John Graves Simcoe
John Graves Simcoe
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Sat., Feb. 13, 2010 |
Milling about Ontario Assist farmer P. J. Fitzgerald (a.k.a. John Warburton) as he threshes, winnows, and grinds wheat into flour. Then, follow the industrialization of the province with the focus on Loyalist and local water-powered Grist Mills. Learn how they worked, where they were, and where they are. John Dale Warburton U.E. Born in Paignton, Devon, England (not far from the final resting place of John Graves Simcoe), John came to Canada in 1953, where he was raised and educated in Toronto and Scarborough. He has had many roles in the education and historical fields: - Former school teacher in Scarborough John has been a contributor to books on Loyalist history in Toronto, an executive member since 1990 of Toronto Branch, UELAC, UELAC, a Central West Region VP, UELAC, and is a recipient of the Ontario Heritage Trust Certificate of Achievement. |
Wed., Mar. 3, 2010 |
The Georgian Town of York, by Richard Fiennes-Clinton The presentation will cover the earliest plans for the Town of York, including plans that were drawn up but never implemented, prior to Simcoe's town of 1793. Also included will be a "virtual" stroll through the early town, as it was in the 1790s, and afterwards. Some of the street names have remained the same, but many have changed. Explore the original nomenclature of early streets, and hear a short biography of some of the Georgian-era luminaries after whom the earliest streets were named. As time went on, and the Georgian era came to a close, the street names were often changed, and the early map of Toronto evolved into today's streetscape. The presentation will describe the homes and buildings from the early Town of York - what was built, what has been lost over the years, and in a few fortunate examples, what has survived. Tens of thousands of buildings have been destroyed in Toronto in the last half century. A few were notable; many were more prosaic, but together they provide a glimpse into how our municipal ancestors lived and worked. While the tangible buildings themselves may have been lost, the images of many remain. Richard Fiennes-Clinton has operated an historical walking tour company called "Muddy York Walking Tours" for over ten years. This presentation will be a hybrid of a number of tours, including Toronto in the Nineteenth Century, and the History of Toronto's Street Names. This is an opportunity to explore early Toronto from the comfort of the indoors, without even having to go outside! An added benefit is that we will have the opportunity to view a few images of "lost Toronto", which isn't possibily when walking the modern city streets. |
Wed., Apr. 7, 2010 6:30pm |
Potluck and Auction Our Spring potluck and auction at Montgomery Inn has been a fun activity each year for twenty years or more. It is a great opportunity to enjoy tasty food and good friends, some who can't make it out to our regular meetings. Perhaps you will win the door prize, or buy a ticket and take home one of the raffle prizes. Or buy that little item n the auction table — just the thing you always wanted. |
Wed., May 5, 2010 |
TBA |
Wed Dec. 2, 2009 7:30pm |
A Dirty, Trifling, Piece of Business, by Gavin Watt (Rescheduled from Oct. 7) Also the title of his latest book about the American Revolution with a focus on the Loyalist - which includes our native allies - participation in partnership with the British forces, this presentation describes raids of 1781. The raids into the Mohawk and Schoharie came in a constant flood. That year there were over thirty-five raids into the Mohawk, Schoharie and upper Hudson Valleys before the two big expeditions of October. So, if you were a farm family somewhere near Canajoharie in the Mohawk, or Middleburg in the Schoharie, or Saratoga in the upper Hudson, you had to be on your guard constantly. You lived in an undercurrent of fear, tension and suspicion. Every stranger on the road; every flitting shadow in the woods; every random shot in the next valley; every column of smoke rising from over the hill — virtually every unexpected event was a potential threat to your life. Some raids were small and opportunistic. A small war band of Indians out for plunder and captives fell on an outlying farm, or ambushed a detachment of rebels. Other raids targeted ardent rebels for abduction, as carrying them off to Canada would damage rebel morale and disrupt their political and military systems. These personages could be exchanged for a senior Briton or loyalist being held captive. The 1781 campaign saw several of these attempts, some comical, some tragic. For instance, one ended with the senior agent running off with a young girl instead of his target. Still others were larger native raids. One of the greatest disasters to rebel arms that year was the catastrophic, perfectly-executed ambush of a company of rangers by Onondagas and Cayugas. Then, there were the British Secret Service's frustrating negotiations with the independent republic of Vermont. They kept Vermont out of the war and gave the British free-reign of Lakes Champlain and George. Secret Service operatives were drawn from the King's Rangers, Royal Yorkers and Peters', Jessup's and McAlpin's Corps. The two climactic expeditions came in October. Major John Ross led forces deep into the Mohawk Valley, almost to Schenectady, without a single rebel scout discovering their presence. Almost simultaneously Lieutenant-Colonel Barry St. Leger led forces south on Lake Champlain to Ticonderoga. This large expedition did very little fighting; its major role was a feint to draw off rebel forces, which it most successfully accomplished, and to bring the Vermont negotiations to a climax - for which purpose it failed. For more details of the book, visit UELAC.org's book reviews section. Gavin Watt, a resident of the Toronto area has been retired from his working career for nearly ten years, but will likely never retire form his avocation, military history. He is the founder, and was President, of the Museum of Applied Military History from 1977-2007. But to those of us with Loyalist interests, his presence has been keenly appreciated. Gavin is the founder, and was Officer Commanding, of the recreated King's Royal Yorkers from 1975-2006, a unit with which he continues his valued involvement. Perhaps to a much broader audience of historically interested readers, Gavin has researched extensively the military actions and people of the American Revolution, and authoured or co-authoured several books, including "The Burning of the Valleys, Daring Raids Against the New York Frontier in the Fall of 1780", "The Flockey — 13 August 1777 — The Defeat of the Tory uprising in the Schoharie Valley" and "Rebellion in the Mohawk Valley — The St. Leger Expedition of 1777" which was selected by Books on Canada 2003 for History as an example of "best writing and research". Gavin's passion for military research is evident in his contributions as Honorary Vice-President of the UELAC, and his enthusiastic presentations - don't miss it. |
Wed Nov. 4, 2009 7:30pm |
As the Thirteen Colonies moved towards civil war, those loyal to the Crown found life increasingly difficult. Throughout the war, Loyalists packed up their families, valuables and most portable possessions, and moved behind British lines. Many counted Black slaves among their personal property. Several of these slave-owning families settled in Upper Canada, and advertisements like "For Sale, a Negro Wench" appeared in the newspapers. From information found in original documents, historian Hilary J. Dawson will introduce Henry Prince, Peggy and other people of colour who were regarded as property by such influential figures as William Jarvis and Peter Russell. Hilary Dawson, now a genealogist & historical researcher, grew up in Hull, England. She has a degree in archaeology and mediaeval history from Southampton University, UK. Her interest in Black History has deep roots. Her home town was also the birthplace of William Wilberforce, the abolitionist. Hilary's first museum job was in Wilberforce House, William Wilberforce's home. Hilary's research into nineteenth century Etobicoke Township (York County, now part of Toronto) uncovered a previously unknown Black presence. She curated several Black History Month exhibits at Montgomery's Inn museum. In 2002, the Etobicoke Historical Society presented her with the Jean Hibbert Award for her contribution to Etobicoke's history. She is currently working on the biography of Alfred Lafferty, Chatham's first Black lawyer. The Lafferty family's story (">From Immigrant to Establishment: a Black Family's Journey") appeared in the Spring 2007 issue of Ontario History. |
Wed Oct. 7, 2009 7:30pm |
