In the evening of Tuesday November 5, 2024, Gordon Good discussed the foundational moments that shaped Upper and Lower Canada, with a special emphasis on the remarkable contributions of two pivotal figures: Samuel de Champlain and Major Samuel Holland. Gordon’s presentation was at the TTHS Palermo Schoolhouse, located east of Dundas & Bronte Rd in Oakville.
Samuel de Champlain, often hailed as the “Father of New France,” was not just an explorer; he was a visionary who laid the groundwork for what would become a vibrant and diverse region of Canada. His expeditions in the early 17th century brought new knowledge of the land and established critical relationships with Indigenous nations, all while promoting the potential for settlement and trade.
In parallel, Major Samuel Holland’s work in surveying was equally transformative. Appointed as the first Surveyor General of British North America, Holland meticulously mapped vast territories, providing invaluable insights into the geography and resources of Upper and Lower Canada. His innovative techniques and detailed surveys were instrumental in planning and organizing the settlement patterns that defined these regions.
Gordon explored how the efforts of Champlain and Holland interwove to lay the foundation for a burgeoning nation. He discussed their methods, the challenges they faced, and the lasting impact of their work on Canadian history.
Gordon Good, O.L.S. Retired, is the Chair of the Archival and Historical Committee, Association of Ontario Land Surveyors. The Association of Ontario Land Surveyors (AOLS) was established in 1892. It is a self-governing association, responsible for the licensing and governance of professional land surveyors, in accordance with the Surveyors Act.