Land Petitions of the Niagara Settlers "Mortan to Mustard"


Mortan, Edmond

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of the residents at the foot of the escarpment in Niagara Township for a road from Queenston to the Four Mile Creek dated 20 Nov 1792

“The Memorial of the Inhabitants living near the foot of the Mountain Humbly Sheweth That your Memorialists for several years solicited to have a Road laid out from the Landing to the four Mile Creek but have not yet been able to procure any that is passable without endangering the lives of our Cattle or going over the Mountain which is twice the distance. Now your Memorialists humbly beg that your Excellency will please to order a Road to be laid out from the Landing to the four mile Creek the most convenient for the back Settlers—And Your Memorialists as in Duty bound will Ever Pray. [Signed] Fras Goring, Cornls Lambert, Elijah Collard, William Havens Senior, William Havens junior, John Havens, George Havens, Stephen Commett, Elias Sloot, Joseph Page, John Collard, Christn Warner, John Stacey, Daniel Cornell, Wm Vanery, Edmond Mortan, [Lem Certtelor], John Stevens Senior, William Stevens, John Stevens Junior, John Muckel, Andre Muir, Andrew Ostrander, Adam Hutt, Samson Lutts, Stephen Secord, Abraham Defreese, David Secord, Elias Smith, James Midaugh” Ordered by the Executive Council referred to the Road Bill passed last Sessions [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 1, Petition Number 44]

Certificate of Ralfe Clench C. C. P. dated at Newark on 12 Jan 1793 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of residents at the foot of the escarpment in Niagara Township

“The Majestrates in Quarter Session found that as the Road mentioned in the within Petition has already been laid out by their Commissioners appointed by the Majestrates they know of no Reason why it should not be opened as laid out by John Dale, Jacob Dover & Joseph Clement—by order of the Court [Signed] Ralfe Clench C. C. P. &c &c” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 1, Petition Number 44b]


Morty, John

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Morty- late of Butlers Rangers dated at Niagara on 7 Oct 1796

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner has been seven years in the Province, but never applied for nor received his military Lands. He therefore prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 300 Acres- as a reduced Ranger, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray” John Morty made his mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 7 Oct 1796 and read on 8 Oct. Ordered the Petitioner to produce his discharge or proof that he belonged to Butlers Rangers on the reduction. He produced sufficient proof. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 8b]

Certificate of Thomas Dickson dated 7 Oct 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Morty

“I do hereby Certify that on this Seventh day of October One Thousand Seven hundred and Ninety Six John Morty of Newark appeared before me William Dickson Esquire one of His Majestys Justices of the Peace in and for the Home District and took the Oath of Allegiance and Signed the Declaration [Signed] William Dickson JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 8]

Certificate of Ralfe Clench, Lieutenant of Butlers Rangers dated 7 Oct 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Morty

“The Bearer John Morty served in Butlers Rangers during the late American War. Niagara 7th October 1796” [Signed] Ralfe Clench” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 8a]

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Martha [sic: Morty] dated at Newark on 7 Feb 1797

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner served in Butlers Rangers during the late American War, and has been in this Settlement ever since and now wishes to build a house in this Town. Therefore Humbly Prays that a Town Lott may be granted him subject to the common rules & regulations (if any) that Town Lotts may be granted on & your Petitioner will as in duty Bound Ever Pray [Signed] John Martha” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Feb 1797 and read in Council on 28 Mar 1797. Ordered not recommended. At the top of the order the surname “Martha” was crossed through and “Morty” written. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 244]


Mosher, Mary (Cooley)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Cooley dated at York on 28 Jun 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“The Petition of Mary Cooley, late Mosher. The annexed is charges of her late Uncle and Brother, who never had taken up any land prays that her, & her Husband, Luther Cooley, case may be take into consideration, who also has a Magistrates Certificate, annexed—

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 she 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 her such Quantity of 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] Later note added: “The Petitioner’s Husband on application for the [consider] to the petition this 21 July 1817 states his wife’s name to be Patience and not Mary, as in the annexed [….] Received at the Executive Council Office on 28 Jun 1796 and read in Council on 13 Jul 1796. Ordered not recommended for want of further information. See his petition for confirmation of the Magistrate’s recommendation read 31 Jul 1817 in which he was permitted 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 2, Petition Number 27]

Certificate of Luther Cooley attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Cooley

“Received the discharge within mentioned of Israel Lake and Benjamin Mosher—York U. C. of 2d July 1818 [Signed] Luther Cooley” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 2, Petition Number 27a]

Note of Mordecai Sayles dated at Grand River on 16 Jun 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Cooley

“Grand River jun the 16 1797 Mr john Small sir ples to giv Luther Cooley Bemjamin Mosher ane Isrel Lake discharges and you will obige yore [….] [Signed] Mordecai Sayles. The Discharge of Mosher and of Lake are filed in the Petition of Luther & Mary Cooley Bundle No 1 Letter C petition No 27. The discharges returned to Luther Cooley 2d July 1818—” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 2, Petition Number 27b]

Certificate of David Secord J. P. dated at Queenstown on 27 Nov 1795 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Cooley

“The Bearer Luther Cooley of twenty Six years of Age Born in the states of [america] Profesig the Christian Religion and by trade A Husbandman 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 Books that he has had any prior grant of Land In any District of this province. Biven under My Hand At Queenstown 27 Novr 95. To the Deputy Surveyor of the Home District. [Signed David Secord JP” Written over “See order in Council 31st July 1817” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 2, Petition Number 27d]


Moss, Ann (Steinhoff)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Ann Steinhoff dated in Charlotteville Township, Norfolk County on 11 Apr 1826

“The Petition of Ann Steinhoff, wife of Andrew Steinhoff of the township of Woodhouse Clothier – Humbly Sheweth – That your Petitioner is the daughter of John Moss of the Township of Walsingham in the London District an Enrolled U E Loyalist has attained the full age of Twenty one Years and upwards (is married to Andrew Steinhoff who has taken the oath of allegiance) and has never received any Land or order for Lands from the Crown – Wherefore your Petitioner humbly prays that your Excellency will be pleased to grant her two hundred acres of the waste Lands of the Crown. And your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray. [Signed] Ann Steinhoff” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 18, Petition Number 296]

Deposition of George C. Salmon, J. P. dated in Vittoria, Charlotteville Township, Norfolk County on 12 Apr 1826 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ann Steinhoff

“London District to Wit} Ann Steinhoff maketh oath and saith that she is the person she describes herself to be in the within petition, that she has attained the full age of twenty one years and upwards, and has never received any Land or order for Land from the Crown —. Sworn before me in open General Quarter Sessions of the Peace held at Vittoria this 12 day of April 1826 [Signed] George C. Salmon J. P. [Signed] Ann Steinhoff” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 18, Petition Number 296a]

Deposition of John Killmaster dated in Vittoria, Charlotteville Township, Norfolk County on 13 Apr 1826 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ann Steinhoff

“London District to Wit} John Killmaster of the Township of Walsingham Yeoman maketh oath and Saith that Ann Steinhoff the within petitioner is the person she describes herself to be in the Within Petition, is of the full age of twenty one Years and upwards, and has never drawn any Lands or order for Lands from the Crown, to the best of his knowledge and belief. Sworn before me in open General Quarter Sessions of the Peace held at Vittoria this 13th day of April 1826. [Signed] George C. Salmon J. P. [Signed] John Killmaster” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 18, Petition Number 296a]

