Historical Plaque - Robert Alexander Laidlaw 1886-1976

What can I say about this historical plaque? I believe this plaque speaks for itself! Informative, but to the point, I believe historical plaques could take a lesson from this one. Well kept and clean, easy to read, well serviced grounds around it. I would return, if I were ever needing to brush up on my Laidlaw family history.

Whilst wondering along the Lake Simcoe and Cook's Bay vicinities, this plaque was beheld with great interest. It was erected by the Ontario Historical Foundation, Ministry of Culture and Communications, in memory of Robert Alexander Laidlaw. Humbly, he has a significant influence with his impressive achievements. Throughout his lifetime he was an extremely successful businessman and philanthropist The Laidlaw Foundation carries on his merits though he has, sadly, shuffled off the mortal coil. His internment is at Christ Church Cemetery.

Located in Roches Point beside the Church, this plaque commemorates the philanthropist Laidlaw. It says;

A prominent Ontario businessman and philanthropist, Laidlaw, who is buried here, was born in Barrie and raised and educated in Toronto. He joined his father's firm, the R. Laidlaw Lumber Company Limited following his graduation in 1908, and during a long and successful business career, served it and other important Canadian corporations. Laidlaw is best remembered, however, for his philanthropic work. He made major contributions to leading health care, educational and cultural institutions, including the Hospital for Sick Children, Upper Canada College, the University of Toronto, the National Ballet School and the National Ballet of Canada, and was revered for his generosity. In 1949, Laidlaw, a quiet, modest man despite his many accomplishments, helped establish the Laidlaw Foundation, thus ensuring the continuation of his philanthropic efforts.