Mentioned in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Angus McDonell (signed Macdonell) received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Aug 1797
“Most humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner as Attorney at law having been employed by several of His Majestys Subjects to file Caveats in the Secretary’s office to prevent the Patents for certain tracts of land from issuing until your Honors’ pleasure thereon should be had in Council, finds himself as well as his clients materially aggrieved by the Conduct of the said Secretary who issued such Deeds without any manner of regard to the Caveats filed by your Petitioner to the following Cases your Petitioner more particularly alludes—Oliver Gahagan, against James Ramsay—Donald McDonald against Thomas Hind—That your Petitioner finds himself further compelled to resort to your Honor for Justice in a case more immediately concerning himself and which he finds cannot be procured without your Honors intersession. Your Petitioner being an U. E. Loyalist has the Pledge of the Royal promise to receive Deeds for Lands granted to him by the Crown gratus notwithstanding which, the Secretary of the province detains your Petitioner’s Deed for a Lot of Ground in the Town of Newark under pretence of his being authorized to collect Fees thereon. Wherefore your Petitioner prays that your Honor will cause Justice to be done to him and as in duty bound he will ever pray &c. [Signed] A Macdonell” Received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Aug 1797. Ordered the two first charges are unfounded: That relative to the Petitioner’s own deed to stand over for consideration. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Miscellaneous 1788-1798, Petition Number 86]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Hitchcock read in the Executive Council on 28 Jun 1794
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner has been long settled in this Province, and married the Daughter of Jacob Ball who served during the late War in Sr John Johnsons Corps. Your Petitioner therefore prays yr Excellency, and the Honbe Council will grant him a Gore of Land, between the Sixteen Mile Creek and the Mud Creek—crossing the 20 Mile Creek adjoining the east side of the Arrowcane containing Four hundred Acres. And yr Petitioner as in duty bound will ever Pray. [Signed] John Hitchock” Read in the Executive Council on 28 Jun 1794. Ordered the prayer of the petition granted and referred to the Surveyor General. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 1, Petition Number 22]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Hitchcock son of Miles Hitchcock a Loyalist U. E. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 9 Jul 1795
“Humbly sheweth- That your Petitioner is married and has a Family, that he has received two Hundred acres of Land, which he has improved; Your Petitioner humbly hopes it may not be deemed unreasonable to pray Your Excellency would be pleased to grant him a small addition thereto—And as in Duty bound Your Petitioner will ever pray [Signed] John Hitchcock” Received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Jul 1795. Ordered not recommended. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 59]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Chrysler dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 20 Feb 1797
“Most humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner has always been a Loyalist, and is the Son of Henry Chrysler who served his late Majesty at the Capture of this Province from the French—That your Petitioner has resided twelve years in the Province and is married to the Daughter of a Loyalist by whom he has four children living as the annexed Certificate thereof sheweth—That your Petitioner has taken the oath of allegiance repeatedly once before Major Campbell & once before the Land Board on its first Establishment—Wherefore Your Petitioner prays that your Honor may direct the Common proportion of Lands for himself, his wife, and family to be assigned to your Petitioner , neither he nor they having as yet received any, and as in duty bound he will ever pray &c—[Signed] John Chrysler” Received at the Executive Council Office on 26 Feb 1797 and read in Council on 28 Mar 1797. Petitioner’s wife recommended for 200 acres as U. E. Later not of Surveyor General J. Baley: “Deed for 200 acres No 14, 7th Conn Darlington has been paid for in the name of Martha Hitchcock Daur of Miles Hitchcock. [Signed] J. Baley Survr Gen. Petitioner himself not privileged J. B. S G. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 2 Petition Number 110b]
Deposition of Miles Hitchcock dated at Niagara on 20 Feb 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Chrysler
“Personally came before me George Forsyth, Esquire, one of His Majesty’s Justices of the peace, Miles Hitchcock who being duly sworn made oath that John Chrysler is married to Martha the daughter of this Deponent (said Deponent being an U. E. Loyalist) that the said John Chrisler [sic] came into this province before the year 1789 is married and has four children now living by his Wife the said Martha. Sworn before me at Niagara this 20th February 1797—[Signed] Milse hitchcock, Geo. Forsyth JP.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 2 Petition Number 110]
Notes attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Chrysler
“John Crysler Son of Henry 200 as Location in Darlington O. C. 21st Aug 1797—no descrip—wishes to take out the order & pay the fees. John Chrysler 200 as in right of his Wife the Daughter of a UE—location in Darlington—no deed—the O. C. wanting [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 2 Petition Number 110a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Miles Hitchcock dated at Newark on 15 Jul 1794
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner has a wife & three children living with him & has been upwards of Eight years in the Province. Humbly prays that your Excellency would be pleased to grant him Lots No 14 & 15 on the 20 mile Creek—and as in Duty Bound your Petitioner shall ever pray—’ [Unsigned] Received on 15 Jul 1794 and read in Council on 15 Jul. Ordered referred to the Surveyor General. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 1, Petition Number 45]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Miles Hitchcock dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 9 Jul 1795
