Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Neagle [sic] of the Township of Bertie dated on 17 Apr 1797
“Humbly shews That your Petitioner has been in the Province six years – and has a wife and Eight Children – that he never applied for any Lands having hitherto lived on 50 acres he purchased in the above named Township, soon after he came into the Province, But finding that tract too small for his numerous family, he humbly prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him such part of the vacant Lands of the Crown as to your Honor may seem meet, and as in duty bound Your Petitioner will ever pray – ” Peter Noagle [sic] made his mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 10 Apr 1797 and read in Council on 16 May. Ordered 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 11]
Certificate of Parshall Terry, J. P. dated on 10 Nov [1796] attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Neagle
“[I] Do hereby Certify that the Bearer Peer Noagle [sic] [h]ath this Day taken the Oath of Elegence to his Majesty As they are Proscribed by Law given Under my hand this 10th of November [1796] to Whoom it may Concern [Signed] Parshall Terry JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 11a]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Abraham Neafe (signed Neaff) of the Township of Sugar Loaf East on Lake Erie received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Jul 1794
“most Humbly Sheweth. That your Petitioner was always a loyal Subject to the Crown & Government of Great Britain and That your Petitioner arrived in this Province from Pennsylvania about four years ago with a Wife and Nine Children, vizt Six Sons & three daughters, and in addition to that Number, the Lord has favoured him with one Son & one Daughter since his arrival in this province. That your Petitioner has received from Government Lot Number Thirty in the Second Concession in the Township of Sugarloaf East aforesaid and no more. That your Petitioner previous to the Survey of the said Township, had erected valuable Improvements on the said Lot, and Lot Number Twenty nine in the same Concession, nearly in equal quantities on either. Your Petitioner therefore most humbly Prayeth, that your Excellency will be pleased to take his Case into Consideration and grant him the said Lot Number Twenty nine to cover an Improvement which your Petitioner has made at the expense of much Labour, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever Pray—[Signed] Abraham Neaff” Received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Jul 1794 and read in Council on 14 Jul 1794. Ordered granted if vacant. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 1, Petition Number 3]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Abigail Near of the Township of Bertie dated on 26 Mar 1833 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“The Petition of Abigail Near of the Township of Bertie in the District of Niagara wife of Jacob Near Humbly Sheweth: That Your Petitioner is the daughter of Charles Anger late of the Township of Bertie, deceased, Yeoman an Enrolled U. E. Loyalist; is married to Jacob Near and has never had any Lands, or Order for Lands, from the Crown—Therefore, Humbly Prays that Your Excellency will be pleased to Grant her Two Hundred Acres of the Waste Lands of the Crown, and permit Joseph Cutter to be her Agent to Locate the same, and take out the Deed when completed—And Your Petitioner, as in duty bound, will ever Pray. [Signed] Abigail Near” Order issued at Government House on 2 Oct 1833: Referred to the Inspector General to report hereon for the information of the Lieutenant Governor in Council. Report of the Inspector General dated 3 Oct 1833: I do not find that the Petitioner has received any Lands as DUE. Read in the Executive Council on 3 Oct 1833. Ordered recommended. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 17, Petition Number 17]
Certificate of James Muirhead dated 26 Mar 1833 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Abigail Near
“District of Niagara. To Wit:} The above Petitioner maketh oath and saith that she is the Person she describes herself to be in the above Petition, and has never had any Lands or Order for Lands from the Crown. Heard in General Quarter Sessions of the Peace at Niagara this 26th Day of March 1833. And I do hereby Certify that the above was read over and explained to Deponent, and that she seemed perfectly to understand the same. [Signed J. Muirhead, Chairman, [Signed] Abigail Near” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 17, Petition Number 17]
Certificate of George Anger appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Abigail Near
“District of Niagara. To Wit:} I do Certify that Abigail Near the above named Petitioner is the Person she describes herself to be in the above Petition, and has never had any Lands or Order for Lands, from the Crown, to the best of my knowledge and belief [Signed] George Anger” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 17, Petition Number 17]
Certificate of James Muirhead Esquire and Charles Richardson, Esquire dated on 29 Mar 1833 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Abigail Near
“District of Niagara.} We, James Muirhead Esquire, Chairman, and Charles Richardson, Clerk of the Peace, do hereby Certify that Abigail Near who Personally appeared at the General Quarter Sessions of the Peace, this Day, was recognized by the Magistrates to be the daughter of Charles Anger late of Bertie, deceased – who retained his Loyalty during the late War, without aiding or assisting the Enemy. Dated this twenty-ninth day of March 1833. — [Signed] Charles Richardson, Clerk of the Peace; J. Muirhead, Chairman.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 17, Petition Number 17]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Neafe dated at Niagara on 8 Aug 1796
“The Petition of Henry Neafe – of the Township of Humberstone of the age of 24 years – or thereabout Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is son of Abraham Neafe – of the above mentioned Township – that he has been six years in the Province, and never located any Lands. – prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 200 acres in the above Township and your Petitioner as in Duty bound shall ever pray—[Unsigned] Added notation of Thomas Ridout, N. P. “I do hereby certify that Henry Neafe personally applied to me for the above petition [Signed] T. Ridout” Received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Sep and read in Council on 8 Oct 1796. Ordered 200 acres if none granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 7]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Nier [signed Near] Senior of the Township of Bertie dated on 22 Oct 1796
“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner was a Loyalist during the late war in America, and came to this Country with his wife & Six Children so early as the year 1785, that he has already received 200 acres, but Prays your Honor will grant him an additional Quantity of fifty acres for his wife & fifty for each child and as in duty Bound Your Petitioner will ever Pray [Signed] Henry Near” Received at the Executive Council Office on 28 Apr 1797 and read in the Executive Council on 2 May 1797. Ordered 350 acres for family lands if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 1]
Certificate of Parshall Terry, J. P. dated on 26 Jan 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Nier
“I Cartify that Henry Near Came into this province with a wife and five Children in the year 1785 and that he had one more Child born in the year 1787 he is an Honnest industress man Given Under my hand this 26 day of January 1799 [Signed] Parshall Terry JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 1a]
Notation of John Scarlett, I. G. G. P. P. A. dated on 9 Jan 1815 to John Small, Clerk of the Executive Council
“The Petitioner Henry Near is not on the U. E. List. He was formerly privileged as M. C. for 200 acres of land in Bertie by the late Inspector General with this remark “Joined General Burgoyne” [Signed] J Scarlet I. G. G. P. P. A. [To] John Small Esq” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 1a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Near of the Township of Bertie dated in October 1816
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner was regularly Inlisted and Sworn in for His Majestys Service by Thomas Betson a Captain in his Majestys Service in the then Colony of New York, in the year 1777. That your Petitioner Came into this Province with his family in the year 1786 and has been resident therein ever Since. Wherefore your Petitioner prays that your Excellency may be pleased to order that his name be placed on the U. E. List and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray” Henry Near made his mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 17 Feb 1817 and read in Council on 9 Sep 1818. Ordered that the Petitioner state what he was before enlisted, and to adduce proof that Thomas Betson was a Captain. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 11, Petition Number 20]
Certificate of John Warren, J. P. dated at Bertie Twp. on 3 Jul 1816 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Near
“Personally came before me John Warren Esquire one of his Majestys Justices of the Peace for the Niagara District Jacob Hoffman of the Township of Bertie in Said District who being duly Sworn deposeth and Saith that Henry Near of the Township of Bertie in Said District, John Near of the Township of Humberstone in Said District and himself were Inlisted and Sworn in in [sic] the year 1777 by Thomas Betson a Captain in his Majestys Service in the then Colony of New York to Serve his Majesty in the defense of his Colony against the Rebels – The deponent further Says that the said Henry Near was appointed a Serjeant of the company under the command of Said Captain Betson that in a
short time after they had been Inlisted as aforesaid the said Henry Near by the orders of Said Captain Betson warned the deponant & John Near aforesaid and the rest of the Company to appear with their Army &c at Tockoconeck in the then Colony of New York to meet the Enemy who was then advancing against Livingston Manour – that in pursance of the Said Notice or warning the Deponant the Said Henry Near and the Said John Near did join their Company at Tockoconeck aforesaid under the Command of Said Captain Betson and that they were joined by Several other Company Inlisted in like manner to serve his Majesty, as they were Sworn before me at Bertie the 3d July 1816—} [Signed] J Warren J. P.” Jacob Hoffman made his mark and seal. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 11, Petition Number 20a]
Certificate of John Warren, J. P. dated at Bertie Twp. on 3 Jul 1816 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Near
“I beg leave to Certify that Henry Near aged Seventy one Years, has resided nearly Thirty Years in the Township of Bertie and that John Near aged Sixty Three Years has resided Eighteen years in the Township of Humberston and that they are both honest Sober and industrious Inhabitants and that their Sons were active and faithful in the discharge of their militia duty during the late war. Witness my hand at Bertie the 3d day of July 1816— J Warren Lt Colonel 3d Lincoln Militia” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 11, Petition Number 20c]
Undated Certificate of Ralfe Clench and Isaac Swayze attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Near
“District of Niagara — We do Certify that Henry Near came to this Province Jany of 1786 has been a constituent resident a loyal and good Man—John Near came to the Province in August 1798 is also a good loyal subject and has been a resident ever since he first came to the Province [Signed] Ralfe Clench, Isaac Swayze” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 11, Petition Number 20c]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Near Jr. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 28 Apr 1797
“humbly sheweth That your Honor’s Petitioner came with his Father into this Province eleven years ago, that he is of age, has taken the oaths of allegiance to His Majesty, & that he has never received any land – He therefore humbly prays that your Honor would be pleased to give him a grant of such a portion of the vacant lands of the Crown, as to your Honor in your wisdom may appear meet, & your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray” Henry Near made his mark. “Witness Alexr McDonell” Received at the Executive Council Office on 28 Apr 1797 and read in Council on 2 May. Ordered 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 6]
Certificate of Parshall Terry, J. P. dated on 26 Jan 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Near Jr.
