Mr.
Joseph Coates
Mr. Joseph Coates is
Simcoe's senior business man. He was born 27 Oct 1843 in Yorkshire,
England, and came here with his father when he was eight years old.
The father, the late Thos.
Coates, came to Simcoe to be foreman in the carriage-making shop of
Jonathan and John S. Austin. Afterwards he engaged in the same
business for himself. And Joseph Coates served his apprenticeship,
as a wagon-maker, under his father.
In 1863 he started for
himself in the North Ward, his shop being situated at what is best
known as "Polley's Corner."
In 1880 he added undertaking
in his carriage-making business, and this latter department has come
finally to engage his attention exclusively.
His friends are glad to
think that his business activities have not gone unrewarded, and
that he has found some profit from his labors.
Mr. Coates has been a good
citizen and enjoys the respect of our people.
