The Paris Independent
13
February 17, 2024
PA R I S PA S T In Honour of Family Day, Here are some of the More Prominent Families in Paris, History
Paris, Ontario, has a rich history with several prominent families who have played significant roles in shaping the community. These families have made lasting contributions to the development, growth, and cultural heritage of Paris. Here are some of the most prominent families in Paris, Ontario's history: The Capron Family: Hiram Capron, the founder of Paris, had a family that played a significant role in the development and influence of the area. Let's take a closer look at his family members: Mary De Long Capron (wife): Hiram Capron married Mary De Long in February 1824. Mary was by his side as they raised their family in Paris, contributing to the growth and development of the town. Banfield was the name of one of Hiram Capron's sons. It was also the name of Hiram Capron's great, great grandfather. William Street, Charlotte Street, Helen Street and Emily Street were also named in honour of Hiram Capron’s children. Daughter Jane Capron, "the last living link
between the village and the town", longtime influence on the area. died in 1934 at the age of 95. The Hamilton Family: played a significant role in the growth and prosperity of Paris. They were known for their classic mansion and cobblestone homestead, which witnessed numerous social events and hospitality. The Hamiltons contributed to the economic development of the town, Photo: House built for the Capron’s particularly through their Daughter Jane. AKA the Dollhouse involvement in the plaster mill and David Capron (brother): David distillery. joined Hiram in the family business in 1823 and likely played a role in Paul Wickson, also known as P.G. the improvements made on Wickson, was a renowned artist Governor's Road. who made significant contributions to the art scene in Paris, Ontario, Horace Capron (brother): Canada. Born on July 28, 1859, in Hiram's brother Horace also joined Toronto, Wickson spent most of his the family in Paris. He became life in Paris, where he became wellinvolved in the family business and known for his artistic talent. assisted Hiram in his efforts to Wickson married Elizabeth improve Governor's Road. Hamilton (Norman Hamilton’s daughter) and they lived their lives Otis Capron (brother): Another in the homestead known as brother, Otis Capron, joined Hiram Hamilton Place, which became a in Paris. However, there is limited hub for his artistic endeavors. information available about his specific contributions to the area. The Farrell Family: The Farrell family contributed to the Walter Capron (nephew): came to infrastructure of Paris by Paris later and established his own constructing the railway bridge businesses. He started as a grain over the Grand River. This bridge, trader using the newly-built railway spanning a distance of 780 feet, and later became a liquor seller. was a remarkable engineering feat Walter also served as a longtime at the time. Mr. Farrell, the builder, town councilor, further even survived a fall from the bridge emphasizing the Capron family’s during its construction.
