Saga of Black Refugees who left N.S. 200 years ago shaped a Canadian trailblazer
Rhonda McEwen, a distinguished Canadian leader, received her official royal letter of appointment as an honorary captain of the Canadian navy in Halifax on June 21. This marked a significant milestone in her family history, tracing back to her ancestors’ journey in 1820 when they fled ill treatment and discrimination in Halifax for an uncertain future in Trinidad.
McEwen’s ancestors were among the refugees who boarded a schooner during the War of 1812, seeking freedom and resettlement in British territories under the promise of Sir Alexander Cochrane, the then commander of the British navy. This promise of liberty led them to Trinidad, where they became the first Black large-scale landowners in the colony.
Despite facing challenges in Nova Scotia, where they were given rocky and infertile land to settle on, the refugees persevered and built communities. However, by 1815, attitudes towards them had shifted, leading to their relocation to Trinidad as free people of color.
The majority of refugees chose to stay in Nova Scotia, forming strong bonds and creating historic Black communities. Those who ventured to Trinidad joined the American refugees known as Merikins, becoming prosperous farmers and celebrating their unique heritage.
McEwen’s personal connection to this history unfolded through her brother’s work in Trinidad, leading to the discovery of their ancestors among the 1821 migrants. This revelation shed light on their family’s naval legacy, with two cousins also serving in naval forces without prior knowledge of their ancestors’ military background.
Assuming her honorary captaincy, McEwen reflects on her family’s 200-year journey from refugee to recognition. She acknowledges the significance of her heritage as a descendant of Black Refugees and an all-Black colonial unit, emphasizing the importance of knowing and honoring one’s roots.
As McEwen embraces her role as an honorary captain, she looks towards the future with optimism, recognizing the path that has been forged by her ancestors and the potential for continued growth and success in the years to come.
For more inspiring stories about the experiences of Black Canadians, including their struggles against racism and their achievements within the community, explore “Being Black in Canada,” a CBC project celebrating the diversity and resilience of Black Canadians.