Deposition of Joseph Ryerson and John B. Askin dated in Vittoria, Charlotteville Township, Norfolk County on 13 Apr 1826 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ann Steinhoff

“London District to wit} We Joseph Ryerson Esquire, Chairman and John B. Askin Clerk of the Peace Certify that Ann Steinhoff personally appeared at the General Quarter Sessions of the Peace this day is recognized by the Magistrates to be the daughter of John Moss of the township of Walsingham in the London District an Enrolled U E. Loyalist who retained his loyalty during the late War with the United States of America without Suspicion of aiding or assisting the Enemy. Dated at the Court House in Vittoria in the said District this thirteenth day of April 1826 [Signed] Jos. Ryerson Chairman [Signed] John B. Askin Clerk of the Peace London District” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 18, Petition Number 296b]

Notes on the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ann Steinhoff

“Govt House 15 Jan/35 Referred to the Inspector General to report hereon for the information of the Lt. Governor in Council [Signed] Wm Rowan” “DUE [Signed] G Hall IG” “I do not find that the Petitioner has received any Land SGO 21 Jan 1835 [Signed] J. P. Hurd SG” “In Council 5th February 1835 Recommended [Signed] John Strachan PC JC” “Order issued 6th February 1835” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 18, Petition Number 296c]

Deposition of Joseph Ryerson dated on 13 Apr 1826 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ann Steinhoff

“London District to wit} I do hereby certify that Andrew Steinhoff of the township of Woodhouse in the said District Clothier, has taken and Subscribed the oath of allegiance to His Majesty King George the Fourth in Open Court of General Quarter Sessions of the Peace held at Vittoria before me the 13th day of April – 1826 – [Signed] Jos Ryerson Chairman” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 18, Petition Number 296d]


Moss, John

Transfer of rights from John Moss to James Clendenen dated on 30 May 1783 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Dickson

“Know all men by these presents that I John Moss of Capt Colwells Company Corps of Rangers Commanded by Lieutenant Colo John Butler Having Bargained and Sold to James Clendenen of said Corps of Rangers all my Rights title and Interest of the lands which will or Shall be granted here or hereafter or any other grant or gifts that will be granted by his Majesty George the third King of great Briton or by his laws or governments allowed granted or guiven to his Majestys loyalists Which by virtue of these presents do Sell all my rights titles or Interest guiven granted or allowed by his Majesty or governments to the above Named James Clendenen to his heirs and assigns and I the above named John Moss do firmly agree guiven granted and sold the above mentioned lands right tittles to the said James Clendenen to his Heirs and Executors for Ever and against me and my Heirs and Executors for Ever and against me and my Heirs Executors Administrators or assigns and against all person or persons Claiming or to Claim now or hereafter Having first before the Sealing and Delivering of these presents received the Just and full sum of four pounds New York Currency being the full Consideration – the Receipt Whereof I Do acknowledge Having given granted and Sold all my Rights Tittles and Interest of the above mentioned lands or [Ranges] Rights of land to the above Named James Clendenen, to his Heirs or assigns for Ever Whereof I have Hereunto Set my hand and seal this Thirtieth Day of May and in the year of our lord one Thousand Seven Hundred and Eighty three” John Moss made his mark. “Signed Sealed and Delivered in the presence of us James Heaslip, Thomas Winn” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 1aaa]

Deed from James Clendenin to William Dickson dated on 3 Jun 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Dickson

“Know all Men by these Presents that I James Clendenning of the County of Lincoln, and Home District, Son & heir to the late James Clendenning, late a Private in the Corps of Butlers Rangers Having become possessed of the right of Three hundred acres of land as heir to the said James Clendenning, by a certain deed of Bargain & Sale, made by a Certain John Moss a Soldier in the late Corps of Butlers Rangers—which John Moss is now in this Country, and who some time Petitioned the Honble Executive Council for said Three Hundred acres, which were granted him. Now, Having sold the Said Three Hundred acres to William Dickson of Newark, for the Consideration of Thirty Pounds, I bind myself my Heirs Executors & administrators, to procure a Title Deed for said Three Hundred acres to said William Dickson or I authorise the said William Dickson to apply to His Majestys Honble Executive Council, that the Title Deed may Issue in the name of said William Dickson, if they the Council may be pleased to be so minded and I further do authorise the said William Dickson to do all act or acts by signing my name or affixing my seal, to all or any Instrument in order to the perfecting the said Transfer—In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand & seal this Sixteenth day of June 1798 and of his Majestys Reign the 38th [Signed] James Clendenin, Witness “John Heners, George Hainer” Added note in the margin: The land is taken up in the Township of Walsingham Lot Number 22, in the 12th Conn & 21 in the 8th Concession” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 1ddd]

Ticket granted to John Moss

“Ticket for Lot No 21, first Concession. New Settlements, Detroit River & Lake Erie [Lost] by John Moss—Vide Report A. page 8 [Signed] D W Smith Sury” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Miscellaneous 1788-1798 Rg 1, L 3, Vol. 377, Petition Number 162]

“District of Hesse 1790 No 10 John Moss Report A, page 8—Certificate granted 10 September 1790—About 200 acres” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Miscellaneous 1788-1798 Rg 1, L 3, Vol. 377, Petition Number 162a]


Moss, Maiden (Newkirk)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Maiden Newkirk of the Township of Walsingham, in the London District dated in Walsingham Township, Norfolk County on 14 Feb 1834

“Humbly Sheweth, — That your Petitioner is the daughter of John Moss of Malahide in said District an enrolled U. E. Loyalist. That she is married to Peter Newkirk Junior of Walsingham aforesaid, Yeoman, and has never drawn any Land, or received any Order for land from the Crown. Wherefore your Petitioner humbly prays that your Excellency would be pleased to take her case into consideration, and grant her two hundred acres of the waste Lands of the Crown. — And your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” Maiden Newkirk made her mark. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 18, Petition Number 47]

Deposition of J. Mitchell, J. P. dated 14 Feb 1834 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Maiden Newkirk

“At a General Quarter Session of the Peace held at the Court House in London in and for the London District the eighth day of April in the year of our Lord 1834, personally appeared Maiden Newkirk who being duly sworn maketh oath and saith that she is the person describes herself to be in the within Petition, and that she has never drawn any land or received any order for land from the Crown.” Maiden Newkirk made her mark. Sworn before me in G. Q. S. at London this 8th day of April 1834. The affidavit having been first read and Explained to deponent [Signed] J Mitchell J. P. Londn” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 18, Petition Number 47a]

Deposition of Moses Newkirk dated 14 Feb 1834 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Maiden Newkirk

“Moses Newkirk of Walsingham in the London District, Yeoman, maketh oath and saith that the Petitioner Maiden Newkirk, is the person she describes herself to be in the within petition, and that she has never drawn any Land, or received any order for Land from the Crown to the best of the deponent’s Knowledge and belief this 14th day of February 1834 before me [Signed] J. Mitchell J. P.} [Signed] Moses Newkirk” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 18, Petition Number 47a]

Deposition of Mahlon Burwell, J. P. dated 13 Apr 1834 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Maiden Newkirk

London District to wit} We Mahlon Burwell Esquire chairman and John Askin Clerk of the Peace do certify that Maiden Newkirk, personally appeared in open Court of General Quarter Sessions of the Peace, is this day recognized by the Magistrates of the London District, to be the Daughter of John Moss – of the township of Malahide — an Enrolled U. E. Loyalists, who retained his Loyalty during the late War without suspicion of aiding or assisting the Enemy, and that the said Peter Newkirk, her husband did his duty in defence of the Province during the late War. Dated in open court of General Quarter Sessions of the Peace duly held at London this thirteenth day of April 1834 [Signed] M. Burwell chairman [Signed] John Baskin Clerk of the Peace” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 18, Petition Number 47b]

