Land Petitions of the Niagara Settlers "Felker to Fitzgerald"


Felker, Jacob

Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Felker dated at Niagara on 2 Jul 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins)

“The Petition of Jacob Felker Respectfully shews- That your Petitioner is come to this Province with his wife & three Daughters exclusive of three sons- who are of age to apply for Lands—that your Petitioner is a native of Germany & came to america nine years ago, & has resided hither to in the state of New Jersey—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 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 [three?] hundred acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 42]

Certificate of David Secord, J. P. dated on 7 Jul 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Lodwick Felker

“I do Hereby Cartify That the Bearers Jacob Felker Joseph Felker and Lodwick Felker has Taken the oaths Prescribed by Law to bare faith and True alegence to Our Majesty King George This 7 Day of July 1796 [Signed] David Secord JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 12c]


Felker, John

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Felker dated at Niagara on 2 Jul 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins)

“The Petition of John Felker Respectfully shews- That your Petitioner is just arrived from the Jersies with a wife and one child—& that he is related to Geo: Bowman- of the Township of Stamford—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 Two Hundred 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. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 33]

Certificate of David Secord, J. P. dated on 2 Jul 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Lodwick Felker

“I do Hereby Cartify that the bearer John Felker has Taken the oaths Prescribed By Law to bare Faith and True alegeance to Our Majesty King George July 2nd 1796 [Signed] David Secord JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 12b]

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Felker dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 1 Feb 1797

“Most humbly sheweth That your Petitioner from the beginning of the late american war was an open and declared loyalist and carried arms for His Majesty’s—was several times severely wounded, taken prisoner; and suffered nine months imprisonment. That your Petitioner is resident in the Home District of this province and is married to the Daughter of John Mingle (also a Faithful loyalist) and has two Children. That Your Petitioner has as yet only drawn Two Hundred Acres of Land; Wherefore he prays Your Honor for such additional allowance as your Honor in your Wisdom may deem meet And as in duty bound he will ever pray &c—[Signed] John Felker” Received at the Executive Council Office on 4 Feb . Ordered certificate of the petitioner having married the daughter of a Loyalist wanting. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 56]


Felker, John (2)

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Felker dated at Niagara on 2 Jul 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins)

“The Petition of John Felker Jun: —23 years of age—son of Jacob Felker Respectfully shews- That your Petitioner is just arrived from the Jersies with his Father & Family- & two Elder Brothers—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 Two Hundred 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. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 34]

Certificate of David Secord, J. P. dated on 2 Jul 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Lodwick Felker

“I do Cartifye That the bearer John Felker Has Taken the oaths Prescribed By Law to Bare faith and True Alegeance To Our Majesty King George July 2nd 1796 [Signed] David Secord JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 12d]


Felker, Joseph

Upper Canada Land Petition of Joseph Felker dated at Niagara on 2 Jul 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins)

“The Petition of Joseph Felker—son of Jacob Felker late arrived from New Jersey— 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 Two Hundred 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] Added note: The Petitioner is 25 years of age. Read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul. Ordered recommended for 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 34]

Certificate of David Secord, J. P. dated on 7 Jul 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Lodwick Felker

“I do Hereby Cartify That the Bearers Jacob Felker Joseph Felker and Lodwick Felker has Taken the oaths Prescribed by Law to bare faith and True alegence to Our Majesty King George This 7 Day of July 1796 [Signed] David Secord JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 12c]

Report of the Surveyor General dated in York (Toronto) on 4 Feb 1812 on the Claim of Joseph Felker

“Sir, Pursuant to the orders of Lieut Governor Gore bearing date the 23rd February 1810, respecting Claims to Land, I have the honor to state to you for the Information of the Honorable the Committee of Council, that according to the 43rd Claim of the Niagara Commission in May 1803, Joseph Felker appears to claim & to have been allowed the South halves of Lots No 33 & 34 in the 5th Concession of Gainsborough as containing 200 acres from John Felker the original nominee. The minutes of search made thereon by this office stated, that the Lot No 33 in the 5th Concession had been described for George Miller; & the Secretary of the Province has reported that the Patent for this Lot has been completed – The minutes of search further stated that the south halves of No 34 & 35 in the 5th Concession of Gainsborough had been described for John Felker, under the authority of an order in Council of the 20 october 1796 – in which year the Description issued – but I am not acquainted with the State of the Patent upon this Description. I have the Honor to be Sir Your most obedient humble servt [Signed] Thos Ridout Surveyr Genl [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 11, Petition Number 72]

Order of the Executive Council dated 2 Oct 1810 on 4 Feb 1812 on the Claim of Joseph Felker

