Perth Courier Obituaries
supplied by Christine M. Spencer of Northwestern University, Evanston, Il., USA.
Died, on the 20th instant, George Patterson, Sr., in the 81st year of his age. The deceased was a native of Perth, in Scotland, and came to Canada in 1814 with his Regiment, the 37th Regiment of Foot, and took his part in the struggle then going on with the neighbouring States. He was discharged in 1816, when he came to Perth and settled here, where he continued to reside until the day of his decease. Before coming to Canada he served with his Regiment through the Peninsula War. He was universally respected and esteemed by all who knew him. Was for many years a member of the Episcopal church and died in the full and firm hope of a blessed immortality.
Died--At the residence of her son-in-law, Mr. Andrew Allan, Balderson's Corners, on Friday, May 3rd, Ann Merigold (Patterson), widow of the late Mr. George Patterson, aged 76 years. The deceased was a native of Worcestershire, England, and with her husband came to Canada and settled in Perth in 1816, when what is now the site of the town was covered with trees. She leaves six sons, two of whom reside in Perth, and two daughters to mourn her loss.
Campbell—Died, in McNab, on Thursday, 11th Dec., Christina (Campbell), wife of Mr. Peter Campbell, aged 77 years.
McRea—Died, at Springtown, Co. Renfrew on 5th Dec., of stricture of the oesophagus, in the 52nd year of his age, Mr. Edward McRea, a native of Springtown, Ireland. (Transcriber’s note: Springtown is given twice, it may have been a printing error)
Woods—Died, at the 5th Concession, Lanark Township, 5th Dec., Mary Ann (Ireton), wife of Mr. Charles Woods, deeply regretted. (Transcriber’s note: Mary Ann’s maiden name is shown, but it is nearly illegible, maybe Ireton?)
Condit—Died, on Sat., 3rd Jan., Mary McGowan, wife of F. A. Condit, on the Scotch Line, Bathurst, in the 30th year of her age.
Dobbie—Died, in Lanark Village on Friday, 2nd Jan., Annie (Dobbie), fourth daughter of the late James Dobbie, Esq., in the 21st year of her age.
Craig—Died, in Lanark Village, on Mon., 5th Jan., Mary Caldwell Robertson (Craig), wife of David Craig, in the 20th year of her age.
Thompson—Died, in Perth, on Tues., 5th inst., Mary King (Thompson), wife of Jacob Thompson, aged 43 (or 48?) years.
McDonald—Died on Friday, 16th Jan., Ann (McDonald), wife of Henry McDonald, Sr., Treasurer of the Township of Drummond, age illegible (maybe 32?).
Leech—Died, on the 17th inst., Martha Ida (Leech), infant daughter of Mr. Robert Leech, 9th Line Beckwith, aged nine months.
McLaren—Died, in Drummond, on the 20th (26th?) Jan., Elizabeth (McLaren), relict of the late Jas. McLaren, Blair-Athol (?), Perthshire, Scotland, aged 77 years.
Cormack—Died, in Pembroke, on Sat., Jan. 23rd (?) George Miller (Cormack), infant son of Mr. John G. Cormack, aged nine months.
McKinnon—Died, on Thursday morning, 5th Feb., Angus McKinnon, 5th Concession Drummond, age illegible. Deceased was a native of Invernishire, Scotland and came to this part of the country in 1819 (?), one of the first settlers. (age may be 83 or 88?)
James—Died, in Drummond on 28th (?) Jan., Henry James aged 71 years.
Woodlands—Died, in New York on Jan., 30th, Mr. John Woodlands, formerly a resident of Perth, aged (63—or 83??) (Transcriber’s note: the city in which Mr. Woodlands died is illegible, it starts with a B and is very long.)
Shocking Occurrence—Young Woman Frozen to Death
An occurrence of a melancholy and somewhat shocking character took place in this vicinity in the past week, which calls for a close and scrutinizing examination by authorities and court officials. We will briefly narrate the details.
On Saturday morning last the body of a young woman named Elizabeth Murphy was found dead by the roadside in North Burgess, almost twelve miles from Perth, the unfortunate creature having apparently frozen to death. The story of the sad affair is something like this: It seems that she and her brother, Terence Murphy, came to Perth on Friday forenoon and started for their home again in Burgess in the evening—it is believed somewhat intoxicated. The next morning the body of the girl was found on the road, lifeless, with marks of violence about the face and head. Her brother professes total ignorance about what occurred before and after this had transpired, pleading an excess of intoxication, which deprived him of the power of observing what took place around him or in fact to himself, save in one thing—he has, he says, in indistinct recollection of the horses running away. To those who are charitable enough to take cognizance of this fact, only, and leave out other circumstances bearing on the case, the running away of the team may sufficiently account for the bruises that appeared on the body of the girl. But it appears that the brother was not so drunk as he endeavoured to make it appear. Parties giving evidence at the inquest swore that they saw him looking for his horses after they had run away, very far from being so far gone in his intoxication, as his testimony made it appear, and his own mother testified that when he got home, before commencing the search for the runaway animals, he was sober enough to make his own tea. Though this does not establish anything of itself, still it convicts him of falsifying his evidence and goes to prove at least an amount of cold-blooded indifference as to his sister’s fate after she was thrown out of the sleigh, which confounds our ideas of humanity and fraternal affection. It is possible that the change in humanity of not taking care of his sister instead of searching for his horses on that freezing night, when, by the best of evidence, he knew her to be injured, is all that will be brought home to Murphy. Still, it is an affair which demands investigation. On Sunday last, upon proper representation of the affair having been made, Dr. Howden, of Perth, Coroner, set out for the place and proceeded to hold an inquest on the remains. After hearing evidence of several witnesses knowing more or less the circumstances we have given above, indicating that Terence Murphy, himself, the jury, through their foreman, Mr. Patrick Dooher (?), returned the following verdict: The jury, upon oath find that the deceased came to death on the 6th Feb., through injury and exposure, the result of having been left on the road by her brother, Terence on the aforesaid night and the jury are further of the opinion that the said Terence Murphy was guilty of culpable negligence in not looking after the deceased, inasmuch as opportunity afforded and evidence shows that he was not incapable through intoxication. On the Wednesday following Coroner Howden issued a warrant for Murphy’s arrest in order that the case might go before the grand jury at the approaching Assizes and having been taken in charge by the constable is now in jail awaiting the final disposition of the suit.