“Humbly sheweth, That your Petitioner came into this Province in the year 1786 with his Family consisting of a wife and Six Children for whom he has received Six Hundred acres of Land; That your Petitioner resided at New York at the beginning of the american War, and took an active and decided part in favor & support of his Majesty’s Government, that he continued at New York during the war, and was employed in His Majesty’s Service. That your Petitioner has suffered much in his Health from the severity of the winters in the Execution of his Services, and in his property from the assistance he afforded to Loyalists in distress. Humbly hopes therefore that his attachment to His Sovereign, (as by the annexed Certificate may appear) will recommend him to Your Excellency’s benevolence, and prays that a small addition to the Lands he received as a settler may be granted him, And your Petitioner as in Duty bound—will ever pray [Signed] Miles Hitchcock” Received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Jul 1796. Ordered not recommended. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 7]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Daniel Hixon dated at Niagara on 17 Jul 1797
“Humbly shews: That your Petitioner is a House Joiner & Carpenter and came to this Province from the Jersies in July 1796—that he is a Grandson of Joseph Corwine who lives in Stamford, and son of Naomi Johnson, wife of Henry Johnson who lives on the Road from Newark to Queenstown—That your Petitioner being desirous of becoming a bona fide settler in the Province and having never received any Lands, humbly prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 200 acres of Land, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Daniel Hixon” Received at the Executive Council Office on 21 Aug 1797 and read the same day. Ordered recommended for 200 acres on producing a character from Mr. Cooper. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 44]
Certificate of William Dickson, J. P. dated on 14 Jul 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Daniel Hixon
“I do hereby Certify that Daniel Hixon 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 14th July 1797 [Signed] William Dickson, J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 44]
Certificate of Nathaniel Pettit dated on 5 Sep 1795 (Upper Canada Land Petition missing)
“The bearer Henry Hixon twenty 2 years of Age Born in New Jersey professing the Christian Religion and by trade a farmer having been this day examined by me and taken the oaths prescribed by law, is recommended for a location of two hundred acres of land within this district provided it does not appear from the surveyor’s books that he has had any prior grant of land in any district of this province. Given under my hand this 5 Sep 1795. To the Deputy Surveyor. [Signed] Nathl Pettit” Read in Council on 14 Jul 1796. Ordered 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 18]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Nathan Hixson of Stamford – Yeoman
“Humbly shews – That he has been in the Province 15 Years – that he is now in a Situation to Cultivate Land & prays Yr Excellency will please to grant him 200 Acres & Petitioner in duty bound will ever pray – [Signed] Nathan Hixson” Received at the Executive Council Office on 18 May 1800 and read in Council on 18 May 1802. Ordered recommended for 200 acres on the usual terms. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 5, Petition Number 38a]
Transfer from Ebenezer Hodges to Samuel Street Sr. dated on 2 Nov 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Samuel Street
“Know all men by these presents that I Ebenezer Hodges of the Home District in the Province of Upper Canada, am held and firmly bound unto Samuel Street Esqr of Queenston in the District and Province aforesaid in the sum of one Hundred pounds lawful money of this Province aforesaid, for the true and faithful payment whereof, I bind and oblige myself, my heirs executors and administrators to him the said Samuel Street, his heirs or assigns—Now the condition of this obligation is such that whereas I the above bounden Ebenezer Hodges have lodged in the surveyor Generals office, a Certificate whereby I the above bounden Edmond Hodges am entitled to receive from the Government of this province aforesaid a Patent for Lot Number seven in the second Concession of the Township of Gainsborough in the Home District and province aforesaid, containing Two Hundred acres of Land, more or less. – And whereas I the above bounden Ebenezer Hodges have this day agreed to this Land to the aforesaid Samuel Street for Twenty pounds New york Currency, the receipt whereof I the above bounden Ebenezer Hodges do acknowledge and therewith am Content and satisfied – therefore if I the above bounden Edmond Hodges shall on or before the first day of March next ensuing the date hereof, by a Legal Deed or Writing to be by him the said Samuel Street procured, Transfer and assign to the aforesaid Samuel Street, his heirs or assigns such right, such right, Title and Deed as shall be given to me the above bounden Ebenezer Hodges, by Government for the aforesaid Two Hundred acres of Land, so that the same shall be possessed, and held by him the aforesaid Samuel Street, his heirs or assigns, without Let, hindrance or molestation of any sort whatsoever, then shall this bond be null & void, else it shall stand and remain in full force and Virtue—In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal at Queenston this Second day of November in the year of our Lord one Thousand seven hundred and Ninety six—[Signed] Ebenezer Hodges. Sealed & Delivered In the presence of us} Thomas Clark, S. Street Jur” Cover page: “Ebenezer Hodges to Samuel Street Esqr} Bond to Convey 200 acres Land in the Township of Gainsborough 2d November 1796” Read in the Executive Council on 6 Jul 1798. Ordered transfer permitted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 16dd]
Notation attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Samuel Street
“Edmond Hodges – Lot No 6} Ebenezer Hodges – Lot No 7} 2nd Concessn Gainsborough 200 acres each—15 Jun 1796 [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 16hh]
Named in a schedule of lands transferred to Samuel Street dated on 5 Jul 1798 attached to his Upper Canada Land Petition
[Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 16a]
Ebenr Hodges 200 acres in Gainsborough
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Edmund Hodges circa 1794-5
