Born in Cotterstock, Northamptonshire, Simcoe entered the army in 1770, and during the American Revolution commanded the 1st American Regiment (Queen's Rangers). In 1791 he was appointed the first Lieutenant-Governor of the newly formed Province of Upper Canada. During his energetic administration, he improved communications, encouraged immigration and founded York (Toronto). In 1796 he returned to Wolford, his estate in Devonshire, England, but during 1797 served as Governor and military commander in British-occupied St. Domingo (Haiti). He commanded the Western Military District, 1801-06, when England was threatened with French invasion. Appointed Commander-in-Chief of India in 1806, Simcoe died before taking up that post.

Location

In Wolford Chapel, Honiton, Devonshire, England and at Cathedral Close near St. Peter's Cathedral, Devonshire, England

Themes

• Black heritage
• Communities
• People
• Politics and law
• Transportation systems and communications
• War and conflict