James Vrooman was born in the Niagara region in 1796 to a family of Dutch descent with deeply rooted United Empire Loyalist sentiments.
With the outbreak of the War of 1812, this family hostility toward the Americans motivated a young James Vrooman to join the Glengarry Fencibles and defend British territory. Vrooman proved an exceptional warrior, participating in several forays against the Americans including the storming of Ogdensburg, the raid at Oswego and the bloody battle of Lundy’s Lane. To reward his service, Vrooman was granted several tracts of land and in 1820, settled on Lot 6, Concession 7 of Brock Township..
In addition to his farming endeavour, the enterprising Vrooman built a grist mill, a much needed addition to the community. He also donated land for a school and a church (St. James, Vroomanton United Church).
Recognized as a community leader, in 1841, Vrooman was elected to the Home District Council. In this capacity he encouraged land survey and the construction of community roads and schools.
Vrooman maintained his association with the military, eventually retiring from the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. In the 7th Battalion Ontario Militia at age 63.
An historical plaque at the Vroomanton Cemetery marks his grave and honours his achievement.
Community Champions
Click on any name to see the page about them. Names are arranges alphabetically by last name.
Elizabeth Allin | James Anderson | William Bagshaw | George Bott | Lorne Brethour | Frank Doble | James Doble | John Doble | Bill Doyle | Ted English | James Glendinning | Jennie Glendinning | Debbie Hadden-Bath | Donald Hadden | Betty Ann Harder | Kenneth Harrison | Graydon Hogg | George Johnson | Enid Martin | Bill McDougall | Stanley Miller | Ferguson Munro | Bessie Oliver | Joseph Oliver | George Parry | Lorne Pinkham | Newton Reed | J Clare Rennie | James Ruddy | Keith Rynard | Mike Sheridan | Philip St. John | James Vrooman | George Welsh