“Humbly Sheweth To your Excellency that your petitioner intends by your permission to become a settler in this province and carry on the business of making Bricks, the best situation he can find for that purpose happens to be on Land reserved for Government now in the possession of Mr Street laying about half a mile from Mr Swazie’s joining the Lake. your petitioner therefor prays your Excellency will grant him a Lease for a few years of three or four acres of Land or as much as is sufficient for him to carry on his business, your petitioner also prays your Excellency will grant him a pass to bring as early as possible his Family and affects which consists of different kinds of Goods or Merchanize which he has now on hand—Your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray. [Unsigned] No Executive Council dates inscribed. Noted “inadmissible” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 1, Petition Number 55]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Edmund Hodges read in the Executive Council on 8 Oct 1796
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner with his family consisting of a Wife and Nine Children came into this Settlement about four years agone with an intention of settling within the British Government, Your Petitioner served during the french War in the Provincial Troops. Your Petitioner has drawn Two hundred acres of Land, therefore Humbly Prays that his and family’s situation may be taken into consideration, and that an additional quantity may be allowed them of the waste lands of the Crown such quantity as is usual to people of their description or such other quantity as to your Honor may appear meet and Your Petitioner will as in duty Bound Ever Pray” [Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 8 Oct 1796. Ordered the petitioner having already received the King’s bounty it is not judged expeditious at present to add to it. His sons when of age may have land for asking for them. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 34]
Report of John Elmsley dated on 23 Apr 1799 (no petition attached)
“It appearing that Edmund Hodge who is largely indebted to the Crown is possessed by purchase of a Lot No 6 in part of Gainsboro of which no Deed has yet issued, Recommend that the sd Lot be sold & the money owing therefore applied in discharge of the Debt [Initialled] JE 27th April [Signed] Peter Russell” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 4, Petition Number 168]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of John McKay [signed MacKay] of Newark, Merchant dated at York (Toronto) on 21 Apr 1799
“Humbly Sheweth – That your Petitioner having acquired from Edmund Hodge, who purchased from Serjeant George Campbell two Hundred and Fifty Acres of Land upon the Plan commonly called Chippewa Creek, and Satisfied the said Campbell for the Same, he humbly prays to be confirmed in the Estate so purchased by your Honors Order in Council authorizing the Title Deed of the said Land to issue in your Petitioners name and your Petitioner as in duty will ever pray &c – [Signed] John MacKay” Received at the Executive Council Office on 23 Apr 1799 and read in Council the same day. Ordered referred to the Commissioner. Ordered it appears that the Land is in Hodge, who is largely indebted to the Crown, and no conveyance from Hodge to McKay. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 4, Petition Number 240]
Transfer from Edmond Hodges to Samuel Street Sr. dated on 3 Apr 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Samuel Street
“Know all Men by these presents that I Edmond Hodges of the Home District in the Province of Upper Canada, am held and firmly bound unto Samuel Street Esquire of Queenston in the District and Province aforesaid in the sum of one Hundred pounds lawful Money of this Province for the true and faithful payment whereof, I bind myself, my heirs, executors and administrators to him the said Samuel Street his heirs and assigns—Now the condition of this obligation is such that whereas I the above bounden Edmond Hodges have lodged at the Surveyor Generals office a Certificate where by I the above bounden Edmond Hodges am entitled to receive from the Government of this province a Patent for Lot number six in the second concession of the Township of Gainsborough in the Home District aforesaid, containing Two Hundred acres of Land, more or less. – And whereas I the above bounden Edmond Hodges have this day agreed to sell the aforesaid Lot of Land to the aforesaid Samuel Street for Twenty pounds New York Currency, the receipt whereof I the above bound Edmond Hodges do acknowledge and therewith am content and satisfied – Therefore if I the above bounden Edmond Hodges shall on or before the first day of March next ensuing the date hereof, by a Legal Deed or writing to be by him the aforesaid Samuel Street procured Transfer and assign to the aforesaid Samuel Street, his heirs or assigns such right, Title and Deed as shall be given to me the above bounden Edmond Hodges, by Government for the aforesaid Two Hundred acres of Land, so that the same shall be possessed, and held by him the aforesaid Samuel Street his heirs or assigns, without let, hindrance or molestation of any sort whatsoever, then shall this bond be null and void, else it shall stand and remain in full force and virtue—In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal at Queenston in the Province of Upper Canada this Third day of November in the thirty sixth year of the Reign of our sovereign Lord the King, and in the year of our Lord one Thousand seven hundred and Ninety six—[Signed] Edmond Hodges. Sealed & Delivered In the presence of us} Chles Segaint, S. Street Jur” “Edmond Hodges to Samuel Street} Bond & Convey – 200 acres Land in the Township of Gainsborough” Read in the Executive Council on 8 Nov 1796. Ordered transfer permitted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 16l]
Notation attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Samuel Street
“Edmond Hodges – Lot No 6} Ebenezer Hodges – Lot No 7} 2nd Concessn Gainsborough 200 acres each—15 Jun 1796 [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 16hh]
Named in a schedule of lands transferred to Samuel Street dated on 5 Jul 1798 attached to his Upper Canada Land Petition
[Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 16a]
Edmd Hodges 200 acres in Gainsborough
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.
