Henry LeMessurier facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Henry LeMessurier
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Member of the Newfoundland House of Assembly | |
In office 1885–1889 |
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Constituency | Burin |
Personal details | |
Born |
Henry William LeMessurier
August 19, 1848 St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador |
Died | May 27, 1931 St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador |
(aged 82)
Political party | Reform |
Spouse |
Elizabeth Arnott
(m. 1872) |
Occupation | Civil servant, politician |
Henry William LeMessurier (born August 19, 1848 – died May 27, 1931) was an important person in Newfoundland. He worked for the government and was also a politician. He was a member of the Newfoundland House of Assembly (which is like a parliament) for the area called Burin. He served from 1885 to 1889 and was part of the Reform Party.
Early Life and Career
Henry William LeMessurier was born in St. John's on August 19, 1848. His father was Henry C. LeMessurier. Henry went to school at the General Protestant Academy in St. John's.
In 1872, on February 12, he married Elizabeth Arnott. Henry started his career working as a clerk. He worked for the British army's supply department. In 1870, he decided to start his own business.
Public Service and Politics
In 1879, Henry LeMessurier became a justice of the peace. This meant he had the power to settle minor legal issues.
He was elected to the Newfoundland House of Assembly in 1885. He represented the area of Burin. He served as a politician until 1889. When he tried to be re-elected in 1889, he was not successful.
After his time in politics, he worked as an editor for a newspaper called the Evening Herald. Later, he joined the customs department. This department collects taxes on goods coming into the country. He became the deputy minister of customs. This was a very important job, and he stayed in that role until he retired in 1928.
Other Interests and Legacy
Henry LeMessurier was interested in history. He gave talks about historical topics. He also wrote articles for a magazine called the Newfoundland Quarterly.
He helped bring the sport of curling to Newfoundland. He was even the president of the St. John's Curling Association.
Henry LeMessurier was honored for his work. He was named a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George. This is a special award given for public service.
He passed away in St. John's in 1931.
Henry LeMessurier is also known for something special. Many people believe he wrote the popular Newfoundland folk song "The Ryans and the Pittmans". This song is sometimes called "We'll Rant and We'll Roar".