“This difficulty hinges upon the point of authority in the Commission, and the state of the Patent to the original nominee, and should rest with others of a similar nature, depending upon the construction of the Statute of 1797 but if as is supposed, the claimant is son & heir of the original nominee he inherits under the Patent [Initialled] WM.E [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 11, Petition Number 72b]

Order of Patent dated 17 Apr 1803 on 4 Feb 1812 on the Claim of Joseph Felker

“Will be Claimed by Joseph Felker Lotts No 33 & 34 that is 200 Acres of the South ends of said Lotts being in the 5th Concession of Gainsborough Township Originally granted to John Felker described. Niagara 17th April. Patent 13th April 1803 [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 11, Petition Number 72c]

Order of Claim and Patent dated 25 April 1803 on 4 Feb 1812 on the Claim of Joseph Felker

“District of Niagara Will be claimed before the Commissioners for Assertain[ing] Titles to Lands by Joseph Felker Lotts Numbers 34 and 25 in the Township of Gainsborough in the District of Niagara and Fifth Concession of said Township Containing 200 Acres. Originally granted to John Felker deceased. Niagara 25th April 1803 [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 11, Petition Number 72e]

Report of the Surveyor General dated on 21 April 1803 on 4 Feb 1812 on the Claim of Joseph Felker

“A Search in the Survey: Gens Office} York 21st April 1803—Entered in the Surveyr Gens Office, Book of Letters Written Ns 15.6.2115. Sam Ridout & have been described Ns 1906} John Felker is entered on the Plan of Gainsborough for the South halves of Lots 24 & 25 in the 5 Concession – containing 200 acres under an order in Council of the 20 October 1796 for the Survey: General Chewett & Ridout [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 11, Petition Number 72f]

Certificate of David Secord on 4 Feb 1812 on the Claim of Joseph Felker

“This may certify that John Felker Brother to Joseph Felker was Killed in My Mill by accident in the year of our Lord 1796 To whom it May Concern [Signed] David Secord Saint Davids 24 of August 1810” “The above Deed dated 8 July 1799 [Initialed] AM” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 11, Petition Number 72g]

Certificate of Ralfe Clench, Clerk on 4 Feb 1812 on the Claim of Joseph Felker

Joseph Felker Claimed South Pt of Lots No 33 and 34 – in the 5th Concession of Gainsborough Containing 200 Acres. Original Nominee John Felker. Claim Granted—Copied from the Original Procedings of the Commissioners in the Office of Clerk of the Peace Niagara 23d August 1810 [Signed] Ralfe Clench Clerk of the Peace Dist of Niagara” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 11, Petition Number 72h]

Felker, Lodwick

Upper Canada Land Petition of Lodwick Felker—son of Jacob Felker—dated at Niagara on 2 Jul 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“Respectfully shews- That your Petitioner is 21 years of age- and is arrived in this Province with his Father—from New Jersey—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 Two Hundred 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 2 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended for 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 12]

Certificate of David Secord, J. P. dated on 2 Jul 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Lodwick Felker

“I do Hereby Cartify that the bearer John [sic] Felker has Taken the oaths Prescribed By Law to bare Faith and True alegeance to Our Majesty King George July 2nd 1796 [Signed] David Secord JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 12b]

Certificate of David Secord, J. P. dated on 7 Jul 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Lodwick Felker

“I do Hereby Cartify That the Bearers Jacob Felker Joseph Felker and Lodwick Felker has Taken the oaths Prescribed by Law to bare faith and True alegence to Our Majesty King George This 7 Day of July 1796 [Signed] David Secord JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 12c]

Certificate of David Secord, J. P. dated on 2 Jul 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Lodwick Felker

“I do Cartifye That the bearer John Felker Has Taken the oaths Prescribed By Law to Bare faith and True Alegeance To Our Majesty King George July 2nd 1796 [Signed] David Secord JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 12d]


Felker, ______

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Wardell dated at Newark (Niagara-on the-Lake) on 17 Jul 1797

“The Petition of Michael Wardell for himself and in behalf of His Wife Dorinda and his three Children, Joshua, Hannah, and Elizabeth – Humbly and Respectfully Shews That your Petitioner is desirous to obtain and improve a lot of land in the Town of Newark, for the temporary ease and convenience of his family, and also to obtain for his said Wife and three Children, such portion or portions of land as your Honor in Council may be pleased to grant them; your Petitioner begs leave to state to your Honor in Council, that during the whole American War, he was in His Majesty’s Service in the Corps of Jersey Volunteers, and bore the rank of Serjeant therein; your Petitioner therefore humbly hopes your Honor in Council will weigh the merits of his claim, and grant them such portions of land as Shall be thought fit and expedient – And in duty bound will pray [Signed] Michael Wardell” Received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Jul 1797. Ordered to stand over till Fulker [sic] is satisfied for his improvement on Lot No—in Gainsboro. Read again in Council on 21 Aug 1797. Ordered recommended for a Town Lot in Newark. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 8]


