---

ABOUT US:

The idea for the Amherstburg Heritage Homecoming was born in the hearts and minds of many of the families that consider Amherstburg their hometown. During many different family reunions, discussion generated the idea of having a multi-family reunion. In September of 2002 a meeting was held at the First Baptist Church in Amherstburg to further the multi-family reunion idea. At the first meeting, families represented were; Thompson, Stewart, Handsor, Harris, Hurst, McCurdy, Mulder, Brown, Simpson, and Elliot.

It was during this first meeting that the name ‘’Amherstburg Homecoming’’ was born. It was also decided that if possible the event should occur on the historic Emancipation Day date. The initial planning committee was formed and members were Blair Harris, Morley Stewart, Dr. Howard McCurdy, Eddy Hurst, Milton Harris and Jean Stewart.

As many more families became involved, the original idea evolved to become the "Amherstburg Heritage Homecoming - A celebration of the town’s proud legacy of the final terminus on the Underground Railroad. "

The first year became the first annual reunion of the families and friends of those whose ancestors sought and found freedom here and the descendants of those who aided, supported and welcomed them as citizens and neighbors. The family names of those who have worked hard to organize this first year's celebration include; Hurst, Harris, McCurdy, Stewart, Wilson, Dungy, Handsor, Pinkett, Goodwin, O’Neal, Simpson, Grayer, Mulder, Russell, Thompson, Brown, Elliott, Jones, Johnson and Conway.

It is our sincere hope that this celebration continues on for many years - an event where our children can share with pride their heritage, and a day where they can remember the sacrifices made by their ancestors to implement a positive change.

Amherstburg Heritage Homecoming - "A Time To Visit Our Heritage"

---