Celebrating 150 Years
About Us
Beginnings
Neighbours helping neighbours, since 1876.
Our history, told by Shelagh and our staff.
In the late 19th century, a time when fire insurance was both expensive and difficult to find in rural Ontario, two farmers from Usborne and Hibbert townships created a mutual insurance company to help their neighbours find stability and peace of mind.
Alex Duncan from Usborne and Robert Gardiner, who lived on the Hibbert boundary, launched Usborne & Hibbert Mutual Fire Insurance Company in 1876 with a simple idea that continues to guide the company 145 years later. Neighbours helping neighbours.
Every policy holder is also a shareholder in the company, and the board of directors is elected from the policy holders. This not only creates an exceptional level of local accountability; it also entitles every policy holder to a share of the company’s profits.
Mission
To provide competitive insurance solutions that protect our policyholders and gives them peace of mind.
Vision
A better future for our Community today.
Values
Communication
is the heart and soul of our community focused business.
Cooperation
working together to provide quality service.
Fairness
is our commitment to you.
Honesty and Trust
the foundation of our relationships.
Integrity
we focus on doing the right thing. Always.
Respect
is earned by trustworthy actions.
Why Insure with a Mutual? We’re your Neighbour
- We understand your needs
- Focused on rural Ontario
Focus on Policyholder Interests
Ontario’s Mutuals are owned & directed by their policyholders, and operate with a “member value” philosophy
Strength in Companies
- Ontario’s Mutuals back each other through our own Guarantee Fund and Reinsurance company
- Collectively our system is one of the most financially secure insurance networks
- Ontario’s Mutuals are 100% Canadian and fully licensed to operate in Ontario.
Loss Prevention Service
- On site inspections
- Promoting safety & awareness in the community
- Fire extinguisher program
A Century and a Half Later
Our story on film
Usborne & Hibbert celebrates our 150th Anniversary in 2026. A look at our company, our history and the mutual difference.
Usborne and Hibbert Mutual Fire Insurance Company
Company film
Customer Service
Ontario Mutuals
Promoting Mutuality
CAMIC
Ontario Mutuals
The Ontario Mutuals film series — provided by the Ontario Mutual Insurance Association.
Spotlight on AALP
Ontario Mutuals
The Mututal Difference
Ontario Mutuals
Investing in Community
Ontario Mutuals
Mutuality
Ontario Mutuals
Personal Touch
Ontario Mutuals