Ferguson, John

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Ferguson dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 21 Dec 1793

“Most Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is desirous of Building a House in the Town of Newark, and Prays that Lot 156 may be granted to him on the same terms, that Lots are granted to others and your Petioner [sic] as in Duty bound Shall ever Pray—for John Ferguson by [Signed] Robert Kerr” No Executive Council receipt or read date. Ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle Miscellaneous 1788-1795 Petition Number 21]


Ferris, Joshua

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Joshua Farris [Signed Ferris] received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797

“Humbly Sheweth—That your petitioner joined the Royal Standard in the year 1775 on board the [aspia] while lying in New York harbour, – That your Petitioner the year following joined Col DeLancys Corps, and continued to serve in them till the Conclusion of the War—That your Petitioner has been several times sorley wounded, which has disabled him much by losing the use of one of his arms—Your Petitioner has arrived into this Province about three weeks ago—Wherefore your petitioner prays your Honor would be pleased to allow him such a proportion of land as may be consistent with the rules laid down for those who served His Majesty last American war, and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Joshua Ferris” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797 and read the same day. Ordered in consequence of his several services and character 600 acres to be for the Petitioner’s accommodation. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 3, Petition Number 28]

Certificate of Ensign Elijah Vincent dated at West Niagara on 2 May 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Joshua Farris

“I do hereby Certify that Mr Joshua Ferris being known by me from the Commencement of the late war with America that the above mentioned Mr Ferris always supported the character of a Gentleman and Soldier and suffered as much as any person or persons could as to Imprisonment and other persecutions of the like nature – and further that all his connections ware True & Loyal from the time I knew them to his Majesty & Government [Signed] Elijah Vincent Ensn Late Regt Guides & Pioneers. I am knowing to the above Certificate to be the Truth [Signed] Isaac Swayze JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 3, Petition Number 28b]


Fields, Ann (McDonald nee Johnson adopted Fields)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Ann McDonald wife of Allan McDonald of Gainsborough, Yeoman dated at Niagara on 20 Jul 1797

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner is the wife of Allan McDonald of the Township of Newark, Late Serjt in Butlers Rangers, & Daughter of Rebecca Fields & that her Father was a Surgeon in one of the Provincial Regiments in the French war of 1755 – That your Petitioner had three Brothers in His majestys Service during the american war – & that her mothers late Husband George Fields served in Butlers Rangers from the year 1778 to the End of the war – may it therefore please Your Honor to indulge her with a grant of 200 acres of Land and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray – ” Ann McDonald made her mark. “witness T Ridout N. P. The Petitioner has six children” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Jul 1797. Notation: Rebecca Fields on the UE List. Read in the Executive Council on 19 Jan 1802. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as daughter of UE. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 5, Petition Number 144]

Certificate of John Monro, J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ann McDonald

“I John Monro Esquire one of His majestys Justices of the Peace for the District of Niagara Do certify that Ann McDonald the Petitioner is the person she describes herself to be, and has not to my knowledge or belief ever received any Lands, or order for Lands from the Crown—[Signed] John Monro J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 5, Petition Number 144a]

Certificate of John Monro, J. P. dated on 23 Dec 1801 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ann McDonald

“Personally appeared before me, John Monro Esq. one of His majestys Justices of the Peace, Ann McDonald, the within named Petitioner and made oath, that she has never received any Lands or order for Lands from the Crown—Sworn before me this 23d Day of December 1801} [Signed] John Monro J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 5, Petition Number 144a]


Field, Charles

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of James and Charles Field received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Nov 1792

“humbly Sheweth your honour, that your petitioner has served in His Majestys Service on Lake Ontario under the Command of Capn Andrews & Capn Betton and was discharged According to an agreement from General Carleton, and now proposes to settle in this Country. Expect you will grant them the Land as mentioned in his Majestys proclamation, and as in duty bound will for your Honour always pray—[Signed] Jas Field, Charles Field Lott No 102” Received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Nov 1792. Ordered ask if in Newark Town or Township? [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle Miscellaneous 1788-1795 Petition Number 14]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Charles Field dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 1 Jul 1794

