Born in County Donelly, Ireland in 1805, he came to Canada when a young man, teaching school while he studied for the Anglican Ministry. In 1843 he completed his studies and was made a Deacon and later ordained to the Priesthood.

Parson Hartin settled in Canterbury as one of the pioneer residents and bought a large tract of land, much of which he eventually donated for Church and school purposes. Being a firm believer in education, he was School Trustee for 33 years. During his ministry, he built two churches, St. Thomas Parish Church at Upper Skiff Lake, which was consecrated in 1873, and this beautiful Church of the Holy Trinity, which was consecrated in 1875.

In 1879 Parson Hartin retired after 32 years as the First Rector of this Parish and a generous patron of this community.

With his death on January 21, 1891, this village lost a faithful and loving Pastor who had dedicated his life to the building of the community. We give Thanks to God for his life and work.

Rest Eternal Grant unto him O Lord, and let light perpetual shine upon him.

Amen."

This plaque was given to Holy Trinity Church by Robert Burns Hartin, a grandnephew.