King, Reverend William National Historic Person
South Buxton, Ontario
Portrait of Reverend William King
(© Library and Archives Canada | Bibliothèque et Archives Canada / PA-)
Address :
St. Andrew's United Church, South Buxton, Ontario
Recognition Statute:
Historic Sites and Monuments Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. H-4)
Designation Date:
2005-08-03
Life Date:
1812 to 1895
Other Name(s):
-
King, Reverend William
(Designation Name)
Research Report Number:
2004-002, 2003-052, 2003-018
Importance:
His efforts brought him international acclaim and focused attention on the Abolition Movement in British North America
Plaque(s)
Existing plaque: St. Andrew's United Church, South Buxton, Ontario
As an abolitionist who had owned slaves in the United States, Reverend William King made a unique contribution to the anti-slavery movement in British North America. His religious beliefs and humanitarian ideals inspired King in 1849 to found the Elgin Settlement, which grew to be the most successful planned community for African American refugees in Canada. A tireless leader, he worked to break down racial barriers by building links between this settlement and surrounding communities. King's work brought him both national and international acclaim, and focused attention on the fight to end slavery.