Upper Canada Land Petition of Elizabeth Dachsteder [sic]Van Every received at the Executive Council Office on 17 Jul 1794
“Humbly Sheweth That Your Petitioners former Husband was Frederick Dachsteder who served in Colonel Butlers Rangers from the commencement of the late War; And unfortunately died while on actual service in an Expedition against the Enemy in the Year 1781 being then a Lieutenant in that Corps, leaving your petitioner a disconsolate Widow with one Child (still alive) and in very Distressed circumstances. —Your Petitioner never having yet taken up any Lands for herself or Husband Now most humbly entreats Your Excellency to be allowed to Locate what portion you in your Goodness may think proper to allow to her late Husband Lieutenant Frederick Dachsteder.” [Unsigned] Received at the Executive Council Office on 17 Jul 1794 and read in Council on 4 Nov 1794 then read again on 29 Jun 1795 and again on 19 Aug 1795. Ordered the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of this Petition in its full extent, for the reasons given in the report of Capt. J. Macdonnell’s petition, but in consideration of the circumstances stated recommend that 1200 acres be granted for the support of the petitioner and her son. To lay over for his Excellency. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “U-V” Bundle 1, Petition Number 19]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Dochstader (sic) of Caistor dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 27 Jul 1795
“That your Petitioner was always attached to His Majesty’s Government, and had two Sons in Sir John Johnsons Corps, during part of the American war—in which he lost the greater part of his Property—That your Petitioner has been upwards of Seven years in the Province, and has not yet received any Land, owing chiefly to having purchased an improvement on Lands not surveyed till last year—prays your Excellency will be pleased to grant him Six Hundred acres of Land—Your Petitioner also begs leave to represent that his Eldest Son George Adam who had been in the Service, died two years ago without having received any Land and left two Children, (Boys) whom your petitioner is obliged to provide for. Humbly prays your Excellency will graciously be pleased to allow them such Land as their father may have been entitled to, and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray. [Signed] Henry Docksteder” Received by the Executive Council on 28 Jul 1795 and read in Council on 29 Jul. Ordered Henry Docksteder 400 acres Henry Docksteder Junior 200 and the sons of George Adam Dochsteder 200 each and for location referred to the Surveyor General. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1 Petition Number 73]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Dachstader [sic] of the Township of Gainsborough dated at Niagara on 31 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“Humbly shews—Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him for his Family 300 acres of land upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792, or such other quantity of land as to your Excellency in your wisdom may think meet. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Received at the Executive Council Office on 1 Jun and read in Council on 13 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended for family lands but then the order struck through. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 2, Petition Number 93a]
Certificate of Nathaniel Pettit dated 5 Jun 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Dachstader
“I do hereby certify that Henry Dachstader came into the Province in the year 1787 with a wife & five Children [Signed] Nathl Pettit” Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 2, Petition Number 93]
Order of Council to Henry Dochsteder [sic] (no Upper Canada Land Petition attached)
Read in the Executive Council on 20 Jul 1797. Ordered recommended for 300 acres family lands.
Warrant issued to Henry Dochsteder [sic]
“Granted to Henry Dochsteder three hundred Acres. Order of Council, 20th July 1797 [Signed] Alexr McDonell C. C. G. C. To the Attorney-General. Re-newed this Warrant and issued it 24th June 1809—” Notation on the reverse: “Querie if the Son of Either of the John Dachsteders UE [Initialled DWS]” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 112]
Receipt issued by the Receiver General’s Office on 24 Jun 1809
“John Carol agent of Henry Dachsteder has paid into this office, Three pounds five shills & two pence for Patent fee on 300 Acres granted by an Order of Council 20 July 1794 Location in Caistor £3.5.2 [Signed] P Selby, Actg Receiver Genl to Surveyor Genl” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 112a]
Certificate of Samuel Street, J. P. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 18 Jul 1797
“Personally appear’d Henry Dachsteder before me Saml Street one of His Majestys Justices of the Peace for the Home District, and maketh oath that he brought into this Province in the year 1788 a wife and five children who still reside in the Province—Newark 18th July 1797 Sworn before me Saml Street J. P.” [Signed] Henrich Dachstetter” Added notation of Samuel Street, J. P.: “I do Certify that I saw Henry Dachsteder and Family when they came in, which was in the year 1788 but do not recollect the number of Children [Signed] Saml Street J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 112b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Dachsteder (sic) dated on 21 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“That your Petr Served during the late American War in the Six Nation Indian Department, and holds a Lieuts Commission Respectfully shews, That your petitioner is desirous to settle on the lands of the Crown in this Province, being in a condition to cultivate and improve the same. That he is ready to take the usual oaths, and to subscribe the declaration, that he professes the Christian Religion, and obedience to the laws, and has lived inoffensively in the country which he has left. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him such quantity of Land as allowed to Officers of his Rank upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792, or such other quantity of land as to your Excellency in your wisdom may think meet. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Received at the Executive Council Office on 5 Oct and read in Council on 8 Oct 1796. Ordered Commission to be produced. Later order: Lieut “Dotcester” of the Indian Department to received 200 acres if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 4a]
Certificate of Samuel Street J. P. dated on 14 Oct 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Dachsteder
“I do hereby Certify that John Dochsader came within the Lines in the year 1777 and was from that time an Officer in the Indn Department til the Peace of 1783 Given under my hand this 14th Octr 1796 [Signed] Saml Street J.P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 4a]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Hayton dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 2 May 1797
“Humbly shews- That your Petitioner is a native of this Province, being born at Quebec – that he has never received any Lands. That his father served His Majesty in the old French war, & in the Last – That he is married to Capt Dachsteder Sister, by whom he has four Children and that his wife and two children, are now with him in this Province and being desirous to settled therein, prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him such Land, as to your Honor may seem meet, and Your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—” Peter Hayton made his mark. “witness T Ridout” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797. Ordered 200 acres if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 155]
Certificate of William Dickson, J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Hayton
“I do hereby Certify that on this 2d day of May 1797 Peter Hayton appeared Before me William Dickson Esquire one of his Majestys Justices of the Peace in and for the Home District and took the Oath of Allegiance and Signed the Declaration [Signed] William Dickson JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 155b]
Mentioned in the report of David W. Smith, Acting Surveyor General dated at the Surveyor’s Office, Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 10 Nov 1796
“May it please your Honour, In obedience to your Honors reference to me, on the 8th of October last, to report on the petition of Samuel Street Esquire, who prays for Lots No 2 & 3 with their broken front, on the river Niagara, in the Township of Newark, which he states to have been in possession of, for some Years—I had reference to the plan sent me from Quebec of that Township, & by it I perceive that Mr Streets name appears on the Lots No 3 & 4, & not upon 2 & 3 – which may either be a mistake of that Gentlemans, or of the office at Quebec, or perhaps in consequence of an Exchange—The broken fronts of Nos 1. 2. 3 &4 came vacant on the plans from Major Hollands Office, the broken front No 5 was entered as comprehending the The New Landing, & when I received the plan of Newark which was in possession of the late Landboard for the County of Lincoln—, the name of Elijah Phelps was entered thereon—on the broken front of No 2, —When Mr Street lodged the Minute at my Office directing my Report; he left four other papers in support of his Claim, Copys of which are hereunto annexed—
No 1 The first appears to be an Judgement by Lt Coll Depeyster Concg the upper posts under the Authority of General Haldimand the then Governor & Comr in Chief of Canada, dated at Niagara, the 10th August 1784 – Transferring two parcels of Land – (formerly granted to Mr Isaac Dolson by Brigadier General Powell) to Messs Street & McLauchlin, the one parcell, said, among other things to be bounded on the South by Niagara river, & on the west by Mount Pleasant, —the other Parcell said to be situated on the Top, & close to the brow of the said Mount Pleasant, and Niagara river: —This permission to Messrs Street & McLauchlin being on condition of their holding the said Lands, upon the Tenor of His Majestys additional Instructions to the Comr in Chief of Quebec, dated the 16th July & the 7th August 1783; to which it seems that Messrs Street and McLauchlin agreed—
No 2 The Second paper dated the 16th of August 1784 appears to be a quit Claim of the aforementioned Lands from Isaac Dolsen, to Messrs Street & McLauchlin—