“Humbly Sheweth—That your petitioner served his Majesty in the Marine department three years on Lake Ontario, part of which time he was considered as an Artificer, and has been since honourably discharged. Your Petitioner begs leave to inform your Honors that he is become a settler in the Province and has marryed the daughter of a Loyalist and one who served in Col Butler’s Corps of Rangers. Your Petitioner begs leave on the present occasion most humbly to approach your Honors and prays that your Honors would grant him lands agreeably to his Majesty’s loyal Bounty toward his faithful Servants and that your Honors would also indulge him with the favour of locating in right of his wife and as in duty bound he will ever pray—[Signed] Charles Field” Received in the Executive Council Office on 2 Jul 1794 and Read in Council on 8 Jul 1794. Ordered granted one lot. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 1 Petition Number 25]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Charles Field dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 21 Aug 1794

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner served his Majesty in the Navy on Lake Ontario three years and has been honourably discharged from the same. That he is intitled to three hundred acres agreeably to his Majesty’s most gracious bounty toward his faithful servants. Wherefore your Petitioner most humbly requests your Honorable body to make him a grant of the three hundred acres that is his due and as in duty bound he will ever pray [Signed] Charles Field” Received at the Executive Council Office on 22 Aug 1794. No order of Council noted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle Miscellaneous 1788-1795 Petition Number 33]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Charles Fields [signed Field] dated at York (Toronto) on 2 Jul 1799

“Humbly Shews, That your Petitioners late Brother James Field recd a grant from the Honorable Council for Lot No 1 north side of King Street in the Town of York – & that your Petitioner has a frame ready to Erect on sd Lot prays Your Honor will please to order a Deed to issue to yr Petitioner for the same & in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Charles Field” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 Jul 1799 and read in Council on 7 Jul 1799. Ordered recommended for the deed for the within Lot as heir to his brother. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 4, Petition Number 10]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Charles Field of Newark dated at York (Toronto) on 14 Nov 1798

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner is the only Brother & heir of the late James Field, deceased, that his said Brother purchased from a certain Patrick Flanery a Lot on Yonge Street, (No 10 on the west side thereof) on which he has expended £130 New York Cy & upwards—that there are four acres Cleared thereon & a frame put up that a man, employed by his said Brother continues to work on the Lot and go on with the improvements – but having learned the Lot is declared vacant Your Petitioner humbly prays your Honor will be pleased to take his case into consideration & confirm him in a grant thereof or give him further time—and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Charles Field” Received at the Executive Council Office on 16 Nov 1798 and read in Council on 20 Nov 1798. Ordered given to the 1st of January 1799. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 4, Petition Number 44]


Fields, Daniel

Upper Canada Land Petition of Daniel Fields dated at Niagara on 21 Jun 1796

“The Petition of Daniel Field—late a Serjeant in Butlers Corps of Rangers—& now resident in the western District—Respectfully shews—That you Petitioner, since his discharge from the above Corps of Rangers has served seven years as Blacksmith in the Indian Department, western District—That he has a wife & five Children—and that his Father George Fields served during the war in the above mentioned Corps of Rangers—and died in the year 1787—without havg received his Lands or any part of them—That your Petitioner being Heir to his Father, prays your Excellency would be pleased to grant him the Lands due his said Father—and also such further quantity to himself and Family as to your Excellency shall seem meet—your Petitioner having never received more than 200 acres—and as in Duty bound your Petitioner shall ever pray—[Unsigned]. Read in Council on 14 Jul [1796]. Ordered recommended that the lands already granted to the Petitioner may be made up to 500 acres as a Serjeant in Butler’s Rangers and that the 300 acres which his father would have been entitled to had he been alive may be granted to his heirs. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 25]


Field, Eleanor (Morden)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Eleanor Morden, otherwise Field dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 29 Jun 1795

“That your Petitioner is Daughter of the late [blank] Morden & of his wife Anne Morden, Loyalist U. E. and now is wife of Gilbert Field of the Township of Newark—That your Petitioner has never received the 200 acres of Land she presumes persons of her description are entitled to; humbly prays your Excellency will be pleased to grant her the said 200 acres, in any of the vacant Lands of the Province, and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Eleanor Morden, alias Field” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 Jul 1795 and read on 5 Jul. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as the Daughter of a Loyalist. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 70]


Field, Gilbert

Upper Canada Land Petition of Rebecca Field and Gilbert Field dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 2 Jul 1794

