I have not read the book, but I have read about it and about the author. Jesse Walton was a well known businessman and historian in Aurora. He wrote many historical articles for the Aurora Banner under the heading "North York-Then and Now".

William Allan was born into slavery but was freed by his master's will when he was about 30. He earned a living for a time running former slaves to Canada via the Underground Railway with which Quakers were heavily involved. Then he went to primary school to learn to read and write. He was an imposing figure, over 6' and 250 lbs, with a wonderful speaking voice. He soon became a well-loved Quaker preacher. He first came to Canada in 1877 and died in 1898 in Hibbert twp, Perth County.