Upper Canada Land Petition of Casper Ramey of the Township of Humberstone dated on 1 Jul 1826
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is a native of the (now) State of Pennsylvania, that at the commencement of the hostilities in the Colonies (which ended in he separation of His Majestys Colonies in America from the Crown of Britain) your Petitioner declared himself to be a British subject. That your Petitioner had his property taken and destroyed by the Revolutionist: That your Petitioner would [afriendly] come to Canada during the Revolution at the time Messrs Fields and Dolsons came to Canada, had he not been detained by the said Revolutionists. That your petitioner was detained in prison until the Peace for his adhering to the British cause. That in the 1788 your petitioner came to Canada and settled in the Township of Wainfleet from which he moved to Humberstone where he still resides. That your Petitioner being ignorant and illiterate did not till of late know that here was such a thing as an U. E. List, or that a person could draw land without Fee though he had adhered to the unity of the Empire. Wherefore your Petitioner prays your Excellency will take his case into consideration and have his name inserted on the U E List, should your Excellency find him entitled to such indulgence and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray. Humberstone 1th July 1826 [Signed] Casper Ramey” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 14, Petition Number 166]
Affidavit of John Warren Esquire, J. P. dated 7 Jun 1826 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Casper Ramey
“Personally appeared before me John Warren Esquire one of His Majestys Justices of the Peace for this District, Henry Zavitz of Wainfleet in Said District who being duly Sworn deposeth and saith that he was personally acquainted with Casper Remy, now of Humberstone in said District, but then of Pennsylvania one of the revolted Colonies in N. America during the Revolution in the then Colonies in North America— That during the whole of the contest, the said Casper Remey was a true and faithful Subject of His late Majesty George the Third—That this deponent is positive the said Casler Remy would have joined His Majestys Forces during said war had he not been captured and imprisoned by the Enemy for his adherence to the Cause of Britain—That this deponent Knows the said Casper Remy was imprisoned by the Enemy during the said American Revolution, and his property taken from him for his adherence to the cause of Great Britain. That at one time during said Revolution the said Caspar Remy, being closely pursued by the Enemy was under the necessity of concealing himself in the woods where he remained for a long time and was there fed by this deponent—That the said Casper Remy removed with his family from said revolted Colonies to this Province in the Year 1788 and has resided herein ever since; and further that the said Casper Remy and all his family retained their Loyalty during the late war with the United States—Sworn before me at Humberstone aforesaid the 7th of Jun 1826 [Signed […..] Zavitz [Signed] J Warren J. P. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 14, Petition Number 166b]
Affidavit of Thomas Dickson J. P. dated 29 Aug 1821 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Casper Ramey
“I certify that Gasper Remy of the township of Humberstone has resided in the township aforesaid for above Thirty years, during which period I have Known him and believe him to be an honest man and a good farmer, Witness my hand at Queenston 29th Aug 1821 [Signed] Thomas Dickson J. P. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 14, Petition Number 166d]
Affidavit of David Secord Esquire, J. P. dated in Yarmouth Township, Elgin County attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Casper Ramey
“London District} Upper Canada—Personally came before me David Secord Esquire one of His Majestys Justices of the Peace for the said District; Christian Zavitz of Yarmouth yeoman: who being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelist maketh oath and saith: that he this deponent was personally acquainted with Casper Remey previous to the Revolution in His Majestys Colonies in North America. That at the commencement of hostilities in the said Colonies, the said Casper declared himself to be a British Subject—that this deponent is positive the said Casper was taken and detained a prisoner by the said Revolutionist for his loyalty to our Lord the King, that this deponent knows the said Casper would have come to Canada during the said Revolution had he not been detained as aforesaid—that he this deponent knows the said Casper to have suffered materially by adhering to the British government—that this deponent is positive the said Casper moved to this Province as soon as he could come after the Peace of 1783 as this deponist came to Canada with the said Casper previous to the year 1790, when the said Casper has resided ever since that period—that the said Casper and all his family are considered to be good and loyal Subjects to our Lord the King. Sworn to before me at Yarmouth, this 14th February 1826} [Signed] David Secord J. P. [Signed] Christian Zavitz” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 14, Petition Number 166e]
Affidavit of John Warren J. P. dated in Bertie Township, Welland County on 5 July 1826 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Casper Ramey
“I hereby certify that I have been personally acquainted with Casper Remy of the Township of Humberstone in the Niagara District for more than Thirty Years, that he has always maintained the character of an honest industrious and Loyal Inhabitant and that he and all his family retained their Loyalty during the late war with the United States. I further Certify that the said Casper Remy came to this Province with his family and became a Settler herein in the year 1788—Bertie 5th July 1826 [Signed] J. Warren J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 14, Petition Number 166g]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Remy of Southwold Township, Elgin County reading the Executive Council on 16 Feb 1811
