William Deans

William Deans, born near Paris, was a founder of the Dumfries Mutual Fire Insurance Company in 1856, the first insurance company started in Waterloo County. It was originally called the North Dumfries and South Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Co. He served as secretary-treasurer from 1885-1911.

Deans became well-known throughout the North Dumfries farming community. He made regular trips to farm homes to collect premiums from policyholders and for his protection, he always carried a gun. On long trips he frequently spent the night with farmers.

He lived at 58 Blair Road, Galt, and became one of the city’s best known and highly respected citizens. He was an elder of Central Presbyterian Church for twenty years and a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.