McMaster's namesake - businessman, politician and banker Senator William McMaster - isn't exactly unknown, but in the lead up to the 125th anniversary of the institution's founding, the McMaster Alumni Association wants to ensure that the community knows all about the remarkable man.

Born in County Tyrone, Ireland, McMaster came to Canada with no money, no friends and little education. Working as a clerk in a dry goods firm, McMaster quickly proved himself to employer Robert Cathcart, who, within a year or two of McMaster's arrival, made him his business partner. When Cathcart retired, McMaster took over the business.

In 1862 McMaster entered politics, getting himself elected as the Liberal representative for Midland. He was later appointed to the first domination Senate and remained a member for the rest of his life.

"He was truly a self-made man and accomplished much of what he did through hard work and merit, which is fitting considering the values that the University tries to instill in its students," said Karen McQuigge, director of Alumni Advancement. "With the 125th anniversary of the University's founding only a year away, we really want to educate the community about what sort of person McMaster was."

At the urging of his wife, Susan Moulton McMaster, the Senator endorsed a campaign for an independent Baptist institution offering both theology and liberal arts. A bill allowing for the union of Woodstock College and Toronto Baptist College was introduced in March of 1887 and on April 7 McMaster made out a will leaving an endowment of $900,000 for the university. McMaster University was born when the bill was assented to on April 23.

"I think he'd be proud of the world-class institution the University has become," said McQuigge, who is spearheading plans for the milestone anniversary. "That's why it's important not only to recognize McMaster's founding, but also the man who made it all possible."

Happy Founder's Day to all of our Mac grads!