An Important Black Leader in Nova Scotia

By Lori Friesen

David George was a Baptist preacher and a Black loyalist. His powerful sermons made him the most famous preacher in Nova Scotia in 1784. His speeches brought big crowds of Black and White Christians together.

The Shelburne Riots

Some whites disliked his positive leadership in the community. His house was burned down by racist mobs in the Shelburne Riots of 1784.

George and his family moved to Birchtown where he continued his inspirational teachings to large audiences in packed churches. Using only money from the Black community, George established many Black Baptist churches for Black Canadians.

These churches provided an uplifting and safe space for people to worship. David George was a heroic Black pioneer in the Maritime Baptist community.