No 3 The Third paper is the Copy of a memorial from Mr Street to Lod Dorchester the 15th April 1790, apprehending that from the remarks made by the Engineer (Lieut Humphrey) Government might be induced to take part of his Land from him, after a very considerable Expense; praying therein for Relief, & offering at the same time certain reserves within the premises—such as Land for Store houses—the L[ince] Storie &c
No 4 is said to be the Copy of a Letter from Mr Street to Sir John Johnson Bart the 20 april 1791, containing a long narrative respecting the land in Question—
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Matthew Dolson received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Jun [1796]
“most humbly sheweth That your Petitioner hath served His Majesty as a Volunteer in the Colonel Butlers Rangers and having a Wife and Two Sons to Provide for most Humbly hopes that your Excellency will be Pleased to take his Case into Consideration and find him Entitled to his His [sic] Majesty’s Bounty. Your Petitioner therefore Requests therefore Requests [sic] that your Excellency will be Pleased to Grant to His wife and Family a few Hundred Acres of the Vacant Land on the head of the Planes near the fork (or Clark’s Mill Creek) on the River Thames south side in the second Township and second Concession. And your Petitioner as in Duty bound shall ever Pray [Signed] Matthew Dolson” Received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Jun [1796] and read on 14 Jul. Ordered recommended that 200 acres may be granted to the Petitioner in addition. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 38]
Upper Canada Land Petition of William Dolson dated at Niagara on 25 Oct 1796
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner has been resident in this Province for Six Years & for these two years have been constantly in the Long Point Settlement – That your Petitioner has as yet drawn no Lands in this Country therefore prays your Honor will grant him two hundred Acres of Land and that the same may be located at Long Point Settlement his residence having been so long and as in Duty bound Your Petitioner will ever pray—[Signed] William Dolson” Received at the Executive Council Office on 10 Nov 1796 and read in Council on 7 Mar 1798. Ordered 200 acres in the Long Point Settlement under the New Regulations when they shall be established before which no warrant of survey to be issue. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 25]
Mentioned in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of William Scantling read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“The Petition of William Scantling – Respectfully shews—That he has been 8 years in the Province and never received any Land – that he is married to Jane – a daughter of John Donaldson who served His Majesty many years in the 55th Regt— That your petitioner is desirous to settle on the lands of the Crown in this Province, being in a condition to cultivate and improve the same. That he has taken the usual oaths, & is ready to subscribe the declaration, that he professes the Christian Religion, and obedience to the laws, and has lived inoffensively in the country. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him 200 acres & to his wife 200 acres of land upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792, or such other quantity of land as to your Excellency in your wisdom may think meet. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul. Ordered recommended for two hundred acres of land for himself; but it does not appear his wife is the daughter of a U. E. Loyalist. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 84]
Certificate of William Dickson J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Scantling
“I do hereby Certify that John Donaldson, appeared before me William Dickson Esquire, and being duly sworn made oath that Jane Donaldson married to William Scantling is his Daughter he coming under the Description of an U. E. being Discharged from the 55th Regt. in America [Signed] William Dickson JP.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 84c]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Donalson (sic) dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 29 Jul 1795
“humbly sheweth—That Your Petitioner served His Majesty in the 55th Regt near Nine Years that he was wounded at Ticonderoga and has received only one hundred acres—Prays for for [sic] such further grant as You’re your [sic] Excellency may think Proper and yr Petitioner, as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] John Donalson” Received by the Executive Council on 29 Jul 1795 and read in Council on 29 Jul. Ordered his grant to be made four hundred acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1 Petition Number 24a]
Certificate of P Frey appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Donalson
“Mountain John Donalson Entitled to four Lots by order of the Board [Signed] P Frey” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1 Petition Number 24]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Donaldson dated on 24 Mar 1797
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner came to this Settlement in the year 1783 and shortly after settled under authority on the mountain, That since that time your Petitioner has Industriously laboured his farm, and in his Zeal to promote the Interest of the Community has hurt himself materially in the Building of a Mill, which has not turned out to his Expectations; Your Petitioners Merit however principally Consists he presumes on a Steady adherence for forty years, to His Majesty Government & service; As a Soldier in the War of 56 he assisted in the taking of Ticondaroga, Montreal, Niagara, and aided to Quell the Indians at Detroit. His discharge is hereunto annexed—Subsequently your Petitioner in the American War suffered Imprisonment and lost Property and provisions which he had gathered together for General Burgoyne—Your Petitioner Therefore Humbly Prays your Honor, to the three hundred acres already Granted him, to add further a Portion as your Honor may think Proper to Condem to the Better Employment of the Remains of a life perhaps Shortened by these wounds Received on one Day at Ticondaroga. Your Petitioner has likewise to state that he Brought into this Country in the year 1783 a wife & five Children, His wife the Daughter of a Loyalist who Died in the City of New York, in the year 1777—John Johnson on the mountain is the only person who can bear witness to this; Therefore on making these allegations appear also Prays your Honor for Family Lands, and as in Duty Bound your Petitioner will Ever Pray [Signed] John Donaldson” Read in the Executive Council on 28 Mar 1797. Ordered recommended for 300 acres as family Lands and 200 acres to his wife as the daughter of an U. E. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 56]
Certificate of William Dickson dated 27 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Donaldson
“Personally Came Barnabas Cain Before me William Dickson Esqr One of His Majestys Justices of the Peace in and for the Home District, who being Solemnly Sworn, made Oath that John Donaldson, now of Stamford, came into this Province some time between the Years 1783, and 1786; and that his family Consisted of a wife & five Children—That they resided at the said Barnabas Cains House for the Space of Six months previous to Settling on their Land—Sworn Before me this 27th March 1797 [Signed] William Dickson JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 56]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Jeremiah Donivan received at the Executive Council Office on 22 Jun 1795
“humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner desirous of becoming an Inhabitant of Newark, Prays yr Excellency will grant him Lot No 181, that he may build upon the same, & yr Petitioner as in duty bound will ever Pray—[Signed] Jeremiah Donivan” Received at the Executive Council Office on 22 Jun 1795. Ordered a lot granted and referred to the Surveyor General. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1, Petition Number 36]
Signer to the petition of the inhabitants of Stamford Township for a mill attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Timothy Skinner dated 23 Jun 1800
“The petition of the Subscribers (Inhabitants of Lincoln County Stamford Township) – Most Respectfully Sheweth that there is a Great want of Mills at or near the Falls of Niagara. We therefore pray that Timothy Skinner (Senior) may be tolerated to build Said mills Adjoining his own and land and As in duty bound we Shall ever pray [Signed] Thomas Millard, Chas Willson, James Forsyth, Haggai Skinner, Noah Cook, John Hardey, Edwd Lafferty, John Losea, John Durham, Edward Durham, Thomas Millard Senior, John Reilly, Peter McMicking, Jacob Kilman, John McKerlie, John Clow, Adam McNair. Peter Thomson, Paul Cripps, Bri[lrehald] [br]omson, John Thomson, Thomas McMicking, Joseph Robeson his mark, John Chisholm, Donald Rose, James Cooper, Conrad Dorshimer, Patrick Reilly, Benjamin Skinner, Azariah Lamer, William Lundy, Jacob Fonger, William Fonger, Charles Grene, Benjamin Skinner Senor, Ebenezer Skinner, Isaac Chambers, Robert Spencer his mark, James Crawford, Chris Buchner, Henry Ramsey, [fred…] gobalt, Thomas Doan, John Upher, Jacob Upper, George Upper, George Couke, Robert Wilkerson, Benajah Williams, George Keefer, John Hilz, Ezekiel Woodruff, Giles Hall, Hugh Wilson, John Wilson, John Wilson Junr, Johnneal Kelhone, John [….] John Si[lverthorn]” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 5, Petition Number 127d]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of George Dorshimer of Stamford, Yeoman received at the Executive Council Office on 26 Jan 1802
“Humbly shews That he is Son of Conrod Dorshimer of Stamford, who has been settled in the Province 15 Years – Petitioner is upward of 21 Years of Age – & prays Your Excellency will please to grant him a farm Lot, for immediate Settlement & Yr Petitioner will Ever Pray – [Signed] George Dorshimer” Received at the Executive Council Office on 26 Jan 1802 and read in Council on 4 May 1802. Ordered recommended for 200 acres in the usual places and on the usual terms. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 5, Petition Number 54b]
Certificate of David Secord, J. P. dated at St. Davids on 18 Jan 1802 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of George Dorshimer
“I do Cartify that the Barer George Dorshemer of the Township of Stamford Has been Long in this province and always Behaved himself as a Good inhabitant and a true subject of our Lord the King. Given under my hand and seal this 18 Day of Jany 1802 [Signed] David Secord J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 5, Petition Number 54]
Certificate of Stephen Secord dated at Saint Davids on 18 Jan 1802 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of George Dorshimer
