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HON. THOMAS A. LOW, RENFREW
SUDDEN PASSING SHOCKS RENFREW AND PROVINCE
Home Town Not Generally Aware of Brief Illness – Deep Gloom
Spread Over Whole Country When Death Announced – Friends From
Everywhere Come to Pay Respect and Offer Sympathy
Right Hon. W.L. MacKenzie King Pays Tribute to Former Colleague –
Telegraph and Telephone Messages Received from All Parts of Canada by
Grief Stricken Widow and Son – Funeral, Largest Ever Held Here, Attended by All Classes
Renfrew Mercury February 12, 1931

Renfrew’s citizenry received a decided shock on Monday morning February 9th, when word circulated that the Hon. Thomas A. Low had been claimed by death. It was fairly generally known in town that Mr. Low was confined to bed by illness, but the illness was not thought to be a serious one. It was of about one week’s duration, and set in following a business trip to Montreal. From a cold complications developed, and the distinguished citizen passed away, a victim of influenza. He died at is stately home on Stewart street at 7:30 in the morning.

News of his demise has caused a shock not only in the town of Renfrew, but in the whole county; besides has been heard with much regret throughout the Ottawa Valley; for he was widely known and universally respected. A man of pleasing presence and interesting personality, he made friends everywhere; moreover, as a public man he became known near and far.

Death of Mr. Low in his 60th year is a loss in a business way, in a social way, in a political way and in various other respects. Sympathy deep and widespread gone out to the bereaved wife, who before her marriage was Miss Mamie Dean of Renfrew; to the only son of William Dean Low, to an only sister Mrs.(Rev.) Basil Thompson, of London, Ont. And to an only brother, Mr. Alex Low of Ottawa.

Mr. Low had years ago become an institution of Renfrew. Coming here as a youth from Pembroke to enter the service of the late Martin Russell lumberman, he learned much from that astute personage and put the knowledge into practice. He was not long in Renfrew before promoting a company for the development of power at the Second Chute. Next he began the promotion of joint stock companies. In all these enterprises he had a financial interest. To everything he put his hand success came, and long before his death he was a man of much substance, a manufacturer of goods whose market is as wide as the world. At the time of his death he was head of Renfrew Industries Ltd. which include the Refrigerator Factory on Elizabeth street, the flour mill at the foot of Raglan street, the sash and door factory on the banks of the Bonnechere, and the Electric factory on Lochiel street. He was also president of the Renfrew Reality Co.

For some years he was associated with the Hon. M.J. O’Brien in industrial life, notably in connection with the Renfrew Machinery Co. He was wont to act as chairman at the banquet held in connection with the annual conference of heads of departments and leading agents.

Although always a busy man Mr. Low found time not only for municipal service but for Parliamentary life. First he was a member of Renfrew County Council when members were elected for divisions. He was honored with the Wardenship. He first ran for Parliament in 1908, when he won from the late John Mackay. He was re-elected in 1911 when so many Liberals were defeated on the reciprocity question. He resigned his seat to make way for the Hon. George P. Graham, whom Sir Wilfred desired to have in Parliament. Mr. Low was again elected to Parliament in 1921 and two years later was called to the Cabinet, taking the portfolio of Trade and Commerce. He again sought election in 1925 and in 1930 but was unsuccessful.

The late Mr. Low was born of Methodist parents and adhered to that religion until church union when he allied himself with the United Church of Canada. He was one of the pillars of the church here – a regular attendant and a liberal contributor. No one did more here for the promotion of sport than Mr. Low; he as a friend of hockey, baseball, curling, golf and other forms of athletic endeavour. A score of years ago he was one of those who proposed that Renfrew should have the Stanley cup. Men who served in the war found in Mr. Low one of the warmest friends, one of the best evidences of which was his resolve to erect a soldiers’ memorial on Low Square. His last public appearance on a platform here was at the collegiate institute commencement exercises. Before that it was on Armistice day at Low square.

Much charitable work was done by Thomas Andrew Low of which the public heard nothing. No deserving person was turned empty away. His advice was sought upon many a matter. He was a man charitable both in deed and word.

He held a membership in different clubs, among them the Rideau and Country Clubs of Ottawa and the Ontario and York Clubs of Toronto.

Mr. Low was a good friend of education showing it by attendance at school functions and by the giving of medals. The Hugh Bryan memorial scholarship owed much to him.

He lived a strenuous life. He did much travelling at night and was at his office during the day, always planning and devising to make his busy factories busier, still and to provide as much employment as possible. His home life was of the happiest nature. A genial host, he delighted to meet friends at his home, where many a political campaign was fought over again and again.

During the Great War Mr. Low did much for the welfare of the soldiery; he also was a manufacturer of munitions, sending to the Western Front a huge amount of shells to help in the winning of the war.

Thomas Andrew Low’s boyhood days were spent in Pembroke, where he attended public and high schools. He was born in Quebec on March 12, 1871, a son of Alexander George Low and Margaret Henderson Low, who soon afterward changed their place of abode to Pembroke.

In tribute to their honorary president the Renfrew Curling Club cancelled arrangements for matches until after the funeral, and hockey clubs did likewise. In fact, there was a general cancellation of athletic and social events here. Mayor McLaren issued a proclamation calling for a suspension of business during the time of the funeral on Wednesday afternoon.

THE FUNERAL

There was a general suspension of business in Renfrew on Wednesday afternoon during the funeral of the late Hon. Thomas A. Low. Also the schools were closed. Renfrew people turned out in force to pay a last tribute of respect to the memory of the departed. Residents of the townships roundabout were here in numbers. Points farther away were well represented. Representatives of church and state were among the sojourners. Among representatives of the former was his Lordship Bishop Ryan of Pembroke, long personal friend of Mr. Low’s. From Port Hope came Rev. Gorldon A. Sjeco, last pastor of the Methodist church here, in which church Mr. Low worshipped until the consummation of church union. Former premier MacKenzie King came from Ottawa, Senators George P. Graham and A.C. Hardy came up from Brockville, and Senators H.H. Horsey and Andrew Haydon of Ottawa were here. These were among the many personal friends of Mr. Low’s who attended the obsequies.

After a private service at the Low residence on Stewart street a cortege was formed, headed by the Citizens band playing Chopin’s funeral march. Behind the band were the members of the Canadian Legion, led by their president Mr. A.B.C. Throop. Following were members of the staffs of the different industries which the late Mr. Low conducted. The hearse and mourners came next, and bringing up the rear were hundreds of the general public in cars. The cortege was a very lengthy one.

A halt was made at Trinity St Andrew’s church where services were conducted by Rev. Dr. H. Mick, the pastor, assisted by Rev. G.S. Gervan of Admaston and Rev. G.A. Sisco of Port Hope. Scripture lessons were read by Rev. Mr. Gervan and the pastor. Rev. Mr. Sisco led in invocation and Rev. Dr. Mick also read from the funeral ritual. “Rock of Ages” and “Just As I Am, without “One Plea” were the hymns sung. “Oh, Rest In The Lord” was a composition sung by Miss Ruby Lester very impressively.

A panegyric by Rev. Dr. Mick was of a most feeling and fitting nature. This appears on another page of this issue of The Mercury. At the conclusion of the service the church organist Mr. F.W. Hopson played the Dead March in Saul, with all present standing.

Pall-bearers were Messrs. Charles A. Dewey, W.T. Guest, P. McHugh, (Eganville) E.A. Wright, E.R. Sayles, E.J. Stewart.

Honorary pall-bearers were Rt. Hon. W.L. MacKenzie King, Senators Graham, Hardy, Haydon, and Horsey. Hon Chas. Stewart, T.P. Murray, M.L.A., W.R. Davies (Kingston), Colonel L.T. Martin, Colonel A.T. Thompson, Dr. G.G. McNab, J.K. Rochester, Dr. Murphy, Dr. McCann.

Floral tributes were very numerous. They came from all points. A room at the bereaved home was literally filled with them. Both organizations and individuals sent them.

A large number of people accompanied the remains to Thomsonville cemetery.

Among the scores of telegrams received were messages from Judge Thompson of Whitby, Hon. H.H. Beland of Ottawa, Wm. Regan Victoria B.C., Thos. P. Murray M.P.P. , W.L. Smyth, president Pembroke Kiwanis, Senator Cairine Wilson, Hon Charles McCrea, Toronto, Hon. W.D. Euler, Kitchener, George W. Lee, chairman T.& NO Railway North Bay, Hon. Peter Heenan, Rt. Hon. W.L. MacKenzie King, Rt. Hon. George P. Graham, Col. A.T. Thompson, E.H. Vickers, Regina, Col. Lawrence T. Martin, Toronto, Hon. Charles Murphy, Peter White, Toronto, J .J . Hunter Kincardine, Hon George N. Gordon, Peterborough, Hon Jacques Bureau, Three Rivers Que., Hon Dr. King, Vancouver, Miss Amy Wright New York, W.H. Harris Sherbrooke Que., Hon. N.W. Rowell and Hon. Charles Murdock.

WHEN HON. MR. LOW BECAME A MINISTER
Taking a Portfolio, He Was Re-Elected to Parliament Unopposed

After the late Hon. Thomas A. Low was called to the Cabinet in the King Government at Ottawa in 1923, his re-election became necessary. He was returned unopposed. Nominations was held in the Temperance Hall in Renfrew on September 6th, 1923. Part of Mr. Low’s address on that occasion was as follows:
“I do not recall a nomination so quiet as the one here today. I realize that it was only made possible by the generous acts of the two other parties, the Conservative party and the Progressive party. I was particularly touched by the way in which perhaps almost all the leading Conservatives of the county hastened to assure me that they would do all within their power to prevent any opposition on this occasion. I appreciate that very much, and I hereby publicly thank one and all of the electors, irrespective of party, for the honor they have done me today. I want to say in regard to the Progressive party that when the announcement was made a number of leading Progressive citizens of the county came and assured me that so far as in their power lay, they would do everything they could to prevent opposition to my election. While they called a convention, I felt that the better judgment of these gentlemen would prevail. They felt like myself that the honor was not an honor alone to myself, but to the riding of South Renfrew. And I appreciate very, very much the honor that the people have done me today in allowing me to be elected by acclamation, without the necessity of a campaign. It enables me to get back to the duties and work at Ottawa, and I am fully impressed with the great responsibilities placed upon me. I today look back to 35 years ago when I came to the town of Renfrew as a boy, and during those 35 years I have tried to do what I could for the town and country, and the people themselves have been very kind to me. They have made it possible for me to reach perhaps what, with one exception, is the highest gift within the people of this country. It is true that the Prime Minister occupies a higher position, but the office of that of Cabinet Minister is that next to the Prime Minister, and it is only the people of South Renfrew that have made it possible for me to attain that position.

RENFREW TOWN COUNCIL EXPRESSES SYMPATHY
Council Adopts a Resolution of Condolence and Adjourns Immediately

A regular fortnightly meeting of Renfrew Town Council was scheduled for Tuesday evening, but out of respect for the memory of the late Thomas A. Low the Council adjourned until Thursday evening without doing more than adopting a resolution of condolence to the bereaved family.

The resolution was moved by Councillor Fennessy, seconded by Reeve Moore and adopted unanimously. In the resolution it was set forth that it was with feelings of sadness the Council realized the loss of one of our best townsmen and friends, and the feeling was expressed that Renfrew had suffered a loss that few could realize. It was said that Mr. Low had been most loyal to the best interests of the town and had given wholeheartedly of his time and talents to the advancement and betterment of this his home town. Council expressed to Mrs. Low and son deepest sympathy in their sorrow and shared with them the loss which Renfrew suffers.

Council resolved to attend the funeral in a body. Adjournment until Thursday evening was moved by Mr. Fennessy, seconded by Deputy Reeve Plaunt.

THE LATE MARTIN RUSSELL’S PREDICTION WAS FULFILLED

When the late Hon. Thomas A. Low came to Renfrew as a youth of seventeen years to enter the service of the late Martin Luther Russell, lumberman, Mr. Russell introduced the new-comer to the mill staff with these words:
“l want you people to be kind to him. He is a widow’s son. There is a lot in him, and he will be something some day.”

DR MALONEY’S TRIBUTE

The following is the tribute to the memory of Hon. T.A. Low, from Dr. M.J. Maloney M.P. for South Renfrew:
“In the passing of Mr. Low I have lost a personal friend. The story of his life is an inspiration to the youth of Canada. Starting from the bottom through individual effort he reached a commanding position in the industrial world and an outstanding place in the public life of our country. His unexpected death is a sore blow to the community and a great loss to Canada at the present time when we so badly need men of wide vision and strong business principles.

My deepest sympathy goes to Mrs. Low and family.”

THE LATE WILLIAM LOGAN
Renfrew Mercury February 28, 1913

The improvement in the condition of Mr. William Logan, noted in our last issue, was of short duration. On Friday afternoon he again took a tum for the worse and the end came early on Sunday morning. The funeral took place on Tuesday afternoon with the honors of the Oddfellows order of which he had been for many years a member. Rev. Mr. Horne conducted the service at the house, and then the Oddfellows took charge, some fifty of them being in procession, under the marshalship of Bros. D.W. Budd and A.L. Handford. After the service of commitment to the grave by Rev. Mr. Horne, the Oddfellows service was given by Finley White as Noble Grand and J.H. Walford as chaplain. Besides floral wreaths from the family and private friends, there were like remembrances from Marion Lodge I.0.0.F., and also from the Board of Managers of St Andrew’s Church, of which Mr. Logan had been for some years a member. The pallbearers were his brother, Thomas Logan, his son Grey, his nephews William Dean and Charlie and Mackie Logan, and Thos. A. Low, ex-M.P. (a nephew by marriage).

Mr. Logan was the oldest son of the late William Logan, and was a native of Renfrew. From his boyhood days he had been engaged in the woolen industry; in connection with the various activities here under that family name, and which were founded by his father over 60 years ago. He was a man of quiet and reserved habits, taking little part in public affairs except for a time like his father and brothers in Band affairs, but happy in doing his allotted part in the business immediately at his hands, and liked and honored by those who did come in contact with him. In December 1879 he was married to Miss Margaret Stewart, daughter of the late Alex Stewart, a Horton pioneer, who survives him, along with one son W. Grey of The Bank of Ottawa at Parry Sound. Two daughters, Katie (Mrs. Donald McPhail) who died some four years ago, and Mary, who died in early childhood, preceded him to the grave.