“I Do hereby Certify that Henry Near Junyer hath this [day] Came and hath taken oaths of Elegence to his Majesty before Me as they are Proscribed by law given Under my hand this 26 day of January 1797 [Signed] Parshall Terry JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 2b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Near Junior of the Township of Humberstone Yeoman dated at York (Toronto) on 12 April 1824
“Humbly Sheweth That Your Petitioner was born in the State of New York but has lived in the Province ever since he was 9 Years of age, and is now 33 Years of age. That he has a Family of a Wife and 5 Children and has never been in any other employment than farming. That he has taken the Oath and did his duty in the Militia during the late war as appears by Certificates hereto annexed. That he never before applied for any Land from the Crown and being of ability and desirous to settle upon and improve a Lot of 200 Acres of the waste Lands Your Petitioner humbly prays Your Excellency will be pleased to grant him 200 acres of Land paying fees – And Your Petitioner will ever pray.” Henry Near Junr made his mark. Order dated at Government House, York on 13 Apr 1824: Referred to the Surveyor General to report hereon for the information of the Honorable Executive Council. Report of Thomas Ridout, Surveyor General dated at the Surveyor General’s Office on 14 Apr 1824: I do not find that the Petitioner has received any land, or Order for land. Read in the Executive Council on 14 Apr 1824. Ordered recommended 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 14, Petition Number 6]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Near dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 28 Apr 1797
“humbly sheweth That your Honor’s Petitioner came with his Father into the Province eleven years ago, that he is of age, has taken the oaths of allegiance to His Majesty, & that he has never received any land—He therefore humbly prays that your Honor would be pleased to give him a grant of such a portion of the waste lands of the Crown, as to your Honor in your wisdom may appear meet, & your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray” Jacob Near made his mark “Witness – [Signed] Alexr McDonell” Received at the Executive Council Office on 28 Apr 1797 and read in Council on 2 May 1797. Ordered 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 2]
Certificate of Parshall Terry, J. P. dated on 26 Jan 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Near
“I Do hereby Certify that Jacob Near Came this day and hath taken oaths of Elegence to his Majesty before Me as they are proscribed by law given under My hand this 26 day of January 1797 [Signed] Parshall Terry JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 2b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Near of the Township of Humberstone dated October 1816
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner was regularly Inlisted and Sworn in for his majestys Service by Thomas Betson a Captain in his Majestys service in the then Colony of New York in the year 1777. That your Petitioner came into this Province with his family in the Year 1797 and has been resident therein ever Since—Wherefore Your Petitioner prays that your Excellency may be pleased to order that his name be on the U. E. List and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] Johannes Near” Received at the Executive Council Office on 17 Feb 1817 and read in Council on 9 Sep 1818. Ordered it appears by a certificate in Henry Near’s petition that this Petitioner came into the Province after the time limited to be placed on the UE List therefore his prayer cannot be granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 11, Petition Number 21]
Certificate of John Warren, J. P. dated at Bertie Twp. on 3 Jul 1816 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Near
“Personally came before me John Warren Esquire one of his Majestys Justices of the Peace for the Niagara District Jacob Hoffman of the Township of Bertie in Said District who being duly Sworn deposeth and Saith that Henry Near of the Township of Bertie in Said District, John Near of the Township of Humberstone in Said District and himself were Inlisted and Sworn in in [sic] the year 1777 by Thomas Betson a Captain in his Majestys Service in the then Colony of New York to Serve his Majesty in the defense of his Colony against the Rebels – The deponent further Says that the said Henry Near was appointed a Serjeant of the company under the command of Said Captain Betson that in a short time after they had been Inlisted as aforesaid the said Henry Near by the orders of Said Captain Betson warned the deponant & John Near aforesaid and the rest of the Company to appear with their Army &c at Tockoconeck in the then Colony of New York to meet the Enemy who was then advancing against Livingston Manour – that in pursance of the Said Notice or warning the Deponant the Said Henry Near and the Said John Near did join their Company at Tockoconeck aforesaid under the Command of Said Captain Betson and that they were joined by Several other Company Inlisted in like manner to serve his Majesty, as they were Sworn before me at Bertie the 3d July 1816—} [Signed] J Warren J. P.” Jacob Hoffman made his mark and seal. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 11, Petition Number 20a]
Certificate of John Warren, J. P. dated at Bertie Twp. on 3 Jul 1816 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Near
“I beg leave to Certify that Henry Near aged Seventy one Years, has resided nearly Thirty Years in the Township of Bertie and that John Near aged Sixty Three Years has resided Eighteen years in the Township of Humberston and that they are both honest Sober and industrious Inhabitants and that their Sons were active and faithful in the discharge of their militia duty during the late war. Witness my hand at Bertie the 3d day of July 1816— J Warren Lt Colonel 3d Lincoln Militia” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 11, Petition Number 20c]
Undated Certificate of Ralfe Clench and Isaac Swayze attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Near
“District of Niagara — We do Certify that Henry Near came to this Province Jany of 1786 has been a constituent resident a loyal and good Man—John Near came to the Province in August 1798 is also a good loyal subject and has been a resident ever since he first came to the Province [Signed] Ralfe Clench, Isaac Swayze” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 11, Petition Number 20c]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Near of Bertie dated at York (Toronto) on 9 Jun 1802
Humbly sheweth That your petitioner is the Daughter of Nicholas Huffman of the above named Township, a Loyalist UE – and wife of Henry Near and has lived about Sixteen years in this Province – That your petitioner having never received any Lands, she humbly prays your Excellency would be pleased to grant her 200 acres, His Majestys benevolence to persons of her Description – and as in duty bound your petitioner shall ever pray” Henry Near made his mark for his wife Mary Near. Received at the Executive Council Office on 14 Jun 1802. Lieutenant Governor’s Office York 19 June 1802. “The Clerk of the Council has not made the usual Endorsement that the Father of the Petitioner is on the U. E. List, and that she has not received any Lands.” Added note of the Clerk: “Mary Near, of Bertie Daur of Nicholas Huffman. The name of Nicolas Huffman appears on the U. E. List.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle Miscellaneous 1797-1811, Petition Number 4]
Certificate of Alexander Wood dated 9 Jun 1802 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Near
“Personally appeared before me – Alexander Wood Esquire, one of His Majestys Justices of the Peace for the Home District the above named Henry Near, who made oath that Mary Near, the petitioner is the person she describes herself to be, and has never received any Lands or order for Lands from the Crown—Sworn before me at York this 9th Day of June 1802 [Signed] Alexander Wood J. P. Witness [Signed] Saml McKey” Henry Near made his mark. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle Miscellaneous 1797-1811, Petition Number 4]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Neher of Markham Yeoman dated at York (Toronto) on 8 Jul 1806
“Humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner has been about Eight years in the Province, and has property to the amount of One Hundred pounds province Currency – that he has taken the oath of allegiance, and is desirous to occupy and improve a vacant Lot of Land of the Crown, that he is prepared and undertakes in case his petition shall be favourably answered, to pay within three days from the date of your Honors order in Council into the Hands of His Majestys Receiver General of this Province, as well the whole of the fees allowed by His Majesty to be charged on the Patent that is to issue, all the fees of Survey and your petitioner will within the same period produce to the Clerk of the Executive Council the Receiver Generals Receipt for such fees – and Your Petitioner will also attend the Secretary of the Province within twenty one days from the date of your Honors order in Council to take out such deed—wherefore Your Petitioner prays your Honor may be pleased to grant him 200 acres of the waste Lands of the Crown under the Regulations acted upon 6 July 1804 & as in duty Bound he will ever pray— [Signed] Peter Neher” Received at the Executive Council Office on 8 Jul 1806. Received at the President’s Office, York on 8 Jul 1806 and referred to the Executive Council by order of the President. Read in Council on 8 Jul 1806. Ordered the Petitioner Peter Neher recommended for a grant of two hundred acres of land under the regulations acted upon 6 Jul 1804. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 6, Petition Number 4]
Certificate of William Robinson dated on 8 Jul 1806 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Neher
“I do Certify that I have known Mr Peter Neher for two years and always has been a very industrious Man and a very good Neighbour and I never heard of any thing to the contrary from any of his Neighbours that has ever been acquainted with him [Signed] Wm Robinson” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 6, Petition Number 4b]
Receipt issued by the Receiver General’s Office dated 8 Jul 1806 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Neher
“No. 251 Peter Neher has paid into this Office Six Pounds nineteen Shillings and Four Pence Sterling, being the Patent Fee, according to the Regulation of the 9th January, 1804, acted upon the 6th July, 1804, for a Grant of Two Hundred Acres of Land, ordered him in Council, of this date and number, also One Pound four Shillings and Nine Pence Sterling, for the Surveying Fees thereon. [Signed] Peter Russell, Receiver General To The Clerk of the Executive Council.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 6, Petition Number 4c]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Neil of Queenstown dated at Newark on 15 Jul 1795
“Humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner is a native of Ireland and resided in Nova Scotia upwards of three years. That in the year 1784, he came into this Province where he has remained ever since, that he never received any Lands in Nova Scotia, nor has he applied for any in this province. humbly prays your Excellency will be pleased to grant him a portion of the vacant Lands of the Crown therein—Your Petitioner further begs leave to request to your Excellency, that about Three years ago he married one Mary Carrol widow of Robt Carrol who attached himself to His Majestys Forces on their arrival at New York, served with them during the war & afterwards went to Nova Scotia, where he recd about 200 acres, but died, before he made much improvement thereon, and his widow with his two Sons, then came to this Country leaving the Land they had received, without disposing thereof. Your Petitioner therefore prays your Excellency will be pleased to grant such Lands in behalf of his wife and her said children, as to your Excellency may seem meet, and as in Duty bound your Petitioner will ever pray—[Signed] John Neil” Added postscript: “PS. Nathl Pettit Esqr can speak in behalf of your Petitioner as to the matter herein advanced.” Received at the Executive Council Office on 15 Jul 1795 and read in Council on 15 Jul 1795. Ordered two hundred acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 1, Petition Number 7]
