T.J. Harris
Born: February 5, 1849
Master: 1890
Died: February 1921
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T.J. HarrisBorn: February 5, 1849
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Amherstburg lost another of its old business men Sunday, when T.J. Harris, Murray Street grocer, passed away, the second death in the business ranks within two weeks. Mr. Harris had not been well for some months but wasn't considered to be in a serious condition until four weeks ago, when after disposing of his interests in the business to his son Charles, he suffered a breakdown, and was taken to Harper Hospital for special treatment. Here his malady was diagnosed as pernicious anemia, and successive blood transfusions built him up, and he came home so much improved that his family felt sanguine of his ultimate recovery. The improvement, however, was only temporary, and last week a general breakdown followed, and hope of his recovery was abandoned. The end came peacefully about 1:15 Sunday morning. Nowhere is sympathy more spontaneous in its development nor so generously extended than in Amherstburg, and Mrs. Harris and her family were shown every consideration that a kindly people could show. The funeral Tuesday afternoon was attended not only by the town's people generally but by many from neighbouring townships who through long years had been associated with the Harris' in a business way. Being one of the oldest Pastmasters of Thistle Lodge, No. 34, A.F. & A.M., and for many years Chaplain of the Lodge, the funeral was under Masonic auspices. The remains were taken to Wesley Methodist Church, of which deceased had been an active, hard working member during the whole course of his life in Amherstburg, and the sacred edifice was crowded to the doors, while many who wished to could not gain admission. While the procession was entering, Miss Sylva Pulford played the Dead March in Saul, and during the course of the service Mrs. Robert Jones sang most effectively the sole "Face to Face". The services were in charge of Rev. W.E. Donnelly pastor, who in an eloquent discourse likened the late Mr. Harris to Eli of old, in that he was a man who valued earthly citizenship; he made the moral welfare of the community his daily concern; he was a man of courageous convictions; he was a man whose heart trembled for the welfare of the church. The audience filed out of the church to the strains of "Abide With Me". At Rose Hill cemetery the beautiful ritualistic burial ceremony of the Masonic Order was read by S.E.M. Taylor, Master of the Lodge, and responded to by a large number of brethren. The pallbearers were C.A. Cuddy, C.R. Hackett, Chas. Mickle, W.E. Craig, W.F. Curtis and Stafford Brush. The casket was smothered in the choicest floral offerings, sent by loving friends from far and near.
Mr. Harris was a native of Caradoc township, his birth there being on February 5th, 1849. Of a family of eight, only three are living -- James, of Bad Axe, Michigan; Arthur W., of Amherstburg and Mrs. Oliver, of Calgary. When a young man he went to London, where he learned tinsmithing, in the McClary manufactory. He came to Amherstburg 50 years ago and was first employed as a machine hand in the Park & Borrowman sash and door factory. Later he was associated with the late George Bailey as carpenter for some years and it was while working on the Weaver house in Anderdon 20 years ago he fell and broke his ankle; as a result of this accident he was ever afterwards lame. He then joined Mrs. Harris, in business on Murray street, enlarging the building and adding a modern grocery department. He was married in 1873 to Margaret Boyton, and they had three children, William (deceased), Charles, of Amherstburg, and Miss Belle of Detroit. Among those from a distance at the funeral were Clyde Harris and wife of Clare, Michigan; Fred Harris, of Columbiaville, Michigan; Mrs. Simon Beaugardis, of Clare, Michigan; Will Oliver, of Lansing, Michigan; Robert Hamilton and Alfred Hamilton, of Detroit.