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner who has resided within the Province for a number of years and who has taken the oath of Allegiance as prescribed by law is desirous of obtaining a Grant of Land on the road leading to Port Talbot. That he is ready to pay the fees and to perform the Settling duty that may be ordered—He therefore prays that your Excellency will see fit to order him a Grant of Two hundred Acres – under the Conditions of Settlement to which the Same may be liable – and Your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pary—” Henry Remy made his mark. “Recommended by [Signed] Thomas Talbot” Received by the Executive Council on 7 Feb 1811 and read in Council on 16 Feb 1811. Ordered recommended for a grant of 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 10, Petition Number 2]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of David Ramsay read in the Executive Council on 2 Sep 1793
“humbly Sheweth That your Excellency’s petitioner has been for some time an Inhabitant of this Province & being desirous of settling in the Township of York humbly petitions your Excellency for a town lott, and 200 Acres in the vicinity of the town & your Excellency’s Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] David Ramsay” Read in the Executive Council on 2 Sep 1793. Ordered that he may receive a town lot & 200 acres of land in the Township. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 1, Petition Number 26]
Upper Canada Land Petition of David Ramsay received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Jul 1795
“Humbley sheweth That your Petitioner in the year 1776 Joined his Excellency the Earl of Dunmore at Norfolk in Virginea, and acted on the fleet mate on board of the Prison Schouner, till the Spring 1776 when on awooding and watering party was Taken Prisoner and Carried to Williamsburgh. In the year 1777 I served on bourd of his Majestys Ship the Pilisan in the North Sea – in Europe. In the year 1778 Served on bourd of his Majestys ship the Sole Bay on the Cost of America. In the year 1779 I was at Portsmouth in Virginia and Conducted one of the Prizes belonging to Sir George Coliers fleet from Portsmouth in Virginia to N. York. In the winter 1779 when Capt Blair was sent from New York by Sir Henry Clinton to the Capes of Virginea to procure intelligence I went along with Capt Blair Pilote of the Vesshel and guide & procured Intelligence for Sir Henry Clinton. In the year 1780 I went along with Capt Blair a guide on the southeren Expedition in South Carolina—at other times – In the Late war I was imployed in Privateering and assisting to Annoey the Enemy.
In the former war I was on bourd of his Majestys ship the Prince of Orange, in the fall and winter 1757 we were Stationed in the Bay of Biscay. In the year 1758 we were at the Reduction of Lewsburgh. 1759 we were at the Reduction of Quebec. 1760 we were Stationed in the River and Gulph of St Lawrence Between Quebec & Shalour Bay. 1761 In the Spring I Left the ship Prince of Orange at Speathead and Saild in Privet Armd Veshels to the Remainder of the war. In the year 1764 and 1765 I belonged to the Veshels on Lake Ontearea which may be Certifyed by Comondor Grant who Commanded here in the year 1765.
The Petitioner—prayeth that his Excellency the Governor in Council will Allow him Land in proportion to the Different Stations and faithful services that your memorelest has served in who still are Ready when Required to Assist in Opposing any who are or may be the Adversareys of his Majesty or of the Empire of Britain when I am Called on for that service.
The Petitioner prayeth that your Excellency in Council will extend unto the petitioner of his Majestys bounty twelve hundred Acres of the waste Lands on Lake Eare at or Near Long point or on some Large Creek or Creeks, or at such place or places as your Excellency in Council is Pleased to direct it and your petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray [Signed] David Ramsay” Received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Jul 1795. Ordered recommended 600 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 2, Petition Number 7]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of David Ramsay read in the Executive Council on 7 Feb 1797
“Humbly Sheweth – That your petitioner served from the year 1757 unto 1761 on board of His Majestys ship the Prince of Orange and was at the Reduction of Lewesburgh Quebec and the Rest of the Lower parts of Canada and the Remainder of the war was imployed in privat armed Vesshels—in the years 1764 and 1765 I served on board of the Vesshels on Lake Ontearea—and in the Late war I was in his Majestys service by sea and Land—and in Private Armed Vesshels from 1775 During the Late war—Your petitioner prayeth that your Honor in Council will grant unto your petitioner of His Majestys Bounty of waste Lands of the Crown as much as your Honor in Council is pleased to Direct according to my Different services and the Different Stations that I served in both in the Late and former war which services I think ought to intitle me to more then the proportion of a Captain, and as in Duty Bound will ever pray—[Signed] David Ramsay” Read in the Executive Council on 7 Feb 1797. Ordered in consequence of the allegations set forth in this Petition & confirmed by a number of authentic documents that the Petitioner be granted twelve hundred acres including former grants. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 2, Petition Number 61]
Signer to the petition of the inhabitants of Stamford Township for a mill attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Timothy Skinner dated 23 Jun 1800
