Anson Dodge: A Life in Lumber and Politics
Anson Greene Phelps Dodge, born on August 25, 1834, in New York City, was a prominent figure in both the lumber industry and Canadian politics. His journey from America to Canada is marked by significant achievements, challenges, and a lasting legacy. Dodge represented York North in the House of Commons of Canada for a brief period during the early 1870s as a member of the Conservative Party. His life story encapsulates the complexities of migration, entrepreneurship, and public service during a transformative era in North America.
Early Life and Education
Anson Dodge was born to William E. Dodge and Melissa Phelps. His father was deeply involved in the lumber business, which would later influence Anson’s career choices. The family background provided him with an understanding of the timber trade from an early age. Dodge received his education in England, which likely broadened his perspectives beyond the American landscape. In 1859, he married Rebecca Wainwright Grew, signaling the beginning of his personal life that would intertwine with his professional pursuits.
Embarking on a Lumber Career
Dodge began his career in the lumber industry in 1864 at Williamsport, Pennsylvania. His initial foray into this field marked the start of a significant chapter in his life. In 1866, he was drawn to Ontario’s forests after receiving an invitation from Henry W. Sage, who was involved with timber operations in the region. This invitation led Dodge to explore various lumber mills and timber berths across Ontario.
By 1869, he established the Georgian Bay Lumber Company, setting up a mill at Byng Inlet. His ambitions did not stop there; he also partnered with John Classon Miller to form the Parry Sound Lumber Company in 1872. However, Dodge’s rapid expansion into the Canadian lumber market came with financial risks. The Panic of 1873 severely impacted his ventures, leading to bankruptcy and forcing him to sell his stake in the Parry Sound firm by 1877.
Political Aspirations: A Brief Stint in Parliament
Anson Dodge’s entry into Canadian politics was driven by both ambition and necessity. After establishing himself in Ontario, he was encouraged by local associates to run for office as a representative for York North in the House of Commons. However, as an American citizen who had not resided in Canada long enough to qualify for naturalization, Dodge faced significant hurdles.
To resolve this issue, an act of Parliament was enacted in June 1872 that allowed him to become a naturalized citizen just before the general election held later that year. Dodge managed to win the election but soon found himself embroiled in controversy when it was revealed that a character reference he published—a letter from a clergyman—was forged. Although he navigated this scandal successfully, his tenure in Parliament was short-lived; he chose not to stand for re-election in January 1874 and returned to the United States.
A Return to Georgia: The Family Lumber Business
Upon returning to America after his political endeavor, Anson Dodge resumed his involvement with the family lumber business in Georgia. His father had been a significant player in this industry since the 1830s, acquiring extensive tracts of timber land across Pennsylvania and later Georgia after the Civil War. Anson took charge of The Georgia Land and Lumber Company and oversaw operations that included thousands of acres of timberland.
The legislative changes introduced in 1877 required businesses operating within Georgia to incorporate within state lines; however, Anson circumvented these changes by transferring ownership of the company to another family member. After about six years managing operations in Georgia, Anson eventually moved on from this venture. He reportedly attempted to set up a logging business in Minnesota but left little trace behind.
Later Years: Family Life and Legacy
After his first marriage ended around 1883, Anson remarried Rose Voorhees in 1886. Together they had two children: Anson Jr. and Julia Voorhees Dodge. Following his retirement to Danville, Illinois, he became known as General A.G.P. Dodge and constructed a mansion that tragically burned down shortly after its completion during a party.
In terms of personal legacy, Anson’s son Anson Jr.’s elopement with cousin Ellen Ada Dodge made headlines across national papers; their story culminated in
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