“I Do hereby Sertify that George Dechimer of the County of lincon and township of Stamford hath Served under me as a Serjt of militia for the Space of two years and all ways behaved him Self as a good and faithfull Subject to the British Government [Signed] Stephen Secord Capt of Militia County Lincon” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 5, Petition Number 54a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Alexander Douglas dated at Niagara Town on 10 May 1796
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner having been a Residenter in this Province for these eleven years past, prays that your Excellency will please to grant him an acre Lot in the Town of Niagara. And your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] A Douglas” Read in Council on 14 Jul. Ordered recommended for a town lot at Niagara if a resident in the province. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 48]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Alexander Douglas dated at Niagara on 24 Feb 1796
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner has resided eleven years in the province of Upper Canada, during which period has always conducted himself as a good and Loyal Subject from which he humbly flatters himself will be found deserving in some degree to the benefit of his Majestys most gracious bounty of Land, of which he has not in any manner hitherto partook. Having been in Great Britain upon private Business for these eighteen months past has hitherto prevented him laying his memorial before your Excellency. May it therefore please your Excellency to take the Petition into consideration and grant unto your Petitioner such quantity of Land, as to your Excellency shall seem proper & your Petitioner shall ever pray. [Signed] A Douglas” Read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended for 400 acres on his residing in this Province. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 21]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Alexander Douglas, Merchant dated at Queenstown on 30 Sep 1796
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner sometime ago applied to you in Council for part of the waste Lands of the Crown: That your Petitioner understands in Consequence 400 acres has been granted, with this your Petitioner is Gratified and receives it with Pleasure, at the same time your Petitioner Conceives a want of knowledge of him or some other Circle, who generally your Petitioner apprehends has met with greater Indulgences. Your Petitioner by no means Envys the good fortune of others, but feels that His Situation in the Settlement and Consequence as a Merchant should be undervalued especially, by so high authority your Petitioner has with Submission to say he has been 12 years in Upper Canada, came form Scotland a young man under the Protection of the Honourable Robert Hamilton and now imports to the amount of 2000 pounds Halifax yearly. Should these Considerations have any weight with your Honor your Petitioner will be happy in having Such additional quantity as in your Discretion you may see fit and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever Pray [Unsigned] Received at the Executive Council Office on 4 Oct and read in Council on 8 Oct 1796. Ordered 200 acres in addition to put petitioner on an equal footing with Mr. T. Dickson. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 22]
Named in “Report of Persons recommended by Paul Averill, with the Lots subscribed for by them” in Townsend Township, Norfolk County prepared by Acting Surveyor General David W. Smith dated on 5 Apr 1797 [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 62]
Grantee: Doyle, Benjamin authorized by Paul Averill on 2 Mar; The Oath of Allegiance not yet returned; Lot asked for: Lot 9 Concession 10; No appropriation made
Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Doyle dated at Niagara on 17 May 1796 [using a pre-printed from with fill-ins]
“The Petition of Benjamin Doyle, Blacksmith to the Indian Department on the Grand River & late a private in Butlers Rangers during the American war- who has a wife & Six children, & never received any Land for himself or family—his wife being the daughter of Andrew Summers who served in Sir John Johnson’s Corps- Respectfully shews, That your petitioner is desirous to settle on the lands of the Crown in this Province, being in a condition to cultivate and improve the same. That he has taken the usual oaths, and subscribed the declaration, that he professes the Christian Religion, and obedience to the laws, and has lived inoffensively in the country. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him 300 acres & 400 acres for his wife & family upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 17 May 1796. Ordered discharge and certificate wanted. Read again on 4 Apr [1797]. Ordered 250 acres for family lands if not granted before – The claim of Petitioner’s wife referred to the U. E. List. Read again on 1 Jul 1812. Ordered that the Petitioner’s military lands may be completed if not already done. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 3, Petition Number 82]
Unsigned Certificate attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Doyle
“I do hereby certify that Benjamin Doyle served as a Private Soldier in Butlers Rangers during the American war – & that he married Catherine the Daughter of Andrew Summers late of Sir John Johnsons Corps—” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 3, Petition Number 82a]
Unsigned Certificate attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Doyle
“I do hereby certify that Benj: Doyle had a wife and four children in the year 1787—”
Certificate of Ralfe Clench dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 3 Apr 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Doyle
“Benjamin Doyle came to Niagara in the year 1778 and Catharine Summers his wife in 1779, were married in 1780 and have four Children living born before the year 1789. Benjn Doyle served as a Private Soldier in Butlers Rangers. Newark 3d April 1797 [Signed] Ralfe Clench Lieut late Rangers” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 3, Petition Number 82b]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Eli Danforth dated at Niagara on 28 Jul 1797
“Humbly sheweth, That your Petitioner came into the Province in the spring of the year 1795 – and has remained in it ever since- that some time last winter, he received a recommendation from Mr Pierces agent for a Lot in Townsend, and having lodged a certificate of his oath was entered for Lot No 16 in the 2nd Concessn of that Township – but having soon after found that one Benjn Doyle, a Blacksmith, was living with his family on the aforementioned Lot, and that the neighbours were desirous of retaining him amongst them, on account of his Trade- your Petitioner resigned the Lot & Doyle, who has obtained a recommendation will, he presumes, hold it – There being no other vacant Lot in the Township your Petitioner humbly prays your Honor will be pleased to confirm to him a grant of 200 acres, elsewhere, and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Eli Danforth” Added notation: “Your Petitioner also prays your Honor for the Lease of Lot No 11 in the 3rd Concession of Townsend- a Crown reserve [Signed] Eli Danforth” Received at the Executive Council Office on 14 Aug 1797 and read in Council on 21 Aug 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres he having resigned his claim to a location. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 101]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Doyle of the County of Haldimand in the District of Niagara dated at Barton on 15 Apr 1811
“Humbly Sheweth that your petitioner is the Son of Benjamin Doyle of the County and District aforesaid a Loyalist U. E. and he is of the age of twenty one Years and upwards that he has taken the oath of Allegiance as will appear by the accompanying certificate that having never received any lands nor oder for lands from the Crown, he humbly prays Your Excellency would be pleased to grant him two hundred Acers of the waste lands of the Crown his majestys Benevolence to persons of his Description And as in Duty bound will ever pray.” Henry “Doyl” made his mark. “Signed before me at Barton the 15 April 1811 [Signed] Richard Beasley JP. Your petitioner craves to have Thomas Hamilton of York to locate and take out the patent for the said land.” Henry “Doyl” made his mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 15 Aug 1811. Ordered it does not appear that the petititioner has had any Land by Order in Council. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle “Miscellaneous 1797-1826” Petition Number 40]
Certificate of Richard Beasley dated at Barton on 15 Apr 1811 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Doyle of the County of Haldimand in the District of Niagara
“District of Niagara to wit Before me Richard Beasley Esqr one of his Majestys Justices of the peace for the said District personally appeared Henry Doyle son of Benjamin Doyle above named and made Oath that he has never received any Land or Order for lands from the Crown—Sworn before me at Barton the 15th April 1811 [Signed] Richard Beasley JP” Henry “Doyl” made his mark. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle “Miscellaneous 1797-1826” Petition Number 40]
Certificate of Richard Beasley dated at Barton on 15 Apr 1811 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Doyle of the County of Haldimand in the District of Niagara
“I Richard Beasley one of his Majestys Justices of the peace for the District of Niagara do hereby Certify that Henry Doyle the petitioner is the person he Describes himself to be and has never to my knowledge or Belief ever Received any lands or Order for lands from the Crown—[Signed] Richard Beasley JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle “Miscellaneous 1797-1826” Petition Number 40a]
Certificate of Richard Beasley dated at Barton on 15 Apr 1811 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Doyle of the County of Haldimand in the District of Niagara
“I do hereby certify that Henry Doyle of the County of Haldimand appeared before me and took the Oath of Allegiance to his Majesty King George the third his heirs and Successors. Sworn before me at Barton the 1th of April 1811 [Signed] Richard Beasley JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle “Miscellaneous 1797-1826” Petition Number 40b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Doyl (sic) of Blenheim Township, Oxford County yeoman dated 12 Dec 1815
