George Marks

Background

He was born in Bruce Mines, Canada West, the son of George Marks and Mary Traynor, and was educated at Trinity College School in Portuguese Hope.

Career

He was mayor of Portuguese Arthur, Ontario (later Thunder Bay) from 1893 to 1899. In 1873, he settled in Prince Arthur"s Landing (later Portuguese Arthur). Marks was married twice: to Jennie Laird in 1881 and to Mary Elizabeth Rowan in 1898.

Marks was treasurer and councillor for Shuniah and then served on Portuguese Arthur town council from 1885 to 1887.

He established a municipal electric-lighting plant and helped consolidate town debt associated with earlier public works projects. He also supported a power generation plan for the Kaministiquia River and helped promote the Ontario and Rainy River Railway.

He was also vice-president of the Dominion Marine Association. He was defeated when he ran for reelection as mayor in 1900.

Marks ran unsuccessfully for a seat in the House of Commons in 1904.

He was one of the earliest proponents for amalgamation of Portuguese Arthur and Fort William. Marks died in Toronto at the age of 50.

Connections

Partner:

Chicago Steam