2009 UELAC Conference Review with Doug Grant Doug Grant was one of the Gov. Simcoe Branch attendees at the 2009 UELAC Conference in Napanee and Adolphustown Ontario. He showed slides taken at the conference and Annual General Meting, and discussed the events held over the course of the long weekend in June. (The originally scheduled speaker, Gavin Watt, was unable to attend. His presentation, "A Dirty, Trifling, Piece of Business," has been rescheduled for December 2.) |
Wed May. 6, 2009 7:30pm |
Facing the Invincible Frenzy: A New England Loyalist and the Ties of Family by Tim Compeau Although the American Revolution tore the British Empire apart, many family and kinship networks remained intact. Some loyalist exiles used their prewar connections to help mitigate the trauma and hardship of exile and reconstruct shattered identities and lives in Upper Canada. Tim will share his research on the biography of Joel Stone, the loyalist founder of Gananoque, Ontario. Stone's story reveals how his family and other personal ties from Connecticut held together in spite of his exile, and helped him form a new community along the St. Lawrence River. Tim Compeau received his Honours BA from Queen's University in 2004. In 2006 he graduated from the University of Western Ontario with an MA in Public History. Tim is in his second year of a PhD at the University of Western Ontario, and is the recipient of the United Empire Loyalist Scholarship. His dissertation is entitled: "Reconciling Revolution: Loyalists and Patriots in the Revolutionary Atlantic, 1775-1815." In it, he intends to explore how cultural conventions, such as honour codes and family allegiance, helped loyalists re-establish themselves and their sense of identity in new situations and environments. |
Wed., Apr. 1, 2009 6:30pm |
Potluck and Auction Our Spring potluck and auction at Montgomery Inn has been a fun activity each year for twenty years or more. It is a great opportunity to enjoy tasty food and good friends, some who can't make it out to our regular meetings. Perhaps you will win the door prize, or buy a ticket and take home one of the raffle prizes. Or buy that little item n the auction table — just the thing you always wanted. |
Wed Jan. 7, 2009 7:30pm |
MEETING CANCELLED DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER Tim Compeau's presentation has been rescheduled for May 6. |
Wed Mar. 4, 2009 7:30pm |
The Power of Three by Fred Hayward, UE, President, UELAC For his presentation on the third month of the year, March 4, Fred proposed to continue an a theme he initiated at his inauguration in Saint John - the power of three. Now one-third the way through his present term of office, he will reflect on at least three of the surprises encountered as president. Of the many challenges facing our organization as we approach our centenary, he said he would try to limit his discussion to a simple triad. As the spring meeting of the Dominion Council will be held three days later, members can expect that the material will be up-to-date. Since he was last here in December 2004, Frederick H. Hayward, our UELAC President, has continued to broaden his understanding of both the operations and history of our Association. While he has yet to find a replacement to handle the specific challenges of the Education and Outreach Committee, he has served as the UELAC Vice-President, with additional responsibilities as Chairman of the Finance Committee and the Grants Committee. Since his July 2008 election in Saint John, Fred has participated in both the Pacific and Prairie Regional meetings in Chilliwack, Vancouver and Regina as well addressed the Col. Butler, Sir Guy Carleton and Heritage Branches. In addition, he has continued to submit articles for Loyalist Trails and the Monuments and Commemoratives section of the Dominion website. |
Sat., Feb. 7, 2009 at noon |
"From Bloody Beginnings; Richard Beasley's Upper Canada" by David Beasley David Beasley will talk about his book, From Bloody Beginnings: Richard Beasley's Upper Canada, and its protagonist. A description of the book follows. Richard Beasley narrates from when he is five years old in 1766 as witness to the tenant rebellions in New York State followed by the American Revolution when his father Henry Beasley and Uncle Richard Cartwright in Albany, New York, risk their lives through the horrors of the civil war for the loyalist forces. Richard Beasley becomes a commissary at Fort Niagara, from which he observes the war out of Niagara featuring his cousin Richard Cartwright Jr,, secretary to Major John Butler of Butler's Rangers, Chief Joseph Brant and Ensign Walter Butler while he continues his fur-trading at Toronto and the Head-of-the-Lake Ontario. After the war, his land dealings, merchant business and association in trade with Richard Cartwright Jr and Robert Hamilton, his arguments on the settlers' behalf in the legislature where he was speaker of the Assembly, and his involvement as agent in the German land companies in Markham and Waterloo Counties, particularly during the Aaron Burr conspiracy with the French to retake Canada, make him suspect to the oligarchy in York, later Toronto. As magistrate and organizer of the militia in West York he takes on several roles during the War of 1812. The battles in the Niagara Peninsula, which involve the 2nd York Regiment of which he is Colonel, he describes in detail. As his intellectual cousin Richard Cartwright becomes more conservative and prominent, Richard Beasley grows more liberal. His correspondence with the famous defender of civil liberties Lord Erskine, his work for a free press, his championing of the reforms of Robert Gourlay and his friendship as a moderate reformer with William Lyon Mackenzie continue the political themes introduced earlier in the book. He manages to overturn the judgment of a military tribunal set up to ruin him by his powerful enemies, including Reverend Strachan and Col. William Claus, for his political views. He relates the economic blights, the pastimes, the joys and sorrows of the settlers with particular emphasis on affairs at the Head-of-the-Lake, which, with his help, becomes Hamilton, a county capital. He gives us interesting details of the Upper Canada Rebellion and shows that many among the Upper Canadian community sympathized with it. In his last stint in the Assembly he does much for the establishment of civil rights and works with his one-time conservative opponent John Beverley Robinson for the country's benefit before the uniting of the provinces in the Act of Union of 1841. RICHARD BEASLEY gives us a personal, continuous and dramatic picture of our history and the characters that made it. Richard died in 1842. David Beasley was born in Hamilton, Ontario; he graduated from McMaster University in 1953, lived in Europe for five years, working, teaching, writing, studying modern French literature in Paris, German romantic literature in Vienna. He came to New York City to marry a lady working in the United Nations and stayed for 35 years. He earned a Master of Library Science degree from Pratt Institute, worked at the New York Public Research Libraries, organized and was president of the library workers' union, and earned a PhD in political economics at the New School for Social Research. He wrote books and articles during this time. Most of his books contain a large amount of original research. He returned to live in Canada in 1992 and has been writing and issuing his books from his Davus Publishing in Simcoe, Ontario. Following is a list of his books, followed by a list of his pamphlets. |
Wed Dec. 3, 2008 7:30pm |
Perspectives of a Native Loyalist by David Kanowakeron Hill Morrison UE Dave Hill Morrison UE is a Status Mohawk of the Six Nations of the Grand River and a direct descendant of Joseph Brant. He lives in the Rochester New York area and is an active member of Grand River Branch. Dave was born, adopted and raised in the Rochester area. He has a B.A. in Psychology and Computer Science and was employed in the IT industry for more than twenty years. A dual-citizen, after a ten-year search, he re-united and began a close relationship with his birthmother on Six Nations in 1991. At age 37, this reconnection with his natural heritage proved to be a personal discovery into a culture and history which eventually exposed him to the story of the United Empire Loyalists. Dave's perspective is a result of living in two countries, three nationalities and three distinct cultures… each with its own nuances and mannerisms. A part of each society, Dave is afforded the option of his allegiances and his presence at this meeting is an indication of his preference. Dave has studied the traditional teachings and history of both the Iroquois Confederacy and his community of the Six Nations. He is active in the Rochester Native community and stays abreast of contemporary issues on both sides of the border. Primarily a writer, Dave also enjoys website designing, computers and traveling. Dave would like to present his perspective as a Native Loyalist, and looks forward to answering questions and lively discussion. |