Notes attached to the Petition of Maiden Newkirk

“Govt House 13th Oct 1834 Referred to the Inspector General to report hereon for the information of the Lt Governor in Council By Command [Signed] Wm Rowan” “[Signed] J N Taylor Solicitor” “DUE [Signed] G. Hall IG” “I do not find that the Petitioner has received any Land SGO 3 Nov 1834 [Signed S. P. Wood SG” “In Council 6th November 1834 Recommended [Signed] John Machon P. C. JC” “Order issued 10 November 1834” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 18, Petition Number 47c]

Deposition of Peter Newkirk Jr. dated 14 Feb 1834 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Maiden Newkirk

“London District To wit} I certify that Peter Newkirk Junior, of Walsingham, yeoman, has this 14th day of February 1834, taken and subscribed the Oath of Allegiance, as required by Law, before me [signed] J. Mitchell A Commissioner for admg the Oath of Allegiance, Londn Dt” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 18, Petition Number 47d]


Mount, Jane (Burtch Corlis)

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Moses Mount in behalf of his wife, Jane Mount dated at Niagara on 29 Dec 1796

“Respectfully shews—That your Petitioners wife was the Daughter of Charles Burch a Loyalist prays Your Honor will please to grant her two hundred Acres of Land, & your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Moses Mount” Received at the Executive Council Office on 29 Dec 1796 and read in Council on 28 Mar 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as a U E. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 3, Petition Number 19]

Certificate of William Kennedy Smith, J. P. dated on 4 Jan 1797 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Moses Mount

“I do hereby Certify that Jane Burtch a Daughter of Charles Burtch is the wife of Moses Mount [Signed] William Kennedy Smith, J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 3, Petition Number 19a]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Jane Corlis of the Township of Burford dated on 19 Dec 1801

“Humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner is the Daughter of Charles Burtch of the Township of Burford a Loyalist U. E. and is married, and having never received any Lands in the province, respectfully requests your Excellency would be pleased to Grant her two hundred acres – And your petitioner as in duty bound shall ever pray” Jane Corlis made her mark “Signed before me [Signed] Thomas Hornor J. P. for the District of London” Received at the Executive Council Office on 26 Jan 1802 and read the same day (late Mount). Ordered recommended for 200 acres as a daughter of a UE. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 5, Petition Number 14]

Certificate of Jane Corlis dated on 19 Dec 1801 attached to her Upper Canada Land Petition

“I Jane Corlis do make Oath that I am a married woman and never received any Grant or order for Lands from the Crown in this province” Jane Corlis made her mark. “Sworn before me the Nineteenth day of Decemr 1801 [Signed] Thomas Hornor J. P. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 5, Petition Number 14]

Certificate of Thomas Hornor, J. P. dated at Burford on 19 Dec 1801 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jane Corlis

“I Thomas Hornor one of His Majetsty’s Justices of the peace for the District of London, Do Certify that the petitioner Jane Corlis is the person she describes herself to be, and never to my knowledge or belief received any Lands or order for Lands from the Crown in this province [Signed] Thomas Hornor, J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 5, Petition Number 14a]


Mount, Moses

Upper Canada Land Petition of Moses Mount dated on 28 Jun 1794

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner served His Majesty during the American War in the Corps of Rangers commanded by Lieutenant Coll Butler: Five Years of which time he associated as Serjeant Major. In 1776 your Petitioner conducted Capts Benson & H[….] together with Lieutenants Richardson & Cubbage Four British Officers (then Prisoners in Pennsylvania) to Canaderage, on His Return to that Province was imprisoned, when released came to Niagara.—Your Petitioner never Located any Lands in this Province therefore your Petitioner Prays that the allotment of Land which his services may have intitled him to, may be granted him, in the vicinity of the Mohawks Village, in a Gore between the Township of Exeter & the Indian Line or in such other place as your Excellency may seem meet, and your petitioner will ever pray [Signed] Moses Mount” Added postscript: “He begs leave to observe that he has a Wife and wishes to take the Land for Her, with that which may be granted himself” Received at the Executive Council Office on 28 Jun 1794 and read in Council on 28 Jun 1794. Ordered 500 acres to be granted to petitioner and referred for location to the Surveyor General. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 1, Petition Number 22]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Moses Mount in behalf of his wife, Jane Mount dated at Niagara on 29 Dec 1796

“Respectfully shews—That your Petitioners wife was the Daughter of Charles Burch a Loyalist prays Your Honor will please to grant her two hundred Acres of Land, & your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Moses Mount” Received at the Executive Council Office on 29 Dec 1796 and read in Council on 28 Mar 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as a U E. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 3, Petition Number 19]

Certificate of William Kennedy Smith, J. P. dated on 4 Jan 1797 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Moses Mount

“I do hereby Certify that Jane Burtch a Daughter of Charles Burtch is the wife of Moses Mount [Signed] William Kennedy Smith, J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 3, Petition Number 19a]


Muckle, Isabella (Hewitt)

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Huett [signed Hewet] dated at Niagara on 27 Aug 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“The Petition of John Huett – in behalf of his wife Isabella Huett – daughter of John Muckle late of Jessups Rangers— & Loyalist U. E – respectfully shews- That his wife having never received any Land – Prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him in right of his wife 200 acres of land. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray. [Signed] John Hewet” Received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Sep [1796]. Ordered certificate wanted. Lie over for U. E. List. Read again in the Executive Council on 11 Mar [1797]. Ordered recommended. John Muckle being on the UE List. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 138]

Certificate of Ralfe Clench dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 22 Aug 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Huett

“John Muckle father in law to John Hewit the Bearer has long since been enrolled in the UE list. [Signed] R Clench” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 138b]

Certificate of William Dickson, J. P. dated on 25 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Huett

“Personally came before me John Muckle of Township of Newark & of Jessups late Corps, who being solemnly sworn made Oath that John Hewet of Township of Stamford is married to his Daughter, Issabel Muckle and comes under the Description of an U. E. Loyalist. Sworn Before me this 25th March 1797 [Signed] William Dickson JP.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 138c]


Muckle, John Sr.

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of the residents at the foot of the escarpment in Niagara Township for a road from Queenston to the Four Mile Creek dated 20 Nov 1792

“The Memorial of the Inhabitants living near the foot of the Mountain Humbly Sheweth That your Memorialists for several years solicited to have a Road laid out from the Landing to the four Mile Creek but have not yet been able to procure any that is passable without endangering the lives of our Cattle or going over the Mountain which is twice the distance. Now your Memorialists humbly beg that your Excellency will please to order a Road to be laid out from the Landing to the four mile Creek the most convenient for the back Settlers—And Your Memorialists as in Duty bound will Ever Pray. [Signed] Fras Goring, Cornls Lambert, Elijah Collard, William Havens Senior, William Havens junior, John Havens, George Havens, Stephen Commett, Elias Sloot, Joseph Page, John Collard, Christn Warner, John Stacey, Daniel Cornell, Wm Vanery, Edmond Mortan, [Lem Certtelor], John Stevens Senior, William Stevens, John Stevens Junior, John Muckel, Andre Muir, Andrew Ostrander, Adam Hutt, Samson Lutts, Stephen Secord, Abraham Defreese, David Secord, Elias Smith, James Midaugh” Ordered by the Executive Council referred to the Road Bill passed last Sessions [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 1, Petition Number 44]

