1852-1856: Donald Matheson, West Zorra

Donald Matheson, West Zorra

Born about 1808 in Sutherlandshire, Scotland, Donald Matheson was Reeve of West Zorra Township from 1850-1858, and served as Warden for the County from 1852-1856. On July 24, 1858 the village of Embro became a separate Municipality and he served as on its first Council. From 1868-1879 he served as Reeve of the Village of Embro. In 1840, he was named postmaster when an office was opened in Embro and upon his retired as postmaster, his daughter, Mary, took over as postmistress. He also served as Clerk for the County of Oxford Division Court No. 3 (West Zorra and East Nissouri).

In 1885, he sold property in Embro to the Township of West Zorra, which in turn, was rented to the Agricultural Society. This area came to be known as Matheson Park. Donald Matheson also provide land for the Knox Presbyterian Church. 

Donald Matheson would pass away on June 23, 1884 at the age of 76.