Ownership of the
Battersby Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in Simcoe, changed hands on
Monday, the new proprietor being H. E. Peer, of Toronto.
The hotel was built
approximately 60 years ago by George Battersby, who formerly was
proprietor of the Norfolk Hotel.
After operating it
for a number of years he sold out to his brother-in-law, John Dickson.
For a number of
years a livery stable was operated in connection with the hotel but in
1889 the stable burned. When re-built the entire building was used for
hotel purposes.
In 1881 William
Battersby, son of George Battersby, took over the business and in 1906
he sold out to Len Brady who ran it for 18 years.
In 1924 Fed Lockard
bought it and had he kept possession of for three more days he would
have completed 14 years ownership.
The new proprietor,
Mr. Peer, was for 18 years connected with the Good Year Tire and Rubber
Company. He managed both the Toronto and Winnipeg branches and for 10
years was in charge of all branches in Canada.
He is
secretary-treasurer of Canada Foundings and Forgings and also interested
in other companies.
He served two years
in the Royal Flying Corps during the Great War and in 1918 was seriously
wounded when his plane was shut down.
It is expected that
Mrs. Peer and their two sons, Peter and Michael, will take up residence
in Simcoe next month.