Certificate of Ralfe Clench C. C. P. dated at Newark on 12 Jan 1793 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of residents at the foot of the escarpment in Niagara Township

“The Majestrates in Quarter Session found that as the Road mentioned in the within Petition has already been laid out by their Commissioners appointed by the Majestrates they know of no Reason why it should not be opened as laid out by John Dale, Jacob Dover & Joseph Clement—by order of the Court [Signed] Ralfe Clench C. C. P. &c &c” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 1, Petition Number 44b]

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Muckle dated at Niagara on 21 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“The Petition of John Muckle late of Jessups Corps of Rangers – Respectfully shews, That your Petitioner arrived in this province in the year 1784 – with a wife & five Children, that he never received any Land either on his own account or Family, (having lived on Land he purchased) That your petitioner is desirous to settle on the lands of the Crown in this Province, being in a condition to cultivate and improve the same. That he has taken the usual oaths, and subscribed the declaration, that he professes the Christian Religion, and obedience to the laws, and has lived inoffensively in the country. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him 300 acres & to his Family 300 acres of land at Long pt Settlement as a discharged Ranger & his Family upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Added note of John Small, Clerk of the Executive Council: “I returned the Certificate of his Service & family Lands [Initialed] J. S.” Received at the Executive Council Office on 24 May 1796. Ordered recommended for 300 acres and family lands if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 2]

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Muckle dated at Niagara on 12 Jun 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“Respectfully shews—That your Petitioner has been 11 years in the Province – & has a wife & five children that he served in Jessups Corps – during the american war & never received any certificate for Land. 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 to subscribe the declaration, that he professes the Christian Religion, and obedience to the laws, and has lived inoffensively in the country. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him 300 acres of Land upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792, or such other quantity of land as to your Excellency in your wisdom may think meet. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Received at the Executive Council Office on 22 Jun and read in Council on 14 Jul. Ordered recommended for three hundred acres of land upon producing his discharge. The certificate for family lands wanting. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 148a]

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of John Muckle received at the Lieutenant Governor’s Office, York (Toronto) on 7 Jul 1801

“Humbly shewing That in consequence of the Proclamation for that purpose he had himself enrolled, at the Quarter Sessions at Niagara upon the U. E. List having proved to the satisfaction of the Justices that he joined General Burgoyne’s Army at Saratoga – that by some accident or other, in copying the Roll, your petitioners name has been omitted, he therefore humbly prays that your Excellency will be pleased to condescend in giving Orders to have the mistake rectified, and in duty bound your petitioner will ever pray” John Muckle made his mark. “witness D W Smith” Received at the Lieutenant Governor’s Office, York (Toronto) on 7 Jul 1801. Ordered referred to the Executive Council. Ordered “Settled.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 5, Petition Number 14]

Copy of a certificate of Ralfe Clench dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 12 Jun 1799

“The Bearer John Muckle is an U. E. Loyalist – as appears by the Original Roll taken in 2nd Sessions, it having been proved to the satisfaction of the Justices that he joined Genl Burgoyne’s Army at Saratoga—Newark 12th June 1799 (signed) Ralfe Clench, Clerk of the Peace Home District” Added notation: “a Copy [Signed] D W Smith” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 5, Petition Number 14b]

Certificate of David W. Smith J. P. dated on 5 Jul 1802 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Muckle

“John Muckle, UE, makes oath, that there is a house, Barn, & upwards of 5 acres cleared upon Lot no 12, 3d Conn of Townsend granted to his Son John – whom he swears is upwards of 21 years of Age, & that he has drawn no other lands from the Crown—Sworn before me this 5 day of July 1802} D W Smith JP” John Muckle made his mark. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 5, Petition Number 14a]


Muckle, John Jr.

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Muckle Junior dated at York on 11 Aug 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“The Petition of John Muckle Junr Son of John Muckle who served His Majesty last War in Jessups Corps of Rangers—Respectfuly 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] John Muckle” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Aug 1796 and read in Council 8 Oct. Ordered prayer granted if none has been granted before on producing certificate of his having taken the oaths. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 17]


Mucklehone, John

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Mucklehone of the Township of Stamford dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 1 Aug 1795

“Humbly Sheweth, That your Petitioner has always been a loyal Subject, which is well Known to Nathl Pettit Esqr that he has been settl’d in this Country upwards of nine years, with his Family, consisting of a wife and two Children & that he has received two Hundred acres of Land, whereon he lives – Your Petitioner therefore humbly prays your Excellency May be graciously pleased to grant him, an addition thereon, and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] John Mucklehone” Received at the Executive Council Office on 3 Aug 1795. Ordered recommended for such family lands as he may appear entitled to on producing the required certificate. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 40a]

Certificate of David Secord, J. P. attached to the Upper Canada land Petition of John Mucklehone

“I do hereby Sartifye That The bearer John Muchlehoon [sic] Came into this Province In the year 1785 and brought with him A wife and one child To Whom these May Consern 16th May 1796 [Signed] D Secord JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 40]

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Ryan, House Carpenter dated at Niagara on 6 Jul 1797

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner came into this Province four weeks ago from New Jersies with his family, consisting of a wife and two children (now in Newark) and being desirous of becoming a bona fide settler in the Province, your Petitioner prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 200 acres of Land, and a Lot in the Town of Newark or Niagara and as in Duty bound your Petitioner will ever pray [Signed] James Ryan” Added notation: “John Mucklehone of Stamford is your Petitioners uncle” Received at the Executive Council Office on 7 Jul 1797 and read in Council on 8 Jul 1797. Ordered to be taken into consideration when the Petitioner means to go on the land. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 3, Petition Number 23]

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Charles Willcox dated at Niagara on 21 Jul 1797

“Humbly shews – That your Petitioner came into the Province in May last with a wife, and two children, who at present are at John Mucklehone’s in Stamford, (her uncle) That your Petitioner desirous to settle in the Province, and of ability to cultivate Land, humbly pray your Honor would be pleased to grant him 200 acres as a Settler, and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—Charles Willcox” Added notation: “The petitioners father Amos Willcox was a Loyalist, and suffered imprisonment for his attachment to government” Received at the Executive Council Office on 25 Jul 1797 and read in Council on 21 Aug 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 5]


Muir, Andrew

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of the residents at the foot of the escarpment in Niagara Township for a road from Queenston to the Four Mile Creek dated 20 Nov 1792

“The Memorial of the Inhabitants living near the foot of the Mountain Humbly Sheweth That your Memorialists for several years solicited to have a Road laid out from the Landing to the four Mile Creek but have not yet been able to procure any that is passable without endangering the lives of our Cattle or going over the Mountain which is twice the distance. Now your Memorialists humbly beg that your Excellency will please to order a Road to be laid out from the Landing to the four mile Creek the most convenient for the back Settlers—And Your Memorialists as in Duty bound will Ever Pray. [Signed] Fras Goring, Cornls Lambert, Elijah Collard, William Havens Senior, William Havens junior, John Havens, George Havens, Stephen Commett, Elias Sloot, Joseph Page, John Collard, Christn Warner, John Stacey, Daniel Cornell, Wm Vanery, Edmond Mortan, [Lem Certtelor], John Stevens Senior, William Stevens, John Stevens Junior, John Muckel, Andre Muir, Andrew Ostrander, Adam Hutt, Samson Lutts, Stephen Secord, Abraham Defreese, David Secord, Elias Smith, James Midaugh” Ordered by the Executive Council referred to the Road Bill passed last Sessions [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 1, Petition Number 44]