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George T. FloreyBorn: St. Catharines - orphaned age 12
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The name of George T. Florey which has been connected with the business interests of Amherstburg for the past forty years, will have to be erased. Mr. Florey having passed away Monday afternoon at his home on Richmond Street at the ripe old are of 84 years, 11 months and 10 days. He was a familiar figure at the grocery of G.T. Florey & Son until between Christmas and New Year's, when he began to fail rapidly, and only twice during January was able to come down town. Stomach trouble developed and he was unable to take nourishment required to keep up strength to ward off death. His end was peaceful; he was conscious to the last. Native of St. Catharines, he was left an orphan at 12 years of age, and early developed a business acumen which enabled him to win a remarkable success under adverse conditions. As a young man he first went into the milling and grain business at Thorold, where later he was married to Miss Elizabeth A. Scott, and there a family of seven was born to them, four or whom died in infancy. The others, Miss Frances, Henry and Herbert (the latter now of Maxville, Montana), came to Amherstburg with him some 40 years ago, when, induced by his brother-in-law, Robert Scott, then a resident of this town, he purchased a business here instead of in Windsor, his first location being in the drug store block, corner of Ramsay and Murray streets, where he had a large flour and feed business. Later he bought F.S. Williams' grocery business, on the lot now occupied by the I.O.O.F. building, and other places in which he conducted business were in the Horsman block, the Hadley block and Lake View block, buying the Webber place a quarter century ago, his grocery there being one of the best known throughout South Essex. Mr. Florey took keen interest in municipal affairs, was a member of the Amherstburg council for several terms, and Mayor of the town in 1900. He was also an enthusiastic member of the Masonic order, and was Master of Thistle Lodge in 1891. He was one of the oldest members of Lorne Lodge No. 11 A.O.U.W. and carried a beneficiary in that order to the last. Deceased was a man of decided opinions on all subjects, well read, seasoned judgment, and an ardent Liberal. Mrs. Florey passed away April 5th, 1908, and since that time he had been carefully and lovingly taken care of by his daughter, Miss Florey, Amherstburg's well known music teacher. Deceased was a life long member of the Anglican church, and the funeral tomorrow (Saturday) afternoon will be held under Masonic auspices, and conducted by Rev. A. Wright, rector, from Christ Church.
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William T. Wilkinson, Jr.Born: July 31, 1865
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Played Major Part in Business Life of the Town
A NATIVE SON
Has Been in Failing Health for Many Years
The life of William T. Wilkinson, ex-Warden of Essex county and ex-Mayor of Amherstburg came to an end very peaceful about three o'clock Tuesday morning at his home in Amherstburg where for weeks he had been lying at the point of death. As Mr. Wilkinson was not only of Amherstburg's most prominent citizens, but had been in Essex county public life for some many years, his illness was regretted in homes from one end of the county to the other and his demise has caused general mourning. Grandson of James Wilkinson, one of Amherstburg's British Pensioners, and son of the late William T. Wilkinson, of Amherstburg's early business men and Reeves, his life and career touched the lives of more people than is customary in one who dies at the early age of sixty-six years. His grandfather, a British soldier, with his grandmother, were among those who trekked from Halifax to Chambly, Quebec in 1861. They had been stationed in the East Indies and many other parts of the world, and were parents of thirteen children. Early in the sixties they were sent back to Ireland, but later came to Amherstburg with their son William T. Wilkinson, father of the subject of this memoir. Among their children also were Stephen Wilkinson, pioneer merchant of the town of Essex; J.R. Wilkinson; Capt. John; Capt. Fred and Mrs. William Doran of Windsor, all of whom are deceased. Only two are left, James and Miss Wilkinson, who live in Detroit. William T. Wilkinson, senior, was married in Amherstburg in 1864 to Miss Julia Keenan, who at the age of eighty-six is still living and has long been the house keeper and devoted associate of her brilliant son. They had four children John, their eldest died at twenty-three; William T.; and two daughters, who died in infancy. The father died from an attack of pneumonia in 1885 when the children were young.
