Chapter 1 – Lili
King George III
George III was King of England (by 1800, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland) from 1761 to 1820. George III, of German descent from the House of Hanover, was born in London, England. He was the first of the House of Hanover to be born in England and received his education there. He became a devout member of the Church of England and was fluent in English, German, and French.
During his reign, George III dealt with a number of significant events involving Great Britain, such as the Seven Years’ War, the French Revolution, the Napoleonic Wars, the American Revolution, and the War of 1812.
George III often allowed parliament to dominate political matters; however, he would not compromise his staunch views regarding Catholic Emancipation, refusing to endorse reforms to do with such.
George and his wife, Charlotte, raised a large family. Throughout his lifetime, he suffered from increasingly intense episodes of cognitive and physical distress including incoherent speech, pain, and paralysis. Many reasons were speculated over the years as to reasons for the King’s intermittent episodes, one of which being that the strains of politics and domestic life may have influenced George III’s mental state. Eventually, these bouts (often referred to at the time as madness or fits of insanity) led to blindness and deafness. More recently, it is believed that a blood disease called porphyria was possibly the cause of his illness.
As a result of George III’s worsening medical condition, by 1811, parliament passed an act that enabled the King’s eldest son, George IV, to act in his stead as Prince Regent. King George III died in January of 1820, and his son, George IV, became Great Britain’s next monarch.
George IV
George was King George III’s eldest son who was officially appointed Prince Regent of Great Britain in 1811. He became George IV, King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, following his father’s death in 1820.
George IV lived his life as monarch of Great Britain quite differently than his father. Even as Regent, although he ushered in the fashionable regency era, he abandoned his father’s more strict and modest ways in favour of extravagance, parties, alcohol, women, gambling, clothing, and entertainment. George IV enjoyed the comforts of various royal residences, some which he had renovated including at Buckingham House/Palace, Windsor Castle, and the extraordinarily designed and opulent seaside getaway, the Brighton Pavilion.
By the time of his death, George IV had become a popular source of ridicule by the prevailing press at the time for his many overindulgences and lack of interest in the responsibilities of his reign. His younger brother, William, ascended the throne following his death in 1830.
Edward Augustus
Edward was the fourth son of King George III and Queen Charlotte. He trained to become a soldier and a commander of the King’s 7th Regiment of Foot (Royal Fusiliers).
Prince Edward and the 7th Regiment came to Lower Canada in 1792, being posted at Quebec for a time before relocation to Halifax in the colony of Nova Scotia in 1794. As commander of the forces there, Edward took great interest in military matters and was known to be a strict commander. His influence while residing in Halifax was quite significant and some of his endeavours remain. For example, he organized the repair and reinforcement of military fortifications including those at Citadel Hill, where he also promoted the construction of the city’s well-known Garrison Clock Tower. During his tenure, reinforcements were also done at the York Redoubt, Fort Clarence, and at other defensive works throughout the vital naval location, including at George’s Island where he promoted the construction of a fort that he named Fort Charlotte.
The construction of stone Martello-type towers was supported by Edward: Duke of Clarence’s Tower, Duke of York’s Tower, and the Prince of Wales Tower which remains as a National Historic Site of Canada.
Edward supported the establishment of an ambitious telegraph or semaphore system to be created from Halifax to Quebec, although the complete system was never realized and sections of the system that were constructed fell into disrepair following the War of 1812. Masts, yardarms, flags, pennants, and balls were used to transmit messages from various stations located many miles apart on wilderness hilltops. The project was costly and unreliable due to weather conditions; however, some success was achieved between outposts within the Halifax defense system.
St. George’s Round Church was also supported by Edward and survives, although having had various renovations, as an active house of worship in the city of Halifax. In 1799, the Island of St John, a British colony, was renamed Prince Edward Island in honour of Prince Edward. That same year, Edward became Duke of Kent and Strathearn, and having been promoted to lieutenant-general was appointed commander of the forces in British North America.
By 1800, Edward returned to England to recuperate from illness. He was estranged from his father throughout his lifetime, consequently causing him financial difficulties for many years. Following a long-time relationship with Mme Julie de Saint-Laurent, the pair separated and Edward married Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld. Edward and Victoria became parents of a daughter in the spring of 1819, Alexandrina Victoria. Edward adored his daughter, but, sadly, he passed away from pneumonia in 1820.
His daughter became the long-reigning monarch, Queen Victoria.
John Crysler/Chrysler
Crysler was a captain in the 1st Dundas Militia of eastern Upper Canada, and it was on his farm by the St. Lawrence River that the tough-fought battle between the United States and British forces took place on November 11, 1813.
Chapter 2 – The Vast Virgin Wilderness
Lieutenant-General Sir Gordon Drummond
Drummond was born at Quebec (City, Canada) in 1772. He became a soldier and army officer, an administrator and, in late 1813, commander of the British forces in Upper Canada. He played a significant role during the Niagara campaign of 1813 and 1814.
Following the end of the war by 1815, Drummond was appointed chief administrator and commander of the British forces in the Canadas replacing Governor General Sir George Prevost. In the spring of 1816, Drummond returned to England joining his wife, Margaret Russell, and their family. He was awarded knighthood as a Knights Commander of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, and in 1817, he was received into the Knights Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath.
In later years, Drummond attained the rank of senior general of the King’s army. He died in London, England in the fall of 1854.
Sir Gordon Drummond is designated as a National Historic Person of Canada.
Major-General Phineas Riall
Riall entered the North American theatre of war in 1813 as a commander and participant during the Niagara campaign of 1813 and 1814. He was captured during the battle of Lundy’s Lane by United States forces.
Lieutenant-Colonel John Harvey
Harvey was a soldier of modest means who had worked his way through the ranks. He had been active in many major battles of the war, as well as, in his administrative role as a deputy adjutant general that included prisoner exchange, intelligence, and to liaise with militia and First Nations allies.
Following the war of 1812, he remained linked to Canada for some time, in particular, as he became lieutenant-governor of Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Newfoundland (Civil Governor) and Nova Scotia. He died in Halifax, Nova Scotia, in 1852.
Chapter 3 – Battle at the Longwoods
Lieutenant-Colonel William Caldwell
William Caldwell Sr. was leader of the Western Rangers/Caldwell’s Rangers of the Western District of Upper Canada. A former captain with the Butler’s Rangers (John Butler’s Rangers, American Revolution), Caldwell Sr. was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel of the Western Rangers during the war of 1812.
The Irish-born Caldwell became immersed in North American warfare soon after his arrival in 1773. He gained a reputation as a tough fighter and able leader. Following the American Revolution, also known as the War of Independence in the United States, Caldwell accumulated large amounts of land throughout the area around Sandwich, Upper Canada, in the Western District of that time. He became a trader, conducting business with various groups and organizing provisions for military, First Nations, and fur-traders. He helped to create the ‘New Settlement’ along the north shore of Lake Erie in what became Colchester and Gosfield townships. He also helped to settle the town of Amherstburg that was developing around the British fort, Fort Amherstburg.
Like his counterparts, Simon Girty, Alexander McKee, Thomas McKee, and Matthew Elliott, Caldwell had been involved in a number of vicious battles during the American Revolution and was considered a wanted man by many Americans. During the war of 1812, Caldwell again joined the fight against the Americans. The Western Rangers, along with Caldwell and his sons, William Jr., Thomas, Francis, and Billy, fought against the United States forces at many battles throughout Upper Canada for the duration of the war, such as the battles of Moraviantown, Longwoods, Lundy’s Lane, and Fort Erie.
In 1814, Caldwell became Superintendent of Indian Affairs for the Western District of Upper Canada, replacing Matthew Elliott. The seasoned, aging fighter often found himself at odds with the British authorities over various issues and by the fall of 1815, his son, Billy, replaced him as superintendent for a time.