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is a Son of Benjamin Doyl of Burford in the London District a UE Loyalist. That he has attained the age of twenty-one years and upwards and has never drawn any Land or received any order for Land from the Crown. Wherefore your Petitioner humbly prays your Excellency would please to take his Case into consideration and grant him two hundred acres of the waste lands of the Crown. And your Petitioner As in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] John Doyl Charlotteville 12th December 1815.Read in Council 16 January 1816. Granted 200 acres [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 10, Petition Number 49]
Certificate of John Backhouse J P dated 12 Dec 1815 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Doyl
“District of London} At a Court of General Quarter Sessions of the Peace, holden at the Township of Charlotteville on the twelfth day of December in the fifty-ninth year of His Majesty’s Reign, personally appeared John Doyl, who being duly sworn deposeth and saith, that he is the Person he describes himself to be in the within Petition, that he is twenty-one years of age & upwards & has never drawn any Land or received any order for Land from the Crown — Sworn in open Court this 12th day of Decemr 1815} [Signed] J. Backhouse chairman [Signed] John Doyl” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 10, Petition Number 49a]
Certificate of Archibald Burtch of Blenheim 1815 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Doyl
“Archibald Burtch of Blenheim maketh oath and saith that John Doyl is the Person he describes himself to be in the within Petition, that he is upwards of twenty one years of age, & has never drawn any Land, or Order for Land from the Crown to the best of his knowledge and belief – Sworn in open Court this 12th day of December 1815} [Signed] J. Backhouse chairman [Signed] Archibald Burtch” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 10, Petition Number 49a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Gilbert Drake of the Township of Niagara, Innkeeper dated at York (Toronto) on 6 Oct 1806 on a pre-printed form with fill-ins
“Humbly Sheweth, That your Petitioner has been in this Province about Six years, has a Wife and seven Children in this Province, and is in sufficient circumstances to go upon a new Farm—that he has taken the Oath of Allegiance (as will appear by the accompanying Certificate) has never received any Land or Order for Land, from the Crown, and is desirous to occupy and improve a vacant Lot; that he is prepared and undertakes, in case his Petition Shall be favourably answered to pay within Three Days from the date of the Order in Council, into the hands of his Majesty’s Receiver General of this Province, as well the whole of the Fees allowed by his Majesty to be charged on the Patent that is to issue, as the Fees of Survey. And your Petitioner will, within the same Period, produce to the Clerk of the Executive Council, the Receiver General’s Receipt for such Fees. Wherefore your Petitioner prays that your Excellency may be pleased to Grant him Two Hundred Acres of the Waste Lands of the Crown, under the Regulation of the 9th January, 1804, acted upon the 6th July 1804. And your Petitioner in duty bound, will ever pray. [Signed] Gi Drake” Received by the Executive Council on 6 Oct 1806. Council note at the bottom: “he is to Bring the Certe of having Taken the Oath of Allegiance when he comes over again.” No order of Council recorded. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle “Miscellaneous 1797-1826”, Petition Number 33]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Drinkwater of the Town of York (Toronto) dated on 8 Dec 1821
“The petition of James Drinkwater a Native of England, now of the Town of York yeoman Humbly Sheweth That your petitioner was born in the County Gloucester – in England and is twenty five years of Age. He has taken the oath of Allegiance as will appear by the Annexed Certificate. He has never received Any Land or order for Land from the Crown, and is desirous of occupying & improving fifty acres of Land in this Province. Therefore your petitioner humbly prays that your Excellency in Council may be pleased to grant him fifty acres of he waste lands of the Crown and permit Ezekiel Benson of York to be his agent to locate the Same & take out the Deed when Completed. — and your Petitioner in duty bound will Ever pray York 8th Decr 1821” James Drinkwater made his mark. Witness [Signed] Ezekl Benson. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 55]
Certificate of James Fitsgibbon, Commissioner dated 8 Dec 1821 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Drinkwater
“I certify that James Drinkwater, a native of England, now of the Town of York, Farmer hath taken and subscribed the Oath of Allegiance required by Law, before me at York, in the Home District, this eighth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty one [Signed] James Fitsgibbon” Commissioner” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 55a]
Government Ruling attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Drinkwater
“Govt House 10th December 1821. Referred for the Surveyr General’s Report for the information of the Honorable Executive Council By order [Signed] [S Mellten]” “It does not appear that the Petitioner has been granted any Land. [Signed] T. Ridout S. Genl S. G. office York 11 Dec 1821” “Received from the Surveyor General 13th Sepr 1824. In Council 1 December 1824 Recommended 100 Acres [Initialed] WDP” “See another petition of his Read in Council 24th Novr 1824, on which an Order for One hundred Acres is issued. Therefore this is not to be acted upon [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 55b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Drinkwater of the Township of Chinguacousy yeoman dated at York (Toronto) on 10 Nov 1824
“Humbly sheweth that your petitioner is a native of the parish of Kemerton in the county of Gloucester, and has arrived in this province from England upwards of three years ago — That your petitioner has means to improve land and is desirous to become a settler on the waste lands of the Crown in this province. Wherefore your petitioner humbly prays that your Excellency would be pleased to grant him such a portion of the waste land as a settler as your Excellency may deem meet — And your petitioner shall ever pray. – York 10th November 1824” [Signed] James Drinkwater” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 46]
Certificate issued to James Drinkwater attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Drinkwater
“I certify that James Drinkwater a native of England hath taken and subscribed the Oath of Allegiance required by Law, before me at York, in the Home District, this 10th day of Novr in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty four [Signed] [,,,,,] Howell” Commissioner” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 46a]
Certificate of John Scott J. P. attached to the attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Drinkwater
“Chinguacousy 10th November 1824 – I hereby certify that I have known James Drinkwater for three years, during which he has been in this Township, that he bears the character of a sober, honest, industrious young man, and therefore is as likely to become a good settler as any Emigrant. [Signed] John Scott J.P. Home District” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 46b]
Government rulings attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Drinkwater
“Govt House York, Nov. 14 1824. The Surveyor General is requested to report hereon for the information of the Hon. Ex Council. By Command [Signed] J. Lyons” “I do not find that any Land has been granted to the Petitioner – on the 11th Decr 1821 a report was made [sat has] Petitions of a James Drinkwater – but no order is found thereon in this office [Signed Thos Ridout S Gs Office York 10 Nov. 1824” “In Council 24th November 1824 Recommended for one hundred Acres [Initialed] WDP” “Order issued 26 Novembr 1824” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 46]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Drinkwater of the Township of Rainham dated in Rainham on 16 Feb 1841
“The Petition of James Drinkwater of the Township of Rainham in the County of Haldimand in the Niagara District yeoman Most Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is a native Born Subject of old England and Emegrate in to this Province Sixteen years Since that he purchased one hundred acres of lot no 16 in Second Concession of the Said Township of Rainham your humble Petitioner has Cleared and fenced fifty acres of the Same has built a large frame Barn and a good log house has a wife Six children all now living on the Said lot your Petitioner understood when he purchased the Said lot on which he now lives and has made improvement that it ran to concession line between the third and Second concession of Rainham but your Petitioner has been informed that a part of the Said is a gore on which your petitioner has made improvements. Wherefore your Petitioner prays your Excellency that he may be allowed to purchase the Said gore on the north end of lot no 16 in the Second concession of Rainham as your Petitioner is now an actual settler on the Same and prays that as he has made improvements he may be allowed to purchase the Said gore at Presale and your Petitioner is ready to make the payments for the Same gore lot. And your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray Rainham 26th February 1841 [Signed] James Drinkwater” ” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1, Petition Number 4]
Deposition of Samuel Birdsell Esquire attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Drinkwater
“Niagara District To wit} Personally appeared before me Samuel Birdsell Esquire one of His Majestys Justices of the Peace in and for the Said District Elijah Harris of the Township of Grimsby and Jeremiah Johnson of the Township of Clinton in the District aforesaid yeomen who make oath and Say that James Drinkwater has a large improvement and a good frame Barn and log House with other out Building on lot no 16 in the Second Concession of the Township of Rainham in the County of Haldimand and is now an actual Resident Settler and has been for Some years on the Said Lot no 16 in 2nd Concession in Gore of Rainham aforesaid Sworn before me at Canboro in the Said District this 26th day of February 1841} [Signed] Elijah Harris [Signed] Jeremiah Johnson [Signed Saml Birdsell JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1, Petition Number 4b]
Report of Thomas Parkert, Surveyor General dated 23 Jul 1841 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Drinkwater
