McCormick collection [textual records]
Collection number
VMM88
Date(s)
1798-1904
Physical description
19 p. of textual records.
Administrative history / Biographical sketch
The Reverend McCormick had four sons. Three of his sons emigrated to Australia and New Zealand. His third son, Shephard McCormick, was a mining engineer (gold) who traveled extensively in Africa, South America, Spain, Mexico, and Portugal.
Captain Shephard McCormick, R.N., was born in Ireland in 1793. He was an early immigrant to Canada and joined the Royal Navy and served his country in fourteen engagements. He commanded the St. George and the Agincourt. When he retired, he settled in a Canadian backwoods settlement in Upper Canada during the Governorship of Sir F. Bond-Head, from 1834-1837. His daughter Charlotte would end up marrying into the Bond-Head family. He rejoined the Navy and was responsible in 1851 for the capture and sinking of the S.S. Caroline during the Canadian rebellion in the Niagara River. This cut short the war, saving countless lives and expense. Due to war wounds and threats on his life he returned to England where he commanded the Ordinary at Plymouth from 1851-52. He died in Ireland in 1853.
Other creators of records in this collection include Sir Richard Musgrave, a notable figure and author of numerous works pertaining to the Irish Rebellion of 1798, and Sir Francis Bond-Head, Governor of Upper Canada (1835-1837).
Part of this collection is related to the 1837 rebellion in Upper Canada. The 1837 rebellion in Upper Canada was a less violent, more limited affair than the uprising earlier that year in Lower Canada. However, its leaders, including William Lyon Mackenzie, were equally serious in their demands. They wanted democratic reform and an end to the rule of a privileged oligarchy. The rebellion itself failed, but its very failure helped pave the way for moderate and careful political change in British North America. This included the union of Upper and Lower Canada into the Province of Canada and the eventual introduction of responsible government.
Source: Buckner, Phillip A. "Rebellion in Upper Canada." Last modified October 4, 2019. https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/rebellion-in-upper-canadaScope & content
Collection consists of original documents recording historic events of Upper and Lower Canada in the early part of the 19th century, including letters signed by Sir Francis Bond-Head, an original copy of an act of the Common House of Assembly of Upper Canada, and materials related to Captain Shepherd McCormick's involvement in the historic 1837 Rebellions. The records also relate to early political procedures surrounding pensions for naval officers and the values and customs of 19th century Canadian political society.
Restrictions
Access: Due to the age and fragility of the items in this collection, accessing the digital scans is preferable. Please email the Librarian & Archivist for more information.