Moffatt-Died, in Pembroke, on the (illegible date) inst., after a short illness, Mrs. A. Moffatt, widow of the late Alex Moffatt, aged 79. (?)
Pounder—Died, on the 15th inst., after a short illness borne with Christian resignation, John Pounder of Westmeath, aged 63 years. Deceased was a native of Enniscarthy (?), Co. Wexford, Ireland, and emigrated to Canada in 1820, where he moved to his late residence near Beechburg. His end was peace.
Dickson—Died, on Tues., 10th Feb., Catherine Briggs (Dickson), wife of Mr. William Dickson. (note, no age was given.)
Childerhorn—Died, in Stafford on Tues., the 17th Feb., Charlotte McDonald (Childerhorn), wife of Robert Childerhorn, postmaster, in the 76th year of her age, after a long and painful illness which she bore with Christian patience and resignation to the will of her divine Redeemer.
Robertson—Died, at Arnprior on 3rd Feb., Alexander Stuart (Robertson), son of Neil Robertson, aged 4 years and 3 months.
Bowland—Died, in Ramsay on the 25th (?) Feb., Sarah Steadman (Bowland), beloved wife of Hugh Bowland in the 44th year of her age.
Dana—Died, at Brockville, of paralysis, on the 1st inst., Alonzo R. Dana, in the (age illegible) year of his age. The deceased was a resident of Brockville for the long term of 45 years and filled the Civic offices of mayor and town councilor on different occasions.
Shaw—Died, in Drummond on the 3rd March, Elizabeth Shaw, wife of Mr. James Shaw, aged 27 years.
Burrows—Died, on the 15th (?) of Feb., at the residence of her nephew of the Township of Ross, Jane Burrows, of Lanark, in the 83rd year of her age.
McFarlane—Died, suddenly at his own residence, on the 25th (?) of Feb., Donald McFarlane, in the 74th year of his age.
McDonald—Died, on Thursday morning, 2nd April, John McDonald, Scotch Line, Burgess, aged 70. The funeral will take place at 10:00 tomorrow (Saturday) to the old burying ground, Perth.
Campbell—Died, on Sunday, 22nd March, George G. (?) Campbell, son of the late Patrick Campbell, Bathurst, aged 45 years.
Herbert—Died, at his father’s residence, Drummond, 11th March, Duncan Herbert, aged 17 years.
Mrs. Walker, widow of the late John Walker, mason, died suddenly at her residence, Perth, from the bursting of a blood vessel, yesterday morning.
LaBelle—Died, at Watson’s Corners, Dalhousie, on the 22nd March, Mr. Joseph LaBelle, in the 64th (or 84th?) year of his age.
McFarlane—Died, in Montreal, on the 5th (or 8th?) March, by the bursting of a blood vessel, Mrs. Janet McFarlane, aged 74 years.
Richards—Died, in Ramsay, on the 16th ult., Wm. Henry (Richards), infant son of the late William H. Richards of Bathurst.
Richards—Died, at her father’s residence, Ramsay, Sarah Ellen James (Richards), widow of the late William H. Richards of Bathurst. (no age was given.)
White—Died, at Smith’s Falls, on 2nd April, Clarence Herbert (White), infant son of the Rev. G. W. White, B.A., age one month and 19 days.
Rutherford—Died, in Perth, on Tuesday, 7th inst., William Rutherford, in the 85th (?) year of his age. Deceased was a native of Scotland, and emigrated from the neighborhood of Dunlee (?) in 1815 with the early Perth settlers. He was appointed an elder of the First Presbyterian Church in Perth under the pastorate of the late Rev. Wm. Bell, which office he also held under the Rev. Thomas Wilson and Rev. Dr. Bain. He was exemplary in his conduct and much respected by all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance.
Riddell—Died, at Perth, on Tuesday evening, 28th April, James Carick Riddell, eldest son of John Riddell, age 18 (or 15?) years. The funeral will be held today (Fri) at 3:00 from his father’s residence on Herriot Street to Elmwood Cemetery.
Duffield—Died, at the residence of Mr. H. J. Duffield, Perth, on Sat., 25th April, John G. Duffield, aged 32 years.
Maskill—Died, at Perth, on the 25th inst., Francis (Maskill), son of Mr. Francis Maskill, aged 4 months.
Power—Died, in Drummond, on the 27th inst., of inflammation of the lungs, Margaret (Power), second daughter of Mr. Robert Power, aged 19 (?) years.
Warren—Died, at Wilberforce, on the 27th inst., suddenly, Mr. Thomas Warren, in the 73rd year of his age. He was one of the old pioneers of the Township of Ramsay.
Rorison—Died, at Carleton Place, on the 22nd inst., John Rorison, aged 42 years.
Lappin—Died, at Perth, on the 27th (?) inst., John Hugh (Lappin), infant son of Mr. Michael Lappin, aged 4 years and 2 months.
Fleming—Died, at her residence, 2nd Line Lanark, on the 27th inst., Helen (Fleming), relict of Robert Fleming, in her 89th year. Deceased was born in Linlithgow (?) Scotland and was one of Lanark’s earliest settlers. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church in connection with the Church of Scotland and died in the full hope of entering the glory of a future state.
Keefer—Died, at Belleville, on Monday, 4th May, Maggie M. (Keefer), only child of George A. Keefer, C. E.., aged 1 year and 6 (or 8?) months.
Keyes—Died, on Sunday, 3rd May, at the residence of her son-in-law, Mr. Simon Livingstone, North Elmsley, Mrs. Helen Keyes of Bathurst, aged 76 years.
Cavanagh—Died, on Wed., 13th (?) May, at the residence of his son, Mr. Benjamin Cavanagh, Drummond, Mr. William Cavanagh, aged 96 (?) years. He was a native of Wexford, Ireland. Deceased was one of the pioneer settlers of the township. At the age of 21 he fought on the Royalist side in the Irish Rebellion of 1793 (?).
