Robert Wilkes
Robert Wilkes (June 24, 1832 – August 16, 1880) was an Irish-Canadian politician and businessman. Born in Tullaghan, County Leitrim, Ireland, Wilkes came to Toronto from his native Ireland at sixteen, working as a clerk before buying a jewelry firm, Rossin Brothers, which he expanded into a cross-country operation. He later invested in railroads, and in 1871 he was appointed director of the Canadian Bank of Commerce.
Robert Wilkes | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Member of the Canadian Parliament for Toronto Centre | |
| In office 1872–1874 | |
| Preceded by | District was created in 1872 |
| Succeeded by | John Macdonald |
| Personal details | |
| Born | June 24, 1832 Tullaghan, County Leitrim, Ireland |
| Died | August 16, 1880 (aged 48) Sturgeon Point, Ontario |
| Political party | Liberal |
In 1872 he was elected Member of Parliament for Toronto Centre, as a Liberal. The election was regarded by observers on both sides as rife with enmity, bribery and corruption.[1] In 1874 he was re-elected, but the return was voided and he retired from politics.
References
- Donald Swainson, "Robert Wilkes" Dictionary of Canadian Biography online, 2000
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