Erastus Long (1868 - 1916) Inducted 1966

Erastus Long, a native of Oro Township, came to Orillia in 1881, as a young lad, to begin his apprenticeship in the shingle mill of his uncle, Robert Brammer.

When his uncle died, he managed the business for the estate, along with J.B. Thompson, under the name of Long & Thompson. In 1900, it took the name The E. Long Mfg. Co. The shingle mill developed to include a saw mill and the manufacturing of transmission machinery and mining machinery. Trade extended across Canada from coast to coast and it was one of the principal employers in Orillia.

Mr. Long took an active interest in public affairs, being a member of Town Council, Chairman of the Water, Light and Power Commission and a trustee of the Methodist Church.

For several years he was president of the YMCA and was largely instrumental in the building of the Y on Peter Street, just north of Mississaga Street.

His death, at the age of 48, cut short an enterprising business career.