Franklin Polson co-founder of Polson Iron Works builders of Canada’s finest water vessels 

On my walk through St. James the-Less Cemetery in Toronto, I discovered the grave of Franklin Bates Polson, a pioneering ferry, ship, and barge manufacturer whose work helped shape Canada’s maritime legacy.

Born in Port Hope, Ontario, Franklin likely developed his love of the water from growing up near the shores of Lake Ontario. Following in his father’s footsteps, he became a skilled machinist. Together, they founded the Polson Iron Works Company in Toronto in 1886.

The company quickly became a cornerstone of Canadian shipbuilding, constructing over 100 vessels and steam engines. Among their landmark achievements was the “Manitoba”, Canada’s first steel-hulled ship and the largest vessel ever to sail on freshwater at the time. Polson Iron Works also built Canada’s first modern warship, the “CGS Vigilant.”

The Manitoba and CGS (Canadian Government Ship) Vigilant both manufactured by Polson Iron Works, Toronto.

During a recent winter visit to the Toronto Islands, I wandered to the Royal Canadian Yacht Club, established in 1852, where Franklin Polson also sailed. There, I discovered one of the company’s masterpieces still in operation—the Kwasind. Built in 1912 as a passenger ferry, it is one of only three vessels constructed by Polson Iron Works to survive and continue service today.

Franklin Bates Polson died of typhoid fever in Toronto on October 28, 1927. He was only 49.

1858-1907

Polson Iron Works located at the foot of Sherbourne Street. Today the area is known as Polson Pier.