Our History

Isaac Canton Johnston was born in 1896 and moved to Dauphin in 1909, where he would go on to become a distinguished lawyer, dedicated public servant, and a respected leader in the community.

Johnston’s academic journey led him to the University of Manitoba, where he earned an Arts degree in 1916. Soon after, he answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the Canadian Expeditionary Force during the First World War. While serving in France, he suffered life-altering injuries, losing both legs in June 1917.

Following his medical discharge, he pursued a legal career, undertaking his studies in law and being called to the bar in 1924. He quickly established himself as a skilled and principled lawyer, earning the trust of his clients and colleagues. His dedication to the legal profession was recognized in 1951 when he was appointed Queen’s Counsel, a prestigious designation honoring his contributions to the field.

Beyond his legal work, Johnston was deeply committed to the betterment of Dauphin. In 1944, he was elected Mayor.

Isaac Ray Johnston, known to many as Ray, was born in 1928 and became a cornerstone of both the legal and local community in Dauphin. He joined the firm in 1951, embarking on a distinguished legal career that spanned an impressive 51 years. With an unwavering commitment to his clients and a deep understanding of the law, Ray built a legacy of trust and professionalism that endured until his retirement at the age of 75.

Beyond his legal practice, Ray was an active and dedicated member of the Dauphin community. A passionate golfer, he was a proud member of the Dauphin Golf Club for over 60 years, devoting 50 of those years to serving as a board member or volunteer.

Ray was also a strong supporter of the Dauphin Kings, contributing not only as a fan but as a board member for several years. His passion for local sports extended beyond the rink, as he was among the original owners of Parkway Lanes Bowling Alley, a staple of recreation and social gathering in the community.

Tom was born and raised in Winnipeg, graduating from St. Paul's High School with Honours and received his Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Paul's College and his Law Degree from the University of Manitoba. Tom moved to Dauphin in 1972 and joined Johnston & Company. As part of his practice, Tom operated the Roblin and Grandview branch offices every Wednesday.

Community involvement has long been a priority commencing with the chairmanship of the Boy Scouts Prairie Mountain District Council and Presidency of the Dauphin Kings Hockey Club and continuing with chairman of the Main Street Manitoba Program and committee chairman of the Parkland Winter Games. He also co-chaired the steering committee which created the Dauphin and District Recreation Commission, was ex-officio director of the Dauphin Agricultural Society and a past director of the Manitoba Agricultural Credit Corporation. Tom was a founding director and a past president of the Dauphin & District Community Foundation, past president of the Dauphin Regional Airport Authority and a past director of Dauphin's Countryfest for nine years, having been president for three years. Tom is also a founding trustee of the Fort Dauphin Museum Endowment Fund and President of the Fort Dauphin Museum.

Tom was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1994 and retired from active practice in 2024.

Born and raised in Dauphin, Doug graduated from Dauphin Collegiate, winning the Governor General's Medal. After earning his Law Degree from the University of Manitoba, Doug returned to Dauphin to begin working at Johnston & Company in 1975.

Beyond his professional achievements, Doug has been an active member of numerous volunteer organizations, including serving as chairman or vice-chairman for various community groups such as the Prairie Mountain District Council of the Boy Scouts of Canada, Dauphin Golf and Country Club, Dauphin Public Library, Parkland Regional Library Chairman, Dauphin Band Parents Association, Fort Dauphin Museum, Parkland Community Futures, Dauphin Regional Hospital Board, and the Dauphin First United Church. He is also known for his dedicated support of Ducks Unlimited and his engaging role as Master of Ceremonies at various community events.

Doug was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 2020 and retired from active practice in 2024.