Gilbert Hodges – Full Fees 200 acres in Wainfleet Township [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 4, Petition Number 117a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Hodgkinson [signed Hogkisson] of Clinton dated on 27 Apr 1797
“Humbly shews – That your Petitioner is married to Sarah the Daughter of Robert Spencer a Loyalist U. E. – also having never received the King’s Bounty, to persons of her Description; your Petitioner humbly prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 200 acres of Land in his wifes behalf and, your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] John Hogkinsson” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797 and read in Council on 2 May 1797. Ordered 200 acres to the wife of the Petitioner the daughter of a Loyalist if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 32]
Upper Canada Land Petition of William Hodgkinson (signed Hogkinson) of the Township of Grantham, late a Private in Butler’s Rangers dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the- Lake) on 18 Aug 1795
“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner has a wife and Two Children, that he has received 200 acres of Land, whereon he lives, & humbly prays your Excellency will be pleased to grant him the 100 acres remaining due to him as a discharged soldier and a small addition thereto for his Family—& your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—Wm Hogkinson” Received at the Executive Council Office on 19 Aug 1795 and read in Council on 5 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended for the 100 acres in addition on producing his discharge unless he has already received them. Read again in Council on 17 Mar 1808 and commanded that a deed to issue to the petitioner for the 150 acres of land which he has located as a military claimant. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 19]
Order in Council dated on 8 Oct 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Hodgkinson
“O. C. 8 October 1796 William Hodgkinson—100 acres to complete his military Lands & 50 acres family Lands—Location in Beverly—Query if privileged. Privileged MC [Signed] John McGill JP. P. P. A 8th March 1808. The order in Council not yet issued—but only the warrant of Survey (No 377) to authorize the location” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 19a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of William Hodgkinson dated at Niagara on 20 May 1796
“The Petition of William Hodgkinson—late a Private in Butlers Rangers—Respectfully shews, That your Petitioner has received 200 acres of Land only which are in the Township of Grantham and that his wife the Daughter of James Jones of the said Corps—has not received any—Prays your Excelly would be pleased to grant him an additional 100 acres & 200 acres to his wife as a discharged Soldier & a Daughter of a Loyalist U. E. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 12 Jul. Ordered discharge and certificate wanted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 63]
Certificate of Benjamin Pawling and Jesse Pawling dated in the Home District on 9 Oct 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Hodgkinson
“This is to Certify that Mary Hodgkinson the the [sic] Wife of William Hodgekinson is the Daughter of A Loyalist U. E. and that Her Father and Husband were both in his Majesty’s Service in Lt Coln John Butlers Corps and that they had one child before the year 1787 they likewise were settlers in this District since the Year 1784. [Signed] Benjm Pawling, Jesse Pawling” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 63c]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Ross of Humberstone dated at York on 9 Mar 1801
“Humbly sheweth That Your Petitioner has been three years in the Province, & has been married four years to a Sister of Peter hoff of the above mentioned Township—That your Petitioner has a good wagon a yoke of oxen – 2 milch Cows – several Hogs – a Plow, Harrow & other farming utensils – & having never received any Land, your Petitioner humbly prays your Excellency for the grant of a Lot on Dundas Street, for actual Settlement and your Petitioner as in Duty bound shall ever pray—[Signed] Johannes Ross” Received at the Executive Council Office on 10 Mar 1801. Ordered recommended for a lot on Dundas Street. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 5, Petition Number 8]
Upper Canada Land Petition of William Hoff dated at Niagara on 11 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“The Petition of William Hoff, from Ulster County State of New York, Farmer 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. [Signed] William Hoff” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 May 1796 and read in Council on 12 Jul. Ordered recommended for 200 acres if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 28]
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.
William Hoff – Full Fees 200 acres in Oxford Township [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 4, Petition Number 117m]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of James Huftaling [sic] Received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Sep 1796
“Most Humbly Sheweth That Your Memorialist Having Served During the Last War in America, & having Lost his Property in The Late War By adhering to the British. Wishes To take a grant of Land on the River Humber at York if shewed a Vacancy of Land on the River & Means to Bring his His [sic] Family In this Fall to Settle in the Province & most Humbly Prayeth that the Grant May Be Made out as Soon as Possible that he may have time to fetch His Family in” James Hufftaling made his mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Sep 1796. Ordered certificated wanted of the petitioner’s character. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 41]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Hoghtallin dated on 22 Oct 1796
“That your Petitioner served as a Private Soldier in Butlers late Rangers during the late American War therefore Humbly Prays your Honor to be pleased to Grant him Three hundred Acres of land, & a Town lott in the Town of Newark—Your Petitioner further begs leave to say that your Petitioners Son William Hoghtallin was taken Prisoner by the Americans during the late War, he belonging to Brants Volunteers—was taken and hung. Your Petitioner Prays your Honor to take this into Consideration and Prays that an allowance may be made him as to his lands & Your Petitioner Will Ever Pray [Signed] James Hoghtellin” Received at the Executive Council Office on 28 Sep 1796. Ordered discharge wanted. To be ordered 300 acres if not granted before and a Town Lot in the Town of Newark. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 78a]
Certificate of Ralfe Clench dated on22 Oct 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Hoghtallin
“James Hoghtalland served in Butlers Rangers during the late American War [Signed] Ralfe Clench Lt late Rangers” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 78]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Houghdelane [sic] dated at Niagara on 8 Jany 1797
“Humbly Sheweth- That your petitioner served in Colonel Butlers Rangers during the whole of the American War, and underwent many hardships during his servitude.- That your petitioners son likewise served in Captn Brants Volunteers, and was in several severe engagements- was afterwards taken prisoner and hung by the Americans- That your petitioner being far advanced in age, and infirmities, and deprived of the support of his Son, prays your Honor would be pleased for to take his long Services, and helpless situation into Consideration and grant him the proportion of Land his Son would be entitled to, if living- and your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—James Houghdelane made his mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 8 Jan 1797 and read in Council on 28 Mar 1797. Ordered not recommended. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 131]
