New Book Explores Legacy of Peter Robinson Bicentennial

By Scott Arnold

A year of commemoration, reflection and renewed understanding of local history is being captured in a new book set to launch next month in Peterborough.

peter robinson boat landing was reenacted on little lake in 1975 (photo courtesy of nine ships 1825)

Nine Ships 1825 will officially launch Bicentennial Reflections on July 6 at 10 am at the Trent Valley Archives on Carnegie Avenue.

The book was inspired by the Peter Robinson Bicentennial Commemoration in 2025 and documents not only the many events held throughout the year, but also the conversations and learning that emerged as community members explored their shared history.

Editor Elwood Jones said a key feature of the publication is the inclusion of reflections from community partners involved in the bicentennial. Their personal accounts detail how their understanding of local history evolved during the commemorative year.

The book examines the Peter Robinson emigration of 1825, a British-backed settlement initiative that brought 2,024 Irish immigrants from 307 families to what is now the Peterborough area. The project was designed to test whether the British government could successfully finance and support large-scale emigration from Ireland to Upper Canada.

Along with historical content, Bicentennial Reflections includes 80 photographs from bicentennial events held in both Canada and Ireland, as well as remarks from dignitaries who participated in the commemorations.

Nine Ships 1825 Chair Brendan Moher described the publication as a team effort and said it will serve as part of the organization's lasting legacy to the community and future generations.

Following the launch, the book will be available through the Trent Valley Archives and online.

The public is invited to attend the free launch event at the Trent Valley Archives, located at 567 Carnegie Ave., on Monday, July 6 at 10 am.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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