Caldwell made his home on his property by Amherstburg, Upper Canada. He served as a magistrate and took interest in the affairs of local communities. Before his death in 1822, he donated land toward the purpose of erecting a church by Amherstburg. Built in 1818, Christ (Anglican) Church remains an active church. The pew he requested be reserved in his name still exists.
Following the American occupation of the razed Fort Amherstburg after their victory in the Battle of Lake Erie on September 10, 1813, the fort was rebuilt by the Americans and became commonly known as Fort Malden. After the war, Fort Malden was returned to British rule and building continued sporadically throughout the years that followed; as well, it served as an asylum for a time. Eventually, the fort’s importance as a historic site was recognized, and it is now Fort Malden National Historic Site, Amherstburg, Ontario, Canada.
Billy Caldwell
Billy was the son of William Caldwell and a First Nations woman. He and his father were involved with the Indian Department during the war, as well as participating in major battles. He was often known as Captain Billy and also as Sagaunash/Sauganash (meaning English-speaking). After the war, Billy spent much of his life in the United States eventually becoming involved in matters relating to the Potawatomis, Ojibwas, Odawas, and others, particularly in regard to the Treaty of Chicago, 1833.
Captain John McGregor
Lieutenant McGregor became a captain in the Loyal Kent Volunteers in 1814. During the Battle of Longwoods in the Western District of Upper Canada, the militia unit was part of the British forces that participated in the assault on the American-held position on the hill beside the Longwoods Road. He owned property in and around Amherstburg and Sandwich and operated a gristmill that was destroyed during the war.
Captain Stewart
Stewart was a captain in the King’s 1st Regiment Royal Scots. He was headquartered at the village of Delaware, Upper Canada, during the days leading up to the Battle of the Longwoods in the spring of 1814.
Captain James Basden
Basden was a captain in the 89th Regiment and was second in command to Captain Stewart during the Battle of Longwoods along the Twenty-Mile Creek on March 4, 1814.
Captain David Johnstone
Johnstone was a member of the 1st Regiment Royal Scots who led a charge against the United States forces positioned on the crest of a hill behind an abatis during the Battle of Longwoods. The assault was unsuccessful, and many British soldiers perished along the icy slope of the hill during the charge including Captain Johnstone.
Captain Andrew Holmes
Holmes was commander of the United States forces which defeated the British forces during the Battle of Longwoods in March, 1814. In August 1814, Captain Holmes was killed leading his troops against the British forces on Mackinac Island.
A fortified British blockhouse was constructed on the highest bluff of Mackinac Island to supplement the existing Fort Mackinac not far beneath it. When the United States reoccupied Fort George following the Treaty of Ghent, Fort George was renamed Fort Holmes in memory of the young soldier that was killed during the Battle of Mackinac Island. Both forts can be visited now on the beautiful Mackinac Island in Lake Huron and Michigan’s Straits of Mackinac. The historic sites on the island are part of the Mackinac State Historic Parks.
George Ward
George Ward was a seasoned British soldier and veteran of many battles from Ireland to North America. During the war of 1812, he was part of the 1st Kent Militia. The village of Wardsville was named after him and his wife, Margaret. Wardsville is situated near the site of the Battle of Longwoods in today’s southwestern Ontario.
William Ward
George Ward’s eldest son was a member of the 1st Regiment, Kent Militia.
The site of the Battle of Longwoods is a National Historic Site known as Battle Hill, Longwoods Road, Wardsville, Ontario. There is a cairn and a memorial stone dedicated to the battle providing some details of the event. Each spring, history comes alive with a re-enactment of the battle by members of various re-enactment societies such as the Upper Thames Military Re-enactment Society.
Chapter 4 – Of Mercy and Misery
Richard Beasley
Beasley was a businessman, trader, merchant, and landowner. One of his properties was situated on a bluff overlooking Burlington Bay and was used by the British forces during the war as an important stronghold. In later years, it became the property of Sir Allan Napier McNab, and the home he built there (upon foundation remnants of Richard Beasley’s Georgian cottage) is well-known today as Dundurn Castle in Hamilton, Ontario.
Chapter 5 – Of Prayers and Promises
Colonel Thomas Talbot
Thomas Talbot played an important, yet often contentious, role in the settlement of Port Talbot and surrounding areas of southwestern Upper Canada. He helped in the organization of lot surveying as well as the development of roads, such as the Talbot Trail/Road.
Talbot was an aristocrat from Ireland that was granted a vast tract of land near and along the northern shore of Lake Erie. He came to know this area during his tenure as private secretary to Upper Canada’s first lieutenant-governor, John Graves Simcoe, while being stationed in Montreal on his first time to British North America as part of the 24th Regiment of Foot. He returned to England, but, by 1800 he was interested in settling in Upper Canada. On his return to British North American, Talbot chose to commence the construction of a new settlement in 1803 at the mouth of Talbot Creek on Lake Erie. He named the village Port Talbot and constructed mills in preparation for new settlers. Through his settlement management, he increased his landholdings and developed an area that came to be referred to as the Talbot Settlement.
Talbot had acquired some military experience during the war with Napoleon. In 1812, General Isaac Brock appointed Talbot commander of militia forces, Middlesex, Norfolk and Oxford, in the London District of Upper Canada and a colonel in the 1st Middlesex Militia.
Talbot built a home at Port Talbot that he named after his family home in Ireland, Malahide. Although Port Talbot was burned and plundered during the war and Talbot sought out by marauders for capture, his original log home endured for some time after. Eventually, he constructed a larger, rather impressive home at the same picturesque location and lived there for most of his life. He died in London, Ontario, in 1853.
There is a cairn at the former site of Port Talbot that indicates its designation as a National Historic Site of Canada.
The powerful landowner, settlement founder, politician and soldier left an impact on southwestern Ontario. Remnants of the Talbot Trail can still be distinguished, particularly, on a road that many from that area now refer to as simply, the #3. One can travel, at least parts of it still, from Fort Erie to Windsor along the vision of the late Colonel Thomas Talbot.
François Baby
Baby was captain and assistant quartermaster general, Western District, Kent Militia. Captain Baby was also a justice of the peace and politician. His home and property in Sandwich, (Windsor), were commandeered by the United States forces during the war. Today, his former home is known as the Hiram Walker Historical Museum in Windsor, Ontario.
François’ brothers, James and Jean-Baptiste, were also involved in the war. James’ house still stands today and is known as the Duff-Baby Interpretation Centre in Windsor, Ontario.
Bela Brewster Brigham
Brigham was Captain, 1st Regiment, Oxford Militia. He organized a Rifle Company within the regiment under Colonel Henry Bostwick.
Captain Daniel Springer
Springer was an officer in the 1st Regiment Middlesex Militia and settler of the Delaware area of Upper Canada.
Jacob Yeigh
Yeigh was a lieutenant in 1st Regiment Oxford Militia. Other family members also participated in the war. British forces often used a Yeigh house in Burford, Upper Canada, as a meeting point. The Yeigh family were early settlers of Burford; the historical community remains in present-day Ontario.
Benajah Mallory
Mallory was an early and prominent settler of the village of Burford, Upper Canada, now Ontario. Captain of the 1st Regiment, Oxford militia for a time, Mallory eventually joined the Canadian Volunteers, a regiment sympathetic to the United States. Consequently, during the assizes held in Ancaster, 1814, he was convicted in absentia of the crime of treason.
Prior to the war, Mallory had been elected to the Legislative Assembly in 1804. The election for representation of Norfolk, Oxford, and Middlesex had been a competitive one between Mallory and Samuel Ryerse and, years later, with Mahlon Burwell. Mallory was also a justice of the peace in 1806. In the legislature, he supported members, including Joseph Willcocks, on many issues, such as equal rights for the inhabitants of Upper Canada regardless of their religion.