“The Rear part of Lot Number Sixteen in the Second Concession of the Township of Rainham is vacant Crown land & contains about 70 Acres. I respectfully request reference to the Order in Council of 26th Novemr 1840 permitting the Proprietors of land in the front part of the 2nd Concession of Rainham to purchase at the ordinary […….] price the surplus lands in rear. The lot in front of the land applied for was [Deeded] to Enoch Steward in Novemr 1796. SGO 23 July 1841 [Signed] Thomas Parker Surveyor Genl”
Order of the Executive Council dated on 9 Oct 1841 on the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Drinkwater
“In Committee 9 Oct 1841 Recommended according to the order in Council of 26 Nor 1849 [Initialed] W D” “Approved in Council 13th Oct 1841” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1, Petition Number 4c]
Upper Canada Land Petition of William Drinkwater of the Town of York (Toronto) dated in York on 9 Dec 1821
“The petition of William Drinkwater a native of England, now of the Town of York yeoman Humbly Sheweth – That your petitioner was born in the County of Gloucester in England an[d] has taken the oath of allegiance as will appear by the annexed Certificate, an[d] has never received any Land or order for Land from the Crown, and is desirous of occupying and improving fifty acres of waste land in this Province. Therefore your petitioner humbly prays that your Excellency in Council may be pleased to Grant him fifty acres of the waste lands of the Crown without fees, as an Emigrant Setler [sic], & permit Ezekiel Benson of York to be his Agent to locate the Same and take out the Deed when Completed. And your petitioner in duty bound will Ever pray – ” William Drinkwater made his mark. “witness [signed] Ezekl Benson” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 56]
Certificate of James Fitsgibbon, Commissioner dated 8 Dec 1821attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Drinkwater
“I certify that William Drinkwater – a native of England, now of the Town of York, Farmer hath taken and subscribed the Oath of Allegiance required by Law, before me at York, in the Home District, this eighth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty one [Signed] James Fitsgibbon” Commissioner” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 56a]
Government Rulings on the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Drinkater
“Government House 10th December 1821 Referred to the Survr General for Report for the information of the Honourable Council” “I do not find that the Petitioner has ever been granted any Land. [Signed] T. Ridout S. Generl 11 Dec 1821” “Received from the Surveyor General 13th September 1824” “In Council 8th December 1824 recommended 100 [Initialed] W D P” “See another petition of his Read this day, on which an order for one hundred acres is issued therefore this is not to be acted upon” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 56a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of William Drinkwater of the Township of Chinguacousy yeoman
“Humbly sheweth that your petitioner is a native of the parish of Kemerton, Gloucestershire and came into this province three years ago from England. That your petitioner is married since he came into the province and has one child, has means to improve Two Hundred acres of land and is desirous to become a settler on the waste lands of the Crown. Wherefore your petitioner humbly prays that your Excellency would be pleased to grant him such a portion of Land as a settler as your Excellency may deem meet. York 24th November 1824” [Signed] William Drinkwater” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 59]
Certificate of John Scott J. P. attached to the attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Drinkwater
“I hereby certify that I have known the petitioner William Drinkwater, since he came into this province as a sober, honest, industrious young man, and that his behaviour has been regular in every respect during his residence in my neighbourhood. Chinguacousy 24 Novr 1824 [Signed] John Scott J.P. Home District” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 59a]
Government Rulings on the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Drinkater
“Govt House 8th December 1824 The Sur Genls Report is requested hereon for the information of the Honorable Executive Council By Command [Signed] John Lyons” “It does not appear that the Petitioner has received any Land [Signed] T Ridout SGO 8 Decr 1824” “In Council 8th December 1824 recommended 100” “Order issued 9th December 1824” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 14, Petition Number 59b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Anne Dugan (sic) dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 4 Apr 1797
“The Petition of Anne Dugan wife of Cornelius Dugan, late of the New York Volunteers—Humbly shews—That your Petitioner is a daughter of Thomas Stewart of the Town of Newark a Loyalist U. E. and returned as such in their Court of Quarter Sessions—That your Petitioner has been married three years—and having never received the King’s Bounty to persons of her Description—Humbly prays your Honor would be pleased to grant her 200 acres of Land, and as in Duty bound your Petitioner will ever pray—” Anne Dugan made her mark. Witness [Signed] T Ridout. Received at the Executive Council Office on 4 Apr 1797. Ordered 200 acres to the Daughter of a Loyalist if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 66a]
Certificate of Ralfe Clench, Clerk of the Peace dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 4 Apr 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Anne Dugan
“Thomas Stewart, father of Anne Dugan has satisfied the Justices in Sessions that he adhered to the Unity of the Empire & joined the Royal Standard in America before the year 1783 Newark 4th April 1797 [Signed] Ralfe Clench Clerk of the Peace” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 66]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Cornelius Duggan {signed Dugan)
“That Your Petitioner being desirous of building a Dwelling house in the Town of Newark Prays your permission to Locate Lot No 185 for that Purpose & your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever Pray [Signed] Cornelius Dugan” No decision of the Executive Council recorded. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle “Miscellaneous 1783-1885”, Petition Number 60]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Cornelius Dugan (sic) dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 1 Aug 1795
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner during the late war in America Served as a Private Soldier in His majesty’s First Battalion of new Jersey Volunteers Commanded by Colonel Joseph Barton in Major Thomas Milledges Company & was discharged at the Peace in 1783. That as yet your Petitioner has taken up no land in this Province as a discharged Soldier your Petitioner therefore Prays that your Excellency will be Pleased to Grant the usual Quantity allowed to Discharged Soldiers, and your Petitioner Humbly Prays your Excellency will be Pleased to Grant the same at or near Long Point in Lake Erie, and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever Pray” Cornelius Durgan [sic] made his mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 1 Aug 1795 and read in Council on 5 Jul 1796. Duggan called on 29 Mar 1796 and left his discharge with Col. Campbell. Ordered recommended for 300 acres if he has received no land before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 19]
Included in a list of persons from whom the Honourable Robert Hamilton, J. P. of Queenston purchased land warrants or rights and the township for which the warrant was issued.
Abraham Duhendrix – Full Fees 200 acres in Blenheim Township [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 4, Petition Number 117c]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of William Dunbar received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Aug 1795
“humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner induced by the favourable [….] for a Mill and the pressing Wants of the neighbouring Inhabitants bought of Mr John Garner the Lot No 1 in the Township of Fort Erie adjoining to the Fort Reserve and at considerale Expense by cutting a Canal […] the solid Rock effected his purpose of supplying the mill with water. That the unexpected Decrease of the Lake waters soon deprived your petitioner of the fruits of his first Labours and left him involved in so much debt that his Creditors took from him the Farm, but in Consideration of his great Labour, perseverance and Expence, expressly left him the Mill and Scite, which he now humbly prays that your Excellency would be plesed to confirm to him by distinct Grant independent of the Title to Lot No 1. your Petitioner further humbly represents to your Excellency that one part of his Labour may at a small increased expense be rendered of great public utility in facilitating the transport Service, by passing the Boats through his Canal and thereby sureing the delay and risque of forcing them up the rapids to the great injury of the Soldiers Health—Thus Lieutenant Pilkington of the royal Engineers is well acquainted with the premises and can estimated the Expense of such Improvement as well as that actualy incurred by your petitioner, who prays that if the work should not be completed at the public expence he may be allowed a reasonable [Sale] from Boats when he shall have rendered the canal practicable and Your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] William Dunbar” Received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Aug 1795 and recommended to N. 1 to grant the prayer of this petition so far as relating to the mill site. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1, Petition Number 46]
Upper Canada Land Petition of William Dunbar of Queenston, Carpenter dated at Niagara on 9 Feb 1797
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is a native of the Shire of Nairn Scotland and has resided in this Province upwards of Ten years, during which time Your Petitioner has embarked in Several enterprises to promote his own Interest and that of the Settlement. Unfortunately after an Expenditure of nigh One Thousand Pounds the flattering Prospects he had formed to himself and the Public at Fort Erie have Failed in his Great Endevour to have Good mill Works at the Rapids; after a vast Expence to an Individual and building the Mill Your Petitioner from certain Causes finds himself Incompetent to carry his object into Execution. Your Petitioner is a Natural Born Subject of His Majesty- a Man of Good Demeanor & Moral Character, has never Received from the Bounty of the Crown any of the Waste Lands—Should your Honor think his Exertions meritorious, and worthy of the Patronage of the Person at the head of this Government your Petitioner trusts that your Honor will take his Case into Consideration and Grant him as liberal a Portion of the Waste Land as to your Honor may seem meet—And as in Duty Bound he will ever Pray—[Signed] William Dunbar” Postscript: “Mr Small Be good enough to let Mr Dickson have my warrant for Two Hundred acres Land granted me by the Council [Signed] William Dunbar” Received at the Executive Council Office on 13 Feb 1797 and read in Council on 14 Mar 1797. Ordered 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 75]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Daly dated at Niagara on 10 Mar 1797
