BUSINESS PEOPLE
Baldwin. James Mathias Biography: James Baldwin (1857 – ) m. 1879 Diana Green Claims: Homestead in 1882. Set up a store on his farm. He sold the store to T. J. Lawlor and worked for him for three years. In 1890 he came to Killarney where he was with George Lawrence in the implement business. 1891 he became secretary-treasurer for the Municipality of Turtle Mountain. In 1897 he opened a private bank. 1898 he became the first manager of the Union Bank. 1906, he became the first mayor. Owned race horses. Judge and starter at race tracks JAMES M. BALDWIN was born in Oxford County, Ontario, in 1857 and came to Manitou with his parents in 1879. That year he married Diana Green of Waterloo County. In 1882 he home- steaded NE 24-4-17 but showed his preference for other ways of earning a livelihood by setting up a store on his farm. He sold the store to T. J. Lawlor and worked for him for three years. In 1890 he came to Killarney where he was with George Lawrence in the implement business. In 1891 he became secretary-treasurer for the Municipality of Turtle Mountain at a salary of $600 a year. In 1897 he opened a private bank, saving many farmers from losing machinery to col- lectors by lending enough to tide them over. In 1898 he became the first manager of the Union Bank in Killarney. When Killarney was incorporated as a town in 1906, he became the first mayor. His great interest was horses. He owned race horses, The Babe, Henry H. and Peter Wilkes, and he was in demand far and wide as a judge and starter at race tracks. He was also known for his ability to doctor a horse, mixing his own salves and liniments. James and Diana Baldwin had two sons, Edward of Vancouver, British Columbia, and William of North Battleford, Saskatchewan. When the first crofters arrived at Killarney, they were met at the station by T. J. Lawlor and James M. Baldwin, the banker, and taken to tents, which had been set up for them. The Board had arranged that J. M. Baldwin would supply them with a small sum of money, and with this they bought from T. J. LawJor what food and furniture they needed, also poultry, a plough, and seed grain. P105 Horses from Killarney were entered in races far and wide throughout the province. J. M. Baldwin, the banker, was a recognized expert as starter or judge. Some of the horses that became famous were George Lawrence, who had the Massey agency. Lawrence later went into partnership with James M. Baldwin to handle machinery from several companies. Bird, Mr. Biography: Claims: Mr. Bird of Emerson opened the first hardware store. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p 93 / Reflections p. Burrows, George Biography: m. Jennie Scott Claims: Came from London, England, and took homesteads in the Plum Hollow district. He farmed until 1902 when he became a partner of George Winram in the implement business, and spent the rest of his life in Killarney. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. Burrows, George William Biography: (1869 - 1920) m. (1903) Jennie Lind Scott (1876 – 1964) Claims: Came from London, England, and took homesteads in the Plum Hollow district. He farmed until 1902 when he became a partner of George Winram in the implement business, and spent the rest of his life in Killarney. Probable Significance: Modest Source: Trails & Crossroads to Killarney p. 331 / Reflections p. Carson, W.J. Biography: (1875 -1963) . Married Effalena King Claims: He went to college 1903-1904 to study pharmacy and on his return bought out Richard Olver. He rented space at the back of the store to the Telephone Company and became the first manager. After serving some years on the Council, he was mayor from 1940-1943. Probable Significance: Modest Source: Trails & Crossroads to Killarney p. 358 / Reflections p. Highlights from Local Histories W. J. CARSON (1875-1963) was born in Napanee, Ontario, of Irish parents. He left school at an early age to toil long hours at heavy work for $3.00 a week. One day he saw a notice in a newspaper, "GO WEST, YOUNG MAN, AND GET RICH." The fare to Winnipeg was $10.00, so he sold his bicycle for $10.00, collected a debt of $3.00 and with a gift of $5.00 from his father set out. He was not favorably impressed by Winnipeg nor by the boarding house at which he spent the night, so he went to sit in the C.P.R. station while he wondered what to do. He was aroused from a nap by the train caller crying "Morden, Manitou, Pilot Mound, Crystal City, Killarney" and he remembered his father talking about the beautiful lakes of Killarney in Ireland. He rushed for the train. Following some difficulty with the conductor because he could not find his ticket, he was about to be put off the train when the brakeman called "Killarney, next stop!" After a depressing night in the hotel there for which he parted with one of his precious dollars, he set out to look for a job. There was no building going on; it was too early for harvesting. He tried several stores; none needed help. Finally he stood in front of one not yet open for the day. The proprietor, Reuben Cross, arrived and the young man put his case. Although Cross seemed impressed by the fact that the lad had studied book-keeping, he made no commitment. Next day there was a note at the hotel asking him to call in that evening and he had a job. He stayed in Killarney, to which he had come by chance, for over fifty years. Before long the name of the firm was Cross and Carson. In 1899 he went to work for Richard Olver in his drug store. In 1902 he married Effalena King. They had three children, Gwendolen (Mrs. Turner) of Carman, Wilhelmina, and Sidney. He went to college 1903-1904 to study pharmacy and on his return bought out Richard Olver. He rented space at the back of the store to the Telephone Company and became the first manager. After serving some years on the Council, he was mayor from 1940-1943. He retired to Scarborough, Ontario, in 1948. Coleman, William J. Biography: (1853-1926) Married Annie Berthman (1870-1951) Claims: On active service during the Saskatchewan Rebellion of 1885. After living for a time in Ninga, and on SE 33-2-15 which he bought from the railway, he moved to Killarney to manage the Leland Hotel. