Upper Canada Land Petition of John Snider dated at Niagara on 28 Sep 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“The Petition of John Snider—late of Butlers Rangers—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 Honor, would be pleased to grant him as a reduced Soldier 300 acres of land. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Added note of Thomas Ridout, N. P.: “I do hereby certify that John Snider personally applied to me for the above Petition. Petitioner also prays for a Lot in the Town of Newark.” Received at the Executive Council Office on 28 Sep 1796 and read in Council on 9 Oct. Ordered prayer granted on producing certificates of his family being come in with him if not ordered before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 92]
Certificate of Peter Ball, J. P. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 27 Sep 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Snider
“I do hereby Certify that John Snider served in Butlers Rangers in the late war as a Private Soldier [Signed] P Ball J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 92b]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Snyther received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Oct 1796
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner served as a Corporal in Butlers Rangers dureing the late American War, and has not as yet located any lands. Your Petitioner therefore Prays that the usual quantity granted to Non Commissioned officers in his line, may be extended to him out of the waste lands of the Crown. And your Petitioner will as in duty Bound Ever Pray [Signed] Jacob Snyther” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Oct 1796 and read in Council on 17 Mar 1797. Ordered recommended for 400 acres as Military Lands, if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 186]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Pickard (signed Pickart) dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake on 20 Jul 1795
“Most humbly sheweth that your petitioner served His Majesty during the late American War and at the peace sat down near this town on what your petitioner conceived to be a two Hundred acre lot on the four Mile Creek there being only one other Settler on the Creek at the time of such Settlement—That part of the lands so settled upon by your petitioner have since proved to be within the reserved lands of the Crown by which means your Petitioner has only an all front, wanting some acres of an Hundred; —That part of the lands formerly considered as your petitioners was claimed by one John Snow (a person who never dreamed of forming any pretensions, having only sat down on sufferance from your petitioner many years after the land was in the occupation of your petitioner) untill the said John Snow was prompted & guided by one Daniel Servos thro’ the medium of Snow wished to obtain an indirect appropriation of the lands to himself which Scheme so far succeeded that the said Snow obtained grounds of Hopes from your Excellency of having a grant of such lands being Sixty acres—That said Snow is since Dead intestate and without Heirs in this province; —Wherefore your Excellency would consider his case & permit this coming before Your Excellency by himself or attorney with proper Evidence to Substantiate his pretentions to the lands so claimed by Snow—or give such other order thereon as may be efficient of Equity—and in the mean time direct that no appropriations be made of the lands in Contest. Your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray &c—[Signed] Benjamin Pickart” Received at the Executive Council Office on 9 Jul 1795. No order of Council recorded. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “P” Bundle 1, Petition Number 24]
Mentioned in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Reverend Robert Addison received at the Executive Council Office on 17 Aug 1795
“humbly sheweth; That whereas the late John Snow who had a Grant from Council of a small piece of Land near the Four Mile Creek left Debts to the amount of about £50, and His principal Creditor Mr D. Servos refused to administer in order to discharge such Debts; And whereas the said John Snow was an old Soldier, and had been long an Inhabitant about the Four Mile Creek, & of course entitle to his Majesty’s Bounty—Your Memorialist therefore humbly requests that he may have the Grant of the small parcel of Land transfer’d to him, and if there be any unclaimed Land (or rather ungranted) laying between Cockle’s Lott & Mr D. Servos’s, if he may be indulged with a Lott of 200 acres (or any less Number there may be of such ungranted Lands); He will administer to the Estate of the sd late John Snow & discharge his Lones & Debts, and as in duty bound will ever pray & c [Signed] R. Addison” Received at the Executive Council Office on 17 Aug 1795. Read in the Executive Council on 17 Aug. Ordered the Committee does not conceive that the prayer of this petition comes within their province. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 1, Petition Number 20]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Reverend Robert Addison Missionary to Niagara dated on 21 Jun 1796
“humbly sheweth, That your Petitioner formerly laid before your Excellency a petition requesting a Grant of any vacant Lands that might be between the Lands occupied by Danl Servos and the Lands granted to one Cockle, lying westward of the Four Mile Creek in the Township of Newark; and also that he might be admitted an administering to the Effects of one John Snow to have a small parcel of Land lying eastward of the said creek, within the Reserve, being about 35 acres, which were granted to the said Snow who since died intestate, without leaving any Heir in the province. —That your Petitioner has a Grant of only 45 acres, and therefore humbly requests, that with the above, which being near his present Dwelling place, are valuable & desirable to him, he may have an additional Grant of Lands in what Quantity & Situation your Excellency shall kindly think fit to appoint; —and as in Duty bound your petitioner will ever pray &c. [Signed] Robt Addison” Received at the Executive Council Office on 24 Jun. Ordered recommended to make up the Land Mr Addison has recd 1200 acres—there being vacant land where prayed for—& it being apprehended Snow has heirs nothing can be said to the prayer of this petition. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 2, Petition Number 9]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of the Reverend Robert Addison dated at York on 2 Jun 1797
