Corby Distillery, Corbyville, in the early days of its 130 year history (Photo: Submitted/Hastings County Historical Society)The Hastings County Historical Society is recognizing the hamlet of Corbyville and the importance of the Corby family’s contribution to life in the county.
The Society will unveil the fourth of seven historical plaques dedicated throughout Hastings County over the summer.
This plaque recognizes the hamlet and the Corby family’s contribution, as a miller, baker, grain merchant, distiller, employer.
Society President Richard Hughes.
The Corby family history in Corbyville:
The name of the hamlet of Corbyville’s recognizes the Corby family’s considerable legacy in Hastings County. Henry Corby – baker, grain merchant, miller began distilling whiskey in 1859. Politically active, he served as mayor of Belleville from 1867-1868 and MPP from 1867 to 1875. Henry Corby Jr. directed the successful expansion of the business after 1881. As MP he represented Hastings West from 1888-1901 and was appointed to the Senate in 1912. He died in 1917. The company assets were sold by 1905; after several ownerships, the distillery closed in 1989.
Corby employed generations of workers in its 130-year history.
Signal Brewer was established in one of the Corby Distillery buildings in the past few years.
The plaque unveiling will take place at that business on River Road, at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday
