Black history of Canfield subject of upcoming book

To The Haldimand Press

CANFIELD—Local historian Sylvia Weaver would like to hear from you. Do you have memories or photographs related to the history of Black settlers and their descendants in Canfield?

The small, rural hamlet of Canfield in North Cayuga lays claim to a special era in Haldimand County history. Beginning around 1837, Canfield was the destination of Black slaves escaping from horrific living and working conditions in the United States. They came into Canada via a network of safe houses and routes called the “Underground Railroad,” relentlessly pursued by bounty hunters. Many ended their journey in Canfield. They were welcomed into the community as co-workers, neighbours, and friends, and could work and raise their families in safety. They helped build a pioneer settlement into a vibrant, thriving community. In 1851, North Cayuga had 137 Black residents.