William Dunlop

William Dunlop (19 November 1792 – 29 June 1848) also known as Tiger Dunlop, was an army officer, surgeon, Canada Company official, author, justice of the peace, militia officer, politician, and office holder. He is notable for his contributions to the War of 1812 in Canada and his work in the Canada Company, helping to develop and populate a large part of Southern Ontario (the Huron Tract). He was later elected as a Member of Parliament for the Huron riding in the 1st Parliament of the Province of Canada, Canada West.

Early life and education

Tiger Dunlop was born 19 November 1792 in Greenock, Scotland, the third son of a local banker Alexander Dunlop and Janet Graham. He pursued his medical studies at the University of Glasgow and in London.

British Army

In January 1813 Dunlop joined the army as a hospital mate. A month later he was posted as an assistant surgeon in the 89th Regiment of Foot. He was first posted to the Isle of Wight, later leaving for Quebec in August 1813. He remained with the Army until 1828, although after the end of the Napoleonic Wars much of that time he was on half-pay and not serving.

From 1815 to 1820 Dunlop was in India, as a journalist and possibly other commercial activities. On returning to Britain, he taught medical jurisprudence at the University of Edinburgh, and also was in London.

War of 1812

The 89th Regiment left Britain on 4 February 1813, with Dunlop appointed assistant surgeon. The regiment was posted to Upper Canada during the War of 1812 in time to participate in the Battle of Crysler's Farm and the Battle of Lundy's Lane.