George A. Gillespie (1872 -1956) was born in Otonabee Township near the village of Villiers, and apprenticed at age 15 as a cheesemaker, starting his lifelong journey with the dairy industry of Peterborough County. He worked for Fleetwood Cheese Factory and Central Smith Dairy before purchasing a cheese-making supply store. George expanded his market by traveling and selling throughout the surrounding counties, first by train and then in one of the first Model T Fords ever owned in Peterborough.

By 1910 he purchased property on Aylmer Street and opened Peterborough Pure Milk Products, supplying the area with ice cream and pasteurized milk. He had long advocated for milk to be safely produced and pasteurized. The business later known as Silverwoods Dairy, employed him as General Manager for over 30 years. In 1920 he encouraged the production of condensed milk and traveled the world to promote it.

While sitting as a member of the Government Control Board, George was active in farming issues during the world wars. As a liaison officer, he was instrumental in assisting 650 farm labourers and industrial workers to find employment on farms and in factories, replacing the men who had joined the war effort.

Community involvement was an important part of George Gillespie’s life as a member of City Council, the Provincial Legislature, president of the Chamber of Commerce, the local Cheese Factory Association, ice cream manufacturers, milk distributors, National Dairy Council and Secretary-Manager of the Peterborough Exhibition.

For his many leadership roles both locally and abroad, George Gillespie was awarded the Member of the British Empire (MBE) in 1946.

Nominated by George A. Gillespie, 2017