DEATH OF THOMAS LOGAN
RENFREW MERCURY JANUARY 4, 1918

Thomas Logan, son of a pioneer of Renfrew, native of the town, laid down the cares and pleasures of life on Saturday morning and on Monday afternoon was laid to rest on Thomsons’s Hill, where his parents and five brothers and one sister have formerly been borne. It had been known for the past year that Mr. Logan’s health was sadly impaired; and though a journey and rest at Clifton Springs had done him some good, the trouble gradually settled upon him again and for the past week or two it was known that the illness would ere long prove fatal, though the end came somewhat more suddenly than expected. Mr. Logan was the third son of the late William Logan, one of the town’s pioneers and early manufacturers. Away back in the 50’s he established the Logan Woollen Mills down by the riverside. As he grew up to manhood Thomas’ gifts were early indicated and they were a marked ability to get the best results from the machinery of a woolen mill and from the workers therewith. And step by step though set back by fires, the industries grew; and the modest wooden building of limited capacity grew to two large brick factory structures and now have place to the right and left of the north of the “wire bridge”.

For the last few years Mr. Logan’s activities have been devoted to the business of the Renfrew Knitting Co. in the larger and newer of those two manufacturing industries. Aside from the business Mr. Logan in his years of prime took an active part in municipal affairs occupying a seat at the council board in the period when Renfrew and had just donned the gait of a town and was developing waterworks and good roads systems, in both of which he took deep interest. He had a great faith in the Bonnechere river and in the part that was to be played in Renfrew’s development by the waterfall at the foot of Main street whose rushing waters were music in his ears from his earliest days; and the passing years have brought realization of this faith. Mr. Logan was married in 1888 to Miss Ellen MacDonald, daughter of the late Peter MacDonald of Douglas. Mrs. Logan, whose own health has not been the best for some years, survives, along with two sons, Mackie and Charles, who have been well trained to carry on the industry. On sister, Lizzie, also survives. – the last of the generation of the family.

The funeral services at the house on Monday afternoon were conducted by Rev. E.B. Horne and Rev. Dr. Tayler; the services at the grave by Rev. E.B. Horne. The funeral was with Masonic honors, with services at the grave omitted by the brotherhood owing to the severely cold weather. The Masonic services were conducted by Wor. Bro. H. Cox. There were handsome floral memorials – in addition to those from family and friends – from the Town Council and the Masonic Lodge, Canadian Foresters and the employees of the Knitting Mill. The pallbearers were Wm. Dean, Gray Logan, Hugh Livingstone, John Currie (four nephews), Archie McDonald (brother-in-law) and Arthur McNaughton an intimate personal and business friend.

CHARLES LOGAN CALLED BY DEATH
Popular Citizen Died with Shocking Suddenness at Home On Wednesday
Renfrew Mercury May 13th, 1937

A heavy blow to kith and kin and a shock to the community was the death without warning on Wednesday, shortly after the noon hour, of Charles M. Logan at the Logan homestead in the Hincks section of Renfrew. He had just finished dinner and begun to do some gardening when the summons came.

Charles M. Logan was born in Renfrew, a son of Mrs. Logan and the late Thomas Logan. After a training at the public school and collegiate institute he proceeded to learn the woolen craft as a grandson of the founder of that industry in Renfrew. He continued at it until a tempting offer came to him and his brother Mack now in the West, for the sale of the mill. Afterward he went into the brokerage business and was interested in agencies. Coupled with a second education was a natural brightness and Charles M Logan became a force in the community. He was for some years a member of the Town Council, as was his father before him, and held the Mayorality. He liked civic service, and the town benefited from his labors.

In his youth he took an active interest in hockey and baseball, especially the former, and was one of the best hockeyists ever produced in Renfrew.

His wife survives and there is one son, Tom. There are also his mother and the brother in the West, to whom the sympathy of the community and the district goes out in full measure in his sudden and untimely demise. His age was 47 years. Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

LATE CHARLES M LOGAN MOURNED BY COMMUNITY
Funeral on Sunday Afternoon One of the Largest in the History of the Town
Renfrew Mercury May 20, 1937

The funeral of the late Charles McDonald Logan, whose very sudden death occurred on Wednesday of last week, did not take place until Sunday afternoon, the delay having been made owing to the absence his mother, Mrs. Ellen Logan, in Edmonton. She reached home on Saturday after a sojourn of several months among relatives in the West.

Attendance at the funeral was very large, no fewer than 88 cars having been counted in the cortege which formed at the home on Arthur street and proceeded to Thomsonville cemetery. Services were conducted by Rev. Dr. Runnells, assisted by Canon Quartermaine and the Rev. W.M. Campbell, the latter of Castleford. Floral tributes were unusually numerous among contributors being the W.C.T.U. of Renfrew, Arno Mines Ltd. Castleford Women’s Institute, Crow River Mines of Ottawa, Renfrew junior hockey club, Hotel Renfrew, Form 111 of the R.C.I., the Murray Mine Co. of Ottawa the Corporation of the town of Renfrew. In addition, there were many messages of condolence from old friends and business associates. Miss Ruby Lester sang “Beautiful Land”. Honorary pallbearers were; D.W. Stewart, Dr. S.H. Murphy, Robert A. McLaren, Alex Thurston, D.B. McLaren, T.F. Barnet. Active bearers were N.E. Zimmerman, Norman D Budd, C.O. Thacker, Herbert Letang, Harper Cotie and E.A. Grigg.

This the curtain was rung down in the last chapter of a life beginning in Renfrew in 1890, as the eldest son of Thomas Logan and his wife Ellen McDonald. It was a life full of action, a life of varied activities. After passing through the public school and collegiate institute and having his day at hockey and baseball, a shining light at both sports, Charles M. Logan began to play the role of woolen manufacturer in company with his brother Mack. When the brothers sold the business, Charles M. Logan turned his attention to insurance brokerage and mining, was president of one mining company and on the directorate of others. In 1921, he entered municipal life and was in turn Councillor, Deputy-Reeve, Reeve and Mayor. After the Mayorality in 1927, he was returned again as a Councillor, serving in that capacity once more for two years. He had a thorough grasp of civic matters and as a County Councillor rendered the county excellent service at Pembroke.

His wife the former Katherine Farrell survives, with one son Thomas. There are also his mother and a brother Mack the latter in Vancouver.

That the late Charles M Logan was a citizen highly regarded was shown by the very large attendance at his funeral. He was a man of much force of character, honorable and upright in his dealings, one whose memory will long remain green in the town of Renfrew.

His death forms the second break in the ranks. The Renfrew Rivers, the first to go being Corporal William Fishenden who lost his life overseas.

It would be impossible to mention all relatives and friends who came from hear and far Niagara Falls, Toronto, Edmonton, Ottawa, Pembroke, Eganville, Douglas, Kinburn etc.

Robert Blake Theodore Lindsay
Hockey Biography

Lindsay a former professional ice hockey player, forward for the Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Black Hawks of the National Hockey League. Lindsay scored over 800 points in his Hockey Hall of Fame career, won the Art Ross Trophy in 1950, and the Stanley Cup four times. Often referred to as “Terrible Ted”, Lindsay helped to organize the National Hockey League Players’ Association in the late 1950s, an action which led to his trade to Chicago.

Lindsay was born July 29, 1925 in Renfrew, Ontario. His father, Bert Lindsay, had been a professional player himself, playing goaltender for the Renfrew Millionaires, Victoria Aristocrats, and Toronto Arenas. Lindsay played amateur hockey in Kirkland Lake before joining the St. Michael’s Majors in Toronto. In 1944 Lindsay played for the Memorial Cup champion Oshawa Generals.

Lindsay’s performance in the Ontario Hockey Association, Junior A league, now the Ontario Hockey League earned him an invitation to try out with the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League making his big league debut in 1944 at the age of 19. Lindsay played only one game in the American Hockey League, with the Indianapolis Capitals, during the 1944–45 American Hockey League season. Having played amateur in Toronto, yet playing for the Detroit Red Wings, earned him the enmity of Toronto’s owner Conn Smythe with whom he would feud for the length of his career.

Playing left wing with centre Sid Abel and right winger Gordie Howe, on what the media and fans dubbed the “Production line,” Lindsay became one of the National Hockey League’s premier players. Although small in stature compared to most players in the league, Lindsay was a fierce competitor who earned the nickname “Terrible Ted” for his toughness. His rough play caused the National Hockey League to develop penalties for ‘elbowing’ and ‘kneeing’ to discourage hitting between players using the elbows and knees.

In the 1949-50 season, Lindsay won the Art Ross Trophy as the league’s leading scorer with 78 points and his team won the Stanley Cup. Over the next five years, Lindsay helped the Detroit Red Wings win three more championships and appeared with Howe on the cover of a March 1957 Sports Illustrated issue. Lindsay was the first player to lift the Cup and skate around the rink which started an ongoing great tradition.

That same year, Lindsay attended the annual pension plan meeting as the representative of the Detroit Red Wings players, where he found the plans were kept secret. Later that year Lindsay attended a promotion with football and baseball players, he found out conditions in the other sports’ pro leagues were much better. Lindsay was introduced to the lawyers for the players of the other leagues and became convinced, only through an association could the players’ conditions be improved. At a time when teams literally owned their players for their entire careers, the players began demanding such basics as a minimum salary and a properly funded pension plan. While team owners were getting rich with sold out arenas, players were earning a pittance, many needed summer jobs to make a living. Most of these players had no more than a high school education and had been playing hockey as a profession all their working life. Superstars in the 1950s earned less than $25,000 a year and when their playing days were over, they had nothing to fall back on.

Lindsay and star defenceman Doug Harvey of the Montreal Canadiens led a small group in an effort to organize the first National Hockey League Players’ Association. In secret, all of the players at the time were contacted and asked for their support to form an “association”, not a “union”, which was considered going too far. Support was nearly unanimous.

Lindsay worked doggedly for the cause and many fellow players who supported the association were benched or sent to obscurity in the minor leagues. Lindsay and Harvey then became convinced, only a union could win the demands, and set up a schedule to get players’ support on record to be certified as a union. In a defiant gesture, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings were targeted for certification votes. While Montreal’s ownership was not opposing a union, Toronto’s Conn Smythe was adamantly against it. In the United States, the four teams were controlled or under obligations to the Norris syndicate. Despite Smythe’s efforts, the Toronto Maple Leafs players unanimously voted to organize.

Next was the Detroit Red Wings to organize, and the Norrises would fight back. When asked about the formation of the National Hockey League Players Association, Lindsay remarked, “Actually, we don’t have many grievances. We just felt we should have an organization of this kind.”

For his role in the establishing the original Players’ Association, the Lester B. Pearson Award was renamed to the Ted Lindsay Award in his honour. In 1995, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation produced the hockey movie, Net Worth that depicts, Lindsay’s battle to create the National Hockey League Player’s Association.

THE LATE ROBERT LEITCH
Renfrew Mercury July 5, 1912

One of the best known residents of Horton, and one of the tender-hearted of men, was laid to rest on Saturday afternoon with the honors of the Masonic Order, of which he had been for so long a member. For the past few years, Robert Leitch had been noticeably failing in health and a runaway accident some time ago contributed to his breakdown. Having no family, he was cared for at different times in Victoria Hospital, and when, about a month ago he found himself seriously affected, he again sought the kindly and skillful care of the nurses there; and there the end came on Thursday morning,

The body was removed to his home in Horton, where funeral services were held on Saturday afternoon; Rev. A D Cornett and Rev. D. H. Barr conducted the Masonic services both at the house and grave over the remains of one who, with one exception, was the oldest and longest connected with the Renfrew Masonic Lodge. Mr. Leitch having been forty-eight years a Mason; while Peter McLean of Sand Point is nearing the half century as a member of No. 122.

Robert Leitch was the youngest son of the late Archibald Leitch, and was born in Rutherglen, Scotland (a royal borough near Glasgow); and in 1849 when seven years of age came to Canada. The family settled on the farm in Horton, which was ever afterwards Robert’s home, and which by the death of his father four years later, he was left to manage with the mother when at the tender age of 11 years. There were hard times for the pioneers of the district but by industry and care prosperity came to them. Mr. Leitch was not only a Mason but was a loyal Son of Temperance. Possessed of a good voice and kindly way he was often pressed into service as a singer at fraternal gatherings; and his rendering of the old ballads was a pleasure to his friends on into the years when voice and memory would sometimes fail him. His sincerity as a temperance advocate and his likeability as a man led to his being chosen as an independent temperance candidate for the legislature in a contest some twenty-five years ago. He was a member of the Presbyterian church, and in the prime of life one of the most active members of the Curling Club. He was in his 80th year.

MR PATRICK KELLY
RENFREW MERCURY
JANUARY 28, 1887

The funeral of the late Mr. Patrick Kelly (whose death on the afternoon of the 20th inst. was announced in our last issue) took place on Saturday, the 22rd inst. After the coffin, which was followed from his late residence by a general gathering of the residents of the Village, had been borne into the Church of St Francis Xavier, the announcement was made that the corpse would not be removed thence until the afternoon. This was to allow time for deceased’s sister to arrive from Toronto. High Mass was in the meantime celebrated by Rev. P. Rougier. In the afternoon, there was another large assemblage of residents, which was swelled by the attendance of many friends from the surrounding country; so that for the second time, within a week, a very long funeral procession of sleighs was seen on Main street. The pall bearers were Messrs. J.J. Devine, W. O’Connor, M. Fitzmaurice, C. Enright, T. Leacy, and M. Devine.

Deceased was a native of Ireland, from the vicinity of Dublin. For some time after his arrival in Canada, he was engaged at the Conroy lumbering establishment in Aylmer, on the Ottawa River. Afterwards he was in charge of their place at Bonnechere Point. Then he removed to Renfrew some five-and twenty years ago; being at first engaged in clerking and storekeeping; but for many years past in the hotel business, at the stand called the “British Lion”, but more generally known as “Kelly’s hotel”. (Considerable improvements of this property have only recently been completed.)