Mallory’s opposition to various motions in the Assembly spurred much divisiveness in the House and took a toll on Mallory’s personal life. He suspected affluent government officials were conspiring to drive him to bankruptcy.
After leaving Upper Canada for the United States in 1813 to join the Company of Canadian Volunteers, he proved himself an able soldier at various engagements against his previous British and Canadian countrymen. He was promoted to major and encouraged fellow American fighters to maintain a steady offensive to drive what he believed to be was British tyranny from the continent.
Following Willcocks’ death in September 1814, Mallory was made leader of the Volunteers. There was much disagreement amongst the company; Abraham Markle, a fellow member of the Upper Canada House of Assembly who had also defected to the United States, accused Mallory of various crimes and took over leadership of the company.
Mallory lost his lands in Upper Canada and arranged for his wife and family to join him in the United States. His wife, Abia, had been raising their five children and moved to New York to be with her husband. However, their relationship deteriorated when he was sent to prison on charges of theft.
Abia Dayton-Mallory eventually returned to Upper Canada and joined her mother, Abigail Cogswell, in Gananoque who had married Colonel Joel Stone following the death of Abraham Dayton at Burford. Stone was a prominent businessman and militia officer who held various government positions throughout his lifetime.
Mallory remarried in July 1853. He died a month later in Lockport, New York.
Andrew Westbrook
Westbrook was a settler in the area of Delaware, Western District, who became sympathetic to the United States. As well as being a spy, he led marauders on a campaign of terror, plunder, and destruction throughout the Western District and surrounding areas. He was indicted in absentia at the assizes in Ancaster 1814 for the crime of treason.
Major Thomas Buck
Buck was the commander in the King’s 8th Regiment at Fort Erie, Upper Canada during the American advance into the Niagara District in early July 1814. The United States forces easily captured the sparsely manned fort from the British forces.
Tecumseh (Techkumthai)
A Shawnee chief who came to ally himself with the British in the hopes of protecting and preserving territory for First Nations and Native Americans amid the rapid expansion of European settlement.
Born in Ohio, Tecumseh was the son of the Shawnee chief, Puckeshinwau, and it is thought that his mother, Methoataske, may have had Creek ancestry. During the violent turmoil in the Ohio region and of the Northwest Indian Wars, Tecumseh’s father and brother were killed. Tecumseh joined the continuing struggle of those wars and participated in several major battles of the Northwest Indian Wars. However, as more Indigenous lands were lost, ceded to the United States government for settlement, Tecumseh began to urge Indigenous peoples to unite in a common cause.
Tecumseh was chosen to lead and joined his brother, Tenskwatawa, also known as The Prophet, along the Tippecanoe River, Indiana, at a village called Prophetstown. From there, Tecumseh travelled throughout the United States and Canada in an effort to unify Native Americans and First Nations into a confederacy that could protect their lands from further encroachment.
Eventually, as the British and United States became engaged in the War of 1812, and following the powerful victory of United States forces at Tippecanoe, Tecumseh sought to strengthen his forces by allying with the British during the war. General Isaac Brock supported an independent First Nations territory south of the Great Lakes. Many nations joined Tecumseh’s efforts: Potawatomi, Ojibwa, Shawnee, Ottawa, Winnebago, Kickapoo, Delaware, Wyandot, Menominee, Miami, Piankeshaw, Sioux, Abenaki, Métis, and others; but there were some who wished to remain loyal to their treaties with the United States.
After the British defeat on Lake Erie by Commander Oliver Hazard Perry and his naval forces in September 1813, some warriors dispersed from Fort Amherstburg when Colonel Henry Proctor organized a withdrawal from the fort toward Burlington Heights. Tecumseh requested arms and ammunition be left for the use of those remaining and committed to fight for First Nations territory.
Finally, in a poorly devised attempt to make a stand against the United States forces following his retreat, and likely to appease Tecumseh, Proctor chose a battleground near Moraviantown along the Thames River, Upper Canada. On October 5, 1813, Proctor’s small force of regulars and militia formed a line in a clearing next to Tecumseh and his forces waiting in a swampy, forested area near the British. United States forces attacked and the British scattered quickly leaving Tecumseh and his warriors to fight. It was a decisive American victory. Tecumseh was killed: His remarkable vision died.
More Indigenous lands continued to be ceded to governments. During the peace negotiations between Britain and the United States, the assurance of British insistence of the inclusion in the treaty of a First Nations/Native American independent territory was abandoned.
Along a quiet stretch of road, Longwoods Road/Highway 2, between Thamesville and Moraviantown, Ontario, near the Thames River, there are historical markers/plaques, and story boards commemorating the fallen visionary, Tecumseh, as well as the Battle of the Thames (Battle of Moraviantown), and other related markers.
Roundhead (Stiahta, Stayeghtha)
Stiahta, also known as Roundhead, was a Wyandot chief who joined Tecumseh’s unified stand against European encroachment. The powerful war chief and his warriors participated in many battles during the tumultuous time of advancing settlement into Indigenous territories. Roundhead also participated with other leaders in ceding land to the United States government, as well as to the British Crown on the Canadian side of the Detroit River.
He supported Tecumseh’s brother, Tenskwatawa, in his spiritual teachings and joined Tecumseh in protecting Native American and First Nations Territory. The fierce warrior fought in a number of early battles during the War of 1812.
It is suggested by some that the sash gifted to Tecumseh by General Brock was given to Roundhead by Tecumseh in respect of Roundhead’s prowess and seniority as a leader and warrior. It is not known for certain, as there were a number of distinguished warriors allied with Tecumseh.
Roundhead died in 1813, possibly in battle or from natural causes; the exact reason is unknown.
John Brant (Ahyouwaeghs, Ahyonwaeghs)
Allied with the British and a close friend of fellow leader John Norton, Captain John Brant fought in a number of battles throughout the War of 1812, such as the Battle of Queenston Heights, Beaver Dams, and those along the Niagara River in 1814. He was Mohawk leader Joseph Brant’s youngest son. Through his mother, Catherine’s, lineage, (Catherine/Adonwentishon Croghan) he became a chief/sachem, Tekarihoga, to the Grand River Mohawk people.
Following the war, John Brant became involved in matters relating to Six Nations along the Grand River in Upper Canada, now Ontario. He was appointed Resident Indian Superintendent for the Grand River Mohawk in 1828. The well-educated young Brant promoted the establishment of schools for the people of the Six Nations. He became involved in various contentious issues during his lifetime; in particular, regarding the lands granted to the Six Nations by Governor Sir Frederick Haldimand in 1784 following the American Revolution as they supported the British throughout the revolutionary war and had lost their territory as a result. Brant travelled to England to present his concerns. As well, Brant and other representatives of the Six Nations had many concerns regarding the construction of the Welland Canal on Six Nations land; various concerns are ongoing issues.
In 1830, Brant was elected to the Legislative Assembly for Haldimand; however, his elected position was disputed with questions surrounding his eligibility due to land ownership. Brant stepped down as a result. He was the first First Nations member to serve in the Provincial House of Legislative Assembly.
Mohawk Chief John Brant died at a young age during the cholera epidemic of 1832. He rests with his father in a tomb beside His Majesty’s Royal Chapel of the Mohawks. The historic church is located in Brantford, Ontario, First Nations Territory along the Grand River where once stood a Mohawk village. It is a National Historic Site of Canada and still offers chapel services.
Major General James Wilkinson
Wilkinson was a commander in the United States forces. He was a controversial figure suspected of espionage with Spain amongst other scandals.
Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Wanton Morrison
Morrison was an officer in the King’s 89th Regiment of Foot. A promising commander who fought in the major battles of Crysler’s farm and Lundy’s Lane.
Lieutenant-Colonel John Murray
Murray was a commander in the King’s 100th Regiment of Foot. In the freezing cold of a December night, 1813, he led the daring raid and subsequent capture of Fort Niagara. The regiment went on to fight at the Battle of Chippewa and at the Siege of Fort Erie.
