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History of the County of Perth, 1825-1902
William Johnston, 1903
p.536-7
Patrick Cline was born in Roscommon, Ireland, in 1817. He came to Canada with his parents in 1832, settling in South Easthope. His death in 1901, at 84 years, broke the link connecting two generations of men - pioneers of an age long past, and those of a progressive period now present. In 1837 his father sold his farm of 300 acres in South Easthope, and removed to Downie, where he had been preceded by Monteiths, Dempseys, Nelsons, Dunsmores, Robbs, and others. Time has made great changes in this old family. Its founders, James Clyne and his wife, have long since passed away. William and John died over a quarter of a century ago, the subject of this sketch being spared alone to witness all those changes resulting from pioneer efforts in the old time.
The history of this family in one respect is somewhat remarkable. By referring to the historical sketch of Downie it will be found that since municipal organization took place in 1842 one or other of its members has been continuously connected with its local government. The late William Clyne was fora long term of years a conspicuous figure among our public men, having been honoured, as few men are, with so large a share of public confidence. The late James Clyne, a most estimable and kind- hearted man, was township treasurer till his death in 1900, having held that responsible position for 32 years.
Like all old settlers Mr Clyne, in his later years, loved to talk of old pioneer scenes - "barn raisings" and "logging bees," when prolonged trials of strength and endurance were maintained with each other. In 1845 he walked to Goderich with his deed in his pocket to record his vote. From that period till the present I believe this family have been supporters of Conservative principles. In religion the family are Catholic, the subject of this sketch assisting to construct the first church in Stratford. He saw St. Joseph's congregation grow and expand from a few people located far apart in an inhospitable wilderness to hundreds of families, who worship at its altar every Sabbath day. At his death he was the oldest member in this congregation. This pioneer was typical of a class, quiet and unassuming, hospitable and kind to those who came within his gates, and in every department of life a worthy and honourable man.
Meg Fuller Perth County Coordinator
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September 22, 2007
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Photos in banner courtesy of Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, FSA-OWI Collection, LC-USF34-051862-D and LC-USF34-031979-D.
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