French Royalist Settlement in Upper Canada: Rise and Decline Post-1789

In 1798, approximately 40 French Royalists, led by Count Puisaye, attempted to establish a settlement in Upper Canada, named Windham, after their sponsor, War Minister Windham. This initiative followed the turmoil of the French Revolution, which had driven many émigrés to seek refuge abroad. The colonists, primarily aristocratic army officers, faced significant challenges due to their unfamiliarity with the harsh realities of frontier life, leading to a lack of labor and support. Robert Hamilton, a member of the Legislative Council, predicted the failure of this isolated French settlement, suggesting that the colonists would struggle to adapt and integrate with the existing settlers. His concerns were validated as the noble-born officers found it difficult to manage the arduous work required for survival in the wilderness. Many laborers abandoned their posts, further undermining the colony's viability. By 1806, the Windham colony had dwindled significantly, with only a small number of settlers remaining. The harsh conditions and lack of resources ultimately led to the abandonment of the township. Count Puisaye, who had initially been optimistic about the venture, expressed growing disillusionment with the colonial project. Today, remnants of the Windham settlement can be traced to the northern part of the original colony, which is now home to the Summit Golf & Country Club. The legacy of Count Puisaye and his settlement efforts is commemorated by historical markers and drawings that capture this brief yet significant episode in Canadian history.