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Mac and Mc

Lorraine McAllister Singer, actor b. April 15, 1922, Saskatoon, Sask.; d. April 27, 1984, Vancouver. Singing star of radio and TV in 1950s, headlining CBC Toronto’s Holiday Ranch and Vancouver’s Burn’s Chuckwagon, Some of Those Days and Meet Lorraine. Headline performer for Theatre Under the Stars. Performed in Johnny Holmes’ orchestra with Oscar Peterson as pianist and Maynard Ferguson as lead trumpet player. Wife of bandleader Dal Richards; sang with his orchestra at the Panorama Roof of the Hotel Vancouver (1950-65). “One of the glamorous performers whose warmth and charm make her a favorite.”

Malcolm Peter McBeath Mayor of Vancouver, 1916-17 See Mayors of Vancouver.

Fitzgerald McCleery Farmer b. Oct. 15, 1838, County Down, Ire.; d. April 18, 1921, Vancouver. Arrived in Esquimalt, B.C. (April 27, 1862) via the West Indies. Failed as a Cariboo prospector. With brother Samuel, built the trail from New Westminster to Point Grey for a salary of $30/month. Worked for uncle, Hugh McRoberts. In September 1862, the brothers were the first to farm the Fraser delta lands. Their first 15 head of cattle were shipped by sloops and scows from Oregon. Dairy products were canoed to New Westminster and carried by steamer to Fraser logging camps. His home, at the foot of Macdonald (1873), escaped the Great Fire of 1886. Kept a diary of his life in B.C., now at the Vancouver City Archives.

Hugh Neil MacCorkindale Educator b. 1888, Owen Sound, Ont.; d. Jan. 17, 1977. A graduate of U. of T, “Dr. Mac” first taught in Ontario (1906). Came to Vancouver in 1914. Served as an artillery officer in France from 1916-18. Taught at South Vancouver HS (now John Oliver). First principal of new Point Grey Junior HS (1928-33); superintendent of Vancouver City schools until retirement in 1954. In his 40 years with the school board and 21 years as superintendent, he pioneered concepts in education. Member, UBC senate. LL.D (UBC, 1954).

Anne Elizabeth Macdonald Arts advocate b. March 18, 1930, Vancouver; d. July 10, 1993, North Vancouver. Established North Vancouver’s Presentation House Arts Centre. Saved the historic Church of St. John the Evangelist as a recital hall (Anne Macdonald Hall, 1977). Founded North Vancouver Community Arts Council and B.C. Arts and Crafts Fair. As first executive director of Vancouver Community Arts Council, set up Assembly of B.C. Arts Councils. Sat on many boards and commissions including UBC senate, North Vancouver School District and Canadian Conference of the Arts. Member, Order of B.C. Received YWCA Woman of Distinction Award for Community Service (1990).

Blanche Macdonald (née Brillon) Entrepreneur, Native rights activist b. May 11, 1931, Faust, Alta.; d. June 8, 1985, Vancouver. Her First Nations and French ancestry was a source of pride. Championed Native causes and feminist ideals. A housewife and mother of two, she opened a modelling agency and self-improvement school (1960), later expanded into fashion, esthetics and make-up artistry training. As CEO, Native Communications Society of B.C., launched a journalism program for Native students. Founding member, Vancouver’s First Woman’s Network; board member, Better Business Bureau, Modelling Association of America, Professional Native Woman’s Association and Vancouver Indian Centre. Received YWCA Woman of Distinction Award for Business and the Professions (1985).

Jock (James Williamson Galloway) MacDonald Artist b. May 31, 1897, Thurso, Scotland; d. Dec. 3, 1960, Toronto, Ont. Lived in Vancouver (1926-46). A leading exponent of modern art as teacher and painter. Taught at Vancouver School of Decorative and Applied Arts and B.C. College of Arts (1933-35) which he co-founded with Fred Varley. One of the first abstract painters in Canada.

James M. McGavin McGavin Bakeries founder b. Dec. 28, 1882, Galston, Scotland; d. April 17, 1969, Vancouver. Learned his trade in Scotland. Bakery manager, Darvel Co-operative Society, Ayreshire. Came to Canada in 1913, joined Edmonton firm of J.A. Stinson. Bought the company in 1914. In 1928, incorporated as A. and J. McGavin, with brother Allan McGavin Sr. (b. c. 1893, Kilmarnock, Scotland; d. Aug. 29, 1955, Vancouver). Moved to Vancouver in 1924. President, McGavin Bakeries (1929-47). Built eight Western plants; also founded Bee Cee Honey (Vancouver), Peace River Honey (Dawson Creek) and Barbara Ann Baking (Los Angeles).