Upper Canada Land Petition of George Neill dated on 30 Oct 1794
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner Embodied a number of Loyal Militia in South Carolina in Behalf of his Majesties Crown and Dignity and Served in the Siege of Ninety Six—received a Majors Commission and According to orders acted in Conjunction with Majors Commission of the Country untill he unfortunately fell into the Enemies hands who Deprived him of his Commission and confiscated his Property. Charleston being Evacuated by the British Forces your Petitioner had no prospect of Protection nearer than Nova Scotia or this Province and he Prefered the Latter; who through want of Money was not able to cultivate Lands and so Begs his neglect may be Excused and Flatters himself that his writing to Judge Allison, and his Answer, who was in the Southern Service, Lt Coombs Letter and recommendation will be sufficient Proof that your Petitioner was an Officer in the Loyal Militia and having only a Grant from the Land Board for Two Hundred Acres Prays therefore that It may Please your Excellency to Grant such Allotment of Lands as His Majesty has been graciously Pleased to Order in His Additional Instructions to His Excellency Governor Haldeman to be granted to the Officers of Associated Loyalists according to their Commissions &c or such an Allottment as to your Excellency may seem meet—For which your Petitioner continues to Pray—[Signed] George Neill” Ordered by the Executive Council Office on 1 Nov 1794 for consideration and personal appearance. Petition read in Council on 4 Nov 1794. Ordered he has received 200 acres from the Land Board of himself and recommended for 200 more. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 1, Petition Number 9]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of William Nellis, Warner Nellis & Abraham Nellis (signed Nelles) received at the Executive Council Office on 25 Jun 1793
“Humbly Sheweth. That the Father of your Memorialists was a Captain on half pay and had previous to his death only taken up Eight hundred acres of land, your Memorialists as heirs by will, therefore humbly Pray that your Excellency will be pleased to allow them the remainder of the Lands which their Father as a Captain would have been entitled to and your Petitioners will as in duty bound Ever Pray [Signed] William Nelles, Warner Nelles, Abraham Nelles” Received at the Executive Council Office on 25 Jun 1793 and read in Council on 26 Jun 1795. Ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 1, Petition Number 12]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Abraham and William Nellis dated at Niagara on 24 Jun 1796
“The Petition of Abraham Nellis 20 yr of age & William Nellis—26 years of age- Sons of Henry Nellis – late a Captain in the Indian Department—Respectfully shews- That your Petitioners having never received any Lands on their own account, pray your Excellency would be pleased to grant them such a quantity of the vacant Lands of the Crown as to your Excellency shall seem meet—And Your Petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray—[Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul. Ordered recommended for 400 acres of land each. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 3]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Capt. Abraham Nellis [signed Nelles] received at the Executive Council Office on 8 Apr 1797
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is son to the late Henry Wm Nellis deceased who was a Captain on half Pay, and was settled in this District. Your Petitioner before applied to the Council for a Grant of land and had four hundred Acres allowed him. Your Petitioner has on his Tract near One hundred Acres improved & under high cultivation with the best buildings (for a farm) in the District.) his industry, together with his haveing been a Militia Officer on duty in 94 induces him again to apply to your Honor in Council for an additional quantity, such quantity as to your Honor may appear meet. Your Petitioner hopeing his character if inquired into will be found such as to give satisfaction to your honor and credit to himself and your Petitioner will as in duty Bound Ever Pray [Signed] Abr. Nelles” Received at the Executive Council Office on 8 Apr 1797 and read in Council on 10 May. Ordered 200 acres in addition. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 8]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Charles Anderson dated at Forty Mile Creek on 21 May 1796
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner came to this Province in 1788 brought to this country property to a considerable amount has improved on a lot of Land consisting of One Hundred Acres on the main Road leading from Niagara to Burlington Bay which he purchased; he has expended much Money in his improvement which consists of a Two Storie House and other valuable outbuildings has Fifty acres under Cultive. —Your Petitioner begs leave to observe that he married the Daughter of an Officer who faithfully served His Majesty (Henry W Nelles) who He hopes from the Loyalty of her Parents that she is intitled to Two Hundred Acres of Land according to His Majesty’s most Gracious Gift to women which come under her description. Your Petitioner Prays that Your Excellency will consider him as a natural Born Subject of Great Britian & came to this Country Since the American War wherefore he prays a Grant of one Thousand acres of Land on which he will immediately improve or such other Relief as thro’ your Goodness may seem meet. [Signed] Chas Anderson” Ordered by the Executive Council 200 acres for himself and 200 acres in right of his wife. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 1, Petition Number 36]
Certificate of Executive Council Order attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Charles Anderson
“In Council 5th July 1796 Charles Anderson’s Wife Daughter of Henry W Nellis ordered Two hundred acres.” Added item: “Priviledged DUE [Signed] John White 31st May 1805” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 1, Petition Number 36]
Receipt issued by the Receiver General’s Office 31st May 1805
“William Kennedy for Charles Anderson has paid into this Office £3.5.2 Being the Patent fees on a Grant for 200 acres in Blenheim under OC. 5 July 1796 The Surveying fees to be paid at the Surveyor Generals Office. To the Attorney & Surveyor General [Signed] Peter Russell” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 1, Petition Number 36]
Warrant for Land appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Charles Anderson
“Warrant for Charles Anderson No 998 issued 31st May 1805 by William Kennedy—Warrant for Anne Anderson DUE issue 7th Jun 1805 by Charles Anderson.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 1, Petition Number 36a]
Mentioned in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of John Young Senior received at the Executive Council Office on [20] May 1796
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner was a Lieut. during the late American war, & was one of the first of the Loyalists that came to this place, and brought a wife and three children with him, a daughter, who is since married to Mr Nellis, and two Sons who are both of age, Your Petitioner therefore Humbly prays that the usual grant may be granted him as to other officers of equal rank & that the usual quantity be also granted to his two Sons; Abraham Young & John Young, – your Petitioner at the same time Prays that a quantity may be allowed him for his wife, deceased since the Peace, your Petitioner has one other son born at this place, which should your Excellency see fit to grant any to. Your Petitioner will as in duty Bound Ever Pray [Signed] John Young Senr” Received at the Executive Council Office on [20] May 1796. Ordered Mr. Young not having lodged with us his Commission or Certificate of his family – petition to lie over. Read in Council on 9 Jan 1797. Ordered two thousand acres as a reduced Lieutenant and two hundred and fifty acres for family lands if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “Y” Bundle 2, Petition Number 7]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Nelles of the County of Haldimand, District of Niagara dated on 22 Jun 1801
“Humbly Sheweth that your petitioner is the son of the late Capt Henry Nelles of the Indian Department and that he is of the full age of twenty one years and never has received any Lands nor any order for Lands from the Crown, wherefore he prays that your Excellency will please to grant him the portion that the Son of a U. E. L. is entitled to and your Petitioner as in Duty bound shall ever Pray—[Signed] John Nelles” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 5, Petition Number 3]
Certificate of Richard Beasley, J. P. dated at York on 22 Jun 1801 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Nelles
“Personally appeared before me Richard Beasley one of his Majestys Justice of the Peace for the District of Niagara John Nellis [sic] of the County of Haldimand being duly Sworn on the holy Evangelist of Allmighty God deposed that he is of the full age of twenty One, that he has never received any Lands nor any order for Lands from the Crown—[Signed] John Nelles Sworn before me [Signed] Richard Beasley J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 5, Petition Number 3]
Certificate of Richard Beasley, J. P. dated at York on 22 Jun 1801 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Nelles
“I do hereby certify that the above named John Nellis [sic] is the Person he Describes himself to be and that he never has to my Knowledge And believe received any Lands nor any order for Lands from the Crown—[Signed] Richard Beasley JP” Received and Examined at the Executive Council Office on 23 Jun 1801. Notation: The name of Capt. Henry Nelles appears on the U. E. List. Read in the Executive Council on 23 Jun 1801. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as son of UE. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 5, Petition Number 3]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Priscilla Nellis, widow of Captain Henry William Nellis deceased dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 11 Oct 1796
“Humbly sheweth that her late husband never Received any land to which he might have been intitled for his wife your Petitioner; That your petitioner since his death has not received any to which she might have a claim in virtue of her situation. Your Petitioner Therefore most humbly prays That your Honor would be pleased to grant her such an allowance as you in your Wisdom shall think proper And your petitioner as in duty bound shall ever pray [Signed] Priscilla Nellis” Received at the Executive Council Office on 13 Oct 1796 and read in Council the same day. Ordered 400 acres if none granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 5]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Lieutenant Robert Nellis, late Lieutenant in the Six Nation Indian Department dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 23 Jun 1795
“Humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner has received Five Hundred acres of Land, as part of the Quantity His Majesty has been graciously pleased to allow persons of his Description. He now respectfully requests your Excellency would be pleased to grant him the remainder which may be due him, in any of the unlocated Lands of the Province; and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Robt Nellis” Received in the Executive Council Office on 23 Jun 1795 and read in Council on 26 Jun 1795. Ordered the remainder of the lands due to him as a Lieutenant to be assigned as near his present residence as the Surveyor General can find convenient. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 1, Petition Number 8]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of William Nellis, Warner Nellis & Abraham Nellis (signed Nelles) received at the Executive Council Office on 25 Jun 1793
