar and trusted figure. This local standing propelled him into politics, and he became mayor in 1942, taking the helm of the southern city during the immense pressures of wartime. His leadership was pragmatic and focused on steady governance through a period of rationing and anxiety. His service was recognized with an OBE in 1946, and he remained mayor until his death in 1950, overseeing the early stages of post-war recovery and development, leaving a legacy of stability.
The Lost Generation
1883–1900
Came of age during World War I. Disillusioned by the carnage, they rejected the certainties of the Victorian era and built modernism from the wreckage — in art, literature, and politics.
Abraham was born in 1892, placing them squarely in The Lost Generation. The events that shaped this generation — world wars, depression, and rapid industrialization — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When Abraham Was Born
The biggest hits of 1892
Abraham's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1892Born
President: Benjamin Harrison
1897Started school
President: William McKinley
1905Became a teenager
Einstein publishes the theory of special relativity
President: Theodore Roosevelt
1908Could drive
Ford Model T goes into production
President: Theodore Roosevelt
1910Could vote
Halley's Comet makes its closest approach
President: William Howard Taft
1913Turned 21
The Federal Reserve is established
President: Woodrow Wilson
1922Turned 30
King Tut's tomb discovered in Egypt
President: Warren G. Harding"April Showers" — Al Jolson
1932Turned 40
Amelia Earhart flies solo across the Atlantic
Gas: $0.18/galPresident: Herbert Hoover"Night and Day" — Fred AstaireBest Picture: Grand Hotel
1942Turned 50
Battle of Midway turns the tide in the Pacific
Gas: $0.20/galHome: $3,175Min wage: $0.30/hrPresident: Franklin D. Roosevelt"White Christmas" — Bing CrosbyBest Picture: Mrs. Miniver
1950Died at 58
Korean War begins
Gas: $0.27/galHome: $7,354Min wage: $0.75/hrPresident: Harry S. Truman"Goodnight Irene" — Gordon Jenkins & The WeaversBest Picture: All About Eve
Key Achievements
- Served as the 35th Mayor of Invercargill for eight years, from 1942 until his death.
- Awarded the OBE in 1946 for his civic services.
- Successfully led the city's administration through World War II and the immediate post-war period.
Did You Know?
He was commonly known by the nickname 'Abie'.
Before politics, he was a draper and ran a store called Wachner's Ltd.
He was a member of the Invercargill Licensing Committee.
“A good business serves its customers, and a good council serves its citizens.”
