Join Brian Nash in this episode of “How We Got Here” for a captivating conversation with guest Jamie Baillie, who returns to share the latest chapter in his family’s remarkable history. ]Jamie recounts the story of his ancestors, the Baillies, who were evicted from their home in Sutherland, Scotland, during the Highland Clearances. He details their arduous five-week journey in 1814 aboard a timber ship, the *Perseverance of Aberdeen*, to start a new life in Pictou County, Nova Scotia. This move from tenant farmers to landowners marked a pivotal moment, setting the stage for generations of prosperity and opportunity that their descendants would come to enjoy.
The discussion takes an exciting turn as Jamie recounts his recent pilgrimage to Scotland, a journey to walk in the footsteps of his ancestors. With the help of a local historian, he located the exact site of his family’s former village and the ruins of their home, providing an emotional and overwhelming connection to his past. This personal quest offers a powerful testament to the value of genealogical research, exploring how understanding our origins can provide a profound sense of identity and connection across generations.
Jamie and Brian also delve into the lasting impact of Scottish immigrants on the culture and development of Nova Scotia and Canada as a whole..
In this episode, Brian sits down with Historian and Author Sara Underwood to discuss a side of Prince Edward Island history that stands in stark contrast to its famous fictional orphan, Anne of Green Gables. Sara’s book, “Awful Kind: The Story of the Middlemore Children and Prince Edward Island,” shines a light on the real, and often tragic, stories of British Home Children. You’ll hear how a conversation with a descendant sparked a deep dive into the archives, leading to the remarkable discovery of thousands of individual case files for children sent from the Middlemore Homes to the Maritimes.
In this episode, Brian sits down with Peter Kelly, the driving force behind The Woodland Escape, a YouTube channel devoted to bringing 18th-century homesteading and living archaeology to life. From hand-forging nails on an open hearth to building birch-bark canoes and authentic blockhouses, Peter and his team have spent the last four and a half years recreating every aspect of early Canadian frontier life on their “Kelly’s Station” site, nestled midway between Toronto and Ottawa.
You’ll hear how Peter’s fascination with period craftsmanship—from tanning leather by brain-tanning it over coals to casting lead musket balls in historic molds—evolved into a community refuge for living historians, complete with education days for local students. We also dive into the personal side of his work: tracing his own family’s journey from 19th-century Ireland to Northern Ontario, the wild tales of logging-camp kitchens and Revolutionary-era Quaker youths sent on horseback to negotiate land deals, and why those rich narratives matter just as much as names and dates on a family tree.
Together we explore what “living history” can teach us about our ancestors’ values of community, self-reliance, and storytelling—and how unearthing those stories can deepen our own appreciation for where we came from. Whether you’re a seasoned genealogist or just beginning to wonder about your roots, Peter’s experiences remind us that the memories we preserve today will become tomorrow’s family legends.
this episode, Brian talks to Caeley Currie, the museum manager at the Bedeque Area Historical Museum in Bedeque, Prince Edward Island. Brian, who is also on the board of the Bedeque Area Historical Society and knows Caeley personally, engages in a conversation highlighting her enthusiasm and passion for her role. They discuss how Caeley’s experiences growing up near King’s Landing in New Brunswick and working there as a reenactor significantly influenced her love for history and museum work.
This afternoon I visited the Irish Families Memorial, located in Riverfront Park in Moncton, New Brunswick, is a poignant tribute to the Irish families who played a significant role in shaping the region. Erected in July 2000, this memorial stands as a testament to their resilience, determination, and enduring legacy.
The memorial’s design is both striking and symbolic. A 3-meter Celtic cross serves as the centerpiece, surrounded by four standing stones engraved with the names of approximately 400 Irish settlers. These stones, along with four engraved tablets, represent the four provinces of Ireland: Ulster, Leinster, Munster, and Connaught. Two stone benches provide a space for quiet reflection.
It’s important to remember that Irish immigration to Canada wasn’t solely a story of famine and hardship. While some were indeed fleeing difficult circumstances, many Irish immigrants came to Canada seeking opportunity and a better life. They were skilled, resourceful, and determined to build a future for themselves and their families.
Today, it’s estimated that around 38% of New Brunswick’s population can trace their ancestry back to these Irish settlers. The Irish Families Memorial serves as a reminder of their contributions to the cultural fabric of Southeastern New Brunswick. It’s a place where we can honor their memory and reflect on the enduring impact of the Irish diaspora.
In a recent video, Brian Nash from How We Got Here Genealogy discusses his experience with an unexpected layoff and how he reinvented his career. While the video doesn’t provide a detailed transcript, it offers insights into navigating career transitions, especially when faced with unforeseen circumstances. Brian shares his personal journey and the steps he took to pivot and create new opportunities. The video is just under four minutes long, offering a concise and hopefully inspiring message for anyone facing similar challenges.
This video explores the rich history and lasting impact of the Ulster Scots in Canada, detailing their journey from Northern Ireland and their significant contributions to Canadian society. The Ulster Scots, descendants of Scottish Protestants, began migrating to Canada in the 18th century, driven by economic hardship and religious persecution [01:06]. They primarily settled in the Maritime provinces, bringing with them their unique culture, Presbyterian faith, and strong work ethic [01:21].
A pivotal moment in their history was the American Revolution, during which many Ulster Scots remained loyal to the British Crown. Their subsequent migration to Canada significantly increased the Scots-Irish population [01:48]. These Loyalist Ulster Scots played a vital role in shaping Canada’s political landscape, contributing to confederation and influencing the development of Canadian institutions [02:06]. Their musical traditions, particularly in the Maritimes, enriched the country’s cultural tapestry [02:22].
