Honouring the rich heritage and lasting legacy of King’s Black community
Township of King, Ont.— King Township is celebrating Black History Month this February by highlighting the rich history and significant contributions of the Black community, with a special focus on remarkable individuals who have left lasting legacies. Throughout the month, King will highlight stories and archival images that showcase this vibrant heritage. This initiative is being led by the King Heritage and Cultural Centre—located at 2920 King Road—and the King Township Public Library.
For the month of February, the Library will be featuring Black History Month displays showcasing its collection at all branch locations. There will also be curated book lists available online at kinglibrary.ca.
Black history has a long legacy in King Township; as early as 1836 Black Canadians have called King home. Recent archival research has shown upwards of 100 individuals identified as Black around the time of the 1861 census and the effect these early Black settlers have had on the community continues to this day. They have been labourers, post masters, teachers and homemakers.
Honouring Walter Rolling and other Black settlers
The museum will profile the legacy of Walter Rolling, the first Black teacher in King Township, who dedicated 40 years of service at Kinghorn Schoolhouse. Rolling’s commitment extended beyond the classroom, as he served on various boards, including the King Public School Board. His impact on the community was profound and his dedication was honoured with a grand celebration in 1937, attended by over 2,000 people, including the Minister of Education.
Today you can still see his handwritten lessons on sections of chalkboard preserved at the King Heritage and Cultural Centre and there are a handful of his former students still living in King. Admission is $5 per person and the hours of operation are Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Unveiling the Tasca Park interpretive panel design
The design of a new interpretive panel for Tasca Park, commemorating Eliza Lewis and John Welles, will be unveiled on the King Heritage and Cultural Centre’s social media channels on Instagram and Facebook. Lewis, born in 1806 in Pennsylvania, was likely born free in a state where slavery was declining. By 1850, she lived in Cambria, Pennsylvania, with her first husband, George Lewis, and their nine children. After George's disappearance, Eliza moved to King Township by 1861, marrying John Welles. They lived modestly in a "shanty" on the 8th Concession, facing challenges but contributing to the community's history. The live installation at Tasca Park is scheduled for spring, and the community is invited to join in celebrating this significant addition.
Discovering local history
Residents are encouraged to explore the exciting history in their own backyard by reading stories from the King Heritage and Cultural Centre online archives at kingheritageandculture.ca. This is a great opportunity to connect with the past and gain a deeper understanding of the community's heritage.
Promoting volunteerism
Residents who are interested in furthering research and engagement with the rich history of the Black community in King Township are encouraged to volunteer at the King Heritage and Cultural Centre.
For more information, email heritage@king.ca.
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Steve Pellegrini
Mayor, King Township
“Black History Month is a time to honour and celebrate the remarkable contributions of the Black community in King Township. By sharing these powerful stories and legacies, we not only recognize the past but also inspire future generations. I encourage all residents to engage with the events and learn more about the rich history that has shaped our community.”
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Media Contact
Township of King
Jason Ballantyne, Communications Officer
Township of King | Phone: 905-833-5321 | Email: media@king.ca