Commemoration

Provincial

Born in nearby Enniskillen, McLaughlin apprenticed in his father’s Oshawa carriage-works when he was sixteen.  Convinced of the potential for growth of the automabile industry, he established in 1907 the McLaughlin Motor Car Company, the first major automobile manufacturer in Canada.  This company became part of General Motors in 19198 with McLaughlin as president of the Canadian company and a vice-president of the American corporation.  A noted philanthropist, he provided funds to build the McLaughlin Planetarium at Toronto, erect buildings at Queen’s University, Kingston and endow a medical foundation.  His mansion, “park wood,” begun in 1916 was designed by the Toronto architectural firm of Darling and Pearson.  This notable house and distinguished gardens were bequeathed to the Oshawa General Hospital in 1972.

National

A famous industrialist and philanthropist, “Colonel Sam” McLaughlin was founder o the automotive industry in Canada.  Involved in the design and manufacture of carriages and sleighs for his family business, he foresaw the importance of the automobile and adapted the mcLaughlin Carriage Works for automotive production.  He partnered with Buick Motor Company in 1907 and later with Chevrolet.  In 1918, his companies were incorporated into General Motors of Canada.  His shrewd business skills led to a vice-presidency at the American parent company, confirming his strong ties with this industrial giant, and his leadership of it in both countries