Alanson Harris facts for kids

Alanson Harris (born April 1, 1816 – died October 3, 1894) was an important Canadian businessman. He first worked as a sawmill operator. Later, he owned a company that made farm tools in Brantford, Ontario.

Alanson Harris was born in Ingersoll, Ontario, in 1816. His parents were John Harris and Catherine Jane Dygert. His family had roots in New York State.

Building a Business

Alanson Harris started his career in manufacturing. He moved to Brantford, Ontario, in the 1870s. There, he created a company called A. Harris, Son and Company Limited. This company made tools for farms.

His factory was first on Market Street South. Later, it moved to Colborne Street.

A Family Legacy

Alanson's son, John Harris, played a big part in making the company grow. The business became very successful.

In 1891, A. Harris, Son and Company Limited joined with a rival company. This was Hart Massey's Massey Manufacturing. Together, they formed Massey-Harris. This new company grew into the huge farm machinery company known today as Massey Ferguson.

Alanson Harris passed away in 1894. He is buried at Greenwood Cemetery. His family continued to make a mark in Canada. Another son, Elmore Harris, became a well-known pastor in Toronto. His grandson, Lawren Harris, and great-grandson, Lawren P. Harris, were famous artists.

Where Harris Products Were Made

Alanson Harris's company had several important locations over the years:

• The company operated in Beamsville, Ontario, from 1857 to 1881.
• In Brantford, Ontario, factories were located at:
  • George Street and Colborne Street East starting in 1881.
  • South Market Street (south of Icomm Drive) from 1882 to 1964.
  • Henry Street and Wayne Gretzky Parkway (Park Road North) from 1964 to 1988.
    • Parts of the 225 Henry Street location are now used by other businesses.