In 1822, the British Government established a trial emigration scheme for Irish paupers to Upper Canada. There were two waves of emigration, one in 1823 the second in 1825.

There were many families from Newmarket who took part in this ‘assisted emigration’  and you can see passenger lists and further information at this site:

http://www.geni.com/projects/Irish-Peter-Robinson-Settlers-Canada/2553

“Most of the emigrants were chosen from the area north of the Blackwater River in Cork from the estates of a few landlords though a number of Kinsellas, presumably from the southeast of Ireland, also went. Eight land owners chose 239 families with 37 other landowners picking the remaining 68 families. Emigrants were required to be peasants, and Roman Catholic although several Protestant families were chosen. No person over the age of 45 would be accepted. Each emigrant was to be given 70 acres which would be subject to a payment of an annual quit rent to the Crown, to be paid every six months at 2 pence per acre.”

We’d love to hear any stories from families who are descendents from Newmarket families who took part – if you’d like to share your story with us just email contact@athtrasna.com