Certificate of Bernard Frey, Captain of Butler’s Rangers attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Houghdelane
“This is to Certify that William Hoghtaling has Served his Majesty in the late War between England and Amirica under Command of Capt Brant [Signed] Bernard Frey Capt. Late Corps Rangers” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 131a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Martin Holder of the Township of Willoughby, County of Lincoln, District of Niagara dated at York (Toronto) on 27 Sep 1800
“humbly sheweth—That your Excellency’s Petitioner has been for twenty months past settled in this Province, has taken & subscribed the oath of Allegiance required by Law—That he is in circumstance to cultivate lands & has never received Any from the Crown. Wherefore your Excellency’s Petitioner prays that he may receive an allottment of 800 acres (on Yonge Street, or Dundas Street) under such conditions, limitations & restrictions as to your Excellency may appear meet, & as in duty bound your Petitioner will ever pray [Signed] Martin Golder [sic]” Received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Sep 1800 and read in Council on 30 Sep 1800. Ordered not recommended. Earlier order crossed out: Received 1 Sep 1800. It appearing that the Petitioner is in a condition to cultivated lands, recommended for 200 acres subject to the settling duties. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 5, Petition Number 53]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Martin Holder of Willoughby – Farmer dated at York (Toronto) on 31 Aug 1801
“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner has been upwards of two years in the Province with his family – and having never received any Land is desirous to obtain one of the vacant lots of the Crown. That your Petitioner has a yoke of oxen—Two cows – Hogs – and other property – and wishing to settle in Markham – humbly prays Your excellency would be pleased to grant him 200 acres in that Township for immediate Settlement – and as in duty bound your petitioner shall ever pray [Signed] Martin Golder [sic]” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 5, Petition Number 78a]
Certificate of Samuel Street, J. P. dated on 25 Aug 1801 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Martin Holder
“The bearer Martin Holder (a German) is a very industrious, sober man; he came into the Province upwards of two and a half Years ago with his wife; has four head of Horn Cattle and other property (to appearances) to the value of between one and two Hundred pounds NYC and is desirous of Settling on Lands in this Province—Grove 25th Augst 1801 [Signed] Saml Street J. P.” Received at the Lieutenant Governor’s Office on 1 Sep 1801. Ordered referred to the Executive Council. Read in Council on 1 Sep 1801. Ordered it appearing that the Petitioner is in a condition to cultivate land, recommended for 200 acres, subject to settling duties. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 5, Petition Number 78]
Included in Return of Persons who have been permitted by His Honor the Administrator to occupy Lands during the Recess of the Council dated at the Surveyor General’s Office on 4 Oct 1796 signed by Acting Surveyor General David W. Smith
1 Sep 1796 John Holloway—a Location
Confirmed in Council on 4 Oct 1796 [Signed] Peter Russell [Upper Canada Land Petitions NAC “P” Bundle 2, Petition Number 9]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Asa Holmes dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 9 Jun 1794
“Humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner that your Petitioner [sic] lived at Greenborough when Gen Burgoyne came with his army to that place. That He accepted the protection which that General proposed to the Inhabitants and was afterward employed by him as an expert a considerable way in the Country. That during his absence his property in groceries and money to the amount of nearly one thousand pounds was plundered by the soldery of the King’s army. That Gen. Burgoyne and Gov. Sheen both promised him indemnification and he did not entertain the least doubt but they would have fulfilled their promises had it not have been for their misfortunes. Your Petitioner begs leave further to represent to your Honors That he has lived ever since under the british government and has frequently done duty in the Militia.—That he has never received any compensation for his losses not even provision and farming utensils usually allowed the loyalists.—That he has now a wife and five children. Your Petitioner begs your Honors would take his case into your wise and serious consideration and you would grant him a location of twelve hundred acres in his own right and also to locate in right of his family agreeably to the usual custom. Three hundred acres of which he wishes to locate opposite the mouth of Beaver Creek on the south side of the Gibbaway [Chippawa] river, and as in duty bound he will ever pray. [Signed] Asa Holmes” Received at the Executive Council Office on 7 Jun 1794. Ordered that the Surveyor General do assign 500 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 1, Petition Number 44]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Asa Holmes, Loyalist dated at Niagara on 14 May 1796
“Repectfully shews That your Petitioner came into Canada in the year 1777 and in the year 1787 had a wife & seven 3 Children tha he has received 500 acres of Land on his own account – prays your Excellency would be pleased to grant him a further Location of […] acres for his wife and Family, she being the Daughter of Nathanl Loomis, a Loyalist U. E. and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray — Niagara 14 May 1796 [Signed] Asa Holmes” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 147]
Certficate of Ralfe Clench attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Asa Holmes
“The Bearer Mrs Betsey Holmes, daughter to Nathaniel Lomis, came into this place in the near 1778, against the year 1787 she had Seven Children, her husband Asa Holmes came into Canada in the year 1777, her Father & Family came into this place at the same time she did. Newark 12th May 1796 [signed] Ralfe Clench [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 147a]
The petition was read in the Executive Council on 12 Jul. “Recommended for 300 Acres to complete the Quantity received to the land he is entitled to for himself, his wife & family lands – if not granted before” gave a wt [Warrant for land] 14 Octr.
Mentioned in a certificate attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Troyer dated at Walsingham in 1797
“State of Faits relative to the Subscribers first settling at Long Point. In the Year of 1790 I went from Fort Erie and explored the Land in the vicinity of Long Point where I found a man had settled by name of Asa Holmes who lived in a Cabin and had cultivated about one Acre of Ground, he had come from Detroit and settled on the Premises, & he was Anxious to leave the Premises place, therefore I bargained with him for his Improvement and paid him £50 NYC. —In the Spring following 1791 I removed my Family (having immediately after purchase put up a House) with an expectation to have no dispute about the Land, as I had applyed to Colonel Hunter when I first came into the Province in 1788 and he told me to explore the Country and wherever I found Land to suit me I should have granted provided it did not interfere with any prior Grants; and immediately after I had purchased the Improvement of Holmes, I reported the same to certain members of the Land Board who were then nominated to Grant Land to applicants as was Generally understood by the Inhabitants, they approved of the purchase and Received permission from John Alavan Esquire to possess the premises. When I removed, there came a man with me named Foryea and settled so near to me that