Map of the Area of the August 1764 Treaty

Historical Background: The era of treaty making in Upper Canada began in 1764. In the period 1764 to 1862, there were many treaties signed, in which possession of land covering most of what is now southern and eastern Ontario was surrendered by the Aboriginal population. The Royal Proclamation Act, 1763, established Indian Country (the interior of British North America). On these lands the Crown claimed sovereignty but it also decreed that these lands were to be considered the possession of the Aboriginal peoples who lived on these lands.

The first treaty transferring possession of land was concluded by Sir William Johnson at Fort Niagara August 1764. This four mile strip along the Niagara River was surrendered by the Six Nations, Chippewa and Mississauga.

Source: Surtees, R.J. Indian Land Surrenders in Ontario 1763-1867. Ottawa: Department of Indian and Northern Affairs, 1984.