PETERBOROUGH- Local musician Alanna Jenish played Irish tunes on her fiddle as approximately 50 people gathered on July 30th to mark the launch of the Nine Ships 1825 project, which will co-ordinate and promote the 200th anniversary in 2025 of the “Peter Robinson Emigration” of 2,024 Irish to the Peterborough area.
“Immigration is an act of bravery and resilience. Why do people do it? Hope for a better life and opportunities.” stated Irish Consul General of Toronto, Janice McGann during her remarks at the launch. Ms. McGann says she was impressed with the hard work that has gone into this project and hopes to return to the Peterborough area in the fall.
“The new website www.nineships1825.com revealed at this event is designed to share information about the Bicentennial project and everyone is encouraged to visit the site to learn about the history of this emigration, it’s significance to the Peterborough area and about the many events planned for 2025.” states Chair Brendan Moher.
Following the launch event, Ms. McGann was provided the opportunity to visit the Peterborough Museum and Archives to see the collection of the original Peter Robinson documents. That was followed by a visit to Lang Pioneer Village Museum where Ms. McGann experienced the Aabnaabin: Looking Back to Where We Come From exhibit.
The history of the Robinson Irish emigrants is intertwined with that of the Indigenous peoples of the region, particularly the Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg (Mississauga) First Nations on whose territory the Robinson emigrants settled. The Nine Ships 1825 Board of Directors was honoured that local dignitaries could attend the event, including local First Nations Chiefs. Officials say the Bicentenary of the Robinson emigration invites reflection on these complex histories, honouring the resilience of early settlers and advancing reconciliation efforts within the community.
