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REF-04 - Mohawk Guide
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Loyalist refugees travelled north to Canada, usually along two routes. New York loyalists
typically followed an overland route through Native American territory to Lake Ontario. As most
of the route was along forest trails, Indian guides were essential.
Unfortunately for many of the refugees, this included passage through territory held by the
Oneidas, who were allies of the Americans. Continental and militia detachments that actively
patrolled the region had also to be avoided.
Some loyalists might be lucky enough to make the trip in thirteen days, but most took much
longer. An expedition of women and children that had to move slowly, would probably miss its
boat connections, and with bad weather could take from two to three months to reach the
Quebec province.
The King’s Royal Regiment of New York, or Johnson’s Royal Regiment of New York, was formed by
exiled Loyalist leader, Sir John Johnson, from American refugees fleeing persecution.
The regiment served with distinction throughout the war, launching raids and relief missions into the
Mohawk Valley of New York.
Each year the regiment sent parties on raids into the Mohawk and neighbouring valleys for the purposes
of rescuing and escorting beleaguered Loyalists, and interfering with the ability of the Continental Army
forces to use the region’s crops as a source of food for Washington’s army.
The British government controlling Canada was ill prepared for the arrival of thousands of men,
women and children, who Governor Frederick Haldimand fittingly described as “loyalsits in great
distress”.
Incoming loyalists were questioned to determine what trade or profession they possessed and
then were dispatched to specific locations to seek employment.
Others were assigned to refugee camps, where they were expected to work in exchange for aid.
The efforts of the British government to provide asylum for the loyalists were often in vain, and
as the years progressed, existing difficulties were compounded with an ever greater influx of
refugees.
Brand: John Jenkins
