Who was William McMaster?

McMaster's namesake – businessman, politician and banker Senator William McMaster –
isn't exactly unknown, but in the lead up to the 125th anniversary of the institution's
founding, the McMaster Alumni Association wants to ensure that the community knows
all
about the remarkable man.

Born in County Tyrone, Ireland, McMaster came to Canada with no money, no friends
and
little education. Working as a clerk in a dry goods firm, McMaster quickly proved
himself to
employer Robert Cathcart, who, within a year or two of McMaster's arrival, made him
his
business partner. When Cathcart retired, McMaster took over the business.

In 1862 McMaster entered politics, getting himself elected as the Liberal representative
for
Midland. He was later appointed to the first dominion Senate and remained a member
for
the rest of his life.

“He was truly a self-made man and accomplished much of what he did through hard
work
and merit, which is fitting considering the values that the University tries to instill in its
students,” said Karen McQuigge, director of Alumni Advancement. “With the 125th
anniversary of the University's founding only a year away, we really want to educate the
community about what sort of person McMaster was.”

At the urging of his wife, Susan Moulton McMaster, the Senator endorsed a campaign
for
an independent Baptist institution offering both theology and liberal arts. A bill
allowing for
the union of Woodstock College and Toronto Baptist College was introduced in March
of
1887 and on April 7 McMaster made out a will leaving an endowment of $900,000 for
the
university. McMaster University was born when the bill was assented to on April 23.
McMaster died September 22, 1887

“I think hed be proud of the world-class institution the University has become,” said
McQuigge, who is part of a team planning for the milestone anniversary. “That's why
it's
important not only to recognize McMasters founding, but also the man who made it all
possible.”