“The petition of the Subscribers (Inhabitants of Lincoln County Stamford Township) – Most Respectfully Sheweth that there is a Great want of Mills at or near the Falls of Niagara. We therefore pray that Timothy Skinner (Senior) may be tolerated to build Said mills Adjoining his own and land and As in duty bound we Shall ever pray [Signed] Thomas Millard, Chas Willson, James Forsyth, Haggai Skinner, Noah Cook, John Hardey, Edwd Lafferty, John Losea, John Durham, Edward Durham, Thomas Millard Senior, John Reilly, Peter McMicking, Jacob Kilman, John McKerlie, John Clow, Adam McNair. Peter Thomson, Paul Cripps, Bri[lrehald] [br]omson, John Thomson, Thomas McMicking, Joseph Robeson his mark, John Chisholm, Donald Rose, James Cooper, Conrad Dorshimer, Patrick Reilly, Benjamin Skinner, Azariah Lamer, William Lundy, Jacob Fonger, William Fonger, Charles Grene, Benjamin Skinner Senor, Ebenezer Skinner, Isaac Chambers, Robert Spencer his mark, James Crawford, Chris Buchner, Henry Ramsey, [fred…] gobalt, Thomas Doan, John Upher, Jacob Upper, George Upper, George Couke, Robert Wilkerson, Benajah Williams, George Keefer, John Hilz, Ezekiel Woodruff, Giles Hall, Hugh Wilson, John Wilson, John Wilson Junr, Johnneal Kelhone, John [….] John Si[lverthorn]” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 5, Petition Number 127d]
Mentioned in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Angus McDonell (signed Macdonell) received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Aug 1797
“Most humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner as Attorney at law having been employed by several of His Majestys Subjects to file Caveats in the Secretary’s office to prevent the Patents for certain tracts of land from issuing until your Honors’ pleasure thereon should be had in Council, finds himself as well as his clients materially aggrieved by the Conduct of the said Secretary who issued such Deeds without any manner of regard to the Caveats filed by your Petitioner to the following Cases your Petitioner more particularly alludes—Oliver Gahagan, against James Ramsay—Donald McDonald against Thomas Hind—That your Petitioner finds himself further compelled to resort to your Honor for Justice in a case more immediately concerning himself and which he finds cannot be procured without your Honors intersession. Your Petitioner being an U. E. Loyalist has the Pleadge of the Royal promise to receive Deeds for Lands granted to him by the Crown grantus notwithstanding which, the Secretary of the province detains your Petitioner’s Deed for a Lot of Ground in the Town of Newark under pretence of his being authorized to collect Fees thereon. Wherefore your Petitioner prays that your Honor will cause Justice to be done to him and as in duty bound he will ever pray &c. [Signed] A Macdonell” Received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Aug 1797. Ordered the two first charges are unfounded: That relative to the Petitioner’s own deed to stand over for consideration. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 2, Miscellaneous 1788-1798, Petition Number 86]
Mention in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Thomas Cummings received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Apr 1797
“Respectfully Sheweth That your Petitioner served in Col Butlers late Rangers last American War—That your Petitioner married Jenny Ramsey whose Father adhered to the Unity of the Empire previous to the Year 1783, and had two Sons who also served in Col. Butlers Rangers. That your Petitioner having never drawn any lands for his wife, (the daughter of Loyalist) prays your Honor would be pleased for to allow him such appropriation of Lands for his wife & one child which was born previous to the year 1789, as to your Honor may seem meet—and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] Thos Cummings” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Apr 1797. Ordered the name of Ramsey is not in the UE List. Petitioner recommended for 100 acres family lands. Later notation. Ramsey is on the UE List. Initialled A McN [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 3, Petition Number 198]
Certificate dated at Falls Mills on 28 Jan 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Thomas Cummings
“I do Certify that Jean Cummings is the daughter of a Loyalist and She has resided the Chief part of her time in this province since the year 1778. She has also a Son named James Cummings Born the 12th day of April 1788 [Signed] John Burch JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 3, Petition Number 198b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Martha Burch dated at Niagara on 3 Feb 1797
“Respectfully Shews That your petitioner is wife to John Burch Esquire and daughter of a Loyalist (James Ramsey Sr.) That your petitioner came into this province with two Brothers and a Sister in the year 1778, and have since ever continued to reside in this province—prays your Honor would be pleased for to allow her a Certain grant of His Majestys waste Lands (she never yet having received any) and your petitioner will as in duty bound ever pray—[Signed] Martha Burch” Received at the Executive Council on 3 Feb 1797 and Read in Council on 17 Mar 1797. Ordered recommended for 400 acres as the wife of a Magistrate. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 2, Petition Number 118]
Certificate of George Forsyth J. P. dated at Niagara on 3 Feb 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Martha Burch
“This Certifies that Martha Burch formerly Ramsey was the Daughter of a Loyalist, and her Family known to me at Cherry Valley on the Mohawk during the Late American War, and came into this Province in the year 1778. [Signed] Geo Forsyth JP.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 2, Petition Number 118a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Andrew Rancier dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 4 Jul 1795