Gerry (Gerald Grattan) McGeer Mayor of Vancouver, 1935-36, 1947 See Mayors of Vancouver.

Helen Gregory MacGill Juvenile court judge b. Jan. 7, 1864, Hamilton, Ont.; d. Feb. 27, 1947, Chicago, Ill. Her mother was a suffragette. In 1888, Helen was the first female graduate of Toronto’s Trinity U. (BA, MA, Bmus). The first woman judge in B.C., she presided over Vancouver’s Juvenile Court (July 19, 1917-28), fighting for legal changes to benefit women and children. In 1934, named to B.C. board of industrial relations. On May 12, 1938, she was the first woman to receive an honorary LL.D from UBC. A journalist, her publication, Juvenile Courts in Canada, was accepted as a standard at Geneva. Her daughter, Elsie MacGill, was the world’s first female aeronautical engineer. Biblio: My Mother the Judge by Elsie Gregory MacGill.

William J. McGuigan Mayor of Vancouver, 1904 See Mayors of Vancouver.

George Albert McGuire Pioneer dentist, MLA b. April 7, 1871, Mount Forest, Ont.; d. July 2, 1955, Vancouver. Graduate, Royal College of Dental Surgeons (Toronto) and U. of Maryland (DDS, 1892). Practised dentistry in Vancouver (1892-1912), then moved into real estate and investments. President, B.C. section of the Conservative Association of Canada (1903). In 1907, elected Vancouver MLA, launching a long political career. As minister of education, influenced the creation of UBC. Last survivor of the famous “Solid Five” Conservatives, representing Vancouver under B.C. premiers Richard McBride and William J. Bowser.

Thomas Robert McInnes Physician, lieutenant-governor b. Nov. 5, 1840, Lake Ainslie, NS; d. March 19, 1904, Vancouver. Graduated from Rush Medical College, Chicago, Ill. In 1874, came to New Westminster to practise medicine. Elected mayor (1877-78). Appointed surgeon, Royal Columbian Hospital; superintendent, B.C. Insane Asylum. Elected MP (1879). In 1881, appointed a Canadian senator. Sixteenth lieutenant-governor of B.C. (1897-1900). In July 1898, he dismissed the Turner ministry, and in 1900, the Semlin government. In June 1900, Sir Wilfrid Laurier dismissed Gov. McInnes. In 1903, he was defeated as an independent candidate in a Vancouver by-election.

Angus MacInnis Politician b. Sept. 2, 1884, Glen William, PEI; d. March 2, 1964, Vancouver. As a teenager, ran the family farm after his father’s death. Arrived in Vancouver in 1908. Drove a milk wagon, later became a streetcar conductor (1910). Studied economics and politics and helped found the CCF. Worked for three years as business agent for Street Railwaymen’s Union. In 1921, elected to the school board. City councillor (1926-30). Vancouver MP (Vancouver East), 1930-56. LL.D (UBC, 1956). MacInnis Park in E. Vancouver was named for Angus and wife Grace MacInnis on Sept. 10, 1994. “A brilliant orator and champion of the little man.”

Grace (Winona Grace) MacInnis (née Woodsworth) Politician b. July 25, 1905, Winnipeg, Man.; d. July 10, 1991, Vancouver. Daughter of J.S. Woodsworth, organizer of the CCF party in the 1930s, she was a lifelong socialist activist in CCF/NDP. Elected B.C. MLA (1941-45). She “emerged from the backrooms” to win the Vancouver-Kingsway seat for the federal NDP (1965-74), becoming B.C.’s first woman MP. LL.D (UBC, 1977). Her husband was Angus MacInnes.

Robert Edward McKechnie Surgeon b. April 25, 1861, Brockville, Ont.; d. May 24, 1944, Vancouver. Graduate of McGill U. in medicine. Spent 10 years in Nanaimo as surgeon with Vancouver Coal. In 1893, moved to Vancouver to practice surgery. First president, B.C. Medical Association. Member, Council of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of B.C. (three terms). Consulting surgeon at Vancouver General Hospital. At its first convocation, he was elected to the UBC senate; member of UBC board of governors; chancellor (1918-44). CBE. LL.D (McGill, UBC, 1925).

