This week’s webinars at Ontario Ancestors

Three branches of Ontario Ancestors will host a free virtual presentation this week.

The one by Christine Woodcock about the Peter Robinson settlement scheme is especially timely because this year marks the 200th anniversary of the British government’s plan to alleviate poverty and unemployment in Ireland by settling Irish emigrants in Upper Canada. Canadian politician Peter Robinson administered the passage and settlement.

All of these presentations are open to members and non-members.

The following times are in Eastern time.

Tuesday, January 7, 7:30 p.m. — Durham Region Branch
Where have all the obits gone? by Gordon McBean

Some argued that there was no need for genealogical societies to record obits anymore, once online obituaries became available. After all, it’s all online now! Due to the high cost of publishing obits many people are only publishing brief notices and then using the funeral homes’ website to publish a complete obit. Funeral home sites are not permanent and newspapers are closing and their websites disappearing.

A detailed obituary will focus on the important moments that made up the life of a loved one and include short anecdotes which show readers the true character of the person who has passed away. An obituary is the final record of a person’s life: their achievements, interests, passions and milestones. Because published obituaries become part of the public record, obituaries keep the memory of those we loved alive. Who is ensuring the information will be preserved when newspapers shut down and websites disappear? Register to watch online.

Wednesday, January 8, 7:30 p.m. — Huron County Branch
Researching the McEwan Family by Anne Kay

Anne Kay is the author of The Salt Man – an historical fiction novel inspired by the true story of her great-great grandfather Peter McEwan’s life. Spanning two continents and three generations, The Salt Man is a sweeping saga that traces how Peter’s quest for adventure led to a discovery that would change the face of many Southwestern Ontario towns for decades to come. Anne will explore her research on Peter McEwan’s family – brickwalls and breakthroughs. Register to watch online.

Saturday, January 11, 10:30 a.m. — Simcoe County Branch
Removing the Rebels: Peter Robinson’s Settlement Scheme by Christine Woodcock

The South of Ireland was in dire straits at the end of the 18th century and on several occasions was on the verge of civil war. The Whiteboys developed as a secret oath-bound society among the poor. Their operations were chiefly in the counties of Waterford, Cork, Limerick, and Tipperary and were not directed against the government, but rather against local landlords. No amount of legislation seemed to tame the anger which had led to many “disturbances.” As a means of removing some of the rebels, offering them a new life and free land in Upper Canada, and hopefully settling the anger back home in Ireland, the government decide to pay for families to be resettled at the expense of the government. Peter Robinson, brother of John Beverley Robinson, was tasked with finding and settling the emigrants.

In this presentation we will look at the history and politics that led to what has become known as the Peter Robinson’s Settlement Scheme. We will also take an in-depth look at the various resources available for researching your Peter Robinson Settler ancestors. Register to watch online.

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