“Most humbly sheweth that your Petitioner is a son of a loyalist who served during the late American War in the late Corps of Rangers commanded by Lieutenant Colonel John Butler as did Such of his Sons who were able to carry arms—That your petitioners Father, after the peace drew one Hundred acres of land, in part of the quantity due him by the Crown for his Services, and died since without having received his Complement. That your petitioner agreed & conditioned with the other Heirs of your petitioner’s late father to pay all the Debts of his said Father and all funeral Expences and in remuneration thereof to inherit his said late fathers lands—That your petitioner having been now nine years in this province & several years married to the Daughter of a Loyalist considers himself also entitled to expect from your Excellency a Grant of Lands in his own right having as yet none—Wherefore your petitioner prays that your Excellency would grant to your Petitioner the two Hundred acres due on his late Fathers quota as aforesaid—two Hundred for himself and two Hundred for his wife who comes under the Instructions of His Excellency General Haldimand in 1783—in all 600 acres & as in duty bound he will ever pray—Andrew Rancier” Received at the Executive Council Office on 4 Jul 1795 and read in Council on 28 Jul 1795. Ordered two hundred acres for himself and two hundred for Christina the daughter of John Segar. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 1, Petition Number 11]
Land Board Certificate issued to Andrew Ranceir [sic]dated on 3 Nov 1792 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead
“The Bearer Andrew Ranceir having on the 3rd day of Novr 1792 preferred to this Board a Petition addressed to His Excellency the Governor in Council for a grant of Two Hundred Acres of land in the Township of No 4 in the District of Nassau We have examined into his loyalty and character and find him duly qualified to receive a single Lot of about two hundred Acres, the oath of fidelity and allegiance directed by law having this day been administered to him by the board, in conformity to the fourth article of the Rules and Regulations aforementioned. Given at the Board at Newark this 3rd day of November one thousand seven hundred and Ninety two To Augustus Jones Acting Surveyor General for the District of Nassau. [Signed] R. Hamilton” Certificate of the Acting Surveyor: “I Assign to the Bearer Andrew Rancier the Lot No 2 in 5th Concession in the Township of No 1 in the District of Nassau containing One Hundred Acres Twenty Chains by fifty.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 4, Petition Number 16h]
Notation of Transfer from Andrew Ransier to John Butler dated 2 Nov 1792 on the Land Board Certificate of Andrew Ransier attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead
“The Land Board Consent to the Sale of this Lott by Andrew Ransier to Lt Colonel John Butler – Newark Novr 2d 92 [Signed] R. Hamilton, John Warren, Robert Kerr” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 4, Petition Number 16i]
Notation of Receipt of Payment from John Butler to Andrew Ransier dated 5 Nov 1792 on the Land Board Certificate of Andrew Ransier attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead
“Receiv’d in full of all Demands from Lieut Col. Butler, for the above Lot, this 5th Day Novr 1792—[Signed] Andrew Ransier” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 4, Petition Number 16i]
Notation of the Land Board on the Land Board Certificate of Andrew Ransier attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Johnson Butler and James Muirhead
“NB. Col. Butler promises to give up an obligation in his Possession if he can find it it [sic] shall be nulled void—[Signed] J. Butler” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 4, Petition Number 16i]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Elizabeth Coon, wife to George Ransier, late of Butlers Rangers dated on 22 Oct 1796
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner in the year 1781, came into Niagara with other Refugee Loyalists. That your Petitioner is since Married to an old Ranger, That Coming under the Description of a U. E. Loyalist Your Petitioner trusts Your Honor Granting her Two Hundred acres of Land and putting that mark of Honor on her, recommended by the Governor General, and as in duty Bound your Petitioner will ever Pray—” Elizabeth Coon made her mark. Received at the Executive Council on 22 Oct 1796 and read in Council on 28 Mar 1797. Ordered not recommended. Revised 7 Apr 1797. Ordered recommended for 50 acres family lands. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 2, Petition Number 150]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Hoffman [signed Hufman] received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797
“Humbly Sheweth – That your Petitioner came into this Province in the year 1786 and had a wife and one Child previous to the year 1789—That your Petr married Elizabeth Ransier a Loyalists daughter, – Wherefore your petitioner humbly prays your Honor would be pleased to allow him such a grant of Land for himself, wife the Daughter of a Loyalist, and one child, as your Honor may think proper, (Your Petitioner having never received any lands in the [province] for himself, or family) and your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Michel Hufman” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797. Ordered 100 acres family lands if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 129]
Certificate of John Warren, J. P. dated at Fort Erie on 24 Apr 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Hoffman
“I certify that the bearer Michael Hoffman came to this Province in the year 1786, he has resided in the Township of Bertie several years past, he has been married Ten years, to Elizabeth Ransier, a Loyalist’s daughter. Three of her brothers served during the American War, in the late Lieut Colonel Butler’s Corps of Rangers as did also, Nicholas Hoffman brother to Michael, there can be no doubt of his being a good Subject, and he is an honest industrious man [Signed] John Warren J. P. His eldest child, Ann is nine years old [Initialled] JW” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 129b]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Hoffman dated at Niagara on 26 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“The Petition of Jacob Hoffman, late of Jessups Corps—to Wit he has never received any other certificate for his Land, than the one annexed, & is married to Nancy the Daughter of George Ransier—late of Butlers Corps—Respectfully shews, That your petitioner is desirous to settle on the lands of the Crown in this Province, being in a condition to cultivate and improve the same. That he has taken the usual oaths, subscribed the declaration, that he professes the Christian Religion, and obedience to the laws, and has lived inoffensively in the country which he has left. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him 300 acres & to his wife 200 of land as pr the above description. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Ordered by the Executive Council recommended for 300 acres if not granted before. Certificate wanted for family lands. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 12]