Wed Nov. 5, 2008 7:30pm |
Life and Times of Colonel David Bridgford by Dinah Cruse-Hunter Colonel David Bridgford was a prominent and colourful figure in the history of Richmond Hill. Born in New York City, he came to "The Hill" around 1799 with his mother and stepfather, Robert Marsh, by way of ox-cart, a two-day journey from the Town of York. Bridgford served in The War of 1812 as a captain, and was ordered to man the Fort of York. He participated in the Battle of Detroit and was present when Commander Hull surrendered. In 1814, he married Lucy Stegman, whose father surveyed much of then Upper Canada. In 1837 he warned the garrison at York of MacKenzie's impending rebellion; he was captured by the rebels and sentenced to death, but was eventually released, only to testify at MacKenzie's trial. Bridgford served as a deputy reeve, a magistrate, a coroner, and president of the Richmond Hill Agricultural Society, before his death in 1868. Dinah Cruse-Hunter was connected to her Bridgford ancestry by a member of the Ontario Genealogical Society as she searched for her father's lineage. She has initiated a project to raise funds to erect a suitable monument to Col. David Bridgford, her 3rd great grandfather, at his gravesite on October 18, 2008 to mark the 140th anniversary of his passing. |
Wed Oct. 1, 2008 7:30pm |
The Facts Behind the Fiction by Jean Rae Baxter When my novel The Way Lies North was released in September 2007, I thought that my work was done. Focusing on the two-year period that followed the defeat of the British and Loyalist forces at the Battle of Saratoga in October 1777, my purpose had been to present a piece of Loyalist history accurately and from a Canadian point of view. My book, though a work of fiction, was based on lengthy research. In carrying it out, I had followed many side branches and had also accumulated a fascinating collection of 18th Century political cartoons, contemporary drawings and formal portraits of historical figures. Until the Hamilton Branch (my branch) of the United Empire Loyalists invited me to speak, I had not anticipated any further use for this material. But upon receiving the invitation, I saw that "The Facts behind the Fiction" would be of as much interest as the book itself. What was life like in the Province of New York, and particularly in the Mohawk Valley, in the 1770's? What did the first Loyalist refugees find upon reaching the Upper Country and the safety of a British fort? These questions could lead to many answers, depending on whether one was talking about politics, or education, or the role of the church, or slavery, or the relationship between white colonists and their First Nations allies. Although each of these subjects would take days to exhaust, this narrative with visual images will deliver a vivid overview of the place and time of the Loyalists. Jean Rae Baxter grew up in Hamilton, but "down home" was the region of Essex and Kent Counties on the shores of Lake Erie where her ancestors had settled, some following the American Revolution and some a century earlier, in the days of New France. There were many family stories to awaken her interest in Canada's past, and frequently in these stories, the lives of settlers were interwoven with those of First Nations people. After earning her B.A. and M.A. from the University of Toronto and a B.Ed degree from Queen's, she taught for many years in the Kingston area, where her interest in Loyalist history led her to find out more about such figures as the Rev'd John Stuart, Sir William Johnson, and Molly Brant. Following her career in education, she returned to Hamilton and embarked upon a writing career. As well as writing short stories and novels, she is the editor of the Hamilton Loyalist, the newsletter of the Hamilton Branch of the United Empire Loyalists' Association of Canada. |
Wed May 7, 2008 7:30pm |
Archaeological Excavations at the Birthplace of Toronto - Fort York National Historic Site (1793 - 1934) by David Spittal, Project Coordinator and Archaeologist, City of Toronto Between 1987 and 2005 a multi-phase restoration project was undertaken at Fort York, a National Historic Site, to renovate the buildings and to upgrade services like sewers and electrical systems. Many of these restoration projects, which reached into every part of the fort, involved digging below ground. There was, therefore, always the possibility that archaeological resources might be disturbed or destroyed. A major archaeological project was initiated to explore the locations of new works in advance of construction. Archaeological work consisted of excavations in areas where development might have a negative impact on buried resources and of archaeological monitoring of construction as it occurred. This talk will show many of the areas of archaeological excavation and monitoring, highlighting discoveries like old roadways and the foundations of earlier buildings. The soil layers of deep, well preserved archaeological deposits and the many artifacts recovered from them will illustrate the long history of the Fort York site, including aboriginal occupation, the founding of the fort in the late 18th century by John Graves Simcoe, the War of 1812, the Rebellion of Upper Canada and other events. David Spittal graduated form the University of Toronto and was employed by the Ontario Government between 1973 and 1987 completing archaeological inventory surveys and excavations in provincial parks, for housing developments and in advance of new highway construction. David moved to the City of Toronto in 1987 and was involved in all aspects of the archaeology project at Fort York between 1987 and 2005 and was Director of the project from 1996 to 2005. He is now Staff Archaeologist and Project Coordinator for the Cultural Assets section of the Culture Division in the City of Toronto. This section has responsibility for the management and care of over 100 heritage buildings on 60 properties across the City. This includes archaeological planning as part of site development. |
Wed., Apr. 2, 2008 6:30pm |
Potluck and Auction Our Spring potluck and auction at Montgomery Inn has been a fun activity each year for twenty years or more. It is a great opportunity to enjoy tasty food and good friends, some who can't make it out to our regular meetings. Perhaps you will win the door prize, or buy a ticket and take home one of the raffle prizes. Or buy that little item n the auction table — just the thing you always wanted. |
Wed Mar 5, 2008 7:30pm |
Le Sentier Partagé - The Shared Path: a historical park project along the Humber river by Lisette Mallet, Coordinator of Société d'histoire de Toronto La Société d'histoire de Toronto was founded in 1984 during the time of Toronto's sesquicentennial celebrations, animated by the desire to tell Torontonians that the place they call home is a lot older than 150 years old. The concept of taking our history telling outside came later through travels in other counties where the preservation of lieux de mémoire is alive and well and where there is less of a fixation on built heritage. So much of Toronto's early history originated along the Humber River that it became clear that it would be the ideal location for a Historical park and that early history is so multi-layered that it couldn't tell the story of just one people. It had to be a shared path. This presentation will guide you through the parks we plan to network physically, visually and virtually; the features we would like to enhance or create and some of the history we would like to highlight from south of St.Clair avenue all the way to the mouth of the Humber. Lisette Mallet is Acadian, born in New-Brunswick and living in Toronto since 19980. Passionate about history, science, the arts and social justice she's been a member of la Société d'histoire de Toronto since 1994. Incorrigible volunteer she's also a member of the Humber Heritage Committee and the Etobicoke-York Heritage Roundtable. She was involved in the activities surrounding the designation of the Humber as a Heritage River. She has recently been appointed as the part-time coordinator to raise awareness of Toronto's history by means of a historical park. The rest of the time she spends as a nature interpreter at the new Centre for Urban Ecology at the Humber Arboretum. |
Sat., Feb. 2, 2008 at noon |
"How the Butlers Rangers Interacted with the Six Nations Warriors during the American Revolution" by Zig Misiak Zig will introduce the uniform of the Native liason officer that he portrays historically and how it fits with my modern day connection with the Six Nations. He will explain the relationship that the Rangers and Six Nations had during the American Revolution. Zig will describe role of warriors as they related to the Grand Council, and the things that they did during the war, some of which most people either find peculiar or just misunderstand them.
