1812: smugglers and spies

From the Archives – Mary Ducharme  (December 2011)

We are but a stone’s throw away from the international border, and in the era of 1812, it was more or less an imaginary line and loyalties were confused. Neighbouring communities were linked in complex ways and the war was not popular. However, opportunities for profit were very popular: ten-gallon kegs of whiskey were smuggled south – and American beef was smuggled north. The Americans were happy and the British army was fed.

Settlers here were also part of a system of spies engaged by the British. In October of 1813, the Manning brothers Jacob and David were captives of the American General Hampton. The Mannings supplied the British with reports of American troop movements, and these backwoodsmen knew the territory better than Hampton. The General attempted to persuade David to take his black charger, gallop to Montreal, and bring him back an estimate of British defences there. David refused, despite an offer of a reward. The furious Hampton threatened them with military prison and put a guard on them in a filthy stable. The guard, an old friend and neighbour, allowed them to escape.

Two men of Hemmingford joined in the regular British Army, one of them sharpshooter John Scriver who was engaged in the action at Ile aux Noix that captured two American ships, the Eagle and the Growler. After the war, John built the fine stone house on Frontier Street with his military pay,

Plans are scaling up on both sides of the border to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812. Historical societies are linking together to promote numerous events in our region that will draw tourists and provide educational experience for young and old. Heritage Canada has announced that funds for 1812 related projects are available and applications should be made soon.

For information concerning funding applications contact: info@1812,gc.ca or call 1-866-997-3123.

Postal address:
Fonds de commémoration de la guerre de 1812 a/s du Secrétariat Fédéral pour le Bicentenaire de la Guerre de 1812 Ministère du Patrimoine Canadien 25, rue Eddy, 11e étage Arrêt postal 25-11-R Gatineau (Québec) K1A 0M5