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner Received an Acre of Land in the Town of Newark from your Council consisting of Two Lotts No 22 & 23 – That His Majesty’s Attorney General made some Objections to making out His Fiat for 2 Lotts in your Petitioners name, on which your Petitioner [begges] the name of James Duncan having promises immediately to make over the Deed as soon as it might issue – that the said James Duncan is since Dead, without having done this – that the Deed for said Lott is now in the Secretarys office ready to be Issued, and your Petitioner has no means of Securing his large Property Built on said Lott No 22, otherwise than by Praying Your Honor in Council would be pleased to cancel the Deed now in the office, and Direct to be made out in your Petitioners name – And, as in Duty Bound Your Petitioner will ever Pray—[Signed] John Daly” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Mar 1797. Ordered referred to the Attorney General for his opinion on the propriety of granting the prayer of the petition. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 143]
Report of John White, Attorney General dated 8 on May 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Daly
“In obedience to your Honor’s direction, I have reconsidered the Petition of John Daly to this answer annexed. And beg to submit to your Honor th[at if] His Majesty’s deed hath not been delivered it may be reve[rs]ed. That if the lot already granted to John Daly be only half an acre and the lot now prayed for be no more, (unless there be some reason that I am not acquainted with) the prayer of the Petition may be granted. Subject nevertheless to be revoked and cancelled, upon the application (in due form) of the Heirs of James Duncan; if the statement made in John Daly’s Petition be not strictly true, as in that case the King will be deceived in his Grant. All which is humbly submitted to your Honor’s wisdom. [Signed] J. White AG” Received at the Executive Council Office on 7 May 1797 and read in Council on 9 May. Ordered that the deed to James Duncan deceased for a lot in the Town of Newark No. 22 be cancelled and other deed issue for the same in the name of John Daly agreeable to the prayer of his petition but subject to the restriction recommended by the Attorney General. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 143c]
Included in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Captain David Shank and other Loyalist Officers dated at Niagara on 19 Jul 1793
“The Petition of Captain David Shank, Captain Samuel Smith, Captain John McGill, Captain Oneas Shaw, Captain Spencer, Captain Wm Hamilton, Lieutenant Allan McNabb, Lieutenant Arthur H. Brooking, Lieutenant William Mayne Duncanson, Ensign John McGill, & Surgeons David Burns, and James Macaulay—humbly sheweth That agreeable to His Majesty’s Proclamations your Petitioners are severally entitled to certain rated Grants of the Waste Lands of the Crown for their respective Services during the late War in America. That your Petitioners have not as yet received the Complement of lands so due to them as aforesaid. That your Petitioners are desiring of locating a part of the lands to which they stand entitled in respect of their Services as aforesaid, in this District. Wherefore your Petitioners pray that your Excellency would be pleased to allot to Captain David Shank one Thousand five Hundred Acres of land, and to each and every other of your other Petitioners One Thousand Acres of land in a Township laying immediately behind Burlington Bay the front of which is formed by the North side of His Majesty’s Highway leading from the said Burlington Bay to the River Latranche or New Thames as lately traced by Your Excellencys Directions. And your Petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray &ca In behalf of the Petitioners [Signed] David Burns” Read in Council on 23 Jul 1793. Ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 4]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Frances Connolly (now Duncanson) received by the Executive Council on 2 Jul 1800
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner was Wife to James Connolly, Sergeant in His Majesty’s Regt of Foot American or Queen’s Rangers, who was unfortunately drowned in the River Niagara being in the actual discharge of his duty;—that in Consequence thereof Your Petitioner experienced many hardships and sufferings;—Your Petitioner therefore humbly prays Your Excellency in Council will be pleased to grant to her (as the widow of said James Connolly) such a portion of Land as in your wisdom you may deem her entitled to. And your Petitioner in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] Frances Duncanson.” Received by the Executive Council on 2 Jul 1800. No order of Council noted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle “Miscellaneous 1797-1826” Petition Number 4]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Dunham of Woodhouse Township, Carpenter dated at York (Toronto) on 29 May 1798
“humbly sheweth That your Petitioner came into this Province with his deceased Father and the rest of the family (eight in number as per annexed certificate) in the year 1797—that neither of them have as yet received any land – that they actually are, & mean to remain bona fide Residents; wherefore your Petitioner prays for such a portion of land as your Honor in your wisdom may deem meet for the support of so large a family, & a Town Lot at York to accommodate your Petitioner as he intends to carry on the business of ship & boat building, & as in duty bound he will ever pray—[Signed] John Dunham” Received at the Executive Council Office on 30 May 1798 and read the same day. Ordered recommended for 200 acres and a Town Lot in York. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 30b]
Certificate dated at York (Toronto) on 29 May 1798 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Dunham
“We do Certify that Samuel Dunham father to John Dunham Ship Carpenter came into the Province of Upper Canada with his family being eight in number with an intention to Settle in May 1797 that Samuel Dunham shortly after his Arrival Died and the widow with the family now lives in the Township of Ancaster—as tenants at will—and appear to be of good moral Behavior [Signed] Richard Beasley J P, George Chisholm JP, Caleb Reynolds, James Wilson” This is followed by a list of the family: “Hester Dunham, Widow; John Dunham 24 Years of age; Mary Dunham 19 years of age; Hester Dunham 16 years of age} children; four younger Children” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 30a]
Receipt issued at the Receiver Generals Office on 12 Mar 1808 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Dunham
“John Dunham has paid into this Office Five Pounds eleven shillings Ster. Being the Patent fee according to Regulations acted upon 5 July 1804 on a grant of a Town Lot in York ordered him in Council 30th May 1798 – also eighteen Shillings Sterling for the Surveying fees thereon [Signed] Peter Russell, Receiver General To John Small Esq. Clerk of the E. Council} a Warrant issued 15 March 1800” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 30]
Receipt issued at the Receiver Generals Office on 12 Mar 1808 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Dunham
“John Dunham has paid into this office Five Pounds Halifax Curry Being the Patent fee according to Regulation acted upon 22 Dec 1797 (taken by order of Lieut Gov. Gen dated 24 Feby 1808 as signified by the Clerk of the E. Council) on a Grant of 200 acres ordered him in Council 30th May 1798 also one Pound Seven Shillings & Six pence Hx Curry for the Surveying fees thereon [Signed] Peter Russell, Receiver General To John Small Esq. Clerk of the E. Council} a Warrant issued 15 March 1800” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 30]
Upper Canada Land Petition of William Dunmead dated at Newark (Niagara- on-the –Lake) on 28 Apr 1797
“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner was a Soldier in the Jersey Volunteers commanded by Col. Skinner- and came last Fall into this Province with his Family, who are at present at John Decoes in Thorold – that your Petitioner has taken the oath of Allegiance & signed the Declaration – and being desired to settle in the Province Prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 300 acres, as military Lands – having served from the year 1777 to the end of the war and your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—” William Dunmead made his mark “witness [Signed] T Ridout” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797. Ordered 200 acres if none granted before. Later Council notation: “Mr Dunmead must produce his discharge or a Certificate from a Captain of his Regt supporting what is Stated & Saying that he was regularly Discharged after the Peace (26 June 1815)” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 25a]
Warrant granted to William Dunmead attached to his Upper Canada Land Petition
“Granted to William Dunmead two hundred acres. Order of Council 2d May 1797 [Signed] Alex. McDonell C.C.G.C. To The Attorney-General” Notation written over “A new Deed was Issued in March” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 25]
Certificate of M. Burwell dated at York (Toronto) on 8 Mar 1820 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Dunmead
“I certify that the Petitioner returned his Loyalty during the late War, and that it is now out of his power to obtain the necessary certificates to entitle him to be priviledged M. Burwell, London District” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 25b]
Certificate of Thomas Hollowood dated at York (Toronto) on 26 Jun 1815 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Dunmead