Walker—Died, at his residence, Perth, on Monday, 1st June, of remittent bilious (?) fever, after 4 days illness, Mr. George Lochart Walker, of the firm G. L. Walker & Bros., proprietors of the Perth Courier, age 35 years.
Meighen—Died, on Saturday evening, May 30th, Arthur Meighen, Esq., merchant, this town, in the 47th year of his age.
Thom—Died, in Ramsay, on the 31st May, Christina (Thom), wife of Mr. James Thom, age 33.
Teskey—Died at Appleton, at the residence of her uncle, Albert Teskey, Esq., on Wednesday, 27th inst, Christina Alberta Teskey, aged 24 years.
Dickson—Died, at Cedar Hill, Pakenham, on Thursday, 11th inst., Wm. Miner (Dickson), third son of Ramsal (?) Dickson, Esq., aged 10 years.
Nichols—Died, at Carleton Place, on the 23rd inst., Ellen (Nichols), wife of Mr. Abner Nichols, aged 23 (?) years.
The demise of the late G. L. Walker was sudden and except to his medical attendants, unexpected. The reaper death has been busy amongst us hear and there the hoary (unreadable word) have been gathered into the garner and on all sides those scarcely matured have fallen beneath his sickle. There is a voice of deep lamentation, of wailing, and mourning for the departed, for where the pale horse has trodden, man droops, fails and dies. The subject of our present obituary, George L. Walker, Esq., proprietor of this journal, died of dynamic fever on the morning of Monday last, at twenty minutes past 6:00. This announcement will fall on the ears or be read with startling effect by the many who knew him in boyhood, in youth, and in the ripe years of his manhood. Four days previously, in apparent good health, Mr. Walker was stricken with a malignant fever, destroying the life of his blood, and steadily gaining the ascendancy in the face of the utmost medical efforts to stay its fatal tendency, but inexorable as fate itself, it marched on unsubdued, terminating the unequal struggle by asserting its mortal prerogative. The deceased journalist succeeded Mr. Charles Rice, clerk of the Superior Court, as proprietor of this paper in 1863. Uniform success marked his career in this capacity and, indeed, it is no assumption to say that his efforts in a great measure have been conducive to making it the leading weekly newspaper in the valley of the Ottawa. Mr. Walker was born of Scottish parentage and at the time of his death was in his 35th year. Throughout the comparatively short period he lived as a public journalist he constantly adhered to the fortunes of the Reform Party, strenuously exercising his individual influence and that of his journal in support of that party, and in this character he waged war with the Conservative element here. Admitting of no compromise in this particular, his private intercourse with all parties, creeds, and denominations were characterized by a natural kindness of disposition which was for him good opinions and friendship even with those who opposed him on principle. He ever received reproof good naturedly, choosing to act rather on the maxim that a soft answer turneth away wrath than seek refuge in bitter invective. Mr. Walker was also a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity and individually connected with the lodge of this town. As a personal friend of the writer, we attached to his friendship and other exchange of friendly relations and will ever entertain the sincerest affection of his memory. Deeply are our sympathies aroused for his bereaved family—for the sorrowing widow bowed down by the irreparable loss of her helpmate and for the orphans ruthlessly deprived of their natural protector. Comparatively young in years, our friend has gone the way of all the earth, summoned into a sinless and deathless world on the boundaries of which we are all straying. His premature recall, preceded by its sharp decisive onset of the last enemy, reads us an impressive lesson of the unstableness of all things earthly and should remind his living associates and everyone to be ready for the uncertain moment when we will be summoned to sum up our account with time. Mankind are not infallible. Each one of us has our shortcomings and peculiarities and is subject to the weaknesses inherited with the fall of our first parents yet we venture to say few have passed to their rest from hence who will be more respected, more sincerely regretted or over whose remains a true expression of sympathy will be recorded than George L. Walker. Peace to his ashes! May he rest in holy tranquil slumber!
Halpenny—Died, in the township of Lanark on the 8th last, Jane (Halpenny), wife of Isaac Halpenny, Esq., age 42.
Wilson—Died, on the 21st April, Mr. Daniel Wilson, Lanark Township, aged 72 years.
McMillan—Died, on the 21st May, at the residence of her son-in-law, John Brownlee, Watson’s Corners, Jane Hogg (McMillan), relict of the late James McMillan, Dalhousie, aged 72 years.
Layden—Died, on Friday, 12th June, Mary Jane (Layden), infant daughter of James Layden, Perth, aged 10 months and 10 days.
Stokes—Died, at his residence, Sarnia, 18th ult., John Stokes, formerly of the Township of N. Sherbrooke, Co. Lanark, in his 79th year.
Mortimer—Died at Perth on the 29th June, of sunstroke, Ethelburt (Mortimer), son of Mr. Mortimer, school teacher, aged 3 years and 6 months.
McDonald—Died, on Wed., 1st July, of croup and inflammation of the lungs, Donald W. H. McDonald, youngest son of Professor McDonald, aged 3 years and 6 months.
Wilson—Died, at Smith’s Falls on the 23rd inst., at the residence of her daughter, Miss Miriam (?) Wilson, Martha (Wilson), widow of the late Hastings (?) Wilson, in the 85th year of her age. Michigan and California papers please copy.
Campbell—Died, in Drummond, on the 14th June, Maggie M. (Campbell), third daughter of Mr. Alexander Campbell, aged 20 years.
Shall we meet beyond the river,
Where the surges cease to roll,
Where in all the night forever,
Sorrow n’er shall press the soul?
We’ll meet beyond the river
When our conflicts are all o’er,
And we’ll spend the blessed forever
On that bright celestial shore.
Slack—Died, suddenly at Montreal on Sat. morning, 4th ult., the Rev. George Slack, M.A., formerly Rural Dean of the District of Bedford, in the 64th year of his age. Deceased was the father of H. L. Slack, Esq., Inspector of Public Schools, County of Lanark.
Adams—Died, at Prescott on Saturday 5th July, Charlotte McCormick (Adams), wife of W. F. Adams, formerly of Glen Tay, aged 47 years.