Larry (Norman Archibald MacRae) MacKenzie International advisor, UBC president b. Jan. 5, 1894, Pugwash, NS; d. Jan. 26, 1986, Vancouver. Worked on family farm (1909-13). Spent WWI in active service with military honors. Studied at Dalhousie U; later Harvard and Cambridge in international law. Called to Nova Scotia bar (1926). Taught law at U. of T (1926-39). His influence was worldwide with organizations such as the League of Nations and War Information Board (1943-45). President, U. of New Brunswick; president, UBC (1944-62). On the Massey Commission, he pushed for federal grants to universities (1949-51). LL.D (UBC, 1968). Biblio: Lord of Point Grey: UBC’s Larry MacKenzie by P.B. Waite.

John (James Campbell) McLagan Newspaper publisher b. July 22, 1838, Strathardle, Scotland; d. April 11, 1901, Vancouver. He first managed the Guelph Mercury with Ontario MP James Innes. Moved west, settling in Winnipeg. Late in 1883, moved to Victoria, dealt in real estate, and filed stories with Toronto Globe. From 1884-88, operated Victoria Times. From September 1888, to his death, he published the Vancouver Daily World. In his last months, he managed the newspaper from his bed. Also wrote plays and novels. See Sara Anne McLagan bio.

Sara Anne McLagan (née Maclure) First Canadian woman newspaper editor b. 1855, near Belfast, Ire.; d. March 20, 1924, Vancouver. Her father, Sergeant John C. Maclure, came to New Westminster in 1858 with the Royal Engineers. Sara was educated in New Westminster. A co-founder of Vancouver Daily World with husband James C. McLagan. After his death, she continued as president and editor, publishing with brother Frederick S. Maclure (b. c. 1864, New Westminster; d. Nov. 25, 1941, Iona Island, B.C.).

Malcolm Alexander MacLean First mayor of Vancouver, 1886-87 See Mayors of Vancouver.

Samuel Maclure Architect b. April 11, 1860, New Westminster; d. Aug. 8, 1929, Victoria. Son of a Royal Engineer, brother of Sara Anne McLagan (see bio). Most gifted of early B.C. architects. Designed some 150 buildings either alone, with his firm or in partnership with others, including The Temple Building (Victoria, 1893); Murray House (403 St. George St., New Westminster, 1900). Designed many Shaughnessy Heights homes before WWI. Biblio: Samuel Maclure: Architect by et Bingham; The Architecture of Samuel Maclure by Leonard K. Eaton.

Harvey Reginald MacMillan Lumber magnate b. Sept. 9, 1885, Newmarket, Ont.; d. Feb. 9, 1976, Vancouver. Attended Ontario Agricultural College and Yale Forestry School. In 1908, hired as assistant inspector, Western Canada forest reserves, but spent two years in a TB sanitorium. In 1912, named chief B.C. forester. During WWI, worked for federal timber-trade commissioner and Imperial Munitions Board. In 1919, backed by British timber merchant Montague Meyer, launched H.R. MacMillan Export. His manager (later partner) was W.J. VanDusen. During WWII, chair of Wartime Shipping Ltd., a Crown corporation. LL.D (UBC, 1950). Merged with Bloedel, Stewart and Welch (1951). Resigned as chair in 1956; resigned as a director in 1970. Biblio: H.R. by Ken Drushka.

Alexander Duncan McRae Brigadier general b. Nov. 17, 1874, Glencoe, Ont.; d. June 26, 1946, Ottawa. After selling a busy insurance firm in Duluth, Minn. (1895-1903), he bought and resold 500,000 acres in Saskatchewan from the Dominion government at $1/acre, making a healthy profit. Arrived in Vancouver (1907); pursued lumber and fishing interests. As director, supply and transportation, for Western Canada, went overseas with 2nd Division, CEF (April 1915). Brigadier-general, Canadian forces. Ran ministry of information under Lord Beaverbrook. PC MP (1926-30). Canadian senator (1931). In 1941, national chair, Canadian War Services Fund. Entertained high society at Hycroft (1489 McRae). In WWII, donated Hycroft to department of health and pensions and moved to Qualicum Beach, B.C.