“Thomas Hollowod of Bayham in the District of London yeoman maketh Oath and saith that William Dunmead of the same place yeoman Father in law to the Deponent and the person represented in the annexed petition dated 28 April 1797 is now alive and residing in said Township and was not out of said District during the late War with the United States of America. Sworn before me at York this 26th day of June 1815 [Signed] John Small J. P. [Signed] Thomas Hollowood” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 25c]
Receipt issued to William Dunmead dated at the Receiver General’s Office on 8 Mar 1820 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Dunmead
“M. Burwell, Esqr as Agent for William Dunmead has paid into this Office the Surveying Fees on Two Hundred acres [under] Regulation of 1796. £1.7.6 for the Receiver General [Signed] G Hamilton To John Small, Esquire, Clerk of the Executive Council” Added note of Samuel Ridout: No 193 York 8th March 1820. The Land Granting office fees £3.5.2 Curry [Signed] Saml Ridout” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 25d]
Certificate of William Dickson, J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Dunmead
“I do hereby Certify that on this 28th Day of February April 1797, William Dunmead appeared Before me William Dickson, Esquire one of his Majestys Justices of the Peace in and for the Home District and took the oath of allegiance & signed the Declaration [Signed] William Dickson J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 25d]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Bartholomy Dunn received at the Executive Council Office on 16 Feb 1797
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is married to Margarett Haslip widow to the deceased Saml Haslip who died at this place in the year 1789 and left a widow and three fatherless children unprovided for Your Petitioner was married to the said widow in the year 1793, and has since taken care of the Children left by her former Husband, and since married has had two more, Your Petitioner therefore Prays that his and Infant family consisting of a wife & Five Children be taken into consideration, and that your honor will be pleased to allow them such a tract of land as to your Honor may appear meet. And as the deceased Saml Haslip had never located any lands Prays that some allowance may be made his children on his acct as the whole family were loyal and three of his Brothers now settled here, and your Petitioner will as in duty Bound Ever Pray [Signed] Bartholomy Dunn” Notation of Ralfe Clench: “Bartholomy Dunn is married to the widow of Saml Haslip, deceased” Received at the Executive Council Office on 16 Feb 1797 and read in Council on 28 Mar 1797. Ordered proofs wanting. Read in Council again on 13 May 1797. Ordered proofs being produced Margaret Dunn late Margaret Haslip recommended for 200 acres family Lands. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 81]
Certificate of John Reilly J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Bartholomy Dunn
“I do Certify that Margaret the wife of Bartholomew Dunn Came with her first husband Samuel Heaslip into this Province in the year 1790 that the said Heaslip died in the year [sic] to the best of my Knowledge the said Heaslip or wif never hd any Grant for Lands in this Province. Given under my hand at Stamford 12th May 1797—[Signed] John Reilly J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 81a]
Certificate of William Dickson attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Bartholomy Dunn
“I do Certify that Margaret Dun, to whom the within two hundred acres are Granted is now the wife of John Cochran of Wainfleet—William Dickson County of Lincoln. A Duplicated W. L. Mr Dickson 11 Novr 1803.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 81b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Dun received at the Executive Council Office on 4 Nov 1794
“Humbly Sheweth That your petitioner has been invited into this Province by a very reputable number of the Presbyterians inhabitants thereof in order that they might have an opportunity to Judge if his Loyalty, piety, prudence & other ministerial qualifications could be acceptable to them—After a trial of ten weeks the Presbuterians are fully satisfied with your Petitioners qualifications as a preacher of the Gospelor And they have unanimously solicited him to undertake the pastoral charge of their congregation and become a permanent residenter in the province—That your Petr has been regularly educated at the University of Glasgow a Edn and licensed a preacher of the Gospel Agreeable to the rules of the established Church of Scotland—That if your Petr reside here it shall constitute his glory and ambitions, to Sow the Seeds of Loyalty, morality and religion among his congregation That after a few months residence in the States, your Petr is fully resolved to Spend the remainder of his days under the wings of the British Government wherever providence may determine his lot—In consequence of Your Petr being a Presbyterian Clergyman he can have no title to any of those lands in the province which Government have reserved for the benefit of the Church. Wherefore Your Petr prays that Your Excellency would grant him twelve hundred Acres of the vacant Lands in the province belonging to the Crown or any lesser allotment as your Excellencys wisdom may Judge Suitable And sufficient for his situation in life. For which favour Your Petr shall be humbly thankful” [Unsigned]. Received at the Executive Council Office on 4 Nov 1794 and ordered granted 1200 [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1, Petition Number 41]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of the Reverend Mr. John Dun received at the Executive Council Office on 14 Jun 1795
“Most Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner has received an unanimous call to undertake the pastoral charge of the Presbyterian congregation in the Township of Stamford. That there is no place where he can build a dwelling house except on another man’s possession which is very discouraging. May it therefore please your Excellency to grant your Petitioner such a quantity of the reserved land adjoining the Presbyterian Church as your Excellency may judge sufficient for a Small parsonage and your petr as in duty bound shall ever pray [Signed] John Dun” Received at the Executive Council Office on 14 Jun 1795 and read in Council on 5 Jul 1796. Ordered the petitioner has received 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 31]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Dun dated at Four Mile Creek on 23 Dec 1796
“Humbly Sheweth—That your petitioner has resided in this province for the space of two years & one half—That he has made a Small improvement on the land which he received from the Council which he will continue to enlarge.- To the Lots which the Honbe Council granted to the presbyterian Church he has no title except during the time he officiates as Clergyman. That from certain discouraging circumstances, he proposes to resign his office—That hitherto he has never gotten a Town Lot—That he is a British Subject, professes the Christian religion & obedience to the Laws, and has lived inoffensively in the Country—prays your Honour would be pleased to grant him a Town Lot in the Town of Newark and your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] John Dun” Received at the Executive Council Office on 28 Dec 1796 and read in Council on 24 Jan 1797. Ordered granted a town lot in the Town of Newark on the usual conditions. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 70]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Durham, Edward Durham and Isaac Durham dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 5 Jun 1794
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioners are the Sons of the late James Durham deceased. That their honoured father suffered imprisonment and loss of property in the Colonies on account of his loyalty—That he removed into this Province six years since and was indulged with a location of two hundred acres of land but never located for us his sons—Your Petitioners therefore most earnestly pray that your Honors would grant them a location of Lands and that Lots Nos three and four may be assigned them in the Township of Flamborough Concession first and your Honors would indulge them with a location in some other place as much as your Honors in your wisdom shall see fit and as in duty bound they will ever pray [Signed all in the same hand] James Durham Edward Durham Isaac Durham” Received at the Executive Council on 5 Jul 1794 and read on 8 Jul 1794. Ordered one Lot each granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1, Petition Number 31]
Certificate of P. Selby, Receiver General dated at York on 26 Dec 1811 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Durham, Edward Durham and Isaac Durham
“Mr James Durham has paid into this Office three Pounds two shillings & two pence Currency the Patent fee on 200 acres in Barton under Regns prior to 9th July 1796 £3.5.2 [Signed] P Selby Recr Genl To Thomas Ridout Esquire Surveyr Genl [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1, Petition Number 31a]
Signer to the petition of the inhabitants of Stamford Township for a mill attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Timothy Skinner dated 23 Jun 1800
“The petition of the Subscribers (Inhabitants of Lincoln County Stamford Township) – Most Respectfully Sheweth that there is a Great want of Mills at or near the Falls of Niagara. We therefore pray that Timothy Skinner (Senior) may be tolerated to build Said mills Adjoining his own and land and As in duty bound we Shall ever pray [Signed] Thomas Millard, Chas Willson, James Forsyth, Haggai Skinner, Noah Cook, John Hardey, Edwd Lafferty, John Losea, John Durham, Edward Durham, Thomas Millard Senior, John Reilly, Peter McMicking, Jacob Kilman, John McKerlie, John Clow, Adam McNair. Peter Thomson, Paul Cripps, Bri[lrehald] [br]omson, John Thomson, Thomas McMicking, Joseph Robeson his mark, John Chisholm, Donald Rose, James Cooper, Conrad Dorshimer, Patrick Reilly, Benjamin Skinner, Azariah Lamer, William Lundy, Jacob Fonger, William Fonger, Charles Grene, Benjamin Skinner Senor, Ebenezer Skinner, Isaac Chambers, Robert Spencer his mark, James Crawford, Chris Buchner, Henry Ramsey, [fred…] gobalt, Thomas Doan, John Upher, Jacob Upper, George Upper, George Couke, Robert Wilkerson, Benajah Williams, George Keefer, John Hilz, Ezekiel Woodruff, Giles Hall, Hugh Wilson, John Wilson, John Wilson Junr, Johnneal Kelhone, John [….] John Si[lverthorn]” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 5, Petition Number 127d]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Eve Durham received at the Executive Council Office on 14 May 1797
