http://www.ottawahort.org
J. B. Spencer
OHA Annual Report, 1950 By: MRS. D. A. GILLIES Back to the web versionMR. JAMES BURNS SPENCER passed away at his home in Ottawa, in his 85th year, on January 11th, 1950. Son of the late Herbert H. Spencer and his wife, the late Agnes Burns, he was born at Brooklin, Ontario, in 1866. He graduated from the Ontario Agricultural College in 1894. After spending some years in editing varjous agricultural journals, including the Family Herald and Weekly Star, he entered the Dominion Department of Agriculture. Later in 1914 he was made director of the Publications Branch, and retained this position until his retirement from the service in 1935.
Mr. Spencer was one of the pioneer members of the Society of Technical Agriculturists, later known as the Agricultural Institute. He was a charter member of the editors' group of Professional Institute of Civil Service. He was active also in the Press Club of Ottawa.
Besides being the author of many departmental bulletins, he wrote numerous articles on horticulture which have been widely published. He served with distinction as Director and later President of the Ontario Horticultural Association.
He was the father of the idea of choosing. the white trillium as the floral emblem of Ontario, and was made very happy to see this adopted by Act of Parliament.
His outstanding ability and wide experience received recognition in his appointment to the position of honour as member of the Federal District Commission, which high office he held until his death.
This Federal District Commission has full charge of the laying-out, co-ordinating, landscaping and maintaining all the beautiful public grounds, parks and driveways, not only in and around the capital city of Ottawa, but comprises the city of Hull, and thousands of acres in the Gatineau district. This plan, which Mr. J. B. Spencer helped to formulate, is a long-term project extending many years into the future, and required judgment and vision of a high order.
This is but a brief factual record of his accomplishments and honours but it fails to convey the real achievement of his life. His was a gentle, modest, unassuming, lovable character; kindly approachable, he was willing at all times to give of himself, his experience, and high talents for the furtherance of any good cause for the cultural improvement of Canada.
Among his interests horticulture held a high place, and we of the horticultural fraternity of the Ottawa Valley had an unique opportunity to know and appreciate his many sterling qualities of mind and understanding heart. Never were the problems of the smallest Society too unimportant for him to give to it his sympathy and whole-hearted attention.
His was a beautiful character, emblematic of the best of the gardening fellowship. He will be always missed by the many who enjoyed his warm friendship and wise counsel. This memory of his character and fine record is a heritage and an inspiration to all throughout the years to come. He. was a builder of tradition.
Please contact the OHS or the author if you wish to republish these articles.