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Was born on 11th January 1815 at Glasgow, Scotland. He emigrated to Canada as a young boy. He was a Lawyer in Kingston, Ontario and later became a Politician. During the 1860’s he championed the confederation of the Canadian provinces.  
 
He was instrumental in securing passage of the British North America Act, and is considered the primary organizer of the Dominion of Canada. He served as first Prime Minister, a position he held from 1867 to 1873 and 1878 to 1891.  
 
The nations Chief Executive made a visit to Brandon in late August 1886. For twelve hours the septuagenarian Sir John A. and Lady Macdonald were honoured by the city of Brandon when they moved among and were welcomed on behalf of the community by Mayor Smart and Liberal/Conservative Association members.  
 
At night “thousands thronged the streets that were brightened by store windows that had been especially decorated and illuminated for the occasion”.  
 
He died on June 6th 1891 in Ottawa and was laid to rest five days later. In Brandon political opposites rested and business establishments observed the occasion, many with black drapes and darkened windows.  
 
Canadian Pacific Railway locomotives entering and leaving the city wore sombre attire.  
 
Note: septuagenarian definition (sep·tua·genar·ian)  
Adjective 70 years old, or between the ages of 70 and 80  
 
 
Source: http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/2/4/h4-3031-e.html  
 
Brandon a City by G. F. Barker.