By Jamie Hyland
Timmins, Ontario, the birthplace of mining in Northern Ontario, owes much of its early success to Benjamin Hollinger (1885–1919), a Canadian barber turned prospector. Born in Haileybury, Ontario, Hollinger’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings led to one of the most significant gold discoveries in Canadian history. Celebrated as one of the Founding Fathers of Timmins, his pioneering spirit and strategic alliances played a pivotal role in shaping the town’s enduring mining legacy.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Benjamin Hollinger was born on April 10, 1885, in Point Alexander, Ontario. The youngest son of John Hollinger, a schoolteacher, and Sarah Sutherland, Benjamin’s early life was modest yet enriched by a strong familial foundation. Growing up in Haileybury, Ontario, Hollinger initially pursued barbering. However, his adventurous spirit and the allure of prospecting would soon chart a new course for his life.
The Journey to Porcupine
In the early 20th century, the Porcupine Gold Rush drew prospectors to Northern Ontario. Benjamin Hollinger, alongside his friend and professional prospector Alex Gillies, after whom Gillies Lake is named, ventured to this promising region. The pair were inspired by the recent Wilson expedition, which had uncovered the future site of the Dome Mine.
On October 9, 1909, Hollinger made his landmark discovery of a gold-bearing quartz dike. This pivotal find would later be recognized as the foundation of Hollinger Mines. Together, Hollinger and Gillies staked three claims each, with an additional claim for their former partner, Bernard “Barney” P. McEnaney, who was unable to join them due to severe sciatica.
From Discovery to Hollinger Mines
Despite their monumental find, Hollinger and his partners lacked the financial resources to develop the mine. In 1910, Hollinger sold his claim for $165,000 to the Timmins brothers (Noah and Henry) and the McMartin brothers (Duncan and John), forming a partnership that would forever change Canadian mining.
With the inclusion of Mattawa attorney David Alexander Dunlap, the partnership incorporated Hollinger Mines, named in Benjamin’s honor. The mine became one of Canada’s most prolific gold producers, yielding over 19 million ounces of gold valued at more than $50.81 billion USD in today’s dollars.
A Lasting Legacy in Mining and Community
While Hollinger Mines brought immense wealth to the region, Benjamin Hollinger’s contributions extended beyond gold extraction. His discovery spurred the development of Timmins, Ontario, transforming it from a rugged wilderness into a thriving community. The Hollinger name became synonymous with prosperity and progress, leaving an indelible mark on Canadian mining history.
Personal Life and Final Years
On February 4, 1913, Benjamin Hollinger married Ellen Jane Hill in Pembroke, Ontario. The couple built a family, welcoming a daughter and two sons. Despite his success and reputation as a pioneer prospector, Hollinger remained humble and dedicated to his work.
Sadly, Hollinger passed away on November 26, 1919, at the age of 34, due to heart failure. His untimely death was deeply mourned by his peers and community. The Porcupine Advance, a local publication, described him as “pleasant, cheerful, loyal and a gentleman always.”
The Evolution of Hollinger Mines
The success of Hollinger Mines extended well beyond Hollinger’s lifetime. Under the management of the Timmins and McMartin brothers, the mine operated until 1968, significantly contributing to Canada’s gold production. Today, the legacy of Hollinger Mines is preserved in Timmins, where landmarks and historical sites honor the trailblazing efforts of Benjamin Hollinger and his contemporaries.
Why Benjamin Hollinger Matters Today
Benjamin Hollinger’s story is a testament to determination, vision, and collaboration. His journey from barber to prospector embodies the entrepreneurial spirit that defined Canada’s early mining industry.
The town of Timmins, often referred to as the “City with a Heart of Gold,” owes its foundation to the discoveries and contributions of individuals like Hollinger. His legacy continues to inspire prospectors, historians, and residents, reminding us of the potential for greatness through courage and perseverance.