“Humbly Sheweth. That the Father of your Memorialists was a Captain on half pay and had previous to his death only taken up Eight hundred acres of land, your Memorialists as heirs by will, therefore humbly Pray that your Excellency will be pleased to allow them the remainder of the Lands which their Father as a Captain would have been entitled to and your Petitioners will as in duty bound Ever Pray [Signed] William Nelles, Warner Nelles, Abraham Nelles” Received at the Executive Council Office on 25 Jun 1793 and read in Council on 26 Jun 1795. Ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 1, Petition Number 12]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Warner Nellis received at the Executive Council Office on 25 Jun 1795
“Humbly Sheweth That your Memorialist is Son of the late deceased Cpt Nellis, and has never as yet taken up any land, therefore humbly Prays that your Excellency will be pleased to allow him such a quantity as is granted to other Loyalists, or such quantity as to your Excellency may appear meet And your Memorialist will as in duty Bound Ever Pray. [Signed] Warner Nellis” Received at the Executive Council Office on 25 Jun 1795. Ordered recommended for 600 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 4]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Warner Nellis filed in 1796
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is married to Elizabeth Young, daughter to Lieut. John Young of the late Six Nation Indian Dept and by said marriage has one Child. Your Petitioner therefore humbly Prays that the usual allowance be granted to them as is customary to People of their description. Your Petitioner having for his own land fyled his Petition last Summer in the office of Mr Small and your Petitioner shall as in duty bound Ever Pray [Signed] Warner Nellis” No Executive Council dates on the petition. Ordered recommended for 200 acres in right of his wife the daughter of a Loyalist. Gave a warrant on 13 Oct 1796. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 1]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of William Nellis, Warner Nellis & Abraham Nellis (signed Nelles) received at the Executive Council Office on 25 Jun 1793
“Humbly Sheweth. That the Father of your Memorialists was a Captain on half pay and had previous to his death only taken up Eight hundred acres of land, your Memorialists as heirs by will, therefore humbly Pray that your Excellency will be pleased to allow them the remainder of the Lands which their Father as a Captain would have been entitled to and your Petitioners will as in duty bound Ever Pray [Signed] William Nelles, Warner Nelles, Abraham Nelles” Received at the Executive Council Office on 25 Jun 1793 and read in Council on 26 Jun 1795. Ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 1, Petition Number 12]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Abraham and William Nellis dated at Niagara on 24 Jun 1796
“The Petition of Abraham Nellis 20 yr of age & William Nellis—26 years of age- Sons of Henry Nellis – late a Captain in the Indian Department—Respectfully shews- That your Petitioners having never received any Lands on their own account, pray your Excellency would be pleased to grant them such a quantity of the vacant Lands of the Crown as to your Excellency shall seem meet—And Your Petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray—[Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul. Ordered recommended for 400 acres of land each. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 3]
Mentioned in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Thomas and Mary Welch read in the Executive Council on 12 Jul [1796]
The Humble Petition of Thomas Welch and Mary Welch wife of the said Thomas Welch of the Township of Thorold Most Humbly Sheweth. That your Excellency and Honours were Graciously pleased on the 31st Day of May 1794 to grant leave to Hannah Mitchell mother to the said Mary Welch to locate for and in the name of said Hannah Mitchell Two hundred Acres of Land lying and being with the Township of then Sugar Loaf East now Humberstone, as by the Minutes or order of your Excellency and Honours together with the Acting Surveyor Generals Assignment for 190 Acres part of the 200 Acres aforesaid herewith Exhibitted will appear. And whereas the said Hannah Mitchell is since that time To Wit. in September 1794 Departed this life. And whereas the said Hannah Mitchell previous to her Decease did give and Deliver all her money and affects to her three Daughters Mary Welch, Martha Nevill and Elizabeth Nevill, the said 200 Acres of Land and a Small Sum of Money for the purpose of Improving the same excepted which money your Petitioners have expended in Improving the Land so Granted and Assigned as aforesaid and whereas the said Hannah Mitchell Deceased, did in her life time most Earnestly Request and enjoin of your Petitioners to procure to be Granted under the Great Seal of this Province unto Ephraem Cole Mitchell Grandson of the said Hannah Mitchell Deceased the said two hundred Acres of Land which said Ephraem Cole Mitchell is under the Age of Twenty one years, and is residing with your Petitioners. And whereas the said 190 Acres so Given and Assigned as aforesaid, is so much intersected by a Deep Sunken Swamp, that not much, if any more than the one half thereof is fit for Cultivation. Your Petitioners therefore most Humbly Pray That your Excellency and Honors will be pleased to take the Case of their Nephew the said Ephraem Cole Mitchell into Consideration, and order that a Royal Grant of Confirmation may Issue unto the said Ephraem Cole Mitchell for the Lot Number Twenty four in the first Concession of the Township of Humberstone so Given and assigned to the said Hannah Mitchell now Deceased aforesaid and your Petitioners also further Pray that your Excellency & Honours will also be pleased to allow or Order to be Granted to the said Ephraem C. Mitchell the Lot Number Twenty three in the first Concession of the said Township of Humberstone which is equally intersected by the said Deep Sunken Swamp, and your Petitioners as in Duty bound will ever Pray. [Signed] Thomas Welch, Mary Welch” Read in the Executive Council on 12 Jul [1796]. Ordered if the Petitioners will send the assignment to the Attorney General a deed will issue in course. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 7]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Nevills dated on 3 Jun 1793
“Humbly Sheweth Your Petitioner Settled in this Country in the year 1787 Proved his Loyalty—During the late Rebellion to the Satisfaction of the Commander Major Cromble—And the Rest of my Superiors. I was indulged with Liberty to take up any family land in a body if I Could find it. By inquiry among Some of my Acquaintance Who informed me of three Hundred Acres Which i Built a house of 16 foot Square and Cleared a piece of Medow on sd land and made other Improvements. Your Humble petitioner took the Numbers of sd lotts [unreadable inserted line] to the Surveyor. He Neglected Entering the sd lotts upon the Map or Records. The Improved lott, John Clement has a Certificet for. I Made Application to the Honourable Landboard For Justice But Could Receive no Other Satisfaction than To go to law, for my own Property. I have attended the Honourable land board Sundry times for my Certificate But all to no purpose, and after all Please your Excellency Gave my land to another man through The Surveyors Neglect, your Petitioner Begs your Serious Consideration to afford What means you think most Meet for the Restoring of my land and your Petitioner and His family in Duty Bound Will ever pray. [Signed] James Nevills” Received in the Executive Council Office on 3 Jun 1793. Ordered referred to the Land Board for their report on the merits. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 1, Petition Number 11]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Neville dated at Niagara on 10 May 1796 (using a pre-printed form with fill-ins)
“Petition of James Neville of the Township of Stamford Farmer, who came into the Province in 1787 with a wife & five children (has now nine) and has only received one Hundred acres of Land—Respectfully shews, 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. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him & family an additional quantity of land at Long Point Settlement upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792, or such other quantity of land as to your Excellency in your wisdom may think meet. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 12 May 1796. Ordered granted 400 acres and referred to the Surveyor General for location. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 1, Petition Number 16]
Certificate attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Neville
“James Neville has been located under a Land Board Certificate granting him 200 acres Lot No 80 in the 5th Conn of Stamford being 100 consequent there is […] to him 100 Acres on [..] Order. On the 12th May 1797 he was granted 400 acres which has been stayed for Payment of Survey and the Authority returned to the Council Office […..] of the 400 Acres includes former Grants as the Bearer Jacob Nevil is desirous to pay the Fees and to take out the OC for whatever may be coming to him [Initialed CJR]
Receipt of the Receiver General’s Office dated 3 Feb 1810 attached to Upper Canada Land Petition of James Neville
“James Neville has paid into this office three Pounds five Shillings and two pence Prol
Curry the Patent fee under Regs of 1796 on 400 Acres of Land Ordered him in Council on the 12th May 1776 £3.5.2 Prol Curry for the Receiver General [Signature illegible] [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 1, Petition Number 16b]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Thomas Welch dated at Thorold on 5 Dec 1796
“Sheweth That soon after the arrival of your Petitioner with his Family in this Province in November 1793 with Moses Nevill and John Neville and their Families, The wives of the said John & Moses being Martha and Elizabeth, both [own] Sisters of Mary the wife of your Petitioner, Your Petitioner was encouraged by His Excellency Lieutenant Governor Simcoe to ask for Six hundred Acres of Land for each of the said two Families. That Elizabeth, wife of the said Moses hath Six Children and Martha wife of the said John Two Children. That the said Moses & John are both Loyal and faithful Subjects to His Majesty and have received each Two Hundred Acres of Land in the Township of Humberstone, and are in the opinion of your Petitioner, in a Condition to Cultivate more than Two hundred Acres each. That both the said Moses and the said John are at this time residing and Improving on their respective allotments in Humberstone aforesaid. Your Petitioner therefore most humbly Prayeth That your Honours will be pleased to take the Case of the said Moses Nevill, and of the said John Nevill into Consideration and grant that they may each receive the Additional quantity of Four hundred Acres, or such other quantity of Land to be Located on so much vacant Land lying within the County of Norfolk, as to your Honours Shall seem meet, And Your Petitioner as in Duty Bound will ever Pray. [Signed] Thomas Welch” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Jan 1797 and read in Council on 7 Apr 1797. Ordered deferred till His Excellency’s return. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 81]
Mentioned in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Thomas and Mary Welch read in the Executive Council on 12 Jul [1796]
