Land Petitions of the Niagara Settlers "Shaw to Simons"


Shaw, Michael

Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Shaw dated on 23 Sep 1796

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner served during the late war as a Private in Col: Butlers Rangers. That he is married to the Daughter of a Loyalist and has 3 Boys, 2 of whom were born previous to the year 1789. That your Petitioner is desirous of Claiming his Majesty’s Bounty in a Grant of Lands, and trusts to your Honor in allotting him such a Quantity as may in Your Wisdom be thought equivalent to His Serves, his situation and his Prospect in a rising family of Boys and your Petitioner as in duty Bound will ever Pray [Signed] Michael Shaw” Received at the Executive Council Office on 23 Sep 1796 and read in Council on 8 Oct 1796. Ordered 300 acres if not granted before & 200 acres in right of his wife the Daughter of a Loyalist – on producing the required Certificate of her being so – the children not being brought into this Province before 90 – Petitioner not entitled to family lands for them. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 13]

Certificate of William Dickson, J. P. dated 23 Sep 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Shaw

“I do hereby Certify that on this 23rd day of September 1796, Michael Shaw from Tioga, but late of Butlers Rangers – appeared before me William Dickson Esquire, one of His Majestys Justices of the Peace in and for the Home District, and took the oath of Allegiance and signed the Declaration [Signed] William Dickson, J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 13a]

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

25 Aug 1796 Michael Shaw, Butlers rangers—a Location

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]

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

14 Oct 1796 Michael Shaw, for his wife the daughter of Jabez Colver – 200 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]

Named in “Report of Persons recommended by Paul Averill, with the Lots subscribed for by them” in Townsend Township, Norfolk County prepared by Acting Surveyor General David W. Smith dated on 5 Apr 1797 [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 62]

Grantee: Shaw, Michael authorized by Paul Averill on 13 Oct 1796; Lot asked for: Lot 7 and half of Lot 8 Concession 13

An old Ranger, son in law of Jabez Colver and recommended by His Honour

Named in the Townsend Report prepared by Acting Surveyor General David W. Smith dated on 5 Apr 1797 applying for settlement in Townsend Township, Norfolk County but deferred to Jun 1, 1797 [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 62]

Michael Shaw’s wife Lot 5 Concession 13


Shaw, Anna (Martin)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Anna (Shaw) Martin wife of Peter Martin of Burford dated in Charlotteville Township, Norfolk County on 14 Apr 1818

“Humbly Sheweth That your petitioner is the Daughter of Michael Shaw of the Province aforesaid a UE Loyalist — That your petitioner has arrived to the Age of twenty one years, and upwards, is Married to Peter Martin of the township of Townsend aforesaid and has never received any land or Order for land from the Crown. Wherefore your petitioner humbly Prays that your Honour will be pleased to take her Case into consideration and Grant to your petitioner two hundred Acres of the waste Lands of the Crown within the said province, and that your Honor will be pleased to permit Michael Shaw the Father of Your petitioner to locate the same and take the Grant for the same when completed. And Your petitioner will ever pray [Signed] Anna Martin” Read in the Executive Council on 6 Mar 1821. Order issue for 200 acres on 10 Mar 1821. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 13, Petition Number 28]

Deposition of John Backhouse, Chairman of the London District Court dated 14 Apr 1818 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Anna (Shaw) Martin

“London District to wit} At a Court of General Quarter Sessions of the peace holden in and for the said District on this 14th day of April 1818. Personally Apeared the within named Anna Martin who being duly sworn deposeth and saith that she is the person she describes herself to be in the within petition and that she has never received any Land or order for land from the Crown. Sworn before me in Court this 14th of April 1818 [Signed] Anna Martin [Signed] Jn Backhouse chairman” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 13, Petition Number 28a]

Certificate of William D. Bowen, J. P. dated at Charlotteville on 14 Apr 1818 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Anna (Shaw) Martin

“District of London} I William D. Bowen one of his Majestys Justices of the Peace in and for the said District do Certify that the said Anna Martin is the Daughter of Michael Shaw of the Township of Townsend in the said District that she is married to Peter Martin of Townsend and has never drawn any Land or received any order for land from the Crown to the best of my knowledge and belief [Signed Wm D Bowen J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 13, Petition Number 28a]

Deposition of John Backhouse Chairman of the London District Court and Richard William Dease Clerk of the Peace dated in Charlotteville, Norfolk County on 14 Apr 1818 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Anna (Shaw) Martin

“We John Backhouse Chairman and Richard William Dease Clerk of the Peace, Certify that Anna Martin Daughter of Michael Shaw of the Township of Townsend personally appeared at the General Quarter Sessions of the Peace this day is recognized by the Magistrates to be the Daughter of Michal [sic] Shaw of Townsend who retained his Loyalty during the late war without suspicion of aiding or assisting the enemy and that the said Peter Martin her husband did his duty in defence of the Province during the late war. Dated at the Courthouse in Charlotteville this fourteenth day of April 1818. [Signed] Jn Backhouse chairman” [Signed] R William Dease C. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 13, Petition Number 28b]

Deposition of Thomas Hornor dated in York [Toronto] on 22 Feb 1821 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Anna (Shaw) Martin

“I Certify that the Petitioner — Anna Martin now resides in Burford and is one of my near neighbours — York 22d February 1821 — [Signed] Thomas Hornor” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 13, Petition Number 28b]


Shaw, Benjamin C.

Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin C. Shoff (written above Shaw) of the Township of Townsend dated at Simcoe, Talbot District on 15 Apr 1840

Humbly sheweth That your petitioner is the son of Michael Shoff a U. E. Loyalist. Of the township of Townsend, that he has attained the age of 21 years and upwards and has never received any land or order for Land from the Crown. Wherefore your petitioner humbly prays that your Excellency may be pleased to grant him two hundred acres of the waste lands of the Crown as the son of a U. E. Loyalist; and your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray. [Signed] Benjamin C. Shaw” Note at the bottom: The Signature does not correspond with the man at the head of this Petition –” At the head the surname was written “Shoff,” then “Shaw” was written above it. Received in the Executive Council on 31 Jul 1840 and ordered referred to the Inspector General. Recommended in Committee on 11 April 1851 and recommended in the Executive Council the same day. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 6, Petition Number 51]

Deposition of John Mackelcan, Deputy Clerk of the Peace dated 15 Apr 1840 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin C. Shaw

“Talbot District To wit} Benjamin Shoff of the township of Townsend maketh oath and saith that he is the person he has described himself to be in the within petition and that he has attained the full age of twenty one years and upwards, and has never received any land or order for land from the Crown. Sworn before me at Simcoe in this Talbot District this 15 Day of April 1840 [Signed] Benjamin C. Shaw [Signed] John Mackelcan Dpy Clk Peace” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 6, Petition Number 51a]

Deposition of Aron Culver dated on 15 Apr 1840 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin C. Shaw

“District of Talbot To Wit} Aron Culver of the township of Woodhouse [maketh] oath and saith that Benjamin C. Shoff is the person he has described himself to be on the within petition and that he never had any land or order for land from the Crown to the best of his knowledge and belief. Sworn before me at Simcoe in this Talbot District this 15 day of April 1840. [Signed] Aron Culver [Signed] John Mackelcan Depy Clk Peace” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 6, Petition Number 51a]

Deposition of James Covernton Esquire Chairman of the Quarter Sessions of the Peace and John Mackelcan, Deputy Clerk of the Peace for the District of Talbot attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin C. Shaw

“District of Talbot To wit} We James Covernton Esquire Chairman of the Quarter Sessions of the Peace assembled and John Mackelcan Deputy Clerk of the Peace for the said District of Talbot, do hereby certify that it has been proved to the satisfaction of the Council that Benjamin C Shoff is the [son of] Michael Shoff of the township of Townsend [and has never received any land or order for land from the Crown] [……..] [Signed] John Mackelcan Deputy Clerk of the Peace [Signed] Jas Covernton Chairman” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 6, Petition Number 51b]

Deposition of John Mackelcan Deputy Clerk of the Peace for the District of Talbot attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin C. Shaw

Talbot District To Wit} I John Mackelcan Deputy Clerk of the Peace for the District of Talbot do hereby certify that Benjamin Shoff has taken the oath of Allegiance in open court of Quarter Sessions and subscribed the same [Signed] John Mackelcan Depy Clk Peace” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 6, Petition Number 51b]

Deposition of William Salmon and William M. Mercer dated on 25 Feb 1840 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin C. Shaw

“Clerk Peace office Simcoe County of Norfolk C. W. 25th Feby 1850. I hereby Certify that I have examined the foregoing Petition affidavits & certificates, and that the name of Benjamin C. Shoff which appears therein, is a clerical error, and should have been written “Benjamin C Shaw” which is the true name of the person applying, and whose identity was proved to the satisfaction of the court — [Signed] William Salmon Judge County Court [Signed Wm M Wilson Clk Peace” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 6, Petition Number 51c]

Recommendation of the CLD dated on 9 Apr 1851 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin C. Shaw

“The Petitioner has been privileged by the Deputy Inspector Genl as the son of Michael Shoff or Shaw an UE Loyalist. He has received no land, or order for Land or Scrip it is therefore recommended that Scrip equal to 200 acres be granted him. CLD 9 April 1851. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 6, Petition Number 51c]

