John Fisher

Who was John Fisher?

John Fisher, iron founder, manufacturer, was a politician, both in Canada and the United States. He had one son.

Born in Londonderry, New Hampshire, Fisher moved to Hamilton, Ontario, Canada in 1835, when he established what is believed to have been the first foundry in the city, on the northwest corner of James and Merrick streets, Fisher designed and manufactured the first threshing machines in Canada, basing his ideas on a 1786 model designed by a Scot. He expanded the business with his cousin Calvin McQuesten, they formed a partnership with two other men, to manage the foundry, with McQuesten remaining in the United States to gain additional necessary funds.

The firm experienced difficulties getting established In 1836 Fisher was forced to sell some assets, lay off workers, and seek loans. In the following year, anti-American sentiment was high, owing to the support given by the United States to William Lyon Mackenzie, and it found expression in a refusal to pay bills and threats to burn the foundry. Fisher was ready to leave, but McQuesten convinced him to remain.