Commander William Howe Mulcaster
Mulcaster was a Royal Navy Officer. He was part of the British naval presence serving under Commodore Yeo in the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. A bold officer who refused the leadership of the squadron at Fort Amherstburg, Commander Mulcaster was engaged in numerous forays throughout the years 1813 and 1814 until a severe wound ended his career as commander of a ship.
Captain Daniel Pring
A Royal Navy Officer who was given command of the naval depot on the Richelieu River at Île aux Noix.
Commodore Sir James Lucas Yeo
Yeo was Commander of the Royal Navy fleet on the lakes of Canada during the War of 1812.
Commodore Isaac Chauncey
Chauncey was the commander of the United States naval fleet on the Great Lakes during the War of 1812.
Vice-Admiral Sir Alexander Cochrane
Cochrane was an experienced naval officer who was made Commander of the Royal Navy’s North American Station in Bermuda and Halifax in the spring of 1814. Admiral Cochrane replaced Admiral Sir John Warren.
Rear-Admiral Sir George Cockburn
Cockburn was second in command to Vice-Admiral Cochrane during the war of 1812. Rear-Admiral Cockburn took part in the British campaign along the eastern seaboard of the United States. He participated in the destructive raids at Chesapeake Bay and surrounding areas, which earned him the reputation as a ruthless, severe invader.
In August of 1814, Cockburn collaborated with Major-General Robert Ross during the two-prong British naval and army offensive toward Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States of America. Following the Battle of Bladensburg, Maryland, he helped to lead victorious British forces into Washington on August 24 and supervised much of the burning and destruction of the town.
Following the razing of Washington, Cockburn and Ross moved toward Baltimore, Maryland. A fierce skirmish between British and United States forces at North Point near Baltimore resulted in the death of General Ross. After repelling the United States defense at North Point, Cockburn continued to Baltimore harbour where the British had begun a naval bombardment of Fort McHenry, the protective fortress of the town of Baltimore. One of the ships under Cockburn’s command was HMS Terror which some years later was adapted to become an Arctic exploratory vessel; Terror was used on several expeditions with her last being the Franklin expedition of 1845. In 1814, HMS Terror was a tough gunner built to fire heavy weaponry including mortars and rockets. The British abandoned their attempts to invade Baltimore.
Soon after the conclusion of the war with the United States, Cockburn returned to England and was tasked with escorting the exiled prisoner Napoleon Bonaparte to the island of St. Helena after Napoleon’s defeat at the Battle of Waterloo.
Major General Jacob Jennings Brown
Brown was a commander of United States forces involved in major battles during the Niagara campaign of 1814.
Brown was born into a Quaker family in Pennsylvania just before the American Revolution. He settled in the state of New York along the Black River where he established mills and helped to clear areas for the development of roads that led to the creation of the village of Brownville. He married Pamela Williams.
Brown began his career with the United States military as an officer in the New York Militia. Initially, he did not support entering into a war with Britain in 1812; however, as tensions between the United States and Britain escalated into a war, Brown served at once. He took charge of the Great Lakes region and following his successful defense of the vital ship depot at Sackett’s Harbour, New York, in May 1813, he was appointed brigadier general in the United States regular army.
Brown led United States forces during the brutal Niagara campaign of 1814 commencing with the capture of Fort Erie, Upper Canada, in June 1814 and participated in several hard-fought battles until the failed British attempts to seize American-held Fort Erie in August of that year.
He received a Congressional Gold Metal in November of 1814 for his leadership during the War of 1812. Brown remained in service for his country for the rest of his life and died in Washington, D.C. in 1828 while serving as Commanding General of the United States Army. He was greatly respected for his dedication and service to his country, and there are a number of place names in his memory throughout the United States.
Major General George Izard
Izard was a commander of the United States forces, 2nd Artillery Regiment, in and around the Lake Champlain area before joining the Niagara campaign of 1814.
General George Scovell
Scovell was a military officer serving on the quartermaster general’s staff under the Duke of Wellington during the war against Napoleon’s forces in Europe and the Peninsula. General Scovell, a linguist, was highly skilled at deciphering code. He organized a special intelligence Corps of Guides that assisted him in effectively intercepting and decoding many of the French army’s military secrets.
Doctor Oliver Tiffany
Tiffany was a physician who resided in the village of Ancaster. He served Ancaster and the surrounding areas for over 40 years.
Doctor William Case
Case was a physician who practiced for many years in the area around Burlington Bay that has become known as Hamilton, Ontario, today. His home in the nearby vicinity was used as a military hospital for a time during the War of 1812.
Chapter 6 – At Long Last
Lieutenant-General Sir George Prevost
Prevost was to become governor-in-chief and commander of the British forces in North America during the War of 1812. He was from a wealthy background and rose quickly in the ranks of his military career. His father was a military man in the British Army and was stationed in British North America when George Prevost was born in the colony of New Jersey.
Prevost participated in active service in the Caribbean during the Napoleonic Wars. He was injured and returned to England for recovery. Afterwards, he received appointments as governor in various places in the Caribbean.
Prevost was appointed governor of Britain’s colony in Nova Scotia in 1808. He gained a reputation as a highly competent administrator while there, as he was able to resolve many contentious issues between the provincial government and powerful church leaders. He improved trade opportunities during the American embargo prior to the War of 1812 when he offered duty exemptions to American goods into British ports such as Halifax.
Upon his arrival in British North America, Prevost worked to improve military facilities and raise militia units to bolster regular British forces stationed there. In 1811, Prevost was appointed governor-in-chief of British North America and promoted to lieutenant-general as commander of British forces. As a result, he and his family moved to Quebec in Lower Canada. Around this time, Prevost set in motion the recruitment in Canada of a light infantry force of militia, specifically trained to operate in the harsh, dense nature of the Canadian wilderness. This special unit became the Glengarry/Glengary Light Infantry Fencibles, one of the toughest, most effective fighters in the War of 1812. Prevost also supported the recruitment of a provincial light infantry regiment for Lower Canada to be organized by Lieutenant Colonel Charles-Michel d’Irumberry de Salaberry. This regiment was known as the Voltigeurs canadien; another sturdy, effective fighting force during the war.
Challenges of governing the nascent colony during wartime in the wild and rough terrain of Canada soon beset the governor. With little forces to combat a United States invasion during the Napoleonic War, Prevost agreed with his orders from England that he remain on a defensive strategy and protect the stronghold of Quebec. Militia and army demands were continuous, as well as those from the commanders of the Royal Navy’s Admiralty ordered to protect British control of the lakes and rivers in Canada.
Prevost’s leadership and withdrawal from an attempt to seize the United States shipbuilding port at Sackett’s/Sacket’s Harbour, New York in May 1813, was met with harsh complaints from British commanders including Royal Navy Commodore Yeo, commander of the fleet on the lakes during the war. The demand for more soldiers, more sailors, and more supplies was a constant worry for Prevost.
With the surrender and abdication of Napoleon Bonaparte in the spring of 1814, Prevost was encouraged by leaders in England to commence a powerful offensive before the end of the year. Prevost’s military might was greatly improved by the addition of troops and commanders from the campaign against Napoleon. Nevertheless, the 1814 campaigns of war in Canada were gruelling, bloody, and un-decisive. Prevost’s well-planned campaign against United States forces at Plattsburg on Lake Champlain, New York in September of 1814 was a humiliating defeat for the British forces in the Battle of Lake Champlain and greatly diminished Britain’s negotiating powers during peace talks in Ghent, Belgium.
Following the ill-fated battle on Lake Champlain, Prevost was once again harshly criticized and accused by some of his commanders of withdrawing from action prematurely. His diplomatic, conciliatory efforts to maintain harmony and order amongst various political rivalries disintegrated with personal attacks on his military defeats.
