Edward Gawler Prior

Edward Gawler Prior

Edward Gawler Prior, mining engineer, businessman, premier of BC 1902-03 (b at Dallaghgill, Eng 21 May 1853; d at Victoria 12 Dec 1920). In 1873 Prior immigrated to Vancouver Island, BC, and worked for a mining company in Nanaimo. Appointed inspector of mines in 1877, he returned to business in 1883, becoming manager of E.G. Prior, the leading hardware and machinery business in BC. Elected an MP, he lost his seat in 1900 because of violations of the Electoral Act. Returning to provincial politics he became minister of mines in 1901 and premier in 1902. Dismissed in 1903 following a charge of conflict of interest, he remained an MLA until his defeat in 1904. Appointed lieutenant-governor in 1919, he died in office.