The names of 40 of Franklin's early settlers have been preserved in a new sign recently installed on Cape Hill's Franklin Early Settlers Walkway.

Put together by the Keep Pukekohe Beautiful Committee in partnership with the former Franklin District Council, the sign unveiling on October 7 and was attended by about 200 immediate descendants of early settlers, community figures and members of Keep Franklin Beautiful.

Member Mary Roberts said the project started in 2004 when a number of families in Franklin donated totara trees which were planted on the Early Settlers Walk Way at Ernie's Reserve in Pukekohe.

Maureen Ferris, also a member of Keep Franklin Beautiful, said late local identity Ernie Alexander began compiling the sign several years ago and when he died the committee decided to finish the project.

"He didn't have all the settlers written down so they had a job rounding up who was who and which ship they came out on."

Mrs Ferris said the turnout to the sign's unveiling was fantastic on the day and families were pleased with the sign.

"Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it, they all thought it was like a reunion"

Franklin Local Board chair Andy Baker, former Franklin District mayor Mark Ball and Keep Franklin Beautiful president Beatle Brougham spoke at the opening.

Immediate descendants from those honoured on the plaques were invited to the ceremony, which was followed by a luncheon.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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