Hugh McRoberts Sea Island pioneer b. 1814, Belfast, Ire.; d. c. July 11, 1883, New Westminster. After immigrating to Australia, he searched for gold in California (1849) and Yale (1858). Joined William Powers, an Englishman, building a trail from Yale to Boston Bar. Also built the McRoberts Trail from New Westminster to Musqueam. First settler on McRoberts’ Island (later Sea Island) in 1861. Pre-empted a claim on the north bank of the Fraser on April 24, 1862, and transferred two lots to his nephews, Samuel and Fitzgerald McCleery. Later sold his farm and moved to New Westminster, establishing a dairy business.

George McSpadden First assessor b. Nov. 3, 1865, near Bryansford, Ire.; d. May 22, 1920, Vancouver. An experienced building contractor, he became the City of Vancouver’s first building inspector and city assessor. Systemized operations, added new departments and gathered statistics. In 1900, took a census of Vancouver’s population (just over 23,000). Elected City alderman by a large majority. Built his residence at Commercial and Charles in E. Vancouver. McSpadden St. and McSpadden Park named for him.

Frank Cornwall McTavish Surgeon b. 1872, Palmrya, Ont.; d. Nov. 8, 1936, Vancouver. Came to Vancouver in 1903 after serving in Boer War (1899-1902). In 1905, appointed surgeon-lieutenant in 6th Regiment, the Duke of Connaught’s Own Rifles. In 1906, raised the 18th Field Ambulance, Canadian Army Medical Corps. After WWI, was provincial secretary of St. John’s Ambulance. An orthopaedic surgeon, he was on the Vancouver General Hospital staff for many years. Helped organize the Crippled Children’s Hospital where he served as chief surgeon until his death.

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James Edwin Machin First librarian, Carnegie Library b. c. 1833, Leamington, Eng.; d. March 31, 1910, Vancouver. From 1892-1910, he served as Vancouver’s second librarian, after Mrs. George Pollay (1887-92). Eliza, his wife (b. c. 1855, Eng.; d. Dec. 22, 1916, Vancouver), and daughter also worked with him. Lacking funds, they “begged books from their friends in England and in this country.” The new library (Main and Hastings) was sponsored by US industrialist Andrew Carnegie. The cornerstone was laid March 29, 1902. Eliza was choir mother of Christ Church Cathedral for 27 years, a founder of the Operatic Society and supporter of local musicians. She introduced Christmas dinners at the Carnegie Library, a tradition that continues today at the Carnegie Community Centre.

Charles Cleaver Maddams Mount Pleasant settler b. 1855, Eng.; d. 1928. In 1883, moved to Victoria as steward for B.C.’s third lieutenant-governor, Clement Francis Cornwall. Later worked as assistant to Henry Abbott, remaining with CPR to 1901. In 1888, bought five acres on the south shore of False Creek in Mt. Pleasant; in 1890, built Maddams Ranch (aka Maddams Orchard). Because of nearby Chinese farms, he named the area China Creek. In 1923, transferred the ranch to the park board to cover his taxes. “The ranch was the pride of the community in its day.” Maddams St., originally a Mt. Pleasant trail, is named for him.

Hugh & Isabella Magee Hugh and Isabella Magee arrived in British Columbia in 1858 with four young children. The Magees were among the first Europeans to settle in the Vancouver area. In 1861 Hugh Magee began farming 240 acres of land in the Big Bend area along the Fraser River near New Westminster, and in 1867 moved to 191 acres of land in what is now the Southlands area of Vancouver. By 1880, Isabella had given birth to 15 children, of which 13 survived.

Hugh Magee was a colorful, quick-tempered, quick-witted Irishman, fiercely loyal to friends and quarrelsome with opponents. In 1893 Magee cleared Magee Road (49th Avenue) through the forest to the newly constructed Granville Street. Hugh Magee died March 9, 1909, at the age of 83. He left a will with instructions that kept lawyers and the courts busy for the next fifty-three years. Magee High School was named after this Vancouver pioneer. (Entry by John Macdonald. Hugh Magee was John’s wife’s great-great-grandfather)

Edmond Maillard Fraser Mills confessor d. August 3, 1966, Ste.-Foy-Les-Lyon, France. On Sept. 22, 1909, some 30 families (110 people) left Montreal by special CPR train to work in Fraser Mills in the southwestern part of Coquitlam. Father Maillard, a young Roman Catholic Oblate from France, arrived with them. Lived in baggage cars for two weeks while homes were built by new employers. First service held in a room above a store. Opened Our Lady of Lourdes Church on Dec. 10, 1910. When it burned down in 1911, he rebuilt it. After he left the community in 1912, the post office adopted the name Maillardville in his honor (1913). In 1937, he returned to France to teach at a Franco-Canadian College in Rhone.