I supposed the Front between us was not sufficient to accommodate both of us he then went about ¾ of a mile below me and made an improvement which has fell on Lot No 22 which he sold to a man named Samuel Brown, and then removed back on the Lot which I occupied and forcibly settled on the same and said he would hold it in dispite of me—After the Land (or Front was Surveyed) I applied by Petition for the Lot, which Petition was given to the Clerk of the Honorable Executive Council but have never received an Answer, notwithstanding I applyed to His Excellency the Governor when he was at Long Point, and he said I should have the Lot. I have expended considerable of Money in improving the Premises, have Erected a Grist Mill Black Smith Forge &c &c and as a man that has ever been obedient to the Laws &c of the Country and a peaceable Citizen, I must refer to the Certificates herewith delivered; and hope the Surveyor General may be perfectly informed of my situation after which have not the least doubt but Justice will done me, as Foryea has made use of every means to have the matter misrepresented and in some [……] has done me much injury notwithstanding I have shewn him the greatest Friendship and in Sickness when his life was despaired of, have taken him into my House and used every means in my Power for his recovery little expecting to receive ingratitude as a compensation [Signed] John Troyer” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “T” Bundle 2, Petition Number 73]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Asa Holmes of Wainfleet dated at Niagara on 17 Jul 1797
“Hunbly sheweth That your Petitioner served His Majesty under General Burgoyne, during the American war, and was frequently employed in secret service; and that his property was destroyed & plundered by the German Troops – when he was absent on such service. That your Petitioner came to this Province in the cease of the late war, and has remained in it ever since, and that he has a family consisting of a wife (the Daughter of a Loyalist) and Eight children born before the year 1789 – That your Petitioner received at Detroit (where he first settled) – 200 acres of Land and was since granted by the Honorable the Council 300 acres, having petitioned for that additional quantity on account of his Services, and the Losses above mentioned, – that he has also been granted 300 acres in addition thereto said to complete the quantity received, to the Land he is entitled to for himself, his wife and family Lands – making in the whole—800 Acres – Your Petitioner therefore humbly begs to represent to your Honor, there may have been some mistake in the above quantity, owing to his petition not having been properly stated – as he, presuming, that the Honle Council, intending his personal grant to be 500 acres; For his family Lands 450; and to his wife 200; making in all 1150 acres – there should yet remain for him to receive 350 acres—Your Petitioner therefore humbly prays your Honor would be pleased to revise the pretensions of your Petitioner, and to allow him such further grant as to your Honor may seem meet—and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] Asa Holmes” Added note: “The Petitioner served as a volunteer and never received any pay—” Read in the Executive Council on 1 Aug 1797. Ordered recommended for 50 acres to complete family lands. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 165]
Certificate of David McFall dated at Newark on 12 Jul 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Asa Holmes
“I do hereby certify that the property of Asa Holmes, a Loyalist, was destroyed & plundered in his absence, by the German Troops under General Redeisel during the American war, and that a Guard was afterwards placed by the order of General Burgoyne, to preserve what remained of the Petitioners property [Signed] David McFall” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 165b]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of William McDonald [sic] of Caistor dated at Newark on 14 Dec 1796
“Humbly shews That your Petitioner is son of Serjt McDonald [sic] late of Butlers- and is married to Elizabeth, a Daughter of Asa Holmes a Loyalist – that having never received any Land your Petitioner prays your Honor would be pleased to [give] to him 200 acres- also 200 acres in right of his wife, and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—” Wm. McDonald made his mark. “witness T Ridout N. P.” Received at the Executive Council Office on 17 Mar 1797 and read in Council on 7 Apr 1797. Ordered Petitioner recommended for 200 acres as UE but must produce proofs as to his wife. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 264]
Certificate of Ralfe Clench, Clerk of the Peace for the Home District dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 13 Dec 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William McDonald
“The Bearer William McDonald is the Son of a Loyalist, who served a Serjt in Butlers Rangers during the late American war. Newark 13th December 1796 [Signed] Ralfe Clench, Clerk of the Peace HD.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 264b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Elisabeth McDonell, Grand River dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 28 Jul 1797
“Humbly shews That your Petitioner is the wife of Wm McDonell – of the Township of Gainsborough and Daughter of Asa Holmes a Loyalist U. E., who is returned as such on the List—That having never received any Land your Petitioner humbly prays your Honor would be pleased to grant her 200 acres And your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—for my wife Elizth McDonell” Wm McDonell made his mark. “witness Nicholas Cooly, T Ridout NP” Received at the Executive Council Office on 29 Jul 1797 and read in Council on 31 Jul 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as UE. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 3, Petition Number 93]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter McDonell dated at Niagara on 1 Nov 1796
“The Petition of Peter McDonell of the Township of Gainsborough & late of Butlers Corps – in behalf of his wife Sarah McDonell Humbly sheweth That the wife of your Petitioner is a daughter of Asa Holmes – a Loyalist U. E. as p the annexed Certificate, who having never received any Land – your Petitioner prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 200 acres – in right of his wife – and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Peter McDonell” Received at the Executive Council Office on 10 Nov 1796 and read in Council on 17 Mar 1797. Ordered the Petitioner’s wife recommended for 200 acres as the daughter of a Loyalist. A warrant to the Attorney General 29 Jun 1804 to Sarah Dease. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 3, Petition Number 69]
Certificate of Ralfe Clench, Clerk of the Peace for the Home District dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 2 Nov 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter McDonell
“The Bearer Peter McDonell is married to the Daughter of Asa Holmes a Loyalist who joined the Royal Standard in America before the year 1783 [Signed] R Clench Clerk of the Peace &c HD” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 3, Petition Number 69a]
Letter from Sarah Dease to The Honourable Chief Justice Allcock dated at Wainfleet on 11 Jun 1804 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter McDonell
“Honor’d Sir I hereby do myself the Honor to acquaint you that my deceased Husband Peter McDonell drawed 200 Acres of Land for me Lot No 21 in the 2nd Concession of the Eastern Division of Oxford on Thames and that before his Death he sold the said land, which is now the property of Mr Wm Dils, I having given up my Right and Title to it. I do also further Certify that during my widowhood, I give up all claim Right & Title to the said Wm Dils, having Received all Demands in full from him for the same—I have the Honor to be with the Greatest Respect Sir Your Most obedient Humble Servant” Sarah Dease made her mark. Added notation: “NB. I do also further certify that the said P. McDonell deceased sold his Right & Title for 100 Hundred acres of Land, that is on the same Deed with the 200 acres he drawed for me—” Sarah Dease made her mark. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 3, Petition Number 69d]
