Mather Byles Almon
Mather Byles Almon | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1796 Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada |
| Died | 1871-07-30 Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada |
| Occupation(s) | Banker, politician, philanthropist |
| Years active | 1820s–1870 |
| Known for | Founder and president of the Bank of Nova Scotia; member of Nova Scotia legislative and executive councils; governor of Dalhousie University and King's College |
Mather Byles Almon (1796 – 30 July 1871) was a prominent Canadian figure known for his contributions as a banker, politician, and philanthropist.
Originating from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Almon was instrumental in founding the Bank of Nova Scotia and held the position of its president between 1837 and 1870. He significantly influenced the governance of Halifax and Nova Scotia by serving on both the legislative and executive councils. Initially a Tory supporter, he shifted allegiance in 1864 to join the Anti-Confederation Party.
Early life, family, and early career
Born in Halifax in 1796 to William James Almon and Rebecca Byles—descendants of loyalist heritage—Almon launched a general and wholesale business during the 1820s in Halifax. He acted as an insurance agent for the Halifax Fire Insurance Company and was a founding member of the Halifax Marine Insurance Association established in 1838. Additionally, he represented multiple British enterprises.
During the 1830s, Almon became active in local governance and served as a representative of Halifax’s merchant community in discussions with Governor-General John Lambton, 1st Earl of Durham in 1838.
Bank of Nova Scotia and political career
Almon played a founding role in the creation of the Bank of Nova Scotia in 1832, joining its inaugural board before assuming presidency in 1837. He expanded his financial interests throughout Canadian provinces and the United States, concentrating on mortgage lending and personal credit within Nova Scotia. His investments included shares in a coal mining operation in Pictou County managed by an American firm and involvement with the British Acadia Iron Company. In 1842, he was named governor of Dalhousie University.
His appointments to Nova Scotia’s legislative and executive councils occurred in 1843, provoking some resignations due to concerns over Tory predominance. Following a Liberal electoral win, he stepped down from his council role in 1848. Except for one year, he held the governorship of King's College from 1854 until 1871.
Almon remained aligned with Tory political efforts until 1864 when he departed to support anti-Confederation initiatives. Declining health led to his resignation as bank president in 1870 after failing eyesight hindered his ability to endorse banknotes.
Personal life and death
On 31 January 1825, Almon married Sophia Pryor; together they had fourteen children, five of whom passed away during childhood.
He died on 30 July 1871 and was interred at St. John's Cemetery in Halifax. At the time of his passing, his estate was appraised at $616,000 ().