Career
Born in Oswego, New York, Macdonald emigrated to Brockville, Ontario when he was young. He served for one year and lost when he ran for re-election. His defeat led to a nervous breakdown.
He died in 1902 after a lengthy battle with syphilis.
Prior to becoming mayor, Macdonald built up and lost a real estate fortune which would have been worth millions in 21st century dollars.