Land Board certificate of John Warren dated 27 Jan 1789 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Hoffman
“Jacob Hofman [sic] Three Lots by ord the Board [Signed] J Warren” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 2, Petition Number 12a]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Samuel Cassaday [sic] of Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) dated at Newark on 1 Feb 1797
“Most humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner is the Son of Daniel Cassaday, an old Ranger, and an U. E. Loyalist. That your Petitioner is married to Sarah the Daughter of John Ranciore, likewise an U. E. Loyalist who had three Sons in the Corps of Rangers during the late war. That your Petitioner has only one child living—and has drawn two Hundred acres of Land—Wherefore he prays such additional allowance of Land as your Honor in your Wisdom may deem meet and as in duty bound your Petitioner will ever pray &c—[Signed] Samuel Cassaday” Received at the Executive Council office on 4 Feb 1797 and read in Council on 26 Feb then again on 28 Mar 1797. Ordered the certificate must state the facts it certifies. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 2 Petition Number 105]
Certificate of Robert Kerr J. P. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 4 Feb 1797
“I do certify to the Truth of the annexed Petition [Signed] Robert Kerr J. P. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 2 Petition Number 105a]
Later copy of an Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Randall originally received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Nov 1798
“In Council. The petition of Robert Randall humbly Prays your Honor to grant him the privilege of erecting And establishing Iron works at or near the waters on River Niagara, in the province aforesaid. your petitioner further prays your honor to grant or lease him for nine hundred and ninety nine years a Certain slip of land reserved for the use of Government, lying and runing with the waters of Niagara river from the mouth of Chippaway Creek until it intersects the south end of a Certain line of a slip of Land granted or leased to John McGill & Benjamin Canby Esqrs And Also from the South end of the east line of said Reserve to the waters Edge of Niagara River, and from thence Five Chains lengthe into the mouth of Chippaway, from thence running a line down the river parallel with the banks the line to intersect the east side of the south part or end of a small Island or Islands opposite of the Mills formerly belonging to McGill & Canby as afd together with all water and water Courses touching and including said banks wherever it may not interfere with the Grant or lease made to said McGill & Canby. Also your petitioner prays a lease for the Aforesaid term of time of the one or otherwise three small Islands, lying and being in the river Niagara, opposite the mills aforesaid, and from the west side of said Island or Islands to the banks of said river including all the banks and government reserve, not interfering with the lease afd until it [sai…] a broken old black oak tree being and standing on the bank of said river, a point opposite the north end of said Island or Islands, and from said tree to the end of said Island Allowing one Chain in the water from said point of Island together with all waters water Courses or bank of said river, lying and being betwixt said Island or Island and banks of said river, and two chains length from the east side of said Islands into the main body of Niagara. And further your petitioner prays the privilege of raising Erecting and working any Iron Ore reserved by his Majesty where your petitioner may find the same most convenient and should a body of Iron ore be found on any of the Lots reserved for the use of Government lying or being in the neighbourhood of the Chippaway waters or waters runing into Chippaway, the privilege of Locating the same or a lease for and during the term of aforesaid, or if mountain or stone [ore] should be found on any lots reserved for Government use lying within a distant to admit of being brought advantageous to the works, then in Those […] the [custody of] […..] also where to be extinct. Also your petitioner prays your honor to grant or lease as afd a body of land where it may be located most convenient, tho the unlocated lands may lie so remote to be convenient to supply the works with wood for Coals. Your petitioner will in his opinion be able by allowing a difference in exchange to procure land lying in bodys Convenient for his use. As a Consumption of fifteen thousands cords of wood years will lay wo[r]ks Liable to be much imposed on should the consumption of Coals depend on the neighbourhood plantations. further your petitioner humbly prays your honor may in your wise Council Consider the propriety of your petitioner praying the exclusive privilege of erecting and establishing works for the manufacturing Cast & wrought Iron in the province of Upper Canada, and prays the same to be granted for and dureing the term of Twelve years from the date of the privilege so granted, as one set of works will be competent to supply this province with all Cast & wrought Iron for a lengthier time. the privilege to lay open for other establishments, it will fall Heavy on the first undertaken – the first that undertaken [Here] of establishment will find it Arduous, and the expense vastly great. your honors are