Jane Buttery

An Unlikely Friendship: Amherstburg 1846 Jane Buttery

Can you guess what happens in a small town in 1846 when a Black schoolboy Josh befriends a poor Irish immigrant, Seamus? It is not surprising when the locals don't approve. It was in fact a time of growing prejudice and led to the Separate Schools Act of 1850. Josh, who is a dedicated student, suffers bullying by the others who don't want him at their inter-racial school. The school boys even gang up on Seamus when he sticks up for Josh. But throughout the experiences the two boys become strong friends; they discover a common love of music and, towards the end of the story, they have quite a journey together. The author seeks to bring you a slice of life in Upper Canada, relating it to real facts about the town as it becomes an important small port and a refuge for those fleeing from slavery or from starvation in Ireland.