With the conclusion of the Treaty of Ghent in 1815, Prevost was removed from his position as governor-in-chief of North America. He was ordered to return to England and give his explanation as to his failure to execute a victory at the Battle of Lake Champlain. He requested his conduct be judged by a court-martial where he was confident that allegations against him would be repudiated.
Prevost’s health suffered much during the tribulations of war in British North America. He died in 1816, shortly before an opportunity to defend his actions. In spite of the charges made against him, Governor Prevost was well respected for his attributes as a governor and administrator. Although relationships with some of the regiments’ officers were, at times difficult, overall, Prevost is noted for his congenial manner, his skill at diplomacy, and his efforts to prepare and defend British North America during the War of 1812.
Chapter 8 – On the Brink of Disaster
Joseph Abbott Keeler
Keeler was a founding settler of the communities of Colborne, Norwood, Castleton and Lakeport (Cat Hollow) along the Lake Ontario shores of Ontario.
Elizabeth Posthuma Gwillim Simcoe
Elizabeth was the wife of Colonel John Graves Simcoe, lieutenant-governor of Upper Canada. Through her works of art and descriptive diary entries during her stay in the Canadas, she has left a valuable depiction of life during the late eighteenth century in a vast and virgin wilderness.
Lieutenant-General John Graves Simcoe
Colonel Simcoe was a commander of the Queen’s Rangers during the war for independence in the United States. In 1791, he was appointed the first lieutenant governor of the new province of Upper Canada. He greatly influenced the settlement of the province and the development of the town of York (later to become the city of Toronto, Ontario) and the surrounding areas which included the construction of roads that are part of the province’s landscape to this day: Yonge Street, Dundas Street (also known as Governor’s Road).
James FitzGibbon
The Irish-born FitzGibbon began his career with the military at the young age of 15 years old when he decided to join the militia near his home in County Limerick, Ireland. By 1778, he had become a member of the King’s 49th Regiment of Foot and participated in action against French forces.
In 1802, FitzGibbon accompanied his regiment to Lower Canada under the command of Isaac Brock who was a lieutenant-colonel at the time. Brock saw much promise in the young soldier and encouraged FitzGibbon to pursue more education that would benefit a military career.
Unlike many officers who had wealth and influence to purchase their military ranks, FitzGibbon attained promotion through his own impressive efforts as a soldier. By 1809, he was appointed lieutenant. His participation in the War of 1812 cut short his ambitions to improve his education. He gained recognition as a tough, courageous soldier after delivering stores and armaments to outposts in Upper Canada under extremely difficult circumstances.
In 1813, FitzGibbon participated in the fierce early morning Battle of Stoney Creek. Afterward, he was granted permission to form a well-trained elite company of fighters that would learn skills similar to those of their First Nations allies. The fifty chosen men from the 49th Regiment became adept in stealth tactics that enabled them to move effectively through difficult wooded and uneven terrain common throughout the wilderness of British North America. The company was involved with reconnoitering, sharpshooting, skirmishing, and information gathering. They participated in a campaign to disable marauders that were causing hardship amongst the citizens of the Niagara River area. The daring unit gained a reputation for their fierce surprise attacks, often on horseback, earning various names, such as Irish Greens, Green Uns, Bloody Boys, and as part of the tenacious 49th Regiment of Foot, the Green Tigers due to the colour of their uniform facings.
A notable event of the War of 1812 involved the wife of wounded soldier James Secord. While recuperating at his home amongst the American soldiers who had commandeered his premises following a recent battle, Secord’s wife, Laura, obtained information regarding an impending attack on FitzGibbon’s headquarters at the DeCew homestead near Beaver Dams in the Niagara region. Laura’s dangerous trek to warn FitzGibbon has become legendary. FitzGibbon obtained a complete surrender from the American forces after a strong force of First Nations allies aided British forces in subduing the larger American force at Beaver Dams, June 24, 1813.
By the fall of 1813, FitzGibbon was promoted to captain of a company in the stalwart Glengarry Light Infantry Fencibles. FitzGibbon and his company conducted reconnaissance and participated in various battles for the remainder of the war.
Along with his wife and family, FitzGibbon settled in York, Upper Canada. He took interest in the community and was employed in various government positions as well as being appointed colonel of the local militia. He was often called upon to settle disputes amongst settlers, particularly those from his homeland of Ireland. He participated in events regarding William Lyon MacKenzie and the attempts made for government reforms during the time known as the Rebellion of 1837. Over the years, however, FitzGibbon became debt-ridden, and he struggled to obtain what he believed to be his just compensation for loyalty and service to his country. After many long years in Canada, the well-respected veteran soldier, considered a hero of the War of 1812 by many, returned to England following the death of his wife, Mary (Haley). He became a Military Knight of Windsor, which, to this day, is a company of retired military officers. The historic company provides support for the Order of the Garter (a historic British order of knights and ladies) affiliated with St. George’s Chapel, in the way of prayers, ceremonial duties, escorting, and parades. As per custom of the Military Knights of Windsor, members are provided with living quarters at Windsor Castle and receive their military pensions.
Colonel James FitzGibbon died at Windsor Castle in 1863 and was buried in the crypt at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle in the County of Berkshire, England.
Lieutenant Moore Hovendon
Hovendon was a Loyalist who settled on the shores of Picton Bay near the site of a carrying place/portage route that was often referred to as Hovendon’s Landing.
Eliakim Barnum
Barnum was a settler of Northumberland County, Upper Canada (Ontario), who was active in his community of Grafton (Haldimand). Barnum House, as it is known, was constructed in the neo-classical style, and it is similar to one of the Keeler houses built in the village of Colborne nearby.
James Norris
Norris was a settler in Northumberland County, Upper Canada. His home was subject to a devastating fire during the war, which is said to have been caused by soldiers billeting in his home at the time. Consequently, he sold his property to his neighbour, Eliakim Barnum, who constructed his unique home atop the remains of the Norris house.
Smiton Simmons
Simmons was a settler, first in Prince Edward County, then he and his family acquired land in Cramahe Township, Northumberland County. During the war he was commissioned as a 1st Class Mechanic to build and maintain various transport vehicles such as, wagons and sleighs.
Chapter 9 – Sodom and Gomorrah
Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Pearson
Pearson was a stalwart officer of the Royal Welch Fusiliers. Despite a lingering wound he received during battle in the Peninsular War against Napoleon, Colonel Pearson was involved in a number of engagements against United States forces throughout the War of 1812 receiving several more injuries, one of which occurred during the fight for Fort Erie that blinded him for a time.
Major Charles Plenderleath
Plenderleath was a daring commander in the 49th Regiment who participated in many battles throughout the war.
Lieutenant John St Alban Sewell
Sewell was the son of Jonathan Sewell, Chief Justice of Lower Canada. His mother is believed to be Elizabeth Cornfield.
Sewell joined the King’s 49th Regiment of Foot in 1811. Contingents of the regiment, under Lieutenant-General Isaac Brock, joined the British forces in North America during the War of 1812 and fought at a number of engagements, including the Battle of Stoney Creek in June 1813, as well as the Battle of Crysler’s Farm in November 1813.
Sewell married Margaret Hobbs of Ireland in the fall of 1821. They established their home in Quebec (City) where they lived for the remainder of their lives. John and Margaret are buried at the historic Mount Hermon Cemetery, a National Historic Site of Canada, located in Quebec City, Quebec.
Captain Dixie Ellis
Ellis was a member of the 49th Regiment of Foot and participated in the Battle of Crysler’s Farm.
Captain George W. Barnes
Barnes was part of a company, 2nd Battalion, of the King’s 89th Regiment of Foot that joined the British forces in North America during the War of 1812. The company participated in a number of battles, such as the Battle of Crysler’s Farm in November 1813 and the Battle of Longwoods in March 1814.
