Many Loyalists' properties and belongings were confiscated at the end of the American Revolutionary War. They travelled with little but the clothes on their backs and some food supplies. The government provided basic equipment and supplies to assist them through their first winter. It assured them that three years’ worth of provisions would be distributed to sustain them.
The Hungry Summer Threat of Starvation
The situation became much more desperate during 1788, known as The Hungry Summer. A severe winter was followed by late frosts that ruined or severely reduced crops. Then a period of drought led to threat of starvation. More people arrived empty handed, and government provisions did not arrive.
Indian cabbage, ground nuts, tree buds were eagerly devoured. Some people used their remaining powder and shot when game was available, and caught fish that were not plentiful during that period. They dug for roots or anything that would sustain them until next harvest. Beef bones were repeatedly boiled, and farms were offered for a few pounds of flour.
Deacon Obediah Reed Family
"Deacon Obediah Reed, who resided in the Township of Augusta, found that he must obtain supplies from a distance, and, for that purpose, started on a journey, by boat, to the western portion of the Province, where he had friends. He left behind him a wife and two small children, with provisions for two weeks.
"Owing to an unforseen delay, he was not able to reach home until the ninth day after the provisions were exhausted. The patient wife, with her babes, portioned out the supply so as to make it last as long as possible; but, alas! the night came when the last crust was exhausted, and starvation stared the family in the face. After offering up a fervent prayer for succor, she retired.
"In the morning, what was her surprise, to find that the cat had caught a fat rabbit during the night, and was waiting at the door of the log cabin, when the hungry and anxious mother arose. For eight nights in succession, the feline provider was equally successful, having a rabbit each morning with which to supply the larder. On the ninth day, her husband returned, bringing with him a supply of provisions. Strange to relate, from that time, the cat was never known to catch a rabbit.
"Mrs. Reed frequently related the circumstance; and, it is needless to say, that the pious lady was, during the remainder of her life, a firm believer in 'special Providence'..."
Reference:
Leavitt, Thaddeus William Henry.
History of Leeds and Grenville, Ontario, from 1749 to 1879
Brockville, Ontario: Recorder Press, 1879