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p 221 / Reflections p. From the Local History Sources... WILLIAM J. COLEMAN (1853-1926) was on active service during the Saskatchewan Rebellion of 1885. After living for a time in Ninga, and on SE 33-2-15 which he bought from the railway, he moved to Killarney to manage the Leland Hotel. He married Annie Berthman (1870-1951) of Carman (formerly of Listowel, Ontario), and they lived in the hotel until 1903 when they moved into the house on Mountain Avenue. Cowan, William James  Biography: Ontario. (1866 – 1924) He married Addie Maxwell Gouldie on 11 January 1899. Claims: Farmer, businessman. Wakopa pioneer. Livery Barn. Town Council. Bought and sold horses. He also bred Clydesdale and Percheron horses Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p 222 / Reflections p. From the Local History Sources... Born in Prince Edward County, Ontario on 12 August 1866, son of James Cowan and Ellen Wilkins, he took up a homestead near Wakopa, Manitoba in 1882. He farmed until 1890 when he started a livery business and bought and sold horses. He also bred Clydesdale and Percheron horses. He served three terms as a councilor in the Rural Municipality of Turtle Mountain and two years on the council of the Town of Killarney. He married Addie Maxwell Gouldie on 11 January 1899. They had six children: Ruby Gladys Cowan, Sybil Cowan, James McIntosh Cowan (b 1905), Larson Cowan, John Cowan, and Glen Cowan. He was a member of the AF & AM (Killarney Lodge No. 50) and the COF. He died on 7 December 1924. Cross, Reuben Biography: d. 1941 m. Annie Armstrong (d. 1939) Claims: General Store in 1895 Probable Significance: Modest Source: Trails & Crossroads to Killarney p. 360 / Reflections p. Dufty, Norah Biography: Widow, sister in-law of Peter Duffy Claims: Opened a boarding house on the north-east shore of the Bay. When the railway came, her boarding house was moved to a spot back of the Grand Central Hotel. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 231 / Reflections p. Dufty, Peter Biography: Not married. Claims: Came in 1881. One of the first trustees of Oak Lake School and in 1884 was elected to the Council of Turtle Mountain Municipality. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 231 / Reflections p. From the Local History Sources... PETER DUFTY originally came from England to the United States where he was joined by his brother and his family. On the way to the Killarney district with his brother and his brother's wife, Norah, and four children, his brother died. Peter brought the family on and the widow opened a boarding house on the north-east shore of the Bay. When the railway came, her boarding house was moved to a spot back of the Grand Central Hotel. Peter Dufty filed for E 26-2-17 in 1881. He did not marry. He was one of the first trustees of Oak Lake School and in 1884 was elected to the Council of Turtle Mountain Municipality. Dunsford, James Biography: Claims: With Frank Simpson, managed Ogilvie Milling Co. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. Early, Jack Biography: Claims: Implement Dealer Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. Finnen, Alex Biography: m. 1886 Ann (1866- 1939) Claims: Came in 1881 to the Tisdale area. Probable Significance: Helped build the first frame house in the district. Peter Finnen and Byron Mason moved T. J. Lawlor's store to Killarney in 1884. Alex moved Killarney and shipped stock to Winnipeg. Source: Trails to Killarney p. 239 / Reflections p. Finnen, Peter Biography: (1854-1938) m. 1885 Agnes (1860-1940) Claims: Came in 1881 to the Tisdale area. Probable Significance: Helped build the first frame house in the district. Peter Finnen and Byron Mason moved T. J. Lawlor's store to Killarney in 1884. Alex moved Killarney and shipped stock to Winnipeg. Source: Trails to Killarney p. 238 / Reflections p. From the Local History Sources... PETER FINNEN (1854-1938) and ALEX FINNEN (1859- 1921) were born in Huntingdon, Quebec, the eldest sons in a family of nine. When they were quite young, their parents moved to Wingham, Ontario. In 1881 the young men came to the Tisdale area, Peter homesteading W 34 and Alex NE 34-3-16. When they walked to Deloraine to file their claims in April, 1881, one of the group, Tobias Gillespie, became so exhausted on the return trip that he could walk no farther. Peter Finnen carried him on his back the last half mile. Apparently life on the homestead was too strenuous for Gillespie; he did not complete his homestead duties. The Finnen brothers built a sod shack on the bank of the Pembina for their first shelter, but the next year they hauled lumber from a sawmill near Pelican Lake for a frame house which they built on Peter's land - the first house of its kind in the district. Their neighbour, Charles Fowler, had two daughters, Agnes and Ann. Peter married Agnes (1860-1940) in 1885, and Alex married Ann (1866-1939) the following year. North-east of their homesteads, the village of Tisdale was springing up in the hope that the railway would pass that way. When the southern route was chosen, most of the buildings were torn down or moved south, too. Peter Finnen and Byron Mason moved T. J. Lawlor's store to Killarney in 1884. P238 Alex moved to Killarney and shipped stock to Winnipeg. He and Ann had eight children, Peter Finnen built the first bridge across the Pelican Lake outlet in 1882. Gouldie, Alex Biography: (1852-1936) m. 1875, Martha McIntosh (1840- 1928). Claims: They came to Gretna, Manitoba, in 1885 and a year later he built the Grand Central Hotel in Killarney. After an expedition to the Klondike he settled on a farm, N 32-4-17. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. From the Local History Sources... ALEXANDER GOULDIE (1852-1936) came from London, England, and in Chicago in 1875 married Martha McIntosh (1840- 1928). They came to Gretna, Manitoba, in 1885 and a year later he built the Grand Central Hotel in Killarney. After an expedition to the Klondike he settled on a farm, N 32-4-17. Grant, S.G. Biography: Claims: Jeweller Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 341 / Reflections p.  High, Archie M. Biography: Claims: Owned lumber yard Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. Hoar, Thomas George Biography: (1864 – 1946) m. Clara Robbins (1875- 1955) Claims: He opened the first barber shop. By 1893 he had completed the Hoar Block on Main St. The main floor held the barbershop, which he ran for over forty years, and a billiard hall. He built another office building and six houses, and owned two farms, one in the Enterprise area which he managed for two years, and one in the Bannerman area on which his eldest daughter and her husband lived for eight years. Probable Significance: Medium Source: Trails & Crossroads to Killarney p. 364 / Reflections p. Kent, Fred Biography: (1886 – 1947) m. (1911) Annie Eccles (1886 – 1947) Claims: Came to Killarney in 1889. While still a boy he had one of the first fret saws in the com- munity, made for him by his grandfather out of a sewing machine. He made and sold picture puzzles, shelves, brackets, cabinets and chairs. He also became interested in making candy, a skill he later turned to good account in his business. He was of an inventive turn of mind, one of his inventions being a glass enclosed rack for holding large spools of lace. In 19l0 he bought Angus McQueen's grocery store, which he conducted until he retired in 1946. During World War I he attended Flying School in Chicago, and later assembled the first airplane ever seen in Killarney. In addition to running his store, he took a very active part in community affairs. He was secretary-treasurer of Holy Trinity Anglican Church and a member of the Brandon Diocesan Executive, secretary of the Rink Company, president of the People's Mutual, served on the "Board of Trade and the Town Council, was a Past Master of the Masonic Lodge, a member of the LO.O.F. and of the Elks Lodge. He was one of the founders of the Golf Club and acted as secretary for many years. He also took an active part in establishing the present Fair Grounds and Erin Park and in having waterworks installed in Killarney. Probable Significance: High Source: Trails & Crossroads to Killarney p. 345 / Reflections p. Kilpatrick, F. Biography: Claims: Operated a store 1886. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p.  Lawlor, T.J.  Biography: (1853 – 1937). Married Sarah Francis Brown in 1886. Claims: Arrived in 1882.Established a store in Tisdale. Travelling salesman for Thibaudeau Brothers. Moved to his store to Killarney when the railway chose that site. It was the first real building to be erected in Killarney. On January 3, 1886, the first mixed train brought a carload of merchandise and building material for his store. He visited Scotland in 1888 to encourage the organization to send some settlers to the Killarney area, one result was the Croifters settlement. He served as Killarney town auditor and, in 1904, was elected Mayor of Killarney. He was a member of the AF & AM (Killarney Lodge No. 50), and the IOOF. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p 108 / Reflections p.  From the Local History Sources... Thomas James Lawlor (1853-1937) General merchant, municipal official. Born at North Sydney, Nova Scotia on 12 December 1853, son of Daniel Lawlor and Agnes Crawford, he left school at the age of 14 years and engaged in the grocery and hardware business at Dartmouth. In 1876 he took a business course and, from 1878 to 1882 was engaged in general business at North Sydney. He came to Manitoba in 1882 and settled at Pelican Lake where he established a general store. From 1883 to 1885 he was a travelling salesman for Thibaudeau Brothers. In 1886 he established one of the first stores at Killarney. In 1886 he married Sarah Frances Brown, of North Sydney, Nova Scotia. They had seven children: George B. Lawlor (b 1887), James W. Lawlor (b 1889), Thomas Wilson Lawlor (b 1890), Agnes Crawford Lawlor (b 1892), Jessie B. Lawlor (b 1894), Frances I. Lawlor (b 1899) and Leonard Lawlor (b 1902). He served as Killarney town auditor and, in 1904, was elected Mayor of Killarney. He was a member of the AF & AM (Killarney Lodge No. 50), the IOOF, and the COF. He died at Killarney on 17 February 1937 There was great jubilation when the first work train reached Killarney in December, 1885. On January 3, 1886, the first mixed train brought a carload of merchandise and building material for T. J. Lawlor. When the news came that the railway was to follow the southern route, T. J. Lawlor had promptly arranged to have his store at Tisdale taken down and the lumber transported to Killarney. He went to Killarney, found out from the Land Commissioner where the railway station was to be placed, and located his lots on the southeast corner of Railway Street and Broadway. T. J. Lawlor's store was the first real building to be erected on the new townsite, Lawlor visited Scotland in 1888 to encourage the organization to send some settlers to the Killarney area, and his efforts were successful, one group being located in the Fairhall-Dunrea-Bella- field district later in the year. A solicitor, A. G. Barradaith, representing the Board, bought land