The Humble Petition of Thomas Welch and Mary Welch wife of the said Thomas Welch of the Township of Thorold Most Humbly Sheweth. That your Excellency and Honours were Graciously pleased on the 31st Day of May 1794 to grant leave to Hannah Mitchell mother to the said Mary Welch to locate for and in the name of said Hannah Mitchell Two hundred Acres of Land lying and being with the Township of then Sugar Loaf East now Humberstone, as by the Minutes or order of your Excellency and Honours together with the Acting Surveyor Generals Assignment for 190 Acres part of the 200 Acres aforesaid herewith Exhibitted will appear. And whereas the said Hannah Mitchell is since that time To Wit. in September 1794 Departed this life. And whereas the said Hannah Mitchell previous to her Decease did give and Deliver all her money and affects to her three Daughters Mary Welch, Martha Nevill and Elizabeth Nevill, the said 200 Acres of Land and a Small Sum of Money for the purpose of Improving the same excepted which money your Petitioners have expended in Improving the Land so Granted and Assigned as aforesaid and whereas the said Hannah Mitchell Deceased, did in her life time most Earnestly Request and enjoin of your Petitioners to procure to be Granted under the Great Seal of this Province unto Ephraem Cole Mitchell Grandson of the said Hannah Mitchell Deceased the said two hundred Acres of Land which said Ephraem Cole Mitchell is under the Age of Twenty one years, and is residing with your Petitioners. And whereas the said 190 Acres so Given and Assigned as aforesaid, is so much intersected by a Deep Sunken Swamp, that not much, if any more than the one half thereof is fit for Cultivation. Your Petitioners therefore most Humbly Pray That your Excellency and Honors will be pleased to take the Case of their Nephew the said Ephraem Cole Mitchell into Consideration, and order that a Royal Grant of Confirmation may Issue unto the said Ephraem Cole Mitchell for the Lot Number Twenty four in the first Concession of the Township of Humberstone so Given and assigned to the said Hannah Mitchell now Deceased aforesaid and your Petitioners also further Pray that your Excellency & Honours will also be pleased to allow or Order to be Granted to the said Ephraem C. Mitchell the Lot Number Twenty three in the first Concession of the said Township of Humberstone which is equally intersected by the said Deep Sunken Swamp, and your Petitioners as in Duty bound will ever Pray. [Signed] Thomas Welch, Mary Welch” Read in the Executive Council on 12 Jul [1796]. Ordered if the Petitioners will send the assignment to the Attorney General a deed will issue in course. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 7]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Thomas Welch dated at Thorold on 5 Dec 1796
“Sheweth That soon after the arrival of your Petitioner with his Family in this Province in November 1793 with Moses Nevill and John Neville and their Families, The wives of the said John & Moses being Martha and Elizabeth, both [own] Sisters of Mary the wife of your Petitioner, Your Petitioner was encouraged by His Excellency Lieutenant Governor Simcoe to ask for Six hundred Acres of Land for each of the said two Families. That Elizabeth, wife of the said Moses hath Six Children and Martha wife of the said John Two Children. That the said Moses & John are both Loyal and faithful Subjects to His Majesty and have received each Two Hundred Acres of Land in the Township of Humberstone, and are in the opinion of your Petitioner, in a Condition to Cultivate more than Two hundred Acres each. That both the said Moses and the said John are at this time residing and Improving on their respective allotments in Humberstone aforesaid. Your Petitioner therefore most humbly Prayeth That your Honours will be pleased to take the Case of the said Moses Nevill, and of the said John Nevill into Consideration and grant that they may each receive the Additional quantity of Four hundred Acres, or such other quantity of Land to be Located on so much vacant Land lying within the County of Norfolk, as to your Honours Shall seem meet, And Your Petitioner as in Duty Bound will ever Pray. [Signed] Thomas Welch” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Jan 1797 and read in Council on 7 Apr 1797. Ordered deferred till His Excellency’s return. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 81]
Upper Canada Land Petition of William Nevills of the Township of Flamboro West dated on 13 May 1820
“Humbly Sheweth, that Your Petitioner has resided in this Province thirty three Years – that during the late war with the United States of America he was in active Militia Service, part of the time as Acting Adjutant – that your Petitioner has never received any lands, or Order for lands from the Crown – That your Petitioner has a family of a wife, and five children (four boys and one girl) and is desirous to obtain a portion of land for actual settlement and improvement, and your Petitioner begs leave further to state that his means will enable him to undertake the improvement of four hundred acres—Whereupon he humbly prays that your honor will be favourably pleased to take his case into consideration and grant him such a quantity of the waste lands of the crown, paying fees, as your Honor in your wisdom may think meet—and that A. Mercer of York may be permitted to be his agent to pay the fees and locate – and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] William Nevills 13th May 1820” Read in the Executive Council on 17 May 1820 and ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 12, Petition Number 49]
Certificate of Major Titus G. Simons dated on 22 Apr 1820 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Nevills
“Flambo Collage 22nd April 1820 I do hereby Certify that the bearer Quarter Master William Nevells of the late 2nd York Regt of Militia Served in the Regiment under My Command, as Acting Adjutant on the Niagara Frontier in the Campaign of 1812 from the 17th Octr to 27th December – Mr Nevells is a respectable young man and on all occasions during the late war evinced a laudable zeal in his County’s cause. Given under my hand [Signed] Titus G. Simons, Major 2nd York Militia” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 12, Petition Number 49b]
Certificate of Captain James McGibbon dated on 17 May 1820 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Nevills
“York 17th May 1820. I certify that William Nevills Qr Master in the 2d Gore Militia upon more than one occasion during the late War Volunteered his sevices under My Command and conducted himself under my command and conducted himself while with me with much zeal and activity. [Signed] James McGibbon Captn H. P. [….] Lt Mp” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 12, Petition Number 49e]
Certificate of James Crooks dated on 12 May 1820 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Nevills
“Wt Flambro 12th May 1820 – Dear Sir; The bearer Mr William Nevill, being on his way to York to apply for a Grant of Land, has requested me to say what I know of him, which, indeed is every thing favourable, since I have lived in this part of the country, and from the uniform information of all around me, I have no doubt but M. Nevill conducted himself in a praise worthy manner throughout the whole of the late war with the United States, and for some time acted as Adjt of the 2nd Regt of York militia. I was well acquainted with his Father, who bore the name of James and lived in Thorold, in the Niagara District. Should the Honble the Executive Council think for to extend His Majestys bounty to M. N. I have every cause to think it will be bestowed on a very deserving object – I beg you will excuse the liverty I have taken in addressing you & that you will believe me to be – very truly your most obet Servt [Signed] Jas Crooks” Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 12, Petition Number 49g]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Aaron Stringer dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 16 May 1797
“The Petition of Aaron Stringer in behalf of His wife Elizabeth the Daughter of a Loyalist Respectfully Shews—That She has never drawn any Land, & Prays Your Honor will please to grant her 200 Acres, & yr Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever Pray – [Signed] Aaron Stringer” Received at the Executive Council Office on 16 May 1797 and read the same day. Ordered the Petitioner’s name is not in the UE List. This order was crossed out and a new order issued: Ordered 200 acres to the Petitioner the daughter of a U. E. Loyalist if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 141]
Certificate of John Reilly J. P. dated at Stamford on 15 May 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Aaron Stringer
“I do Certify that Elizabeth the Wife of Aaron Stringer is the daughter of William Newberry late a Serjeant Coll Butlers Rangers [Signed] John Reilly J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 141b]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Rodolph Roche dated at Niagara on 31 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“The Petition of Rodolph Roch a native of Germany—who served Six years in the German Troops commanded by Genl J Redeisal in the American war. —Respectfully Shews – That your Petitioner having never received any certificate for Land, prays your Excellency would be pleased to grant him 300 acres And such Lands as his wife the widow of Wm Newberry late Serjeant in Butlers Rangers & her 4 children by him may be entitled to, they having never recd any- And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Added note: “The Petitioner has also Three children by his present wife, late widow of Wm Newberry” Read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul. Ordered recommended to make up 300 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 2, Petition Number 1]
Certificate of Ralfe Clench, Lieutenant in Butlers Rangers dated at Newark 30 May 1796 Upper Canada Land Petition of Rodolph Roche
“The Bearer Rudolphe Roche is married to the widow of the late Serjt Wm Newberry of Butlers Rangers, who was hanged by the Americans on the Mohawk River, during the late War, – he left Four Children One Boy and Three girls one of whom is married to Aaron Stringer [Signed] Ralfe Clench Lt Late Rangers” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 2, Petition Number 1b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Newkirk of Grantham Township dated in Niagara on 15 Aug 1808
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioners Father Cornelius Newkirk came to this Province in the year 1782 – and settled in the Township of Grantham where he died in the year 1786 and brought a Family of Four Sons and one Daughter. Two of said Sons having served as Private Soldiers in Butlers Rangers. Your Petitioner was a Child at the time and his and his father was a lame Man not fit for a soldier. Your Petitioner Humbly prays that his Father may be taken into Consideration and that his name may be Inserted on the U. E. list and Your Petitioner as in duty Bound Will Ever Pray. Niagara 15th August 1808” Benjamin Newkirk made his mark. [Signed] Robert Kerr J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 4]
Executive Council Notes on the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Newkirk
Received in the Executive Council Office on 24 Nov 1808. Read in Council on 6 Dec 1808. “It appears by the Petition of James Newkirk & the certificate of John McNabb that Cornelius Newkirk the Father of the Petitioner came into the Province in the year 1786 & not in the year 1782 as stated in the within Petition. The prayer of the Petitioner cannot be recommended” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 4]
Deposition of Abraham Clendennin attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Newkirk
“District of Niagara} Personally appeared before me Robert Kerr Esqr One of His Majestys Justices of the Peace for the District of Niagara Abraham Clendennin of the Township of Grantham, Farmer who being duly Sworn on Oath Deposeth and saith that Cornelius Newkirk late of Grantham was […] Father to the Petitioner & came to Niagara in the year one thousand Seven Hundred and Eighty Two and deceased believes in the year one thousand Seven Hundred and Eighty Six and further the Deponent saith not. Sworn before me at Niagara in Upper Canada this 15th day of August 1808 [Signed] Robert Kerr J. P.} [Signed] Abraham Clendennin” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 4a]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Elizabeth Newkirk received at the Executive Council Office on 24 Mar 1797
“Humbly shews—That your petitioner is daughter of Robert Bessy Loyalist who had several Sons who served in His Majestys Service—That your petitioner is married to James Newkirk also a Loyalist—prays your Honor would be pleased to allow her such a grant of Land as is generally given to those of her description and your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] James Newcark for Elizabeth Newcark” Added footnote: “NB your Petitioners Brothers Robert & Jacob served in Col Butlers Rangers” Received at the Executive Council Office on 24 Mar 1797 and read the same day. Ordered 200 acres the daughter of a loyalist. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 13]