The deceased liked to take a share in public affairs, and when personally interested, to make himself seen and heard at public meetings; but his chief inclination seemed to be in the direction of politics and as the local guide and leader of the Conservative party. Whatever he undertook was done with all the ardour of the Irish character. Anyone who differed from or opposed his views at such times might be sure to get his opinion, not infrequently in vigorously denunciatory terms. But when the occasion was past, and his mind had been eased by the freedom with which he had expressed his sentiments, he would before long again become quite friendly and sociable with his late opponent. He was also ready to help those who, through misfortune, needed assistance; and through his business connection had a very wide circle of friends. He leaves a widow, but no children, to mourn his loss. He died at the age of 58 years.

WILLIAM JAMIESON ESQ.
ANOTHER SETTLER GONE
Renfrew Mercury September 12 1884

William Jamieson Esq. J.P. died at his residence in Horton, on Monday 8th inst. After having been confined to his bed by paralysis for the last three or four years. The deceased was born at Stonehouse near Glasgow Scotland, 67 years ago, and emigrated to Canada when about 17 years of age. He first worked in the Township of Drummond, and then spent some time in Utica and Rochester. A year or two afterwards he came to Horton on a visit to the late David Barr and the late John Stewart, who had come to Canada in the same ship with him. He remained in Horton – working for a time with John and Alex Martin, and then purchasing the farm now owned by Mr. Robert Leitch. This he sold to the late Archibald Leitch, and purchased the property owned by his son John A. on which he lived for the remainder of his life. He married a daughter of the late Henry Airth Sr. by whom he had a numerous family. For many years Mr. Jamieson took an active part in local public affairs, as councilor and Reeve. But latterly, he gradually withdrew from them, and participated actively only as Treasurer of the Township; as a member of the Agricultural Society and as President of the South Renfrew Association.

Up till the time of his illness which confined him to bed, he frequently called upon to act as Magistrate and in that capacity was perhaps generally known. As one of the early settlers in the County he was widely connected and his funeral which took place on Tuesday afternoon was probably the most numerously attended that has ever taken place in this section.

Luc Imbleau
An Old Resident Borne to Rest
Renfrew Mercury December 20, 1895

On Monday morning, there was borne to the last resting place in the Roman Catholic Cemetery here, all that was mortal of Luc Imbleau, for over a quarter of a century an industrious and respected resident of Renfrew. The deceased was born in the neighborhood of Three Rivers some 73 years ago; and learnt the trade of a moulder at a well-known Forge St. Maurice.

Fifty-three years ago he was married to Harrietta Gerzon, by whom he had nine children – of whom only four survive him. Some thirty years ago, he removed to Renfrew; for fifteen years carrying on business in the stone axe factory building of the late S. Francis, by the river side. Then he located on the rise of the hill on Main street, on the south side of the Bonnechere; and here, with the assistance of his industrious sons, Merril and Henry, he developed a foundry and moulding business which has steadily increased in volume.

The deceased took no part in public affairs, and outside of business his patriarchal form was best known as he regularly wended his way to the services of the church of which he was a most faithful member. His illness – a form of stomach trouble – developed only this summer, up to which time he had enjoyed good health. He was confined to the house for about a month before his death. One of the R.C. church societies and a large number of citizens turned out to pay their last respects to one who in life had been an exemplary citizen.

DR. ARTHUR R. HYNES DIED VERY SUDDENLY
Prominent Citizen Died On Operating Table in Renfrew Hospital
Renfrew Mercury 1938

The community received another shock on Wednesday forenoon, a continuation of several in recent months, when announcement was made of the death of Dr. Arthur R. Hynes. He entered the hospital to undergo a major operation. For some time he had known that he required surgical treatment to correct an internal disorder, and he resolved that when otherwise in good physical condition he would take the step. But the shock was too great for the system.

Dr. Hynes was apparently a very rugged man. He had gone through the Great War as a member of the dental corps. He was fond of golfing at the time of his demise holding the presidency of the Renfrew Golf Club. He was enthusiastic both as a member of the Masonic and I.O.O.F. orders. He was a member of the board of managers of Renfrew United Church. For some time he held membership on the Board of Education. Membership in the local branch of the Canadian Legion was also his. He had just allied himself with the Rotary Club.

After graduation as a dentist Dr. Hynes practiced for some time in Western Ontario; then returning to his home town, where for several years he was to be found daily in his office, with a fondness for arriving there at an early hour in the morning. He built up a heavy practice. His parents were the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Hynes. To his sisters the Misses Eva and Gertrude Hynes deepest sympathy of the town and surrounding country goes out to them. Funeral services are to be conducted at the home on Friday afternoon following another in Trinity St Andrew’s United Church at 2 o’clock.

MANY ATTENDED FUNERAL OF LATE DR. A.R. HYNES
Cortege Formed at House Thence to United Church and Thomsonville Cemetery
Renfrew Mercury 1938

At the funeral of the late Dr. Arthur R. Hynes on Friday afternoon last high tribute was paid to his memory by Rev. J. Passmore Braithwaite, acting pastor of Trinity St Andrew’s United Church, and by Rev. Canon Quartermaine, who also assisted in the service. This was at the church service which followed a private one at the family home.

“We are met here today, “said Rev. Mr. Braithwaite, “under a common sense of loss, and not a few of you with a deep sense of personal bereavement.” He did not, he said, propose to say much; least of all as a comparative stranger would he presume to make any extensive reference to one whom all had thought of with affection. But he would be regarded in some measure failing in his duty if not saying a few words, first as to the suddenness of his loss, Dr. Hynes had been present at worship on the last Sunday evening and had been on the golf links on Tuesday; thus it was almost impossible to realize he was gone. On Tuesday evening he entered the hospital; early Wednesday morning he died. Mr. Braithwaite dwelt upon the lessons taught by the suddenness of the death and made mention of the many kind words he had heard in town concerning his merits. Canon Quartermaine spoke as one who had long known Dr. Hynes, and extolled his merits.

Members of the Renfrew Masonic Lodge were present in a body, as were also members of the local branch of the Canadian Legion, led by Captain Harry T. Dean. Captain W.M. McAndrew headed the tiring party of the Lanark and Renfrew Scottish, who with arms reversed marched in the cortege and tired three volleys over the grave at Thomsonville Cemetery. Pipe Major Pierce sound the customary Scottish lament, while Comrade Leonard White sounded the reveillie and “Last Post”, leading in Masonic rites were Messrs. George Munro, John Conley, D.E. Stone and Canon Quartermaine. Bearers were Messrs. A.W. Baird, J.R. Easton, E.R. Sayles, D.W. Stewart, E.J. Stewart, K.S. Russell. Floral tributes were numerous. Attendance at the funeral was large, made up not only of Renfrew people but of many from a distance.

The Blue Lodge and the Chapter of the A.F.&A.M. sent wreaths as did also the I.O.O.F. Renfrew County Dental Society, Board of Education, the Golf Club directors of Golf Club, employees of Golf Club, Pembroke Golf Club, Eastern Ontario Dental Association, Renfrew Collegiate and Vocational School, principal and staff, Dominion Dental Co., caddies of Renfrew Golf Club, Renfrew branch of Canadian Legion.

MEDAL AWARDED

Must older Renfrew residents know Dr. H.L. (Herb) Handford as the kind, gentle and highly professional family doctor that he was for many years, prior to his illness and subsequent retirement from practice some years ago.

Many younger Renfrew residents may not know he won the Military Cross for distinguished service during World War 2.

Herb Handford was born October 16, 1913, the second son of Mr. and Mrs. A.L. (Gus) Handford. He had an older brother Edward and a sister Lillian.

Alter graduating from RCI he entered Queen’s University in the fall of 1934 and graduated with a degree in Medicine in 1940. He took his internship training at Saratoga Springs and did post graduate work at London University.

Dr. Handford enlisted with the Canadian Army Medical Corps on June 4, 1940 and in 1942 he was sent from Canada to England to act as Liaison Officer for the 3rd Field Ambulance Corps. He served with the British Army in North Africa with the 153rd Field Ambulance for four months.

From North Africa, Major Handford returned to England and prepared the 3rd Field Ambulance Corps for their landing in Normandy, France on D-Day, June 6, 1945. Major Handford was part of the second medical team to land with the invasion force, their objective was Calais.

It was for this D-Day and similar war services and that Major Handford was later presented with the Military Cross. His citation reads as follows:
“This officer landed on D-Day in charge of a Field Ambulance Company in support of the 9th Canadian Infantry Brigade. For the succeeding 72 hours he arranged evacuation from the Brigade Group, carrying on under intense fire.

On 18 July 1944, while in charge of A Company of a Field Ambulance, on his own initiative he organized a method of evacuation for casualties across a river when the normal means was impossible. This he did while the area was under aerial bombardment without regard for his own safety. By his action he saved many lives and contributed greatly to the efficiency of the Brigade by quickly clearing casualties. In this way he made a definite contribution to the success of the operation.

The Company commanded by Major Handford was again subjected to intense fire from artillery and bombing at Cormelles during the period of 23 to 25 July 1944 when this officer, by his coolness and resourcefulness, maintained a most efficient casualty clearing post which continued to operate and quickly evacuated casualties from the danger area.”

After winning one of the highest honours given for military service, Major Handford was honorably discharged from the Canadian Army on July 5, 1945 and returned to Canada where he interned at the Montreal General Hospital.

He married the former Margaret Lockwood of Renfrew on January 16, 1945 and returned to Renfrew to set up practice with his brother on September 6, 1946.

Dr. and Mrs. Handford have three children, Kathryn, Herb Jr, Grace and grandchildren.

Information provided by Miss Lillian Handford and from Dr. Handford’s niece, Dianne Lockwood, from research she completed for a school biography project.

The Renfrew Mercury, Renfrew, Ontario — Nov 11, 1987

Renfrew’s ‘Dr. Ed’ dies at 84

One of this town’s most prominent citizens, Dr. Edward Handford, affectionately known as Dr. Ed, died at the age of 54.

Handford opened his medical practice in 1933 and saw patients until four weeks ago, when he was hospitalized. He was best known for his compassion and sense of humour, says his sister Lillian Handford. “When you were sick you really had a friend in Dr. Ed. Someone to look after you, to come in the middle of the night if you needed him.” Dr. Handford was a plain, old-fashioned doctor who liked people, she said. “He always had time for you.”

When Handford began his practice in the horse-and-buggy era, he would often spend the night at area farmhouses, delivering babies. He would travel long distances to see patients any time of day or night.

“l cannot begin to describe his contribution to Renfrew,” says Russ Mackenzie, Renfrew Victoria Hospital’s administrator. Mackenzie said Handford was instrumental in getting provincial accreditation for Renfrew Victoria Hospital. “He had a great sincerity of interest and dedication not only to his patients but to the practice of medicine in general.” Mackenzie said the hospital and town will he looking for a way to commemorate Dr. Ed’s contribution to the community.

He is survived by his wife Pat, children Edward Jr., Robert, James and Eric, nine grandchildren, his sister Lillian and brother Dr. Hubert Handford.

FUNERAL SERVICE FOR THOMAS W. GROVES
Renfrew Mercury
January 14, 1960

Thomas William Groves of 459 Stewart St. N. Renfrew, passed away on January 8, 1960 after an illness of about one year. The late Mr. Groves was born at Douglas, a son of William Groves and Elizabeth James. He was a member of St Paul’s Anglican Church. Survivors include, Mrs. John Mackay and Miss Eleanor Groves both of Renfrew, one nephew John Moran of Renfrew and two nieces Mrs. Leslie Carswell of Ottawa and Miss Kathryn Moran of Montreal.

The body rested at McPhail and Perkins Funeral Home, where service was conducted Monday January 11th at 3 p.m. by Rev. J.L. Bradley. Interment was in Thomsonville Cemetery. Pallbearers were, Ernie Eady, Ray Elliott, Lorne McGregor, J.W. Briscoe, William Maas and Jack Stewart.

HARRY GRACE
From the Renfrew Mercury
15 May 1925

Mr. Harry Grace of Renfrew, with home at the Second Chute of the Bonnechere has lived during the past eleven years not far from the place of his birth, which was Almonte. There he grew up. He attended the public and high schools of that town being then under the principalship of the late Peter Campbell McGregor, B.A. LLD., one of the most popular and successful school principals of his day. Mr. Grace holds his memory in high regard. Leaving school Mr. Grace went to the neighboring town of Carleton Place, taking a position with the Caldwells, who were then manufacturing sawn lumber on a large scale on that section of the Mississippi River. He learned piling and shipping under the late John Galvin; also had Thomas McCallum as a coach.

From Carleton Place Mr. Grace returned to Almonte, where for five years he did business as a hotel-keeper. From Almonte, he went to Killaloe as Mine Host at the Beresford House. He was for thirteen years in “the upper country”. There, as in Almonte and Pakenham, he built up a good reputation as a keeper of a house of public entertainment. While at Killaloe Mr. Grace served for some time as a school trustee.

It was in the fall of 1914, just as the Great War was getting well under way, that Mr. Grace came to Renfrew. He came hither to go into the furniture and undertaking business not long after the death of the late Wm. O’Connor. A genial, approachable man, he soon had a wide circle of friends and it was but a short while until he held membership in the Town Council. For three years he was a member of the civic legislature, holding in one of those years the deputy-reeve which carried with it a seat in the County Council. In his last year at the board Mr. Grace was chairman of the finance committee. Another committee chairmanship which he held was that of the fuel committee, a committee which he emergencies of the Great War rendered necessary. One matter to which Mr. Grace “points with pride” during his service to the public as a member of the Town Council was his strenuous opposition to the purchase of a portion of the Leach property on the banks of the Bonnechere for park purposes. He feels that the forces of opposition organized by him led to the killing of the project which he regarded as a poor one in different ways for Renfrew.

Outstanding among Mr. Grace’s hobbies today are fishing and hunting. With rifle in hand he likes to go after deer and he has a shotgun for partridges. These are less strenuous hobbies than those which were his in his more youthful days when he took an active interest in lacrosse and football, baseball and cricket. He was fond, too, of running, and there is an unconfirmed statement that once upon a time he almost lost a footrace when near the line a young lady exclaimed,” My gracious see him run.”