from the Canada Northwest Land Company to which the C.P.R. had transferred over 2,000,000 acres in the west. When the first crofters arrived at Killarney, they were met at the station by T. J. Lawlor and James M. Baldwin, the banker, and taken to tents which had been set up for them. The Board had arranged that J. M. Baldwin would supply them with a small sum of money, and with this they bought from T. J. Lawlor what food and furniture they needed, also poultry, a plough, and seed grain. Hired wagons took them to their allotted quarter sec- tions on the odd-numbered sections purchased from the land com- pany. The crofters are listed as homesteaders in the Land Office records, and although they arrived in 1888, the date of entry in the Land Office records is March, 1890, for most of them. Lindsay, Jonathan  Biography: B. 1862. married Sarah Jane Sanders of Killarney, in February 1886. Claims: Homestead in 1882. Livery business 1892 – 96. From 1895 to 1905 he was a general agent for the Winnipeg firm of Frost & Wood Company. He was a bailiff for the county court of Killarney from 1892 to 1899 Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 94 / Reflections p. From the Local History Sources... Jonathan Lindsay Hotelier. Born near Port Huron, Michigan on 28 March 1862, son of George Lindsay and Elizabeth Hodgins, he came to Manitoba in August 1882 and took up farming south of Killarney, which he continued to operate throughout his career. From 1890 to 1895 he engaged in the implement and livery business. He was a bailiff for the county court of Killarney from 1892 to 1899. From 1895 to 1905 he was a general agent for the Winnipeg firm of Frost & Wood Company. In 1905 he went into partnership with R. H. Orr in ownership of the Palace Hotel at Deloraine. He married Sarah Jane Sanders of Killarney, in February 1886. They had three children: Harold E. Lindsay, May Lindsay, and Frank Linday. He was a member of the AF & AM (Killarney Lodge No. 50), and IOOF. McBurney, Thomas Biography: Claims: Massey Harris dealer Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 348 / Reflections p. McCalpin, James Henry Biography: m. 1882, Mary Elizabeth Lloyd Claims: Carpenter. Furniture and hardware business. Undertaker He also bought the farmland south of the Bay, part of which became the Demonstration Farm, later the fair grounds and race track. Gardener… Some of the trees he planted are still growing on Broadway Ave. Operated the John Deere and Cockshutt agencies until retirement. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 366 / Reflections p. From the Local History Sources... James Henry McCalpin and Mary Elizabeth Lloyd were married in Ontario in 1882. They settled in Boissevain area and farmed until 1902 when they purchased the furniture business from Robert Monteith, and moved to Killarney. J.H. McCalpin also bought the farm land south of the Bay, part of which became the Demonstration Farm, now the fair grounds and race track. A carpenter by trade, he built and remodelled a number of houses and business establishments. Gardening was his hobby. Some of the trees he planted are still growing on Broadway Ave., and on the farm south of town. He owned one of the first tractors and school boys often visited just to see or have a ride on it. He was a funeral director and kept a beautiful team of black horses to use on the hearse. On long hard trips in the wintertime, it was necessary to change horses part way, in order that his own team could rest and be fed and watered. Selling the farm, they moved to Killarney and he operated the John Deere and Cockshutt agencies until retirement. Mrs. McCalpin, although not a trained nurse, befriended the sick and lonely. The Killarney Exhibition attracted many people from the surrounding areas. They arrived by train and if rooms were not available, the McCalpins set up new beds and mattresses, supplied linens from their home, and accommodated many stranded guests. McCann, James Biography: Claims: Built the Leland Hotel. IOOF 1894. Mason – Inner Guard Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 93 / Reflections p. McKnight , W.A.  Biography: m. Charlotte Almina Fairhall Claims: First child born in Riverside Municipality on March 25, 1883. Moved to Killarney in 1903. Carpenter. Grocery store business until 1927. He sold insurance until 1938. Clerk of the Session of Killarney United Church, Superintendent of the Sunday School, President of the Curling club, and President of the local Constituency Conservative Association. He was a Past Master and County Master of Orange Lodge No. 1583, and was a member of the Masonic Lodge. For eight years he served as County Court Clerk and Bailiff. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 280 / Reflections p.  McNight’s Store
From the Local History Sources... William A McKnight was the first child born in Riverside Municipality on March 25, 1883. He married Charlotte Almina Fairhall, who was born near London, Ontario. She came west with her parents about 1885 to a homestead eight miles north of Killarney and later moved into town with her parents. Will McKnight moved to Killarney in 1903, working first as a carpenter, then in partnership with J.A. Per- cival in a grocery store business. He assumed full control in 1908 and continued in that business until 1927 when he sold out to GM Anderson. He sold insurance and worked at other jobs until 1938. He and Mrs McKnight spent ten years Saskatchewan, returning to reside in Killarney in 1948. Will McKnight held many community offices during the years. He was Clerk of the Session of Killarney United Church, Superintendent of the Sunday School, President of the Curling club, and President of the local Constituency Conservative Association. He was a Past Master and County Master of Orange Lodge No. 1583, and