The Lochaber Emigrants to Glengarry

Jeremy Caple is an assistant professor of history at Wilfrid Laurier
University in Waterloo.

This well-documented and richly illustrated collection of articles on
aspects of Scottish influence in Canada provides an excellent
introduction both to the experiences that prompted emigration and to
those encountered in the new country. Drawing on the work of historians
with a special interest and a number of descendants of families that
came to Canada nearly 200 years ago, Fleming’s book integrates
antiquarian interests, genealogical charts, and a variety of material on
the continuing influence of these families.

The book begins with a brief discussion of the forces that motivated
the emigration. The following chapters use a wide variety of documents
and genealogical charts to explore the intricate nature of our diversity
and to demonstrate those connections that cut across regions and
national borders. This specific Scottish influence moved westward from
Glengarry and engaged in a variety of trades, including lumber and the
fur trade; intermarriage with Native Canadians followed, as did various
positions within the Hudson’s Bay Company and later with the
government of Canada.

This rewarding book offers the general reader a wealth of information
on a topic that relates in one way or another to most Canadians. For
historians, the work provides insight and important documentary evidence
relating to the diversification of tight-knit population groups over
time.