Piratical Doings on the River St. Clair. Submitted photo. Piratical Doings on the River St. Clair. Submitted photo.
Sarnia

New book recounts armed conflict in St. Clair Township

An author and historian is recounting the largely untold story about an armed conflict on the shores of St. Clair Township.

Dr. John Carter has written a book called "Piratical Doings on the River St. Clair" which documents the tale of armed invaders from the U.S. attacking the Sombra area back in 1838.

It was one of at least 14 incursions into Canada from the U.S. by members of the Patriot Army, including four locally.

Dr. Carter said this piece of history about the Upper Canada Rebellion was not well documented, noting it isn't taught in schools.

"I hope that there will be some provincial plaques put up," said Dr. Carter. "There's the local historical plaque at Sombra, but that would be a goal to get them up. All of the other events in the rebellion of 1838 do have provincial plaques and I think that's important to raise awareness."

Dr. Carter donated the book to Heritage St. Clair who polished it up with some illustrations and published it.

He'll be signing copies at the Sombra Museum at a later date. The first edition is limited to 120 copies, and they cost $45 each.

Payments will be processed through the St. Clair Township Municipal Office, and pickups will be arranged on an individual basis.

Read More Local Stories

New military crosswalk rendering. (Image courtesy of the Sarnia Legion Branch 62)

New military crosswalk in Sarnia to be unveiled

As part of a partnership between the Sarnia Legion Branch 62 and City of Sarnia, an unveiling ceremony will be held at the corner of Christina Street and Wellington Street on Sunday, June 7, at 2 p.m.

Members of the Sarnia Police Service entering a Tashmoo Avenue residence on June 4, 2026. (Photo courtesy of the Sarnia Police Service)

Two men arrested in Tashmoo Ave. standoff

Sarnia police said the investigation began on May 29 after the victim was allegedly attacked by acquaintances at a residence near Tashmoo Avenue and Christopher Drive at Aamjiwnaang First Nation.