Certificate of Ralfe Clench C. C. P. dated at Newark on 12 Jan 1793 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of residents at the foot of the escarpment in Niagara Township

“The Majestrates in Quarter Session found that as the Road mentioned in the within Petition has already been laid out by their Commissioners appointed by the Majestrates they know of no Reason why it should not be opened as laid out by John Dale, Jacob Dover & Joseph Clement—by order of the Court [Signed] Ralfe Clench C. C. P. &c &c” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 1, Petition Number 44b]


Muirhead, Deborah

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Mrs. Deborah Muirhead read in the Executive Council on 5 Jul 1796

“Most humbly sheweth – That your petitioner is daughter of the late Lt Colonel John Butler and married to Surgeon James Muirhead of Newark. That your Petitioner with the provident cares of a mother, hopes that your Excellency will consider her Claim on Government for a Grant of some of the waste lands of the Crown in this province, in as favourable a light, as that of other Daughters of Loyalist officers of that Rank—wherefore prays for a Grant of twelve hundred Acres & in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] D. Muirhead Deborah” Read in the Executive Council on 5 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended for 1200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 133]


Muirhead, Elizabeth (Vanderlip)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Anne and Elizabeth Vanderlip dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 4 June 1796

“Respectfully Sheweth That their deceased Father Mr Frederick Vanderlip served His Majesty during the last war in Butlers Rangers until his Death – that they neither of them, have received any of His Majestys Bounty lands on Account of their deceased Father’s Services, nor in their own behalfs they therefore pray that they may have their deceased Father’s proportion of lands granted to them & such other addition of the Kings Bounty lands, on their own behalf, as your Excellency in Council may think your Petitioners entitle to—And in Duty bound will pray [Signed] Mary Anne Vanderlip, Eh Vanderlip” Read in the Executive Council on 13 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended for 200 acres each in their own right and 300 acres between them out of respect to the recommendations accompanying the Petition. Added Council Note: “See the Petition of Elizth Muirhead formerly Vanderlip und 12 May 1808. See also [the] Pet. of Wm Vanderlip” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “U-V” Bundle 2, Petition Number 1]


Muirhead, James

Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler, James Muirhead and Joseph Yates dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 25 Jun 1795

“That your Petitioners being linked together by family Connections and desirous of forming a Settlement in this province by the means of which they could establish themselves contiguously to each other on Lands, vizt. please [….] them a considerable number of respectable families who wish to follow them and settle in a Body, from similar Motives and long attachment to the families of Your petitioners, in their own behalfs, are induced to come forwards & pray your Excellency for the Grant of sufficient tract of the waste lands of the Crown whereupon to settle Forty families in the usual Manner always observed in that respect in Similar Cases. That least any Suspicion should arrise that the lands which your Excellency may be pleased to grant in this behalf should remain unlocated and uncultivated beyond the term usually allowed the petitioners are ready to enter into Bonds to their Sovereign Lord the King to settle the aforesaid number of families on such within three years at the utmost. That from the Situation in life of Your Petitioners they are in hopes that your Excellency will make a due discrimination between them and the Adventurous applications of unknown persons who often Ob[….] their proposals on your Excellency. Wherefore Your Petitioners pray that your Excellency would be pleased to take their application into Consideration and give Such order thereon as in Your Excellency’s Wisdom may seem meet & Your Petitioners as in Duty Bound will ever pray &c. [Signed] Johnson Butler, James Muirhead, Joseph C. Yates” The Executive Council deferred until there was a full Board of Council [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 1, Petition Number 31]

Upper Canada Land Petition of James Muirhead dated on 5 Apr 1791

“Sheweth That Your Petitioner having resided for Some time in this District and being desirous of becoming an Inhabitant of the Same but has as yet not received any Lands—Your Petitioner begs leave to represent that he has Served near Four Years as Surgeons Mate in the 4th Battn of his Majestys 60th Reg—he therefore prays the Honbl Board to Grant him Such Additional Quantity to the usual allowance of Lands as to them shall seem fit—And Your Petitioner as in Duty Bound shall ever pray—[Signed] James Muirhead” No dates or order added. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Miscellaneous 1788-1798, Petition Number 141]

Certificate of Augustus Jones, Deputy Provincial Surveyor dated at York (Toronto) on 27 Jun 1798 (no petition attached)

“I do hereby Certify that some time before the Establishment of Upper Canada the Land Board of Niagara directed the Clerk to enter Doctor Murhead [sic] name on the Map of now Called York, for two thousand Acres of land, which was done at the same time [Signed] A. Jones D. P. S.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 4, Petition Number 139]

Letter from Acting Surveyor General David W. Smith to John Small, Clerk of the Executive Council dated at the Surveyor General’s Office on 19 Oct 1798

“Dear Small I enclose a Certificate of Mr Jones’s, setting forth that the land Board of Niagara directed their Clerk to enter Dr Muirhead for 2000 Acres, which he says was done; to which Certe the Dr requests you will do the needful [with] in the Council Office – Your truly [Initialled] D W S” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 4, Petition Number 139a]

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Thomas Butler, Andrew Butler, Johnson Butler and James Muirhead received at the Executive Council Office on 1 Feb 1800

“humbly Sheweth That your Petitioners being desirous to procure the deeds for the Lands granted to the late Lieut Colonel John Butler their Father, Humbly Pray that your Excellency will order grants to Isue to Them and their Heirs and your Petitioners as in Duty bound will ever pray [Signed] Thos Butler, Andw Butler, Johnson Butler, James Muirhead” Received at the Executive Council Office on 1 Feb 1800. Ordered the Lands be identified. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 5, Petition Number 6]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead received at the Executive Council Office on 3 Jun 1800

“The Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead in behalf of themselves and others the Heirs of the late Lieutenant Colonel John Butler Humbly Sheweth, That your Petitioners being desirous of Obtaining in the name of the said Johnson Butler His Majesty’s Letters Patent of Grant for such Lands as the said late Lieutenant Colonel John Butler may have been entitled to: —And your Petitioners being duly empowered to make this application; Humbly pray that your Excellency will be pleased to take this their Petition into consideration And make such order thereupon as to your Excellency may seem proper. And your Petitioners as in Duty bound will ever pray &c. —[Signed] Johnson Butler, James Muirhead” Received at the Executive Council Office on 3 Jun 1800 and read in Council on 5 Jun 1800. Ordered referred to the Surveyor General to report the Lands of Lt. Col. John Butler. Ordered approved by the Lieut Governor in the General Report of the 18 May 1804 pages 9 & 10. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 5, Petition Number 16]

Power of Attorney from Thomas Butler and Andrew Butler dated on 24 May 1800 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead

“Know all men by these presents that we Thomas Butler and Andrew Butler of Niagara Esquires, do make, ordain, nominate & appoint Johnson Butler and James Muirhead Esquires our true and lawfull Attornies as well for us as for themselves to do and Transact all such business before His Excellency Lt Governor Hunter in Council respecting all Such Grants of Lands for which Deeds have not as yet been Issued and for the military claims &c &c of the Late Lt Col. John Butler to his Heirs and they are hereby empowered to obtain the Grants in the name of Johnson Butler, one of the Heirs of the Late Lt Col. John Butler hereby ratifying and confirming whatsoever our said attornies shall do or cause to be done for us in the premises As witness our hands and Seals – This Twenty fourth Day of May eighteen hundred and fortieth year of his Majestys Reign—[Signed] Thos Butler, Andw Butler. Signed Sealed and Delivered in Presence of J Butler Junr” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 5, Petition Number 16g]