Zig will bring a banner, six feet in height, which shows him dressed in a rougher looking uniform which he will explain. In many ways the Rangers were mysterious and complex, and Mr. Misiak will explain some of the characteristics which made them seem so. Zig Misiak has lived and breathed history for many decades. As a member of the Northern Brigade in Canada and the British Brigade in the U.S.A., his primary focus has been early Canadian history during the American Revolutionary war period 1775 to1784. Appointed Lieutenant Native Liaison Officer, this historically accurate position aligns with Zig,s keen interest in the history of the Hotinonshonni (Six Nations), and has taken him to re-enactments in historical forts all over Ontario, Nova Scotia, New York State, Connecticut, Ohio, and Virginia. Zig spent many years on the Board of Directors for PineTree Native Centre and Kanata Village, has been awarded lifetime membership status for his contributions to the First Nations community. Zig is in continual communication with First Nations historians and elders due to an ongoing process of learning and dissertation. Zig has been referenced in a number of history books, interviewed for history theses, and is often consulted relative to Six Nations' history. His Rangers participated in several documentaries such as CBC's A Peoples' History, CBC's Hockey: A Peoples History, The War of 1812 by the McKenna Brothers, The History of the Lincoln and Welland by Madua Studios and lately The History of Brant County and an Ontario Visual Heritage Project "Chatham-Kent" both by Pixel Dust Studios. More collaborative projects which are currently underway relate to the enhancement of Aboriginal history in the educational system. Zig is currently restoring a century home in Brantford, where he lives with his wife and four children all of whom have reenacted with him. He is also adding to his earlier post secondary education by taking advantage of Wilfred Laurier's new home in Brantford. He is currently working on a degree in Contemporary History majoring in Native Studies. For more information, visit Zig's web site at www.realpeopleshistory.com. |
Wed Jan 9, 2008 7:30pm |
“History of Applewood Acres, Mississauga and Area” by David Cook Dave's interest in his home area evolved into his first book Apple Blossoms and Satellite Dishes about the evolution of Mississauga's first subdivision. A second historic volume, From Frozen Ponds to Beehive Glory: The Story of Dixie Arena Gardens followed and a third is now in the works, with a planned publication date of April 2008. Dave will draw upon all of these books as he mixes tales of the early history of the area with more recent events and personalities. As he researched, Dave uncovered some amazing twists and turns. David Cook: When the family farm in Malton, where Dave grew up, was expropriated for Toronto Airport expansion in 1957, his family moved to Applewood Acres (Q.E.W. & Cawthra) where he attended school. He first worked for CHIC radio in Brampton and then for Toronto's CHIC. With experience as an on-air news announcer and in program production, Dave moved to the Mississauga News and then the Etobicoke Gazette. In 1980 he was elected Councillor, City of Mississauga and Regional Municipality of Peel, served three terms and retired in 1988. His most recent career is as an author of local history books. |
Wed Dec 5, 2007 7:30pm |
"Black History" by Dr. Rosemary Sadlier One of the many myths about Canadian history is the idea that the Loyalists were all of British origin! In this lecture, the intersection of Black history with Loyalist history will be discussed with specific reference to Nova Scotia and Ontario. Dr. Rosemary Sadlier was born and raised in Toronto, and has a teaching degree and a graduate degree in social work. She has been president of the Ontario Black History Society since 1993, and was instrumental in making the celebration of Black History Month a national event in Canada. A noted author, her books work to highlight the historical contributions and experiences of Black people in Canada. Her much-praised titles include biographies of Harriet Tubman and Mary Ann Shadd and Leading the Way: Black Women in Toronto. |
Wed Nov 7, 2007 7:30pm |
Taptoos and Piercing - "The hollow drum and shrill fife": The Military Taptoo during the Simcoe Regime - by Ken Purvis. Using musical instruments and recorded musical examples, the various roles of Military music and musicians during the late 18th C. will be explored, with a particular focus on the development of the military taptoo. This presentation Taptoos and Piercing was first presented by Ken at the Munk Centre for International Studies in the spring of 2003 as part of a symposium on John Beckwith's operetta Taptoo! for which Ken fulfilled the role of historical music consultant. The same knowledge of the music of the era helped Ken in 2003, to recruit, train, rehearse and arrange the music for an authentic Napoleonic Military Band which performed for the Louisiana Purchase Bi-centennial in New Orleans. Ken Purvis is the Senior Program Officer at Historic Fort York and has worked in public history for over 20 years. He began his career with the Fife and Drum Corps of the Fort Henry Guard in Kingston in the early 1980s and has continued to research, perform and record early music in a variety of forms and venues. He is the co-founder of the traditional music trio Gin Lane, and of The Regency Parlour Ensemble, both of which continue to entertain with their unique repertoire of early Ontario folk music. |
Wed. Oct. 3, 2007 |
"Canadians at the Table: Food, Fellowship, and Folklore: A Culinary History of Canada" by Dorothy Duncan Canadians at Table is an introduction to the diverse culinary history of Canada. We learn about the lessons of survival of the First Nations, the foods that fuelled the fur traders, and the adaptability of the early settlers in their new environment. As communities developed and transportation improved, waves of newcomers arrived, bringing their memories of foods, beverages, and traditions they had known, which were almost impossible to implement in their new homeland. They learned instead to use native plants for many of their needs. Community events and institutions developed to serve religious, social, and economic needs — from agricultural and temperance societies to Women's Institutes, from markets and fairs to community meals and celebrations. One New World food, pemmican — a light, durable, and highly nourishing blend of dried and powdered buffalo, elk, or deer meat that is mixed with dried berries, packed into a leather bag, then sealed with grease — was introduced by the First Nations to the fur traders coming to Canada. Small amounts of pemmican replaced large amounts of regular food, freeing up precious hunting and food preparation time and allowing more space to carry additional furs and trade goods. From the self-sufficient First Nations and early settlers, including the Loyalists, to the convenience foods of today, Canadians at Table gives us an overview of one of the most unique and fascinating food histories in the world and how it continues to change to serve Canadians from coast to coast. Dorothy Duncan has addressed our branch on several occasions and often provided us with advice as well. She has always been involved with history in the form of museums, restorations and especially interpretation of the past. She has been curator of Black Creek Pioneer Village, and latterly Executive Director of OHS. Retired since Jan. of 2002, she is involved with Cuisine Canada and the Jane Austen Society. Dorothy has received the Order of Ontario, and an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from University of Waterloo. She is a Fellow of the Canadian Museum Association, and most recently was named Woman of the Year by the Toronto Women's Culinary Network. |
