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History Pre-confederation (to 1867)

Speedy Justice

The Tragic Last Voyage of His Majesty's Vessel Speedy

by (author) Brendan O'Brien

Publisher
University of Toronto Press
Initial publish date
Dec 1992
Category
Pre-Confederation (to 1867), Administrative Law & Regulatory Practice, Native American, 19th Century, History
  • eBook

    ISBN
    9781487580001
    Publish Date
    Dec 1992
    List Price
    $35.95

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Description

In 1804 an Ojibwa named Ogetonicut was facing trial in Upper Canada for the murder of a white settler. The prisoner was being transported from Toronto to Newcastle, the site of the trial, aboard the Speedy. Also on board to participate in the trial were some of the most important figures in the justice system of Upper Canada. The trial never took place: the Speedy vanished in a storm on Lake Ontario, taking with her the accused, his jailer, the judge, the lawyers, and all other passengers.

 

Brendan O'Brien recreates the wreck of the Speedy in this exciting account. In the process he examines several related issues, including the administration of justice for native people in Upper Canada, the reasons for the disappearance of the vessel, and the role of the governor in the tragedy.

About the author

BRENDAN O'BRIEN is a Toronto lawyer. He was The Osgoode Society's first president.

Brendan O'Brien's profile page