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Today in History: Family Compact razes Mackenzie’s press in Types Riot

6/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On June 8 1826 in York, Upper Canada, members of the ruling Family Compact stormed William Lyon Mackenzie’s Colonial Advocate office, smashed his printing press and hurled the type into the harbor after his editorials denounced their corruption. The mob acted openly while officials watched, marking a violent clash between reformers and the elite.

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Story summary

On June 8 1826 in York, Upper Canada, members of the ruling Family Compact stormed William Lyon Mackenzie’s Colonial Advocate office, smashed his printing press and hurled the type into the harbor after his editorials denounced their corruption. The mob acted openly while officials watched, marking a violent clash between reformers and the elite.