The Honourable John Rolph, M.D. 1793-1870
This property once belonged to John Rolph, a prominent physician, lawyer and legislator. Born in England, he emigrated to Upper Canada in 1812. In 1824, with Dr. Charles Duncombe, he established at St. Thomas, the province's first medical school, the "Talbot Dispensatory". A reformer, Rolph represented Middlesex in the assembly, 1824-29 and Norfolk 1836-37. Although not an active participant in the Rebellion of 1837, he was so seriously implicated that he was compelled to flee to the United States. He returned in 1843, established a noted medical school in Toronto, and became the founder of the radical Clear Grit party 1849-50 and president of the legislative council, 1855-57.
Plaque via Alan L. Brown's site Ontario Plaques. Full page here.