Learn a little of Toronto's history as told through its plaques.

William Hume Blake 1809-1870

Photos by Alan L Brown - March 2004

Solidly screwed into the concrete here in the centre of a park on Humewood Drive is an Ontario Heritage Trust plaque. Here's what it says:

A leading member of the Upper Canadian Bar, first professor of common and civil law at King's College, Toronto, William Hume Blake was born in Kiltegan, Ireland, and settled in Upper Canada in 1832. He became a prominent advocate of the Baldwins' principle of "responsible government" and was elected to the legislative assembly in 1847. As Solicitor-General for Canada West, 1848-1849, he introduced important legal reforms, notably the reorganization of the Court of Chancery. Blake, as Chancellor of Canada West, 1849-1862, used his legal prestige and ability to help establish the authority of this court. His son, Edward Blake, 1833-1912, became the second premier of Ontario and led the federal Liberal Party, 1879-1887. This park formed part of William Blake's estate, "Humewood".

Related Ontario plaque page
Honourable Edward Blake 1833-1912

Plaque Location Co-ordinates: N 43 41.027 W 79 25.568

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Posted November 17, 2009
why did william blake not like the industry revolution

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