A New Community

George and Elizabeth were soon involved in the community. George’s ability to read and write where much demand and Elizabeth became known for her nursing skill. 

The Coppings quickly became well acquainted with the community leader, Philemon Dugas and his wife, Martha Edwards. They lived on the 1st range at the entrance to the Rawdon Settlement, about an hour’s distance from the Copping lot. It is to be expected that Dugas was aware of the arrival of the Copping family and directed the family towards their lot.

Martha and Philemon Dugas’ had several daughters but no son. George’s son, twelve year old John, was apprenticed to Philemon in his mill. John was treated as family living with the Dugas family attending school in their home, the only school in Rawdon at that time, as well as working in the mill.

Philemon and Martha, known as Patty, had emigrated from the Boston area after the American Rebellion. Philemon was a captain in the British military and was awarded a medal for his service defending the crown. He is the first known settler in the Township of Rawdon. (Other former military men had been allotted land in Rawdon but did not settle on it.)

Philemon was active in the development of the Township and served in many different capacities to further the interest of the settlers. He became a member of parliament as did his son and grandson.