History of the settlement of Upper Canada (Ontario,) / with special reference to the Bay Quinté

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

54554

Title

History of the settlement of Upper Canada (Ontario,) / with special reference to the Bay Quinté

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

William Canniff's historical account chronicles the settlement of Upper Canada (Ontario), with a specific focus on Bay Quinté. Blending personal narrative with rigorous research, this volume details the region's geography, indigenous history, and the experiences of early settlers, refugees, and military figures against the backdrop of the American Revolution and War of 1812.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in 1869 by Dr. William Canniff, *History of the Settlement of Upper Canada* offers a comprehensive chronicle of Ontario's development from its colonial roots to the Confederation era. Originally commissioned as a local history for Bay Quinté, the work expanded into a broader narrative of the province's formation. Canniff meticulously documents the transition from French to British rule, highlighting the pivotal roles of governors such as Sir John Graves Simcoe and Major-General Sir Isaac Brock. The text explores the strategic importance of key locations, including the islands in the St. Lawrence River like Carleton Island and Johnson's Island, as well as the shipbuilding industries at Kingston that produced vessels like the *Saint Lawrence*. Canniff profiles numerous individuals who shaped the region, blending official history with intimate biographical sketches. He details the experiences of United Empire Loyalist refugees, such as Conrad VanDusen and Frederick Williamsburgh, recounting their harrowing escapes from American rebellion forces and their subsequent struggles to build new lives in harsh environments. Military figures like Sergeant Daniel Wright are celebrated for their service and civic contributions. The narrative also addresses the tragic human cost of early settlement, vividly describing the drowning of eighteen young people at Bay Quinté in 1819 and the profound grief it caused the community. Throughout the volume, Canniff expresses a deep patriotic sentiment, defending Canadian identity against perceived American aggression while celebrating the resilience of the settler community. He describes the region's natural beauty, from the scenic shores of Picton Bay to the fertile lakes north of Kingston, noting how these landscapes supported lumbering and agriculture. The book serves as both a local chronicle for residents of Bay Quinté and a broader history of Ontario, offering insights into social structures, religious life, and the political evolution of the Dominion. Canniff concludes with unbounded faith in the Confederation scheme, envisioning a united nation stretching from the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic, where industry and peace would overshadow the homes of Canada.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg54554.epub

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Categories

• History
• Travel