knowing how difficult it will be to get labourers, and the price of hire enormous in the highest degree, provisions fierce and vastly high, materials & utensils for the business difficult to be got, as they must be brought a great distance, and most at a great expense. yet the task must fall on some one, for so fertile and fine a Country as this is, makes it much to be pityed, an establishment for manufacturing Iron ware not already made, as a supply of the [….] of Potash kettles may justly said to be a [f]und for every settler as well those Gents holding bodys of land to pray for clearing and makeing Complete farms, and may it please your honors as quick as the first establishment has waded through every difficulty and gets into blast, that moment materials are furnished for any purpose to erect works at the fourth part of the expense, as the first establishment brings machinists and labourers, as well the farming interest augmented to supply provisions much reasonably. However your Honors petitioner is happy to submit the consideration of the whole to your wise Council, and being fully convinced your honor will strengthen and encourage so desirable undertaking to any person who is willing to come forward in so arduous a task, and withy pleasure wait the result of your wise decision—your petitioner in duty in duty [sic] bound will ever pray [Signed] Robert Randall” Added notations: “Copy of the whole Sent to the Govt Office July 28th 1824” “Copy of the whole sent to the Government office to Mr M[…]ge on 17th February 1830” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 4, Petition Number 65]
Order of the Executive Council on the Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Randall
“Recd Novr 12. 98 Read same day Recommd that a Survey on a large Scale be made of the Shore of the River Niagara from the Table Rock to Chippawa Bridge with such sketches of the Islands by intersections as can be had. The further consideration of the Petition postponed till the Survey is made [Initialed] JE Confirmed [Initialed] P. R.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 4, Petition Number 65c]
Notation of John Small, Clerk of the Executive Council attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Randall
“Mr Randall produced Letters of Introduction from Mr Sterett, formerly a Member of Congress lately a Mercht of Philadelphia, & a large landholder in the Genesee to Sir [Jacb] Temple – Mr Sterett refers to Letters recd from Messrs Christie (a nephew of Genl Christie) & Gibson who introduce Mr R to Mr Sterrett – Mr Randall says he has shown his Letters of Credit (to £1952 Halx) to the President – He says he has no doubt that Genl Christie will honour his draft to any Amount, He adds that the Tract above Canby’s Mill is a [Reserve] – He thinks he may get it [……] in 18 Novr but it may perhaps be three yr. He says that below Canby’s Mill there is not room for more than one set of Works. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 4, Petition Number 65d]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Randall dated at York (Toronto) on 14 Jan 1799
“Humbly sheweth, That as an unfavorable report of the Council has bean made upon his petition for the privilege of erecting Iron works upon the waters of Niagara and being loath to loose Sight of the object w[h]ich is of so much moment to himself and perhaps equally as interesting to the province in general, he humbly prays a revision of the report, as it seems the prayer of his petition was rejected by reason of his having set forth that a grant of the military reserve from the Chippawa to the privilege of Messrs McGill & Canby was absolutely necessary. Your petition with diffidence begs leave to suggest to the honorable Council that he is Apprehensive they have not so fully understood him, and he flatters himself on a revision the objection laid down in the report may be removed, he will with permission briefly state his reasons for having thus represented the business to the Council—he thought then as he now thinks it dangerous that property I should [….] constantly up & down the river unless a road could be [erected] upon the bank, be at the waters edge, and sufficient railing in the water: Should the Council then wish him, and be pleased to grant him these liberties, likewise that no privilege be granted other person or persons, to erect works so as to interfere with this common [pass] of the river or otherwise be Ob[s]anited, or his works impeded there by [….] such case he should meet the pleasure of the Council on haveing the pleasure of the Council or haveing the river lade open in common, &c Your petitioner In duty bound will ever pray [Signed] Robert Randall” Received at the Executive Council Office on 14 Jan 1799 and read in Council on 14 Jan 1799. Ordered Mr. Randall may be apprised that the King’s Government will never by any subsequent act, in any manner [dimen..] the Petitioner of any prior grant or act of favour to any of His Majesty’s subjects; The Point of the exclusive possession of the River bank being out of the question; Mr Randall may now bring forward a specific and final proposal of what he proposes to do towards erecting the Iron Works, & a statement of the means he proposes, without […]ted as the most satisfactory manner, also a statement of his affectations from this Government. But he must distinctly understand that it is affected that he will put all confidence in the Royal Promises as pledged by the President and Council, of [W]hat he must not expect to have any grant or lease of the spot in question, until he has completely complied with all his engagements. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 4, Petition Number 13]
Receipt of Robert Randall dated on 12 Jan 1799 attached to his Upper Canada Land Petition
“I acknowedge to have received from the Council Office sd [Inc] [Templet] Letter & Saml Street Esqr” 12 Janr 1799 [Signed] Robert Randall” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 4, Petition Number 13b]
Order of the Executive Council on the Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Randall
