Career
Reford emigrated to Canada and became one of the most successful businessmen of his generation. Perhaps best known for his shipping interests, he amassed a fortune based on a variety of business pursuits from Montreal. Born 1831 at Spring Farm, Moylinny, Company
Antrim.
He was the son of Joseph Reford (1794-1834) and Grizel (Grace) Simonton Wilson. His father had owned three linen mills and the largest bleach works in Ireland, established a century before by Reford"s great-grandfather, a prominent Quaker. On leaving Ballycraigy that night, Reford"s father had lost his entire business empire.
Penniless, Joseph was forced to become an apprentice to a cabinetmaker, while Chaine rocketed to fabulous wealth.
In 1845, Mrs Reford took her remaining three children, including Robert, to Toronto.