“humbly sheweth, That your Petitioner prefered a Petition to His Excellency Governor Simcoe praying for the Grant of a small parcel of Land (about thirty five Acres) near the Four Mile Creek in the Township of Newark, formerly granted to John Snow deceased. That your Petitioner had a promise of the said Land if no Claimant appeared as Heir to the said John Snow; That your Petitioner understands no such Claimant has appeared, & as the said Land lays near a Small Tract of nine Acres which he holds, and would be very advantageous, He humbly prays that the same may be granted to him, and as in Duty bound he will ever pray &c. [Signed] Robert Addison” Received at the Executive Council Office on 6 Jun 1797 and read in Council on 28 Aug 1797. Ordered there being other Claims which appear prior in right and time to that the Petitioner, the prayer of this petitioner cannot be granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 2, Petition Number 4]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Reverend Robert Addison, Minister of Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) dated at York (Toronto) on 27 Jun 1799
“humbly sheweth, That Lot No 192 in the Township of Newark adjoining to Lands occupied by your Petitioner is still in the Hands of the Crown, the exact Quantity being yet unascertained; And that a small parcel of Land granted by the Honorable Council to John Snow deceased, was promised some time ago to your Petitioner if no Heir at Law appeared. Your Petitioner therefore humbly requested that the aforesaid Lands may be granted him on his giving a Bond to the Surveyor General, to the amount of the value of the said small parcel of Land, binding him to relinquish his Claim, should any Heir of the said John Snow appear in the Course of Seven Years—And Your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Robt Addison” Received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Jun 1799 and read in Council on 12 Jun 1800. Ordered Referred to the Surveyor General to report. Ordered the prayer of this petition not to be granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 5, Petition Number 28]
Report of Deputy Surveyors General Chewett and Ridout dated at the Surveyor General’s Office on 25 Jun 1800 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Reverend Robert Addison
“May it please your Excellency—In obedience to your Excellencys order of reference to report on the Petition of the Revd Robert Addison who prays for a small parcel of Land formerly granted to John Snow, now deceased—and for Lot No 192 in the Township of Newark—It is humbly represented to your Excellency that on the 13th of June 1794, a Report was made from this Office to His Excellency Lieut Governor Simcoe in Council of certain tracts of Land lying between the Town of Newark, and the four mile Creek – amongst which was a piece of Land containing about thirty seven acres, Set apart for John Snow – to whom, by an order of Council of the 14 June 1794, the same appears to have been allowed—Soon afterwards, John Snow is said to have died & before any Patent had issued to him for the Tract so allowed – nor has any Description passed for it—The Lot No 192 in the Township of Newark (now Township of Niagara) was some time since applied for by a certain George Cockle of Niagara, late of Butlers Rangers under an order of Council for 100 acres, warrant of Survey No 11, supposed to compleat his military claim – but as the Content of the Tract are not with certainty ascertained, the Letters DWS have been inserted on the plan by the Actg Surr General, as a memorandum, it is assumed, that the Tract was not altogether in a state for location, and to guard this office in his absence from acting upon it without due circumspection—all which is submitted to your Excellency’s wisdom—for the actg Surveyor General [Signed] Chewett & Ridout” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle 5, Petition Number 28a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Bathsheba Soper (now Wilson) widow of Samuel Soper late of Butlers Rangers deceased and John Soper their son dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 27 Jun 1795
“Humbly sheweth, That your Petitioners having in the month of December 1790 preferred to the Land Board of Mecklenburg, a Petition for Four Hundred acres of Land in the Township of Pittsburg, the Board was pleased to order the same to be granted—as by the annexed Certificate will appear—That your Petitioners about three Years ago removed into the Home District, without having located the above Land, and are now settled near the Ten mile Creek. They Humbly pray your Excellency will be graciously pleased to confirm the grant of the Land Board, and to allow your petitioner to locate the said Lands in the Township of Beverly in the Home District—And Your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Bathsheba & John Soper” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 Jul 1795 and read in Council on 20 Aug 1795. Ordered Recommended to grant the prayer of the petition and referred to the Surveyor General. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 126]
Order of the Land Board of the Mecklenburg District addressed to Mr Alexander Arthur, Acting Surveyor for the District of Mecklenburg appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Bathsheba Wilson and John Soper