For the building up of a bigger and better Renfrew Mr. Grace would curtail the amount of early closing prevailing here. Shops close too many nights a week, he thinks. Closing of shops five nights per week tends to drive the farmers’ trade to the smaller places roundabout, he says; adding that an over-plus of early closing here has built up business for several of the smaller places. Also it sends to Arnprior trade which would otherwise come to Renfrew. At the same time it plays into the hands of departmental stores. With good roads running nearly everywhere and with the horseless carriage well-nigh universal, Mr. Grace sees business go on five nights of the week from points near Renfrew to points several miles away.

John F. Gibbons
From the Renfrew Mercury
13 March 1925

One of the leading men of the Renfrew district is Mr. John F. Gibbons of the Northcote section of Admaston township, whose farm has been said to possess all the conveniences of city life except the crowd and the streetcars. On a fine farm which his father hewed out of “the forest primeval.” Mr. Gibbons and family live a life of comfort – a life which Mr. Gibbons holds open to all agriculturists, though maintaining that the rewards from agriculture are not what they ought to be, and in late years he agitated for better opportunities for the farmer through U.F.O. channels. With the U.F.O. organization he is still connected in an executive capacity.

Mr. Gibbons was born at Northcote and has always lived there. Up until fifteen years ago his cattle, in which he specializes, were of the Shorthorn Durham variety, since then he has pinned his faith to Holsteins, and does so still despite his Scottish ancestry and the existence of the Dairy Standards Act. He generally has from 30 to 50 head on hand, of varying ages and sells to persons near and far, though as a rule to Renfrew county men. He buys herd sires occasionally. Not only does he subject his cattle to the tuberculin test, until today reactors are not to be found, but he has put four cows into a Record of Performance test and won prizes with three.

One of the dairy farmers of Renfrew county is Mr. Gibbons, who is a director of the Eastern Ontario Dairymen’s Association and a member of the executive. He has been called to conference three times by the Ontario Government; the Dominion Department of Agriculture has also included him among leading farmers summoned to confer over matters relating to husbandry.

Mr. Gibbons’ father use to lament that there was no creek running through his farm to reduce the amount of water necessary to be pumped. Today on the same farm no pumping is done by hand; machinery does it all, the machinery being run by a gasoline engine installed fourteen years ago and once replaced, which engine not only drives the pumps but pulls roots and runs the milking machine.

A hobby of Mr. Gibbons is to try to have everything as convenient on the farm as possible. He sees no reason why tillers of the soil should not have comforts and conveniences as well as the city people have and he holds that it is possible. His horses number only five but he has tractor, plows and other labor saving machinery. And he has the conveniences of a bush lot, obviating the necessity of buying coal or wood to heat his home.

It is said that a farm whose outbuildings are excellent and whose residence is very ordinary is a farm where the farmer is captain and his wife Lieutenant; also that a farm where the residence is superior and the outbuildings inferior is a farm proclaiming the rule of a woman. On the Gibbons farm there is no such one-sidedness; the home is a substantial structure of excellent appointments, with acetylene lights and tap-water among the accommodations. Both house and barns are of high standard.

Mr. Gibbons is a man of pleasing personality who impresses all who meet him as being one who aims for progress in every laudable direction. Taking the public platform, he expresses himself readily and clearly, and gives evidence of a careful reading of literature bearing upon his life work. He has not been too deeply engrossed in his own affairs to lack the time for public service in different directions. For four years he served as a Township Councillor, entering one contest and getting three acclamations. He is today a member of the directorate of the South Renfrew Agricultural Society.

THE LATE MICHAEL FRENCH
Renfrew Mercury
October 3, 1903

Another of the earliest residents of Renfrew was laid to rest this week. After a gradual decline of physical strength extended over some years and which for the last six months has confined him to his room, Michael French passed away on Sunday, September 28th. He was a mere child when his father, Francis French, emigrated from County Mayo, Ireland, in 1845.

After a short stay in Bytown, the family went on to Perth, where they remained a year, and then on to Lanark village, where they remained until 1858. The late Rev. Dr. Campbell in his portion of the Story of Renfrew relates that in those days Mr. French’s was the only Roman Catholic family in the place, but he formed many enduring friendships with his Scotch neighbors amongst whom he was held in “high esteem for his honorable dealing and genial bearing. He often told with delight in his later days how they always respected his religious convictions going so far as to provide him with means of a conveyance rather than see him walk the twelve long miles over bad roads to Perth to attend the Sunday services.” And it may be added, the same warm friendships with their Protestant neighbors have continued with their descendants.

Removing to Renfrew County in 1858 the family settled on a farm beyond the Pinnacle, near to the Devines. There Francis French, Sr., with his sons Thomas and Michael cleared the land; the other son Francis becoming a resident of the then forming village. The father retired from the farm in 1870, and Michael continued to work it till 1874. Then the growth of the place, after the arrival of the railway, attracted Michael from the farm also.

For some years he carried on a grocery. Later, finding indoors work irksome, he was for eighteen years a representative of the Noxon Bros. and other agricultural implement makers. Since his retirement he has lived with his son John. F. He was a member of the village council in 1884; 1888 and 1889, and was a Separate School trustee for several years. He was also a member of the Catholic Mutual Benevolent Association, and it was with the honors of that society that he was buried.

At the church of St. Francis Xavier, mass was celebrated by Rt. Rev. Bishop Ryan, assisted by Rev. Fathers Frank French of Brudenell and Isaiah French of Killaloe, (nephews of the deceased) and John Ryan of Mt. St. Patrick. Rev. Father Dowdall of Eganville was also in the sanctuary. The pallbearers were; Messrs. Martin McDonell, John Devine, John Brady, A. Ritza, John Sullivan and M. Imbleau.

Mrs. French died some years ago, and there survive five sons and one daughter. John F. of Renfrew, Thomas and James in the west; Andrew of Pembroke and Mac of Winnipeg; and Miss Mary of Renfrew. Two brothers also survive – Francis for some time past confined to the hospital in Pembroke and John of Sturgeon Falls, who also has been in a hospital at St Michael’s, Toronto – undergoing an operation and was unable to be present at his brother’s funeral. Andrew and Mac were able to get to Renfrew in time for the funeral. Mr. French was 70 years of age.

J.M. FERGUSON
From the Renfrew Mercury
10 July 1925

Mr. J.M. Ferguson, unlike the majority of men appearing in The Mercury during the past six months as “Men of Affairs” has not served the public as a member of the Town Council, or as a school trustee, neither has he been an Agricultural Society worker, nor a Board of Health enthusiast. His home, his church and his store have been his main concerns. He has kept out of public service in the channels mentioned, not through lack of public spirit, but because feeling that there are candidates aplenty for public office and that a lack of men at the different boards is seldom or never known.

The opening up of his new place of business a few days ago marks a new era in a career which beginning in the fall of 1903, has been one of constant advancements. Though his store is the only one of its kind in town, and the first of its kind in Eastern Ontario, he has not been without competition, that competition coming from business places carrying various kinds of dry goods. A factor contributing to the success of the Ferguson establishment is the “store news” which it every week has before the public. This is one of different factors, but far from being the least important, Mr. Ferguson has among his treasures a copy of his first advertisement and which appeared in “The Mercury” simultaneously with the opening of “The Ladies Emporium.”

J.M. Ferguson was born in the Township of Admaston and received his primary education in No. 2 school of the municipality. He then spent a year in Renfrew Collegiate Institute, his studies there including the commercial course. Having had from childhood a desire for mercantile life, he took a position in a general store in Renfrew, remaining there eleven years commencing as delivery boy and ending as head clerk. At the end of that period though receiving as much in the way of salary as any other clerk in town at the time, he resolved to start into business on his own account. His capital amounted to only $500, but he had plenty of optimism, and found that wholesale houses had confidence in him through the favorable report of those house’s representatives. He bought a $1,000 stock of ladies ready to wear goods and put in $500 worth of store fixtures, and success was his from the start; for up to the present time, 22 Junes later, he has never ever failed to take his discounts where discounts were allowed. The business was built on confidence, also in telling the truth in advertisements. While patronage did not grow in leaps and bounds, it increased steadily and securely.

For the first five years Mr. Ferguson occupied the smaller store in the Handford block. Business growing too large to be taken care of properly there, he moved into the Fraser block which he carried for over sixteen years up to a week or so ago, when he fitted up and moved into the spacious store where he now meets the public. Mr. Ferguson’s ambition having always been to own the store in which he did business, he in 1919 purchased from Mr. Alex Fraser the store he occupied and the one adjoining. He put a new front on his own designing in the store which he has just left, he having a hobby for that sort of thing. He also designed his present store front and the store’s interior.

In the matter of recreation Mr. Ferguson is fond of fishing and motoring. Some of his motor trips carry him hundreds of miles away. At home in the summer season he takes pride in a well-kept lawn and something nice in flowers.

For a bigger and better Renfrew Mr. Ferguson thinks merchants and other business men here should harmonize more, also get together often seeking a way to lighten each other’s difficulties; for after all, though opposing each other in business each is his brother’s keeper and in unity there is strength. Such a spirit prevailing would, he feels assured make for a busier and better town.

DEATH OF W.N. FAICHNEY
RENFREW MERCURY
MARCH 14, 1923

The death of one who was at once one of Renfrew’s oldest citizens and oldest men occurred on Friday afternoon, when Mr. W.N. Faichney suddenly breathed his last. Lately his friends had noticed that he had been looking very feeble; but still he had not made any particular complaint. On Friday morning last he had had, as noted elsewhere a pleasant renewal of acquaintance with Mr. Richard Dickson. Then he ate a hearty dinner, and afterwards strolled outdoors. He was gone but a short time, then he returned indoors, and with the remark that he thought his end was near, lay down on the sofa. Dr. Connolly and his friend, Mr. Wm. Mills, were both hurriedly summoned, but before they arrived he had breathed his last. The deceased, as noted, was one of the oldest citizens and while of late years he had lived a peacefully retired life, as a younger man had borne his share of the local activities. He was born at Perth, Ont., the family having come from Perthshire, Scotland. In 1844 he came to the country village which was afterwards to become Renfrew, and in partnership with the late Archibald Thompson, started the first blacksmithing business here, in a stand about where Dean’s store now stands. Later on, as the town and district developed he branched out into storekeeping, lumbering and railway contracting. He also took part in municipal affairs; was Reeve in 1872; and for many years afterwards had charge of corporation work. He was a member of the Masonic and Orange Orders for some 60 years. He was one of those who contributed in the building of the first Presbyterian church here, and it was therefore fitting that his funeral on Monday afternoon should be from the church of that denomination – the first funeral in the new church, to the opening of which, as a faithful attendant he had been looking forward with pleasant anticipation.

In 1860, he was married to Sarah McTavish, who, with two daughters – Mrs. C.G. Hurdman, of Eagle Creek, Saskatoon and Miss Jessie at home – survives to mourn his demise. Two sons had also been born; but the parents had the grief of losing both by drowning; one when the father had the contract for building one of the early bridges over the Bonnechere, and the lad was playing about him, and the other some years afterward, when playing at Smith’s Creek.

The funeral on Monday was with Masonic honors. There was service at the Presbyterian church in which Rev. Bros. Hay, Dr. Campbell and Jamieson took part; Mr. Hay preaching the sermon. At the grave there was also prayer by Mr. Hay, and then the Masonic Service by R.W. Bros. W.M. Dickson and D. Barr Sr.

THE LATE W.R. EADY
Renfrew Mercury
April 12, 1926

The late Robert Walker Eady of Renfrew was a man who had a legion of friends and few or no enemies. He was one of the most big-hearted of men, always doing something for others and never looking for anything except friendship in return. Anybody in trouble and going to him could always count upon a sympathetic hearing, together with any help which was in his power to give. Both the deserving and the undeserving have been aided by him, not only morally but materially, the unworthy of course getting counsel along with assistance. In has capability as police magistrate he was always lenient with first offenders, lenient also with those who he believed were not criminals at heart; but for the callous and depraved he had little sympathy, bearing in this respect a close resemblance to his father, the late George Eady, who for many years served as police magistrate in Renfrew after having long officiated as a justice of the peace.

Robert Walker Eady had a judicial mind. He could weigh evidence well. Had he been a lawyer he would have probably shone as such. He was not of those who have their minds made up before the taking of evidence, nor did prejudice of any kind sway his judgment. The O.T.A. he did not regard as the last and best word in the way of temperance legislation, nor was he of those who would bring back conditions prevailing in Ontario before 1916; in his judgment a middle course was preferable; therefore, he sided in his private views, neither with what one section of the population terms “the fanatics”, nor with what; another body of the people calls “the wets” in rendering judgment and passing sentence it seemed always to be his desire that if error should occur it should be on the side of leniency. He made a careful study of laws with which he had to do, and it is not on record that any of his judgments have been appealed or upset. His term of office as police magistrate in Renfrew was short but was all to his credit.

Born in Renfrew, a member of one of the town’s oldest families, the late Mr. Eady spent nearly all his days here, and when not here his home was never anywhere else. His very sudden and somewhat untimely end will occasion deep regret not only in Renfrew, but in the country roundabout, and there will be sorrow felt by a large number of people scattered throughout the continent who once made Renfrew their home.

It seems hard to believe that one who but the other day was going in and out among the people of Renfrew, with a smile for all and a frown for none, a joke for friends and a nod for acquaintances in now gone and when that feeling prevails with friends what must be the feelings in the mind of his wife, his sisters, his nephews and his nieces, his cousins and other connections. To them the sympathies of the community will go out in widest measure as they mourn for one who was always happy in his family relationships, a good citizen and an upright man.

OBITUARY ROBERT WALKER EADY
Renfrew Mercury
April 2nd, 1926

A minute or two before the noon hour on Monday Robert Walker Eady, one of Renfrew’s native sons fell asleep in death. Expressions of regret were heard on all sides; there were also exclamations of astonishment, because many had not known that he was ill. His indisposition was of but a few days’ duration. It started with a cold and complications developed. Except for an attack of sickness a few months ago and the bullet wound he sustained as a preventive officer in New Ontario a number of years since, Mr. Eady had always enjoyed good health. He had a rugged constitution, was fond of outdoor life, and possessed one of the most cheerful of temperaments. After leaving school Robert Walker Eady took a clerkship in one of the town stores, later he opened a shoe store, and after disposing of that spent much of his time at Barryvale. He succeeded the late Matthew Devine as police magistrate in Renfrew. Good service was rendered by him to the community as a member of the committee having to do with Thomsonville cemetery. For several years before becoming police magistrate he was a justice of the peace; he also did conveyancing, and as a man of leisure residing at his summer home Barryvale helped many people in business matters. His advice was sought upon many questions and he enjoyed the confidence of all who knew him. And none knew him but to have a high regard for him. His wife and an adopted daughter survive. A daughter predeceased him several years ago.

