Born in Toronto and raised in Woodstock, Ontario, Boyle had a varied career before arriving in Dawson in 1897. Becoming involved in many businesses, "Klondike Joe" soon recognized the potential of large-scale mining. He left the Klondike in 1904 but returned five years later as the head of one of the largest mining operations. "The King of the Klondike" lived here until 1916, when he left for England to help in the allied war effort. For his war-time services, especially his heroic achievements in Russia and Romania, Boyle was decorated by several European nations. He died in London, England.