William Mercer Wilson
"One of the most prominent Canadian figures of his time. Attained great
eminence in political, military, municipal, legal and Masonic circles. Born in Scotland in
1813. Came to Canada in 1832. Was appointed a commissioner to hold courts of justice in
the Talbot District in 1834. Took a leading part in quelling the Rebellion of 1837-8,
being cavalry commander at Simcoe with the rank of captain. In 1840 was appointed public
notary and registrar of the Surrogate Court. The same year he was admitted as a Mason at
St. John's and in 1842 became Master of the Lodge, a post he held at intervals for ten
years. Five years later was enrolled as a Royal Arch. Mason, and in 1857 was entered in
the Supreme Grand Chapter of Masons. In 1873 was elected first Grand Master of the Grand
Lodge of Canada. Received the degree of barrister-at-law from the Law Society of Upper
Canada in 1852. Later was appointed County Crown Attorney for Norfolk and finally County
Judge in 1868, succeeding William Salmon. Was active in municipal affairs, being
councillor and reeve in Simcoe town council, and Warden of
Norfolk. Retired from militia in 1869
with rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. Died during his eleventh year as Grand Master, 16th
January, 1875, in his 62nd year."
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