Sisters are Mrs. Albert Bowden, Mrs. R.D. Scott, and Miss Belle Eady. Mr Eady’s father, the late George Eady Jr., was for many years one of Renfrew’s best known citizens. The funeral took place on Wednesday afternoon from the home on Plaunt street to Thomsonville Cemetery. Attendance at the funeral on Wednesday afternoon was large. Members of the Masonic Order attended in a body, among them being members of lodges in other towns, while among the general public were citizens of different communities in the district. Pall-bearers were Richard Miller, W.A. Mackay, Edward Scott, Cowan Eady, Herbert Smart, and Dr. McKinnon. Services were conducted by Rev. Mr. McCullough of Pembroke and Rev. Canon Quartermaine of Renfrew.

THE DEATH AND BURIAL OF MR GEORGE EADY JR.
Renfrew Mercury
June 21, 1912

On Sunday afternoon, in a bright few hours, between the clouds, there gathered and marched on the main street of Renfrew, the largest concourse ever assembled here to pay their last respects to a fellow-citizen George Eady Jr., had dwelt in this district practically all of his 72 years; for close on to a full half century resident within, the borders of what is now the town itself; and for all of that time one of Renfrew’s most useful citizens; touching the social interests of the place perhaps more than any other single individual. He was a native of the neighbouring Township of Horton, from which in 1858 the village of Renfrew was framed; son of that Robert Eady who came to this district from Huntley and Goulbourn in 1837 with William Burwell, and who in the following year was joined by his father, Robert Eady Sr., an old soldier, and his other sons George, John, Thomas, Richard, William and James. Of the life of that George Eady who was laid to rest on Sunday last we cannot do better than reproduce the picture sympathetically drawn by the late Rev. Dr. Campbell in his portion of The Mercury’s “Story of Renfrew”.

Renfrew has no better known or more thoroughly respected citizen than George Eady Jr., whose early life was spent on the old farm in the township of Horton where, as has already been recited, his parents settled about 1837. As George grew up, he took his share in farm work; but, at the same time eagerly seized every opportunity of securing a useful education. Thus, when he was about fifteen, he went to Burnstown as a clerk with Douglas, then a well-known trader, in whose employ he remained seven years. Going then to Quebec for two years, he came to Renfrew in 1864 to take a partnership with his brother William, who had shortly before begun business in premises on the present site of Stevenson’s furniture store. There was no early closing then, but George evidently found time for certain evening strolls, as he brought them to a climax, with which the passing years have made him ever better satisfied by marrying in 1866 a daughter of James Stewart, one of the Second Line of Horton pioneers. That he gained favor in other directions as well is shown in this, that in 1867 he was appointed to the position of Clerk of the Township of Horton, which office he still holds. The partnership business was sold in 1869, at which date he purchased the site of his present holdings from John Bums, continuing, also, in business alone, and for some years, running a photographic gallery in connection with the move, gradually became more and more immersed in the work of the various offices which where thrust upon him as a trusted and capable man. In 1872, he was appointed Division Court Clerk, Treasurer of the village and secretary-treasurer of the School Board. Later, he was appointed a magistrate and, as, about that time we had not many legal lights, he developed into a Conveyancer, was made a Commissioner in B.R. and gradually wrought into an extensive office business with the result that he closed down the other businesses mentioned, since which time he has been perhaps the most hard wrought office man in town.

In 1904, he was appointed Police Magistrate, in which capacity he dispenses even-handed justice, tempered with mercy and guided by strong common sense, to the great satisfaction of our peace-loving citizens. Life tenure, is that by which he holds all his offices, so thoroughly is he trusted and so faithful is the service he renders. His friends sometimes point out to him, was his two faults, that he is too obliging and too generously hospitable, but he only laughs at them.

Amidst all the pressure of wearing work, there are certain places at which he seldom fails to put in an appearance – at St Andrew’s Church and at the head of the family pew there, generally at both services on Sunday; at the Division of Sons of Temperance, on Thursday evening, and at the Loyal Orange Lodge, especially the County Lodge of which he has been several times Master and Secretary for 40 years. Fresh and vigorous yet, he exercises himself in his fine garden on Thomson Hill and, as often as he can make it convenient, runs out on hunting and fishing or camping excursions for a few days. Thus he has all appearance of seeing many years yet – his parents were long livers – and all his friends hope that will be the case for him.

The foregoing was written in 1907, and at that time it did seem that Mr. Eady was so well preserved that there were indeed many years of usefulness yet before him. But early this spring there were indications that he was not well. Yet one who has during a long lifetime hardly known an ailment or needed a doctor’s care is both to admit illness or to consult a physician, and so it came that he was seriously affected with Bright’s disease before he or any of his family or friends realized the gravity of his condition. On Victoria Day, following, his wented custom, he went out to his summer cottage at Calabogie, and getting his feet wet returned home admittedly ill. The following Sunday afternoon instead of his usual walk in his garden and the cemetery on Thomson’s Hill he drove out. Next day he became seriously ill, and from that time to the end, early on Friday morning, June 14th, suffered a great deal of pain except when alleviated by opiates; though despite his years, his frame might well have been envied by a younger man.

Following an illness of two or three weeks known to be serious, his demise can hardly be said to have come with a shock; but it did bring a deep sense of loss, a feeling that the community had lost one of its best citizens, one who had “lived uprightly, loved mercy and walked humbly with his God”, and to the wide extent that opportunity had given him had brought kindness and brightness to the lives, of those among whom he had so long sojourned. There seemed little more than one way in which the general regard for the deceased could be expressed – and that was in floral tributes. And so it was that there was a floral display about the casket of this kindly, unostentatious man such as has never been seen here. The Town Council, the Board of Education, the Public Cemetery Committee, the County Orange Lodge, the local Orange Lodges (1384 Renfrew and 15, Horton) the Sons of Temperance, the Chosen Friends, the Corporation of Horton, and the lawyers of town were all represented in this way, besides a large number of private friends.

The funeral service was held on Sunday afternoon, and was, as was to be expected, very largely attended. Those participating in the service at the house were Rev. Mr. Horne, who was the clergyman of the day at St Andrew’s Church, as well as Rev. Messrs. Quartermaine, Ellis and McEwen; the visitor asking Rev. Mr. Quartermaine to make the address which from long acquaintance Mr. Quartermaine was able to do with appreciation of the worth of the friend who had been taken from them.

As was becoming for Mr. Eady had been a member of the managing committee of nearly every Band which the town has had since 1870, the Citizens Band headed the funeral procession, being followed by 150 or so of the Orangemen from town and neighbor lodges, by mourners 125 or so vehicles, and by a large number of citizens on foot. From Railway Street to the creek bridge both sides of the street were lined with carriages and people. And slowly on a Sunday afternoon to the strains of “The Dead March in Saul” the sad procession proceeded on the way which Mr. Eady had trod nearly every Sunday during the summers of many years. At the cemetery, Rev. Mr. Quartermaine first conducted the service of commitment to the grave; of dust to dust and ashes to ashes. And then the Orange Brethren paid their last token of respect to one who had been for so many years looked up to as a beloved leader among them; the expressive religious service being read by Bro. James Moore of Eganville, County Master, and Bro. Alex Fraser Sr., of Renfrew, acting as county chaplain; the brethren there after as they marched past the grave depositing on the casket sprigs of evergreen. And then as the grave was being filled, there came from the Band the notes of “God Be With You Till We Meet Again” and “Safe In The Arms Of Jesus”.

The pallbearers were James A. Eady (brother), James Stewart of Pembroke (brother-in-law), Adam Lindsay, A.A. Wright, John Devine and W.E. Smallfield, not one of whom had known Mr. Eady for less than forty years.

A large number of the citizens of Pembroke and Cobden and of the district thereabouts had prepared to come down on the Sunday noon C.P.R. express, but a wreck in the West had delayed that train for five hours.

The flag of the local L.O.L. draped in mourning, hung from the windows of their hall in the McAndrew block as the funeral procession passed beneath.

Mr. Eady was a staunch Conservative; in his early days militant in the service of the party; yet always maintaining the friendliest personal relation with his political opponents; and, when as was often the case when his party was in power, he was chosen returning officer, the Liberals were content, for they knew that they would get fair play and that every effort would be exerted to see that there was an honest count. Similarly, though an ardent Orangeman – the most popular and influential man among them for many years in this county – he numbered some of his warmest friends among his Roman Catholic neighbours. They knew that whatever his political opinions might be as affecting their church, there was no bitterness in his heart towards them nor even hatred of their faith; and so many a heartfelt “May God Rest His Soul” fell from their lips when they read the announcement of his death.

And in all that has been written this has not been brought out – that Mr. Eady not only helped the people in official ways, but he was the personal adviser in business and family matters of a host who realized his integrity, recognized his kindness of heart and valued his judgement.

There survive one son R.W. Eady of Renfrew, and four daughters – Mrs. H.S. Bowden of Pembroke, Mr. M. McKinnon and Mrs. H.D. Scott and Miss Belle of Renfrew. Mrs. Eady was laid to rest in May a year ago, and two children predeceased them in early childhood. Of Mr. Eady’s own generation there survive four brothers – William B., Robert B., John R., and James A., and one sister Mrs. Thos. Clarke Sr. all of Horton.

In 1908 in its jubilee issue The Mercury close its biographical sketch of Mr. Eady as follows:
– He has been Clerk of Horton since 1866, treasurer of Renfrew since 1872, secretary-treasurer of the Board of Education since 1872; Clerk of the Division Court since 1872, Justice of the Peace since 1881, and Police Magistrate of the town of Renfrew since 1905.

It can be surmised from this record that he has not had many idle moments for some years. Possibly the people will give him a monument when he is gone; they have never paid him enough while he is alive. His epitaph will be “A Just Man – And Merciful”.

Charles A. Dewey
From the Renfrew Mercury
06 February 1925

A member of Renfrew’s “ginger group” is Mr. Charles A. Dewey – pusher, optimist, enthusiast, and the embodiment of that quality known in these times as “pep”. For about a quarter of a century he has resided in Renfrew ranking almost from the first as one of this community’s best known and most popular residents. He came here from Kingston, but the place of his birth was Colborne, a Northumberland county community on the shores of Lake Ontario. Mr. Dewey early acquired that breadth of view which has ever since characterized him.

He came to Renfrew to take a position in the departmental store of Mackay Bros. then the town’s biggest mercantile establishment. For twelve years he remained with that firm.

Fire and life insurance next engaged his attention, to which lines were added real estate and a railway and steamship ticket agency, plus the role of auctioneer. In this work Mr. Dewey has been a conspicuous success, drawing a patronage from a wide territory and always sending people away satisfied.

When Mr. Dewey first came to Renfrew he took an active part in athletics – in their promotion. Especially did he push hockey, acting in conjunction with men such as the late William Jamieson, in which direction he remained a pusher until about fifteen years ago. He was a warm supporter of other games as well, and in the matter of cricket was a player. A player he is still, in the matter of curling, and a certain shot made by him in Pembroke on the evening of the 29th has been the talk of two towns.

Mr. Dewey’s hobby has always been horses. For a long while the harness horse was his preference; now he prefers the saddle horse, and is often in the saddle, thinking it the best and most exhilarating form of exercise open to man. His fondness for horseback riding has spread to a number of others in Renfrew, resulting in something like a riding club being formed.

Though never serving as a Town Councillor nor as a member of the Board of Education, Mr. Dewey has given of his time and talents and abounding energy to the Board of Trade, one of whose executive members he is. Always a “booster” for Renfrew, his connection with the Board of Trade is inevitable.

He is vice president of the Renfrew Rotary Club, one whose presence tends to give zest to meetings. His address upon insurance before that body a few months ago formed one of the most illuminating messages, the club has so far heard. For a number of years he has filled the office of Secretary-treasurer of the South Renfrew Agricultural Society, and it is due to him as much as to any other person that the Renfrew fair goes on from strength to strength. This week he is in Toronto as a delegate to the annual convention on the Fairs and Exhibitions Associations, whereby many a man will hear something of Renfrew town and Renfrew fair from one able to make himself heard in any gathering.

For the development of a bigger and better Renfrew, Mr. Dewey would have a closer and stronger relationship between the outlying districts and the town. He would have the town get into more intimate touch with the farmers, showing the farmers that it is in their best interests to buy their dry goods, groceries and other goods here, not only because they can do it just as well, if not much better, but because in doing so they are helping to build up a larger town and better market. And, he would urge residents of the town to patronize only the home industries, in which the main one he says, is our mercantile industry. He feels that the town must be developed from within; that instead of looking for additions in the form of new concerns, we should aim to have existing ones expand.

MATTHEW DEVINE
RENFREW MERCURY
DECEMBER 5, 1924

Renfrew lost one of its oldest and most respected citizens on Wednesday. News of his passing came as a shock to the community for although it was generally known that for more than a year past he had not been enjoying his usual good health, few were aware that serious illness had again seized him. It was only on Tuesday morning that he was stricken. Unconsciousness ensued in which state he remained until the end came at 9 o’clock Wednesday morning. There then ended an active useful life which had its beginning in the township of Horton 75 years ago last August.

