University of Virginia Library


362

Page 362

CANADA.

The art was introduced into Canada soon after its conquest
by the British. There was, however, but one press
established there before 1775.

Quebec.

Soon after the organization of the government of the
province by the British, a printing house was established
in Quebec by William Brown and Thomas Gilmore, under
the firm of Brown & Gilmore. They were the first who
introduced the art into Canada. They printed in both
English and French; and their work was executed in a
very handsome manner. Brown, I am informed, was a
Scotchman, and had been employed some years in the
printing house of William Hunter, in Williamsburg, Va.
Gilmore was a native of Pennsylvania, and served an apprenticeship
with William Dunlap, in Philadelphia.[5] Their
partnership continued till 1774. From that time, Brown,
the senior partner, carried on the business for himself.

 
[5]

The intelligence sent to me from Canada respecting the country where
these printers were born, as published in the first edition, I find was
erroneous. I have since received more correct information respecting
them.