After the Trent Severn Waterway was completed, the water level increased enough to submerge traditional farmlands and to require a boat for crossing to the mainland.

Two groups, led by William Yellowhead and Joseph Snake, occupied areas of southernmost Simcoe County, which they relinquished to the government in 1818.

A third group, led by John Aisance, occupied areas between Kempenfelt Bay and Penetanguishene, which they surrendered to the government in 1815.

The corridor of Crown land between Lake Couchiching, and the Severn River was informally given to the Chippewas as a hunting ground, but in 1836 a deal was struck to return this territory (including the two villages) to government hands, leaving the Chippewas with the Lake Simcoe islands as their last remaining reserve.

The influence of this policy resulted in repeated promises of protection, food, clothing, lodgings and general welfare of the people.