John Inglis & Company, Toronto

History of John Inglis & Company, Toronto

John Inglis & Company was a prominent manufacturing enterprise based in Toronto, Ontario, known for its significant contributions to industrial manufacturing, shipbuilding, and wartime production in Canada. Founded in the late 19th century, the company evolved from a small machine shop into a major industrial powerhouse, playing a vital role in Canada’s economic and military history.

Founding and Early Years

The company was established in 1859 by Scottish immigrant John Inglis and his partner William E. Saunders as a small machine shop specializing in machinery repair and manufacturing. Originally located in Toronto, Inglis quickly gained a reputation for quality craftsmanship and innovation in engineering.

By the late 19th century, the company had shifted its focus to producing large-scale industrial equipment, including steam engines, waterworks machinery, and marine engines. These products were essential for the burgeoning shipping and manufacturing industries in Ontario and across Canada.

Expansion into Shipbuilding

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, John Inglis & Company entered the shipbuilding industry, producing marine engines and components for vessels operating on the Great Lakes. The company’s expertise in steam engineering made it a trusted supplier for shipbuilders across Canada.

The company played a supporting role in the growth of Canada’s maritime economy, contributing to the construction and maintenance of vessels used for cargo, passenger transport, and industrial purposes.

Wartime Contributions

One of the most significant chapters in John Inglis & Company’s history was its role during World War II. In the 1930s, the company shifted its focus to military production, becoming a key supplier for the Allied war effort.

Notable Contributions During WWII:

1. Bren Gun Manufacturing: The company was awarded a contract to produce the Bren light machine gun, an essential infantry weapon used by Canadian and Allied forces. At its peak, the factory produced over 186,000 Bren guns, making it one of the largest producers of small arms in the British Commonwealth.

2. Other Military Equipment: In addition to firearms, Inglis produced ammunition, gun mounts, and other components critical to the war effort.

To accommodate wartime production, the company expanded its facilities significantly, employing thousands of workers, including many women who joined the workforce for the first time.

Post-War Transition

After the war, John Inglis & Company shifted its focus back to civilian manufacturing. The company diversified its product line, becoming well-known for producing domestic appliances, particularly washing machines and other household goods. By the mid-20th century, Inglis had become a household name in Canada.

Acquisition and Legacy

In the 1980s, John Inglis & Company was acquired by Whirlpool Corporation, a U.S.-based appliance manufacturer. Under Whirlpool’s ownership, the Inglis name continued to be used for a line of appliances until it was gradually phased out.

Today, the legacy of John Inglis & Company endures in its contributions to Canada’s industrial and military history. Its role in wartime production, in particular, is remembered as a defining moment in the company’s story, highlighting its capacity for innovation and adaptability in times of national need.

Significance

John Inglis & Company exemplifies the evolution of Canadian industry, from its early days as a machine shop to its transformation into a major player in manufacturing and wartime production. The company’s impact on the economy, workforce, and technological development in Canada remains an important part of Toronto’s and the nation’s industrial heritage.

Resources & Links

• Canadian Museum of History: Records on wartime production in Canada, including Inglis’s role.
• Archives of Ontario: Collections related to John Inglis & Company and its contributions to Ontario’s economy.
• Library and Archives Canada: Historical documents and photographs of Inglis products and facilities.
• Toronto Public Library: Local archives with records on the company’s operations in Toronto.
• Canadian War Museum: Exhibits and resources on Canadian industry during World War II.

Conclusion

John Inglis & Company left a lasting legacy as a leader in industrial and wartime manufacturing in Canada. Its story reflects the adaptability and resilience of Canadian industry, from the industrial revolution through the challenges of two world wars and into the modern era.