was a member of the Masonic Lodge. For eight years he served as County Court Clerk and Bailiff. Mrs McKnight was active in all church activities and was a Life Member of the Women's Institute. Mrs McKnight died on January 19, 1970 and Mr McKnight on December 28, 1974. Both were buried in Killarney Cemetery from the United Church. W.A. McKnight was another grocer who spent almost his whole life on the business block, first as an employee, then a tenant, and finally owner of his own establishment. McNaughton, James A. Biography: Claims: Hardware Store. Mason. The former museum was built in 1889 by James McNaughton for Charles Bate, the postmaster, Probable Significance: | Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. McQueen, Angus Biography: Claims: Angus who had been a baker in Scotland, opened a bakery. Trustee of Northcote School Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p 370 / Reflections p.  Angus McQueen, store. The lady with the carriage is Mrs. McQueen.  Bread Token Angus McQueen and son bought the northwest corner of Broadway and Finlay where they had a grocery and bake shop. In 1933 to Angus McQueen II , also set up asa baker and grocer, followed by his son Angus III. Highlights from Local Histories ANGUS McQUEEN (1835-1912) had been a baker in Scotland but decided to seek his fortune in Manitoba. When Captain Rigby came through Emerson in 1880, he was welcomed there by his old friend, Angus McQueen. Two years later, Angus with his wife Elizabeth (1835-1926) followed his friends and homesteaded N 34-3-17 in the Northcote district. His son, Angus (1869-1953), remembered camping on the north shore of the lake until they located their homestead. As Killarney grew after the coming of the railway, Angus Mc- Queen opened the first bakery there, later including groceries in his stock. Angus Jr. clerked in Fred Moule's store and in other stores. When his father retired he took over the business which he ran until he sold it to Fred Kent in 1910. For a time he was a sales- man for Jobin Marrin, Wholesale Grocers, until in 1933 he bought Alex Middleton's grocery store. Angus Jr. married Flora Huffman who had taken a stenog- rapher's training in Petrolia, Ontario. P. J. Sherlock encouraged her to come to Killarney where she worked in the C.P.R. office. For over fifty years she sang in the Methodist and United church choirs where, according to a friend, "the warmth and beauty of her voice brought pleasure and solace to successive generations of Killarney people." Melville, Mrs. John Biography: John Melville (1842-1935) came with the Harrisons to Wakopa with his wife Jane Hannon (1853-1944) Claims: Boarding House (Melville House), a “high class boarding house … built and operated for many years by Mrs. John Melville, a strong and capable woman whose "Home away from Home" was patronized by many having Killarney on their regular beat. Later became the Morden House, then the Killarney Hotel Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. 429 , 38  From the Local History Sources... John Melville (1842-1935) came with the Harrisons* to Wakopa in 1878 and filed on E 24-1-18. His wife Jane Hannon (1853-1944) and three children came the next spring. Some years later Jane opened a boarding house in Killarney (The Melville House). John sold his farm to his son William in 1905, bought a half section on the slopes of Turtle Mountain and spent 30 happy years trapping. He was a resident of the district for 56 years and died at William's home. The Melville house, a high class boarding house at 427 Williams Avenue, was built and operated for many years by Mrs. John Melville, a strong and capable woman whose "Home away from Home" was patronized by many having Killarney on their regular beat. The "Melville House" porter was something to see. Dressed in a uniform and a fine hat, with buttons and braid, one of his duties was to meet the passenger train morning and evening, with a push cart in summer and a sleigh in winter to carry the valises of travellers past the hotels to the homier atmosphere of "The Melville House". This site also has the honor of being one of only three businesses to operate continually on the same premises. It was later owned and operated by June and Jerry Letkeman as a motel and dining room. They also operate a full fledged catering service at 521 William Ave. Midford, Elizabeth Biography: d. 1922 Claims: Elizabeth left England in 1888. After two years in Philadelphia, she came to Killarney opened a boarding house on Railroad Avenue, just west of T. J. Lawlor's store. She ran it until after the turn of the century when she married George Latham of the Dunrea area. Probable Significance: Medium Source: Trails & Crossroads to Killarney p. 284 / Reflections p. Moule, Fred Biography: Claims: Early store Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 282 / Reflections p. Highlights from Local Histories “Angus McQueen Jr. clerked in Fred Moule's store and in other stores.” “Wallace Dafoe clerked in Moule's store for a short time and went to Montreal. “ Mustard, Arthur Biography: (1870 – 1939) m. (1893) Anne Stilwell (1886 – 1933) Claims: Came to Manitoba with his neighbours, the Haights, in 1882. He eventually filed homestead claim on 10-4-18. Mr. and Mrs. Mustard farmed and beautified 10-4-18 until 1923 when they moved to a farm on the outskirts of Killarney. Mrs. Mustard was an avid gardener as well as an accomplished musician. Mr. Mustard was much in demand for his veterinary skill as well as being a weed inspector, stone mason and auctioneer. He was Secretary-Treasurer of the Rowland School District for many years and was a member of the Masonic Lodge. Probable Significance: Modest Source: Source: Trails & Crossroads to Killarney p. 288 / Reflections p. 451 Highlights from Local Histories Arthur Mustard