Baxter—Died at Perth on Thursday morning, 9th July, Mr. John Baxter, lawyer, 45, native of Scotland.
Heveron—Died, suddenly, of enlargement of the heart, on Thursday morning, 9th July, Mr. James Heveron, Cooper, aged 47 years.
Woolfield—Died, on the 14th inst., Caroline Louise (Woolfield), only daughter of Charles Woolfield, Carleton Place, aged 9 months.
Dobbie—Died, at his residence, 2nd Line Lanark, on 11th July, James Dobbie, age illegible.
Nichols—Died, at Carleton Place on the 16th (?) inst., Alfred Ernest (Nichols), infant son of Mr. Abner Nichols, aged 3 months.
Kelly—Died, at her residence on the 15th inst., Caroline Village (Perth), from disease of the heart, Elizabeth (Kelly), wife of Mr. James Kelly, aged 47 years.
Cram—Died, at (place illegible) on June 23rd, Mr. Peter Cram, in the 48th year of his age, universally regretted by a large circle of friends and acquaintances.
Kerr—Died, at Lanark, on the 25th July, Agnes Rorison (Kerr), wife of Peter Kerr and eldest daughter of the late John Rorison, Ramsay, age illegible.
McCarthy—Died, of heart disease, July 6th, at the residence of his sister, Carleton Place, Richard McCarthy, formerly of Fitzroy Harbor, aged 78 (or 73?) years.
McLaren—Died, on the 15th July, Alexander John (McLaren), only son of Daniel McLaren, Esq., 4th Concession Beckwith, aged 10 years, 8 months and 20 days.
Wilson—Died, on Wed., 8th July, John Wilson, Esq., one of the oldest residents of the Township of Fitzroy. Mr. Wilson was born in the parish of Cleon (?), County Leitrum, Ireland, on the 19th (?) of June, 1803 and had therefore almost completed one half of his 72nd year. He emigrated to Canada in 1822, worked in Kitley two years, then removed to Fitzroy where he married the following year and has therefore been a resident of this township for half a century.
Buell—Died, at Perth, on the 13th inst., in the Communion of the Anglo-Catholic Church, in the confidence of a certain faith, and in the comfort of a reasonable, religious and holy hope, Mary Elizabeth Harris (Buell), wife of W.O. Buell, Esq., barrister &, aged 52(?) 62 (?) years.
Additional article in the same paper on Mrs. Buell:
It is with sincere regret we have to announce the death of Mrs. W. O. Buell which took place at the residence of her husband, this town, on Wednesday night last, from inflammation. The illness was not over one week’s duration and therefore came as quite a shock to a community in which she had lived, beloved and honored, from childhood. She was a daughter of the late Rev. Michael Harris, the first Episcopal clergyman who settled in this district
Craig—Died, at the London Road, Township of Sarnia, on the 9th inst., Alexander (Craig), fifth son of Mr. William Craig, formerly of the Township of Lanark, aged 24 years. His end was peace.
Graham—Died, at Carleton Place on the 16th inst., Mary Ann Catherine (Graham), infant daughter of W. K. R. Graham, barber, aged 5 (?) months.
Murphy—Died, at Carleton Place on the 30th July, Augustine M. Murphy, son of James L. Murphy, aged 5 months and 7 (or 9?) days.
Murphy—Died, at Carleton Place on the 4th August, Francis P. Murphy, son of James L. Murphy, aged 5 months and 12 days.
Campbell—Died, on the 15th inst., Alexander Peter James (Campbell), son of Archibald Campbell, Esq., Beckwith, aged 3 years and 4 months.
Mitchell—Died, on the 15th inst., of croup and bronchitis after four days illness, Walter Kidmond (Mitchell), youngest son of Mr. S.E. Mitchell, aged 2 years and 3 months.
Harris—Died, at his residence, Hamilton, on Tuesday August 28, T. B. Harris, Grand Secretary of the Order of Free Masonry in Canada.
Stephenson—Died, in the Township of Nepean, on the 18th (13th?) inst., Sarah (Stevenson), second daughter of Archibald Stevenson, Esq.
Lister—Died, at Almonte on the 29th (?) Aug., Louisa Harriett (Lister), infant daughter of F.A. Wainwright Lister, Merchants’ Bank Of Canada, age one year and four days.
Leckie—Died, at the residence of his son-in-law, Mr. John Jackson, Township of Moore, Co. of Lambden, on the 15th (or 16th?) inst., Mr. John Leckie, aged 95 (?) years. Deceased was a native of County Armagh, Ireland, moved to Glasgow while young, and in 1821 emigrated to the Township of Dalhousie where he endured the severe hardships of the pioneer settlers. He left a family of 8 (?) sons and daughters, 65 grandchildren and 100 great grandchildren.
Steele—Died, at Smith’s Falls on 30th Aug., the infant daughter of Mr. George Steele, aged one week.
Gifford—Died, on Tuesday night, 8th Sept., Henrietta (Gifford), infant daughter of Mr. C. H. Gifford, tailor, Perth, aged 11 months and 25 (?) days.
Fisher—Died, on Sat., 30th Aug., at the Rectory, Franktown, Frances Ann May (Fisher), daughter of A. Fisher, aged 3 months and 24 days.
Armstrong—Died, at Pike Falls, on Thurs., 27th Aug., Mr. Kennedy Armstrong, aged 39 (or 35?) years.
Newsome—Died, at Buffalo, on Aug. 31st of pneumonia and haemorrhage of the bowels, Thomas (Newsome), third son of Mr. George Newsome, of Kilmarnock, in the 28th (?) year of his age.
McPhail—Died, on the 29th ult., Hector McPhail, youngest son of Mr. Donald McPhail, Ramsay, aged 3 years.
Moffatt—Died on the 11th Aug., at the residence of his grandfather (Mr. Wm. Leckie of Ramsay), Christie James (Moffatt), infant son of Mr. James Moffatt, Jr.,
McMaster—Died, suddenly from apoplexy, on Friday, 4th Sept. Mr. Herbert McMaster, in the 50th (note: not at all sure of the age, hard to read) year if his age. The funeral service was solemnized in St. James Church, and was attended by a large concourse of citizens. Appropriate music was played by the Perth Brass Band on the way to the burial ground. The widowed mother has the sympathy of the entire community, this being the third member of her family being cut off – truly verifying the beautiful language of the Church of England Burial Office: “In the midst of life, we are in death.”
