About The Loyalists
The Loyalists were North Americans living in the Thirteen Colonies who chose to support the British during the American Revolution. Following the American Revolutionary War, Lieutenant Colonel William Caldwell obtained by a treaty with the Indians 97 lots along the north shore of Lake Erie as settlement lots for Loyalists. Most of the members of the Bicentennial Branch are descendants of the numerous refugees who arrived in the Detroit to Amherstburg area from the states of Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland and New York between 1783 and 1790. Thay are dedicated to researching the history of their Loyalist ancestors and to promoting an understanding of their contribution to the early history of Canada.
The individuals who eventually came to settle in Gosfield and Colchester were bound together by a number of significant forces. Some shared military ties, such as the soldiers who served under Captain Caldwell in Butlers Rangers. Others were Hessians, soldiers from the German state of Hesse, who fought for the British in the Revolution. Another group represented the Pennsylvania Deutsch, many of whom were considered to be pro-British because they refused to bear arms. The Blacks who made their way to the area were bound by the common hardships and obstacles perpetrated upon them by the actions and prejudices of the whites.
The commitment that the New Settlement pioneers made to their new homes was an absolute one – one that would become apparent not only in the land itself, but in the social and cultural evolution of the area.
In order to qualify for full membership in the organization one must prove that one’s ancestor was indeed a Loyalist, having beared arms for King George III, the head of the British Empire at the time of the American Revolution, or provided service in some way to support the British cause. One must also prove direct blood descent from a Loyalist ancestor through various primary and secondary sources. Once this is done, decendants may use the initials “UE” after their names. This signifies “Unity of the Empire” and it is the only hereditary title in Canada.
Essex & Kent Counties Loyalists
Other Loyalists of Canada Proven by Branch Members
United Empire Loyalists of Canada – Loyalist Directory