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is the Widow of the late George Field who served his Majesty in the last war in Col Butler’s Corps of Rangers. That your Petitioner suffered with her late husband severely in the late Colonies for their loyalty and underwent a thousand difficulties in the first Settlement of this Colony. Your Petitioner Begs leave to represent your Honors—That her late Husband before his desease bequeathed to her all the estate he then had in possession or in expectancy, and ordered her to pay legacies to her Children which she has complyed with. Your Petitioner Begs leave further to respresent to Your Honors that her late husband never obtained more than one hundred acres of land the rest remaining unlocated—She has therefore presumed to approach your Honors on the present occasion and most humbly prays that she may have Lands assigned her in her husbands right and Also in her own as much as Your Honors in your wisdom may see fit and as in duty bound she will ever pray—Your Petitioner Begs leave further to inform your Honors that Her son Gilbert Field has lived with her ever since the death of her late husband, and taken a truly dutiful care of her and her interest—and That he wishes to be included with her in the same petition—He also with his father served in Col Butler’ Corps of Rangers. He never has taken any Lands for himself except what he purchased. He has now a wife and encreasing family. He by me most humbly request your Honor Lots No 35 and 36 in the third concession of the Township of Ancaster and if your Honors shall think him deserving of any further indulgence than his mere right that Lots No 33 and 34 in the fourth concession of said township may be granted to him, and with all gratitude as in duty bound Your Petitioners will ever pray—or such other Lott as may be vacant—[Signed] Rebecca Field, Gilbert Field [both in the same hand]” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 Jul 1794 and read in Council on 4 Jul 1794. Ordered granted two Lots to Gilbert Field and referred to the Surveyor General. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 1 Petition Number 16]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Gilbert Fields dated on 10 Jul 1795

“Humbly Sheweth That your Excellencys petitioner served His Majesty during the American War in the Corps of Rangers commanded by Lieutt Coll Butler, he has a Wife and Three Sons but never drew any Family Lands and as his Father two Brothers and himself early evinced their Loyalty by taking an Active part against the Americans, hopes your Excellency will please to consider him and grant for his Family a proportionable indulgence in Land, as others have received in his situation previous to the dissolution of the Land Board and the lands his wife (Elenor Morden) may be entitled; and your Petitioner will ever Pray [Signed] Gilbert Fields” Received at the Executive Council Office on 10 Jul 1795 and read on 5 Jul [1796]. Ordered answered in the Petition of Eleanor Morden alias Field. Confirmed 8 Oct 1796. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 45]

On a 1792 map of the Front Concession of Niagara Township included in the Upper Canada Land petition of Samuel Street, Gilbt Fields was named on Lot 15. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 162]


Field, James

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of James and Charles Field received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Nov 1792

“humbly Sheweth your honour, that your petitioners has served in His Majestys Service on Lake Ontario under the Command of Capn Andrews & Capn Betton and was discharged According to an agreement from General Carleton, and now proposes to settle in this Country. Expect you will grant them the Land as mentioned in his Majestys proclamation, and as in duty bound will for your Honour always pray—[Signed] Jas Field, Charles Field Lott No 102” Received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Nov 1792. Ordered ask if in Newark Town or Township? [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle Miscellaneous 1788-1795 Petition Number 14]

Upper Canada Land Petition of James Field dated 12 Apr 1794

“humbly sheweth your honours, that your petitioner has aplyed to the board Six months ago for a lot to build a house upon, and received an answer to put his timber upon any Vacant Lot and then apply for a ticket, now his timber is ready and hopes you will grant him the Lot No [number not specified] and as in duty bound will for your honours always pray—” [Unsigned] No order of the Executive Council noted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle Miscellaneous 1788-1795 Petition Number 34]

Upper Canada Land Petition of James Field dated 26 Apr 1794

“Sheweth your honours that your petitioner has Served in his Majestys Service, and hopes you will grant him a Town Lot No 69 and your petitioner as in duty bound will for your honour always Pray” [Unsigned] No order of the Executive Council noted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle Miscellaneous 1788-1795 Petition Number 34c]

Upper Canada Land Petition of James Field dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 10 Jul 1795

“humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner has served His Majesty four Years in the Marine Department & prays yr Excellency for such Portion of Land as Your Excellency may please to grant him and your Petitioner in Duty bound will ever Pray—[Signed] James Field” Received at the Executive Council Office on 10 Jul 1795 and Read in Council on 12 Aug 1795. Ordered to stand over. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 1 Petition Number 26]

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of James Field appended to his previous petition

“Sir it is after a long servitude in His Majesty’s Service, that I have appld for land, and sending in two Certificates to Certify the same, I am informed that somebody has spoke ill of my Character to you, all the Officers that belonged to the Naval Department will Certify my behaivour in the Service being going on Sixteen Years in this Place and never was before a Justice as yet, [save] the Maines of Liquor there was some that made free with my name here about Two Years ago, which is false, after a Servitude of five Years & a half at 2 Different periods as will appear by the Certificates. I shall leave this to your Excellency Consideration whether I am entitled to Land or know I am with with [sic] duty bound your E. H. S. [Signed] James Field” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 1 Petition Number 26b]