Certificate of John McNabb, J. P. dated 24 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Elizabeth Newkirk
“I do hereby Certify that Elizabeth Newkirk the wife of James Newkirk is the Daughter of Robert Bessy a Loyalist—Given under my hand the 24th day of March 1797—John McNabb J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 13b]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Elizabeth Dolsen, wife of Daniel Dolsen of Raleigh Township received on 27 Jan 1840
“Humbly Sheweth That Your Petitioner is the Daughter of the late Samuel Newkirk, late of the Township of Raleigh a U. E. Loyalist, that she has attainted the full age of Twenty one years, and has never received any Land, nor Order for Land from the Crown. Wherefore Your Petitioner prays that Your Excellency may be pleased to grant her Two hundred acres of the Waste Lands of the Crown, as the daughter of a U. E. Loyalist. And Your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray. [Signed] Elizabeth Dolsen” Received in the office of the Secretary on 27 Jan 1840. Read in the Executive Council on 20 Feb 1840. Ordered recommended [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 22, Petition Number 20]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Newkirk of Raleigh Township in the Western District, Yeoman dated in York (Toronto) on 14 Feb 1810
“Humbly sheweth, That Your Petitioner’s Father the late Samuel Newkirk, of the said Township of Raleigh, deceased = Resided in the Province of New York in America before the breaking out of the Revolution, that he joined the Royal Standard in the year 1780 and served His Majesty as a Private Soldier in Butler’s Rangers until he was Discharged on the 24th day of June 1784, that he settled soon after on Lot No 11 in the front of the said Township of Raleigh until he was unfortunately killed by the fall of a Tree which happened before the forming of the UE List and his Name has never been inserted thereon. Wherefore your Petitioner humbly prays that Your Excellency may be pleased to order the Name of the said Samuel Newkirk to be inserted on the UE List. And Petitioner will ever pray, — [Signed] James Newkirk” Received in the Executive Council Office on 15 Feb 1810. Read in Council on 16 Feb 1810. Ordered recommended that the name of Samuel Newkirk be inserted on the UE list. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 7]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Newkirk of Raleigh Township in the Western District yeoman dated in York (Toronto) on 19 Feb 1810
“Humbly Sheweth, That your Petitioner is the Son of the late Samuel Newkirk late of Raleigh deceased a UE Loyalist. That he is upwards of Twenty One years of Age. That he has taken the Oath of Allegiance a Certificate whereof is hereto annexed, and that he has never received any Land or order for Land from the Crown as the Son of a UE Loyalist. Your Petitioner therefore humbly prays that Your Excellency in Council would be pleased to grant him Two Hundred Acres of the waste lands of the Crown as Son of a Loyalist. And your Petitioner will as in duty bound ever pray. [Signed] James Newkirk. Your Petitioner further prays that Mr Thomas Hamilton of York may be permitted to be his agent to locate the Lands that may be granted him and to receive the Patent for the same when completed. York 19 February 1810 [Signed] James Newkirk” Received in the Executive Council Office on 19 Feb 1810. Read in Council on 20 Feb 1810. Ordered recommended for 100 acres of land to complete 200 acres as the son of a U. E. Loyalist. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 8]
Certificate of Thomas McCrae J. P. dated 31 Jan 1810 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Newkirk
“Western District Upper Division} Personally appeared before me Thomas McCrae Esqr one of his majestes Justices assigned to preside in Said District, James Newkirk, who hath taken the oath of allegiance to his present majesty Geo. the third – as witness my Hand at Raleigh this 31st day of Jan 1810 [Signed] Thos McCrae J. P. W. D.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 8a]
Certificate of Thomas McCrae dated in Raleigh Township, Kent County on 30 Jan 1810 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Newkirk
“I do hereby Certify that I was personally present on the 26th September 1788 when Commissioner Grant married Samuel Newkirk and Elisabeth Brown and that the Bearer hereof James Newkirk is the Eldest son of the aforesaid Samuel and Elizabeth Given under my hand at Raleigh this 30th Jany 1810 [Signed] Thos McCrae” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 8b]
Certificate of Thomas McCrae dated in Raleigh Township, Kent County on 30 Jan 1810 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Newkirk
“Western District Upper Canada} Personally appeared before me Thomas McCrae Esquire one of his majestes Justices of the Peace assigned to Keep the peace in the said District Isaac Dolson Senr who maketh oath upon the Holy evangelists That he was personaly present on the 26th September 1788 when Commodore Grant married Samuel Newkirk and Elizabeth Brown. And that the bearer hereof James Newkirk is the Eldest Son of the aforesaid Samuel & Elizabeth Newkirk. Given under my hand at Raleigh this 30th day of January 1810 — Sworn before me this 31st day of January in the Year of Our Lord 1810 [Signed] Thomas McCrae J P W D} [Signed] Isaac Dolson” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 8c]
Certificate of James Newkirk dated 10 Feb 1810 attached to his Upper Canada Land Petition
“James Newkirk of the Township of Raleigh in the Western District Yeoman maketh oath and saith that he is the Son of Samuel Newkirk late of the same Township deceased. That he is upwards of Twenty One years of Age and that he has never received any Land or Order for Land from the Crown to the best of his knowledge and belief as the son of a UE Loyalist. Sworn before me at York this 10th Day of February 1810 [Signed] Alexander Wood J. P.} [Signed] James Newkirk” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 8d]
Upper Canada Land Petition of James Newkirk of Raleigh Township dated in York (Toronto) 19 Feb 1810
“Humbly Sheweth, That Your Petitioner’s Father the late Samuel Newkirk of the said Township of Raleigh, deceased, served His Majesty during the Rebellion in America as a Private Soldier in Butler’s Rangers from which Corps he was Discharged on the 24th June 1784, that he settled soon after the War on Lot No 11 in front of Raleigh which lot has been allowed to Your Petitioner and his Sister vizt 100 Acres to each as part of their Lands as the children of a UE Loyalist, that Your Petitioner’s Father was unfortunately Killed by the fall of a Tree soon after He settled on the said Land, and never received an[y] Land or Order for Land from the Crown. Wherefore Your Petitioner prays that Your Excellency may be pleased to Order Three hundred Acres of Land to be Granted in the Name of his Father, Samuel Newkirk as a Military Claimant. And Petitioner will ever pray [Signed] James Newkirk, York 19 Feb 1810” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 9]
Executive Council Notes on the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Newkirk
“Received from himself 19th February 1810.” “To Messrs Chewett & Ridout Acting Surveyors General Be please to Report what Lands if any have been Granted for Samuel Newkirk the Father of the Petitioner [Signed] John Baikie Actg Clerk” “It does not appear that Samuel Newkirk has received any authority for Land, except for Lot No 58 in the Township of Colchester which was surrendered, and granted by the Land Board of the District of Hesse, on the 4th May 1792. That Little Lot No 11 in the front of Raleigh is entered in the name of the Widow Newkirk, and was allowed under the Western Commission in 1798 to James and Elizabeth Newkirk – S. G. O. 19th Feby 1810 — Chewett & Ridout Actg Surveyrs Genl” “It appears that Samuel Newkirks heirs, are entitled to such lands as he would have received as attending claimant had he lived [Signed] Thos Scott, IGPPas – 25 Feby 1810” “Read in Council Feby 22d 1810 Recommended that three hundred acres of Land be located to Samuel Newkirk, Decd as a military Claimant [Signed] Thos Scott Chairman Approved Francis Gore Lt Gor” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 9]
Certificate of Allan McDonald dated in York (Toronto) on 15 Feb 1810 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Newkirk
“Personally came before me Alexander Wood One of His Majestys Justices of the Peace for the Home District, Allan McDonald of the Township of Gainsborough in the District of Niagara, who made Oath on the Holy Evangelists that he was personally acquainted with Samuel Newkirk late of the River Thames in the western District and that he the said Samuel Newkirk joined the Royal Standard and was attached to a Corps of Rangers Commanded by the late Colonel Butler in the year 1778 – and that the said Samuel Newkirk resided in the Province of Upper Canada from the year 1779 untill the day of his death — Sworn before me at York the 15th Feby 1810 [Signed] Alexander Wood J. P.} [Signed] Allan McDonal” Memo. Allan McDonald previously appeared declared that the Petitioners father joined the Standard in the now State of N York in 1778 — with his […] W D. P-“ [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 9a]
Discharge Papers of Samuel Newkirk dated at Niagara on 24 Jun 1784 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of James Newkirk
“By John Butler Esqr Lieut. Colonel Commandant of the Corps of Rangers &c. These Are to Certify that the bearer hereof Samuel Newkirk Private in Captain William Caldwell’s Company of the above Corps hath served honestly and faithfully for the Space of Four Years, but in Consequence of his Majestys orders for discharging the Said Corps he is hereby discharged, and is Intitled by his Majestys Late order to the portion of Land slotted to Each private Soldier of his provincial Corps Who whishes to become A Settler in this province, he having first received all his pay, Arrears of pay, Clothing and all other Just dues and Demands, from the day of his Inlisting into the before Mentioned Corps of Rangers, to the present day of his discharge As appears by his receipt on the Back hereof. Given under My hand at Niagara rgua 24th day of June 1784 [Signed] John Butler Lt Col Commat” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 9b]
Receipt of Samuel Newkirk on the reverse of his Discharge Papers
“I Do Hereby Acknowledge to have received my pay Arrears of pay Clothing And all the Just dues and demands from my Colonel and Captain from the day of my Inlistment into the within Mentioned Corps of Rangers to the present day of my discharge. Witness My hand at Niagara – 24th day of June 1784, [Signed] Samuel Newkirk” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 9, Petition Number 9c]
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]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Ninian Newkirk dated at Port Talbot on 10 Mar 1847
“Humbly sheweth. That your Petitioner was located for one Hundred Acres of land in the Township of Raleig [sic] in the year 1828 by the Honourable Colonel Talbot, subject to settlement duties, which are performed, And prays that your Excelency will grant him the same, As he is now ready to pay the office fees, And your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray. [Signed] Ninian Newkerk Port Talbot 10th March 1847} Recommended by Thomas Talbot Supert I certify that Ninian Newkerk has taken the oath of allegiance before me—Thomas Talbot J. P.” N ½ 8th in 7th Con. Received in the Executive Council Office on 18 Jan 1849 and read in Council on 27 Jan 1849 Ordered Recommended. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 5, Petition Number 5]
Note of the Crown Lands Department on the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ninian Newkirk
“The Petitioner was located & entered for the North half of Lot number Eight in the Seventh Concession of the Township of Raleigh containing one hundred Acres and as it appears from the accompanying Certificate under the hand of the Honble Colonel Talbot that the conditions of Settlement have been fulfilled it is recommended that the location be confirmed by Order in Council and the Crown fees having been deposited that a Patent be prepared. Crown Land Department Montreal 20 January 1849} [Signed] JSW Vile” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 5, Petition Number 5]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Ninian Newkirk dated in Toronto on 15 Jan 1857
