Henry Corby (1806 – 1881) was a British‑born Canadian businessman best known for founding the Corby Distillery in Kingston, Ontario, which later evolved into the Corby‑Sutherland distilling company.
Early life
- Born in 1806 in Norfolk, England.
- Trained as a cooper (barrel maker) before emigrating to Upper Canada in the 1820s.
Career in Canada
- Settled in Kingston, where he initially worked as a cooper for the local militia and for shipping firms.
- In 1859, Corby purchased a former brewery on Princess Street and converted it into a distillery, producing whisky and other spirits.
- The Corby Distillery grew rapidly, benefiting from the demand for alcoholic beverages among local populations and the railway‑linked trade routes.
Political involvement
- Served as a member of the Kingston City Council and was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, representing the constituency of Kingston as a Liberal member from 1867 to 1871.
Legacy
- After his death in 1881, the distillery continued under the management of his son, Harry Corby, eventually merging with other firms to become Corby‑Sutherland.
- The Corby name remains associated with the Canadian whisky industry, and several streets and landmarks in Kingston bear his name, reflecting his impact on the city's economic development.
Personal life
- Married Ann Farley; the couple had several children, including Harry Corby, who succeeded him in the family business.
References
- Historical records of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.
- Kingston municipal archives.
- Company histories of Corby‑Sutherland Ltd.