Wed., May. 2, 2007 |
"A Passion for Survival: The True Story of Marie Anne and Louis Payzant in Eighteenth-Century Nova Scotia," by Linda G. Layton The lives of the author's ancestors have formed the stuff of legends and sparked the literary imagination of many writers, Margaret Atwood among them. (Atwood's short story, “The Bombardment Continues,” in the book “Story of a Nation: Defining Moments in Our History” was partially based on a previous work by Linda.) “A Passion for Survival” is the first documented account of Louis' tragic death and Marie Anne's unshakeable fortitude as they became engulfed in the French-English warfare in the New World. Mercenary Maliseet natives killed and scalped Louis and took Marie Anne and her children captive, just three years after they emigrated from France to Nova Scotia. The author spent eighteen years researching her Huguenot ancestors and has built this genealogical research into an historical narrative. The author will take you through her research process, tell you how she wrote the book, and offer suggestions for blending your own genealogy into an historical framework. Linda Layton is a twenty-seven-year Burlington resident who has worked at the Oakville Public Library for sixteen years. Although born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, she has deep Nova Scotia roots. As a young girl she often heard the story of her ancestors — the catalyst that sparked her interest in genealogy. |
Wed., Apr. 4, 2007 |
Annual Potluck Our Spring potluck and auction at Montgomery Inn has been a fun activity each year for twenty years or more. It is a great opportunity to enjoy tasty food and good friends, some who can't make it out to our regular meetings. Perhaps you will win the door prize, or buy a ticket and take home one of the raffle prizes. Or buy that little item n the auction table — just the thing you always wanted. |
Wed., Mar. 7, 2007 |
"The Sharon Temple, David Willson and The Children of Peace", by Jeanine Avigdor In the mid-19th century, a religious group in East Gwillimbury Township practised social welfare, educated their girls, established a farmers' co-operative, and built their unique "Temple of Peace", now a National Heritage Site. Jeanine Avigdor will introduce you to the Children of Peace and their charismatic leader, David Willson; and explain some of the symbolism built into the Sharon Temple. Jeanine Avigdor is the editor of "The York Pioneer", the annual publication of the York Pioneer and Historical Society; and is an Honorary President of the Society. She is a retired secondary school English Department Head. On her maternal grandmother's side, she is descended from two Temple families, and from the Loyalist Travis family of New Brunswick and Queensville, Ontario. |
Sat., Feb. 3, 2007 at noon |
Loyalist Clothing Fashion during 1776-1790, with Diane Reid UE and Sarah Walker Diane Reid (member of the Toronto Branch of the UEL) and Sarah Walker, owners of Fashion History Productions, began an association in February 1996. Both of them had a collection of a small number of historical costumes that they were eager to show on live models, to dynamically demonstrate women's clothing in the past. In subsequent years they undertook to expand their collections of costumes to demonstrate clothing fashions throughout more historical periods to include accessories and undergarments, footwear, wigs and millinery and to include children's and men's wear. Sarah is a costume maker and Diane does the research and history of the appropriate period. Their collaboration has produced themes that will specifically fit with a theme chosen by the organization's programme. Like the one this afternoon. What constitutes Loyalist dress? It is not the story of English or French Fashion, or even of high fashion. Rather it is the story of the adoption and adaptation of clothing styles in the years 1776-1790 before and just after the revolutionary war. How the revolutionary war affected what was worn. With reproductions of garments during that period, get a hands on experience of the kinds of garments worn by men, women and children. Also, a demonstration of dressing a lady, will be part of the program. |
Tues., Jan. 9, 2007 |
“Tripping to the Mohawk Valley in 2006”, by Doug Grant U.E. A goodly portion of the Loyalists originated in the City and Province of New York. George Anderson and Ed Kipp of the Sir Guy Carleton Branch in Ottawa have organized some nine trips, two for research and seven for bus loads of Loyalist descendants and historians to visit various key Revolutionary War sites along the Mohawk Valley, the Hudson Valley, Lake Champlain and their environs. The latest trip to the Mohawk was held Oct 1-4, 2006. Doug will show a collection of pictures taken during the trip, along with supplementary images, and commentary. Doug Grant U.E. is a long-term member of the Gov. Simcoe Branch and has served many years on the Executive. He has two proven Loyalist ancestors and probably several more just needing research. He and spouse Nancy, who is also of Loyalist descent, have attended several bus trips organized by George and Ed to the areas in the Lake Champlain, Mohawk valley and Hudson Valley areas and both have ancestors who, as loyalists, were forced from that area. They both traveled much of Canada between 2004 and 2006 visiting branches of the Association and making many good friends when Doug was President of UELAC. |
Wed., Dec. 6, 2006 |
"Early Photography And Genealogy" by Peter Johnson UE A survey of the 19th Century Photographic formats you are most likely to find as you sift through old shoe boxes full of early family photos. Samples of the various types will be available for viewing, and please bring some of your own early photos for comment. From an interest in historical photography as a student, then teacher, Peter wrote several articles/columns on photography for the Loyalist Gazette during his several years as editor leading up to 2004. Peter Johnson U.E. has at least 7 Loyalist ancestors, and 2 or 3 Rebels, just for variety. He has been a reenactor since 1977 with the King's Royal Yorkers, serving as a musketman, but more often these days a fifer. He has been also involved in 1812 reenactment for the last five years. A graduate of the University of Toronto, Hons. Fine Art & English, and MA in English, Peter recently retired from 30 years of teaching for the Toronto Board of Education. He is married to Angela who has also served the UELAC in various ways, and they have 4 kids, mostly adults now. Peter and Angela live on a piece of the 1801 family farm north of Trenton . |
Sat., Nov. 4, 2006 |
"Potluck Luncheon, and "Tea with Mrs. Simcoe," by Marilyn Branch, Sue Hines and Cathy Thompson Bring a pot (don't forget to put some food in it) and share with others as we enjoy a potluck lunch. The room opens at 12:45, lunch at 1:15. Of course lunch is always a good precursor to tea. Mrs. Elizabeth Simcoe, wife of Governor Simcoe, will be making a special appearance. She will be taking tea and sharing with us, through her own words and with the assistance of a little 21 Century technology, music and slides depicting the Simcoe's life just before leaving England, the sea voyage, their time in Quebec and their life in the new province of Upper Canada. Cathy Thompson of Grand River Branch will be our gracious Mrs. Simcoe and Marilyn Branch, also of Grand River Branch will provide the readings from the selections of Mrs. Simcoe's Diary. Sue Hines of Grand River, feeling somewhat like a member of Star Trek, will be beaming back and forth between the late 1700's and 2006, operating the electronic equipment that will help bring this bit of history to life. Marilyn Branch is a Past President of Grand River Branch and a former Trustee of the UELAC. Four generations of her family have Loyalist status and all are members of Grand River Branch. |
