Richard Pierpoint. an early pioneer in this, settled here in 1822. Born in Rondu
(Senegal), Pierpoint was captured and shipped to North America around 1760. He
was bought by a British officer, then fought as a free man for Butler’s Rangers

during the American Revolution When the War of 1812 began. Pierpoint petitioned
authorities to establish an African militia unit. As a member of the “Colored Corps”
he fought at Queenston Heights and elsewhere. In 1821 the elderly veteran
requested repatriation to Africa as a reward for his military service. Instead he was
granted land in the new township of Garafraxa By 1826. Pierpoint then in his
eighties – had cleared five acres and built a small house on the east half of lot 6.
concession 1.