W. H. Malkin Mayor of Vancouver, 1929/30 See Mayors of Vancouver.

Mandrake the Magician (Leon Mandrake) Entertainer b. April 11, 1911, New Westminster; d. Jan. 28, 1993, Surrey. Raised in New Westminster. At eight, performed at Edison vaudeville theatre and New Westminster’s Civic National Exhibition. From 1927, toured North America with his magic show. By the 1940s, he was a top box-office draw. Married his wife and partner/assistant, Velvet, in Chicago in 1947. Toured worldwide, setting the trend for large, elaborate illusion shows; was the first magician to play nightclubs. In the 1950s, he had two TV series and performed on the CBC. Lectured at Canadian universities in the 1970s. Inspired a cartoon strip, Mandrake the Magician.

Joseph Mannion Unofficial first mayor of Vancouver b. March 17, 1839, County Mayo, Ire.; d. Sept. 12, 1918, Lillooet, B.C. Left priestly studies to hunt for gold in the Cariboo, arriving in New Westminster on April 19, 1862. From 1864, worked as a stevedore, telegraph company employee, miner and logger. In 1874, bought a half interest in the Granville Hotel (later sole proprietor). In 1881, his two sons drowned when their canoe was swamped on English Bay. Known as “the mayor of Granville” before the first official mayor, M.A. MacLean, was elected. Elected alderman (1888) but resigned and moved to 160 acres on Bowen Island. “Settled into the life of a country squire.”

Charles (Carlos) Marega First professional B.C. sculptor b. Sept. 24, 1871, Genoa, Italy; d. March 27, 1939, Vancouver. Arrived in Vancouver in 1909. In addition to sculpting, he also taught art. His work can still be seen in Vancouver, including a statue of Captain Vancouver at City Hall and twin lions at the south end of Lions Gate Bridge.

Richard Marpole CPR executive b. Oct. 8, 1850, Wales; d. June 8, 1920, Vancouver. At 16, joined Northern Railway of Canada. From 1881, he moved up in CPR ranks as a contractor, assistant manager of construction, and superintendent, construction and operation. Transferred to Pacific Division (1886) and was named general superintendent (1897-1907), then B.C. general executive assistant (1914). Vice president, Esquimalt and Nanaimo Railway. He was manager when the first passenger trains crossed Canada and the first in North America to prepare timetables based on a 24-hour system. Member of the posse to catch Bill Miner, May 14, 1906, after his second train robbery. Marpole is named for him.

Leonard Charles Marsh Social scientist b. Sept. 24, 1906, London, Eng.; d. May 10, 1982, Vancouver. Attended London School of Economics, then moved to Canada to direct a social-science research program at McGill (1930-41). Supported League for Social Reconstruction. A writer and editor, contributed to the League’s influential book, Social Planning for Canada (1935). His book, Canadians In and Out of Work (1940), studied social class. Research advisor, federal committee on post-war reconstruction (1941-44). Published Report on Social Security for Canada (1943). His programs led to today’s social security system. Welfare adviser to UN (1944-46); director of research, UBC school of social work (1948-64); professor, educational sociology (1964-72). Retired in 1973.

“Fighting Joe” (Joseph) Martin Premier b. Sept. 24, 1852, Milton, Ont.; d. March 2, 1923, Vancouver. Worked as a telegraph operator and teacher, then practised law. In 1883, elected as Manitoba MLA; minister of education and attorney-general. In 1893, elected MP. Practised law in Vancouver (1897); becoming one of the city’s largest landowners. Elected B.C. MLA (1898). After Premier Semlin was forced to resign by Lt. overnor Thomas R. McInnes in February 1900, Martin became acting premier, with six supporters. Four months later, he was defeated by James Dunsmuir. Moved to England (1908); elected to British House of Commons (1910). Back in Vancouver, he tried (and failed) to get elected as Asiatic Exclusion League candidate, to become mayor, and to start an evening paper (1914-22).

