The Peterborough Historical Society will start the New Year with a presentation by the Nine Ships 1825 Inc. Board that is coordinating the commemoration and promotion of the British sponsored migration of some 2,000 Irish to the Peterborough region in 1825 under the supervision of Peter Robinson. The various heritage agencies throughout Peterborough and area are preparing a series of special events including bus tours, a boat tour, exhibits and displays of historic material related to the original families. In addition, there will be plays, musical presentations and other events to mark this milestone in the history of our community. The Board has been working closely with the Indigenous communities to insure a respectful and thoughtful reflection on the impact of this unprecedented migration scheme on both the Irish and Indigenous peoples. There will be a panel discussion of leading experts who will explore the broad themes of migration, cultural adaptation to a new physical and cultural environment, fashioning an identity in this new environment and the legacy that is sustained by later generations. It is expected there will be numerous visitors from Ireland, the U.S. and other locations where “Robinson” descendants located. Plans are also being finalized for a special commemorative event in Ireland in September 2025 to explore the first part of this story and circumstances that produced this migration experiment. The keynote events are scheduled for 1-10 August 2025 so mark your calendars. Full details on events, dates, etc., can be found on the Board’s website : www.nineships1825.com
PHS Speaker Series to be held Tuesday January 21, 7:30 p.m. at the Peterborough Lions’ Centre on Burnham Street. Admission is free and so are the light refreshments.
