In 1794, Richard Pierpoint, a former enslaved African, made a significant impact on the history of Black settlement in Upper Canada. After gaining his freedom, Pierpoint became a prominent figure within the Black community, embodying both resilience and determination. Originally brought to Canada from Senegal, Pierpoint had been enslaved in the British colonies but was eventually granted freedom after the American Revolution. Seeking a better future, he relocated to Upper Canada, where he became one of the earliest Black settlers in the region.

Pierpoint's contributions went beyond settling in Upper Canada; he was also a vocal advocate for the rights of Black people. He petitioned for land grants for Black soldiers who fought for the British during the war, ensuring they would have a chance at a better life. He also played a vital role in the development of the Black community, helping to establish the first organized Black settlements in the area. Pierpoint’s story serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of African-Canadians during a time when their rights were limited, and it highlights the important role that individuals like him played in shaping the history and growth of Canada’s Black communities.