Report of Deputy Surveyors General Chewett and Ridout dated at the Surveyor General’s Office at York (Toronto) on 7 Jun 1800 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead

“May it please your Excellency! In obedience to your Excellency’s order of reference, to report the Quantity of Lands for which Descriptions have issued to Colonel Butler – We humbly beg leave to represent to your Excellency, that the Lands which have been described for Lt Col. John Butler are contained in the Description, hereunto annexed, as sent to the Attorney Generals Office – All which is submitted to Your Excellencys wisdom SGO 7 June 1800 for the Ag Sur Genl [Signed] Chewett & Ridout The respective Vouchers & Certs accompany this” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 5, Petition Number 16c]

Report of Deputy Surveyors General Chewett and Ridout dated at the Surveyor General’s Office at York (Toronto) on 10 Jun 1800 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead

“Sir, Enclosed we send you Twenty two Certificates, which we have examined agreeable to a verbal Order of Council, by Messeurs Butler, and Muirhead – twenty of which appear on the plans of Our Office for Wm Mc[Hu]re, and is already described – No 22 appears for Andrew Ransier, as Stated in the Certificate – Enclosed is also a State of the Land transfered by Colo John Butler – This, Sir, is the best information we can give, upon this verbal message, and we request that when you have any Orders to communicate to this Office, that they may be in writing, as we do not conceive the party concerned, is proper verbal Messenger to this Office – We have the honor to be Sir your most Obedient Humble Servant For the Actg Surveyr Genl [Signed] Chewett & Ridout [To] John Small Esqr CEC” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 5, Petition Number 16a]

Report of Deputy Surveyors General Chewett and Ridout dated at the Surveyor General’s Office at York (Toronto) on 10 Jun 1800 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead

“State of the land transfered by Colo John Butler – to Mr Johnson Butler Township of Louth – County of Lincoln, District of Niagara – Lots Nos 18, 19 & 20, in the 3rd Conn & Lots Nos 18, 18 & 20, in the 4th Conn} 600 acres Described No 7194

Louth – to Lieut Thomas Butler Lots No 21 & 22 in front of the first Conn with the broken lands – & Lots No 21, 22 & 23 in the first Concessn with the broken land upon the Twenty Mile pond – Contg 578 Acres Described No 2474

Louth – to Lieut Andrew Butler Lots Nos 21, 22 & 23 in the second and third Concessions, with the broken lands Containing 673 Acres Described No 2475

For the Acting Surveyor Genl [Signed] Chewett & Ridout” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 5, Petition Number 16b]

Order of the Executive Council dated 12 June 1800 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead

“Read in Council 12th June 1800. It appears that the Lieut. Governor & Council in the yr 1794 from respect to the Caracter [sic] & Powers of the late Col. Butler & from a conviction that he had been very severely disappointed in locating the tract which he destined to lie & which was in the principal seat of his family, resolved to recommend him to His [Maty] for an addition of a further grant of between 5 & 6 hundred acres being intended to cover that tract. It does not affirm however that this resolution was […] carried into execution. Col. Butler however in his lifetime & the family since his death have remained in undisputed possession of the tract, this without any title to it - & have made much improvements on it & render it one of the most Valuable Estates in the Province. The family now applies for a title under the resolution of the Lt Govr & Council. Under consideration of all [circes], the Board recommends to His Excellency, that on account of the zeal & activity of the late Col. Butler, & of his Sons serving the late War, the family may be recommended for a grant of the tract in question amountg as nearly as possible can be con[..]tered to about 575 Acres [Initialed] JE” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 5, Petition Number 16e]

Revised Order in Council dated on 9 Mar 1802 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead

“It appearing from the information of the Surveyor General or other sources, that the excess of 575 Acres over the late Coll Butlers Military Allowance was intended to cover his claim for family Lands which would therefore remain unsatisfied—the recommendation of Jun 12th 1800 is revoked & in lieu thereof it is recommend that a Deed or Deeds issue for the tract described assigned for him [near] Niagara under the order of June 14 1794 in which it is understood is to be included the small Gore lying between the one & two Mile Ponds which was in dispute between Col Butler & Mr Swayze & which after being referred to the Surveyor Genl for Settlement was relinquished by the latter – The two tracts taken together making about the quantity above mentd [Initialed] JE” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 5, Petition Number 16d]

Extract from an order of the Executive Council dated in the Council Chamber on 14 Jun 1794 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead

“Present The Honble Wm Osgood Chief Justice, The Honble Alexr Grant, The Honble James Baby, The Honble Peter Russell—According to order the Acting Surveyor General produced a Report of Survey by Mr Welch Deputy Surveyor – respecting Colonel Butlers Lands and others—and from the Boundaries suggested in the Sketch—these will be for Col. Butler, somewhat less than Five hundred & Seventy five acres—The Report being read, the Council approve thereof and direct it to be carried into Execution – The Honble Council sensible of Col Butlers merits regret that the limited quantity of Land in the Tract in question will not allow them to assign him an equal quantity with those who are entitled under a prior order of Council, but order that he may be a liberty to locate five Hundred Acres in any Vacant Tract, And that he be confirmed in the possession of that part of his Property which was in the Boundaries or Limits of the Town of Newark. Extracted from the Minutes of Council [Signed] John Small” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 5, Petition Number 16f]

Land Board Certificate issued to Lieutenant Colonel John Butler dated on 10 Feb 1791 (using a pre-printed form with fill-ins) attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead

“The Bearer Lt Col. John Butler having on the 10th 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 4 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 10th day of February one thousand seven hundred and Ninety one To Augustus Jones Acting Surveyor General for the District of Nassau. [Signed] A Gordon Lt, Col, R. Hamilton, Peter Ten Broeck” Certificate of the Acting Surveyor: “I Assign to the Bearer Lieut Col John Butler the Lot No 21 & 22 in 4th Concession in the Township of No 4 in the District of Nassau containing Two Hundred Acres being Twenty Chains by fifty each. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 4, Petition Number 16s]

Approval of transfer by the Land Board dated 2 Nov 1792 on the Land Board Certificate issued to Lieutenant Colonel John Butler

“The Land Board consent to the Transfer (of the two Lots mentioned in this Certificate) by Colonel John Butler to his son Johnston [sic] Butler [Signed] R. Hamilton, Robert Kerr, John Burch, John Warren, John McNabb” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 4, Petition Number 16s]

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of James Muirhead of Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake), Surgeon read in the Executive Council on 27 Jun 1798

“humbly Sheweth That in the year 1790 your petitioner being then on duty in his Majestys Service at this place – as Surgeons mate in the 60th Regiment, was sollicited by a respectable number of the neighbouring gentlemen and other Inhabitants to become a permanent residenter. The growing settlement being then in want of medical assistance – That in consequence of such sollicitation your petitioner memorialed His Excellency the Rt Honorable Guy Lord Dorchester for permission to retire from the Service and with some difficulty, obtained the same. That in consideration of your petitioner’s situation in the Army & his long service in hot & unhealthy climates added to the benefits which the Settlements a knowledge to derive from his professional exertions the Land Board of this District were pleased to grant to your petitioner a Certificate for the location of Two thousand Acres of Land, being the proportion of a Subaltern in the Army a Copy of which certificate is hereunto annexed. That your petitioner has not as yet located the said two thousand Acres of land. Wherefore your petitioner prays that your Excellency would take into consideration the circumstances above recited and grant your Excellency’s Sanction to the Land transaction of the Land Board so as to enable your petitioner to locate the above mentioned quota of Land in such part of this District as may be most convenient for your petitioner – under the approbation of His Majesties Actg Surveyr General – And your petitioner as In duty bound will ever pray &c &c &c” [Signed] James Muirhead” Read in the Executive Council on 27 Jun 1798. Ordered to be laid before the Board again. Read again on 6 Jun 1800. Ordered this petition was answered 14 Jun 1794. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 5, Petition Number 157]