Letter from Chewett and Ridout dated at the Surveyor General’s Office on 29 Jun 1804 to John Small, Esq. Clerk of the Executive Council attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter McDonell
“Sir, We are unable to return your warrant of the 1 August 1797 – to Peter McDonell in right of his wife for 200 acres, as it is packed away by the Surr General, & has been entered in the Wart Book, but the entry shall be noted, so that it may not be acted upon—she is stated to be the Daughter of a Loyalist – we are Sir Yr most obedt Servants for the Surveyor General [Signed] Chewett & Ridout [To] John Small Esqr CEC” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 3, Petition Number 69f]
Notation of Chewett and Ridout dated at the Surveyor General’s Office on 29 Jun 1804 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter McDonell
“It does not appear that Lot No 21 in the 2nd Concession of the Eastern Division of Oxford (which is entered to “Peter McDonell for his wife”) has ever been described, or reported by the Commissioner on Claims—for the Surr Genl [Signed] Chewett & Ridout” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 3, Petition Number 69g]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of William Holmes, Surgeon 5th Regiment of Foot read in the Executive Council on 19 Oct 1792
“Humbly shews That having married in Canada, & having a young family, he wishes to become a Settler in yr Excellencys Province, & from his profession—hopes to become a useful Subject within your Excellencys Government; he therefore prays yr Excellency for a Grant of 1200 acres of Land in the Township prayed for by Major Smith, which he will immediately settle—Which is humbly Submitted by Wm Holmes.” Read in the Executive Council on 19 Oct 1792 and ordered granted 1200 acres in the township petitioned for but not named by Major Smith [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 1, Petition Number 4]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Samuel Cassady dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the Lake) on 27 May 1795
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner some time since purchased from a Joseph McLaughlin, a Half acre Lot in the Town of Newark known by number Forty One, on which he had erected a frame for a dwelling House, afterwards sold by him to Doctor Holmes—Your Petitioner, for the purchase of said Lot, was to remove the above mentioned Frame to Doctor Holmes and keep, at his own Home, two of the McLaughlin Children for the space of one month, which service your Petitioner performed and was valued to him at Ten Pounds york Currency—Your Petitioner humbly begs to inform your Excellency, he has since understood that McLaughlin could not give him a Title to said Lot, having never received any himself, as the Lot was originally granted to James Vrooman, and a Certificate assigned to him by the Land Board, tho’ now not to be found, and Vroman gives up all his Title thereto to your Petitioner, who has a frame for a Dwelling House of 26 feet by 18—and other materials to complete the same, ready to put thereon—He therefore humbly prays your Excellency would be pleased to grant him said Lot, in Consideration of the Expense he has been at—and Your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Received at the Executive Council Office on 29 May 1795. Ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 1, Petition Number 14]
Signer to the certificate of Robert Kerr, J. P. dated on 12 Jul 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Dickhout
“Personally appeared before me Robert Kerr Esquire this 12th Day of July 1797 John Hope and being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists – Deposeth he served last war in Col. Bernards corps was at the Battle of Bennington and that Henry Dickhaut served in that Battle as a sergeant in the Hessian Artillery. The said Henry Dickhaut was wounded and taken prisoner and five years afterwards, he saw the said Henry Dickhaut a prisoner and further the Deponent sayeth not so help me God—” John Hope made his mark. “Sworn before me Day & Date above mentioned—[Signed] Robert Kerr J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 45]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of James Hopkins received at the Executive Council Office on 6 Aug 1795
“The Petition of James Hopkins Humbly Sheweth, That your Petitioner came into this Settlement last year, with an intention of becoming a Settler, your Petitioner had shortly after his arrival an opportunity of shewing his loyalty by turning out a Volunteer in the Lincoln Militia in expectation of going on service. your Petitioner was too young during the late war to take an active Part. therefore remained at home your Petitioner therefore Humbly Prays that your Excellency will be pleased to allow him such a quantity of land as is usual to People of his description & your Petitioner will as in duty bound Ever Pray. [Signed] James Hopkins” Received at the Executive Council Office on 6 Aug 1795 and read in Council on 5 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended for 200 acres if he has received none before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 39]
Certificate of Ralfe Clench dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 6 Aug 1795 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Hopkins
“The Bearer James Hopkins served in the Militia embodied in the County of Lincoln last Fall, Newark 5th August 95 [Signed R Clench” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 39a]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of James Hopkins received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner has resided in this Province upwards of two Years, and has taken the Oaths Subscribed the declaration, that he professes the Christian Religion and obedience to the laws—wherefore your Petitioner prays your Honor would be pleased for to allow him a location of two hundred acres, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] James Hopkins” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797 and read in Council on 12 May 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 65]
Certificate of Ralfe Clench dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 2 May 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Hopkins
“James Hopkins has been in this settlement upwards of three years, served in the Militia under my Command at this place. Newark 2nd May 97 [Signed] R Clench” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 65a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Esther [sic: Mahitabel] Hopkins dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 6 Aug 1795
“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner is a widow with three Sons and two Daughters all under age—and rents a small piece of Land in the Township of Thorold. That your Petitioner as well as her late husband rendered every service in their Power during the american war to Loyalists, and others in service of His Majesty which is well Known to Mr Swayzy—She Humbly prays therefore your Excellency will be graciously pleased to grant her & Family such Lands as to your Excellency may seem meet—her sons being from 13 to 18 years of age—And your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Esther Hopkins” This signature appears to have been written by the scribe and not the petitioner. Received at the Executive Council on 6 Aug 1795 and read in Council on 5 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended for 200 acres if she has received none before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 146]
