Michael Hart | |
|---|---|
&sq=&lang=&file=File:Michael_Brannan_Hart_portrait.jpg) Portrait of Michael Hart | |
| 7th Mayor of Christchurch | |
| In office 17 December 1873 – 16 December 1874 | |
| Preceded by | Edward Bishop |
| Succeeded by | Fred Hobbs |
| Personal details | |
| Born | c. 1814 Freshford, Somerset, England |
| Died | 9 August 1878 Freshford House, Lichfield Street, Christchurch |
| Spouse(s) | Mary Anne Hart (d. 1866) Ellen Gardner (m. 1866) |
Michael Brannan Hart (c. 1814 – 9 August 1878) was the publican of the White Hart Hotel in Christchurch, New Zealand, that stood on the corner of High and Cashel Streets. It was Christchurch's first hotel. Hart, originally from Freshford, Somerset, England, was one of the first settlers of Christchurch. He was a colourful character and stood for elections to the Canterbury Provincial Council and Parliament, but was unsuccessful. He was elected onto Christchurch City Council in 1869, and was chosen as Mayor of Christchurch 1873–1874 by his fellow councillors. He gave the first chain to the Christchurch mayoral chain. He was the first mayor to wear regalia, modelled on the robes of the Lord Mayor of London. He intended to leave the robes to Christchurch City Council, but after a disagreement, he changed his will and the robes were buried with him.