Peter Mitchell (January 4, 1824 – October 25, 1899) was a Canadian lawyer, shipbuilder, and politician from New Brunswick, and a Father of Confederation. He was the sixth and last Premier of the Colony of New Brunswick before Canadian Confederation in 1867. After confederation, Mitchell represented New Brunswick in the Senate of Canada as a Liberal until his resignation in 1872 to serve as a member of the Parliament of Canada representing Northumberland as an Independent; he described himself as an "Independent Liberal" during this time.
Early life and education
Peter Mitchell was born on January 4, 1824, in Newcastle (present-day Miramichi), New Brunswick, to Scottish-born immigrant parents. His father was also named Peter Mitchell, and his mother's name was Barbara Grant. He was educated at a local grammar school and afterwards spent four years working for George Kerr's law office. He became an attorney on October 14, 1847.
Career
Mitchell joined a legal partnership with John Mercer Johnson in October 1847, with both practicing law in their respective locations.