Certificate of Isaac Swayze J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Esther [sic: Mahitabel] Hopkins
“Personally appeared before me Jno Small Esqr Isaac Swayze Esqr & on oath deposeth the Petitioner Esther Hopkins, is a mistake instead of Esther it should have been Mahitabel Hopkins, widow—[Signed] Isaac Swayze. Sworn before me J. Small” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 146a]
Warrant issued to Esther [sic: Mahitabel] Hopkins attached to her Upper Canada Land Petition
“O. C. —warrant No 332—dated 8 Oct 1796—200 acres—said to be under a Magistrates Cert: or recommendation—Mr Swayze says her name Mahitabel Hopkins- of the Township of Thorold, widow—” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 146a]
Land Board Certificate issued to Obadiah Hopkins dated on 7 Jun 1794 (using a pre-printed form with fill-ins)
“The Bearer Obadiah Hopkins having on the 12 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 [blank] in the District of Home 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 Seventh day of June one thousand seven hundred and ninety Four To Acting Surveyor General for the District of Nassau. [Signed] R. Hamilton, John McNabb, Robert Kerr” No Executive Council dates or order on the document. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 146]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Hopkins received at the Executive Council Office on 24 Mar 1797
“Humbly Sheweth That your petitioners Father served in Col Bartons Volunteers during the late American War—That your Petitioner came into this Province in the year 1786 with a wife and two Children, and has yet never drawn any lands, That your petitioner bought Six hundred acres of Land of Mr Robert Hamilton in the Township of Thorold where he resides—prays your Honor would be pleased to allow him such a grant of Land for himself; wife the daughter of a Loyalist- and Children as to your Honor may Seem meet and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] peter Hopkins” Received at the Executive Council Office on 24 Mar 1797 and read in Council on 28 Mar 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as a settler: but it appearing from his own account that he left the province within 3 months after first entering it and did not return until after 1789, not recommended for family lands. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 117]
Certificate of Isaac Swayze dated on 24 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Hopkins
“I do hereby Certify that Elisabeth Hopkins is the daughter of Caleb Swayze who served the last american War under the British Standard and that Peter Hopkins is the Son of Silas Hopkins who served as a Captn last american war in His majestys Service [Signed] Isaac Swayze” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 117a]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Hopkins received at the Executive Council Office on 16 May 1797
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner has resided in this Province for these 3 Years Past – and has never drawn any land—That your Petitioner has this Day taken the Oaths & Subscribed the declaration – Wherefore your Petitioner prays your Honor would allow him a location of 200 Acres, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—” Peter Hopkins made his mark. “Witness A McN” Received at the Executive Council Office on 16 May 1797 and read the same day. Ordered recommended for 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 102]
Warrant attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Hopkins
“Peter Hopkins the Younger of the Township of Niagara—yeoman O. C. 16 May 1797 200 acres” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 102a]
Certificate of Isaac Swayze, J. P. dated on 16 May 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Hopkins
“I do hearby Certify that Peter Hopkins Came into this province in the year 1794 with his Mother a wider and believe his Morrel Charactter good – Given under my hand this 16 day May 1797 [Signed] Isaac Swayze JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 102b]
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.
Peter Hopkins – Son to Silas Hopkins UE 200 acres in Oxford Township [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 4, Petition Number 117m]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Isaac Horning dated at Niagara on 6 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“The Petition of Isaac Horning of the Township of Barton who occupies two Lots in said Township on the plan whereof his name is inserted but has never received the Certificate— (vizt for Lots No 9 & 10 in the 7th Concession)—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 the above mentioned 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.” Isaac Horning made his mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 7 May and read in Council on 12 Jul. Ordered recommended these assignments may issue if his allegations are true. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 22]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Horning dated at Niagara on 6 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“The Petition of Peter Horning- of the Township of Barton- Farmer- who came into the Province in the year 1788—with a wife & nine children- That received 400 acres of Land- one half of which is so much cut up by a rocky mountain as to be totally unfit for culture & the remainder is entirely cleared & under cultivation—That your petitioner is settled 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 which he has left. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him for his family 500 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.” [Signed] Peter Horning” Received at the Executive Council Office on 7 May and read on 12 Jul. Ordered the petitioner must produce a certificate of his being entitled to family Lands. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 21]
Copy of a certificate dated 4 Aug 1788 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Horning
“To all who it may concern—At the request of Peter Horning (the Bearer hereof), we the Subscribers do hereby certify, That we have been long acquainted with him, know him to be a Person of a good moral character, and that, in the late unhappy Contest between Britain & America, he avoided taking an active part, nor could he he [sic] be prevailed with, to take the Test of Allegiance to America—witness our Hands this 4th Day of August 1788—Providence Montgomery County Pensylvania—(signed) Henry Pawling, John Pawling, Israel Jacobs, James Vaun, Nathl Pawling” a true Copy from the original [Signed] Thos Ridout, Not. Pub. Niagara 6 May 1796” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 21a]
Certificate of James Muirhead dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 7 Oct 1790) attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Horning
“This is to Certify that Peter Horning brought into this Settlement a Wife and nine Children Given under my hand James Muirhead” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 21c]
Certificate of Robert Hamilton, J. P. dated at Queenston on 5 Oct 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Horning
“By his Majestys Instructions to General Haldimand Dated [….] 16 July 1783 Every loyalist Settling in these New Countrys was entittled to 50 Acres for each person of which his family shall Consist And his own Allowance—This Order Continued in force till after 1790—Peter Horning brought his Family into this County in 1788 & proved his Tittle to Lands as a loyalist first to Colonel Hunter as Commanding- Officer, & afterwards to the Land board on their Establishment, who Confirmed his Location by a Certificate. —Queenston Oct. 5th 1796 [Signed] R. Hamilton” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 21d]