1907: William Holmes

William Holmes, South Norwich

William Holmes was born on January 21, 1857 in East Zorra Township, to Donald and Christina Holmes. In 1879, he married Janet Murray. For many years, Mr. Holmes was a farmer on Lot 13, Concession 8 Township of South Norwich before becoming Postmaster of Otterville (a position he held for 19 years). A prominent Liberal, he served as Reeve for the Township of South Norwich for 5 years, trustee for 20 years and as a village trustee for several years. In 1907, he was elected Warden. 

He was one of the oldest members of Tecumseh Lodge, I.O.O.F., of which he was a member for more than 40 years. He was also an active member of the United Church and was an elder for the last few years of his life. He passed away at his home, in his 83rd year, on August 10, 1940, and is buried in the Otterville Cemetery.