Deposition of Thomas William Walsh of the Town of Simcoe, Norfolk County dated on 14 Jan 1851 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Dennis Shoff

County of York to wit} Thomas William Walsh of the Town of Simcoe in the County of Norfolk (late Talbot District) and Province of Canada Provincial Land Surveyor maketh Oath and saith That he is well acquainted with the Family of the late Michael Shaw senior late of the Township of Townsend yeoman. He saith that the said Michael Shaw died in the Township of Townsend some three years (or thereabout) since at the age of between eighty and ninety years — That the said Michael Shaw senr had a son by the name of Michael Shaw (who has been dead some Eight or nine years) and one Benjamin C. Shaw the present applicant for Land as a U. E. Loyalist. That the said Benjamin C Shaw is a son of the said Michael Shaw senr And Brother of the said Michael Shaw Jr decd That the said Benjamin C. Shaw now resides in the Township of Townsend near the Town of Simcoe And further that said Michael Shaw senr was one of the earliest settlers in that section of the country but in what year deponent could not say/ Further this deponent saith not — Subscribed & Sworn to by said deponent this 14 day of January 1851 [Signed] Thos W Walsh [Signed] Thomas Bell J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 6, Petition Number 51d]

Order of the Inspector General dated on 12 Apr 1850 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Dennis Shoff

“Petitioner must show whether he is a Son of Michael Shaw Senr or Michael Shaw Junr He should give his own age & his Father’s age with any other particulars — IGD 12 Apr 1850 Mr Bell had written for proof he had no reply” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 6, Petition Number 51g]


Shaw, Dennis

Upper Canada Land Petition of Dennis Shaw of the Township of Townsend Yeoman dated 11 Sep 1810

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner is of the full age of twenty one years and son of Michael Shaw, of the Township of Townsend a U. E. Loyalist, and has taken the oath of Alegians [sic] as will appear in the annexed Certificate, and has never Received any Land or order for Land from the Crown – Wherefore your Petitioner Prays that your Excellency May be Pleased to Grant him two Hundred acres of Waste Lands of the Crown, And Permit Michael Shaw yeoman of the Township of Townsend to be his Agent to Locate the Same and take out the Deed When Completed and your Petitioner as in Duty Bound will Ever Pray [Signed] Dennis Shaw” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 9, Petition Number 139]

Deposition of Thomas Welch, Chairman of the London District Court dated 11 Sep 1810 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Dennis Shoff

“Denis Shaw Maketh oath and saith that he is the Person he Describes himself to be in the above Petition he has attained the full age of twenty one years and has never Received any Land or order for Land from the Crown. Sworn before me in General Quarter sessions of the Peace for the District of London at the Court house in Charlottville this Eleventh Day of September In the year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred and ten [Signed] Dennis Shaw [Signed] Thomas Welch Chairman” Received in the Lieutenant Governor’s Office in York on 9 Oct 1810 and referred to the Executive Council. Noted the name of Michael Shaw of the late Home District is inserted on the UE list. Read in Council on 12 Oct 1810 and ordered recommended for a grant of 200 acres of land as the son of a UE Loyalist. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 9, Petition Number 139]

Deposition of John Beemer JP dated on 6 Oct 1810 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Dennis Shoff

“this may Certify that Denis Shaw has made and subscribed to the oath of allegiance as prescribed by Law Before me this sixth day of October 1810 [Signed] John Bemer JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 9, Petition Number 139c]


Shaw, Dennis

Upper Canada Land Petition of Dennis Shaw of the Township of Townsend Yeoman dated 11 Sep 1810

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner is of the full age of twenty one years and son of Michael Shaw, of the Township of Townsend a U. E. Loyalist, and has taken the oath of Alegians [sic] as will appear in the annexed Certificate, and has never Received any Land or order for Land from the Crown – Wherefore your Petitioner Prays that your Excellency May be Pleased to Grant him two Hundred acres of Waste Lands of the Crown, And Permit Michael Shaw yeoman of the Township of Townsend to be his Agent to Locate the Same and take out the Deed When Completed and your Petitioner as in Duty Bound will Ever Pray [Signed] Dennis Shaw” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 9, Petition Number 139]

Deposition of Thomas Welch, Chairman of the London District Court dated 11 Sep 1810 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Dennis Shoff

“Denis Shaw Maketh oath and saith that he is the Person he Describes himself to be in the above Petition he has attained the full age of twenty one years and has never Received any Land or order for Land from the Crown. Sworn before me in General Quarter sessions of the Peace for the District of London at the Court house in Charlottville this Eleventh Day of September In the year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred and ten [Signed] Dennis Shaw [Signed] Thomas Welch Chairman” Received in the Lieutenant Governor’s Office in York on 9 Oct 1810 and referred to the Executive Council. Noted the name of Michael Shaw of the late Home District is inserted on the UE list. Read in Council on 12 Oct 1810 and ordered recommended for a grant of 200 acres of land as the son of a UE Loyalist. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “C” Bundle 9, Petition Number 139]

Deposition of John Beemer JP dated on 6 Oct 1810 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Dennis Shoff

“this may Certify that Denis Shaw has made and subscribed to the oath of allegiance as prescribed by Law Before me this sixth day of October 1810 [Signed] John Bemer JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 9, Petition Number 139c]


Shaw, Dorothy (later Book)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Dorothy Shaw of Ancaster Township dated on 14 Oct 1829

“The Petition of Dorothy Shaw of the Township of Ancaster in the Gore District spinster Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is The daughter of Michael Shaw an enrolled U. E. Loyalist, is twenty one years of age and has never had any land or order for land 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 your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever Pray – ” Dorothy Shaw made her mark. Read in Council on 5 Feb 1831 and ordered recommended by the Executive Council on 10 Feb 1831. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 16, Petition Number 111]

Deposition of Robert Boone, Clerk of the Gore District Court attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Dorothy Shaw dated on 14 Oct 1829

“Gore District To wit} Dorothy Shaw maketh oath and saith 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 – ” Dorothy Shaw made her mark. Sworn in General Quarter Sessions this fourteenth day of October 1829 and I hereby Certify that the above affidavit was [….] over to the land department before swearing and she seemed [….] to understand the same [Signed] Robt Boone C. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 16, Petition Number 111]

Deposition of Henry Shoff of Ancaster Township yeoman dated on 14 Oct 1829 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Dorothy Shaw dated on 14 Oct 1829

“Gore District To wit} I do certify that Dorothy Shaw the above named Petitioner is the person she describes herself 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. Given under my hand in open Session this 14th day of October 1829.” Henry Shoff made his mark. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 16, Petition Number 111a]

Certificate of John Willson Esquire Chairman and Robert Berrie Clerk of the Peace attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Dorothy Shaw dated on 14 Oct 1829

“District of Gore To wit} We John Willson Esquire chairman and Robert Berrie Esquire Clerk of the Peace certify that Dorothy Shaw personally appeared at the General Quarter Sessions of the Peace this day, is recognized by the Magistrates to be the daughter of Michael Shaw who retained his loyalty during the late war without aiding or assisting the enemy. Dated at the Court House at Hamilton in the District of Gore this fourteenth day of October 1829 – [Signed] Robt Boone C. P.” [Signed] John Willson chairman” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 16, Petition Number 111a]


Shaw, Jacob

Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Shaw of Townsend in the District of London yeoman dated at Charlotteville on 11 Apr 1820

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is a son of Michael Shaw of the District of London a U. E. Loyalist that he has attained the age of Twenty one years and upwards and has never drawn any Land or received any order for Land from the Crown. Wherefore your Petitioner Humbly prays your Excellency would please to take his case into consideration and allow him Two hundred Acres of the waste Lands of the Crown And your Petitioner As in Duty bound Will ever pray [Signed] Jacob Shaw” Received in the Executive Council Office on 26 Jul 1820 and read in Council on 26 Jul 1820. Order issued 27 Jul 1820 [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 12, Petition Number 355]

Deposition of John Backhouse, Chairman of the London District Court attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Shaw

“At a Court of General Quarter Sessions of the Peace holden at the Courthouse in Charlotteville on the eleventh day of April in the first year of his Majestys Reign personally appeared the within named Jacob Shaw who being duly sworn deposeth and saith that he is the person he describes himself to be in the within Petition and has never drawn any Land or received any order for Land from the Crown [Signed] Jacob Shaw Sworn in Sessions 11th April 1820 [Signed] Jn Backhouse Chairman” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 12, Petition Number 355a]

Deposition of Thomas Bowlby dated in Charlotteville on 12 Apr 1829 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Shaw

“District of London} At a General Quarter Sessions of the Peace holden at the Court house in Charlotteville personally appeared Thomas Bowlby Esquire who being sworn saith that the within named Jacob Shaw is person he describes himself to be in the within petition and has never drawn any Land or received any order for Land from the Crown to the best of his knowledge and belief [Signed Thomas Bowlby Charlotteville 12th April 1829 [Signed] Jn Backhouse J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 12, Petition Number 355a]