was probably the youngest immigrant coming west on his own initiative. His early days were spent on his father's farm in Essex County, Ontario, adjacent to the Haight farm where the family were all boys, while the Mustard fam- ily at that time were all girls, except Arthur. When the Haight family decided to go west, Arthur, catching the fever, too, boarded the train, unknown to anyone and managed to conceal his presence from the Haights and the conductor for two days. It was then, they thought, too late to send an eleven-year-old boy back alone so they wired the Mustard family and Arthur remained with the Haights. When he was old enough, he homesteaded NW 10-4-18. In 1892 he married Fred Stilwell's daughter, Annie Kent, who was teaching Rowland School and boarding with the Haights. They had nine children, Winnie, Emma, Madge, Ruby, Archie, Harry, Joe, Olive, and Jack. The children drove four miles to attend Rowland School where Arthur Mustard served as secretary for twenty-one years. Annie Mustard was an accomplished pianist and active in the women's organizations of Rowland Church. Arthur Mustard ran his farm and also performed many tasks needed in a growing community - weed inspector, stone mason, building foundations for barns, granaries, etc., dehorning cattle. He also acted as auctioneer until impaired hearing forced him to give that up. He was widely known for his veterinary skill and he and his bay horse 'Queen' were a welcome sight to many a farmer in distress. Olver, R.W.  Biography: (1853-1932), married Pearl Blanche Opperman (b 1896) Claims: Richard and Pearl farmed in the Glendenning District and later moved to Killarney where Richard started the town’s first pharmacy business in 1894. He sold his business in 1911 and farmed near Killarney until his death in 1932. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 350 / Reflections p.  From the Local History Sources... Richard Olver (1853-1932), son of Edwin, born in Mitchell, Ont., married Pearl Blanche Opperman (b 1896) in Boissevain. Richard and Pearl farmed in the Glendenning District and later moved to Killarney where Richard started a pharmacy business. The first pharmacy was opened by Mr. R.W. Olver in 1894; he had come from England and served his apprenticeship in Boissevain. He sold his business in 1911 and farmed near Killarney until his death in 1932. Parker, William Biography: (1879-1967) In 1902 he married Henrietta Henderson (1875 - 1960). Claims: Employed as a farm hand for many years before buying his own place near Bannerman. Mr. Parker then operated the International Harvester Co. in Killarney until his retirement. Served as councillor for the Turtle Mountain Municipality as well as holding the position of secretary-treasurer and trustee of the Victoria Lake School District Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. 465 From the Local History Sources... William Parker (1879-1967) was born at Goderich, Ontario to John and Mary Jane Parker (Pennyfeather). He had two brothers and two sisters. One sister, Mrs. Flo Henry (97) still resides in Stratford, Ont. He received his formal education at Clinton, Ont. In 1900 he came west to the Wakopa and Bannerman districts where he was employed as a farm hand for many years before buying his own place near Bannerman. On Dec. 3, 1902 he married Henrietta Henderson of Wakopa. She was born Aug. 3, 1875 in Ecclefechan, Scotland, the middle child of William and Janet Henderson* (Davidson). The Henderson family arrived in Canada in 1881. From 1902 until 1928 when they moved to Killarney, William and Henrietta were successful farmers. Mr. Parker then operated the International Harvester Co. in Killarney until his retirement. At one time he served as councillor for the Turtle Mountain Municipality as well as holding the position of secretary-treasurer and trustee of the Victoria Lake School District. Mrs. Parker was of a quiet retiring nature and devoted to her family and grandchildren. Mrs. Parker died Oct. 28, 1960 and Mr. Parker Dec. 28, 1967. They rest side by side in Killarney Cemetery. Parsons, George Biography: (1866-1966) married Mary Ellen Hodgins d. 1960 Claims: Early tenant of the Wallis Building. Built a bake shop at the rear of building. Had a market garden by the lake on the site of the first post office. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 351 / Reflections p. From the Local History Sources... George Parsons (1866-1966) was the only one of eleven children in his family to come west in 1891 from Singhampton, Ont. He bought S.E. 25-3-17 on the Pembina River and in 1894 married Mary Ellen, daughter of Wm. and Mary Hodgins. They later lived in Killarney and also had a market garden by the lake on the site where the first post office was. They moved with Mabel to Vancouver in 1936. Mrs. Parsons died in 1960 and George in 1966 aged 100 years. Pinkerton, George Biography: Claims: Watch Repair Shop. Geo. Pinkerton opened a watch repair shop and added silverware and dishes as finances permitted, finally seIling out to Wilbur Baxter. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. Pritchard, Joseph Biography: d. 1928 m. Armine Turriff. Claims: Joseph Pritchard did an extensive business shipping cattle and horses, often shipping ten or twelve carloads to St. Paul. The cattle were driven in huge herds to Bannerman and thence by the Great Northern to various points in the United States. He also shipped carloads of horses to Saskatchewan to supply homesteaders there. For about fifteen years he operated his own elevator which he finally sold to Norman Paterson and Son. When Killarney was incorporated as a village in 1903 he was elected to the first council. Probable Significance: Medium Source: Trails & Crossroads to Killarney p. 294 / Reflections p. Ramsay, William Francis Biography: (1886 – 1933) Married Mary Jane Tait (1868-1948). Claims: Builder, hardware merchant Lumber business. Hardware firm of W.F. Ramsay and Sons in 1908. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. From the Local History Sources... Born in Huron County, Ontario on 10 December 1866, one of ten children born to James Ramsay (1829-1881) and Elizabeth Jones (1840-?), he apprenticed as a carpenter starting at age 16. He moved to Washington state at the age of 21, where he worked for two years, returning to the family farm for a year, after which he worked in contracting and building. He moved to Killarney in 1892 where he continued in the building trade for six years, then operated a lumber business for nine years. He established the hardware firm of W. F. Ramsay and Sons in January 1908. On 22 January 1890, he married Mary Jane Tait (1868-1948). They had five sons: James Guy Ramsay (1891-?), George Earl Ramsay (1893-?), Frank Gladstone Ramsay (1900-?), John William Ramsay (1902-?), and Charles Clarence Ramsay (1910-?). He was a member of the IOOF, Independent Order of Foresters, and Presbyterian Church. He died at Killarney on 31 October 1933 and was buried in the Killarney Cemetery. Rigby, Miss. A.A. Biography: Claims: Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p.  Miss A.A. Rigby in her millinery shop on the east side of Main Street. Mrs. Lea is in background. Rigby, Angus N. (Jack) Biography: (1886 - 1938) 1892 married Mabel B Coleman ( - d. 1970) Claims: Eldest son of Capt John and Agnes Rigby. In 1928 they moved to a farm one mile east of Killarney and in 1930 Jack became an agent for John Deere Implements. The Rigbys were actively involved in all community life taking part in the (Methodist) United Church and school affairs and in the project of building a Manitoba Pool Elevator at Rhodes. Mr Rigby served on the school boards of Northcote and Killarney Collegiate Institute. He helped organize and was superintendent of the Sunday School which was held in Northcote school, served on the Board of Stewards for Killarney United Church, was a member of Canadian Order of Foresters and enjoyed playing ball in summer and curling in winter. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p.  Mr. and Mrs. AN (Jack) Rigby, Dec. 7, 1910. From the Local History Sources... Angus N Rigby (known as Jack) was born March 21, 1886 on the Rigby homestead northwest of Killarney, the eldest son of Capt John and Agnes Rigby and grew up there with his four sisters and one brother. He received his early education mainly in winter in the little red school house (Oak Ridge) as the boys were needed to help with the farm duties during the summer. In the spring of 1906 he left home to farm on his own and purchased the west half of 32-3-17 from Mr. Edmund Lillew. On December 7, 1910 he married Mabel B Coleman. Mr and Mrs Rigby were actively involved in all community life taking part in the (Methodist) United Church and school affairs and in the project of building a Manitoba Pool Elevator at Rhodes. Social life consisted mainly of family gatherings, school and SS picnics in summer; one of the highlights being the annual Northcote picnic which was held on the banks of the Pembina River at the home of Mr and Mrs Howard Brown. In 1928 Mr and Mrs Rigby and family moved to a farm one mile east of Killarney and in 1930 Jack became an agent for John Deere Implements. III health interrupted an active and enjoyable business and social life and he died Feb 23, 1938. Mr Rigby served on the school boards of Northcote and Killarney Collegiate Institute. He helped organize and was superintendent of the Sunday School which was held in Northcote school, served on the Board of Stewards for Killarney United Church, was a member of Canadian Order of Foresters and enjoyed playing ball in summer and curling in winter After Mr Rigby's death Mrs Rigby carried on in her home in Killarney. These were depression years and she used her home to provide nursing care for many in the community and will be remembered for her kind and loving care and contributions to her church and community. Her life was centered around her own family with special pleasure derived from her twelve grand- children. She died in a nursing home in Winnipeg on April 2, 1970. Rolston, Robert Biography: Claims: First lumber yard. First livery barn – the “Brocho Stable”. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 94 / Reflections p. Rowe, Samuel Biography: (1846 – 1904) Claims: He came to Killarney in 1895 from Greenway where he had settled in 1881. While there he kept what he called a "Work and Weather Diary," - a first hand look at events. He is well remembered as the affable host of the Leland Hotel and he also served as county clerk until ill health forced him to retire. Probable Significance: Medium Source: Trails & Crossroads to Killarney p. 371 / Reflections p. Sherloch, Philip J. Biography: Claims: Station Agent 1899 – 1928 Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p. 354 / Reflections p. Simpson, Frank Biography: Claims: Ogilvie Milling Co. 1886 Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. Smaill, James Wellington Biography: (1860-1937). Married Ruth Ella Burns (1859-1955) Claims: Arrived in Killarney in 1884. Homestead and Real Estate Business. Reeve 1901. He served for 13 years as County Court Clerk, was a member of the Killarney School Board for nine years, and President of the Killarney Curling Club for fourteen years. A notary public and a Police Magistrate, he was President of the Killarney Board of Trade for several terms. During the First World War, he was a member of the Tribunal Board and Chairman of the Red Cross and Patriotic League. He was Secretary of the Jamestown-Brandon Highway and Governor of the Highway for Canada. Source: Trails to Killarney p. 