Remembering the War of 1812

Remembering the War of 18 12. . Conflict came to Canada in June of 18 12 when the United States of America declared war on Great Britain and its North American colonies. Civilians in Upper Canada (Ontario) felt the brunt of the war, and many able-bodied men volunteered to serve with the militia., Other citizens found themselves caught up in the conflict simply from living near the Niagara frontier. The war challenged the very fabric of society and tested the loyalties and courage of the civilian population. Many residents were American by birth and had strong family ties to the United States. The Militia Act of 1808 laid the foundation for civilian involvement during the War of 18 12. Volunteer militiamen from historic Mississauga (then known as Toronto Township) were involved in a variety of capacities during the war. Some served in support-oriented duties within the Embodied Militia, and others saw direct military action as members of the First and Second Flank Companies of the 2nd Regiment of the York Militia (2nd York)., Some militia volunteers participated in the transport of supplies, garrison duty, and road maintenance, amongst other duties, while others served in the Volunteer Battalion of Incorporated Militia of Upper Canada, the Royal Artillery Drivers (Car Brigade), and the Commissariat (Wagon Department). When militia volunteers were called for service, they were often away from home for weeks or months at a time, causing a great deal of uncertainty for those who remained behind., Throughout their dedicated service, militiamen from this community were present and participated in several battles during the war, including engagements at Fort Detroit, Queenston Heights, Fort George, Fort York, St. David's, Stoney Creek, Chippawa, Lundy's Lane, and Fort Erie, among others. Some were wounded, some captured, some deserted, and a few never returned home., More than 50 individuals from historic Mississauga served with the militia during the war. Among them was Lewis Bradley (c1771-1843), after whom the Bradley Museum is named, who served as an adjutant with the 2nd York. Others include his father-in-law, Captain Thomas Merigold Sr. (1761-1826), as well as Thomas' sons, Thomas Jr., Daniel and Amos., Many of their neighbours also served, including members of the Gable, Greeniaus, Hemphill, Hendershott, Jarvis, Marlatt, Monger, Oliphant and Pollard families. Captain William Thompson (1786-1860) also lived nearby and was present at several battles during the war. Warren Clarkson, after whom Clarkson was named, also served in the militia during the war. Many of those who served in the war are buried within the City of Mississauga today., Several Indigenous warriors from the Mississaugas of the Credit River also found themselves supporting the British war effort. Among them were Ajetans (James Ajetance), Wageezhegome (John Cameron), Manoonooding (James Chechok), Pemiskishigon (George Henry), Negahnub (Lawrence Herkimer), Minowargewon (William Herkimer), Nawahjegezhegwaby (Joseph Sawyer), Pahoombwawindung (Thomas Smith), Tobecoo (John Tobeco) and Kish-ki-wabik (White John), likely amongst others., We remember their brave service.