Deposition of John Backhouse Chairman and Richard William Dease Clerk of the Peace attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Shaw

“District of London} We John Backhouse Esquire Chairman and Richard William Dease Clerk of the Peace, Certify that Jacob Shaw personally appeared at the General Quarter Sessions of the Peace this day, is recognized by the Magistrates to be the son of Michael Shaw of Townsend in the said District who retained his loyalty during the late war without suspicion of aiding or assisting the enemy and that the said Jacob Shaw did his duty in defence of the Province during the late war. Dated at the Courthouse in Charlotteville this Eleventh day of April in the year of Our Lord 1820 [Signed] Jn Backhouse Chairman [Signed R William Dease Clk P Londn Dist[Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 12, Petition Number 355b]


Shaw, Michael

Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Shaw dated on 23 Sep 1796

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner served during the late war as a Private in Col: Butlers Rangers. That he is married to the Daughter of a Loyalist and has 3 Boys, 2 of whom were born previous to the year 1789. That your Petitioner is desirous of Claiming his Majesty’s Bounty in a Grant of Lands, and trusts to your Honor in allotting him such a Quantity as may in Your Wisdom be thought equivalent to His Serves, his situation and his Prospect in a rising family of Boys and your Petitioner as in duty Bound will ever Pray [Signed] Michael Shaw” Received at the Executive Council Office on 23 Sep 1796 and read in Council on 8 Oct 1796. Ordered 300 acres if not granted before & 200 acres in right of his wife the Daughter of a Loyalist – on producing the required Certificate of her being so – the children not being brought into this Province before 90 – Petitioner not entitled to family lands for them. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 13]

Certificate of William Dickson, J. P. dated 23 Sep 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Shaw

“I do hereby Certify that on this 23rd day of September 1796, Michael Shaw from Tioga, but late of Butlers Rangers – appeared before me William Dickson Esquire, one of His Majestys Justices of the Peace in and for the Home District, and took the oath of Allegiance and signed the Declaration [Signed] William Dickson, J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 13a]

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

25 Aug 1796 Michael Shaw, Butlers rangers—a Location

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]

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

14 Oct 1796 Michael Shaw, for his wife the daughter of Jabez Colver – 200 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]

Named in “Report of Persons recommended by Paul Averill, with the Lots subscribed for by them” in Townsend Township, Norfolk County prepared by Acting Surveyor General David W. Smith dated on 5 Apr 1797 [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 62]

Grantee: Shaw, Michael authorized by Paul Averill on 13 Oct 1796; Lot asked for: Lot 7 and half of Lot 8 Concession 13

An old Ranger, son in law of Jabez Colver and recommended by His Honour

Named in the Townsend Report prepared by Acting Surveyor General David W. Smith dated on 5 Apr 1797 applying for settlement in Townsend Township, Norfolk County but deferred to Jun 1, 1797 [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 3, Petition Number 62]

Michael Shaw’s wife Lot 5 Concession 13


Shaw, Michael Jr,

Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Shaw Junior dated in Townsend Township, Norfolk County on 14 Mar 1815

Humbly Sheweth – That your Petitioner is the Son of Michael Shaw Sergnt of Townsend in the London District an U E Loyalist is of the full age of Twenty one years and has never received any Land or Order of land from the Crown Wherefore your Petitioner humbly prayeth that Your Honor will be pleased to order him a location of Two Hundred Acres of the waste Lands of the Crown and allow Reubin Green to be his Agent to locate and take out the Patent for the Same and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray Townsend March 14th 1815 [Signed] Michael Shaw Jr” Received in the Executive Council Office on 23 Dec 1815. “It does not appear that the Petitioner has had any Land by order in Council. [Signed] J. Small” Read in Council 23 Dec 1815 and ordered a grant of 200 acres of land as the SUE Loyalist. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 10, Petition Number 146]

Deposition of John Backhouse, Chairman of the London District Court dated on 15 Mar 1815 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Shaw Junior

London District} Michael Shaw Junr maketh oath and Saith that he is the person he hath describeth himself to be in the foregoing petition and has never received any Land or Order for Land from the Crown—[Signed] Michael Shaw juner” “Sworn in Open Sessions this Fifteenth Day of March 1815} [Signed] Jn Backhouse Chairman” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 10, Petition Number 146a]

Deposition of John Backhouse Chairman of the London District Court dated on 15 Mar 1815 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Shaw Junior

“Michael Shaw Junior maketh Oath and saith that the Petitioner is the person he describes himself to be and that he has never received any Land or Order for Land from the Crown—to the best of his knowledge—Sworn in Open Sessions this Fifteenth Day of March 1815} [Signed Jn Backhouse Chairman [Signed] Michael Shaw” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 10, Petition Number 146a]

Certificate of George C. Salmon J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Shaw Junior

“I Certify that Michael Shaw (son of a U. E. Loyalist has taken the Oath of Allegiance prescribed by Law before me [Signed] George C Salmon J. P. Woodhouse Decr 18th 1815” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 10, Petition Number 146a]

Deposition of Thomas Welch, Chairman of the London District Court dated 11 Sep 1810 regarding Michael Shaw attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Dennis Shoff

“Michael Shaw Maketh oath and saith that he is the Person he Describes himself to be In the Above Petition and that he has never Received any Lands or Order for Land from the Crown to the Best of his Knowledge and Belief — Sworn before me in General Quarter Sessions of the District of London in Charlotteville this Eleventh Day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and ten [Signed] Michael Shaw [Signed] Thomas Welch Chairman” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 9, Petition Number 139a]


Shaw, Selinda (Slaght)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Selinda Slaght of the Township of Townsend in the London District dated in Charlotteville on 11 Apr 1821

“Humbly Sheweth, That your Petitioner is the Daughter of Michael Shaw of Townsend Londn Dist an enrolled U. E. Loyalist is of the full age of twenty one Years (is married to Job Slaght of Townsend (aforesaid), who has taken the oath of allegiance, has never had any Lands or order for Lands from the Crown. Therefore humbly prays that your Excellency may be pleased to grant her two hundred acres of the waste Lands of the Crown, and permit Job Slaght her said husband to locate the Land. And Your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] Selinda Slaght” Read in the Executive Council on 22 Aug 1821. D. U. E. Order in Council issued on 28 Aug 1821. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 13, Petition Number 43]

Deposition of George C. Salmon J. P. and John B. Askin Clerk of the Peace dated on 11 Apr 1821 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Selinda Slaght

“Upper Canada District of London} Selinda Slaght maketh oath that she is the person she describes herself to be in the within petition is of the full age of twenty one years and has never had any Lands, or order for Lands from the Crown. Sworn in General Quarter Sessions of the Peace this 11 day of April 1821 – [Signed] Selida Slaght [Signed] George C. Salmon J. P. [Signed] John B Askin Clerk of the Peace” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 13, Petition Number 43a]

Deposition of George C. Salmon Esquire attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Selinda Slaght

“District of London} George C. Salmon Esquire maketh oath that Selinda Slaght the within petitioner is the person she describes herself to be and has never had any Lands or order for Lands from the Crown to the best of my knowledge and belief [Signed] George C. Salmon” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 13, Petition Number 43b]

Deposition of John Backhouse Esquire Chairman and John B Askin Clerk of the Peace dated in Vittoria, Norfolk County on 11 Apr 1821 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Selinda Slaght

“District of London} We John Backhouse Esquire Chairman and John B Askin Clerk of the Peace do Certify that Selinda Slaght personally appeared at the General Quarter Sessions of the Peace this day is recognized by the Magistrates to be the Daughter of Michael Shaw of Townsend—who retained his Loyalty during the late war without any suspicion of aiding or assisting the Enemy – and that Job Slaght — her said husband did his duty in defence of the Province during the late War. Dated at the Court House at Vittoria in the said District this Eleventh day of April one thousand Eight hundred & twenty one — [Signed] Jn Backhouse chairman [Signed] John B Askin Clerk of the Peace London District” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 13, Petition Number 43b]


Shaw, Oneas

Included in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Captain David Shank and other Loyalist Officers dated at Niagara on 19 Jul 1793

“The Petition of Captain David Shank, Captain Samuel Smith, Captain John McGill, Captain Oneas Shaw, Captain Spencer, Captain Wm Hamilton, Lieutenant Allan McNabb, Lieutenant Arthur H. Brooking, Lieutenant William Mayne Duncanson, Ensign John McGill, & Surgeons David Burns, and James Macaulay—humbly sheweth That agreeable to His Majesty’s Proclamations your Petitioners are severally entitled to certain rated Grants of the Waste Lands of the Crown for their respective Services during the late War in America. That your Petitioners have not as yet received the Complement of lands so due to them as aforesaid. That your Petitioners are desiring of locating a part of the lands to which they stand entitled in respect of their Services as aforesaid, in this District. Wherefore your Petitioners pray that your Excellency would be pleased to allot to Captain David Shank one Thousand five Hundred Acres of land, and to each and every other of your other Petitioners One Thousand Acres of land in a Township laying immediately behind Burlington Bay the front of which is formed by the North side of His Majesty’s Highway leading from the said Burlington Bay to the River Latranche or New Thames as lately traced by Your Excellencys Directions. And your Petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray &ca In behalf of the Petitioners [Signed] David Burns” Read in Council on 23 Jul 1793. Ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 4]


