Saturday 11 June 2016

Sam McLaughlin: One Grade Only and That the Best

Sam McLaughlin, born in Enniskillen, Ontario, began apprenticing as an upholsterer in the family carriage business in 1871, earning only $3 a week.  Within five years, he was an official partner in the business.  He turned the carriage company into a car company and soon merged with GM to form General Motors of Canada.  Sam's motto always remained:  "One grade only and that the best." Under Sam's leadership, GMC became Canada's leading exporter of automobiles.

Sam didn't just contribute to the car business; he was a dedicated philanthropist, donating $200 million to organizations, charities and individuals.  McLaughlin received the Companion of the Order of Canada in 1967.  He passed away five years later.  His home in Oshawa, Ontario was designated a historic site in 1989.  Weddings are held on its beautiful grounds.




No comments:

Post a Comment