William T. Wilkinson, Jr. never married. He followed his father in the business of harness maker and in later years after giving up that business, took up real estate and insurance, which he managed to the very last. He had a great penchant for public affairs, was elected Deputy-Reeve of Amherstburg in 1895 and 1896, when the late John A. Auld was Reeve. He was a member of the Essex County council when it was in districts in 1901, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06 and was Warden of Essex County in 1903. Later he was elected Reeve of Amherstburg and a member of the Essex County Council for 1907, 08, 09, 10, 13, 14, 15 and 1916, and was Mayor of Amherstburg in 1898. Previous to that he had been a member of the Amherstburg council in 1889, 90, 91 and 92. He served on all the important committees of the county council and was considered an authority on not only county council procedure, but also on county financial affairs and other public matters. Mr. Wilkinson was a member of Thistle Masonic Lodge, was Worshipful Master in 1892 and for many years and up to his death was Treasurer of that institution. He was the oldest member of the Tyrian Pastmasters' Club. He also belonged to Prince of Wales Chapter No. 71 R.A.M. and was First Principal in 1902. It is interesting to note that his father was Master of Thistle Lodge in 1878 and 1883 and was First Principal of Prince of Wales Chapter in 1883, 84, 85 and 86. In politics he was a consistent member of the Liberal party, was financial agent for the late Hon. W.D. Balfour for some years, was President of the South Essex Liberal Association, and but for his indifferent health would undoubtedly have been member of Parliament for South Essex, as he was mentioned time and again for nomination. He took an active interest in the work of the Horticultural Society of Amherstburg, when it was first organized, and had great pride in his own lovely garden. He was Secretary of the Board of Trade for some years; was a member of the Amherstburg early cricket team; was one of the most expert lawn bowlers Amherstburg has ever had and as a young man was prominent in the field of athletics. Mr. Wilkinson was a pillar of Christ Church, sang in the choir for many years and took a deep interest in the work of that church. He was earnest and sincere in his life and conduct both in public and in private, and numbered his friends by the thousands. His funeral which was under Masonic auspices, was arranged for yesterday (Thursday) afternoon to Christ Church, where services were conducted by the Rev. H.A. Wright, rector, and burial was in Rose Hill cemetery, the pallbearers being F.A. Hough, C.R. Hackett, J.H. Lovegrove, A.W. Marsh, R.R. Brett and F.M. Falls.
Obituary, Amherstburg Echo, May 22, 1931
Provisions Made Known After Death Of His Mother
The will of the late W.T. Wilkinson, former public spirited citizen of Amherstburg, who died over a year ago, is now available for publication following the death of his mother last week. Mr. Wilkinson who for many years served the Town of Amherstburg as Mayor and as Reeve in the County Council by his will
established number of scholarships in the Amherstburg High School, provide for an Amherstburg room in Grace Hospital, Windsor, which is to be used by citizens of this town who are financially unable to obtain such accommodation, themselves; establish a fund for old Christ Church cemetery in Amherstburg, and provide for a number of personal bequests. The Guaranty Trust Company of Canada, he appointed as Executors.
The funds necessary to carry out the public bequests will become available from time to time as the legacies, given for the lives of respective legatees, will fall in.
The will, which is a remarkable well thought out document, is here published in full:
I, William T. Wilkinson, of the Town of Amherstburg, in the County of Essex, Agent, do make publish and declare my last Will and Testament as follows:
direct my executors hereinafter named to pay all my just debts, funeral and testamentary expenses as soon as conveniently may be after my decease.
I give all my estate both real and personal unto my mother, Julia A. Wilkinson for her own use so long as she shall live.
On the death of my said mother I give, devise and bequeath my said estate unto my trustees hereinafter named to hold same upon the following trusts with full power to sell or dispose of my real estate as soon as a reasonable price may be obtained therefor and without sacrificing same.
To pay the sum of $15.00 annually for the care and upkeep of the W.T. Wilkinson lot and the R.J. Wilkinson lot in Rose Hill cemetery and the sum of $10.00 annually for the care and upkeep of the Keenan lot and the grave of Sophie J. Long, wife of Herbert Long in the Roman Catholic cemetery.
To pay the sum of $25.00 annually towards the care and upkeep of the old cemetery adjacent to Christ Church, Amherstburg.
To pay unto Margaret Hackett, one half of the total income arising from my estate or the sum of $600.00 annually whichever is greater in quarterly payments so long as she shall live.
To pay annually to Annie Wilkinson, so long as she shall live and upon her death to pay the said sum of $600.00 annually to Mrs. Ruth Nutting, Mrs. Myrtle Hunt and Mrs. Charlotte Jones, daughters of James E. Wilkinson, my father's brother, in equal portions so long as they or any two or them shall live and then to the survivor of them so long as she shall live.