Stewart—Died in Drummond on Tuesday Sept. 8th, Ebeneezer (Stewart), youngest son of Rev. J. Stewart, aged 14 years.
Ross—Died, at the Manse, Beckwith, on the 14th inst., Janet Addie (Ross), only daughter of Rev. Wm. Ross, M.A., 2 months and 14 days.
Aspden—Died, on the 18th (?) inst., John H. (Aspden), youngest son of John and Sarah Ann Aspden, London, Ontario, aged 11 months.
Bell—Died, on Tuesday, 29th Sept. at her residence in the Township of Bathurst, Mrs. Ann Bell, relict of the late Lieut. Christopher Bell, at the advance aged of 81 years and 4 months.
Couch—Died, on the 27th ult., Henry Couch of N. Elmsley, age 24.
O’Neill—Died, at the Township of Plimpton, on the 20th ult., Mr. Neil O’Neill, formerly of the Township of Dalhousie, Co. of Lanark, aged (either 32 or 82).
McEwen—Died, at Perth, on Tuesday, 6th inst., Duncan (McEwen), son of Mrs. McEwen, age (illegible).
This week we have to chronicle the death of Mr. Francis Ballantyne of Kitley on Thursday, 24th ult., in the 79th year of his age. Mr. Ballantyne came to this country from New Castleton, Roxburghshire (?), Scotland, in the year (1840?—not clear) and settled in Kitley, where he has resided ever since. The Borderland has long been famous production of warm-hearted, clear-headed, intelligent Scotsmen and Mr. Ballantyne was one of the best type. Smith’s Falls Times.
Smith—Died, at Lanark, on Sat., 20th inst., the infant son of Mr. James Smith, baker.
Ephraim Patterson was born in Perth, Lanark County, Ontario, in 1826, and was consequently in his 66th year at his death. His father came to this country in 1814. He was connected with the 37th Regiment of Foot and took part in the war between Canada and the United States which started in 1812. Young Patterson received his early education at Perth, and afterwards studied Theology under Dr. Bethune, late Bishop of Toronto, at the Diocesan Theological College, Cobourg. In 1849, while in attendance at this school, he was successful in carrying off the Kent Testimonial prize. The same year he was raised to the Deaconate by Bishop Strachan and was appointed Curate of Cobourg. In 1850 he was ordained a Priest and entered the Mission Field at Portsmouth and Wolfe Island, Frontenac County. In 1851 he was transferred to the pastorate of St. James, Stratford. He has been the incumbent here ever since. He was afterwards made Rural Dean of the County of Perth by Bishop Hellmuth, and in 1887 was appointed Canon of the Diocesan Cathedral of London to succeed the late Rev. Dr. Townley. Until about seventeen years ago he conducted the entire work of the Parish unaided. Then for a period of about four years he had the assistance of Rev. Mr. Des Brisay, now of Strathroy, and of Rev. Mr. Curran. After Mr. Curran left, Mr. Patterson was again alone and remained so until the appointment of Rev. Mr. Ker in 1888. Mr. Patterson was married in 1852 to Jane Wauchope, youngest daughter of Donald MacKenzie, Esq., of Ottawa. Their family consists of five daughters and two sons, as follows: Mrs. Carver, Colpoys; Mrs. J. R. Boag, Buffalo; Mrs. (Rev) W. H. Battersby, Delhi; Misses Mina and Maud, and Messrs Harry and George at home. Canon Patterson was a gentleman of fine culture and profound erudition. His style was singularly pure and his sermons were models of perfect English. He was a graceful and impressive speaker and an earnest Christian worker. He was always deeply interested in educational maters and was for many years Chairman of the old Grammar School board, and was a member of the County Board of Public Instruction for granting teachers' certificates. He was also Public School Inspector for Stratford up till 1872, when he resigned. As a man he was greatly beloved by his congregation and highly esteemed by the members of all the other denominations with whom he was acquainted. He was a student all his life and maintained the industrious habits of a student."
Perth Courier, April 27, 1894
Death of Mr. Charles Patterson--The Carleton Place papers contain notices of the death of Mr. Charles Patterson, once of this town, late of Carleton Place, at the age of 79 years. The deceased was born in Perth, his father being a Scotchman, his mother English, and was a brother of our townsman, Mr. James Patterson, bailiff. Some years ago he removed to Carleton Place, residing with his son William, and although of singularly robust constitution and general good health, was last year attacked by cancer in the cheek, which finally carried him off. He was one of the best known characters in Perth, and was prominent both in linguistic attack and repartee. He leaves a wife and six sons and two daughters. The sons are George and Charles at St. Catherines, William at Carleton Place, Albert and Richard in Cleveland, and Robert in Calgary. The daughters are Mrs. Robert Cavanagh and Mrs. Francis in Wisconsin.
Mrs. James ( Breseya Jane Pounder) Patterson This lady, after a severe illness, and an operation in the Ottawa hospital, passed away in that city on Monday, at the age of 75 years. The maiden name of the deceased was Breseya Jane Pounder, and she was born in the township of Bathurst, her father being a native of Enniscorthy, county Wexford, Ireland and one of the pioneer settlers of Bathurst. Deceased was married to Mr. James Patterson, of this town, now bailiff, in the year 1845, and a large family and husband survive the mother and wife. The eldest son, George, barrister, and deputy Attorney-General of Manitoba, lives in Winnipeg, and was unable to get home to the funeral; and the second son, Manasses, was unfortunately away on a mineral-prospecting tour in the Nipissing region, and neither telegram nor telephone could reach him. The rest of the family were present at the funeral, which took place to Elmwood cemetery on Wednesday. Deceased was of a quiet, unobtrusive nature, and was greatly esteemed by her acquaintances.