Shearer, Robert

Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Shearer of Saltfleet dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 18 Mar 1797

“Humbly shews That your Petitioner is the son of a Loyalist, and came to this Province about nine months ago; that he is desirous to settle therein and is in a condition to cultivate Lands – He therefore prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him four Hundred acres, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Robert Shearer” Received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Mar 1797 and read in Council on 21 Mar 1797. Ordered 200 acres to be located in the Long Point Settlement [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 155]

Certificate of John Moore dated on 15 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Shearer

“I Do hereby Certifie that in the late war between the Crown of Great Brittian and the States of America the beraer Robert Sherer was an Infant and that his father John Sheraer was a Loyalist and that on the acount of which he was prosecuted and Confined in prison and then he was Confined until his Death and his family So Distressed by that means that his widow was obliged to bind out her children of which the Bareier is one and the whole family ware all Ruined and Distressed among other people Certified by John Moore” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 155b]

Certificate of Nathaniel Pettit dated on 16 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Shearer

“I do hereby Cotifie that the barer Robert Shearer Came into this province about Nine month past that During that Time hath behaved himself as an Industress honnest younge man and apears to be worthey of his Majestyes Bounty of Land and that he apered before me this Day and Took the oath of Alegence and Subscribed the Declaration as by law Directed Certified [Signed] Nathl Pettit” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 155b]


Sheehan, Elizabeth P.

Upper Canada Land Petition of Elizabeth P. Sheehan dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 13 Mar 1796

“Humbly Sheweth, That your Petitioners Father in the Capacity of Senior Naval officer on Lake Ontario has Faithfully Served His Majesty during the Greatest Part of the late War in America, and having understood that His Majestys Bounty had been extended to one of his Children in the instance of Miss Andres. Your Petitioner Prays the like indulgence, or Such other Quantity as your Excellency may think fit – And your Petitioner as in Duty Bound will ever Pray – [Signed] Elizabeth P. Sheehan” No Executive Council dates on the Petition. Ordered recommended for 1200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 113]


Sheehan, Walter Butler

Upper Canada Land Petition of W. B. Sheehan dated at Niagara on 5 Nov 1793

“Humbly Sheweth That Your Petitioner having Served his Majesty during the late War in America as Ensign in the Kings (or 8th) Regt and afterwards as Lieutenant in the 34th Regt but having Sold his Commission the year 1787 is not entitled to half Pay lands—Your Petitioner therefore prays your Excellency will be pleased to Grant him Such portion of lands as reduced officers have received, or Such other Quantity as your Excellency in your Wisdom shall Judge proper & your Petitioner will ever Pray &c &c [Signed] W. B. Sheehan” No Executive Council dates on the petition. Ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 35]

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Elizabeth Andrews, Elizabeth Johnston, William Johnston & W B Sheehan granted by the Executive Council on 21 Dec 1793

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioners being Desirous of Occupying Lots in the Town of Newark pray the Land Board to authorize your Petitioners to Build upon the undermentioned vacant Lots in the Said Town & your Petitioners as in Duty Bound will ever pray &c. for the Petitioners [Signed] W B Sheehan”. Added list: 193 Mrs Andrews; 194 Mrs Johnston; 235 Wm Johnston; 236 W. B. Sheehan. Order of the Executive Council 21 Dec 1793: Granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle “Misc.” Petition Number 59]

The Petition of W. B. Sheehan dated at Niagara on 12 Dec 1796

“Humbly Sheweth That Your Petitioner has experienced the very great Indulgence already from this Government in a Grant of 1200 Acres to Mrs Sheehan. Your Petitioners present situation in life and his Prospects in providing for a Young Family are by no means flattering to secure a Certain Independence which from your Petitioners former situation in life he had some expectations of. Your Petitioner throws himself again on the Indulgence of your honor and Your Council—Your Petitioner has four Children three boys and a Girl, the eldest from a fever has lost the entire use of him right Arm, could the bounty of his Majesty be extended to them in a Grant of Part of the waste Lands of the Crown it hereafter might be found very beneficial to them and add in the mean time to the pleasure and Satisfaction of the Parents whose Children will with Gratitude hereafter boast of the Attention of the British Government to the descendants of those who in the dissentions in America adhered to the Unity of the Empire—And as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] W. B. Sheehan” Received at the Executive Council Office on 26 Jan 1797 and read in Council on 7 Apr 1797. Ordered the petitioner’s children must wait until they come of age. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 124]

On a 1792 map of the Front Concession of Niagara Township included in the Upper Canada Land petition of Samuel Street, W B Sheehan was named on Lot 19. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 162]

Mentioned in the report of Thomas Ridout dated at the Solicitor General’s Office on 17 May 1799 (no petition attached)

“May it please Your Honor! The Solicitor General has lodged in the Survey Generals Office a warrant of Survey under Order of Council 22 April 1799 – to “Archibald Cunningham – Esqr for Lot No 36 in the Township of Newark (transferred by Jos: Robinson) paying full fees, under the old regulations” – and another warrant, under order of Council the 7 May 1799 – “Robt J. D. Gray Esqr: “three hundred acres – Lots N: 19 – in the 1st Concess No 28 in the 2nd – & 65 in the 3rd Concession Township No 1 – District Nassau, by purchase from the assignees of Walter Butler Sheehan” And The Solr General having requested that Description might pass the office, on the payment of the Fees of Survey – I sat about to pass them – but in so doing, the following difficulties to me presented themselves – vizt That a Description (No 4612) passed the Survey Generals office, some time ago, for Lot No 36 Township of Newark, to “Joseph Robinson, Transferred to Joseph Brown & John Chrysler—” and that the name of “Robert Lotridge” stands on Lot No 65 in the said Township* *Township No 1 – District Nassau now Newark – and in the third range of Lots from the River Niagara – by the Plan received from Quebec; – but referring to the records in this office – I find the name of W. B. Sheehan on the same Lot by the Land Board Plan of that Township—That the Sur Gens Office having received no authority, in my humble opinion, to annul the Description, issued “Joseph Robinson transferred to Joseph Brown and John Crysler” – or to erase the name of Robert Lotridge, from Lot 65 – and the Solr Genl pressing Descriptions to pass. I most Humbly pray your Honors interference and guidance therein. S. G. O. 17 May 1799 in the absence of the Actg Surr Genl [Signed] T Ridout principal Clerk” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 4, Petition Number 43]

Proceedings of the Executive Council attached to the report of Thomas Ridout

Received at the Executive Council Office on 18 May and read in Council on 28 May 1798. “There appearing to have been some oversight in not having previously had a Report from the Surveyor General before an order of Council passed on these Transfers the President directs proceedings to Stop until the Council revises the Proceedings on 23rd Apl & 7th May. [Signed] Peter Russell” “Recommended that the Clerk of the Council write to Mr Robl Lottridge or his heirs (if he be dead) to know if he or they have any & what claim on No 65 Township of Newark. The Solicitor Genl will take care that the Letter is forwarded & the Answer returned. [Initialled] JE” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 4, Petition Number 43c]

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Isaac Dey Gray dated on 24 Aug 1801

“Humbly sheweth That as transferee of Walter Butler Sheehan for three hundred acres of Land, in the Township of Niagara, an order of Council was made to him confirming the same, that on lodging the said order at the Surveyor General’s office, the name of Lottridge was found on the map on Lot 65, in consequence of which, your Honorable Council declined to confirm the said Lot to your Petitioner. That as transferee aforesaid of the [land] your Petitioner has since satisfied any claim that the said Lottridge might have had by such entry, as will appear to your Excellency by the Petition—hereunto annexed, your Petitioner therefore prays that the original order of Council may be sustained and a Deed issue of course to your Petitioner who as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Robt I D Gray Atty for Count De Puize” Received at the Lieutenant Governor’s Office on 24 Aug 1801. Ordered referred to the Executive Council by order of the Lieutenant Governor. Read in the Executive Council on 25 Aug 1801. Ordered the Board having taken this Petition into their consideration in obedience to the reference of His Excellency the Lieut. Governor recommended that the original order of Council dated the 7 of May 1799 be sustained and a deed issue accordingly to the Petitioner, R. I. D. Gray Esq. for Lott No. 19 in the 1st – 28 in the 2nd & 65 in the third Concessions of the Township of Newark in the County of Lincoln & late Home District. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 5, Petition Number 52]

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of John and William Lottridge, heirs to the late Robert Lottridge Deceased, and formerly Captain in the Indian Department attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Isaac Dey Gray