Brigadier General John Parker Boyd
Boyd was an officer in the United States Army who had acquired much battle experience as a mercenary in India. During the war of 1812, he was part of several major battles, which included the capture of Fort George in May 1813 and the Battle of Crysler’s farm in November 1813.
Brigadier General Robert Swartout
Swartout was quartermaster general for the United States Army and brigadier general who commanded the Fourth Brigade, comprised of 11th, 14th, and 21st U.S. Infantry Regiments during the battle at John Crysler’s farm.
J.T. Woodford
Woodford was an officer in the U.S. Second Regiment of Light Dragoons. The regiment was involved in various engagements throughout the war.
Brigadier General Leonard Covington
General Covington, an officer in the United States Army, hailed from Maryland. He died from a wound he received while leading an advance with the Third Brigade, comprised of the 9th, 25th, and 16th United States Army Regiments during the Battle of Crysler’s farm.
Captain George Jackson
Jackson was a British officer of the Royal Artillery who participated at the Battle of Crysler’s farm.
Major James B. Dennis
Dennis was a British officer in the 49th Regiment. Major Dennis was active in many battles throughout the war.
Colonel Benjamin Forsyth
Forsyth was a commander of a daring United States rifle regiment during the War of 1812 that caused some havoc, in particular, along the St. Lawrence waterway.
Guillaume Demorest (Guillaume de Morest)
Demorest came to the township of Sophiasburg in Prince Edward County following the American Revolution. He constructed mills along a creek that flowed from Fish Lake. A village began around the mills and the small community, named Demorestville after its founder, eventually grew to become one of the busiest towns in Ontario. The little hamlet, once known as Sodom by some, boasted a slew of businesses, such as mills, tanneries, stores, factories, schools and more. However, in the early part of the 20th century, Demorestville declined and returned to being a quaint little village. The name Sodom has long gone; however, the Gomorrah Road remains near the village.
A mystery surrounds the story regarding a ruinous fire that possibly occurred in the early part of the 1900s. So far, there seems to be little historical, documented evidence to support such a drastic event.
Chapter 10 – In the Company of Strangers
Thomas Dorland
Dorland was a soldier loyal to the King during the American Revolution though he was a Quaker. Captain Dorland was among a group of Loyalists who came to Upper Canada with Peter Van Alstine to settle along the Bay of Quinte. Thomas Dorland owned much land and operated the ferry service from Adolphustown to Glenora (Van Alstine’s Mills). He took an active role in politics and during the war he was a captain in the 1st Lennox Militia.
Peter Van Alstine
Major Peter Van Alstine of the American Revolution was a Loyalist who led a number of fellow Loyalists to the Bay of Quinte following the end of the American Revolution. He took part in a variety of political affairs in the area, as well as constructing a well-known gristmill in a busy settlement that was often referred to as Van Alstine’s Mills at the base of the Lake on the Mountain. Today, his mill still stands at the same spot in a place we now call, Glenora. The Major also operated a ferry service from his mills to the opposite shore, Adolphustown.
Alva Stevens
Stevens was from New York where he had been a hatter. The British suspected him of being a spy for the American cause. Following time spent imprisoned, he was hired as a ferry operator at the Van Alstine’s Mills location for a time.
Calvin Pier
Also a hatter, Pier was Alva Stevens’ cousin and had accompanied Alva to the Bay of Quinte.
Asa Danforth Jr.
Lured to Upper Canada by generous offers of land to settlers, Asa Danforth was commissioned to construct a road from the capital of York eastward to the mouth of the Trent River. The debt-ridden Asa Danforth eventually returned to the United States. Although “somewhat” completed, the road was left wanting; however, parts of it remain today, and although it was officially named the Dundas Road, to many, it is still referred to as the Danforth Road (not to be confused with Danforth Avenue that runs through the city of Toronto as a connection to the Danforth Road).
Thomas Young
Young was an English physician, as well as a physicist, well known for his experiments with light and his subsequent wave theory of light. He developed a keen interest in a diverse array of subjects, such as languages, philosophy, history, chemistry, to name a few. He became intrigued with Egyptology and studied the Rosetta Stone in an effort to decipher its fascinating hieroglyphs.
Jean-Francois Champollion
Champollion is well regarded for his contributions to the study of and decipherment of Egyptian hieroglyphs. Like his contemporary, Thomas Young, Champollion was an ardent student of languages. He was very interested in their historic origin and the way in which languages were developed and structured.
Colonel Joel Stone
Stone was Loyalist who became a founder of the town of Gananoque along the Gananoque River, a tributary of the St. Lawrence River in eastern Ontario. He was a landowner and businessman who invested in the construction of a number of projects in the growing community, such as mills, stores, ferry service and more. He was also involved with municipal affairs and was a colonel in the 2nd Regiment of the Leeds militia.
Lieutenant-Colonel Colquhoun Grant
An officer in the Duke of Wellington’s (Lieutenant-General Sir Arthur Wellesley’s) army, Grant became a highly effective member of the intelligence team, the Corps of Guides. As an Exploring Officer, he often penetrated behind enemy lines to procure vital information for the duke’s campaign against Napoleon’s forces. He has sometimes been referred to as a gentlemen spy.
Sir Arthur Wellesley
Arthur Wellesley had fought in a number of battles in India before entering the British campaign against Napoleon Bonaparte. Promoted to Lieutenant-General, he took command of British forces in Portugal, and following a number of battles, he was eventually promoted to Field-Marshal. Upon Napoleon’s surrender in 1814, Arthur Wellesley was awarded the title of Duke of Wellington. The Duke of Wellington took command of the British forces following Napoleon’s escape in 1815 from the island of Elba, and the two soon fought against one another at the Battle of Waterloo, a famous, decisive victory for the British and their allies.
Captain James Cook
Cook was a British naval officer, explorer, and navigator renowned for his expeditions into the Pacific, charting and mapmaking much of the Pacific’s North American northwestern coastline, as well as those of various islands throughout the Pacific. In HMS Endeavour, he travelled to the shores of Tahiti, New Zealand and Australia, charting and recording his observations. Astronomers and botanists accompanied his voyages, taking notes and specimens from the various places where they sailed. Another extensive exploratory voyage, which included the Antarctic region, was made in HMS Resolution along with HMS Adventure. Resolution was used for his final voyage, along with HMS Discovery, in 1776 during an unsuccessful attempt to locate the Northwest Passage. He suffered a brutal death during the voyage back to England while stopping amongst the Hawaiian Islands.
Early in his career, he explored the Atlantic coast of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland surveying and charting with precise detail. He surveyed parts of the St. Lawrence River and was involved in the Siege of Louisbourg and Quebec (with regard to his valuable charts). James Cook is also noted for his contribution regarding the prevention of scurvy.
Captain George Vancouver
Vancouver was a British naval officer, explorer, and navigator. Captain Vancouver had the opportunity to learn the skills needed to be a competent midshipman, officer, and surveyor under the direction of Captain James Cook. He served aboard HMS Resolution during Captain Cook’s second voyage and Resolution’s companion ship, HMS Discovery, during Captain Cook’s third voyage.
In the following years, a new ship was constructed and named for Captain Cook’s companion ship, Discovery, on which George Vancouver was in command in 1791 on a voyage to locate a northwest passage. During the long, exhaustive inspection and surveying of the northwest coast of North America, Captain Vancouver was not successful in locating a northwest passage; however, his detailed surveys proved most valuable and many place names in Canada’s British Columbia, including the island that bears his name, remain in use, as well as Jervis Inlet, Observatory Inlet, King Island, Sarah Point, and many more. During his voyage in the winter seasons, Captain Vancouver conducted thorough surveys of the Sandwich Islands (Hawaii) and some of the coast along Alta California (California).