Wed., Oct. 4, 2006 |
"The Humber: Tales of a Canadian Heritage River" by Ron Fletcher In 1997 The Humber Watershed taskforce issues its report on implementing a strategy for a healthy Humber River. One of its objectives called for the identification and documentation of cultural and heritage resources. Other objectives called for the celebration of these resources. This book is such a celebration. The Humber has been the scene of many stories down through human history. Along its banks explorers made grand plans for empires and forts were built to control it. Adventurers sought their fortunes and merchant princes built chateaux on the slopes of its valleys. Heroes and villains competed here. Ron's book is a compilation of some fifty vignettes and sketches, all true. One such is “Governor Simcoe and the Toronto Carrying Place”. Ron Fletcher is a retired history teacher who has lived all of his life in the Beaches and Riverdale. He published and spoke previously to us about his book "Over the Don". Ron is President of the Riverdale Historical Society. |
Wed., May 3, 2006 |
"Simcoe and Settlement: The Military Context of the Founding of York" by Ken Purvis Ken's presentation will focus on the period following the American Revolution with the fledgling U.S. expanding into Indian territory in the Ohio valley and the implications for the defense of British North America. This would prove to be the first real test of the new Republic and would engender the formation of the U.S. Legion - an army raised specifically to conquer the "old Northwest". This horrific confrontation between the U.S. and native warriors of the so-called western tribes was a conflict in which the British were implicated, would come dangerously close to the Canada/U.S. border and ultimately would cause the establishment of Toronto. Ken Purvis, the Senior Program Officer at Historic Fort York, has worked in public history for over 20 years - first with the St. Lawrence Parks Commission at Fort Henry, then with the Toronto Historical Board, now Culture Division, City of Toronto at Historic Fort York where he fulfilled the various roles of Historical Interpreter, Site Manager and now Senior Program Officer. He has lectured on the subject of Simcoe and Settlement at York University and for Routes to Learning Canada. His main area of interest is in Military Music and he has presented lecture/performances at dozens of museums and historic sites, at the Royal Canadian Military Institute and at the University of Toronto. Last year he had the pleasure of working with Dr. Carl Benn, Chief Curator for the City of Toronto, as co-curator of the music portion of an exhibit entitled The Soldiers' Trade which included an interactive touch-screen interface allowing visitors to hear recorded examples of 19th C. military music. He was a consultant for Canadian Composer John Beckwith on the creation of the score for the operetta Taptoo and presented a paper on the history of Military Taptoos at the Monk Centre for performing Arts as part of an all day symposium on Beckwith's work. In 2003 he had the pleasure of recruiting, training and writing scores for a French Napoleonic Military Band at the behest of the U.S. Dept. of the Interior, in order to participate in the 200th anniversary of the Louisiana Purchase in New Orleans. |
Wed., Apr 5, 2006 |
Annual Potluck Our Spring potluck and auction at Montgomery Inn has been a fun activity each year for twenty years or more. It is a great opportunity to enjoy tasty food and good friends, some who can't make it out to our regular meetings. Perhaps you will win the door prize, or buy a ticket and take home one of the raffle prizes. Or buy that little item n the auction table — just the thing you always wanted. Please mark this on your calendar and reserve your tickets by calling Robert Heath at 416-249-7981. We are limited to about 56 people so don't wait. Tickets are only $5.00, plus a food dish — when you speak with Robert, he will want to know if you are bringing a main course dish, salad or dessert. Don't delay, seating is limited! |
Wed., Mar 1, 2006 |
"Downtown Ontario: Unusual Main Streets to Explore" by Ron Brown Many of Ontario's cities and towns were settled by truly innovative and sometimes wealthy and eccentric pioneers. They wanted their homes and communities to stand out and be noticed. And outstanding they are, whether it is because of the stunning architecture, the strange location or the intriguing story behind them. Some of the places thrived and grew, others eventually became little more than a main street, but all of the ones presented in this book have a fascinating story to tell. Author, geographer and town planner, Ron Brown has long had a love affair with the landscape of Canada. From the time he visited his first ghost town in 1963, he began recording and writing about Canada's vanishing historic landscapes. Ron has published many books including Ghost Towns of Ontario, The Train Doesn't Stop Here Any More, Toronto's Lost Villages, and his most recent, Downtown Ontario. Ron has spoken to us previously, once on Canada's Railway Stations and more recently on "How Cobalt Became Ontario's Most Historic Town." |
Sat., Feb 18, 2006 |
Heritage Day at Gov. Simcoe Branch Our February meeting has been moved from Feb 1 to Feb 18. Please join us slightly before 1:00 pm so we can begin with our potluck lunch at 1:00. There is a great afternoon of activities and programs for all family members. Be sure to bring friends and relatives, but do let Daryl Currie (416-469-0851) know in advance how many are attending. Bring a dish and we will start off the afternoon with a lunch after a brief welcome. During the afternoon we will have lots to do, including snackfoods with Dr. Dorothy Duncan, period music, flag and hat crafts, and Governor Simcoe's birthday cake. As a special part of the program, a guest re-enactor family from the Royal Yorkers -- Mum, Dad and two children -- will show us their clothing and gear and help transport us back into the period of our Loyalist ancestors. |
Wed., Jan 11, 2006 |
"Sir Winston Churchill" by Randy Barber This presentation on Churchill will basically cover the life and time's of Britain's greatest Englishman and I let him speak a lot using his humour, and his command of the English language. I call it "Churchill 101" as it provides the audience with quite a few little-known facts. I also try to explode some of the more common myths about him. I display a number of artifacts from my Churchilliana collection for folks to browse through before and after my talk. I always ask for questions. Randy is a member of the Gov. Simcoe Branch, and resides in Markham. His very successful business career culminated in eight years as Chair of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. Politically, Randy served two terms as Councillor of Markham, and has been involved with fund raising, political and otherwise, including the Juno Beach Centre 2000-04. He has been President International Churchill Society — Canada, director International Board, The Churchill Centre — Washington, D.C, and chair 2005 International Conference of Churchill Societies — Quebec City. Among many personal interests, Randy is a collector of Sir Winston Churchill memorabilia. |
Sat., Dec 3, 2005 |
