By Sydney Alexandra, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
On June 1, 2025, the United Empire Loyalists’ Association of Canada (UELAC) unveiled a commemorative plaque at the Mount Vernon Pioneer Cemetery in memory of Clement Lucas, Jr., a United Empire Loyalist, first-generation refugee, and, later, a major in the War of 1812. This war, fought by Canada alongside Britain, was an effort to defend the land against invasion by the United States.
“United Empire Loyalist” is an honorific title that was bestowed on American colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown during and after the American Revolutionary War. When the revolution ended with American independence, many Loyalists emigrated to British territories, especially to what is now Canada, after facing hostility, property confiscation, and violence in the newly formed United States. Descendants of United Empire Loyalists may use the post-nominal letters “UE” after their names.
“We are here to unveil a plaque to draw attention to the United Empire Loyalists who, after their challenges, arrived here to begin their lives in the Hamilton area. The United Empire Loyalists were the first European pioneers of Ontario and many parts of eastern Canada. They were also Canada’s first group of refugees,” said Doug Coppins, a UELAC member.
The United Empire Loyalists’ Association of Canada is a history-rich organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of the Loyalists and their vital contributions to Canada’s development. This event is one of many initiatives aimed at uncovering, honouring, and sharing the stories of Loyalist ancestors across the country. Members conduct in-depth genealogical research and commemorate their forebears by bringing their histories into public awareness.
“We’re trying to get the word out, so we research cemeteries to see if there’s anyone buried who participated in the American Revolutionary War from 1775 to 1783,” said past UELAC President Pat Blackburn.
In attendance at the unveiling were descendants of Clement Lucas, Jr., Ward 5 Councillor Paul Sharman, and Esther Gibbs, a City of Burlington policy and community support specialist, who spoke on behalf of Mayor Marianne Meed Ward.
“The work of the UELAC is an integral part of our storytelling. Their efforts to preserve the history of our community ensure we understand where we came from and how we continue to grow,” said Gibbs, reading from a message by Meed Ward.
Sharman also addressed the gathering: “It means so much that we had King Charles visit just a week ago to help us reflect on loyalty and the value of our governance model. We’ve seen similar challenges today, and we have the opportunity to be a place where people are welcomed and can be part of this great Canadian country.”
The event began with a brief biography of Clement Lucas, Jr., and concluded with the singing of Canada’s national anthem; Mount Vernon Pioneer Cemetery is also known as Appleby Pioneer Cemetery, and is located on Appleby Line, just north of Harvester Rd.
To learn more about the United Empire Loyalists’ Association of Canada and their efforts to preserve local history, or to get involved in future events and heritage projects, visit UELAC’s website.