When and so soon as the necessary funds become available by the death of any or all of the beneficiaries hereinbefore mentioned or otherwise, to establish and pay the following prizes or scholarships to pupils of the General Amherst High School at Amherstburg, Ontario, (1) The "W.T. Wilkinson" prize to the best all-round girl student in the final year, to be determined by her scholarship and womanly character rather than ability in sports, the sum of $50.00. (2) The "W.T. Wilkinson" prize to the best all-round boy student in the final year to be determined by scholarship and manly character, the sum of $50.00. (3) The "B.P. Overholt" prize to the pupil obtaining the highest number of marks with an average of not less than 85% on the Senior Matriculation examination, the sum of $50.00. (4) The "R.H. Abbott" prize to the pupil obtaining the second highest number of marks with an average of not less than 82% on the Senior Matriculation examination, the sum of $25.00. (5) The "W.D. Balfour" prize to the pupil obtaining the highest number of marks with an average of not less than 85% on the Junior Matriculation examination, the sum of $50.00. (6) The "John A. Auld" prize to the pupil obtaining the second highest number of marks with an average of not less than 82% on the Junior Matriculation examination the sum of $25.00. The pupils entitled to such prizes or scholarships to be determined by the principal and regular teachers of the said high school for the time being by ballot or otherwise as they may elect.
When and so soon as necessary funds become available as aforesaid, to pay for the use of a room in Grace Hospital, Windsor to be known as "The Amherstburg Room" whenever required by citizens of Amherstburg financially unable to obtain such accommodation themselves, which payments, however, shall be limited to the sum of $1,300.00 per annum and which person shall be determined by the certificate of any physician practicing in that town, it being my wish that such room shall not be occupied by chronic cases or for any lengthy period of time by any one person but rather that it shall be available from time to time as required by serious cases among the class mentioned.
I direct the reside of my estate, if any, and whenever available to be expended in the improvement and maintenance of Rose Hill Cemetery, Amherstburg or in the upkeep of graves therein of persons leaving no relatives to undertake such duty and in the event of cemetery commission being appointed for the management of such cemetery, I authorize my executors to pay over such residue to such commission for such purposes.
I hereby nominate and appoint my mother, Julia Wilkinson, Executrix and the Guaranty Trust Company of Canada, Executors, of this my last Will and Testament.
I witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this twenty eighth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand nine hundred and thirty.
WILLIAM T. WILKINSON
Signed, published and declared by the said Testator as and for his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us, who at his request, in his presence and in the presence of each other have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses.
JOHN N. COOPER
RONALD E. COOPER
Amherstburg Echo , November 18, 1932
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Thomas J. SalmoniBorn: September 15, 1869
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"I joined Thistle Lodge when I was 21. I paid my initiation fee in dollar bills, and they were hard to come by then as I was only a clerk in a store. My earliest remembrance of the Masonic brethren was when I was a small boy and my mother and I would be invited to the annual banquet which then were usually held near Christmas time at least some time in the winter. These banquets were held in the hotel where the Dominion Store is now (today the Heritage Mall next to the post office). Later, when I was a member, the banquets were held in a room adjoining the present Lodge room across the hall."
"The night I joined there was another candidate, Hackett, (Harry)?, and when the deacon inquired which of us wished to go first I stepped forward and thus had the privilege of seeing Hackett initiated, a little later in the evening."
"I became Master in 1896, but did not serve out my year as I had an opportunity to better my circumstances by removing to Kingsville where I became a store proprietor. In time I became thoroughly identified with community affairs. I have been honoured with every office that the citizens of Kingsville could give me. I have been Justice of Peace, Councilor, Mayor and School trustee."
"My father, and my grandfather were Masters before me in this Lodge which I think is a record unique in Masonry in these parts. My grandfather's hotel then new-built in 1849 housed the first Lodge which was organized in that same year. The Lodge room may still be seen for the room on the top floor was especially fitted at the building for the Lodge's reception. I am now the oldest past master.
"Despite my early connection with Thistle Lodge I have not visited it for many years. My last visit was on the occasion when the late W.H. McEvoy suddenly expired in the midst of the annual "smoker". Seated at the table he slumped over and with a few deep breaths passed on."
Thomas Salmoni, a native of Amherstburg, passed away in Kingsville, Wednesday, in his 85th year. Mr. Salmoni was born in Amherstburg, the son of Mark and Jennie Skinner Salmoni. His father was a dry goods merchant in the block now owned by John and Ronald Cooper. As a young man Mr. Salmoni worked for the late J.D. Burk. He went to Kingsville years ago where he opened his own grocery store. His first wife was Nellie Teeter and they were married at the home of the late Mr. and Mrs. William H. Jones on Dalhousie Street. He is a Past Master of Thistle Lodge in Amherstburg. Besides his wife, Mr. Salmoni leaves two married daughters, Helen and Jean, and two sons, Reford and Mark. The funeral will be held in Kingsville.