“Most Humbly represents That as Heirs to their late Father under a minute of your Honble Council, they have been granted in their right, one hundred acres of land being in the Township of Niagara, and Known as Lott No Sixty five in the third Concession of said Township, and having sold, Bargained for, and Disposed of the same unto William Dickson of Niagara, Esquire for and in Consideration of the Sum of Two Hundred and Twenty five pounds, New yk Cy, your Petitioners humbly Crave the Deed for the farm may Issue in the name of the said William Dickson his heirs or assigns—and Your Petitioners as in Duty Bound Will ever Pray—[Signed] John & William Lottridge” Received at the Lieutenant Governor’s Office on 24 Aug 1801. Ordered referred to the Executive Council by order of the Lieutenant Governor. Read in the Executive Council on 25 Aug 1801. Ordered the Board having taken this Petition into their consideration in obedience to the reference of His Excellency the Lieut. Governor recommended that the original order of Council dated the 7 of May 1799 be sustained and a deed issue accordingly to the Petitioner, R. I. D. Gray Esq. for Lott No. 19 in the 1st – 28 in the 2nd & 65 in the third Concessions of the Township of Newark in the County of Lincoln & late Home District. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 5, Petition Number 52a]


Shell, Christian

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Shell dated at York (Toronto) on 11 Jun 1798

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner and three Brothers, Mark – Frederick – & Christian Shell are lately arrived in this Province with their respective Families, being all married – and have for the present Leased a piece of ground of their great uncle Joseph Petry – in Louth – where they have planted corn, and now are; that your Petitioner, (who formerly lived near two years with Genl Murray – at Quebec, and six years, with Capt Geo. Lawe at Quebec & Bay of Chaleur) – is come forward in his own behalf & that of his Brothers and respectfully prays your Honor for an appropriation of 200 acres each, to be confirmed to them under the new regulations when it shall so seem meet to your Honor – and as in duty bound your Petitioner shall ever pray—[Signed] Henry Shell” Added note: “The Petitioner is known to Robt Nellis Esq: from whom he brought a letter (he supposes of recommendation) which was delivered to the Surr General” Marginal note: “The families consist of – 4- men; 4 – women (their wives); & 12 children [Total] 20” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Apr 1799. Ordered recommended for 200 acres under the New Regulations. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 149]


Shell, Frederick

Upper Canada Land Petition of Frederick Shell dated at York (Toronto) on 11 Jun 1798

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner with his wife and five children are lately come to this Province, together with his three Brothers and their families – and have for the present leased and planted a piece of ground on the 20 mile creek in Louth – That desirous of making a bona fide settlement he humbly prays for an appropriation of Two Hundred acres of Land, to be hereafter confirmed under the new Regulations if it should so seem meet to your Honor, and as in duty bound your petitioner will ever pray [Signed] Henry Shell for Frederick Shell” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Apr 1799 and read in Council on 20 Apr 1799. Ordered recommended for 200 acres under the New Regulations. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 117]

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Shell dated at York (Toronto) on 11 Jun 1798

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner and three Brothers, Mark – Frederick – & Christian Shell are lately arrived in this Province with their respective Families, being all married – and have for the present Leased a piece of ground of their great uncle Joseph Petry – in Louth – where they have planted corn, and now are; that your Petitioner, (who formerly lived near two years with Genl Murray – at Quebec, and six years, with Capt Geo. Lawe at Quebec & Bay of Chaleur) – is come forward in his own behalf & that of his Brothers and respectfully prays your Honor for an appropriation of 200 acres each, to be confirmed to them under the new regulations when it shall so seem meet to your Honor – and as in duty bound your Petitioner shall ever pray—[Signed] Henry Shell” Added note: “The Petitioner is known to Robt Nellis Esq: from whom he brought a letter (he supposes of recommendation) which was delivered to the Surr General” Marginal note: “The families consist of – 4- men; 4 – women (their wives); & 12 children [Total] 20” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Apr 1799. Ordered recommended for 200 acres under the New Regulations. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 149]


Shell, Henry

Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Shell dated at York (Toronto) on 11 Jun 1798

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner and three Brothers, Mark – Frederick – & Christian Shell are lately arrived in this Province with their respective Families, being all married – and have for the present Leased a piece of ground of their great uncle Joseph Petry – in Louth – where they have planted corn, and now are; that your Petitioner, (who formerly lived near two years with Genl Murray – at Quebec, and six years, with Capt Geo. Lawe at Quebec & Bay of Chaleur) – is come forward in his own behalf & that of his Brothers and respectfully prays your Honor for an appropriation of 200 acres each, to be confirmed to them under the new regulations when it shall so seem meet to your Honor – and as in duty bound your Petitioner shall ever pray—[Signed] Henry Shell” Added note: “The Petitioner is known to Robt Nellis Esq: from whom he brought a letter (he supposes of recommendation) which was delivered to the Surr General” Marginal note: “The families consist of – 4- men; 4 – women (their wives); & 12 children [Total] 20” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Apr 1799. Ordered recommended for 200 acres under the New Regulations. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 149]


Shell, Mark

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Henry Shell dated at York (Toronto) on 11 Jun 1798

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner and three Brothers, Mark – Frederick – & Christian Shell are lately arrived in this Province with their respective Families, being all married – and have for the present Leased a piece of ground of their great uncle Joseph Petry – in Louth – where they have planted corn, and now are; that your Petitioner, (who formerly lived near two years with Genl Murray – at Quebec, and six years, with Capt Geo. Lawe at Quebec & Bay of Chaleur) – is come forward in his own behalf & that of his Brothers and respectfully prays your Honor for an appropriation of 200 acres each, to be confirmed to them under the new regulations when it shall so seem meet to your Honor – and as in duty bound your Petitioner shall ever pray—[Signed] Henry Shell” Added note: “The Petitioner is known to Robt Nellis Esq: from whom he brought a letter (he supposes of recommendation) which was delivered to the Surr General” Marginal note: “The families consist of – 4- men; 4 – women (their wives); & 12 children [Total] 20” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Apr 1799. Ordered recommended for 200 acres under the New Regulations. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 149]


Sheppard, Samuel

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Samuel Sheppard

“humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner desirous of being an Inhabitant of the Town of Newark, Prays your Excellency will grant him Lot No one hundred and Fifty four, that he may improve the same and yr Petitioner, as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed Saml Sheppard” Ordered granted on 18 Jun. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 52]


Sherk, John

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Shark (sic) dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 10 Jul 1797

“Humbly sheweth that your Petitioner has been settled in this Province upwards of two years, That he has never received any land; therefore humbly prays that your Honor would be pleased to grant him such a portion of land as to your Honor may appear meet & as in duty bound he will ever pray [Signed] Johannes Shark Newark 10th July 1797” Received in the Executive Council Office on 10 Jul 1797. Administered affirmation of allegiance the same day. Aug 29. Read in the Executive Council and recommended for 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 148]

Sherk, John

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Shark [sic] Junior of Willoughby dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 30 Aug 1797

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is the Son of John Shark who came into the Province about two years ago with his family consisting of a wife and Eight children, and has received 200 acres for settlement—That your Petitioner will be of age in the course of the ensuing month of September and being desirous of settling on Lands of his own prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 200 acres, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Johannes [Sherk]” Received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Aug 1797 and read in Council on 30 Aug 1797. Ordered the Petitioner appears young, is not married, and has not brought a recommendation from his father to say he wished him to set up for himself. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 70]


Sherk, Michael

A signer to the Upper Canada Land Petition of the inhabitants around Sugar Loaf (Humberstone Township) dated at Newark on 30 Mar 1793

“The Petition of the Inhabitants settled round the Point called Sugar Loaf above Fort Erie Humbly Sheweth—That near one hundred Families are now Settled in that Quarter on Lands not yet Surveyed Subject from this Circumstance the many inconveniencies attending this Situation, particularly to disputes about Limits & encroachments the one on the other—Therefor most humbly Supplicating your Excellency will have the Goodness to order a Survey to be made of their Lands, with such dispatch as you in your wisdom may think fitt—And your petitioners as in duty Bound Will ever pray &c—[Signed] Abrm Laing, Joel W Morris, Wilson Doan, Elija Doan, Nathan Havens, Joseph Havens, Azalia Schooley, Johoiadah Schooley, John Harret, John Cutter, Peter Cairn, Amos Morris, James Wilson, Samuel Wilson, John Braley, William Cook, Asa Schooley, Christopher Richards, James Edsall, Daniel Forsyth, Michael Shark, James Edsel, Christian Troyer, Jason Millard, Dan Millard, Heart Smith, Thomas Millard, Titios Doan, Enos Doan.” Read in Council on 10 Jul 1793. Ordered that directions be given to the Surveyor General to carry it into execution as soon as possible. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 1c]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Sherrick [signed Mickael Sherek] dated on 24 Nov 1796

“Humbly shews, That he was a loyalist and resident in this province, in, and ever since the year 1789 and has never availed himself of his Majesty’s donation in lands—that that he is now desirous of receiving the same in such quantity or quantities for himself and family, (consisting of a wife, five sons and three daughters), as your honor may in your wisdom deem him and them deserving, and, as in duty, shall ever pray, [Signed] Mickael Sherek” Received at the Executive Council Office on 21 Nov 1796 and read in Council on 7 Apr 1797. Ordered the Committee see no ground for recommending this petition. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 184]

Certificate dated on 10 Sep 1789 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Sherrick