Perth Courier February 1, 1901
Mrs. Andrew Allan--After some months' illness, from dropsy and the weight of years, Mrs. Andrew (Janet Patterson) Allan, of Balderson, departed this life on Wednesday night, 23rd January, at the age of 83 years. Deceased was born in Brockville in 1836, her maiden name being Janet Patterson, and she was a sister of Mr. James Patterson of this town. Her father, an old soldier in the British Army, was present at the Battle of Waterloo, and came to Canada to settle, staying for a little time at Brockville on his way to Bathurst, in this county. In 1848 deceased was married by the Rev. Michael Harrin, Anglican minister, Perth, to Mr. Andrew Allan of Balderson (Drummond) who with five children, survive: Ann (Mrs. Breese), Eleanor, William, George and Norman. The funeral took place to Elmwood Cemetery, Perth, on Friday. Rev. J.B. McInraith, Presbyterian pastor, conducting the services.
Perth, Courier, October 17, 1902
In the population of Perth are enrolled a number of its lifelong residents, whose allotted time has been run; but one by one the palsied hand of Death has marked them and is taking back the breath given when the Town of Perth could not look far into the township for the dense growth of bush that then was. Last week was announced the death of Captain Bell and Mr. Thomas Oliver and the serious illness of Mr. James Patterson; while in this issue of the courier is chronicled the passing of the latter gentleman. The news of Mr. Patterson's sickness came as a great surprise, as when last seen on the streets, on Friday, October 3, he was enjoying his usual good health. On that afternoon the deceased went out partridge hunting, and in the quest of his sport tramped through some marshy bogs. A cold developed, which later changed to acute appendicitis, causing alarm in the family circle who had been summoned to their father's bedside. Mr. Patterson fought his attack of illness with much courage and resolution, but his constitution, enfeebled with a work of four-score years, could not withstand the malady and gave way on Monday morning. Mr. Patterson had always enjoyed the best of health, and saving an attack of typhoid fever some thirty years ago had never had a day's illness until the disease which took him off. In the passing of Mr. James Patterson who was the last of a large family, there is lost to this town one of its oldest pioneers and most loyal residents. Perhaps there was no figure on the streets so well known and revered as that of the gentleman who is publicly mourned this week. Deceased was born on the Patterson homestead in Bathurst in 1819, and was consequently in the eighty-fourth year of his age. His father was George Patterson, of Perth, Scotland, and his mother, Ann Marigold, of London, England. George Patterson was born in the Scottish town after which this town is named and took to soldiering. He joined the famous 52nd Foot, whose deeds in valour no other regiment could surpass, and was present with the Duke of Wellington in his final struggle with Napoleon. At Quatre Bras, a preliminary duel to the great fight, the 52nd was engaged, while at Waterloo they were held as a reserve. With the protocols of peace affixed, the 52nd returned to it headquarters and George Patterson received his discharge. Marrying, he decided to settle in Canada, and in 1816 arrived to take up the pioneer's burden. He took up his land in Bathurst on the outskirts of Perth, then a trading post; and shortly afterwards moved into the town and commenced a shoemaker trade, which he conducted until his death in 1856. When George Patterson took up his settler's land in Bathurst he received a quantity of supplies which were given out by the government in 1817, some of which, notably a saw, is the valued relict of the family today. In their possession also, is a sword which did duty in Wellington's last campaign, and which is valued for its antiqueness. The subject of this sketch, as was said before, was born in the immediate vicinity of Perth and grew up with the town. In early life he took up his residence here and served his apprenticeship as a carpenter. He was very successful in his trade, and his craft and workmanship won him a business that was remarkable. In 1863 deceased took a trip to the Caribou regions of the west but Perth was good enough for him. He had often laughingly said that he took away the earnings of years and came back fifty cents in debt. In 1864 Mr. Patterson received the appointment of Bailiff from the late Judge Malloch, which office he faithfully discharged until two years ago when he resigned. In 1845, he took a wife, Jane Pounder of Perth, who died three years ago. As a result of this union, two sons and seven daughters were born, one being dead: George, Attorney-General of Winnipeg; Manasseh, of Almonte; Mrs. William Farmer, Arnprior; Mrs. R. B. Whyte, Ottawa; Mrs. Brown, Innisfail, Alberta; Mrs. Fyfe, North Bay; Mrs. Bowland, Clayton, and Mrs. Robson, of Ottawa. All were present at the time of their father's death with the exception of the two who live in the West. The funeral was held Tuesday afternoon from the residence of Mr. James Patterson, Drummond and D'Arcy Streets, to the Elmwood Cemetery, the services being conducted by the Rev. D. Currie. The pallbearers were Messrs. James Allan, G.A. Consitt, H. B. Wright, J.F. Kennedy, Samuel Farmer and R. Jamieson.
Mrs. Patterson (Jane Lochead), relict of Charles Patterson, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. R. Cavanagh, last Sunday in her 88th year. Death came in Nature's beautifully calm and placid manner--as a tree dies--a slow and invisible decay. Mrs. Patterson was born in Glasgow, and sailed as a child with her family, who settled in Dalhousie. After her marriage, 65 years ago, she lived in Perth for 35 years and for the last thirty in Carleton Place Mrs. Patterson always lived a quiet retired life; and for many years enjoyed the serenity of old age within the warm wings of her daughter's home. The children living are Mrs. Cavanagh, William and Charles here, George in New York, Albert in Cleveland, Richard in the Philippines, Mrs Clarence in Albany, the State of Wisconsin. (transcribers note: this last is an error, Liza Patterson had married George Francis, it should have read Mrs. Francis in Albany, the State of Wisconsin). Robert died in Calgary in 1895. The funeral took place on Tuesday to the 8th line cemetery in Ramsay and was very largely attended. Service was conducted at the house by the Rev. Mr. Elliot. The pall bearers were Messrs. Geo. Warren, William Simpson, William and Charles Patterson, Lachlin McCallum and William Pattie--Carleton Place Central Canadian.
