Captain Andrew Drew, R.N., 1792-1878

Photo by Alan L Brown - August 19, 2004

Plaque Location

The County of Oxford
The City of Woodstock
On the NE corner of Rathbourne Avenue and Sydenham Street

Plaque Text

This house was built by Capt. Drew who came here in 1832 as agent for Admiral Henry Vansittart founder of Woodstock. Purchasing land now included in the eastern section of the city, Drew divided it into town lots and formed the nucleus of this community. During the Rebellion of 1837-39 he led the Canadian force that destroyed the American steamer "Caroline", which was supplying William Lyon Mackenzie's supporters on Navy Island. This action almost precipitated war between Britain and the United States and several attempts were made on Drew's life. He returned to England in 1842 and resumed his naval career.