A remarkable piece of local history that once connected communities, supported military campaigns and shaped early settlement along the north shore of Lake Ontario is taking centre stage in Brighton this weekend.
Local historian and author Dan Buchanan is launching his fifth book, The Bateau Railway, during a book signing Thursday, July 16th at the Brighton Public Library. The book explores the little-known wooden railway built across the Quinte Portage in 1793 by entrepreneur Asa Weller, carrying bateaux and their cargo nearly a mile and a half between Weller’s Bay and the Bay of Quinte.
Buchanan says the railway became a vital transportation link and played a much bigger role than most people realize.
The book also examines the railway’s important role during the War of 1812, when troops, weapons and supplies had to move overland because British and American naval forces were contesting control of Lake Ontario.
Although Buchanan is known for uncovering overlooked chapters of regional history, he says the real story isn’t simply about transportation or engineering, it’s about the people who adapted, built communities and found opportunities along the portage.
Buchanan, whose previous books have explored subjects including the Murray Canal and the history of Brighton and area, says the Brighton Public Library launch is intentionally designed as an opportunity to meet readers, answer questions and sign books before The Bateau Railway becomes widely available through online retailers. Lighthouse Books will be on hand selling copies during the event.
The free book launch and signing takes place next Thursday at the Brighton Public Library, offering history enthusiasts an opportunity to discover one of the region’s most fascinating and largely forgotten stories.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
