"The story of my life"

Source-grounded summary

What the book is about

This extensive autobiography chronicles the life and work of Egerton Ryerson, a key figure in early Canadian religious, educational, and political history. Beginning with his upbringing in Charlotteville, Ryerson’s narrative reveals a deeply religious and intellectually gifted young man who embraced the Methodist ministry despite health struggles and opposition. Early ministry years were marked by vigorous preaching on challenging circuits and a public controversy sparked by an attack on Methodists, which Ryerson met with a published defense advocating religious liberty and civil rights. His missionary zeal led him to live among the Credit Indians, learning their language and customs, establishing schools and chapels, and earning their respect amid opposition from established church authorities and French Catholic traders.

Ryerson’s leadership extended into denominational politics, where he played a central role in the union and later schism between British and Canadian Methodist Conferences. His editorship of the Christian Guardian newspaper became a platform for advocating Methodist rights and religious equality, often attracting fierce opposition from the dominant Church of England establishment and political radicals. He engaged in prolonged battles over clergy reserves—lands set aside for Protestant clergy—which symbolized the broader struggle for religious equality and civil rights in Upper Canada. Despite personal losses, including the death of his son and wife, Ryerson remained steadfast, defending reformers like Marshall Spring Bidwell against political persecution and opposing rebellion while supporting constitutional government.

In the 1840s, Ryerson’s influence grew as he was appointed Superintendent of Education for Upper Canada. His extensive educational tours in Europe informed his vision for a public school system that balanced religious instruction with broad accessibility. He drafted foundational legislation, established Normal and Model schools, and promoted impartial administration free from sectarian bias. His efforts faced political opposition, including hostile school bills excluding the Bible, which he opposed vehemently, even offering to resign rather than enforce such laws.

Ryerson’s later years were marked by continued advocacy for denominational colleges, religious instruction, and church unity amid Methodist schisms. He navigated controversies over church membership rules, notably opposing mandatory class-meeting attendance as a condition for membership, a stance that led to his temporary resignation and public dispute with church authorities. His commitment to education, religious liberty, and public service endured despite health challenges and political strife.

Beyond his administrative and ecclesiastical roles, Ryerson undertook significant historical scholarship, publishing a two-volume History of the Loyalists of America that corrected misconceptions and celebrated Canadian heritage. His final years included leadership in the newly united Methodist Church of Canada, extensive correspondence reflecting on faith and public life, and preparation for his legacy. He died peacefully in 1882, mourned widely across denominations and society, remembered as a man of principle, faith, and tireless service.