Origin of Perth County, Ontario Place Names

Metropolitan - Munro

SOURCE:
History of Perth County
1825-1902 Chapter IX

by William Johnston

printed in 1903 by
W. M. O'Beirne at the
Beacon Office, Stratford

Metropolitan, Ontario

In Blanshard, was named by John H. Donaldson, a school teacher in the neighborhood. A temperance hall was erected on the opposite corner from the school building. Mr. Donaldson, considering these progressive movements as evidence of a great metropolis, named it Metropolitan. This office was opened in 1875, with William Spence as postmaster.

Millbank, Ontario

In Mornington, was founded by Mr. Freeborn, who was first settler and derives its name from a mill being erected on the bank that bordered the stream. This office was opened in 1850 by William Rutherford, who was first postmaster.

Milverton, Ontario

Also in Mornington, was first known as West's Corners, after the name of an early settler. Subsequently a more euphonious name was desired by the people, and at a public meeting called for the purpose, it was called Milverton, at the suggestion of Rev. P. Musgrave, in honor of his birthplace in the old land. This office was opened in 1854, with D. Matthews as first postmaster.

Molesworth, Ontario

In Wallace, bears the name of Sir William Molesworth, who was Colonial Secretary in 1855. This office was opened in 1870, with Samuel Lougheed as first postmaster.

Mitchell, Ontario

Now the town of Mitchell, received its name from a person called Mitchell who built a small shanty on the river bank, where travellers found shelter and lodging. Between Seebach's and Rattenbury's at Clinton, "Mitchell's" was the only place of entertainment. This office was opened about 1842 with John Hicks as first postmaster. (I have been able to obtain no further data regarding the name of this place, which, taken in connection with other circumstances coming under my observation, I believe is correct.)

Monkton, Ontario

The postoffice was opened in 1858 by Edward Greensides as postmaster.

Motherwell, Ontario

In Fullarton, received its name from James Brown, who was for many years one of the most prominent men of the municipality. Mr. Brown with his family were among the first settlers in this section and came originally from Lanark in the eastern part of this Province. The name Motherwell was given to this office as being the name of the old home of Mr. Brown's family, in Lanarkshire, Scotland. This office was opened in 1865, James Brown, sr., first postmaster.

Munro, Ontario

Also in Fullarton was named in honor of William Munro, who made every effort to accommodate the neighborhood by distributing mail matter in the district. This office was opened in 1889, with Mr. Munro as first postmaster.