The Quebec Emigrant Society

The first large influx of immigrants from post-Napoleonic War Britain during 1817-18, many of them indigent, put enormous pressure on the small community of Quebec City, the main port of disembarkation in British North America. As a result, the author points out, Quebec citizens saw the urgent need to organize a "Committee for the Relief of Destitute Emigrants" to assist with the newcomers' immediate needs and to arrange transportation for them elsewhere in Lower and Upper Canada. In 1819, the Committee became known as the Quebec Emigrant Society. The author recounts that at a time when there was little other organized help, the Society met with immigrants, provided for their wellbeing, and made it possible for them to begin a new life in their new country. The author also points out that although the Society drew its supporters mainly from Quebec City's English-speaking and Protestant community, it did include a few members from the Francophone Catholic community.

Québec Studies

Vol. 57

193-210

Spring/Summer 2014

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