Simeon Perkins | The Canadian Encyclopedia

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Simeon Perkins

Simeon Perkins, merchant, diarist (b at Norwich, Conn 24 Feb 1735; d at Liverpool, NS 9 May 1812). He arrived in Liverpool in 1762 and rapidly became the leading local merchant, dealing in fish and lumber, building sawmills and

Perkins, Simeon

 Simeon Perkins, merchant, diarist (b at Norwich, Conn 24 Feb 1735; d at Liverpool, NS 9 May 1812). He arrived in Liverpool in 1762 and rapidly became the leading local merchant, dealing in fish and lumber, building sawmills and small vessels, and developing a trade with New England and the West Indies. During the AMERICAN REVOLUTION he invested profitably in several Liverpool privateers. His ability, integrity and charity resulted in a long civic career in local administrative and judicial offices. He also held high rank in the militia. He served as MLA for Queens County 1765-99 and, although his attendance was intermittent, he was quietly effective. His diary (1766-1812), published in 5 volumes by the CHAMPLAIN SOCIETY, and his home, now a museum, are valuable records of a man whose career reflects Nova Scotia's economic, social and political beginnings.

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