Mr. William Patterson, of Carleton Place, died in that town on the 18th Dec., at the age of 68 years. Deceased was born in Perth, son of the late Charles Patterson, in earlier days one of the best known residents of this town. When a young man deceased started a furniture and undertaking business in Carleton Place, which he continued until his death, which was caused by blood poisoning following a broken ankle from a fall on the icy pavement. He leaves a wife, four sons and two daughters. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity and was an out-and-out Liberal. He was a nephew of the late Mr. James Patterson of this town and cousin of Mr. George Patterson, deputy attorney general of Manitoba. The Pattersons were descended on the father's side from one of Wellington's Peninsular and Waterloo veterans, Private Patterson, a Scotch soldier in the 52nd Regiment. (Transcriber's note: this is an error, George Patterson was in the 37th Regiment.) His wife was English and both lived in Perth, where they died.
Died, at Arnprior, on Wednesday, November 10, 1909, Mary Ann (Patterson) Farmer, daughter of the late James Patterson of Perth and wife of Wm. Farmer of Arnprior. Many years ago, Miss Mary Ann Patterson left the home of her parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. James Patterson as the bride of Mr. William Farmer to live with him in Arnprior where her young husband had established a boot and shoe business. On Wednesday the youthful bride of those days, the mother of a grown-up family now, was taken away by death and will be buried in Arnprior today, Friday. Mr. Charles A. Farmer, cousin of the bereaved husband will attend the funeral.
The Perth Courier Perth, Ontario, Friday April 21st, 1922
Cavanagh--The following is from the Carleton Place Herald of last week: "After a brave fight of several weeks Mrs. Robt. (Martha Patterson) Cavanagh passed away on Tuesday, April 6th at her home on Bell street, three months after her husband. Mrs. Cavanagh was born in Perth, her maiden name being Martha Patterson, a daughter of the late Charles Patterson. When quite young she came with her parents to Carleton Place and as a young woman met and married Joseph Wilson, a son of the late Dr. Wilson. Mr. Wilson died about 1887, leaving a son and two daughters--Dr. W.Wilson of Edmonton, Mrs. J. A. Goth of Regina and Miss Evelyn Wilson of Stamford, Conn., all of whom were home for the last days with their mother. Some years after her husband's death Mrs. Wilson married Mr. Robert Cavanagh, who predeceased her by only a few months. Mrs. Cavanagh was very widely known and highly esteemed. Her life had been a very active one, filled with many acts of kindness and good deeds and her demise is deeply lamented by a large circle of friends.
Taken from the Hamilton, Ontario Newspaper The Hamilton Spectator, August, 1925
EPHRAIM GEORGE PATTERSON, WELL KNOWN HERE
Former Teacher in Mathematics in High School
Held High Official Offices in Manitoba
Winnipeg, August 25--George Patterson, K. C.., 79 years of age, who died in Winnipeg, was referee and master of the court of King's bench, Winnipeg and for many years the deputy attorney-general of Manitoba. He had been ill a short time. Deceased was born in Perth, Ontario, where his father, James Patterson, was interested in mining. His grandfather, George Patterson, veteran of Wellington's armies in Spain and at Waterloo, came to Canada about 1820 and settled in Lanark County.
Mr. Patterson was educated at the public and high schools of Perth, Ontario. He was graduated from Toronto University, winning the gold medal in mathematics. He taught mathematics for some years in Hamilton, before studying law. For several years he was examiner in mathematics at Toronto University and later came west to the University of Manitoba. He was a member of the University Company of the Queen's Own Rifles, and, having taken a lieutenant's course at the Royal Military College, Kingston, he took part in the fight at Ridgeway with the Fenians in 1866, when he was wounded and for which he received the Fenian raid medal.
When called to the bar of Ontario, in 1876, Mr. Patterson was mathematical master in the Hamilton Collegiate Institute. He practiced law in Hamilton until 1882, when he came to Manitoba, where he practiced for a number of years, being a partner of the present lieutenant-governor, Sir James Aikens. Appointed deputy attorney-general in 1898, he held that position until his appointment as referee and master of the court of King's bench.
Mr. Patterson was one of the original members of St. Luke's Anglican Church and he had acted as both rector's and people's warden.
He was twice married, his first wife being Annie Gertrude Baker, daughter of the late Hugh C. Baker of Hamilton, Ontario. She died in 1896. He married, some years later, Viola Geddes, daughter of the late Forbes Geddes, of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Three children of the first marriage and one of the second survive, with his widow. Surviving children are: Harold D. Patterson, Victoria, B.C,; Mrs. Amy Edwards, Winnipeg; Mrs. Leslie Ford, Perth, Australia, and George D. Patterson of Winnipeg.
George Ephraim Patterson, of the firm Patterson & Corbin, electric and horse car builders, St. Catharines, was born in the town of Perth, Lanark County, Ontario September 16, 1838. His parents were Charles and Jane Patterson. The former was a native of Lanark and the latter, whose maiden name was Lougheed, was born at The Shaws, near Glasgow, Scotland. Charles Patterson, who was a boot and shoe manufacturer, moved to Perth early in the "thirties" and while there met and married Miss Lougheed. The result of this union was a family of eight children--six sons and two daughters--of whom the subject of our sketch is the eldest. George E. Patterson attended the public schools in his native place until he was about eighteen years of age, when he apprenticed himself to a carriage-maker, completing his apprenticeship in St. Catharines, whither he removed in 1857. and where he has since resided. In 1874, he entered into partnership with William Corbin under the name and style of Patterson & Corbin, carriage-makers, and the connection thus established still remains unbroken. The firm continued in the same line of business until 1890, when the carriage-making was abandoned and the firm took up a new industry, that of car building, which they have since successfully carried on. Their house was the first to build electric cars in Canada, and, so far, the only ones turned out in the Dominion have been from the firm's works. The market is steadily growing for this enterprising branch of manufacture, and already the firm has made large shipments of cars as far west as Vancouver, B.C., and there is every prospect that the industry will in the near future develop into one of the most important in the country. In business circles, Mr. Patterson has the well-earned reputation of being a thoroughly upright and honest man, and he possesses the confidence of all with whom he has dealings. In public matters he also stands well among his fellow-citizens. He was elected to the city council in 1879, and, with the exception of a retirement of one year, he sat continuously as alderman until the close of 1888. In educational affairs he takes an especial interest, and for the past fifteen years has been a member of the school board, in which capacity he is a hard worker and does excellent service. His military record, though not extensive, is such as to stamp him a loyal and patriotic citizen. In 1860, the year of the Prince of Wales' visit to Canada, he joined the St. Catharines artillery (an independent company) under the late Henry Mittleberger, the corps being afterwards officially recognized at the time of the Trent affair, when its services were placed at the disposal of the government. Again in 1866, the year of the Fenian raids, the company was at Fort Erie attached to the royal artillery, and subsequently it was merged into the Welland field battery. Of late years, Mr. Patterson's business has, however, prevented his giving attention to military affairs. In matters designed to benefit the city, he has always lent a cheerful aid, and in this connection it may be stated that he was an active promoter of the electric street railway and of the Niagara central; in both enterprises he was a stockholder. In the sphere of benevolent societies he is well-known, being a member of the Masonic fraternity, the Independent Order of Oddfellows, Ancient Order of United Workmen, the Canadian Order of Home Circles, and the Royal Arcanum. In politics he was for many years a member of the Reform party, but recently he has been at variance with his political friends on their trade policy, and has strongly supported protection to native industry as opposed to commercial union or unrestricted reciprocity. In religion, he is a Protestant, being a member of the First Presbyterian Church. In February, 1863, he married Allie Anne, daughter of James Harris, of St. Catharines. by this union he has had issue nine children--six sons and three daughters--of whom all but three sons are still living. Personally, Mr. Patterson is a man of the most genial disposition, affable, courteous and generous, and held in high esteem by all who have the pleasure of his acquaintance.