Land Board Certificate dated 6 Apr 1791 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Muirhead

“Land Board 3rd Township 6th April 1791 The Board having Considered the Petition of Doctr Muirhead, late Surgeons Mate to the 60th Regiment do hereby allot to him the Quantity of Lands to which Subalterns are entitled, vizt Two Thousand Acres, which he is authorized to locate in this District—[Signed] J Butler, Peter TenBroeck, R. Hamilton” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 5, Petition Number 157b]

Certificate of Robert Hamilton, J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Muirhead

“This Certifies that the Magistrates of the Home district & the Members of the Land Board, in the year 1790, The Settlement being then exceedingly distressed for the want of Medical Assistance, did Promise to James Muirhead, then Assistant Surgeon in the 60th Regiment, that they would use their utmost efforts to procure for him an Allowance of Lands equal to that of a reduced Subaltern, if he would quit his then Situation, & Settle in that district—And on his Complying with their Request, the Land board did direct Mr Jones the Surveyor, to locate for him Two Thousand Acres of Land—[Signed] R. Hamilton, J. P. & Member of the then Land Board. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 5, Petition Number 157d]


Muirhead, John

The Petition of John Muirhead of Queenstown in the County of Lincoln dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake on 20 Jun 1795

“Most humbly sheweth That Your Excellency’s Petitioner came to reside in this province, from Great Britain, some years ago and has since been employed under the Honorable Robert Grant Esquire in the mercantile profession in order to enter upon that line of business himself when his knowledge of the Country and of business will permit. That your Excellency’s Petitioner intending to become a permanent residenter in this province wishes thro’ the bounty of the Crown and your Excellency’s Goodness, to hold and cultivate Lands therein—Wherefore your Petitioner prays that your Excellency would be pleased to direct the Acting Surveyor General to assign to your Memorialist an allotment of the vacant Lands of the Crown of such Extent as Your Excellency in your Wisdom and Goodness may deem meet & proportionate to the Circumstances and Views of Your Petitioner and your Excellency’s petitioner as in duty will ever pray &c &c &c [Signed] John Muirhead” Added postscript: “N.B the petitioner is Brother to Surgeon James Muirhead of Newark” Received at the Executive Council Office on 21 Jun 1795 and read in Council on 17 Aug. First ordered recommended for 600 acres then ordered inadmissible. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 1, Petition Number 121]

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Muirhead dated at Niagara on 2 Jun 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“The Petition of John Muirhead – Brother of Doctor Muirhead—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 upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792, such 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 400 acres of land if he is of age. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 65]

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Muirhead dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 2 Feb 1797

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner has already Benefited from the Indulgence of Government in a Grant of Four Hundred Acres of Land—with this your Petitioner is well Satisfied, But Thinks Your Honor will Recollect, That the young Men in the same line about Queenston have generally Received 600 acres- To put him on the footing of others is the Sole Wish of Your Petitioner, Therefore Prays that an Additional Two hundred Acres may be granted him – And as in Duty Bound your Petitioner will ever Pray [Signed] Isaac Hurst for John Muirhead” Received at the Executive Council Office on 17 Mar 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 182]


Murphy, John

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Murphy dated at Niagara on 26 Jun 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“The Petition of John Murphy late a Drummer in Butlers Rangers—respectfully shews—That your Petitioner has never received any Land— 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, & subscribed the declaration, that he professes the Christian Religion, and obedience to the laws, and has lived inoffensively in the country. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him 300 acres of land upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792, or such other quantity of land as to your Excellency in your wisdom may think meet. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Received at the Executive Council on 30 Jun and read in Council on 14 Jul. Ordered recommended for three hundred acres of land upon producing his discharge. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 10]


Murphy, Timothy

Upper Canada Land Petition of Timothy Murphy, Smith to the Indian Department at Detroit dated at Detroit on 10 Dec 1795

“Most Humbly sheweth That your memorialist applied near five years ago to Colonel Butler, then at the head of the Land board for the District of Nassau, now the home District, for vacant Lands of the Crown, whereon he might settle, and was informed by him in the presence of Major Powell, to take four hundred Acres at or near a Creek called trading house Creek but since known by the name of Murphy’s Creek near Long Point, until the same could be surveyed when your memorialist should have a grant thereof. That in consequence thereof your memorialist made a settlement there, built a good house thereon and remained on the Premises two Winters. —That being again called into the Kings service at Detroit, your memorialist Let the said Tenement and Premises to Isaac Smith for the Term of four years, who by his agreement who was to clear at least one Acre every year and to allow your memorialist one half the encrease of the Cattle belonging to your memorialist, then on the Farm, as is customary in the Country. That your memorialist has been lately informed, the said Land, Tenement &c are now about to be granted to a person of the name of McMichael, which your memorialist humbly begs to state would be a very considerable loss and a great misfortune to him, should he be so deprived thereof, having been entitled to His Majesty’s gracious bounty from his services since the year 1776 and confidently relying on the promises of Colonel Butler who was at that time principal member of the Land board for the District, under whose authority your memorialist made the settlement—Your memorialist is satisfied your Excellency is heretofore uninformed of these circumstances, and the great distance of his employment altogether precluded him from the Knowledge of any application having been made for the Land which your memorialist considered as his own, on the faith of Colonel Butler. Your Memorialist therefore Petitions your Excellency to order a Grant of the said Premises to be given him and your Petitioner as in Duty bound Will ever Pray [Signed] Timothy Murphy” Received at the Executive Council Office on 26 Jan 1796. Ordered recommended that Mr. McMichael’s grant may be suspended until the Surveyor General makes a report on the premises. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 138]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Timothy Murphy dated at Sandwich (Windsor) on 26 Aug 1797

“Timothy Murphy, Blacksmith to the Indian Departmt begs leave to represent to your Honor, that when the Land board Existed at Niagara; your Memorialist obtained permission to settle himself at Long Point. —previous to the survey of the same, and did therefore build a House, and make Considerable improvements, and resided for some time on the lands. That about four years ago, your Memorialist was called to Detroit, by Colonel McKee, and leased the Premises to Isaac Smith, who was residing on the Same—when Mr McMichael obtained from your Honor a grant of the identical land, your Memorialist had settled upon. —and as your Memorialist is informed is about to obtain a Deed for the same—and in Consequence thereof has ousted the Tennant of your Memorialist who always looked forward to the Confirmation of the said Land by the Government to your Memorialist, who humbly prays that your Honor in Council will be pleased to Consider the case of Your Memorialist and grant him redress by Confirming the said land to your Memorialist. Colonel Powell can certify as to the authority given your Petitioner for Locating the land & the Services and Character of your Memorialist [So] Annexed to a former Memorial signed by Colonel McKee—And your Petitioner as in duty bound will for Ever pray—[Signed] Timothy Murphy” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Mar 1797 and read in Council on 26 Feb 1798. Ordered this petition cannot be taken up upon the bare assertion of the Petitioner who must produce the land boards order with the Surveyor’s specification or assignment of the spot he was authorized to occupy – it is approved McMichael has a patent for the land. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 4, Petition Number 31]