“To all people whome it may concern this is to Certify that the Bearer hereof Michal Sherk Did not take up arms against the English armies During the Late Revolution Nor did anything or act or acting part against the Brittish armies but behaved himself quietly and Soberly During the war and never took the Oath of alegance to the American party as he is Now going to the British plantations at Niagara certified by us whose names are hereto Subscribed this tenth Day of September 1789 [Signed] Anthony Ellmaker, Jacob Sincinig, Abraham Cyesair, [Soeneng Erbnbav], [Ssiling Berm, [mirfull Ganlnig], Irving Round, John Weaver, Abraham Lane, John Hoover” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 184b]

Notation of the Land Board dated on 30 Mar 1793 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of the inhabitants of Sugar Loaf

“We do Certify that the Persons described in the above Petition are in general Sober & Industrious Settlers & as such deserving any Favors his Excellency the Governor may think proper to confir respecting the prayer of the Petition. [Signed] R. Hamilton, J Butler, John Burch” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 1b]

A signer to the Upper Canada Land Petition of the inhabitants in the area of Point Abino, Bertie Twp. dated at Point Abino on 14 Jan 1797

“The Petition of the underwritten Inhabitants of the place commonly called point Abino in the Township of Bertie—Most humbly Sheweth That Timothy Skinner and one Crane having petitioned your Honor for Leave to build a Mill on Lot No 32 in the Front or water Concession of the said Township, your Petitioners humbly pray leave to inform your Honor, that if such Mill be built it will be ruinous to all the neighbouring Settlers, as it will be the means of laying under water upwards of three Thousand Acres of their Lands Wherefore they pray your Honor against permission to build that said Mill and as in duty bound they will pray &c. [Signed] James Edsal, David Baxter, Robert Stewart, Michael Shirk, Ob. Dennis, Edwd Stooks, and Peter Cruikshanks” Received at the Executive Council Office on 26 Jan 1797. Ordered referred to the order on Crane’s petition. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 2, Petition Number 37]


Shippey, Lydia (Lampman)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Lydia Lampman dated on 10 Jul 1816 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“The Petition of Lydia Lampman of the Township of Grimsby Humbly Sheweth, That Your Petitioner is the daughter of Zebadee Shippey of the London District an Enrolled U. E. Loyalist; is married to Frederick Lampman – Grimsby – 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 [blank] of [blank] 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.” Lydia Lampman made her mark. Read in the Executive Council on 19 Feb 1831. Ordered recommended. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 16, Petition Number 49]

Certificate of Robert Kerr J. P. dated on 10 Jul 1816 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Lydia Lampman

“District of Niagara. To Wit:} Lydia Lampman 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. Sworn in General Quarter Sessions of the Peace at Niagara this 10th Day of July 1816. [Signed] Robert Kerr J P, Chairman}” Lydia Lampman made her mark. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 16, Petition Number 49]

Certificate of Robert Kerr J. P. appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Lydia Lampman

“District of Niagara.} I do Certify that Lydia Lampman 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] Robert Kerr J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 16, Petition Number 49]

Certificate of Robert Kerr, J. P. and Ralfe Clench dated on 10 Jul 1816 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Lydia Lampman

“District of Niagara.} We, Robert Kerr Esquire, Chairman, and Ralfe Clench, Clerk of the Peace, do hereby Certify that Lydia Lampman Personally appeared at the General Quarter Sessions of the Peace, this Day, was recognized by the Magistrates to be the daughter of Zebedee Shippey who retained his Loyalty during the late war, without aiding or assisting the Enemy; that she is married to Frederick Lampman who also did his duty in defence of the Province, and was Loyal, during the late war. Dated at the Court House, at Niagara in the District of Niagara this tenth day of July 1816. — [Signed] Robert Kerr, Chairman [Signed] Ralfe Clench Clerk of the Peace.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 16, Petition Number 49a]

Certificate of John Lampman dated on 17 Feb 1831 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Lydia Lampman

“I hereby Certify that my mother Lydia Lampman was alive and well on Saturday last the 12th Instant York 17 Feby 1831 [Signed] John Lampman” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 16, Petition Number 49b]


Shippy, Zebulon

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Willson, John Person, Lewis Dedrick, Peter Bass, Anthony Rummerfield, John Finch, Roger Coonut, Anthony Westbrook, Zebulon Shippy, Arthur Newman, Neisor Ellis, and John Carley and Associates (Loyalists) received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Jul 1793

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioners are desirous of Settling between Long Point and Turkey Point on the west side of Lake Erie. That your Excellency may be pleased to allot them the lands on the same terms as Granted to others—And your Petitioners in duty bound will ever Pray—[Signed] Benjamin Willson in behalf of himself and associates—NB Anthony Westbrook has taken up his Lands at the same Place” Robert Kerr J. P. underlined the names of Willson, Dedrick, Rummerfield, Finch, Coonut, Westbrook, Shippy, and Newman and notated: “ I can answer for the above men that are marked for good Loyalists & have suffered for their attachment to the King. [Signed] Robert Kerr” Received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Jul 1793 and read in Council on 13 Jul. Ordered granted the 8 marked by R. Kerr of 200 acres each. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 1, Petition Number 23]


Shoff, Dennis

Upper Canada Land Petition of Dennis Shoff dated in Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake), Niagara Township, Lincoln County on 19 April 1797

“Respectfully Shews That Your Petitioner has been in the Province since April 1796 – that he has taken the Oaths &c. Petitioner prays Your Honor will please to grant him a farm Lot on Pattersons Creek, & your Petitioner will ever Pray — [Signed] Dennis Shoff” Notation of Peter Russell, Administrator of the Executive Council: “Dennis Shoff. Let the Bearer have an assignment of 200 acres to be confirmed the first Council [Signed] Peter Russell” Received in the Executive Council Office on 19 Apr 1797 and noted “to be confirmed the first Council for 200 acres — by order of His Honor” Read in Council on 16 May and recommended for confirmation. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 191]


Shop, Abraham

Upper Canada Land Petition of Abraham Shop now of Stamford (Menonist) dated at York (Toronto) on 3 Jul 1800

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner came into the Province in June 1799 – and leased a piece of Land in Saltfleet – That he lately returned to Pensylvania for his Family consisting of a wife & two children, and about ten days ago arrived with them in Stamford, where they are at the house of Christian Hercha his relation—That your petitioner is desirous to settle upon Lands of the Crown – & having two Horses, a Cow, with other necessaries – & also Expected to reap about 100 Bushels of wheat from his last years labour in Saltfleet – your Petitioner humbly prays your Excellency to grant him a Lot upon Yonge Street or Dundas Street for immediate Settlement, and your petitioner as in duty bound shall ever pray—[Signed] Abraham Shop” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Jul 1800. Ordered proofs wanting. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 5, Petition Number 122]


Shoup, Christian

The Upper Canada Land Petition of John Beyers (Menonist) [signed Byers] dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 12 Jul 1797

“Humbly Shews- That your Petitioner came into the Province about a month since from Pensylvania—But that his mother, Anna Beyers, with her two sons in Law & Daughters arrived in the Province Eighteen months ago—and Who, with one of her sons in Law (Chrisn Shoup) have received Lands for Settlement—That your Petitioner desirous of becoming a bona fide settler in the Province, prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 200 acres of Land and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Signed] John Byers. Received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Jul 1797 and read in Council on 22 Dec. Ordered to lie over for the new regulations. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle “Misc.” Petition Number 17]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Christian Shoup (Menonist) dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 2 May 1797

“Humbly shews—That your Petitioner came into the Province in the year 1795 – with his family and purchased a farm in Willoughby—That being desirous to obtain Lands in his own right, being capable of cultivating and improve the same – prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 200 acres as a Settler (having never before Applied for Land) and Your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Christian [Shoup]” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797. Administered affirmation of allegiance the same day. Read in Council on 2 May. Ordered 200 acres if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 108]


Shoup, John

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Shaupe Shoup, Menonist dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 2 May 1797

“Humbly shews – That your Petitioner is a Brother of Christian Shoup who has been 2 years in this Province, with his family – That your Petitioner is lately arrived with another Brother Martin Shaupe [sic], in order to look out lands for Settlement, And to bring in their father in the Spring – That your Petitioner being desirous to make a bona fide improvement to build a House, & sow Some grain, – prays your Honor would be pleased to allow him a location of 200 acres, to be confirmed in the space of 15 months – should he then make his residence thereon which he firmly purposes to do – and your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Johannes Shoup” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797. Administered affirmation of allegiance the same day. Read in Council the same day. Ordered 200 acres to be appropriated and confirmed by deed in fifteen months from the present day. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 138]


Shoup, Martin

Upper Canada Land Petition of Martin Shoup, Menonist dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake on 2 May 1797

“Humbly Shews – That your Petitioner arrived in this Province a few days ago, (from Pensylvania) – in order to settle therein – and to bring in his father and family—that being desirous to make some improvement that is to erect a House, to clear Some Land, & sow some grain therein – prays your Honor would be pleased to allow him to locate 200 acres of Land, to be confirmed to him in making the before mentioned improvement and upon his return into the Province, within the space of 15 months from this Date – and your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Martin Shoup” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797. Administered affirmation of allegiance the same day. Read in Council the same day. Ordered an appropriation for 200 acres to the Petitioner to be confirmed by Deed in twelve months from the first of May. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 119]


Showers, Ann (Smith)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Ann Smith of Flamborough dated at Niagara on 1 Sep 1797

