Toronto Necropolis
Section E Lot 100
The Blackburns’ determination to build free lives offers a window into the experience of many African American refugees during the Underground Railroad era. Having fled slavery in Kentucky, Thornton and Lucie were arrested in Detroit in 1833. Their capture sparked riots, and in the chaos, they escaped to Upper Canada. Twice, the Canadian government defended them against extradition – an early affirmation of Canada’s role as a sanctuary for freedom seekers. By 1834, the couple had settled in Toronto, the year of the city’s incorporation.
Respected citizens, the Blackburns transformed adversity into opportunity. In 1837, Thornton introduced Toronto’s first horse-drawn taxicab, a bright yellow and red carriage he called “The City.” This innovation launched the city’s taxi industry and marked the Blackburns as entrepreneurs who changed Toronto’s streetscape. Beyond transportation, they purchased six houses to rent to formerly enslaved individuals, creating safe housing and fostering community stability. Their efforts exemplified how Black refugees contributed to Toronto’s growth, not only economically but also socially and culturally.
The Blackburns were also active in the abolitionist movement, advocating for freedom and equality while building systems of support for others escaping slavery. Their story connects Toronto directly to the Underground Railroad, reminding us that the city’s identity as a diverse, inclusive community was forged through courage and solidarity.
Thornton and Lucie Blackburn are buried in Toronto Necropolis among abolitionists and reformers who shaped Canada’s role in the fight against slavery. Their legacy is woven into the fabric of Cabbagetown and the Necropolis, making these sites living memorials to resilience and progress.
Commemorating the Blackburns is not just about honouring history, it’s about recognizing Toronto’s deep ties to the Underground Railroad and celebrating the contributions of Black Canadians to the city’s cultural heritage.
Thornton and Lucie Blackburn were designated as national historic persons by the Government of Canada in 1999.
Sources:
• The Canadian Encyclopedia – Thornton & Lucie Blackburn
• Parks Canada – National Historic Person: Thornton and Lucie Blackburn
• CBC News – Story of Thornton and Lucie Blackburn
• Wikipedia – Thornton Blackburn
• Wikipedia – Lucie Blackburn
• Mount Pleasant Group – Thornton Blackburn
Photos:
• Plaques - Loozrboy, Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic, Wikimedia Commons
• Monument - Pat Farrell