“Humbly sheweth That he has been long in possession and done extensive improvements on Lot Number nine in the sixth concession of Raleigh as shown in affidavits filed in the office of the Commissioner of Crown Lands at Toronto, that he has by such improvements given value to adjoining crown Lands which before were worthless. Your petitioner therefore humbly prays that your Excellency in council will be pleased to direct that said Lot be sold to him at two shillings per acre in consideration of said improvements. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray. Ninian Newkirk by his Attorney [Signed] A S Holmes Toronto Jany 15th 1857” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 8, Petition Number 13]
Report of Joseph Cameron, Crown Lands Department dated 24 Jan 1857attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ninian Newkirk
“The accompanying Petition on behalf of Ninian Newkirk by his attorney Mr Abraham S Holmes is for the purchase of Lot number Nine in the 6th Concession of the Township of Raleigh in consideration of the improvement which he has effected at the rate of two shillings per Acre. These improvements consist according to an Affidavit by John Tynar dated 7th Novr 1855 of fifty Acres improved by ditching & fencing, in which a large amount of labor was expended – Mr Newkirk in an Affidavit made 19th Septemr 1855 placed with his Petition states that he has cut a ditch around one hundred Acres four feet wide & two feet deep and stables and sheds, and that his improvements are of the value of two hundred & fifty pounds — And Mr Holmes in an Affidavit made the 13th of the present month declares the representations made in the two Affidavits referred to, to be substantially correct – and also states that the improvements in question have added very considerably to the value of the lands adjoining rendering them now saleable. The lot applied for constitutes a part of the Raleigh Marsh with respect to which a proposition to purchase the whole on the part of Mr Lariville U P, is now before His Excellency in Council – Mr Newkirk has evidently a valid claim to preemption, J L is accordingly recommended that it be recognized and that a Sale of this lot, which he desires to obtain be sanctioned, at the rate of eight shillings per Acre – this being the same amount per Acre as Mr Lariville [……..] himself prepared to offer subject to the condition of reclaiming the lands by a complete system of Drainage Payment may be made by Mr Newkirk in five Installments with interest thereon as they annually come due. Crown Land Dept Toronto 24 Jany 1857 [Signed] Joseph Cameron” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 8, Petition Number 13b]
Order of the Executive Council on the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ninian Newkirk
“In Committee 14 Feby 1857 The Committee advised that the recommendation of the Comr of Crown Lands be approved & carried into effect. Approved in Council 16-” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 8, Petition Number 13]
Certificate of John Tynar dated in Chatham, Kent County on 7 Nov 1855 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ninian Newkirk
“Canada County of Kent To wit: John Tynar of the Township of Raleigh in said county yeoman maketh oath and saith that he was on Lot nine in the Sixth concession of said Township of Raleigh now occupied by one Ninian Newkirk during the last week, that he this deponent has known said Lot for the last two years, that he did not believe said place could ever be occupied by any person, but that said Newkirk has by great labor made it a fine farm – this deponent says further that said Newkirk has built a comfortable house thereon and improved by fencing and ditching more than fifty acres of said Lot. Sworn at Chatham in said County of Kent this 7th day of November A D 1855 before me} [Signed] John Tynar” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 8, Petition Number 13e]
Deposition of Ninian H. Newkirk dated in Chatham, Kent County on 19 Sep 1855 attached to his Upper Canada Land Petition
County of Kent To Wit} Ninian H. Newkirk of the Township of Raleigh in said County yeoman maketh oath and saith that above four years ago he did go into peaceable possession of Lot nine in the sixth concession of said Township of Raleigh being encouraged by the Local agent to do so and that the might be obtained at a low price, and that since that time he has remained in undisturbed and quiet possession. This deponent also saith that he has since that time built a house on said Lot eighteen by thirty feet and fenced one hundred and six acres and cut a ditch around one hundred acres of said Lot four feet wide and two feet deep with stables sheds and other improvements altogether amounting in valued to over two hundred and fifty pounds – the greater part of said improvements this deponent saith were made by his own hard labor this deponent also saith further that when he went into possession of said Lot he does not consider that is was of any practical value. Sworn at Chatham in the County of Kent this 19th day of September A D 1855 before me [Signed] A S Holmes J. P. C. K.} [Signed] Ninian H. Newkirk” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 8, Petition Number 13f]
Deposition of Abraham S. Holmes dated in Toronto on 15 Jan 1857 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ninian Newkirk
“Canada County of York} Abraham S. Holmes of the Town of Chatham in the County of Kent Esquire maketh oath and saith that he is personally acquainted with Ninian Newkirk the applicant for Lot 9. 6 con. Raleigh and with the condition of said Lot now and also that it formerly was considered to be an irreclaimable swamp. This deponent also saith that he knows the representations made by said Newkirk and one Tynar in affidavits filed in the Crown Lands Department at Toronto to be substantially correct. The Deponent also saith further that he thinks it beyond doubt that the improvements made by said Newkirk pm said Lot by way of Drainage have added very considerable to the value of adjoining crown Lands – that they have even given value and rendered salable Lands of the Crown which before could not have been sold. Sworn at Toronto in said county of York this 15th day of January 1857 [Signed] H. Eccles a Commissioner} Signed [A S Holmes]” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 8, Petition Number 13g]
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 Robert Nichol of the Township of Sandwich dated at Sandwich (Windsor) on 30 Jan 1798
“Most respectfully Sheweth – That your Petitioner is a Native of Great Britain, and came to this Province in the year One thousand seven hundred and ninety two, where he has constantly resided since. – That your Petitioner has on every occasion evinced a desire to support the happy Constitution under which he was born and educated, and intending to make his residence permanent in this Province, is emboldened to hope, that your Honor will be pleased so far to further his intentions, as to grant him such Quantity of the Waste Lands of the Crown as to your Honor may seem meet. – And your Petr will ever pray. – [Signed] Robt Nichol” Added notation: “Recommended by [Signed] John Asken I: P: W: D: [Signed] P Selby J. P. [Signed] Wm Harsly I. P. W. D.” Received at the Executive Council Office on 17 May 1798 and read in Council on 15 Mar 1800. Ordered this petition is answered on the back of a new petition presented this day. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 4, Petition Number 13]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Nichol dated at Amherstburg on 12 Apr 1797
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Memorialist, a Native of Scotland has resided in this Province for these Five Years past at Niagara and Detroit as a Merchants Clerk – having taken the Oaths prescribed by Law wishes to become a permanent Settler in this Province. Therefor prays that your Honor will Grant him such a portion of the Vacant Lands of the Crown as you in your wisdom may see fit and your Memorialist as in duty bound will Ever Pray [Signed] Robt Nichol” Received at the Executive Council Office on 16 May 1797 and read in Council on 28 Feb 1798. Ordered recommended for 400 Acres under the new regulations. Read again on 15 Mar 1800. Ordered this recommendation is taken up in a petitioner of that date presented by the petitioner. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 4, Petition Number 13c]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of John Nighton received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Oct 1796
“Respectfully shews—That he served near twenty Six Years in the 5th Regiment, including several years in Canada, & 7 Years in America & the west Indies, during the late Rebellion; that he lived with the late Lt Col Smith, about 25 years of that time & now being humbly discharged, & wishing to settle in Upper Canada, prays your Honor to grant him such a portion of the waste Lands of the Crown, as his Services may merit—and as in duty bound he will pray—” John Nighton made his mark. Added note of Acting Surveyor General David William Smith: I certify the above & strongly recommend the petitioner for such portion of the Kings bounty, as his Honor & the Council, may be pleased to favor him with. [Signed] D W Smith” Received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Oct 1796. Ordered the petitioner in consideration of his good character and long service and being judged competent for the cultivation will be recommended by the administration for 600 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 6]
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 24 Jan 1797 signed by Acting Surveyor General David W. Smith
18 Oct 1796 John Nighton – 600 acres
Read in Council on 24 Jan 1797 and confirmed Initialled “PR” by Peter Russell [Upper Canada Land Petitions NAC “P” Bundle 2, Petition Number 73]
Mentioned in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of William Kennedy received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Jul 1797
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner has resided upwards of Twelve Months in this Province and has married the Daughter of Thomas North U. E. Loyalist—Wherefore your Petitioner prays your Honor would be pleased to allow him Two hundred Acres for himself, and such quantity for his wife, as the Daughter of U. E. Loyalist as your Honor may think proper and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] William Kennedy” Received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Jul 1797 and read in Council on 20 Jul 1797. Ordered Petitioner and his wife recommended for 200 acres each. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “K” Bundle 3, Petition Number 35]
Copy of the Order in Council attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Kennedy
“In the Executive Council on 25 Jul 1797. Ordered Elizabeth Kennedy, Wife of William Kennedy, and Daughter of Thomas North, ordered Two hundred acres. [Signed] John McGill IGPPA” Added notation: “Thomas North belonged to the Jersey Volunteers and is fully intitled to the priviledge of UE [Signed] John McGill IGPPA” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “K” Bundle 3, Petition Number 35c]
Certificate of John Monro, J. P. dated on 5 Jul 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Kennedy
“Whereas William Kennedy and Elizabeth North were desirous of Intermarrying with each other and there being no Person or Minister of the Church of England living within Eighteen Miles of them or either of them, they have applied To me for that Purpose – Now these are to Certify that In the name of the Powers Granted by an Act of the legislature of the Province Passed In the thirty third year of his Majestys Reign I, John Monro one of his Majesty’s Justices of the Peace, I having Caused the Previous Notice by the Statute required to be given, have this day married the said William Kennedy and Elizabeth North together and they are become Legally contracted to each other In Marriage – July 5th 1797 [Signed] John Monro, JP” Added notation: “Witness present at the Marriage – John Kennedy, Charity Kennedy” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “K” Bundle 3, Petition Number 35b]