“Humbly shews – That your Petitioner is the wife of Isaac Smith – and Daughter of the late Michael Showers – a Loyalist U. E. as pr the return of the magistrates – & having never received any Land Humbly prays your Honor would be pleased to grant her 200 acres and as in Duty bound she will ever pray” Ann Smith made her mark. “[Signed] P Ball Witness” Received at the Executive Council Office on 9 Sep 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as UE. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 86]

Certificate of Peter Ball, J. P. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 1 Sep 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Ann Smith

“I do Certify that Ann the Wife of Isaac Smith is the Daughter of Michal Showers a Loyalist UE [Signed] P. Ball J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 86a]


Showers, Hannah

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Aikman of the Township of Barton dated at Niagara on 14 Oct 1796

“Humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner is married to Hannah, the Daughter of Michael Showers, a Loyalist U. E. & who served in Butlers Rangers—who having never received any Land, prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 200 acres in behalf of his wife and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] John Aikman” Received at the Executive Council Office on 15 Oct and read on 17 Mar 1797. Ordered the petitioner’s wife recommended for 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 2, Petition Number 27]

Certificate of Peter Ball, J. P. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) in Oct 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Aikman

“I do hereby Certify that John Aikman is Married the Daughter of a Loyalist U. E. and is Settled in this District [Signed] P. Ball JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 2, Petition Number 27]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Hanah [sic] Showers dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 23 Jan 1797

“The Petition of Hanah Showers, widow of the late Michael Showers late of Butlers Rangers—Humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner’s Husband died last Spring, Having received two Hundred acres of Land in the Township of Newark, and 400 acres in the Township of Ancaster, the same having been promised him by His Excely the Lt Governor as the first Settler—That Your Petitioner’s sd Husband Michael Showers came into the Province in the year 1778 – with a family then consisting of myself & Seven Children – had in the year 1787 – 3 other children making in the whole 10 – who are living in this Province; your petitioner therefore prays your Honor would be pleased to grant her such Family Lands as may be yet coming to them & your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray – ” Hannah Showers made her mark. “witness [Signed] P. Ball” Received at the Executive Council Office on 26 Jan 1797 and read in Council on 7 Feb 1797. Ordered Michael Showers as Soldier 300, 10 children and a wife family 550 total 850. Ordered that the quantity of land wanting to make up the above eight hundred and fifty acres as military and family lands be granted to the petitioner and referred to the Surveyor General for examination. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 129]

Certificate of Peter Ball, J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Hanah [sic] Showers

“I do hereby Certify that Michal Showers Served in Butlers Rangers, that he came to Niagara in the year 1778 with a Wife and Seven Children who are all Settled in the Home District and that before the year 1789 he had ten Children [Signed] P. Ball JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 129a]


Showers, Michael Sr.

On a 1792 map of the Front Concession of Niagara Township included in the Upper Canada Land petition of Samuel Street, Michl Showers was named on Lots 13 and 14. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 162]

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Michael Showers Senior and Michael Showers Junior Received at the Executive Council Office on 6 Jul 1793

“Humbly Sheweth That your Memorialists have been in this Place since the year 1778 and in the service therefore your Memorialists Pray that your Excellency will be pleased to Grant us as part of the lands we are entitled Lotts No 11 & 12 to Michael Showers Senr and Lotts No 49 & 50 to Michael Showers Junr being in the now Survey at the head of Burlington Bay, should there appear no other Claimants your Petitioners humbly Pray that your Excellency will be pleased to do in the business what to your Excellency appears best and Your Memorialists will as in duty Bound Ever Pray. [Signed] Michael Showers Senr, Michael Showers Junrr” Received at the Executive Council Office on 6 Jul 1793 and read in Council on 10 Jul 1793. Ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 5]


Showers, Michael Jr.

Mentioned in the report of Acting Surveyor General David W. Smith dated at Niagara on 26 Dec 1793

“May it please Your Excellency! In obedience to your Excellencys Command to report on the Petition of Benjn Fairchild Junr in respect of the Interference, which a Lot he prayed for, might have upon the necessary Reserve of the Crown; I did on the 29th September last report to your Excellency, that as you had been pleased to remove the Reserves from the Road leading to the Thames; I saw no objection, in respect of them, to the granting of the Petition, altho the description given of it by Benjamin Fairchild was rather inexplicit—On the 19th Inst I received the Return of Grants made by the Honble the Executive Council, wherein I find, that Lot No 50 in Ancaster was granted to Michael Showers Junr on the 10th July last, which, consequently precludes the necessity of further Report (beyond the foregoing Circumstances) from this office, respecting that Lot—All which is submitted to your Excellencys Wisdom—[Signed] D W Smith Actg Sur Genl” Read in Council on 24 May 1794. No order of Council recorded on the petition. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 178]


Shuman, George

Upper Canada Land Petition of George Shuman dated at Niagara on 26 Jul 1796

“Respectfully shews – That your Petitioner served his majesty as p the annexed Certificate & that he had a wife & three children before the year 1788—that he has received 200 acres of Land – & prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him the remaining 100 acres – and likewise 200 acres for his Family—And you petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray” [Unsigned] Added note of Thomas Ridout N. P.: “I do hereby certify that Parshall Terry Esqr applied to me for the above petition in behalf of Geo. Shuman who lives in Bertie – [Signed] T Ridout N. P.” Received at the Executive Council Office on 8 Oct. Ordered petitioner must produce his discharge and a certificate of his being entitled to family lands. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 101]

Upper Canada Land Petition of George Shuman dated at Niagara on 11 Jan 1797

“Respectfully Sheweth—That your petitioner Served His Majesty as p: the annexed Certificates, and that he has a Wife and Eight Children, five of which were born before the year 1789 – That your petitioner has received only two hundred acres of Lands, prays your Honor would be pleased for to grant him the remaining hundred acres and likewise such a proportion of Lands as your Honor may think proper – and your petitioner will as in duty bound ever pray—[Signed] Geo Shuman” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Jan 1797 and read in Council on 26 Feb 1797. Ordered petitioner cannot have any Military Lands as he does not produce his discharge. Recommended for three hundred acres as family lands. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 161]

Certificate of Parshall Terry, J. P. dated on 25 Oct 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of George Shuman

“I Certify that George Shewman hath a wife and Eight Children in this province Five of which Ware born before the year 1789 given Under My hand this 25th of October 1796 [Signed] Parshall Terry JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 161b]

Certificate of Robert Hamilton, J. P. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 11 Jan 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of George Shuman

“The above mentioned George Shewman has declared upon Oath before me that the above Certificate is true & from my knowledge of Shewman I varly believe what he has sett forth to be true—[Signed R. Hamilton JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 161b]

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.

George Shuman – UE 300 acres in Burford Township [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 4, Petition Number 117e]


Sills, Jonathan

Upper Canada Land Petition of Jonathan Sills dated at York (Toronto) on 21 Nov 1799

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner wishing to become an actual Settler at Fort Erie, for The purpose of Carrying on Business, prays your Honor in Council will be pleased to Grant him a Lot & Water Lot at that place and your Petitioner as in duty bound Shall ever pray—[Signed] Jos: Forsyth for J Sills” Received at the Executive Council Office on 21 Nov 1799. Ordered referred to the Surveyor General for information. Received the Surveyor General’s report on 23 Nov 1799. No order issued. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 5, Petition Number 111a]

Report of the Surveyor General’s Office dated on 23 Nov 1799 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jonathan Sills

“In obedience to your Excellencys order of reference to report on the Petition of Jonathan Sills, for a Lot and water Lot at Fort Erie – we humbly beg leave to state, that the spot which the Petitioner prays for, appears to constitute part of the Crown Reserve at that place – all which is respectfully Submitted to your Excellencys wisdom, for the Ag Sr Genl [Signed] Chewett & Ridout” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 5, Petition Number 111]


Silverthorne, Johanna

Upper Canada Land Petition of Johanna Silverthorne read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul 1796

“The Petition of Johanna Silverthorne widow of Thomas Silverthorne Senr—late of the Township of Stamford—respectfully shews – That your Petitioner came into the Province in the year 1787 – with her Husband & one son—that she has received 200 acres in her Husbands right but who never received any Land for his wife or Child tho’ the lot has been located & the name of Thomas Silverthorne inserted thereon in the Township of Stamford. That your petitioner is settled on the lands of the Crown in this Province, & has cultivated and improved the same. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant her in addition 100 acres of land & that the Surveyor General be authorized to assign the same & to insert the name of your Petitioner in lieu thereof—And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul. Ordered recommended for 100 acres to the heirs. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 4]

Certificate of David Secord, J. P. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 16 Dec 1796

“I do Cartify That Jonaah [sic] Silverthorn Came into [this] Province in the year 1787 Brought with her one Child and at this Present is a poor Widow having Lost her Husband and Since She came into This Province To Whom this May Consern [Signed] David Secord J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 4b]


Silverthorn, John

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Silverthorne dated at Niagara on 11 Jun 1796 (using a pre-printed form with fill-ins)

