An ardent Canadian and founder of the Canadian Club movement, McCullough was born in Bowmanville and moved to Hamilton in 1888. He and four companions in December, 1892, determined to found an organization which would encourage the study of Canada's history, literature, resources and native talents. The first Canadian Club was inaugurated in Hamilton in February, 1893, and W.S. Evans, one of the originators, served as president 1893-94, while McCullough held that position 1895-96. The Canadian Club movement spread throughout the Dominion and a central association was formed in 1909.