Captain William Bligh
Bligh was a British naval officer who served under Captain James Cook as a sailing master aboard HMS Resolution on Captain Cook’s third voyage. The young sailing master conducted skillful surveying work of his own during the voyage, some of which were published following the voyage. In spite of a promising career, he was dogged by a reputation of being short-tempered, foul-mouthed, and of exerting harsh discipline following a trial held for the mutineers aboard a sloop, Bounty, while under his command in 1789. He was acquitted of charges and went on to fight in several naval battles, including the Battle of Copenhagen while serving with Admiral Nelson. He was appointed governor of New South Wales for a time, but often continued to have conflicts with others. Although William Bligh possessed exceptional seamanship and navigational skills, he appears to have experienced difficulties as a commander or leader of others.
William Wales
Wales was a mathematician and astronomer who, as part of a “scientific” team, accompanied James Cook on his second voyage aboard HMS Resolution. During the voyage, he conducted meticulous observations regarding the various methods of calculating longitude and latitude, in particular with regard to John Harrison’s newly designed chronometer (he used watchmaker Larcum Kendall’s copy of such known as K1). He was connected with the Royal Observatory in Greenwich and contributed to the Nautical Almanac.
Prior to that, William Wales was part of a global effort to observe and study a rare phenomenon called the transit of Venus. Wales was posted to observe from the Hudson’s Bay Company’s outpost, Prince of Wales Fort, at Churchill, Manitoba, 1768 to 1769. Consequently, his notes and details of his scientific observations and of his experience in northern Canada were a valuable contribution to Canada’s history.
He also played an important role along with fellow contemporaries in ensuring the notes of one of Canada’s early explorers, Samuel Hearne, were successfully published, thereby adding to early historical knowledge about Canada’s vast northern regions and its Indigenous people.
Joseph Cawthra
Cawthra was a very successful merchant in York, Upper Canada. He owned and operated a store containing such merchandise as medical supplies, groceries, and other household items. He took an active interest in local affairs including politics and banking within his community.
Jesse Ketchum
Ketchum owned a tannery in York and became a prosperous businessman. Education was of great importance to him, and he was a supporter of the construction of a common school in York. He also was a generous supporter of the community’s other various charities. He took an interest in politics for a time.
Like many other business owners in York, he was also a landowner and speculator, not only in the York area but also in the Buffalo area. He moved to Buffalo, United States, later in his life when he relocated his tannery business there. In Buffalo, he continued to support educational works and often donated land for construction of schools, churches, and charities.
Ketchum Manufacturing located in Brockville, Ontario, was founded by Jesse Ketchum’s descendants.
John Dennis
Dennis was a shipbuilder who had emigrated from the United States to Upper Canada. He was employed at the King’s dockyard in Kingston for a time as a master shipbuilder before relocating to the dockyards of York. Eventually, he became an independent shipbuilder and acquired property in York and the surrounding areas by the Humber River. He took part in politics and various municipal affairs.
Captain John Button
Button was a Loyalist who settled in the Markham area near York. He formed one of the first cavalry units of Upper Canada from volunteer members of the local area. Captain Button’s dragoons, known as Captain John Button’s Troop of Markham Dragoons, was a well-respected unit which has been perpetuated in connection to the Governor General’s Horse Guards. The village of Buttonville was eventually established many years later.
Captain Thomas Coleman
Coleman was commander of the Provincial Corps of Light Dragoons, His Majesty’s Canadian Light Dragoons. The unit was formed in Montreal and fought in many engagements in Upper Canada.
The Canadian Light Dragoons are perpetuated by The Royal Canadian Hussars (Montreal) Armour Regiment, whose lineage is associated with The Canadian Light Dragoons.
Thomas Paine
To many, Paine was a philosopher, who was an author of a series of papers regarding highly contentious issues to do with politics and religion. His ideas challenged his countrymen of England and inspired others to examine the role of hierarchy and monarchy in a time when political discourse seemed prevalent throughout parts of the world as empires grew.
Upon meeting Benjamin Franklin, Paine decided to go to America where he produced his pamphlet, Common Sense; Addressed to the Inhabitants of America, said by some to have influenced the Declaration of Independence. While in America, many attribute an anonymous article condemning slavery, African Slavery in America, to Thomas Paine.
When visiting France, he was caught up in the terror of the French Revolution and imprisoned for almost a year before returning to the United States as he was convicted of treason in absentia in England. Although impoverished and out of favour, Thomas Paine continued to write influential and controversial literature and some referred to him as a propagandist.
Thomas Paine was also an inventor, and he enjoyed designing bridges. In fact, there is speculation that his theories regarding such may have contributed to the design of the Wearmouth Bridge in Sunderland, England.
Joey, the Parrot
Joey was a cheeky parrot and resident pet at the author’s once, long ago, workplace. He really had a colourful vocabulary.
Chapter 11 – Along A Different Shore
Michael Asselstine
Asselstine was the son of Loyalist parents who settled in Upper Canada. He married and purchased the woollen mills from his father-in-law, Isaac Fraser. Originally located on Mill Creek not far from Ernestown, Upper Canada, Asselstine’s Woollen Mills have been relocated to Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg, Ontario. It is one of the oldest operational woollen mills of the 19th century in North America.
Samuel Slater
Slater was a British subject who answered the United States’ offer of a bounty reward for skilled textile workers, in particular, with regard to cotton manufacturing. Although England forbade those with knowledge of the textile mills and the coveted technology behind them to leave the country, Samuel Slater settled at Rhode Island where he constructed a number of cotton mills. Such advanced technology enabled the United States to become independent in this industry and contributed to their rising economy.
The consequences of this industry, however, also contributed to a rise in the enslavement of workers to farm the demanding crop of cotton. As well, child labourers and women were employed in the often dangerous and harsh conditions of textile mills throughout England and North America.
Old Slater Mill is a National Historic Landmark located in Pawtucket Falls, Rhode Island, U.S.A.
Edward Jessup
Jessup was a Loyalist and commander of an American Revolutionary force, Jessup’s Rangers. Colonel Jessup settled along the shores of the St. Lawrence River in the township of Augusta. He and his family are founding members of the town of Prescott as much of the historic community was built upon his farm including Fort Wellington. The Colonel was involved with municipal affairs and other interests involved with the growing communities that stretched along the river as far as Ernestown.
Edward Jessup Jr. was also active in the affairs of the family properties and was lieutenant in the local militia during the War of 1812, as well as becoming involved in politics.
Mrs Finkle, Lucretia Finkle (Bleeker)
Lucretia was widow of Henry Finkle. She and her husband were active settlers in the community of Ernestown. Their frame house at Finkle’s Point was not only their home, but also a busy tavern that, like many others of the time, was used for other purposes such as for the court of quarter sessions. The first steamship on Lake Ontario was constructed at the Finkle Shipyards and Lucretia continued to be involved with the shipyard business following the death of her husband.
Mrs Fairfield, Clarissa Fairfield (Fulton)
Clarissa and her husband, William Fairfield Jr., were part of the William Fairfield Sr. family of Fairfield House still located today in Amherstview beside Lake Ontario. Clarissa was William’s second wife. She and William resided not far from Amherstview in nearby Ernestown; their home is now referred to as the Fairfield-Gutzeit House in Bath, Ontario. Ernestown was renamed Bath in 1818.
Clarissa and William were part of the enterprising and vibrant community of Ernestown. Brothers William, Stephen and Benjamin were partners in a mercantile trade company, Benjamin Fairfield and Company. The busy organization provided supplies to the important British garrison located close by at Kingston. The company owned the schooner, Two Brothers.
Mrs Rose, Ruth Rose (Ray)
Ruth married Daniel Rose, a descendant of the Mattias Rose family. Mattias Rose had fought with Edward Jessup and his Rangers during the American Revolution. Afterward, Mattias and his family settled along the shores of Lake Ontario by the Bay of Quinte in and around Ernestown.
