Major Hugh M. Dyer, commanding Squadron D, of the Twelfth Manitoba Dragoons, is one of the most prominent men in political and agricultural circles of the Minnedosa district. He has been closely associated with the development of this part of the province since he came here from England, attracted by the opportunities which the country offered. The hope which brought him to Canada has not been disappointed, for his life, viewed from every standpoint, has been honorable and successful. the family is of English origin but Major Dyer was born in Kingston, Dublin County, Ireland, January 28, 1861, a son of Captain Hugh M. and Marion (Lozzin) [Correction: Marianne Loggin] Dyer. His father was for many years prominent in the Royal Navy and saw active service in the Baltic Sea, in the Chinese War and on the west coast of Africa, doing work in preventing the slave trade. When he returned from service he was appointed governor of the Kilmainham jail. He died in 1876 and is buried in the Church of England cemetery in Dublin.
Major Hugh M. Dyer received his education in the Royal Naval School at Newcros, England, and laid aside his books at the age of sixteen and spent some years in athletics and sports. Finally, however, he at once recognized the advantages which the country offered and saw that its agricultural development, which was just begun, would advance rapidly, thus offering rich rewards to pioneers in its promotion. Accordinging, he determined to settle in Manitoba and homesteaded a tract of land near Glendale. He acquired another tract as a pre-emption clain and added to his holdings by purchase until he owned three hundred and twenty acres, all scrub and bush land. This he bought to a high state of development by hard work and unremitting industry and made substantial improvements upton it, builinding his home, and large barns and stables. In 1893, however, he disposed of this property and bought his present farm of eight hundred acres, only eight of which had cultivated. With characteristic energy Major Dyer set himself to develop the land and improve the farm and he has at the present time five hundred acres planted in grain. He has built barns, graneries and all necessary outbuildings and installed every appliance found upon a model farm of the twentieth century. His beautiful and attractive home he designed himself and personally supervised its erection. It shows the result of his care and interest in its pleasing appearance and in the comfort and convenience of its appointments. Major Dyer does mixed farming and harvests are an important source of revenue for him, and he breeds cattle and has fine herds of sheep and horses, which command a large price in the market.
On March 3, 1882, Major Dyer returned to Plymouth, England and there married Miss Mary Pearson [Correction: Helen May PEARSON], a daughter of John and Mary Pearson [Correction: Sarah], both deceased. Mrs. Dyer’s father is buried in Minnedosa cemetery his wife rests in Manchester, England. Mrs. Dyer is a cousin of Mr. Asquith, premier of England. Major and Mrs. Dyer have four children: Reginald, who is farming in township 15, of Minnedosa district; John, who is assisting his father; Harry, a student in the Agricultural College; and William, five years of age. The family are devout adherents of the Church of England.
In official circles Major Dyer is well known and prominent. He gives his allegiance to the conservative part and has held various important local offices, including those of councillor and trustee of the municipality. He holds his title in the Manitoba Dragoons, being commander of Squadron D. The principal interest of his life, however, is given to the improvement and development of his farm. He makes a study of agriculture not as an individual occupation but as a systematic science in its relation to the entire community. No new development in farming machinery or any improved methods escape his attention and he is quick to adopt innovations which he considers sound and useful. His influence is felt in agricultural circles, where his ability and attainments are known and recognized, for the board of directors of the Agricultural College, representing the entire north-western district of the province, made him chairman of the organization in 1907 and has retained him in office since that time.
E-mail Val with your comments!
Return to Family Profiles Page
Return to Val's Family Photos Page
This FREE homepage hosted by 