Ranjit Mattu Star athlete b. July 17, 1916, Jullunder, Punjab, India; d. March 23, 1989, Malibu, Calif. Came to Vancouver in 1924. The “Gretsky of his time.” Graduated with a BA from UBC as a star athlete in rugby and football. He coached Canadian high school football and later jr. football (to 1949). His team, The Vancouver Blue Bombers, were the Dominion Champions of 1947, the first such championship won by Vancouver. Joined his father’s firm, Best Fuels; later established various business interests including Ocean City Sawmills (renamed Hem-fir Lumber) on Mitchell Island. A community leader, he was Indian Prime Minister Pandit Nehru’s organizer and host when Nehru visited B.C. in 1949.

Thomas Hayton Mawson English landscape architect b. May 5, 1861, Scorten, Eng.; d. 1933. An influential landscape theorist, he taught at Liverpool University. Travelling across North America on a speaking tour, he was given several commissions in Vancouver. Offered designs for reclamation of Coal Harbour and Stanley Park (1912-13). His Vancouver office, T.H. Mawson and Sons, located in the Rogers Building in 1914, was represented by son John W. Mawson. Famous clients included Andrew Carnegie and Cecil Rhodes. A published author on landscape architecture. Biblio: The Life and Work of an English Landscape Architect.

George Ritchie Maxwell Presbyterian cleric, labor party founder b. Jan. 11, 1857, Stonehouse, Scotland; d. Nov. 17, 1902, Vancouver. Arrived in Vancouver in 1890 to take over first Presbyterian church. A “social gospel” clergyman, he helped create the Nationalist Party, B.C.’s first labor party, in 1894. Served as Liberal-Labor MP for Burrard riding from 1896 until his death.

Susanna Gertrude Clarke Mellon Supporter of arts and worthy causes b. c. 1844, London, Eng.; d. June 17, 1926, Vancouver. Family moved to Ontario in 1851. She convinced her husband, Captain Henry Augustus Mellon (b. May 22, 1840, Nottingham, Eng.), to move from Winnipeg to B.C. in 1886, arriving just after the Great Fire of June 13. Fundraiser for local arts groups; founder, Historical and Scientific Society (April 3, 1894). In 1901, they “pressed that Lord Stratchona be asked to help provide a museum building.” The Carnegie Library building was proposed as an alternate site. Member of the Pauline Johnson Fund committee to publish her works (see bio).

Maxie (Maximillian) Michaud Hotelier, early French pioneer b. c. 1874, Point Levis, Que.; d. June 1, 1960, Langley, B.C. Walked across Canada to the Pacific. Bought the Brighton Hotel (located at the foot of today’s Windermere St. in Vancouver) in March 1869 from Oliver Hocking (see bio). Changed name to Hastings Hotel, promising “Travellers can be accommodated at all hours with good beds and meals. A good stock of liquors and cigars.” It became a popular spot with holidayers from New Westminster. He was “not exactly married” to his companion, Frisadie, who “charms all sojourners at the ‘End of the Road.’”

George Miller Mayor of Vancouver, 1937-38 See Mayors of Vancouver.

Jonathan Miller III Vancouver’s first postmaster b. Sept. 5, 1834, Middlesex, Ont.; d. Dec. 6, 1913, Vancouver. Came to B.C. from Ontario in 1862. Settled in New Westminster, “engaged in mercantile pursuits,” later logging in 1865. About 1871, hired as tax collector/constable of Granville. Lived in Gaolers’s Mews police station (Water and Carrall) until 1886, a small government-built log cottage facing Cordova. Two small cells had doors but no locks. In 1886, offered the job of chief constable for the newly incorporated City of Vancouver but chose postmaster instead, a position he held to 1909.

Bill Miner (The Grey Fox, alias Bill Edwards) Train robber b. 1842 or 1847, Bowling Green, Kentucky; d. Sept. 2, 1913, Georgia State Penitentiary. Pulled Canada’s first train robbery, in Silverdale, 40 miles east of Vancouver on north bank of the Fraser, on Sept. 10, 1904. Described by Pinkerton Detective Agency as a “master criminal of the American West,” he spent 28 years in San Quentin. After a second train robbery (May 8, 1906), in Ducks near Kamloops, he received a life sentence in the B.C. Penitentiary but escaped Aug. 9, 1907. On Feb. 24, 1911, he attempted the first train robbery in Georgia, was caught, convicted and died in prison. Called “the gentleman robber.”

