Luther H. Holton

In the mid-nineteenth century, the name Luther H. Holton was as familiar to Canadians as those of Alexander T. Galt or Antoine A. Dorion. A Montreal resident for most of his life, Holton rose from humble origins to become a remarkable entrepreneur, playing a significant role in the development of a steamboat line and the building of a railway. He helped to establish important businesses in marine engines, banking, and real estate. From the success of his various business ventures, he moved easily into the world of politics. Luther Holton was finance minister of the United Province of Canada from 1863 to 1864, leading the battle to reform the finance department and to enhance the province's credit in London, England. Originally opposed to the union of the British North American provinces, Holton became a firm supporter of confederation and helped to launch Canadian constitutional policy in directions that are still felt today. He shared with other influential figures, especially Wilfrid Laurier, the recognition that the young Dominion had to avoid cultural conflicts and to provide opportunities for the fledgling Canadian national economy to develop. Drawing from wide-ranging archival sources, many never before used, Henry Klassen has created a fascinating portrait of this extraordinary man who played such a significant role in the shaping of Canada.