FERGUS – Residents are invited to join a Pierpoint neighbourhood group gathering on June 24 at Peirpoint Park.
A meet-and-greet begins at 11am in the parking area found at Anderson and Lamond streets, where the Pierpoint Park flyfishing and nature reserve is found.
The parkland belonged to Richard Pierpoint, a Black man abducted in 1760 from what is now Sengal in West Africa and later sold as a slave to a British officer.
Pierpoint fought for the British Empire during the American Revolution in 1776, and against the United States in an all-Black military unit called the Coloured Corps of Upper Canada.
Now bearing his name, the parkland made up a portion of the 100 acres given to him through a veteran’s land grant.
“Come and enjoy the day to gather with your fellow neighbours and celebrate the significance and uniqueness of Pierpoint Park for our community,” stated event organizers.
After the meet-and-greet, folk artist and songwriter James Gordon will perform at 11:30am with a Grand River folk song, followed by remarks from Centre Wellington Mayor Shawn Watters.
Residents will also hear from Janie Cooper Wilson, a distant relative of Lemuel Brown, a Black man who later received the land from Pierpoint, and Peter Meyler, author of A Stolen Life: Searching for Richard Pierpoint.
Following remarks from the guests, University of Guelph student and researcher Noelle Starling will provide an interpretive nature walk through the park.
From 1 to 2pm, local flyfishing guide Ken Collins will provide demonstrations on the Grand River.
Cold beverages will be served and organizers suggest bringing a lunch and folding chairs.
