What Makes Amherstburg Great: Truth and Reconciliation Weekend
- September 23, 2026
Guest Content Creator: River Bookshop
Today Amherstburg is one of Ontario’s great small towns, but greatness doesn’t happen on its own. Nature, history, and human actions always play a part. Amherstburg’s location right beside the Detroit River originally made it an important place and adds to its beauty to this day. From the War of 1812, to Freedom seekers escaping slavery in the United States, and Rum Running – history has left its mark! But so have the creativity, hard work, and enthusiasm of its residents.
During 2026 we are going to shine a light on what we think makes Amherstburg great. Our hope is that this new series helps you get to know the town better, support its many businesses and attractions, and become a strong, positive champion of the town. Look for our first story in our next Buzz.
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FIRST PEOPLES With their first contact with European newcomers in the 16th Century, the economic, political, and social relationships started to radically deteriorate for the First Peoples of Canada. Despite the many unkept promises, Indigenous warriors supported English and Canadian forces in the War of 1812. Casualty numbers for the Indigenous peoples were catastrophic. Without their involvement, it is highly likely Canada would have lost the War and today we might be part of the United States.
In 1876, Canada’s Indian Act dramatically constrained the lives and opportunities for Indigenous People. For more info we encourage you to read Bob Joseph’s excellent book 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act. What you will learn should shock you. For instance, the last residential school did not close until 1997!
Between 2008 to 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada documented the history and lasting impacts of the Indian residential school system. Growing out of this report, there were 94 calls to action, recommendations covering child welfare, education, language, culture, and justice. Today, September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. In Amherstburg, the event will be recognized on September 26th with cultural presentations, family activities, and community sharing. These events will start at 12 noon on Saturday at the gazebo in King’s Navy Yard Park.
As part of the weekend, we are pleased to announce First Nations author Maurice Switzer, who will be presenting his book Sons of Tecumseh at 2PM on Saturday. Come to Art Alley near the Tecumseh murals by Indigenous artist Naomi Peters, where Switzer, Peters, and Chief of Caldwell First Nation Nikki van Oirschot will participate in a Truth and Reconciliation panel discussion.