“The Petition of John Silverthorne of the Township of Stamford—Respectfully shews—That your Petitioner came into the Province in the year 1787 with a wife and two children & has only received 200 acres for himself & Family – That your petitioner is settled on the lands of the Crown in this Province, & has cultivated and improved 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 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. The Petitioner has now 5 Children” [Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul [1796]. Ordered wants a certificate for family lands. Read again in the Executive Council on 12 May 1797. Certificate produced. Ordered recommended for 150 acres family lands. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 136]

Certificate of David Secord, J. P. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 16 Dec 1796

“I do Cartify That The Bearer Mr John Silverthorn came into this Province In the year 1787 and Brought with Him a Wife and two childg To Whom This May Consern [Signed] D Secord J P” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 136b]

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]


Silverthorne, Phoebe (Green)

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Phoebe Silverthorne of the Township of Townsend in the County of Norfolk in the District of London daughter of Reuben Green a U E Loyalist received at the Executive Council Office on 23 Dec 1815

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is the daughter of Reuben Green of the Township of Townsend aforesaid a U. E. Loyalist, that she is married to Jonathan Silverthorne of the same Place, and that she has never received any land or order for land from the Crown. – Your Petitioner therefore prays that your Excellency will be pleased to grant her two Hundred Acres of the waste land of the Crown and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” Phoebe Silverthorne made her mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 23 Dec 1815. Noted it does not appear that the petitioner has had any land by order in Council. On the U. E. List Reuben Green of Townsend. D. U. E. Read in Council on 23 Dec 1815. Granted 200 acres of land as DUE Loyalist. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 10, Petition Number 148]

Certificate of George C. Salmon, J. P. dated on 18 Dec 1815 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Phoebe Silverthorne

“Personally appeared before me George C. Salmon Esquire, one of his Majesty’s Justices of the peace in and for the District of London Phoebe Silverthorne of the Township of Townsend who being duly Sworn deposeth and saith, that she is the person she describes herself to be in the within Petition that she is married to Jonathan Silverthorne, and that she has never received any land or order for land from the Crown Sworn before me at Woodhouse this 18th day of December 1815 [Signed] George C. Salmon” Phoebe Silverthorne made her mark. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 10, Petition Number 148a]

Certificate of George C. Salmon dated on 18 Dec 1815 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Phoebe Silverthorne

“I do hereby certify that Phoebe Silverthorne Signed the within Petition in my presence, that She is the Person She therein describes herself to be, and has never received any land or order for land from the Crown to the best of my knowledge and belief – Also that she is married to Jonathan Silverthorne. — Witness my hand this Eighteenth day of December 1815 – [Signed] Reuben Green. Sworn before me at Woodhouse this 18th day of December 1815 [Signed] George C. Salmon J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 10, Petition Number 148a]


Silverthorne, Thomas

Certificate of Nathaniel Pettit dated 11 Oct 1797 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Beam

“I Do hereby Certify that Jacob Beam Christous Boughner Thos Silverthorne Lenard Mizener had their Names Inrold or Entered under the authority of a [Claim] Commission from General [Directed] to Joseph Barton Nathl Pettit and Robert Allefour for the purpose of Setting up his magestys Standard in the County of Sussex [about] the year 1777.” [Signed] Nathl Pettit. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 1, Petition Number 92l]

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jonathan Hampton dated at York (Toronto) on 18 May 1801

“Humbly sheweth – That your petitioner is a relation of the Lundys & Silverthornes in Stamford, & came into the province near twelve months ago with his family (now in Stamford) consisting of a wife and two Children. That desirous to settle on Yonge Street or in Gwillimbury – your Petitioner & his Brother Thomas have now with them in this Town, a Yoke of oxen, with some farming utensils & a Sett of Blacksmith Tools – Your Petitioner has also two Cows – besides other property. Your petitioner therefore humbly prays your Excellency would be pleased to grant him a Lot on Dundas Street, or Guillimbury for immediate settlement – and as in Duty bound he shall ever pray [Signed] Jonathan Hampton” Added marginal note: “The Petitioner has taken the oath of allegiance before [Signed] Thos Dickson Esqr J. P.” Received at the Executive Council Office on 18 May 1800 and read in Council on 19 May. Ordered recommended for 200 acres on Yonge Street or in Gwillimbury or in Whitchurch not interfering witn Rogers’ appropriations. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 5, Petition Number 62]


Simmerman, Peter see Zimmerman, Peter


Simmonds, Asa

Upper Canada Land Petition of Asa Simmonds [signed Simmons] dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 4 Feb 1797

“Most humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner has lately come into this province to become a settler therein, is married to the Daughter of John Macdonald a staunch loyalist and has a family of young children—That a number of Families connected with your Petitioner by the ties of Kindred or other mutual connections, are preparing to emigrate into this Province, in the Spring and will add to the Population & industry thereof. Wherefore your Petitioner Prays that your Honor may order him such allowance of Land as in your Honors Wisdom may seem meet – and as in duty bound he will ever pray &c—[Signed] Asa Simmons” Received at the Executive Council Office on 4 Feb 1797 and read in Council on 4 Feb 1797. Ordered 200 acres on the petitioner bringing his family into the Province. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 150]

Certificate of John McDonall appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Asa Simmonds

“By Virtue of His Excellency, J G Simcoes written Instructions to me given – I do hereby recommend the above Asa Simmonds as a desirable Settler and moral man and in consideration of himself – wife and family – presumes that he will be considered as deserving of four Hundred acres of Land—[Signed] John McDonall” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 150]


Simons, Polly

Upper Canada Land Petition of Polly Simons of Newark received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Jan 1797

“Humbly shews that she is daughter of Titus Simons, Quarter-Master in his Majesty’s Service in the Late American war and that her said father’s duty calling him from personal attention to his family, suffered a total loss of his interest, in consequence of his attachment to his Sovereign, and unity of the Empire, while in the provinces; and for all which obstinately refuses to this time, any gratuity further than what he derives from a clear and approving conscience of having done his duty only, without regard to the restoration of that property to his family, which to’ in a righteous cause, they were unfortunately deprived of; and which to them is now become an indispensable duty from a variety of causes and circumstances, she therefore, relying on the merits of the services of a parent, whose loss and not his services she even now laments, Your generosity, her, she believes, unexceptionable behaviour prays your honor to grant her such quantity of land as in your wisdom may be fitting one of her description, unfortunate as she is from virtuous misfortunes, and as in duty bound shall ever pray. [Signed] Polly Simons” Received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Jan 1797 and read on 17 Mar 1797. Ordered the petitioner must produce a certificate of her being the daughter of a Loyalist. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 135]


Simons, Titus

Upper Canada Land Petition of Titus Simons of the Township of Newark dated at Niagara on 14 Jun 1796

“Humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner settled in the Province of Quebec in the year 1777 – with his Family that he has resided in the Province of Upper Canada since the year 1788 – and has a wife & nine Children Six of whom were born before the year 1788—That your Petitioner having never received any Certificate or grant of Lands for himself or family – & having served as p the annexed notarial Copies of his Certificates prays your Excellency would be pleased to grant him & Family such Lands – as to your Excellency shall seem meet – and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Titus Simons” Received at the Executive Council Office on 29 Jun. Ordered recommended for 500 acres for himself and 350 acres for family lands if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 107]

Copy of a certificate prepared by Thomas Ridout, N. P. dated 14 Jun 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Titus Simons

“We whose names are hereunder written do hereby certify that Titus Simons was appointed and mustered in the year 1777 in the British Camp at Stillwater, as Quartermaster in the Corps of Queens Loyal Rangers, commanded by Lieut Colo John Peters, and continued to do the duty and was paid as such until the Corps was incorporated with other Corps of Loyal Partisans under the Command of Major Edward Jessup in 1781. — (signed) Justus Sherwood Capt, Jerh French Lt Ks R. Rt New York, James Parrot Lieut Loyal Rangers, John Dulmage Lieut L. R., David McFall, Capt” “a true Copy – taken the 14th Day of June 1796 T Ridout Not. Pub” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 107a]

Copy of a certificate prepared by Thomas Ridout, N. P. at Niagara on 12 Jun 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Titus Simons

“Mr Titus Simons arrived at the King’s army in the year 1777 & joined a Corps then raising by Lieut Colo John Peters and afterwards acted as Quartermaster to several parties of Loyalists under the Command of John Raion of the 53 Regt till sometime in the year 1781 – and had the Character of being a uniform Loyalist to the End of the war—(signed) Edward Jessup” “a true Copy – Thos Ridout No. Pub.” “The original of the above 2 Copies were delivered to Titus Simons Junr 11 July 1811” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 107a]


Simons, Titus Jr.

Upper Canada Land Petition of Titus Simons Junior dated at York (Toronto) on 26 Jun 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“The Petition of Titus Simons Junr Respectfully shews, That your petitioner is desirous to settle on the lands of the Crown in this Province, being in a condition to cultivate and improve the same. That he is ready to take the usual oaths, and to subscribe the declaration, that he professes the Christian Religion, and obedience to the laws, and has lived inoffensively in the country which he has left. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him a Portion of land upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792, as to your Excellency in your wisdom may think meet. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray. [Signed] Titus G Simons.” Read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended for 300 acres of land if it appears he has had none before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 112]