E. P. Taylor

E. P. Taylor

Edward Plunket Taylor (January 29, 1901 – May 14, 1989) was a prominent Canadian business tycoon, thoroughbred horse racing breeder, and philanthropist. He is best known for his significant contributions to the Canadian business landscape and the horse racing industry.

Early Life and Education

E. P. Taylor was born in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. He attended Ashbury College in Ottawa and later studied at McGill University in Montreal, where he earned a degree in engineering.

Business Career

Taylor began his career in the brewing industry, eventually merging several small breweries to form Canadian Breweries Limited, which became one of the largest brewing companies in Canada. He later diversified his business interests, investing in various sectors including real estate, mining, and telecommunications.

Argus Corporation

In 1945, Taylor co-founded Argus Corporation, a holding company that controlled several major Canadian companies. Under his leadership, Argus Corporation became a dominant force in the Canadian economy, with interests in companies such as Dominion Stores, Massey Ferguson, and Standard Broadcasting.

Horse Racing and Breeding

Taylor was a passionate horse racing enthusiast and established Windfields Farm in Oshawa, Ontario. Windfields Farm became one of the most successful thoroughbred breeding operations in the world. Taylor bred and owned several champion racehorses, including Northern Dancer, who won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes in 1964 and became one of the most influential sires in thoroughbred racing history.

Philanthropy

Throughout his life, Taylor was a generous philanthropist, supporting various causes in education, healthcare, and the arts. He made significant donations to institutions such as McGill University, University of Toronto, and the Royal Ontario Museum.

Legacy

E. P. Taylor's impact on Canadian business and horse racing is enduring. His contributions to the thoroughbred industry have left a lasting legacy, and his business ventures helped shape the Canadian economy in the mid-20th century. Taylor was inducted into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame and the Canadian Business Hall of Fame in recognition of his achievements.

See Also

• Canadian Business Hall of Fame
• Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame
• Northern Dancer
• Windfields Farm
• Argus Corporation