Father (In-law) of Confederation
Mary Louise Ashbourne was so interested in history and politics that she suggested attending a Liberal Party rally at Maple Leaf Gardens on her first date with her future husband, Howard Ashbourne. She had no idea at the time how deeply involved his family was in Canadian politics or that Howard's father was running as a Liberal candidate.
When Newfoundland joined Confederation in 1949 as Canada’s 10th province, Howard’s father Tom Ashbourne played a role! Mary Louise, who is an historian, is proud to have had what she likes to think of as a “Father of Confederation” as her father-in-law!
Howard and Mary Louise were married for over 69 years. They raised their family of seven children in Weston, where Howard practised law for 60 years. His office was located at 2077 Lawrence Ave. W.
Sadly, Howard passed away in 2025 at the age of 95. We thank Mary Louise for contributing to Mapping our Memories.
Tom Ashbourne, third from left, was part of the delegation that went to Ottawa in 1947 to work out terms of union. (National Archives)
Joey Smallwood signing the agreement between Canada and Newfoundland that brought the colony into Confederation. (Newfoundland Archives)
Storytellers
What
- Canadian Politics
When
Who
- Harold Ashbourne
- Joey Smallwood
- Mary Louise Ashbourne
- Tom Ashbourne