Alexander Mitchell First farmer in Greater Vancouver b. May 8, 1847, Masham County, Que.; d. May 16, 1931, Mitchell Island, B.C. Arrived in B.C. in April 1877; his wife and two small children arrived shortly after. Settled in Moodyville, later took out squatter’s rights as a pioneer resident of Richmond’s small Mitchell Island. Active in municipal politics, he represented Ward 3 of South Vancouver as councillor. Secretary of the school board, later councillor for Richmond’s Ward 5. Promoted the Fraser Ave. bridge. His second wife also died but his third wife survived him.

Alex (Alexander) Mitchell Owner, Stanley Park stables b. 1866, Bruce County, Ont.: d. April 1, 1948, Vancouver. Arrived in Vancouver on May 24, 1887. Hired as warehouseman and shipping clerk by Thomas Dunn and Co., a wholesale retail hardware store at 8 Cordova. In 1899, decided to start his own business. Bought Stanley Park Stables (Seymour and Dunsmuir), the taxi business of his day, with 86 horses, 40 rigs, seven hacks and two tallyhos. WWI and the popularity of the automobile led to bankruptcy in 1914. Worked for an ice delivery company in management until retirement.

Masumi Mitsui WWI hero b. Oct. 7, 1887, Japan; d. April 22, 1987, Vancouver. One of 196 local Japanese residents who volunteered for WWI. Of these, 145 men were killed or wounded. After leading his troop up Vimy Ridge, Sergeant Mitsui received the Military Medal for Bravery (April 1917), one of 12 Japanese to receive the honor in WWI. In 1942, his family was moved from their seven-hectare Port Coquitlam chicken farm and new house to an internment camp in Greenwood, B.C. In August 1985, Masumi was the honored guest at the relighting of the lantern in the Japanese Canadian War Memorial (built in 1925) in Stanley Park. The light was extinguished during the Pacific war.

Masajiro Miyazaki Doctor, community activist b. Nov. 24, 1899, Minamiaoyanaji-Mura, Inukamigun (now Hikone City), Japan; d. July 24, 1984, Kamloops, B.C. Arrived in Vancouver on June 29, 1913. Took part in UBC’s Great Trek (Oct. 22, 1922). Practised medicine in Vancouver until 1942 internment in Bridge River-Lillooet area. Served as doctor for 1,000 internees. In 1945, Lillooet petitioned for his release to replace its deceased doctor. The Miyazakis rented the main floor of the Casper Phair home. After Japanese residents were legally able to buy property, he bought the house. Awarded Scouting’s Medal of Merit (1970) and Order of Canada (1977). In 1983, he donated the Phair house as a heritage site. Biblio: My Sixty Years in Canada (1973).

Walter Moberly Explorer b. Aug 15, 1832, Steeple Ashton, Eng.; d. May 15, 1915, Vancouver. In 1858, he carried out the first exploration of B.C. by a professional civil engineer, later working on the Cariboo Road (1862-64). Elected MLA (Cariboo). Asked by Gov. Seymour to manage department of lands and works, he wrote the Land Act and drew up the Mining Act. Convinced Seymour to build a road along the Fraser to join the Yale Cariboo Road and Hope. After resigning as MLA, became B.C.’s assistant surveyor general. In 1865, discovered Eagle Pass and Illicilliwaet River, making a transcontinental railroad possible. In 1866, explored and mapped Columbia River Valley. In 1872, surveyed the Yellow Head Pass. “A resourceful and brave woodsman.”

Richard Clement Moody Engineer, colonel b. Feb. 13, 1813, St. Anne’s Garrison, Barbados; d. March 31, 1887, Bournemouth, Eng. Graduate of Royal Military Academy. Arrived in B.C. in January 1859, in command of Columbia Detachment of Royal Engineers to lay out townsites, roads, etc. Chose New Westminster as site for capital. Worked on major trails and Cariboo Road. Owned Mayfield, a model farm near New Westminster. Established townsite at Hastings (later absorbed into Vancouver). Returned to England on Nov. 11, 1863, when his detachment was recalled.

Sew (Sewell Prescott) Moody Sawmill owner b. c. 1835, Hartland, Maine; d. Nov. 4, 1875, at sea, near Victoria. “The father of North Vancouver.” After logging near New Westminster, he bought a Burrard Inlet sawmill on the North Shore in 1865, around which sprang up the community of Moodyville. Drowned when SS Pacific sank off Victoria on its way to San Francisco. “Sewell Moody was not an ostentatious man, to everyone, great and small, he was simply Sew Moody.” His only son was also Sewell Prescott Moody (b. c. 1874, Victoria; d. 1949, Victoria). See also Captain James Van Bramer.

William Moore Panoramic photographer b. Dec. 11, 1887, Bryson, Que.; d. Oct. 30, 1963, Burnaby. Came to Vancouver in 1912 from Banff where he worked with photographer Byron Harmon. Set up a studio at home on E. 21; later on Sophia. One of two panoramic photographers in the city, he specialized in photos 8″ high and up to 8′ wide. Took hundreds of views (1913-53) including English Bay, sporting events and city scapes. From 1920-46, photographed annual New Westminster May Day celebrations. His camera was a Kodak No. 8 Cirkut. He donated 370 Cirkut images to the Vancouver City Archives.

Alan Morley Journalist b. Aug. 15, 1905, Vancouver; d. Oct. 6, 1982, North Vancouver. Born in Vancouver but grew up in Armstrong and Penticton. First worked with father Harry, manager of the Sally Dam, in the Kettle Valley as mucker and miner. Put himself through UBC in early 1930s writing for the Vancouver Sun. Wrote for 21 other newspapers before returning to the Sun in 1957 until retirement in 1970. Author of Vancouver, From Milltown to Metropolis (1961).

John Morton Pioneer settler b. April 16, 1834, Lindley, Eng.; d. April 18, 1912, Vancouver. Landed at English Bay on Oct. 16, 1862, lured by tales of rich coal deposits. Instead found “a forest of husky timber standing along Burrard Inlet.” Built a brickyard with partners Samuel Brighouse and William Hailstone, together derisively nicknamed The Three Greenhorns. Used local clay, making him the first resident to manufacture a product in the area. The factory soon closed. With partners, bought 550 acres in what is now the West End, at $1 an acre. When the CPR arrived, “the Morton Ranch” proved a bonanza. On his death, his estate was worth $700,000.

Ruth Morton (née Mount) Early settler b. March 17, 1848, Yorkshire, Eng.; d. Dec. 14, 1939, Vancouver. Arrived in 1884 to marry John Morton, becoming the first white woman to settle in the area. When she arrived in New Westminster, the Burrard Inlet site of John Morton’s business activities was an almost untracked wilderness. Their first home was on English Bay. The Ruth Morton Memorial Baptist Church was named for her.

Don (Walter Alfred Donald) Munday Mountaineer b. March 16, 1890, Portage la Prairie, Man.; d. June 12, 1950, Vancouver. Climbed more B.C. mountains than any other mountaineer in his 40-year career. A war hero, he was wounded in his left arm in WWI and permanently disabled. Met equally daring wife Phyllis Munday scaling a peak. Married in 1920. They discovered Mt. Waddington, B.C.’s highest peak, in 1923, and made four attempts to reach the top, coming within 18 metres in 1926. Took part in many mountain rescue operations. Member, Alpine Club of Canada. President, Canadian Authors Association. His books include The Unknown Mountain.

Phyllis Munday (née James) Mountaineer b. 1895, Sri Lanka; d. April 11, 1990, Nanaimo. She came to Vancouver in 1901. Climbed Grouse Mountain at age 10. With husband Don Munday, did early backbreaking explorations of B.C. coastal mountains, notably Mt. Waddington. Made many first ascents of highest peaks in Coast Range. First woman to climb Mt. Robson (1924). A Girl Guider (1910-45), she began Vancouver’s first company (1910) with her mother. In 1924, founded the Lone Guides for girls in isolated areas. After retiring, named B.C.’s woodcraft and nature advisor. Awarded Bronze Cross for carrying an injured man down Grouse Mountain. LL.D (U. of Victoria); Member of Order of Canada (1975).

William George Murrin BCER president b. Aug. 27, 1875, London, Eng.; d. July 25, 1964, Vancouver. Worked with City of London Electric Lighting (1894-1901) and London United Tramways (1901-03). Joined B.C. Electric Railway (BCER) in 1913 as mechanical superintendent; president (1929-46). Active in the community, he received the Silver Acorn from the Greater Vancouver and District Boy Scout Council and was a life member of the Salvation Army (1958). A governor of UBC; LL.D (1957). President, Vancouver Art Gallery Association, Vancouver Little Theatre Association; member, Vancouver Symphony Society.