Early Ulster Scots communities established themselves in the 18th century, bringing essential skills in farming, fishing, and shipbuilding to the Maritime provinces [02:54]. They built strong communities and influenced land development and politics [03:36]. The Loyalist migration after the American Revolution further shaped the demographic and social landscape of regions like Nova Scotia and Ontario [04:01], with Ulster Scots contributing as artisans, farmers, merchants, and community leaders [04:53]. Figures like Bishop Charles English played a crucial role in establishing educational institutions, highlighting their influence on Canadian political institutions [05:20].
The Irish potato famine in the mid-19th century spurred further migration of Ulster Scots to Canada, altering the country’s demographic makeup [07:53]. Despite facing challenges, they established communities and left an indelible mark on Canadian society [09:22]. As Canada expanded westward, Ulster Scots sought new opportunities in the prairies and British Columbia, contributing to the development of these regions [10:51].
The Ulster Scots have left a lasting cultural legacy, influencing folk music, literature, and politics [12:24]. Their work ethic and sense of community have become ingrained in the Canadian character [12:58]. Modern technology, including DNA testing and online genealogy platforms, now enables individuals to trace their Ulster Scots ancestry and connect with their heritage [17:54]. The enduring influence of the Ulster Scots is evident in place names, music, sports, and the overall Canadian identity [20:08], solidifying their place in Canada’s diverse and vibrant history.
In a recent episode of the “How We Got Here” podcast, Brian Nash spoke with Lisa Elvin Staltari of “Have Roots Will Travel” about the fascinating topic of French ancestry in North America. Lisa, who began exploring her own French-Canadian roots around 2021, shared her insights into the interconnected histories of French-Canadians, Acadians, and Cajuns, all descendants of France.
A significant part of the discussion focused on the Filles du Roi (King’s Daughters), women recruited and paid to populate New France. Lisa clarified common misconceptions, emphasizing their crucial role in the colony’s development. The video also delves into the dynamics of marriage and settlement, the close-knit nature of French-Canadian communities, and the challenges researchers face when tracing ancestry due to name variations and migration patterns.
For those looking to explore their own French-Canadian heritage, Lisa recommends valuable resources such as Généalogie Québec, Nos Origines, and WikiTree. Généalogie Québec, Nos Origines, and WikiTree.
The latest video from How We Got Here Genealogy dives deep into the often-underappreciated story of the Scots-Irish in America. It’s more than just a historical account; it’s a compelling narrative of migration, resilience, and profound influence that continues to shape the American identity.
The video paints a vivid picture, starting with their complex origins – Scots who ventured to Ulster before making the transatlantic crossing. This initial migration forged a unique cultural blend, Presbyterian faith firmly in hand, that they carried with them to the shores of America.
What struck me most was the sheer tenacity of these early settlers. They weren’t content with the established coastal colonies; instead, they pushed into the rugged back country, carving out communities and a way of life in what was often a challenging and unforgiving landscape. This spirit of independence and self-reliance clearly played a significant role in their later involvement in the American Revolution. It’s fascinating to learn about figures like General John Stark, a testament to their courage and commitment to the cause of independence.
Beyond the battlefield, the video illuminates their crucial role in the westward expansion. These were people accustomed to hard work, and they brought essential skills and a determined spirit that fueled the growth of the nation. It’s easy to overlook the contributions of these early pioneers, but this video makes a strong case for their integral part in shaping the American frontier.
The complexities of the Civil War era are also addressed, highlighting the divided loyalties within the Scots-Irish community. It’s a reminder that history is rarely black and white, and even within a distinct cultural group, perspectives and allegiances could vary greatly. The mention of figures like Grant and Jackson underscores this nuanced reality.
But the Scots-Irish legacy extends far beyond conflict and settlement. The video beautifully weaves in their impact on American culture, particularly their rich musical heritage. The roots of bluegrass, country, and folk music are deeply intertwined with their traditional tunes and storytelling through song. It makes you listen to these genres with a newfound appreciation for their historical depth.
In the end, this video serves as a powerful reminder that the story of America is a tapestry woven from the threads of countless immigrant experiences. The Scots-Irish, with their unique background, unwavering spirit, and significant contributions across various aspects of American life, are undoubtedly a crucial thread in that tapestry. It’s a history worth exploring and understanding for anyone seeking a deeper appreciation of how America became the nation it is today.
The latest video from How We Got Here Genealogy delves into a pivotal and complex chapter of Irish history: the 17th-century Plantation of Ulster. This government-sponsored colonization project, implemented by the English Crown under King James I, aimed to reshape the demographics and power dynamics of the northern province of Ulster.
The video highlights the context of the 17th century as a period of significant upheaval in Ireland, marked by ongoing conflicts between England and the native Gaelic Irish. The Plantation of Ulster was a direct response to this instability, designed to secure English control by displacing the Gaelic Irish population and replacing them with loyal Protestant settlers from England and Scotland [01:47].
Key figures like Arthur Chichester and John Davies played crucial roles in planning and executing this ambitious project [08:26]. However, the consequences for the native Irish were profound. The plantation led to widespread displacement, cultural disruption, and a dramatic shift in power, with the newly arrived settlers gaining control and the Irish being marginalized [11:37]. This created deep-seated sectarian divisions that continue to resonate in Northern Ireland today [12:18].
Interestingly, the video also traces the long-term impact of this event beyond Ireland’s shores. The descendants of the Ulster Scots settlers, often referred to as Scots-Irish, later migrated in significant numbers to countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, carrying their unique cultural traditions with them [12:25].
The Plantation of Ulster remains a controversial and deeply significant event in Irish history. This video offers a valuable overview of its causes, consequences, and enduring legacy, providing essential context for understanding the complex relationship between Ireland and England and the lasting impact on Irish identity and the ongoing conflict in Northern Ireland [03:33].