Certificate of James Clark and W Baker dated at Niagara on 8 Jul 1795 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Field

“I do certify that the bearer James Fields served His Majesty four Years in the Marine department Lake Ontario between the Years 1779 and 1783 and that he behaved himself for that time, as a good and faithful servant. [Signed] James Clark late Clerk of the Chequar & Naval Storekeeper, W Baker 1st Lt Lake [….] [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 1 Petition Number 26d]

Upper Canada Land Petition of James Field dated at Niagara on 26 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“The Petition of James Field, who has never received any Land [….] served as Clerk to the naval Department on Lake ontario from the year 1779 to 1783. 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 Four Hundred 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 200 acres. Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 Jun 1796. Ordered recommended for 200 acres of land. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 40]

Certificate attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Field

“These are to certify that James Field has served in His Majesty’s service four Years between the years 1779 & 1783 all which time he beheaved himself as becometh and was discharged conformable to agreement from Quebec” [Signed] signature unreadable. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 40a]

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Charles Fields [signed Field] dated at York (Toronto) on 2 Jul 1799

“Humbly Shews, That your Petitioners late Brother James Field recd a grant from the Honorable Council for Lot No 1 north side of King Street in the Town of York – & that your Petitioner has a frame ready to Erect on sd Lot prays Your Honor will please to order a Deed to issue to yr Petitioner for the same & in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Charles Field” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 Jul 1799 and read in Council on 7 Jul 1799. Ordered recommended for the deed for the within Lot as heir to his brother. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 4, Petition Number 10]

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Charles Field of Newark dated at York (Toronto) on 14 Nov 1798

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner is the only Brother & heir of the late James Field, deceased, that his said Brother purchased from a certain Patrick Flanery a Lot on Yonge Street, (No 10 on the west side thereof) on which he has expended £130 New York Cy & upwards—that there are four acres Cleared thereon & a frame put up that a man, employed by his said Brother continues to work on the Lot and go on with the improvements – but having learned the Lot is declared vacant Your Petitioner humbly prays your Honor will be pleased to take his case into consideration & confirm him in a grant thereof or give him further time—and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Charles Field” Received at the Executive Council Office on 16 Nov 1798 and read in Council on 20 Nov 1798. Ordered given to the 1st of January 1799. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 4, Petition Number 44]


Fields, Nathaniel

On a 1792 map of the Front Concession of Niagara Township included in the Upper Canada Land petition of Samuel Street, Nathl Fields was named on Lot 18. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 162]


Field, Rebecca

Upper Canada Land Petition of Rebecca Field and Gilbert Field dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 2 Jul 1794

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is the Widow of the late George Field who served his Majesty in the last war in Col Butler’s Corps of Rangers. That your Petitioner suffered with her late husband severely in the late Colonies for their loyalty and underwent a thousand difficulties in the first Settlement of this Colony. Your Petitioner Begs leave to represent your Honors—That her late Husband before his desease bequeathed to her all the estate he then had in possession or in expectancy, and ordered her to pay legacies to her Children which she has complyed with. Your Petitioner Begs leave further to respresent to Your Honors that her late husband never obtained more than one hundred acres of land the rest remaining unlocated—She has therefore presumed to approach your Honors on the present occasion and most humbly prays that she may have Lands assigned her in her husbands right and Also in her own as much as Your Honors in your wisdom may see fit and as in duty bound she will ever pray—Your Petitioner Begs leave further to inform your Honors that Her son Gilbert Field has lived with her ever since the death of her late husband, and taken a truly dutiful care of her and her interest—and That he wishes to be included with her in the same petitioner—He also with his father served in Col Butler’ Corps of Rangers. He never has taken any Lands for himself except what he purchased. He has now a wife and encreasing family. He by me most humbly request your Honor Lots No 35 and 36 in the third concession of the Township of Ancaster and if your Honors shall think him deserving of any further indulgence than his mere right that Lots No 33 and 34 in the fourth concession of said township may be granted to him, and with all gratitude as in duty bound Your Petitioners will ever pray—or such other Lott as may be vacant—[Signed] Rebecca Field, Gilbert Field [both in the same hand]” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 Jul 1794 and read in Council on 4 Jul 1794. Ordered granted two Lots to Gilbert Field and referred to the Surveyor General. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 1 Petition Number 16]

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Templeton of Newark dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 24 Oct 1797

