Happy Birthday to Paris’ founder – Hiram Capron

PARIS PAST

Happy Birthday to Paris’ founder – Hiram Capron

On February 12th, we celebrate the birthday of Hiram Capron, the visionary founder of Paris. Capron's contributions to the development and establishment of this vibrant town are truly remarkable. Let us take a moment to honour his legacy and recognize his significant achievements.

The story of Hiram Capron, is a tale of ambition, family, and community. Soon after his arrival in Long Point, Capron's path crossed with that of a young woman named Mary De Long Their encounter in March 1823 marked the beginning of a profound relationship, and less than a year later, in February 1824, they were wed. Paris became the backdrop for their journey as they embarked on raising a family and building a life together.

As Capron established roots in Paris, he dedicated himself to the development of the land, transforming it from a collection of mills and businesses into a thriving village. His focus centered on facilitating access to Paris for settlers and providing them with the necessary amenities for a comfortable life. One of his

initial projects involved creating the first town plan for Paris In 1829, he enlisted the services of Lewis Burwell, a renowned surveyor. Burwell meticulously laid out the town's streets and produced the inaugural town maps. Along these streets, Capron sold plots of land to settlers, sometimes even giving land away for free to encourage the transformation of the area into a thriving town

Although Capron did not possess a fervent passion for politics, his role as the town's founder thrust him into the limelight as one of the early prominent figures in local governance. He served as the first Reeve when Paris attained official incorporation as a village and became one of the initial town councilors. Additionally, he had the honor of naming the town

itself, which initially bore the cumbersome moniker "Forks of the Grand River" Recognizing the impracticality of such a lengthy name, Capron convened a town meeting and proposed renaming the town "Paris," owing to the abundant beds of plaster of Paris found in the area. Capron's proposal triumphed, and henceforth, "Paris" became the town's official name. Capron's legacy extended far beyond his lifetime, leaving an impression on the town he had nurtured His commitment to Paris was evident not only in his entrepreneurial endeavors and civic leadership but also in his genuine care for its residents. Capron's generosity was renowned, and he actively supported various community initiatives and individuals in need.

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Photos: Hiram Capron & Mary De Long – Paris Museum

PARIS PAST

While his businesses faced challenges, Capron's spirit remained resilient. He adapted to the changing economic landscape and explored new opportunities to sustain his enterprises Despite the setbacks caused by the financial panic and trade restrictions in 1857, he continued to contribute to the growth and prosperity of Paris.

Beyond his business acumen, Capron fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie within the community. He played a pivotal role in establishing social institutions, organizing community events, and promoting cultural activities Capron's vision extended beyond mere economic development; he aimed to create a town that thrived in both material and social aspects.

In the annals of Paris's history, Hiram Capron's name became synonymous with the town itself. His contributions shaped the physical landscape, the economic vitality, and the social fabric of

Paris. The town owed much of its growth and progress to his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication

Even today, as Paris continues to evolve, Capron's legacy remains visible. The streets he laid out in the original town plan still bear his imprint, guiding residents and visitors through the town's rich history. The values of community, generosity, and perseverance that he embodied continue to inspire the current generation of Parisians.

Hiram Capron's story serves as a testament to the power of a single individual's vision and determination in transforming a place into a thriving community. His legacy reminds us that the true essence of a town lies not only in its physical structures but in the spirit and dedication of its residents.

As Paris moves forward into the future, it is important to reflect on the foundations laid by Capron and

to honor his memory by upholding the values he cherished. The town's continued growth and prosperity will depend on the collective efforts of its residents, who, like Capron, must embrace a spirit of unity, innovation, and community engagement.

In conclusion, Hiram Capron's journey from a newcomer to the founder of Paris is a story of ambition, family, and communitybuilding. His contributions to the town's development, both as a businessman and a civic leader, have left an enduring legacy.

Capron's vision, generosity, and dedication continue to inspire generations of Parisians, reminding us of the power of individual initiative and collective action in shaping a community's destiny.

Paris stands today as a testament to Capron's enduring impact, a town that bears his spirit of continuous growth and the values he held dear.