Certificate of R. Pollard, Sheriff of the Western District attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Timothy Murphy

“The Within named Timothy Murphy is a man of good Character—[Signed] R. Pollard Sheriff WD” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 4, Petition Number 31a]

Notation added to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Timothy Murphy

“Dockett Western District Timothy Murphy 49 – 2d […]erity 57 acres – granted in virtue of the possession of 54 in [pmt] for which He prays a grant – […] 300 Acres granted by Govt […] as [….] for his improvement at Long Point” “No 4 – 2d Colchester – No 18 – Do Do” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 4, Petition Number 31e]

Letter from William Dummer Powell to John Beakie attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Timothy Murphy

“My dear sir The enclosed memorandum made at the moment of quitting Sandwich, I only desir[…] this Moment to take the & take the liberty to request that you would present it to [….] at the first Council your truly [Signed] Wm Dummer Powell ]To] J Beekie Esqr” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 4, Petition Number 31e]


Murray, Isabella

Upper Canada Land Petition of Isabel Murray dated at Niagara on 16 May 1788

“The Memorial and Petition of Mrs Bell Murray widow of Lieut Duncan Murray, late of the first Battalion of his Majestys 84th Regiment, as well for herself as in Behalf of Quarter Master John Murray and her other Children by the said Deceased Lieut. Duncan Murray. Humbly Sheweth That the said Deceased Lieut. Duncan Murray served in the said Regiment till it was Disbanded, when he being reduced on half pay, went and Settled with his family near Niagara, where he was unfortunately bruised so much by the fall of a Log of wood on him, that he soon thereafter Died—That sometime before the Reduction of the said Regiment, the said John Murray was appointed Quarter Master, and as such is now on half Pay—That the Memorialist is Informed that his Majesty has been pleased to order lands to be granted to the reduced Officers of said 84th Regiment in the proportions as mentioned in his Royal Proclamation of the 7th October 1783 and in terms of the Instructions given for raising the said Regiment—The Memorialist therefore most humbly Prays your Lordship may be pleased to order lands to be Surveyed and located for the Memorialist, for Behoof of herself and Children at a place near the Eight and between that and the 12 Mile Creek, in the western District near the Fort of Niagara and on the west side of the River, to the amount of Four thousand acres. That is to say, two thousand in right of the said Deceased Lieut. Duncan Murray and two thousand more in right of the said Quarter Master John Murray, over and above what she herself, and each of her other Children may be Entitled to in terms of his Majestys said Proclamation and Instructions and she will ever Pray [Signed] Bell Murray. Referred to the Land Committee by order of the Governor General 3 Jun 1788. Read in Committee the 20th Jun and entered on Minutes. Filed 10 Jun 1788 [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Miscellaneous 1788-1798, Petition Number 114]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Isabella Murray, widow of Lieut Duncan Murray, late of the 84th Regt deceased dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 7 Jun 1796

“Respectfully shews- That your Petitioner’s Husband was killed by accident about Eight years ago—without having received more that 700 acres of the Lands he was entitled to; and that her Son—John Murray who was Quarter Master of the said 84 Regt died at Montreal – which left her without support and unprotected—Your Petitioner therefore prays your Excellency would be pleased to grant her Daughter Elizabeth Murray the remaining 1300 acres which may be due her said Husband, and to herself 1200 acres of Land, or such other Quantity, as to your Excellency shall seem meet & your petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—” [Unsigned] Read in Council on 13 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended that the lands to Lieut. Murray be granted to his Heirs & the Petitioner is recommended by the Committee for 600 acres in consideration of the distressed circumstances in which she has been left. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 45]


Murray, Mary (Jacobs Sigun)

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Sigun received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Apr 1797

“Humbly Sheweth [That y]our Petiti[oner’s father] Served in His Majesty’s 8th Regiment during the American War, and dyed in the Garrison of East Niagara—That you Petitioner’s first Husband Christn Jacobs Served in Col Butlers late Rangers during the American War, and had two children previous to the Year 1789. That your Petitioner’s Husband only drew 200 acres of Land from the land Board, wherefore your Petr Prays your Honor would be pleased to grant her the remaining 100 acres for her late Husband, likewise such quantity for herself and two Children, as your Honor may think proper, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray” Mary Sigun made her mark. “Witness A McN” Received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Apr 1797 and read in Council on 12 May 1797. Ordered the 100 acres prayed for belong to the children who will have them when of age or married. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 1]

Certificate of James Clark Senior dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 11 May 1792 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Sigun

“I do certify that, Roger Murray, the reputed Father of the Bearer Mary Sigun, was many years a Corporal in the Kings (or 8th) Regiment of Foot and that he served in said regiment during the contest with America – [Signed] James Clark Senr To all concerned” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 1b]


Murray, Robert

Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Murray dated at Queenstown on 30 May 1796

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner has resided in this Province for these three years past, during which time he has lived with Mr Robert Hamilton as his Clerk and has uniformly demeaned himself as a Good British Subject—That your Petitioner now finds himself able to improve Lands therefore trusts in the Bounty and Liberality of your Honor in Granting him such a quantity of the unappropriated Lands of the Crown as you in your Wisdom shall think fit and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever Pray. [Signed] Rob: Murray” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Jun 1796 and read in Council on 6 Oct 1796. Ordered 600 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Petition Number 135]


Mustard, James

Mentioned in a note on the reverse of the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Gordon dated at Grimsby on 3 May 1796

“That your Petitioner was an Inhabitant of the State of New Jersey And that in the time of the late war he was known to be a faithful Subject to his Majesty, as he lived in a private place, the persons who came from the British Army to recruit Soldiers staid mutch at his House, he gave them all the assistance in his power to conceal, pilate, & help them off with their men & that by his assistance many very good men were sent to the Army For which he was Prosecuted, Imprisoned, & fined in such a large sum that rendered him unable (when he heard there was a Settlement for Subjects at Niagara) to Remove there with a Small Family or leave them in distress. But sent two of his Children before they ware of age, which are now Settled Inhabitants in this Province. That in the year 1793 he came into this Province with a wife & five Children. And humbly prayeth that your Excellency will grant him Such an allotment of Land as in your wisdom you think he merits. And your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Peter Gordon” Received at the Executive Council Office on 13 Oct. Ordered 300 acres if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 2, Petition Number 8]

Certificate dated 9 Oct 1796 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Gordon

“The Subscribers having been Neighbors to the above Petitioner Peter Gordon, do certify that the facts set forth in the above Petition are true & that some of us were of the number of Recruits mentioned therein [Signed] Jacob Wilcox, Henry Buchner, Jacob Wilson, John Pettit. Certified by [Signed] Nathl Pettit 9 October 1796” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 2, Petition Number 8]

Note on the reverse of the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Gordon

“The above Warrt had been returned for payment of Survey by the Sur Genl D W Smith & I was sent to ye Atty Genls 2d Apl, 1810 by Jas Mustard, Gordon’s son in Law- he having produced a Certe of Privilege from Insp Genl P. P. Acct in favor of Pet. of this date which was with ye Warrant” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 2, Petition Number 8a]

Notation dated 3 Apr 1810 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Gordon

“Peter Gordon O. C. 13 Octr 1796, 300 Acres, warrant dated 8 April 1797. This warrant having been stayed for payment of Survey—it was returned to the Council Office Please issue the order—upon the Enclosed Ticket of Privilege [….] for Mr Small SGO 3 Apl 1810. Sent to A. G. by J. Mustard same Day” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 2, Petition Number 8b]