"The State of the UELAC Dominion" by Doug Grant, UE The UELAC has made significant strides once again in the last decade. Starting with the Vision statement of the Association, and a brief review of the current finances, the focus will be on five of the measurable objectives that the UELAC pursues. In 2005, increasing membership has been important. A number of initiatives have resulted in a 5% growth. Some of this growth has resulted from the interest generated by Branch Projects, which are being tackled across the country. Other memberships have come from attention the media have paid to Loyalist projects and events. A vastly increased use of email and the web, current communications tools, have in turn generated interest in membership and Loyalists from all over North America, and beyond. Doug will provide an opinion about the impact these approaches has made, and the programs and approaches which are in place or planned for 2006. Douglas Warner Grant, UE, has proven Loyalist ancestors on both his maternal and paternal sides. A member of the Gov. Simcoe Branch since 1980, and of the executive team since 1982, Doug has held most executive positions including two stints as President. He joined the UELAC executive team as trustee and held several roles before being elected President in June 2004. In his role as Sr. VP and President, he has visited all but three of the 28 UELAC branches across the country. |
Wed., Nov 2 |
"From Powder Horn to Plow: The Influence of the Loyalists in Toronto Township" by John Warburton, UE The presentation outlines who the loyalists were, which ones came to Toronto Township (now Mississauga) and the influence that they, their children and grandchildren had on Mississauga. We will look at people such as Sir John Beverley Robinson, Thomas Merigold, Lewis Bradley, James Falconer, C.J.S. Bethune, William Claus, Frederick Starr Jarvis and a few others. We discuss first their relationship to the Revolutionary War, then their trials as they fled and finally the effect they had on early Toronto Township. This talk includes comments on Loyalist Burial Places and the Toronto Branch Project "The Home District Loyalists." John was born in Paignton, Devon, England (not far from the final resting place of John Graves Simcoe) and came to Canada in 1953. Raised and educated in Toronto and Scarborough, he is a former school teacher in Scarborough. Historical interpreter with Black Creek Pioneer Village from 1989-1996, John is a freelance historian who performs at many venues across the Province as broom maker, farmer/rope maker and phrenologist as Dr. Zonk. John has contributed to books on Loyalist history in Toronto and has been an Executive member since 1990 of Toronto Branch — UELAC. He was Central West Region Vice-President UELAC 2002-4. John's Loyalist ancestors include: John Bradshaw, Isaac DeMille, John Walden Meyers, John Fetterly, Adam Pabst. (Looking for Cooks of Osnabruck (Cornwall) and John Fitzgerald of Adolphustown.) |
Wed., Oct 5 |
"Stories From Stones" by Marion Heath Stories from Stones is about cairns. They are build to honour and remember people or events. Such structures provide queries -- why were they built, are they still significant....? Neolithic and Bronze Age peoples made them. When the Israelites crossed the Jordan into the Promised Land, each tribe carried a stone from the river to pile on the shore as a significant reminder for their children. Our Ontario Ancestors also build them. Each chapter of this book tells the story with a photograph or two of one of these remarkable but little-known stone records of Ontario history. Marion Heath holds a BA in English from McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, a Master of Religious Education from Union Seminary, New York City; and a teacher's certificated from Toronto, where she taught for some years. Her works include The Competition in Russia, a story for Alberta Grade 9 studies, and articles on cairns and other monuments. |
Wed., May 4 |
"Over the Don" by Ron Fletcher Today the area of Toronto on the east side of the lower Don River is close to the centre of our city. In the early years of York, it was on the outskirts of town with forests and then farms beside the Kingston Road. Ron Fletcher, a lifelong resident of this general part of Toronto, has written a book of vignettes, stories, incidents which occurred along the lower Don on or near the Queen St. Bridge. Ron will tell us about the book and some of the incidents from days before York, through Simcoe and Scadding, whose farm was nearby, to the mid-twentieth century. Mr. Fletcher is a retired history teacher who has lived all of his life in the Beaches and Riverdale. He published this book "Over the Don" and is now working on a similar one about the Humber. |
Wed., April 6 |
Our potluck dinner, a long-time tradition at Montgomery Inn, gives time to meet and discuss while enjoying a wonderful meal. A door prize, a raffle, and an auction fill out this event. Entrance is by ticket - $5.00 per person - an item for the auction and contribution of a dish for dinner. Casual dress. Free parking on-site at the southeast corner of Islington and Dundas in Etobicoke. This dinner has been known to sell out, so order your tickets early. |
Wed., March 2 |
"Rev. John Stuart" by Rev. Harold Shepherd John Stuart was born 1740/1 in Pennsylvania where he was raised. He earned a B.A. from U. of Pennsylvania in 1763, worked as a schoolmaster in Lancaster County before taking his M.A. in 1770. His intellectual and social skills matched his height which exceeded six feet. In 1770, following a trip to England for his ordination, he was posted to Fort Hunter, where he ministered to the Indians and Europeans. He met Joseph Brant, Thayendanegea, and the two collaborated in the translation of St. Mark's gospel into Mohawk. Stuart supervised a school at Johnstown and officiated at the burial of friend and protector Sir Wm. Johnson. Loyal to the King, Stuart eventually escaped, through an exchange, to Montreal in 1781 where he lived and worked for four years, and among other responsibilities was chaplain to the KRRNY. In 1784 he traveled to Niagara, and administered to loyalist settlers along the way. In 1785, Stuart moved to Cataraqui (Kingston) where he lived until his death in 1811. In 1792 after the Legislative Council was sworn in at St. George's Church, Kingston, Simcoe was appointed Chaplain of the Council. While busy with the ministerial duties, Stuart was very involved with his family of eight children. John Strachan called John Stuart the Father of the Episcopal Church in Upper Canada. His life story is quite fascinating. Rev. Shepherd is Rector of St. David's Anglican Church, where we hold our monthly meetings. He hosted our Loyalist Day Church Service in 2003. Born in Toronto, Harold's family moved to Montreal when he was in early grade school. He graduated there from McGill, and entered Osgoode Law School in Toronto. Ordained a Deacon in 1981 and a Priest in the Diocese of Montreal in 1982, Harold returned for more education at Queen's University in 1989 and while there was Honorary Assistant to St. George's Cathedral until 1992. He practiced law in Oakville, and returned to Toronto in 1994 as Rector at St. David's. He is also employed by the Federal Government in the Dept. of Citizenship and Immigration Canada, determining applications for refugee protection to be presented to the Minister. Rev. Shepherd has participated in many of our Branch events. |
Wed., February 2 |