BUILDER OF FIRST ELECTRIC CAR BORNE BY RAIL TO GRAVE
Extraordinary Tribune Paid to Late George E. Patterson
Highly Honored by Odd Fellows
Annual Decoration Day Ceremony Follows the Funeral Obsequies
The citizens of St. Catharines yesterday in spite of the rainy weather turned out in large numbers to pay their final respects to George E. Patterson, a former fellow citizen, who has made his name famous as builder of the first electric street car in America. The cars ran on the local line built by the late Dr. Ollie between St. Catharines and Thorold.
While the funeral was in the nature of a public tribune to one who was esteemed and honored by those who knew him years ago, there was a double honor in the Independent Oddfellows buried one of the oldest members of the Order in Canada. George Patterson joined Union Lodge, N. 16, of this city over 61 years ago and had remained affiliated with it ever since. He was also a member of St. George's Masonic Lodge of this city for many years.
Mr. Patterson had attended First Presbyterian Church for over a quarter of a century and it was fitting that the pastor, Rev. J. A. Pue-Gilchrist, should conduct the burial services.
The casket arrived from Pasadena, California early in the morning, and was taken to McIntyre's undertaking rooms where in the chapel many viewed for the last time the well known features. Mr. Patterson had been one of the St. Catharines men on active service during the Fenian Raid of 1866 and in recognition of this a large Union Jack covered the casket. There were also many beautiful flowers from relatives and from friends and from Union and Empire Lodges, I.O.O.F., and St. George's Lodge, A.F. & A. M.
Some old time associates of the deceased were present at the services conducted by the Rev. Pue-Gilchrist at McIntyre's and took a last look at the face of their friend. The services were short and simple. The casket was then carried out to the waiting funeral car of the Canadian National Electric Railways and placed in position, while the St. Catharines Concert Band, under Gerald Saul, solemnly played the Dead March in Saul. Twenty-four senior Past Grands, twelve from Empire and Union Lodges each, acted as escort. Owing to the weather, the Niagara Falls, N.Y. Patriarchs Militant, were not present.
Headed by the Concert Band, the procession moved off up St. Paul Street, to slow time, the Oddfellows on foot, and many autos following. Street cars were provided for the Oddfellows at Thorold Road.
At the Victoria Lawn Cemetery, the Concert Band again led the procession as the casket was conveyed to the Patterson plot. The band played "Nearer My God to Thee" and Noble Grand William Overholtn of Union Lodge and Past Grand Allan Darragh, acting chaplain, of Empire Lodge, read the commitment services. Rev. Mr. Pue-Gilchrist conducted the religious services.
At the close, all the Oddfellows marched past the casket and placed their funeral badges of red and black and a sprig of evergreen, upon it. The red represented the Scarlet Degree, and the black the mourning for the dead brother.
The chief mourners were: E.G. Patterson, son of the deceased, and his three sons, from Petersboro. The honorary bearers were: Judge J. S. Campbell, J.D. Chaplain, M.P., E.C. Graves, M.P.P., Mayor Jacob Smith, Andrew Riddell and J. C. Haight, the latter representing the Canadian National Electric Railways. The active bearers were: Charles Chapman, F.W. Todd, N. J. M.. Lockhart, representing the Grand Lodge, I.O.O.F., W.S. Duffin, P. D.., D.H.G.., P. G.. George, E. Jones, and Frank E. Coy, who was a lifelong friend of Mr. Patterson.
Mrs. George (Eliza Patterson) Francis, was born in Perth, Ontario, Canada November 18, 1842 and passed away July 24, 1931 at the age of 88 years 8 months and 6 days. On July 13, 1860, Eliza Patterson was united in marriage to George Francis, who preceded her in death April 26, 1925. Five daughters and four sons were born to Mr. and Mrs. Francis, Jennie Murrey of Fairfax, California, Birdie Griffin, Emma Tilley, Nora Atherton and Jessie Partridge of Albany. The four sons are Charles of Albany, John B. and Arthur R. of Janesville, and Wilford P. of Fort Atkinson. In July, 1861, about a year after their marriage in Perth, Ontario, Mr. and Mrs. Francis came to Albany and this vicinity was their home the remaining years of their lives. Mrs. Francis was a woman of sterling character, a true Christian in conduct and service. She will be remembered and missed by her dear ones and a large circle of relatives and friends. She is survived by her five daughters and four sons, eighteen grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren. The funeral was held Sunday afternoon with the Rev. H. A. Erickson officiating and the interment was at Hillcrest cemetery. Thus briefly is recorded the life of one who lived nearly seventy years.
Posted: 10 April, 2003.