The deceased was the son of the late Andrew Devine and his wife, Mary Kenny, who had come out from Ireland. Growing up, Matthew and his elder brother John engaged in the meat business in Ottawa; later he came to Renfrew and entered the hardware store of his uncle, the late Patrick Devine. A number of years afterward he and Mr. E.J. McGarry formed a partnership in the hardware business as Devine & McGarry. After the death of the late George Eady, Mr. Devine received appointment as police magistrate and Division Court clerk, which offices he continued to till up to the time of his demise. He was generally regarded as a man of much efficiency in both roles. For a number of years Mr. Devine held membership on the Board of Education. Fond of the out-of-doors he for many years had a summer cottage on Calabogie Lake. He was a patron of athletic sports of various kinds. The curlers long counted him as one of their number. The higher class of entertainments usually found him present. He was a member of St Francis Xavier Church, the Knights of Columbus and the Maccabees. ln politics he was a Conservative. The late Mr. Devine is survived by his wife who before her marriage was Miss Nellie Fitzmaurice. There are four sons and two daughters – Andrew and Michael of British Columbia, Felix in the Bank of Nova Scotia at Kempville, Paul in attendance at the collegiate institute here; Bessie Sister Mary of the Angels of the Good Shepherd community, Toronto and Miss Clare at home. In addition, there are brothers and sisters – John and Patrick Devine of Renfrew, Rev. Mother Victoria and Sister Cresentia of St Joseph’s order, Toronto, Mrs. T.W. McGarry and Miss M.A. Devine of the same city. The late Rev. Father Devine of Osceola was a brother; another brother was the late Andrew Devine of Ottawa. The funeral is to take place this (Friday) morning from the family home on Hall street, to St Francis Church and cemetery.

MR JOHN DEVINE
Renfrew Mercury
August 25 1882

On Thursday last, the 20th inst., Mr. John Devine of this village, died after a few days’ illness, the complaint from which he suffered being the one – Canadian Cholera – with which so many of our citizens have been more or less severely attacked. So rapidly did all his strength fail, that many of his neighbors has scarcely heard of his illness, until they were startled to hear that he was dying. As an old settler in the neighbourhood, and for many years past a resident of the village, the intelligence was received with deep regret by a very extended circle of warmly attached friends, who esteemed him for his kindly disposition in many a generous and self-sacrificing act, without regard to his own comfort, whenever he felt able, and called upon to render any assistance in his power to those wanting it.

The deceased was born at Temple House in the county of Sligo Ireland, in the year 1829, and came to Canada, with his brother Mr. Patrick Devine, in the year 1847. His elder brother Mr. Matthew Devine having previously settled in this neighbourhood before them. He took up land in the township of Horton, near the pinnacle, and being, as a young man, possessed of great physical strength, did nearly the whole of the clearing up of his farm himself. He resided upon it continuously until some ten years ago, he came to reside in the village, joining his brother, Mr. P. Devine in the hardware business, being induced to do this, on account of failing health.

The cessation from the laborious toil of farm life appeared to be beneficial, but although still to outward appearance as hale and strong, his health again began to fail, and just about a year since he took a trip to Ireland and back in the hope of being recruited by it, but the rapidity with which he succumbed to the fatal attack proved that his constitution had been more undermined than his intimate friends had imagined. He died, as above mentioned, last Friday afternoon, and the funeral was at first intended to have taken place on Sunday, but was delayed until Tuesday, in order to allow time for his brother Matthew, and his sister Mrs. Moran, and nephew Mr. John Moran, to come from New Jersey, and his nephew Andrew, from Washington, to attend it.

Besides the relatives of the family from other parts, there was a general attendance of the many residents of the village, and many others from adjacent townships, who were present out of respect to his memory and who filled the church of St. Francis Xavier at 9 am the procession consisting of the Sanctuary boys in their usual altar costume, the officiating priest and the attending clergymen, formed at the church and proceeded to the house to remove the body according to the manner prescribed by the Roman ritual whenever practicable. The psalms of the De Profundis were recited alternately by the officiating priest, the Rev. Felix M. Devine of Ottawa, a nephew of the deceased, and the attending clergymen, Rev. Father Rougier, of Renfrew, Rev. Father Lavin of Pakenham, Rev. Father Marion of Douglas, and Rev. Father Burns, presently of Renfrew. After this the Miserere was intoned, and the funeral cortege formed to proceed to the church, which the parish priest, The Rev. Father Rougier, had caused to be appropriately draped for the occasion. The pall bearers were Mr. John Devine, of Ottawa, Mr. John J. Devine, of Renfrew, Mr. John Moran of Vineland, Mr. Andrew Devine of Washington USA, Mr. Andrew Devine of Ottawa, and Mr. Andrew Moran of Brudenell. Five of these gentlemen are nephews, and one is a cousin of the deceased. ln the church a solemn requiem mass was celebrated by the Rev. Felix M Devine, after which the Libera was sing by Rev. Father Rougier, of Renfrew. At the conclusion of the services in the church the coffin was removed to the hearse, which was waiting at the door. The funeral procession then moved slowly down the main street and across the river to the Roman Catholic Cemetery. When all was over, and the friends were about to depart, Mr. Robert Eady of Horton, an old neighbor and friend of the deceased, standing by the grave and speaking with evident emotion, made a few remarks substantially as follow. We have here committed to the dust the remains of a man who, if ever the Good Samaritan principles were carried out on earth, did his full share to exemplify them among men. He was one who, if he found a man that was robbed, wounded, and lying in the road would not pass on the other side. No he would take him up, and would dress his wounds, he would care for his wants, without any regard to either creed or country. We have been friends for the last 35 years, so that it must be acknowledged that l knew the man. For seven of those years he was one of ourselves. We shared our small luxuries and our many many hardships together, and when he married our friendship was not interrupted, but, on the contrary was more strongly cemented, for his wife was a woman imbued, with the same Samaritan principles as himself, and there was not a house in the settlement that was not benefited in some way by the thoughtfulness and kindness of them both. That wife is now left among us, a widow, to mourn her great loss. She is still with us and we can so little of her. We can speak a comforting, a consoling word, and that she will appreciate, but as for him, we can only bid him here a long long lasting adieu.

THE DEATH OF MR NOBLE DEAN
Renfrew’s Longest-Time Merchant
Renfrew Mercury November 6, 1914

In a portion of last week’s issue there was brief note of the almost sudden death of Mr. Noble Dean. Of late his friend’s and the acquaintances who met him on the street from day to day could see the he was visibly failing in health, and to his close friends he himself expressed the feeling that he was going downhill. The week previous to his demise he had taken a tum for the worse and had not been at the store for some days; though nothing serious was anticipated; but on Thursday evening, October 29th, death came to him as he was sitting in his chair; his son William being in conversation with him at the time.

Mr. Dean was Renfrew’s oldest merchant, actively engaged up to the time of his death, being practically in continuous business here since 1873. He was born in Fitzroy in 1834, son of the late Wm. Dean, a farmer of that township. As he came to manhood he left the farm and sewed a mercantile apprenticeship in Pakenham, in that day one of the busy places in the Ottawa Valley. He came to Renfrew in 1872 and after a year as a clerk, part of the time with the late James Tierney and part with the late R.C. Mills, he went into business as a member of the firm Dean & Matthews. Later, this partnership was dissolved, and then for some years he conducted business alone; then selling out to Blair & Martin. Later on, the firm of Dean and Sibary was formed; then again there was a period of business under his own name until a few years ago, when his son William became of business years, and the firm of Dean & Son came into existence.

Mr. Dean might almost be described as a born merchant; his business, always substantial, and prosperous, being built up mostly on his own personality. He looked after his customers as personal friends and gave them those kindly attentions which make for permanent business relationships. He was interested in politics; but had no inclination for public duties; his business and his home being the centres around which his thoughts and activities almost entirely radiated.

The funeral took place from his home on Quarry street on Sunday afternoon; Rev.E.B. Horne, assisted by Rev. W.M.H. Quartermaine, conducting the services there and at the grave.

The pallbearers were Dr. Murphy, and Messrs. I.E. Pedlow, John Devine, W.C. Carruth, Lawrence Martin and John B. McLaren. Besides a large gathering of citizens there was a large representation of country people from sections of the county wide apart; and Messrs. W.D. Carmichael of George Robinson’s, Kingston; John Carroll of the firm of Mackay, a representative of that Montreal concern, and Mr. Joseph Tucker of the Ault firm, Ottawa; representing the wholesale mercantile community.

There was a wealth of floral memorials; two vehicles being required to carry them. The procession of carriages was one of the longest seen here in recent years.

William Henry Davies or W. H. Davies
Biography

W. H. Davies born July 3rd 1871 was a Welsh poet and writer. Davies spent a significant part of his life as a tramp or vagabond in the United States and United Kingdom, but became known as one of the most popular poets of his time. The principal themes in his work are the marvels of nature, observations about life’s hardships, his own tramping adventures and the various characters Davies met. Davies is usually considered as one of the Georgian poets, although much of his work is atypical of the style and themes adopted by others of the genre.

Davies the son of an iron moulder was born at 6, Portland Street in the Pillgwenlly district of Newport, Monmouthshire and a busy port. Davies’ father died when he was two. When his mother remarried she agreed that care of the three children should pass to their paternal grandparents who ran the nearby Church House Inn at 14, Portland Street. His grandfather Francis Boase Davies, originally from Cornwall, had been a sea captain. Davies was related to the famous British actor Sir Henry Irving, referred to as cousin Brodribb by the family.

In his 1918 “Poet’s Pilgrimage” Davies recounts the time when, at the age of 14, he had been left with orders’ to sit with his dying grandfather. Davies missed the final moments of his grandfather’s passing as he had been too engrossed in reading “a very interesting book of wild adventure”.

Davies finishing school under a cloud at the age of 15, having been given twelve strokes of the birch for shoplifting with a gang of school mates. His grandmother signed the papers for Davies to become an apprentice to a local picture frame maker. Davies never enjoyed the craft, however, but never settled into any regular work. Davies was a difficult and somewhat delinquent young man, and made repeated requests to his grandmother to lend him the money to sail to America. When these were all refused, Davies eventually left Newport, took casual work and started to travel. The Autobiography of a Super Tramp, published in 1908, covers his life in the USA between 1893 and 1899, and includes many adventures and characters from his travels as a drifter. During this period, he crossed the Atlantic at least seven times working on cattle ships. Davies traveled through many of the States, sometimes begging, sometimes taking seasonal work, but often ending up spending any savings on a drinking spree with a fellow traveler. At one stage, on his way to Memphis, Tennessee he lay alone in a swamp for three days and nights suffering from malaria.

The turning point in Davies’ life came when he read in England of the riches to be made in the Klondike and immediately set off to make his fortune in Canada. Attempting to jump a freight train at Renfrew, Ontario with fellow tramp Three fingered Jack, he lost his footing and his right foot was crushed under the wheels of the train. The leg later had to be amputated below the knee and thereafter Davies wore a wooden leg. Davies’ biographers have agreed that the significance of the accident should not be underestimated, even though Davies himself played down the story. Moult begins his biography with the incident and Stonesifer has suggested that this event more than any other led Davies to become a professional poet. Davies himself wrote of the accident: “I bore this accident with an outward fortitude that was far from the true state of my feelings. Thinking of my present helplessness caused me many a bitter moment, but I managed to impress all comers with a false indifference. I was soon home again, having been away less than four months, but all the wildness had been taken out of me, and my adventures after this were not of my own seeking, but the result of circumstances.” Davies’ view of his own disability was ambivalent. In his poem “The Fog”, published in the 1913 Foliage a blind man leads the poet through the fog, showing the reader that one who is handicapped in one domain may well have a considerable advantage in another. W. H. Davies died on September 26th 1940. Davies was not born in Renfrew Ontario but ended up there. Davies’ story is one worth reading, as well as an honour to be added to the famous residents of Renfrew, Ontario.

The Honorable Mr. Justice Craig
James Craig, Q.C. of Renfrew, appointed Associate Judge
of the Yukon District

Some months ago, it was known to his intimate friends that our fellow-townsman, James Craig, Q.C., had been offered an important position – that of Associate Judge in the Yukon District, the appointment carrying also the ex officio position of Member of the Executive Council of Yukon District, charged with the general administration of the affairs of that comparatively new but yet important part of the Dominion.

Though the post was of sufficient honor and responsibility and emolument to make it worthy of the greatest consideration, it involved such a tearing up of old associations, and in a sense, so much of something like an exile, that it was not to be accepted off-hand. After due deliberation, Mr. Craig decided that he would take the proffered honor; that thereupon the Minister of Justice Hon. David Mills, recommended to the Cabinet of the Dominion Government that Mr. Craig be appointed, the Cabinet accepted the recommendation of the Minister, the Governor-General added his sanction, and on Tuesday evening of this week, Mr. Craig received the formal notification that he was now the Honorable Justice Craig; and The Mercury – which from a newspaper point of view would have been pleased to let its readers know of the possible appointment some time ago, but at Mr. Craig’s express request made no mention of the current rumours – had the pleasure of being the first to congratulate him upon the acquisition of the new title.

The office carries with it a salary of $4,000 a year, and $3,000 a year for living expenses.

While Mr. Craig’s neighbors in Renfrew will rejoice to learn that his ability for the post – as well as his services to the dominant political party – have been recognized by this appointment to a position which is a good one from a material standpoint, there will yet by general regret that one who has for nearly a quarter of a century borne a prominent part in the activities of the town and the county, and been a leader in many of its progressive movements, is little longer to mingle with us as a citizen.

In the municipal field, Justice Craig has been Councillor, Reeve, first mayor of Renfrew, and Warden of the County; member of the Board of Education, of the Public Library Board, and of Boards and Committees of a public character of kinds innumerable. Mr. Craig has also been a prominent member of many of the fraternal societies – and has been particularly active in the Masonic and Sons of Scotland organizations. In the Masonic body, he has held the highest offices in the local lodge, and is at present Grand Standard Bearer of the Royal Arch Masons.

In the realm of politics, he has always been a staunch Liberal, and a hard fighter. The son of a man who was one of the two or three who dared to be Liberals in a strongly Conservative town, when it was almost dangerous to be a Liberal, Mr. Craig has fought the battles of the Liberal party in South Renfrew with voice and pen and pocket-book through all its varying fortunes. And now that the party is in a position to reward the labors, and at the same time secure Mr. Craig’s abilities for the service of the country in a position to reward the labors, and at the same time secure Mr. Craig’s abilities for the service of the country in a position for which he is well fitted, there will be unanimity that the Government has done well.

No doubt in years of legal and political Hay, Mr. Craig has made opponents, but if they remained enemies it was their own fault. His is not a disposition to harbor ill-feeling; and we fancy that all who know him will at once admit that he is possessed of a judicial mind, and will deal out even-handed justice.

