Ernest Samuel Wigle
Ernest S. Wigle served as the Mayor of the City of Windsor from 1905 to 1909 and again from 1937 to 1938.
Wigle was referred to by many as Windsor’s “Grand Old Man.” During Wigle’s first term as Mayor, he bought “Wigle Park,” a plot of land that had previously accommodated housing. As a result of his work in establishing Wigle Park, he was appointed to the city’s first parks
board (though this board was eventually suspended as a result of the Amalgamation Act). In his second term as Mayor (1937 to 1938), Wigle was tasked with overcoming labour issues in Windsor.
Wigle was born March 5th, 1859 near Kingsville, Ontario. He studied at the University of Toronto (1884) and, in 1887, graduated from Osgoode Hall. Following the completion of his education, Wigle moved to Windsor. In addition to being a lawyer, Wigle was an active member of his church. In 1930, he was appointed chancellor of the Anglican Diocese of Huron. In 1910, Wigle established the first Boy Scout troop in Windsor; he was also a member of the Boy Scouts Dominion Council. Wigle had an extensive military career, serving in World War 1 until 1916, when he returned home to care for his wife, who had fallen ill. For his service in World War 1, Wigle was awarded the Victorian Decoration. Wigle was also active in sports, having played rugby and football in his youth. He passed away October 5th, 1947.
Sources:
Colonel E. S. Wigle is dead. (6 Oct 1947). Windsor Daily Star.
Colonel E. S. Wigle, K.C., V.D. (6 Oct 1947). Windsor Daily Star.
Col. E. S. Wigle succumbs at 88. (6 Oct 1947). Windsor Daily Star.
Life of late colonel E. S. Wigle told in memorial broadcast. (11 Mar 1948) Amherstburg Echo. March 11 1948.
The way things were with Angus Munro. (4 Mar 1972). Windsor Star.