“Jany 11th 1798/1799 Mr Randall having this day declared that the exclusive possession of the Reserve between the Military reserve at the Chippawa at the head of Canby’s Mill Race is indispensably necessary to the purposes of his undertaking, the Board without examining the rest of [….] whether it wod be proper to acceed to the rest of his requisitions is unavoidably of opinion that the Prayer of his Petition cannot be granted [Initialed] JE Confirmed in Council [Signed] Peter Russell” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 4, Petition Number 65e]
Mentioned in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of David Palmer Utter Received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Jul 1795
“Sheweth—That your Petitioner has in his possession two Hundred acres of Land with the broken front formerly taken up by Simon Ray, (deceased) That Your Petitioner is willing to defray all funeral Expences of the said Simon Ray, on the terms that his Excellency of his Wisdom in Councill shall think proper to grant—That your Petitioner under these Circumstances, hopes your Excellency will be pleased to grant him a Deed of Such acres of Land, as You of your great Wisdom may think fit—And your Petitioner in duty bound shall ever pray [Signed] David P Utter” Received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Jul 1795. Ordered recommended to grant the prayer of the Petition, the land prayed for having been escheated from Simon Ray to the Crown. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “U-V” Bundle 2, Petition Number 8]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Thomas Redford dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 29 Mar 1794
“Humbly Sheweth That your petitioner wishing to become an Inhabitant in the Town of Newark and to build in said Town during the ensuing season requests that he may be permitted to take up and occupy Lott No [7]6 in said Town, and your petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Executive Council Notation “for Lot 6—or perhaps 16 Newark” No Executive Council dates or order on the petition. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle Miscellaneous 1777-1794, Petition Number 24]
Deed from Thomas Redford to William Dickson dated on 19 Mar 1798 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Dickson
“Know all Men by these Presents that I Thomas Redford of Newark in the County of Lincoln and Home district Yeoman am held and firmly bound unto William Dickson of the same place, Esquire in the Sum of three Hundred pounds of lawful money of the province to be well and truly paid to him the said William Dickson, his Heirs Executors Administrators or assigns and for which payment to be well & truly made I bind myself my Heirs, Executors and administrators firmly by these presents sealed with my Seal and dated at Newark aforesaid this ninth day of March in the year of our lord one Thousand Seven Hundred and Ninety Eight. The Condition of this Obligation is such that Whereas the said William Dickson has in hand paid to me a valuable Consideration that is to say the Sum of three Hundred pounds money aforesaid as the full price, value & purchase Money of a certain Tract or parcel of land to me the said Thomas Redford heretofore graciously granted by our Sovereign Lord the King, thro his Executive Council in and for this province, as by the minutes and certificate thereof more fully appears such tract or parcel of land containing by admeasurement three hundred acres and to be located in such part of the vacant land of Government in this province [as to] the said William Dickson (whom to that Effect I have and do hereby nominate my lawful Attorney) shall seem meet and expedient and released, assured, conveyed confirmed & forever claimquitted the premises to him the said William Dickson his heirs and assigns forever as well as all my right, Title claim and Interest whatsoever therein. Now therefore if I the said Thomas Redford shall by a Good and Sufficient Title convey and assure in due form of law the tract or parcel of land aforesaid unto the said William Dickson so as the Inheritance thereof shall vest in the said William Dickson his Heirs and assigns for ever, either by his procuring an order of the Honorable the Executive Council to authorize the Deed for the said tract or parcel of land to issue in the name and to the use of the said William Dickson as my assignee or by transferring the Deed of Grant thereof unto the said William Dickson his heirs & Assigns should the Same issue in my name – and further if I the said Thomas Redford do sign Seal and and [sic] execute all such letters of attorney – Deeds – Conveyances – and Releases as may be requisite for the more perfect assurance and conveyance of the premises unto the aforesaid William Dickson his heirs and assigns for ever, when and so often as thereunto requested then this Obligation to be nul & void otherwise to be and continue in full force and Virtue [Signed] Thos Redord. Signed Sealed and delivered in presence of [Signed] A Macdonell, John McKay” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 1pppp]
Certificate of Joseph Edwards J. P. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 3 Mar 1798 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Dickson
“Personally came before me the within named Thomas Redford who being duly interrogated declared the above to be his act and Deed – and that it is his prayer & wish that His Majesty’s Deed of Grant of the lands therein mentioned do issue in his right to the within named William Dickson Esquire his assignee to the only use of the said William Dickson his heirs & assigns – Newark 3rd March 1798—[Signed] James Muirhead J. P., Josh Edwards J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “D” Bundle 4, Petition Number 1rrrr]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Thomas Redford dated at Niagara on 9 May 1797