“Humbly sheweth That your petitioner is the Daughter of Henry Johnson of the Township of Newark – on the road to Queenstown, and granddaughter of Mrs Rebecca Fields, returned a Loyalist U. E. That your Petitioner is married and having never received any Lands prays your Honor would be pleased to grant her 200 Acres, and your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Mary Templeton” Received at the Executive Council Office on 16 Nov 1797 and read in Council on 5 Apr 1798. Ordered 200 acres as the daughter of a U. E. Loyalist. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “T” Bundle 4, Petition Number 43]


Fisher, Elizabeth (Overholt)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Elizabeth Fisher dated on 9 Jul 1800

“Humbly Sheweth, That your petitioner is the Daughter of Staats Overhault a UE Loyalist; and is married to Jacob Fisher, but never received any Lands—wherefore Prays your Excellency to allow her a grant of 200 acres to put her on a footing with others of her description; and as in duty bound will ever pray—Elizabeth Fisher [by] [Signed] Jacob fisher” Received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Jun 1800 and read in Council on 19 Aug 1800. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as a daughter of UE if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 5, Petition Number 31]

Certificate of Robert Nelles, J. P. dated on 9 Jul 1800 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Elizabeth Fisher

“Niagara District County of Lincoln} Before me Robt Nelles Esqr appeared Elisabeth Fisher being Duly Sworn Deposed and Sayeth That she never has Received any Lands from the Crown nor a grant for any nor has She Ever Petitioned for any before this, and farther the Deponant Sayeth not—Taken and Sworn before me this 9th Day of July 1800 [Signed] Robt Nelles JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 5, Petition Number 31]

Certificate dated at York (Toronto) on 12 Jun 1800 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Elizabeth Fisher

“I hereby certify that the wife of Jacob Fisher is the Daughter of Staats Overholt a UE & that She has never received any Lands [Signed] Francis St[ufuteseuses]” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 5, Petition Number 31b]


Fisher, Hermanus

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Hermanus Fisher of Clinton, Yeoman received at the Executive Council Office on 3 Jul 1806

“Humbly sheweth, That your Petitioner has resided near seven years in the Province, and has a wife and four Children. That he has property to the amount of Two Hundred Pounds Provincial Currency — that he has taken the oath of allegiance and is desirous to occupy and improve a vacant Lot of Land of the Crown: That he is prepared and undertakes in case his petition shall be favorably answered, to pay with three days from the date of your Honors order in Council, into the Hands of His Majestys 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 Generals Receipt for such fees: And your Petitioner will also attend the Secretary of the Province, within twenty one Days from the date of your Honors order in Council to take out such Deed. Wherefore your Petitioner prays that your Honor may be pleased to grant him 200 acres of the waste Lands of the Crown under the Regulations acted upon the 6 July 1804 – & as in duty bound he will ever pray — [Signed] Herman Fisher” Received at the Executive Council Office on 3 Jul 1806. Received at the President’s Office, York on 8 Jul 1806. Ordered referred to the Executive Council by order of the President. Read in Council on 8 Jul 1806. Ordered the petitioner Hermanus Fisher recommended for a grant of two hundred acres of land under the Regulation acted upon the 6th July 1804. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 8, Petition Number 11]

Receipt issued at the Receiver General’s Office on 8 July 1806 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Hermanus Fisher

“No. 242 Hermanus Fisher has paid into this Office Six Pounds nineteen Shillings and Four Pence Sterling, being the Patent Fee, according to the Regulation of the 9th January, 1804, acted upon the 6th July, 1804, for a Grant of Two Hundred Acres of Land, ordered him in Council of this date and number; also One Pound four Shillings and Nine Pence Sterling, for the Surveying Fees thereon. [Signed] Peter Russell, Receiver General. To The Clerk of the Executive Council.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 8, Petition Number 11b]


Fisher, Jacob

Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Fisher of Clinton dated at York (Toronto) on 19 Aug 1800

“Humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner is the Eldest Son of William Fisher late of the above named Township, who came into the Province fifteen years ago, and died about Six Years since, leaving your Petitioner, (who is a married man & having a wife & two Children) in charge of his Family – consisting of your Petitioner’s mother – a younger Brother now about 14 years of age, and one Sister, who live with your Petitioner on Lot No 23 in the 2nd Concession of the aforesaid Township containing One Hundred acres & for which a Patent lies in the Secretarys office, in the name of his Father – William Fisher. Your Petitioner therefore humbly prays your Excellency that a Deed may issue to him for the aforesaid Lot No 23 – as heir of his father – and that the annexed Land Board certificate to himself for 200 acres in the same township may be confirmed – to which your Petitioner neglected to obtain the Surveyors assignment – and your petitioner as in duty bound shall ever pray—[Signed] Jacob fisher” Received at the Executive Council Office on 19 Aug 1800 and read in Council on 19 Aug 1800. Ordered recommended that the deed issue to William Fisher for No. 23 – 2nd Concession of Clinton having been described and that a patent issue to Jacob Fisher for 22 and 23 in the 7th Concession of Clinton under Old Regulations. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 5, Petition Number 54]