Mr. Justice Craig, was born at Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, on the 31st July, 1851. His parents came to Canada in 1851 and lived in Ottawa for three years. They moved to Arnprior in 1857, and there he attended the Public and High Schools. He graduated B.A. at McGill College in May 1874; entered the law office of Scott, Ross and Stewart in July, 1874; was called to the bar in May 1878; and went to Pembroke to practice in the same year, immediately after the call; and on the advice of some of Renfrew’s leading citizens came to Renfrew in October, 1878, and has since, as noted above, taken his fair share of the duties of citizenship. He was made a Q.C. in 1890. He was married in New York on May 22nd 1870, to Elizabeth Olivia MacPherson, daughter of Edward MacPherson, at one time a prominent lawyer and politician of New York Mrs. Craig has taken an active part in the social affairs of her Canadian home; and her musical talents have always been at the command of local charities and churches.

Judge Craig will leave for the Yukon, Dawson City – early in June. There has been such development of court business that Judge Dugas has not been able to attend to it all; and there will be much work for his associate to take up. Mrs. and Miss Craig will remain in Renfrew for a time. Mr. W.B. Craig, of Arnprior, will probably take the Judge’s place in the law firm of Craig and McNab.

Thomas M. Costello
From the Renfrew Mercury
03 April 1925

Mr. Thomas M. Costello, B.A. barrister, solicitor etc. of Renfrew is a Canadian of the second generation. He was born in this country, as were also his parent. Not only is Mr. Costello Canadian-born but he entered upon life’s stage in the county of Renfrew. Brudenell was the place of his nativity. There he attended public school, and in that institution began his long connection with athletics. There were frequent changes of teachers but the one he best remembers was Mr. J.E. McDonald, who afterward left the county and for a while held a principalship at Cornwall. There was a fifth class in Brudenell public school when Mr. Costello attended, and he got the first part of matriculation before leaving home.

His high school course was taken in Renfrew. From here he went to Ottawa University, where he took an arts course. After teaching for two years in Calabogie Public School Mr. Costello entered Osgoode Hall, Toronto, for the study of law, where he specialized in criminal law. Whether at public school, collegiate institute, university or Osgoode Hall, he shone at athletics, being a votary of lacrosse and baseball in summer, football in autumn and hockey in winter. He was captain of Ottawa University football team in 1906, in which year he had the honor of being picked as outside wing on the All-Star Canadian team. A 6-footer now and weighing 200 pounds, he gives evidence of what he was in an athletic way in his student days.

Called to the bar in 1912, Mr. Costello came to Renfrew and entered into partnership with the Hon. T. W. McCarthy, and subsequently he bought Mr. McCarthy’s interests and the office is now in his name only. In June, 1923, Mr. Costello was a candidate for a seat in the Legislature in the Conservative interest. There was a triangular contest. He was third in the running but only a few votes behind the second man, which he considered good for one late in entering. To him fell the honor of being the first Conservative to carry the town of Renfrew.

Mr. Costello is a busy man but finds time for the service of his fellows in the Rotary Club and as a member of the Hospital Board. He is president of the Renfrew hockey club. He holds membership in the Renfrew Poultry Association being one of the most enthusiastic members of that body. Aristocratic poultry is his hobby, albeit it is a hobby that must share a place with athletics. And of the matter of a hobby, books also have a place and Mr. Costello is building up a good library. Mention of books is a reminder that he is preparing himself for platform work in French, convinced that the men of Canada should have bilingual training.

Mr. Costello would develop a bigger and better Renfrew through the development of industries. He, being a Conservative, feels that a protective tariff would help in building up and fostering industries. With factories running full time and wages good there would, he says, be more money to go into the farmer’s pockets and a better home market would come.

JOHN CONLEY
From the Renfrew Mercury
08 May 1925

Now cometh the baseball season and a citizen of Renfrew who will have more or less to do with the game in this town from the month of June until the end of September, will be Mr. John Conley, who for over a score of years has filled a like role here. Baseball is with him a vocation; his vocation is plumbing.

He learned the plumbing business in Kingston, his native town, long prominent as a baseball burgh, and his first visit to Renfrew was in the winter of 1888, when in the home of Mr. Allen Francis, now the residence of Mr. F.D. Vickers, he did some work for the late James Ward. Mr. Conley came to Renfrew as a representative of the Kingston plumbing firm of McKelvey & Birch. For the same firm he was here to install a hot-water heating system in the home of the late Noble Dean, and all the while as the work progressed Mr. Dean had his doubts about it, being unable to see how hot water in radiators was going to give sufficient heat to make a house comfortable in below zero atmosphere. The same Kingston firm with Mr. Conley in service, also installed heating system in the Cameron block, Pedlow store, McAndrew block, Mackay block and other buildings.

Forming a good impression of Renfrew while in the town temporarily, Mr. Conley resolved to locate here, and in 1902 he opened business with Mr. Allan Derry, also of Kingston as his partner. The partnership continued for five years. Mr. Conley has been at work ever since, and about a year ago took into partnership Mr. Thos. Williams, when the firm name of Conley & Co. was adopted. Owing to the location of the shop, the wags speak of Mr. Conley as “the man behind the Bank of Montreal.”

He has had no aspirations for public service, convinced that there can always be found plenty of men with a fondness for work in the Town council and as school trustees, and that neither the town nor the schools suffer from his lack of liking for that service. He has given help to organizations notably the Masons and the Oddfellows, having been particularly solicitous in the
weal of the former body.

As for Renfrew, he regards it as the best town in the Ottawa Valley. He says it is practically the only one that was alive during the past winter. His firm found it necessary to lay off no help. Times, says Mr. Conley, are no harder than people think they are. In the matter of shopping he opines that people should spend their money where they get the biggest value for it. With the stores of Renfrew he feels that the time for doing business is too short; there is too much closing. Fathers of the present storekeepers did not make their money in that way, observes Mr. Conley, who also comments upon the lack of socialability once so much in evidence in business. Taxes are high, but what, he asks, is not materially higher than it used to be? For high rates today he is inclined to blame in part to former councils that failed to raise enough money to pay their way.

MR J.E. COLSON
From the Renfrew Mercury
1925

Mr. J.E. Colson, manager of Hotel Renfrew, is Canadian-born of Canadian parents. He entered upon the stage of life in the city of Guelph, where the Ontario Agricultural College is and where the first president of Hotel Renfrew Co., Mr. W.E. Smallfield, now makes his home. Growing up there, Mr. Colson just naturally became interested in baseball, for Guelph is one of the leading baseball burghs of Ontario and is today completing a $25,000 field. Nineteen years ago Mr. Colson left Wellington county for Algonquin Park, where he took the management of Highland Inn, one of Ontario’s best known tourist homes. After a stay there of five years he accepted an offer of the management of Hotel Renfrew, which under the dual direction of himself and Mrs. Colson grew in popularity. Coming in the fall of 1914, Mr. Colson remained here for two years, then went to Peterborough. After doing business in the Electric City for one year he made the purchase of a summer hotel at Joe Lake in Algonquin Park, which he still owns. He returned to Renfrew in 1920.

Manager now of one of the best known hotels of the province, he is one of Ontario’s most widely known hotelmen. The travelling public regard him as an efficient manager of an excellent hotel – an outstanding hotel for a town. It is a hotel which, opening in 1914 with 40 bedrooms, was soon enlarged, and rooms now number 60, some of them having accommodation for more than one lodger. Frequently every room is occupied, with an overflow into improvised bedrooms. Mr. Colson’s “better half” also comes from Guelph, and has always been a big help to him in his management of “houses of public entertainment.”

“The management of Hotel Renfrew is no sinecure and Mr. Colson is a busy man, but he takes from leisure hours, time enough to serve as people’s warden of St Paul’s church, president of Renfrew curling club and president of Renfrew baseball club. Efficiency is made his watchword in all these relations. In the summer he is a frequent umpire at baseball matches, to which work he brings long experience on the diamond. When a player in Guelph his favorite position was second base. He holds membership in the Renfrew Rotary Club, and is a member of that particularly active committee, namely, that having to do with crippled children.”

Hunting and fishing are a hobby with Mr. Colson, and motoring counts him among its votaries.

For a bigger and better Renfrew, he thinks that as the years go on we can give more and more thanks to the tourist business for an inflow of money. This business, he says, is improving here right along. He has noticed it particularly in the last year or two, as the roads grow better. Naturally he is interested in the tourist trade, not only because manager of a good hotel on a provincial highway, but on account of being connected with a tourist hotel in Algonquin Park. Mr. Colson feels that it would be helpful to this town, likewise beneficial to the whole province, if there were a through road from Ottawa to Algonquin Park, a road making a circuit of that great national playground.

DEATH OF MR C.C. COLLINS
Renfrew Mercury
June 6, 1902

For some time, it has been known that there was no hope of the recovery of Mr. C.C. Collins, headmaster of the Roman Catholic Separate School; and the end came early on Saturday morning. Mr. Collins had not been in good health for a couple of years, but struggled manfully on with his work, until a severe cold, contracted at the close of the winter, compelled him to cease his labors, and from that time on the decline of his strength was steady. The deceased came to Renfrew some five or six years ago, to take charge of the Separate School after the Christian Brothers left; and being an accomplished violinist was soon impressed into public service in many ways; having charge of the Renfrew Orchestra in its palmist days, and having instructed many young Renfrewites in music. He was generous in the use of his gifts for all worthy public enterprises; and was much esteemed by those who were in this way thrown into his companionship.

For some years, too, he has been secretary-treasurer of the Public Library Board. Deceased was 44 years of age, and leaves a widow and five young children. He was a member of the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, and carried $2,000 insurance in that benevolent fraternity.

The funeral took place on Monday morning to the church of St. Francis Xavier, the boys of the Separate School, marshaled by Mr. F.M. Devine, and the C.M.B.A., led by Mr. Dominic Coulas, preceding the hearse. After the funeral service the procession reformed, and proceeded to the K.&P. Railway station, whence the remains were taken to Guelph, the home town of both Mr. and Mrs. Collins. The remains were accompanied by Mrs. Collins, and the two eldest children, Mr. Joseph Downey, M.P.P., of Guelph, (brother of Mrs. Collins) and Mr. A. Gravelle, chairman of the Renfrew Separate School Board.

THE LATE JAMES CLARK
Renfrew Mercury
1938

Death at times seems to levy particularly heavy toll on a community within a brief period. The last three months have seen Renfrew lose three men of more than usual usefulness and prominence; two of them residents for a long term, the other for a shorter but fruitful period. George Eady Jr., Rev. John Hay and now James Clark.

Born on April 8th, l85l, in Lennox County, James Clark came to Renfrew in 1872, after a few years’ experience as a teacher and at surveying, and a year’s experience with his brother-in-law, N.W. Davy, in a drug store at Pakenham. To Renfrew he came to manage a branch store for Smith A. Davy, the Davy of the firm being Mr. Clark’s brother-in-law. The business was established in the building erected by T.B. Muir and known now as China Hall. In about a year’s time, Mr. Smith retired, and the business was managed in the name of N.W. Davy. Shortly afterwards it became Davy & Clark, who removed to the Groves block, and changed again when the business was removed to the Barnet block, Mr. Clark became the sole proprietor and conducted it in his own name. In this building, his in-born sense of the elegant and orderly found expression, in the fitting up of what was then the finest drug store in Eastern Ontario; and which to this day is as strongly fine an interior as will be found anywhere outside of the cities.

From his professional training as a teacher, surveyor and druggist, he was mentally well-equipped for fitting into leadership in many avenues of the Renfrew of 30 years ago. In social life and enjoyments, he was an active figure; then developed into responsible place in several of the beneficent fraternal orders, and later, as his abilities were more generally recognized, took an active part in school and municipal affairs.

In 1884 he first entered the municipal council as councilor; in 1893 he was chosen deputy-reeve, and in 1894 also. In 1895 Renfrew became incorporated as a town and James Craig, who had been reeve, advancing to the mayoralty, Mr. Clark stepped up to the reeveship; and in 1896 became mayor. He was re-elected in 1897, in which year Renfrew’s waterworks system was installed. Mr. Clark, who had been one of those interested in securing this desirable advance, was chairman of the waterworks committee in the year of installation. In school affairs his record also was long. He was first elected to the Board of Education in 1884, and was chosen chairman in 1894. Then he dropped out for a year or two, but was afterwards elected for several terms. The Oddfellows among the fraternal orders, it might be said that his fealty was chiefly given. He was one of the earliest members of Marion lodge; and after going through all the offices to the highest in the district, settled down to the treasurership of the local lodge; and from the excellent and methodical nature of his services there, began to be looked on as the natural holder of the strong box of other institutions – the Canadian Foresters, the Chosen friends and of the Liberal-Conservative Association. In the affairs of the Agricultural and Horticultural societies also, he took deep interest; and was high in office in the Horticultural Society while it was in existence, and after it was merged with the Agricultural society, was vice-president of that organization for many years; declining the presidency when offered it, deeming it wisest that it should be in the hands of someone connected with farming operations. At the annual fair, for many years he was director in charge of floral display, and it was therefore not unfitting that upon the demise of one who had been so intimately connected with the development of floral affairs in the town, the memorial offerings were in profusion and beauty such as had probably never before been seen here.

Besides those from private friends were handsome floral pieces from the Town Council, the Agricultural Society, the Conservative Associations of riding and town, Oddfellows, Canadian Foresters, Chosen Friends, Rebekahs, and the Ladies Aid Society of St Andrew’s congregation.

Mr. Clark was married in 1878 to Miss Annie Cameron, then of Douglas, who survives him; and to whom in her double bereavement – her mother having been laid in Thomson’s Hill only a month ago – a deep measure of sympathy goes out. Four sons also survive; Roy, at present at home; James on his farm near Moose Jaw, Sask.; William, in the drug store here; and Stuart, who is yet at school years. His brother William of Harrowsmith, and sister, Mrs. N.W. Davy of Morrisburg, were both here for the funeral.

