The Black Canadian Experience in Ontario 1834-1914: Flight, Freedom, Foundation

The Archives of Ontario is pleased to introduce this exhibit: a joint project of the Archives of Ontario and the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS). A companion travelling exhibit will circulate to cultural, heritage and educational sites throughout Ontario.

The text has been authored by guest curator Rosemary Sadlier, President of the OBHS. Technical and administrative support have been provided by the Archives of Ontario and OBHS staff and volunteers.

This partnership has allowed us to present the dramatic story of a community which has played a significant role in Ontario's history and remains a vital force in Ontario society today.

Black Canadians were in Canada from the earliest times, initially as free people, then as slaves. With the French fur-traders, they helped found and build many of the early settlements. They had helped to defend British controlled Canada from the Americans and were rewarded with land to develop.

Click to see a larger image (315K)
Map entitled: "Southwestern Counties of Canada West -
showing the principal stations of the free colored population," 1855
Reference Code: Pamphlet no. 41
Archives of Ontario

However, the largest early migration of people of African origin into Canada was sparked by changes in British law making all enslaved people free, and the overwhelming response which ensued was the Underground Railroad. This exhibit celebrates that migration and explores Black settlement in what is now Ontario.

And they Went to Canada
Freedom Under the Lion's Paw
Settlement and Community
Community of Interest

Next: And they Went to Canada

Feedback

Please let us know what you thought of this exhibit. We also welcome any suggestions for ways it can be improved so please take a few moments to send us your comments by filling in the form below.

Personal information provided to the Archives through this request will be used only to respond to requests. This information is collected under the authority of the Archives and Recordkeeping Act, 2006, S.O. 2006, chapter 34, Schedule A.
Questions about the collection of this information should be directed to: Team Leader, Strategic Business Solutions, Archives of Ontario, 77 Grenville St. Toronto, ON, M5S 1B3, 416-327-1527.