John Douglas Moore, deceased, was born in the Township of Dumfries, in 1838.   Mr. Moore was in no sense a pioneer of St Marys, but to him belongs the distinction of introducing a system which marks an era in the commerce of this country.   He was a son of the shanty, and, like many such. had great obstacles to overcome in his way to success.   His education was limited, and realizing this condition, he often regretted in after life that he had not availed himself to a greater extent of the facilities within his reach.

He continued on the farm until 1867, when he removed to St. Marys, entering on his career as a promoter and successful operator of a new system of egg storage.   This method has now attained great prominence, and is of vast consequence to Canada.   Its importance to the husbandman will be recognised when we say that previous to its introduction this product of our farms had no commercial value, and could not be sold for money.   Old pioneers will remember when it became known that Mr. Moore would pay money for fruit of this description, that the females of every house- hold extended their investigations to the most remote corners of the farm buildings in search of this new source of income.   He was also first to pay money for butter.   This product was formerly sold to store-keepers for goods over the counter, a most unsatisfactory system for all parties concerned He also constructed the first cold storage warehouse west of Montreal, which proved a great success.

Mr. Moore was unpretentious in manner, although somewhat daring as a speculator.   He was a large employer of labour, and highly respected by those under his charge.   In politics a Reformer, in religion a Presbyterian, temperate, industrious, and kindly in his manner, intensely devoted to the "roaring play," which he continued to enjoy until the last.   He took an active part in municipal affairs, and sat at the council board for a period of eight years.   He died in 1902 and was much regretted, being one of St. Marys' great men.

From History of Perth County 1825-1902 by William Johnston, 1903.