Lanark County logging. Hauling squared timber to rivers. Negative No. C19837, Public Archives of Canada. Perth Remembered

The first men to start the lumber business here in Lanark County were all of Scottish blood. There were the Gillies, Caldwell, Gilmour, McLaren and others. They were a hardy, determined, ambitious and honest. But, all were exponents of their national virtue- thrift.

One day one of these earliest pioneers was approached in his office by a local young man looking for a position as a wood foreman. Hat in hand, he respectfully, but earnestly told of his experiences, which were ample. He also added diplomatically that he believed the firm was the best one on the Mississippi River to work for.

The old gent had listened intently, his hand cupped behind his ear, as he was slightly deaf. He answered,

“O aye fine, and how much wages would you be expecting?”

“Well, sir, I thought $12.00 a month would be fair,” said the applicant.

The great man recoiled as if he had been slapped in the face.

“Twelve dollars a month! Better if I take ye in as partner, it’s more than I make!”

And so go the past tales of life and work on the Mississippi River.