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioners Husband came into this Province in the year 1786 and brought with [four] children—That your Petitioner was obliged to remain in the States with [her] five small children until your Petitioners Husband had procured a residence for his family in this Province – That your Petitioners Husband Soon afterwards dying prevented your Petitioner from coming in untill the Year 1791 with the remainder of her family—Your Petitioner therefore prays that your Honor would be pleased to allow her such a proportion of Lands for the four Children as your Honor may think proper & your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—” Eve Durham made her mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 14 May 1797 and read in Council on 16 May 1797. Ordered recommended for 250 acres of family lands and 200 acres as a settler if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 16]
Certificate of Ralfe Clench dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 15 May 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Eve Durham
“Eve Durham widow to the late James Durham who came into this Settlement in the year 1787 brought at difft times Nine Children all of whom are now in this Settlement Newark 15th May 97 R Clench” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 16b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Durham, Edward Durham and Isaac Durham dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 5 Jun 1794
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioners are the Sons of the late James Durham deceased. That their honoured father suffered imprisonment and loss of property in the Colonies on account of his loyalty—That he removed into this Province six years since and was indulged with a location of two hundred acres of land but never located for us his sons—Your Petitioners therefore most earnestly pray that your Honors would grant them a location of Lands and that Lots Nos three and four may be assigned them in the Township of Flamborough Concession first and your Honors would indulge them with a location in some other place as much as your Honors in your wisdom shall see fit and as in duty bound they will ever pray [Signed all in the same hand] James Durham Edward Durham Isaac Durham” Received at the Executive Council on 5 Jul 1794 and read on 8 Jul 1794. Ordered one Lot each granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1, Petition Number 31]
Certificate of P. Selby, Receiver General dated at York on 26 Dec 1811 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Durham, Edward Durham and Isaac Durham
“Mr James Durham has paid into this Office three Pounds two shillings & two pence Currency the Patent fee on 200 acres in Barton under Regns prior to 9th July 1796 £3.5.2 [Signed] P Selby Recr Genl To Thomas Ridout Esquire Surveyr Genl [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1, Petition Number 31a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Durham, Edward Durham and Isaac Durham dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 5 Jun 1794
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioners are the Sons of the late James Durham deceased. That their honoured father suffered imprisonment and loss of property in the Colonies on account of his loyalty—That he removed into this Province six years since and was indulged with a location of two hundred acres of land but never located for us his sons—Your Petitioners therefore most earnestly pray that your Honors would grant them a location of Lands and that Lots Nos three and four may be assigned them in the Township of Flamborough Concession first and your Honors would indulge them with a location in some other place as much as your Honors in your wisdom shall see fit and as in duty bound they will ever pray [Signed all in the same hand] James Durham Edward Durham Isaac Durham” Received at the Executive Council on 5 Jul 1794 and read on 8 Jul 1794. Ordered one Lot each granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1, Petition Number 31]
Certificate of P. Selby, Receiver General dated at York on 26 Dec 1811 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Durham, Edward Durham and Isaac Durham
“Mr James Durham has paid into this Office three Pounds two shillings & two pence Currency the Patent fee on 200 acres in Barton under Regns prior to 9th July 1796 £3.5.2 [Signed] P Selby Recr Genl To Thomas Ridout Esquire Surveyr Genl [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 1, Petition Number 31a]
Land Board Certificate issued to James Durham dated on 12 Mar 1792 (using a pre-printed form with fill-ins)
“The Bearer James Durham having on the 12th day of March 1792 preferred to this Board a Petition addressed to His Excellency the Governor in Council for a grant of Two Hundred Acres of land in the Township of No 8 in the District of Nassau We have examined into his loyalty and character and find him duly qualified to receive a single Lot of about two hundred Acres, the oath of fidelity and allegiance directed by law having this day been administered to him by the board, in conformity to the fourth article of the Rules and Regulations aforementioned. Given at the Board at Nassau this 12th day of March one thousand seven hundred and Ninety two To Augustus Jones Acting Surveyor General for the District of Nassau. [Signed] J. Butler, R. Hamilton, Robert Kerr, John Warren” Certificate of the Acting Surveyor: “I Assign to the Bearer James Durham the Lots No 5 & 6 in 3rd Concession in the Township of No 8 in the District of Nassau containing Two Hundred Acres Twenty Chains by fifty each.” Added note of Walter B. Sheehan: “I have no claim to the Above Described lots No 5 & 6 in the third Concession of Township No 8 [Signed] W. B. Sheehan” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 38]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Isaac Durham in behalf of his Brother James Durham of the Township of Newark dated at York (Toronto) on 26 Nov 1798
“Humbly sheweth – That your Petitioner having been authorized by his said Brother to apply at the Secretarys office for a Patent of Land granted him, being the Lots No 5 & 6 in the third concession of Barton – has found that a caveat has been lodged by Mr Walter Butler Sheehan against issuing thereof – Your Petitioner respectfully begs to represent to your Honor – that the aforesaid Lands had been originally claimed by Mr Sheehan but the Land Board issued a Certificate for them to his said Brother James Durham, and Mr Sheehan gave up all claim thereto, as will appear by his acknowledgment on the back of the Certificate in which manner it has passed the offices—Your Petitioner therefore respectfully prays Your Honor to direct that the said Patent may issue & be delivered to him as attorney for his Brother or that your Honor would be pleased to grant him such other relief as to your Honor may seem meet and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Isaac Durham for My Brother James Durham” Received at the Executive Council Office on 26 Nov 1795. Ordered the certificate and the vouchers must be produced. Read in the Executive Council on 8 Dec [1797 or 1798]. Ordered that the parties be summoned to attend the Council with their evidences on the first Monday in May. Read again on 7 May 1799. Recommended that the Lots No 5 & 6 3rd Conn of Barton be granted to James Durham. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 38c]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Durham dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 18 Aug 1795
“Humbly Sheweth That he came to this province upwards of a Year since, and Located Two Hundred acres of Land, but, as he has a wife and Family prays your Excellency and the Honourable Council will please to further consider him—His Father early came to this Province after the American War, improved largely near Queenston, but died three Years since, his whole Family are here and your Petitioner with the other children, and if Loyalty of the Parent has weight with your Excellency relative to claims of his children, he is conscious he will be noticed. Wherefore your Petitioner begs your Excellency will please to grant him an Addition of Two Hundred acres to that which he has already Located and he in Duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Jno Durham” Received at the Executive Council Office on 21 Aug 1795 and read on 5 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended for 200 acres in addition. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 17]
Included in a list of persons from whom the Honourable Robert Hamilton, J. P. of Queenston purchased land warrants or rights and the township for which the warrant was issued.
John Durham – Full Fees 200 acres in Pelham Township [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 4, Petition Number 117o]
Signer to the petition of the inhabitants of Stamford Township for a mill attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Timothy Skinner dated 23 Jun 1800
“The petition of the Subscribers (Inhabitants of Lincoln County Stamford Township) – Most Respectfully Sheweth that there is a Great want of Mills at or near the Falls of Niagara. We therefore pray that Timothy Skinner (Senior) may be tolerated to build Said mills Adjoining his own and land and As in duty bound we Shall ever pray [Signed] Thomas Millard, Chas Willson, James Forsyth, Haggai Skinner, Noah Cook, John Hardey, Edwd Lafferty, John Losea, John Durham, Edward Durham, Thomas Millard Senior, John Reilly, Peter McMicking, Jacob Kilman, John McKerlie, John Clow, Adam McNair. Peter Thomson, Paul Cripps, Bri[lrehald] [br]omson, John Thomson, Thomas McMicking, Joseph Robeson his mark, John Chisholm, Donald Rose, James Cooper, Conrad Dorshimer, Patrick Reilly, Benjamin Skinner, Azariah Lamer, William Lundy, Jacob Fonger, William Fonger, Charles Grene, Benjamin Skinner Senor, Ebenezer Skinner, Isaac Chambers, Robert Spencer his mark, James Crawford, Chris Buchner, Henry Ramsey, [fred…] gobalt, Thomas Doan, John Upher, Jacob Upper, George Upper, George Couke, Robert Wilkerson, Benajah Williams, George Keefer, John Hilz, Ezekiel Woodruff, Giles Hall, Hugh Wilson, John Wilson, John Wilson Junr, Johnneal Kelhone, John [….] John Si[lverthorn]” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 5, Petition Number 127d]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Durham dated on 2 Feb 1797
“respectfully Shews That Your Petitioner is the Daughter of Elias Smith, a Loyalist & prays Your Honor will please to grant her two hundred Acres of Land & Yr Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Mary Durham” Received at the Executive Council Office on 24 Feb 1797 and read in Council on 7 Apr 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as a UE. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 60]