Interment was made with members of Oddfellows. At the house the first service conducted by Rev. Mr. Horne, assisted by Rev. Messrs. Quartermaine and Moore (of Douglas). Thereafter the Oddfellows took charge, and as was becoming at the funeral one who had so often led us one of the marshals the well-ordered decoration parades of the Order, the arrangements moved smoothly and with decorum; with Mr. D.W. Budd – so often Mr. Clark’s associate in the processions – in direction; the Citizens Band, playing the Dead March in Saul, leading the Oddfellows – some 50 in number; then the members of the Town Council in carriages, as were leading members of the Liberal Conservative Associations of the town and riding; and then the large body of the citizenship generally. At the cemetery there was commitment service first by Rev. Mr. Horne, then by the Oddfellows; Rev. W.H. M. Quartermaine acting as Noble Grand, and Mr. James H Walford, as chaplain and expressive expression to the fine service. The brethren placed upon the coffin of their late brother their sprigs of evergreen; and then with the band playing “Rock of Ages” earth closed over he who for forty years had contributed his part to the progress of the community, and whose memory will be kept green each year by the services which he helped to inaugurate, and which were the commencement of that orderly maintenance of the cemetery which is so fitting an expression of our higher citizenship.

A TRIBUTE TO JAMES CLARK
(Carleton Place Central Canadian)

Renfrew was plunged into heavy sorrow last week by the sudden death of one of its first citizens, Mr. James Clark druggist. In the evening he was at his store; in the morning he was in his mansion beyond. For thirty years he was a leading figure in every phase of public life – time, money, counsel service, wit and wisdom constantly flowing from him – his fountains never failing. He seemed at times to listen for the knockings of opportunity where other men would silence their ears and close their bowels. If there were times when he seemed gruff and indisposed, it was more like a process of analysis he was putting the petitioner through; when he found things sound his geniality became artesian.

Renfrew has lost many eminent citizens, but none greater or more to be missed than Mr. Clark. He was a Church and Fraternity man, and for a quarter of a century the Treasurer of the Conservative Party of South Renfrew, but again more resplendent than either of these patents of nobility, he was James Clark.

THE LATE REV. JAMES BURNS
Renfrew Mercury
February 1, 1884

The announcement of the death of the Rev. James Burns, at the early age of 29 years, will be received with sorrow, not only by his friends in this vicinity, but by many companions of his youth, now widely scattered in various parts of the continent, but who feel a deep interest in any event connected with Renfrew. The deceased was a son of Mr. John Bums, one of the earliest settlers in this village, was well and favourably known to most of the residents, specially to those in communion with the Roman Catholic Church, in which he was brought up, and of which he subsequently became a priest. He received his early education in the Public School (before the Separate School was established) and in the High School, and was distinguished as a scholar of more than average ability. Although quiet in disposition, his genial and pleasant manners always secured him friends among those with whom he became acquainted. His Theological education was pursued at St Joseph’s College, Ottawa, and after he was ordained in October 1881, in the chapel of the college by Msg. Bishop Duhamel. He was sent as curate to the Gatineau Point parish, where he remained for six months, till his health commenced to fail.

After two months in Ottawa hospital he returned to his parents’ home here. During the absence of Rev. P. Rougier last year on a visit to Europe, Rev. J. Burns was in charge of the parish. His health however, continued to fail, and since the of the pastor, he has been an invalid, nearly always confined to the house. His decline towards the last was rapid, and although his relatives were aware that his end was near, the news of his death on Monday was a shock to many of the residents, who had only very recently learned of the serious nature of his illness. The affection with which he had so lately spiritually ministered, and the general esteem in which he was held by the community, was manifested by the large attendance of all denominations at the funeral service on Thursday. The remains of the lamented deceased were borne in an open coffin from the residence of his father to the church, the funeral procession being led by the clergy, and followed by a dense throng of mourners.

The pall bearers were Messrs. B Brennan, P. Devine, R. Barry, D. O’Connor, John J. Devine, F. Devine, Wm. Barry and John McGuire. Marshalls Messrs. P. Devine Sr. and C. Enright. The following clergymen were present – His Lordship the Bishop of Cythers (P) Vicar Apostolic of Pontiac, Rev. Father Lavin, P.P, of Pakenham, Rev. Father Brunet P.P. of Portage du Fort, Rev. Father Foley P.P. Almonte, Rev. Father Rougier, P.P. Renfrew, Rev. Father Chaine P.P. Arnprior, Rev. Father Coffey editor of the Catholic Record Ottawa, Rev. Father Fillatre OML Professor of Philosophy College of Ottawa, Rev. Father Cole St. Patrick’s Church, Ottawa, His Lordship celebrated solemn High Mass, attended by Rev. Father Fillatre OMI as assistant priest, and Rev. Fathers Lavin and Devine as deacon and sub-deacon. The Rev. Father Coffey, taking his text from the book of Judas Maccabous, compared the death of that Jewish hero, and the lamentations of the people for him, to that of a Christian Priest, who had died in the duties of his sacred office, and the grief felt on this occasion. He eloquently eulogized the virtues of his deceased friend. The corpse, after being blessed by his Lordship, was borne round the church and finally deposited in the vault under the sanctuary.

DAVID W. BUDD
From the Renfrew Mercury
22 May 1925

Mr. David W. Budd of Renfrew was born at North Elmsley in Lanark County but as a small boy removed with his parents to Arnprior, in which town he got his business training. He was with R.J. Whitlaw builder of “The Arcade,” who afterward went to Winnipeg, first as a retailer and later, as a wholesaler. In 1887 Mr. Budd came to Renfrew and embarked in the boot and shoe business in a stand close to the Ottawa House and on the same side of the street. His next stand was farther up street, in the neighborhood of Dr. Murphy’s present office, and it will be recalled that on the wooden sidewalks of those days many footprints of a moccasined man showed all leading to Budd’s. The Jack Stalker of those days had been at work. Moccasins bulked large in the goods carried, and they were sold “by the cord.”

All the while Mr. Budd was handling fur as a sideline, as he had done from boyhood, and disposing of his stock of footwear in 1906 went into the fur business exclusively, which line of activity he has pursued ever since with a gratifying amount of success. In looking up fur he sometimes travels far afield, going on occasions long distances above the headwaters of the Coulonge and the Black rivers where Indians are the only inhabitants. Some of these journeys have been fraught with danger from wild animals, from turbulent waters, and from the loss of bearings in the trackless wilds. Mr. Budd can tell of thrilling experiences in the wilderness. In 1918 he was joined in the business by his son Norman, who looks after the sale of made-up furs.

Buying and selling fur, a specialty is made of silver fox pelts. Mr. Budd owned a number of live foxes but has never raised any. On Saturday last he sent a shipment of silver-fox skins to the London sales the first to go there from Renfrew.

Mr. Budd never served the public as a member of the Town Council or the Board of Education, but for a long period he was a director of the South Renfrew Agricultural Society. He and Mr. W.E. Smallfield were two men who took hold of it and boosted it with might and main at a time when its fortunes were at a low ebb. For about two years he held the position of exhibition manager, the fair going from strength to strength all the while.

For a period of four years Mr. Budd filled the position of manager of Hotel Renfrew.

District secretary of the I.0.0.F. was an office whose duties he discharged for 33 years. He is a charter member of the Canadian Order of Foresters. For several years he played the role
of auctioneer.

In all relations of life, he aimed for thoroughness. He has never been anything but alert,
energetic, resourceful.

RENFREW LOSES ANOTHER PROMINENT BUSINESS MAN
Renfrew Mercury February 1940
Mr. D.W. Budd, Long The Valley’s Leading Furrier Passes

Mr. David W. Budd, one of Renfrew’s prominent businessmen, passed away Saturday morning at Renfrew. Mr. Budd was injured in an automobile accident about five months ago. He was born at North Elmsley, 74 years ago, a son of the late Thomas Budd and Sarah Wilson. When still quite young he moved with his family to Arnprior. Then at the age of 17, he opened a store for a year at Mattawa on the C.P.R. construction. He went from there to Carleton Place, where he conducted a general store for a couple of years, before coming to Renfrew at the age of 21.

Mr. Budd’s first business in Renfrew was a shoe store and for over 50 years in advertisements for this and other business his name has appeared in The Mercury. A year after coming to Renfrew he was married to Matilda Ritchie of Pakenham.

In the early days Mr. Budd engaged in the bartering of food, clothing and supplies with the Indians for furs. In time the shoe business was dropped and he devoted his time to dealing in pelts and became Ottawa Valley’s leading furrier. Before the ranching of silver fox became general he made annual shipments of furs to France and Germany and the fur business was carried on to the time of his accident, and is now under the management of his son, Norman.

Another line of activity engaged in by the deceased was that of auctioneering, and he conducted many sales in the surrounding country. But perhaps a trait of character for which he was best known was his wont to visit the sick. And many were the nights he sat by the bedside of a sick or dying friend, giving them the comfort of his friendship and relieving the family.

He was one of the oldest members of the I.O.O.F. and had held every office in the lodge. For over 35 years he was secretary of District No. 56. He was keenly interested in athletics and was secretary of the Renfrew Baseball club when the team was in the St Lawrence Baseball League.

Mr. Budd was secretary-treasurer for the cemetery, gave much of his time to that work and in seeing that the burial ground was kept neatly.

Survivors include one son, Norman D. Budd; three brothers A.T. Budd, Toronto., R.J. Budd Ottawa and Jack V. Budd, Woodstock; two sisters Mrs. J.C. Welch of Vancouver, and Mrs. J.D. Whitmore, Ottawa, three grandchildren Miss Doris Budd, Ottawa, Miss Edna Budd, Renfrew and David Budd of Cadillac Quebec.

The members of the I.O.O.F. attended the funeral in a body and marched at the head of the procession from the home to the United Church. Service in the church was conducted by Rev. Harold B. Neal and Rev. Canon W.M.H. Quartermaine. A solo “The Silent Voice” was beautifully rendered by Miss Gwen Murray of Kingston. After the service conducted by the church, the rites of the Oddfellows took place.

DAVID BARR JR.
From the Renfrew Mercury
21 August 1925

David Barr Jr., Reeve of the Township of Horton was born on a farm a short distance south of Renfrew and has always had his home there ranking among the townships best farmers and most useful citizens. He has been a member of his community’s civic legislature since the year 1909, serving for a number of years as Councillor and during the last six years as Reeve, so that during past six years he has held membership in the County Council and is now getting very close to the wardenship. Mr. Barr not only lives on the farm on which he was born but also in the house where he first saw the light of day, the residence being a substantial stone house of the Scottish style, erected in 1855 and is this one of the landmarks of the district. David Barr Jr. is a son of William Barr and his wife Sarah Dalglish, while William Barr was a son of David Barr, who in coming out from Scotland, secured this homestead from the crown.

In addition to being Reeve of the township David Barr Jr. is a vice-president of the South Renfrew Agricultural Society, which institution is now making big preparations for the 1925 fair. For years before becoming vice -president he was a director of the society. At one time he was one of the largest exhibitors showing horses, cattle, sheep and swine, and he holds a Merchant’s Bank cup for most first prizes in livestock. He has also been an exhibitor of Ottawa where at the Fat Stock Show he once had a prize pen of hogs and won the sweepstakes on the dresses carcasses of three bacon hogs. For several years he made a specialty of raising Yorkshires.

At one time Mr. Barr was a member of the Renfrew Rifle Association and in marksmanship he has not yet lost interest, as it is his custom to go deer-hunting every fall, nearly always to Stonecliffe. Many will remember him as a member of the South Horton football team that played in the days of yore. For a number of years he has been an elder of St. Andrew’s church. In the Oddfellows lodge he has held different elective offices up to the highest in the lodge.

Mr. Barr is an even-tempered man esteemed by all who know him. The several times he has been given municipal honors by acclamation is proof of this. At different times also he has headed the polls.

On a farm through which runs Smith’s Creek the outlet of Hurds Lake, he lives a quiet life, keeping a good brand of cattle and horses and looking upon the world with complacency. He has no suggestions to make a bigger and better Renfrew, preferring to leave that problem to men and women who have always lived here. While saying that early closing of places of business sometimes causes inconvenience to farmers, especially when they want repairs for machinery, he does not think the inconvenience suffered is a great deal.

Mr. Barr not only gets the benefit of running water in pasture, from the presence of Smith’s Creek but through the medium of a windmill and other equipment has a system of Waterworks in his buildings.

THE LATE HAROLD G. BARNET
Renfrew Mercury November 1913

For some time past the family and friends of Mr. Harold G. Barnet have been under the painful realization that he was slowly slipping away from the things of this world. Some five or six years ago he entered upon a business life on the Pacific coast, and there he contracted a severe cold which settled upon his lungs. Despite the advice of the most skilled physicians, the disease made steady progress; and though he well knew the inevitable course of what had affected him, he kept up good spirit to the last, and was most solicitous that those around him should be spared from the grief of witnessing his decline in strength. At an early hour on Monday morning, and at an early period of manhood, the end came, peacefully.

Harold was the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Barnet; and although twice before this their neighbours have been called upon to mourn with them in the loss of some suddenly removed when entering upon manhood – there is a deeper note to the sympathy which goes out to those who see a loved one, upon whom they had been building hopes, slowly fading from the realm of strength and life.

Harold gave promise of possessing to large degree the business acumen of his father, and was like him too in being a generous friend. In September l907 he was married to Miss Louise MacPherson of Glengarry, who survives. Three brothers, Jas. E. H., J. George, and Thos. F.; and four sisters, Mrs. C.B. McAllister, Mrs. Jas. H. Carswell, Mrs. E.H. Code and Miss Grace also mourn his demise. The funeral service on Thursday afternoon was conducted by Rev. F. B. Horne and Rev. W. M.H. Quartermaine. There was a large gathering of sympathetic friends not only from the town but from a wide section of the Ottawa Valley; and such a wealth of floral memorials have never been seen here; coming not only from friends of the family here and elsewhere from coast to coast; but from a large number of financial and industrial companies in which Mr. Barnet and his sons are interested. The pallbearers were Messrs. C.A. Duff, R.W. Eady, Jonathan Carswell, W. Dean, W.R. Clark and Sydney Pottinger.

Renfrew Founding Fathers

Mayors, Reeves and Deputy Reeves of Renfrew
from 1858 to present

Farrell’s Landing
and Opeongo Road

Renfrew Hockey

Cemeteries

Organizations,Clubs, Associations
and Musical Groups

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

My beautiful picture

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September

October

November

December

Mount St. Patrick Index 1

B Birth date
C Christening or Baptism date
M Marriage date
S Burial date
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