Land Board Certificate issued to Jacob Fisher dated on 9 Feb 1791 (using a pre-printed form with fill-ins)

“The Bearer Jacob Fisher having on the 9th day of February 1791 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 5 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 9th day of February one thousand seven hundred and Ninety one To Augustus Jones Acting Surveyor General for the District of Nassau. [Signed] J. Butler, Nathl Pettit, R. Hamilton” Certificate of the Acting Surveyor: “I Assign to the Bearer Jacob Fisher the Lot No 22 & 23 in 7th Concessn in the Township of No 5 in the District of Nassau containing Two Hundred Acres twenty Chains by fifty each.” Read in the Executive Council on 11 May 1797. No order issued. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 5, Petition Number 54c]


Fisher, Margaret (Bemer)

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Margaret Beamer [signed Bemer] received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Jun 1797

“Humbly Sheweth – That your petitioner is daughter of George Fisher who is entered on the UE List for the Home District, and married to Philip Beamer—and having never drawn any Lands—prays your Honor to allow her a grant of the waste Lands of the Crown as the Daughter of a U. E. and your petitioner as in duty bound will pray – for Margaret Bemer [Signed] Philip Bemer” Received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Jun 1797 and read in Council on 28 Jun 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as daughter of UE. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 4, Petition Number 91]


Fisher, Mary

Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Fisher, Widow dated at 30 Mile Creek Clinton Township on 3 May 1796

“Humbly Sheweth—That Your Petitioner is the Widow of the late William Fisher who Lived in the Now State of New Jersey and was Comfortably Settled, and in a Good Way of Living, but could not comply with the Laws &c that they made in the Time of the Late War between Great Brittain and America on Account of which he was prosecuted, Imprisoned, and Fined, and otherwise Distressed and reduced so in his Circumstances, that he could Live there no Longer and that in the Year 1788, he removed Himself into this Province with Your Petitioner his Wife and Eight Children, and that he Died in the Year 1789 And left Your Petitioner with the said Eight Children, all small (Excepting one Son) of Sixteen Years of Age, who at the Time of her Husbands Death was taken Sick and Lame and continued nearly Three Years in that Condition on Account of which Misfortune Your Petitioner was Greatly Distressed and was Obliged to bind out some of her Children and suffer with the Others, And as her said Husband had Obtained only 200 Acres of Land for Himself and Family Your Petitioner Most Humbly prays that Your Excellency will Grant her such a further Allotment of Land in Addition to what was Granted to her said Husband as You in Your Wisdom may think her Condition Merrits, And Your Petitioner as in Duty bound will Ever Pray [Signed] Mary Fisher Widow” Received at the Executive Council Office on 24 May 1796 and read in Council on 11 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended for family lands being 250 acres if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 17]

Certificate of Nathaniel Pettit dated on 20 May 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Fisher

“These Do certifie that I was aquanted with the above Pettitioner and her Late Husband both in the state of New jersey and in this provence and that I Know that the facts Sett forth in her Pettition is the Truth and that I know her to be a Verry Industress woman and that She hath Ever since her husband’s Death Conducted herself well and I think worthy of his majestyes bounty. Certified by [Signed] Nathl Pettit” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 17a]


Fitzgerald, Anna (later Cain)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Anna Cain dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 16 Mar 1796

“The petitioner Anna Cain who is Capable of Cultivating and has been severel years in this Country and nether her or her former Husband James fitzGeralds who had served in the Armey has ever Reced any Land of the Crown, and your Honors Humble petitioner prayeth that your Honor and the Honorable will be pleased to grant unto your memorelest such portion of the wast Land of the Crown as you Shall think proper and your memorelest will ever pray” Anna Cain made her mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 16 Mar 1797 and read in Council on 17 Mar 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 2, Petition Number 93]


Fitzgerald, James

Upper Canada Land Petition of James Fitzgerald dated 29 Sep 1793

“Sheweth That your Petitioner desirous to improve on a vacant Lot in the Town of Newark—prays you will please to cede to him Lot No 57 which your Petitioner applyed for the last land board, and your Petitioner will ever pray [Signed] James Fitzgerald” Read in the Executive Council on 30 Nov 1793. Ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle Miscellaneous 1788-1795 Petition Number 52]