Certificate of Ralfe Clench attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Kennedy
“The within named Elizabeth North was daughter to Thomas North an enrolled U.E. – [Signed] R Clench” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “K” Bundle 3, Petition Number 35a]
Receipt issued at the Receiver General’s Office on 20 May 1805 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Kennedy
“William Kennedy has paid into this office £3.5.6 Being the Patent fees on a Grant of 200 acres in Oxford under OC. 25 Jul 1797. The Surveying fees to be paid at the Surveyor Generals Office. To The Attorney General & Surveyor General [Signed] Peter Russell R Genl” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “K” Bundle 3, Petition Number 35b]
Certificate of John Monro, J. P. dated on 29 Jun 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Kennedy
“William Kennedy having Caled on the Subscriber for Recommendation, I do Therefor Certify that the said Kennedy Has been A Residenter in The Township of Gainsborough twelve Months, and as Conducted himself as And [sic] Honest, Industrious Sober Man and verryley belive him to be a faithful subject to Our Sovereign Lord the King—[Signed] John Monro J. Peace” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “K” Bundle 3, Petition Number 35d]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary O. Neal [sic]dated at Queenston on 22 Mar 1797
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is Daughter to Thomas North a Loyalist U. E. Settled in this district. That she came into this Province in the year 1791 with two Children she brought with her being then a Widow. That she is since Married at Queenston and has added one child more to her family and most humbly prays for such a portion of the Bounty of the Crown in the Waste Lands of the Province as your honor in your Wisdom shall think proper and Just, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever Pray” Mary O. Neal made her mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 24 Mar 1797 and read on 24 Mar. Ordered 200 acres as the daughter of a Loyalist if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “O” Bundle 2, Petition Number 15]
Certificate of Robert Hamilton, J. P. dated at Queenston on 22 Mar 1797 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary O. Neal
“That Mary Oneal the daughter of Thomas North a Loyalist UE—Settled in Louth has Resided at Queenston for some years, has a family of three children, and is a very decent respectable woman is Certified by [Signed] R. Hamilton J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “O” Bundle 2, Petition Number 15]
Certificate of Acting Surveyors General William Chewett and Thomas Ridout attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary O. Neal
“Mary Oneal O C 24th March 1797 supposed to be returned by the Late Surveyr Genl as Missed for Payment of Survey—[Initialed] C & R [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “O” Bundle 2, Petition Number 15b]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Thomas North received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Nov 1795
“Humbly sheweth that your Petitioner Served his Majestey In the fourth battalion of his Majesteys late new Jersey Volunteers As a privit soldier- that your Petitioner has been a setler in this province Upwards of four years and has received but two Hundred Acres of Land but finding his Military service entitles him to More request your Excellency will be pleased to grant him what may be due- your Petitioner further begs leave to inform your Excellency that he has a wife and Six Children to provide for begs you will be pleased to grant unto them sutch body of land as your Excellency in goodness may think Proper to Confer and your Petitioner will be In duty bound to pray [Signed] Thomas North” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Nov 1795 and read in Council on 7 Jul. Ordered recommended for 100 acres to complete his Military Lands if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 10]
Certificate of Lieutenant John Monro dated 9 Nov 1795 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Thomas North
“The Barer Thoms North having lost his discharge has this day applied to me to Confirm That he was a soldier during the late war. I do therefor certify that the AforSaid Thoms North was a privet Soldier In the late forth Battn New Jersey Volunteers. Given Under My hand This 9 day Novemr 1795 [Signed Jon Monro, Lieut” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 10b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of William North dated at Niagara on 20 Aug 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“The Petition of William North That your petitioner is desirous to settle on the lands of the Crown in this Province, being in a condition to cultivate and improve the same. That he has taken the usual oaths, & is ready to subscribe the declaration, that he professes the Christian Religion, and obedience to the laws, and has lived inoffensively in the country. Prays your Honor, would be pleased to grant him 200 acres of land upon the terms and conditions expressed in HIs Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792, or such other quantity of land as to your Honor in your wisdom may think meet. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Added notation of Thomas Ridout N. P.: “I do hereby certify that William North personally applied to me for the above Petition [Signed] T Ridout N. P.” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Aug 1796 and read in Council on 8 Oct 1796. Ordered prayer granted if never granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 8]
Certificate of Thomas Saxton dated on 20 Aug 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William North
“I do hereby certify that William North Seaman in the marine Department on Lake Ontario served for the space of three Years. Witness my hand this twentieth day of August one thousand Seven hundred and ninety Six [Signed Thos Saxton [to] D. W. Smith Esqr A Surveyor Genl Niagara” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 2, Petition Number 8b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Norton dated at York (Toronto) on 11 Apr 1798
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner is stationed at Niagara as an Indian Interpreter, and is wishing to build therein, prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him a town lot, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—By desire [Signed] W. Claus” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Apr 1798 and read in Council on 12 Apr. Ordered a Town Lot of one acre in Newark ordered to the Petitioner on the usual conditions. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 4, Petition Number 8]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Mills of the Township of Grimsby, County of Lincoln dated on 31 Jul 1801
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is the Daughter of John Mills, of the Township aforesaid a U. E. Loyalist, that she is of the full age of Nineteen years and has never Received any Lands from the Crown, Wherefore She prays that your Excellency would be pleased to grant to her Such a Portion of the waste Lands of the Crown as to your Excellency may seem meet, and as in duty bound She will Ever pray—” Mary Mills made her mark. The name “Mary Null” is written on the reverse. Received and examined at the Executive Council Office on 1 Sep 1801. Notation: The name of John Mills appears on the U. E. List for the Home District. Read in the Executive Council on the same day. Ordered the Petitioner being married recommended for 200 acres as daughter of a UE. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 5, Petition Number 5]
Certificate of Robert Nelles J. P. dated on 31 Jul 1801 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Mills
“Personally appeared before me Robt Nelles Esqr of His Majestys justices of the peace for the District of Niagara the above named Mary Mills, who being duly Sworn on the holy Evangelist of almighty God, Deposeth that She is of the full age of Nineteen years and that She never has received any Lands, or any order for lands from the Crown—” Mary Mills made her mark. “Taken & Sworn before me this 31st Day July 1801 [Signed] Robt Nelles” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 5, Petition Number 5]
Certificate of Robert Nelles J. P. dated on 31 Jul 1801 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Mills
“I do hereby Certify that the above named Mary Mills is the person she Describes herself to be, and that she never has to my Knowledge and belief, Received any lands, or any Order for Lands from the Crown—[Signed] Robt Nelles J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 5, Petition Number 5]
Certificate of John Mills attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mary Mills
“John Mills of Grimsby maketh oath that Mary Mills the Petitioner is married to Peter Null & that it was omitted to be mentioned in her Petition. Sworn before me [Signed] John Small [Signed] John Mill” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 5, Petition Number 5b]
Mentioned in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Constantine O Neile (signed O Neill) received at the Executive Council Office on 9 May 1797
“Humbly Sheweth – That your Petr came into this Province about ten Years ago, and had a wife and five Children previous to the Year 1789, —That your Petr received his own lands on which was a certificate of Two hundred Acres – Wherefore your Petr prays Your Honor would be pleased to allow him such proportion for his wife & five Children, likewise a grant for an orphan girl who lived with your Petitioner—as your Honor may conceive proper, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Con O Neill” Received at the Executive Council Office on 9 May 1797 and read in Council on 10 May 1797. Ordered recommended for 300 acres as family lands if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 14]
Certificate of John Warren, J. P. dated at Fort Erie on 8 May 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Constantine O Neill
“I do hereby certify that Constantine O Neile [sic] together with his family came to this Province in the year 1787, his family then consisted of the undermentioned persones Con: Oneile, Margaret /Wife, Richard, Susan, John, Bathsheba Nun (a Servant), Henry (his youngest Son born in 1788) [Signed] John Warren J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 14b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Joshua Nun [sic] dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 28 Apr 1797
“Humbly shews That your Petitioner came into the Province last Fall, with his Step Father Wm Dunmead & Family – That he has taken the oath, and signed the declaration – and being desirous to settle in the Province; prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 200 acres of Land, he being in a condition to cultivate and improve the same—And your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—” Joshua Nun [sic] made his mark. “Witness [Signed] T Ridout” Received at the Executive Council Office on 8 May 1797 and read in Council the same day. Ordered 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 7]
Certificate of William Dickson, J. P. dated on 28 Apr 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Joshua Nun
“I do hereby Certify that on this 28th day of April 1797, Josua [sic] Nun appeared Before me William Dickson Esquire and took the oath of Allegiance & signed the Declaration [Signed] William Dickson J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 7b]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Samuel Nunn received at the Executive Council Office on 12 May 1797
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner came into this Province the first of last May, and took the oaths & subscribed the declaration &c – That your Petitioner settled on Lot No 12 8th Concession – and in Township of Townshend [sic] by Paul Averills recommendation – Wherefore your Petitioner prays that your Honor would Confirm him in the same, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Samuel Nunn” Received at the Executive Council Office on 12 May 1797 and read the same day. Ordered recommended for confirmation. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 9]