"Some Deep History - Davenport Rd and old Yorkville" by Jane Beecroft Before the first European settlements as York by Simcoe in 1793 and by the French as Fort Rouille from the 1750's, the First Nations peoples had used this area. A Iroquois Village, Teiaigon, by the Humber, connected to an old trail which became Davenport Road. One can only wonder if Simcoe himself walked or rode parts of this road. This "oldest road in the region" is the base for this presentation. As traffic increased, a tolling system evolved. The Tollkeepers Cottage, an historic landmark, has been returned to the corner of Davenport and Bathurst, near its original location. The cottage is two thirds restored, under the auspices of the Community History Project. Our speaker will describe the tolling system and the restoration status and plans for the cottage. A little further east, the second oldest community in this region, Yorkville, was founded in 1808. In 1853 it was incorporated as a municipality and annexed to Toronto in 1883. Jane has been involved with many aspects of Yorkville for years and will discuss some of its history and progress. President of the Community History Project (CHP), and founder of the CHP and Society of Heritage Associates, Jane received the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship in 2001, which noted that she has devoted nearly 25 years to issues of heritage building, natural heritage and to Ontario's First Nations' people. As a director of the Toronto Historical Association, Jane has spearheaded the study of 250 lost historical sites in Toronto. Through the CHP, she conducts numerous historical walking tours through Yorkville and South Rosedale. Jane has been a great force in the effort to preserve the Bloor-Yorkville neighbourhood and has documented much of its history. Her great love of history led to a project to provide books to native libraries in Ontario. Jane has also received the City of Toronto Award of Merit. She has led the charge to save and restore the Tollkeepers cottage. This full-time involvement with heritage follows several careers in the arts fields. |
Wed., January 12 |
"First Novelist rallies Loyalism in Canada" by Dr. David Beasley Major John Richardson was born in Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) in 1796, went to school in British-run Detroit and Amherstburg until the War of 1812 claimed him as a boy soldier. Later he wrote the first version of the War from a Canadian viewpoint. As an officer in the West Indies and a half-pay officer in England and the Continent he experienced much which he used in his fiction. After fighting in the Spanish Carlist War, he returned to Canada as correspondent for the London Times, supported Lord Durham and the quest for Responsible Government, edited several newspapers, continued to publish novels and non-fiction, and migrated after the Rebellion Losses Bill to New York City to publish several novels. His novel Wacousta, about Pontiac's siege of Fort Detroit in 1763, published in England in 1832, was reissued over twenty times. He died as a result of penury in 1852. While in Canada he rebuilt the spirit of loyalism politically through his journalism and began the formation of what became the Conservative Party. His Eight Years in Canada is a valuable record of the political turmoil in Canada in the 1840s. Dr. David Beasley was born and raised in Hamilton, Ontario. After graduating from McMaster University, he worked, traveled, studied and wrote in Europe for five years. This included a year reading French literature at the Sorbonne in Paris, two years of teaching in Vienna and traveling in a remote region of Turkey by donkey. He came to New York City and married a lady who worked at the United Nations. He obtained his MLS from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, worked as a research librarian in the New York Public Research Libraries, organized and was president of AFSCME Local 1930, obtained his PhD in political-economics and continued to write. In 1992 he returned to Canada and has been living in Simcoe where he is writing and publishing. The Canadian Don Quixote; the life and works of Major John Richardson, Canada's first novelist was his first book publication. Out of print for many years, he revised it and published it recently. He has also published recently four of Richardson's novels that have not been seen by Canadians. |
Wed., December 1 |
"Loyalists, Outreach and You" by Fred H. Hayward UE This presentation will include an overview of the work of UELAC Education/Outreach Committee, blended with ideas for both personal and Branch outreach and served up with visuals, artifacts and dramatization. Fred's impersonation of his Irish Palatine ancestor, Philip Embury, considered to be the founder of the Methodist Church in the United States, should be both entertaining and informative. Since he joined the Hamilton Branch UELAC in 1998, Fred H. Hayward UE has filled his "retirement" years with a variety of roles within the organization. In Hamilton, he has served as chairman of both the Education Committee and the Archives Committee and presently is the immediate Past President of the Branch. At the Dominion level, he has served as the Chairman of the Education/Outreach Committee since 2000 and was recently elected as Regional Vice President of the Central West Region UELAC. He also has found time to address a number of heritage groups and UELAC Branches. With classroom experience at both the elementary and secondary levels, Fred has degrees from both McMaster and University of Toronto. Fred feels that his strong interest in Gardening, the Arts, Canadian History and his extended Family has had a great influence in his approach to the needs of our Association. |
Wed., November 3 |
"Preparing for Christmas in Early Ontario" by Dorothy Duncan Dorothy's presentation will focus on food, but will also deal with gifts and decorations for house and table. The food portion will review ingredients and recipes our ancestors might have used in the early nineteenth century. Dorothy will bring some samples which she will have made from the recipes for us to enjoy. She recently authoured a book, "Nothing More Comforting: Canada's Heritage Food" (published by Dundurn Press, hardcover, 25 pages). It is mostly a history book, but does contain some recipes. Dorothy will have copies of the book for sale at the meeting at a special price of $25. She will also bring a basket of items made from the book's recipes; buying a book will earn you a ticket for the raffle to win the basket. Dorothy Duncan has addressed our branch on several occasions and often provided us with advice as well. She has always been involved with history in the form of museums, restorations and especially interpretation of the past. She has been curator of Black Creek Pioneer Village, and latterly Executive Director of OHS. Retired since Jan. of 2002, she is involved with Cuisine Canada and the Jane Austen Society. Dorothy has received the Order of Ontario, and an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from University of Waterloo. She is a Fellow of the Canadian Museum Association, and most recently was named Woman of the Year by the Toronto Women's Culinary Network. |
Wed., October 6 |
"Law in Early Ontario" by David Scott David spoke to us this past January about the national, political and legal environment in Canada through the eighteenth century, and an introduction to the early nineteenth century. This presentation will follow from that one. Upper Canada was formed by an Act of the British Parliament in 1791. John Graves Simcoe was appointed the first Lieutenant Governor. One of the institutions implemented was the legal system, and our speaker will address the evolution from 1791 through 1900, with a focus on the period of Upper Canada. During this time the organization of the courts changed as the population grew dramatically. Osgoode Hall was formed and likewise changed. Take a look with us at life behind the scenes as we peek at the diaries of an early Chief Justice, Robert Harrison. At the same time that the system evolved, the public and general view of criminality has also changed. A fascinating part of our heritage that we don't often think about. David was born in Beamsville, but most of his public schooling was in Ottawa. He attended Macdonald College, McGill University where he earned a degree in Science. He worked for the Defense Research Board in Kingston, Glaxo Smith Klein in Montreal and a legal firm in Ottawa before entering Law School at Osgoode Hall in 1955. He was called to the Bar in 1959, and after several years working for various firms, joined the Federal Dept. Of Justice in 1968 in Toronto. David was appointed to the Bench in 1979. In 1998 he retired from full time judgeship, but then continued part time until his complete retirement in 2002. |