There is a Loyalist Rose family that settled in the Niagara area where, coincidentally, another Daniel Rose and his sons were involved with the war, particularly, during the battles along the Niagara River, and their home was often used as a meeting place for the British forces.
Mrs Davy, Sophia Davy (Hoffnel)
Sophia Hoffnel was John Davy’s second wife. Sophia’s husband, John, settled in the Ernestown area along with other members of the Jessup’s Rangers following the American Revolution. The village’s first roads and lot surveys were begun at John Davy’s property. Sophia was a widow in 1814 as John Davy died in 1808.
Mrs Amey, Elizabeth Amey (Shibley)
She and her husband, Joseph Amey, settled in Ernestown where they raised their family and dedicated their lives to the peaceful village along the shores of Lake Ontario. Joseph’s father, Jonas, was a member of Jessup’s Rangers. Elizabeth passed away in 1868, one year after her husband.
Mrs Booth, Margaret (Fraser)
Margaret was the widow of Captain Joshua Booth of the 1st Addington Militia. He was a prosperous landowner and mill owner in the Ernestown vicinity as well as taking an interest in politics.
Mrs Hawley, Lavinia (Ryder)
Lavinia lived a long life of 95 years. She had been married to Jehiel Hawley, a descendant of Captain Jeptha Hawley’s family who had settled in Ernestown along with other members of Jessup’s Rangers. Captain Jeptha Hawley built a house that is believed to be the oldest house still standing and being used as a private residence to this day in Bath (formerly known as Ernestown) Ontario.
Lavinia’s husband was the grandson of Jehiel Hawley of Arlington, Vermont.
Mr Bidwell, Barnabas
Although involved with American politics for several years, Barnabas Bidwell went to Upper Canada in 1810 following accusations of embezzlement. He found employment as a teacher at Ernestown’s new school, the Ernestown Academy. He was a controversial figure who became involved in the politics of Canada, particularly with regard to reforms and the colonialist oligarchy of the day. His son, Marshall Spring Bidwell, was to become involved with politics as a leader of the reform party for a time.
Barnabas was also a co-author with Robert Gourlay of a Statistical Account of Upper Canada, Volume 1.
Mrs Perry, Jemima Perry (Jemima Gary Washburn)
Like many other women amid the tumult of the American Revolution, Jemima was separated from her husband and Loyalist soldier, Robert Perry Sr. She was caring for her young children on the family farm in Vermont when the rebel soldiers confiscated all they owned. Jemima travelled to Canada with her three children finally being reunited with her husband who had become a corporal in Jessup’s Rangers. Jemima and Robert settled by Ernestown where they raised their family and lived out their lives on their farm near the waters that had brought them to their new home.
A son, Peter Perry, became involved with political reforms and was a colleague and friend of Marshall Spring Bidwell.
Mrs Clark, Rebeccah (Babcock)
Rebeccah married William Clark of Ernestown in September 1806. Her parents, David and Thankful Babcock, immigrated to Canada around 1793.
Commodore Hugh Earl/Earle, Royal Navy
Earl, of Scottish descent, was commander of the Provincial Marine stationed at Point Frederick in Kingston, Upper Canada, now Ontario, from 1812 to 1813, when Commodore Sir James Lucas Yeo and the Royal Navy took charge of the dockyard during the war.
HMS Royal George was a powerful warship at the onset of the war. Earl was in command of the ship during the failed British offensive at Sackett’s Harbour, New York, in the summer of 1812. In November, the United States Navy commander, Commodore Isaac Chauncey, led a fleet into the Bay of Quinte in an offensive plan to capture the Royal George and the important naval dockyard at Kingston.
Chauncey’s determined efforts failed, however, despite pursuing Royal George from the bay as Earl headed to the King’s dockyard. Royal George was aided by an effective defense against Chauncey’s ships from shore as well as from Royal George. The successful race by the Royal George to elude enemy capture has come to be a legend.
Earl made his home in Kingston with his wife, Ann, daughter of Molly Brant and Sir William Johnson. Molly Brant was the sister of the influential Mohawk leader, Joseph Brant. Sir William Johnson was Superintendent of Indian Affairs in the Province of New York during the North American campaign of the Seven Years’ War.
Chapter 13 – The Day After Tomorrow
Major Richard Butler Handcock
Handcock was a commander in His Majesty’s 13th Regiment of Foot who led a contingent of forces in defense of the British blockhouse at Lacolle Mills near the Richelieu River against a sizeable United States Force in March 1814.
Lieutenant-Colonel William Congreve
Congreve was an artillery officer in the King’s army who was also an inventor. He developed a rocket for military purposes based on those he had witnessed being used during the wars in India.
Chapter 14 – Like a Thief in the Night
Lieutenant-Colonel Stephen Burritt
Burritt was a lieutenant-colonel in the 2nd Regiment of the Grenville militia. Burritt had been a soldier with Roger’s Rangers during the Revolutionary war, and, as a Loyalist, he received a land grant in Augusta Township. He and his wife, Martha, settled along the Rideau River where the village, Burritt’s Rapids, was founded by Colonel Burritt and other family members. Stephen Burritt took an active participation in local affairs and politics.
Martha Burritt was the daughter of Roger Stevens who had been a soldier in the King’s Rangers during the Revolutionary war.
Benjamin Banks
Banks was a violinmaker from Salisbury, England, considered one of the foremost stringed instrument makers of his time being the violin, viola and cello (violoncello or bass violin).
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Mozart was an Austrian composer and youngest member of a musical family. He and his sister, Nannerl, accompanied their father, Leopold, throughout Europe as young musical prodigies. In his short lifetime, Wolfgang became a remarkable composer whose accomplishments included works of opera, sacred, piano, violin, cello, wind and more.
In Elizabeth’s Quest, Chapter 3, and in A Quest Renewed, Chapter 61, Elizabeth Benton plays Mozart’s Rondo in A minor, K. 511.
Ludwig van Beethoven
Beethoven was a German composer who, despite chronic illness throughout his lifetime and suffering from deafness later in his life, became a successful famous composer. Like Mozart, Beethoven wrote a variety of extraordinary works.
In A Quest Renewed, Chapter 14, Elizabeth Benton and Captain Hilary Fox perform a duet from Beethoven’s composition for piano and mandolin, Sonatina for Mandolin and Harpsichord in C Major, Wo0 44a.
Chapter 16 – Fateful Destiny
William Dunlop
Like many surgeons attached to the various regiments during the War of 1812, Dr Dunlop worked tirelessly to meet the extraordinary and, oftentimes, overwhelming conditions and numbers of injured and ill soldiers. The young soldier was assigned to the 89th Regiment of Foot as assistant surgeon. He was a colourful character who would eventually be linked to Canada, particularly Huron County, Goderich, and the Maitland River, until his death. Known for his humour, wit, and eccentricities, William Dunlop would go on to become an author, politician, justice of the peace, and was involved with John Galt and the Canada Company as Warden of the Forests.
Following the war, and prior to returning to Upper Canada from Scotland, he earned the name ‘Tiger’ Dunlop while tiger hunting in the Bay of Bengal.
Two of his noted publications are, Recollections of the American War 1812-1814; Statistical Sketches of Upper Canada for the Use of Emigrants, by a Backwoodsman.
William Gilkison
Gilkison was a forwarding agent and merchant who located his business operations in Prescott, Upper Canada. He was a naval man who once worked for the North West Company before accepting service in the war. Captain Gilkison, his wife, and family relocated from Brockville to Prescott in 1811.
The Gilkisons returned to Scotland following the War of 1812. Eventually, William came back to Upper Canada, and he settled on a farm near Brantford, Ontario; a well-known thoroughfare for area residents, Gilkison Street, was named after him as the west side of the city is located on a section of the once Gilkison farm.
The picturesque town of Elora was established by William on land he had purchased years after the war.