Steamboat “Caroline” Account book, 1834-1836
After William Lyon Mackenzie's failed uprising in Toronto during the 1837 Rebellion, he retreated with his supporters to Navy Island in the Niagara River. He chartered the American steamer Caroline to bring supplies to the rebels. In an attempt to hinder the rebels' efforts, a group of the Upper Canada militia went to Fort Schlosser on December 29, 1837, where the Caroline was moored. A brief skirmish with the Americans ensued, during which an American citizen, Amos Durfee, was killed. The Caroline was then set on fire and cut loose, drifting down the River towards the Falls. This incident escalated tensions between the United States and Great Britain and angered American citizens.
This account book for the Caroline includes cash paid for expenses such as wood, lockage, food, a cooper, a blacksmith, the fare for the railroad, and repairs. Other pages contain accounts for individuals including William H. Merritt and Thomas Merritt. The book belonged to Duncan McFarland of Port Robinson. It is noted that the first trip to Buffalo was made on the 22nd of June, 1834. There are also copies of several letters sent by McFarland in the book.
