While probably best known in Britain as an author, writing was just one of John Galt's interests and activities.
In Canada he is better known as one of the founders of the Canada Company, set up to encourage emigration to what was then known as Upper Canada. Galt was the founder of Guelph and Goderich - two successful settlements in the area.
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| Plaque commemorating John Galt, Founder of Guelph 1827 |
What is often forgotten is that John Galt was also a lobbyist - helping to ensure that the legislation to allow the construction of the Edinburgh and Glasgow Union Canal which opened in 1822. This was just one of the many successful Parliamentary efforts he was involved in.
Poet, dramatist, editor, reviewer, travel writer - are just some of the other descriptions which could be attributed to John Galt.
It is also important to remember that he was also a son, brother, husband, father as well as being a friend to many people of his day. His home life as a child in Irvine and Greenock greatly influenced his writing. His ear for how ordinary people spoke makes those of his books written in Scots a joy to read.
