Thomas David Morrison

Who was Thomas David Morrison?

Thomas David Morrison was a doctor and political figure in Upper Canada.

He was born in Quebec City around 1796. He served as a clerk in the medical department of the British army during the War of 1812. He studied medicine in the United States and, on his return in 1824, was licensed to practice medicine in Upper Canada. In 1828, he ran unsuccessfully to represent the town of York in the provincial assembly. In 1834, he was elected to the first city council for Toronto. He was elected to the 12th and 13th Parliaments of Upper Canada representing the 3rd riding of York County. In 1836, he served a one year term as mayor of Toronto.

Although Morrison had been an early supporter of the reform position in Upper Canada and the actions taken by reformers in Lower Canada, he did not support William Lyon Mackenzie's revolt. However, in April 1838, he was charged with treason, but found not guilty. At the end of the trial, he left for the United States, concerned about being charged with a lesser offence. In 1843, when an amnesty was granted, he returned to Toronto from Batavia, New York and resumed his medical practice. He worked at the Toronto School of Medicine upon his return.