The year 2013 marks the 175th anniversary of the 1838 Upper Canadian Rebellion. Between December 1837 and December 1838, at least 13 armed incursions from United States into Canada took place.

The Western District of Chatham-Kent, Essex, and Lambton Counties experienced seven of these invasions made by members of the Patriot Army. Several of these incursions are little known even to historians, yet could have become major international incidents that would have de-stabilized peace between British North America and the United States.

On April 18, Dr. John Carter makes a presentation that will investigate these events; their consequences and aftermath. He will comment on the 105 English-speaking rebels who were transported to Van Diemen’s Land as punishment for their involvement and participation. He will describe their lives in this far away penal colony, the prisoners’ period of probation, and time of freedom before their return to Canada and the United States. The illustrated presentation is based upon Dr. Carter’s 35 years of research in Canada, the United Kingdom, United States and Australia. He is a research associate in the history and classics program at the University of Tasmania.

This is a story of great local interest that is a prelude to the celebrations for the 175th anniversary of the 1838 Upper Canadian Rebellion.

The lecture will take place on Thursday, April 18, 2021 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12 and may be purchased at the Cultural Centre Box Office, 75 William Street  North or by calling 519-354-8338 or at www.cktickets.com. The evening includes light snacks.