309 / Reflections p. 514  Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Smaill and their first grandson, Jack Kenaston. From the Local History Sources... James Wellington Smaill (1860-1937) Businessman. Born at Goderich, Huron County, Ontario on 3 March 1860, son of architect James Smaill, he was educated at the Goderich Public School and Collegiate Institute. He came to Manitoba in 1880, working in the real estate business in Emerson in the days of its boom then moved to Crystal City in 1881 where he opened an office and had charge of the business of the late Hon. Thomas Greenway. He moved to Killarney in 1884 where he homesteaded and opened a real estate business. He and wife Ruth Ella Burns of Bowmanville had one son and two daughters. He was active in municipal affairs, serving as Reeve of the Rural Municipality of Turtle Mountain and Mayor of Killarney (1910, 1928-1937). He served for 13 years as County Court Clerk, was a member of the Killarney School Board for nine years, and President of the Killarney Curling Club for fourteen years. A notary public and a Police Magistrate, he was President of the Killarney Board of Trade for several terms. During the First World War, he was a member of the Tribunal Board and Chairman of the Red Cross and Patriotic League. He was Secretary of the Jamestown-Brandon Highway and Governor of the Highway for Canada. He was an Anglican and supported the Liberal party in politics. He died at Killarney on 6 September 1937 Stevenson, Fredrick Ernest  Biography: (1881 – 1957) In 1907 he married Emily Maude Howard (1884 – 1961) Claims: Jeweler, municipal official . Came from Renfrew, Ontario in 1903. Started a Jewellery Store (1903 – 1946). He served several years on Town Council and was Mayor of Killarney for two terms (1938 – 39) . Agricultural Society Secretary. Golf Club. Curler. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. 530 From the Local History Sources... Born at Renfrew, Ontario on 6 February 1881, he came to Killarney in 1902 and operated a jewelry store until 1946 when he moved to Vancouver, British Columbia. During his time in Killarney, he served as the Mayor (1938-1939) and was a member of the Killarney Golf Club and Manitoba Horticultural Association. He moved to Winnipeg in 1951 and was a member of the Winnipeg Horticultural Society and Riverview United Church. He and wife Emily Maude Howard (1884-1961) had two children: Howard W. Stevenson and Kathleen Stevenson. He died at his Winnipeg home, 194 Oakwood Avenue, on 13 May 1957 and was buried in the Killarney Cemetery. Frederick E. Stevenson came from Renfrew, Ontario in 1903 to establish a jewellery business in Killarney. In 1907 he married Emily Howard. They had two children, Willard and Kathleen, who grew up in Killarney. The entire family were active in the community. They were supporters of the Methodist, later United Church, Mrs. Stevenson taking an active part in the musical activities of church and community. Mr. Stevenson served several years on Town Council and was Mayor of Killarney for two terms. Treleaven, George Biography: Claims: Opened the first harness shop. Built the Treleaven Block on Broadway Ave and a brick cottage near the bay. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. Vipond, Ralph Biography: (1850 – 1931) m. Jane (1852 – 1932) Claims: Ralph established a logging camp on Turtle Mountain where he cut logs for $3.00 a thousand board feet. He was a Methodist and often took the pulpit when there was no minister. Probable Significance: Modest Source: Trails & Crossroads to Killarney p. 316 / Reflections p. Vipond, George Isaac Biography: (1852 – 1931) m. 1883) Gertrude Boxill Claims: Arrrived in 1886. George had a large smoke house in which he specialized in the home curing and smoking of pork using oak bark for fuel and fol- lowing the Armour sugar-curing recipe. He undertook one unprofit- able venture, selling small treadmill-driven threshing machines which were soon superseded by more modern equipment. George Vipond sang in the Methodist choir and gave singing lessons both in Rowland and in Killarney. He also played the violin and offered free lessons to John Rigby's daughter but at the time the Rigbys could not afford to buy a violin. He owned and operated Killarney's electric light plant.Probable Significance: Modest Source: Trails & Crossroads to Killarney p. 317 / Reflections p. Williams. C.W. Biography: Claims: William Harrison and C. W. Williams built their first grist-mill and sawmill at Wakopa in 1878. Early Store in Killarney. C. W. Williams of Wakopa had a small printing press and the minutes of the Municipal Council record that he was given a contract to do some of its printing on February 21, 1885. He moved to Killarney after the railway came and published a small sheet, printed on one side only and distributed free of charge, called The Occasional. A copy, dated August 16, 1887, containing some business notices and news items, is in the Killarney Museum. Probable Significance: Medium Source: Trails & Crossroads to Killarney p. 40, 96 / Reflections p. Wallis, H. A. Biography: Claims: Store – then Real Estate, Insurance, and Collection Agency. Built the Middleton Bakery Block. Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. From the Local History Sources... The Wallis building had several grocery owners or tenants. George Parsons, an early tenant, built a bake shop at the rear and operated both the grocery and bakery until about 1918 when Alex Middleton bought the building from the Wallis estate. For a few years, one-half was occupied by Andrew McNamee, a grocer, and the other side by the owner, Mr. Middleton, a baker by trade. Winram. George Biography: Claims: Livery operator. Councilor – 1915 – 1921 Probable Significance: Source: Trails to Killarney p / Reflections p. |