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner served His Majesty during the late War at Carleton Island and Detroit for the Space of three years as per annexed Certificate; your Petitioner therefore Prays your Honor would be pleased to Grant him such a Portion of the Waste Lands, as your Honor may think him entitled to from his Services, And as in Duty Bound will ever Pray—[Signed] Thomas Redford” Received at the Executive Council Office on 9 May 1797 and read in Council on 5 Jan 1798. Ordered recommended for 300 acres as an artificer who served during the war. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 4, Petition Number 47]
Certificate of James Clark dated on 30 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Thomas Redford
“I do certify that the bearer Thomas Redford did Serve His Majesty as an Artificer in the Marine department at Carleton Island and Detroit in the Years 1780, 1784 and 1788, and was discharged at the reduction in November 1782 – [Signed] James Clark Senr late Clerk of the Checque and Storekeeper marine dept Upper Lakes—To all concerned” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 4, Petition Number 47a]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Rees of the Township of Pelham received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Mar 1797
“Humbly Sheweth That your petitioner came into this province In the year 1788 Brought with him a wife and Six childring has ever since been living On Lands is now Living on Lots 14 & 15 in 3 Concession Township of Pelham your petitioner prays That the same May be Secured to him and such further quantity as your Honor May think proper to grant and As in Duty Bound your Petitioner will Ever pray. [Signed] Jacob ReeB” Received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Mar 1797 and read in Council on 21 Mar 1797. Ordered to be confirmed in Lots No 14 and 15 3d Concession of Pelham if not under prior claims – and 350 acres as family lands if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 2, Petition Number 62]
Certificate of David Secord dated 5 Mar 1797 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Rees
“I do Certify that the Bearer Jacob Rees came into this province in the year 1788 Brought With Him a wife & six childring Given under My Hand this Fifth Day of March 1797 [Signed] David Secord” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 2, Petition Number 62]
Certificate of David Secord dated 15 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Rees
“I do Cartify that the Bearer Jacob Rees Hath Taken the Oath to Baer Faith and True Allegiance to His Majesty King George the Third & to Defend to the utmost of His Power His Sacred Parson Crown & Government Given under My Hand This fifteenth Day March 1797 [Signed] David Secord” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 2, Petition Number 62b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Rees of Wainfleet dated at York (Toronto) on 9 Jul 1799
“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner is married to Mary – the Daughter of John Parker of the above named Township – a U. E. as [stn] the Return of the Magistrates of the Home District – that your Petitioners wife having never received any Land – your Petitioner prays your Honor would be pleased to grant her 200 acres – as the Daughter of a U. E. and as in duty bound your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] John Rees” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Jul 1799. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as a daughter of a UE” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 4, Petition Number 73]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Joseph Rees dated at Niagara on 12 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“The Petition of Joseph Rees of the Township of Pelham, respectfully shews—That your petitioner came into the Province in the year 1789 with a wife & four children & has at present [….] that he has received in the said Township – one Hundred Acres, only, which he has improved. That he has taken the usual oaths, & is ready to subscribe the declaration, that he professes the Christian Religion, and obedience to the laws, and has lived inoffensively in the country. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him 200 acres in addition, Land for his Family 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] [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 2, Petition Number 19]
Order of the Executive Council attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Joseph Rees
Read in the Executive Council on 12 Jul. Ordered recommended for 200 acres. Ordered nothing appears to entitle the petitioner to any additional land. Read again on 18 Oct. Ordered when the above endorsement was put on this petition it stated that the petitioner had received 200 acres – it is now altered to 100 acres – If the first number was an error (which may be known by reference to the Surveyor General)- 200 acres in addition will be allowed him in consideration of his family – unless a Magistrates Certificate is adduced of his having brot a wife & four children into the province in 1789 – in which case he will receive 250 acres in addition to former grants if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “R” Bundle 2, Petition Number 19a]
Included in a list of persons from whom the Honourable Robert Hamilton, J. P. of Queenston purchased land warrants or rights and the township for which the warrant was issued.
Joseph Rees – Full Fees 200 acres in Windham Township [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 4, Petition Number 117u]
Receipt issued at the Receiver General’s Office on 28 Jun 1805 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Hamilton
“No 1032 The Honble Thomas Scott has paid into this office for the Honble Robert Hamilton £3.5.2 Being the Patent fee on a grant on 200 acres (Lot No 15 in 3d Concession of Windham) under an order of Council dated 18th June 1799 as Purchaser from the Original Nominee Joseph Rees – The Surveying fees (if any to be paid at the Surveyor Generals Office [Signed] Peter Russell R Gen To The Attorney General & Surveyor General” Added note: [should be 26 June 1799 being confirmed that day [Initialled] JB” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 4, Petition Number 117t]