Amherstburg Echo, February 4, 1954
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Dr. Thomas HobleyBorn: May 24, 1849, Amherstburg Master: 1898, 1899, 1900 Died: Friday, December 8, 1907, Amherstburg |
Dr. Thomas Hobley, whose serious illness we noted last we, died Friday evening causing additional sorrow to those already stricken by the sudden death of William Borrowman. That death should lay its hand upon two of the town's best known citizens, both of whom had led more than ordinarily active lives, and whose properties adjoined, is another forcible lesson of the uncertainty of human life. Though his final illness was sudden, Dr. Hobley had not been well all year, having suffered periodically from blinding headaches. In fact he had never been strong since the winter of 1889, when he nearly died of "grippe" in New York. Two weeks ago Tuesday evening he became violently ill while entertaining some friends at his home, and though Detroit specialists joined Dr. W.F. Park, the family physician, in an endeavor to prevent a fatal termination, he gradually sank until the end came. His symptoms indicated abscess of the liver. The funeral was held Monday afternoon and was under the auspices of Thistle Lodge No. 34 A.F. & A.M. of which deceased was a Past Master. A large representation of that lodge marched to the home where they were joined by thirty members of Detroit Commandery No. 1 to which the deceased also belonged. Rev. D. Hughson, pastor of Bruce Ave. Baptist church Windsor conducted services, assisted by Rev. Thomas Nattress of St. Andrew's Church. The Presbyterian choir sang "Jesus Savior Pilot Me" and "Lead Kindly Light" both favourites of the deceased. The concluding part of the ceremony was the beautiful ritualistic service of the Knights Templar. The Masonic services were conducted at the grave by Rev. J.C. Tolmie. The pallbearers were E.A. Patton, W.T. Wilkinson, F.M. Falls, Colin Wigle, C.Y. Dixon and S. Johnson. Dr. Hobley was a son of the late John Hobley who died in Amherstburg May 1885. His mother died here in March 1886. The deceased was born in Amherstburg May 24, 1849, being the only one of a family of nine who grew up. He spent his boyhood and young manhood here. He learned the trade of wheelwright under the late William Bungey and worked for some years at that trade. Evincing a desire for a professional life, he was sent to Victoria University, where he graduated as a physician in 1875, later taking the degree of M.D. in Trinity and Toronto Universities. At that time he made a trip through the South, and there met Elizabeth Bridwell, whom a year afterward he married. When he graduated they settled in Toronto where he soon grew into a lucrative practice remaining there until 1881, when his parents becoming invalids he relinquished his work in Toronto and settled in Amherstburg, remaining in active practice until a couple of years ago when declining health compelled him to give up all but his oldest patients. In 1890, Dr. Hobley took a post graduate course in New York, and it was when there he suffered the illness which affected the rest of his life. Though he suffered a good deal the last summer few knew it, and he looked forward to a restoration to health. He and Mrs. Hobley had every preparation made to spend the winter in Florida, intending to leave after New Year's. The deceased took a very active interest in Masonry. He was a Past Master of Thistle Lodge, No. 34 A.F. & A.M. a Past First Principal of Prince of Wales Chapter, a member of the Windsor Preceptory and of Detroit Commandery No. 1. Much sympathy is felt for Mrs. Hobley in her bereavement.
Obituary, Amherstburg Echo, December 13, 1907
The jewels and apron illustrated below were donated to the Park House, Amherstburg and remain as part of their collection. The inscriptions from the jewels are provided here. There is no name on the apron. However, it was donated by Col. Bridwell at the same time as the jewels and is assumed to have belonged to Dr. Hobley.
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Pastmasters jewel On a red, white and Blue ribbon. Top bar "Thos. Hobley, M.D." Inscription "Presented to Worshipful Master Bro. Thos. Hobley by the Brethren of Thistle Lodge No. 34, Amherstburg. Dec. 27th, 1900"
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Sterling silver jewel. Inscription "PRESENTED BY THE OFFICERS AND COMPANIONS, PRINCE OF WALES CHAPTER NO. 71 R.A.M., EX.COMP. THOMAS HOBLEY M.D. Jan. 3rd, 1898"
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Detroit Commandery No. 1 Jewel Inscription "Thos. Hobley, M.D. Membership
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| Apron assumed to be Dr. Hobley's. Blue silk borders with decorations made of thin coiled wire. | |||