The Bearers Bethesha Wilson & John Soper having on the fifteenth Day of December five Served to this Board a Petition addressed to His Excellency in Council for a Grant of four hundred Acres of Land in the Township of Pittsburgh in Right of Samuel Soper deceased late Private in Butlers Rangers we have examined into their Pretensions on their Behalf and find them entitled to receive four hundred Acres in Behalf of the said Samuel Soper; that is to say the said Bethcoba Wilson two hundred Acres, and John Soper for himself & the other Children of the said Samuel Soper to the other two hundred Acres. Given at the Board at Kingston this fifteenth Day of December 1790 [Signed] Richard Cartwright Junr, Neil McLean, Richard Porter, M Stuart” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 126b]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Soper dated at Niagara on 4 Jun 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“The Petition of John Soper, son of Samuel Soper late of Butlers Rangers—(age 24 years)—Respectfully shews – That your [petitioner] having never received any Land – That your petitioner is desirous to settle on the lands of the Crown in this Province, being in a condition to cultivate and improve the same. That he has taken the usual oaths, & 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 at Long point Settlemt 200 acres of land upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792, or such other quantity of land as to your Excellency in your wisdom may think meet. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Received at the Executive Council on 14 Jun and read in Council on 13 Jul. Ordered recommended if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 60]
Mentioned in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of William Macclennon
“Most humbly sheweth To your Excellency that your petitioner in the year One thousand seven hundred and eighty four bought of Samuel Sober [sic: Soper] late a Soldier in the Rangers, a piece of Land and Improvements laying about One Mile from the Survey of Newark on the Road to the Landing, which Land your petitioner has considerably Improved and, brought into such a state of Cultivation that it enables him to live comfortably in his old age—Some time after Samuel Sober had taken possession of this Land, it was surveyed and made a part of the reserved Land for the Crown, which caused your petitioner to be afraid of purchasing without the Advise of Colonel Depoister who encouraged him, told him Government might perhaps never want it and that he would [insure] it to him for Thirty Years—[your] Petitioner knowing by certain proofs of your Excellencys good and human [dis]position, that you would not wish to see any Subject distressed, more particularly [an] old Man who is unable to labour hard and begin the world again. Your Petitioner therefore most humbly begs that your Excellency in Council will take his Case into your wise consideration, and grant him, if not possible the whole of the said Land, such a part as laies betwixt the Line the late Engineer Mr Humphries run and the Farm called Doctor Kerr’s Farm, which Line takes in near half of his Improvements—Your petitioner further begs that if your Excellency cannot grant any part of the aforesaid Land to him and his Heirs forever, you will be pleased to grant him the whole of his Improvements for his Life or sol long a time as to your Excellency in your wisdom may seem proper—Your petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray” [Unsigned] No Executive Council dates or order noted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “M” Bundle 1, Petition Number 101]
Signer to the certificate of James Ogden and others dated on 30 Nov 1837 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Reuben Green
“These may certify that we the under Subscribers Are well Aquainted with Reuben Green of the Township of windham in the County of Norfolk And we Also Know that the said Green By Encouragement From Mr Blains has taken possession of Lott Number Three in the Eighth Concession of Said Township and has cleared ploughd Lived and farmed on the Same Without Any Interrution until Now But Believe that Some Evil minded person is Now Trying To Take the Advantage of him unjustly. Windham Nover 30th 1837 [Signed] John Ogden; James Kellam; John H Forse; Wm Forse; George Forse; Abraham Hunter; Daniel Sovereen” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 22, Petition Number 8]
Mention of Jacob Sparbeck in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Alexander Allen dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 27 Nov 1794:
“Humbly Sheweth. That your Petitioner came to the Province two years since and being desirous of improving on Lands prays a grant for an allotment above Burlington Bay on the Road leading to the River Thames. Your Petitioner likeways prays that your Excellency will please to Grant the remainder of the Lands due to the Family of Jacob Sparbeck Deceased who served His Majesty in the late Corps of Rangers commanded by Lieutt Butler during the American War & he never Located but One Hundred Acres; and as your Petitioner Married the Widow of the Decd is desirous of Locating the remainder of the Lands which your Excellency may please to conceive the Family entitled to from the service of her former Husband who left a Wife and Four children at his Decease, or Grant such relief on the Promises as thro Your goodness may seem meet and your Petitioner will ever Pray.” [Signed] Alexander Allen. Noted: “Two hundred Acres to Margrat Allan as the daughter of J. [Cohoe] a Ranger. One hundred & fifty Acres for 3 Children to be given in Jacob Sparbacks Name their Father—& [Three?] hundred in all as Jacob Sparbacks Allowance of Land as a Reduced Ranger.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “A” Bundle “Misc.” Petition Number 31]
Upper Canada Land Petition of the Widow Sparbanks dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake on 4 Apr 1795
“humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner is desirous of settling in the Town of Newark. Prays Your Excellency will grant her a Town Lot No Two hundred and Seventy Six—that she may build on the same—and yr Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—” [Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 18 Jun. Ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 128]
Mentioned in the report of Acting Surveyor General David W. Smith dated at the Surveyor General’s Office on 5 Apr 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Con O’Neill
“May it please your Honor – In obedience to your Honors order in Council the 12 July 1796, to survey lot No 5, in the 2d Concession of the Township of Bertie, for Cornelius [sic] O’neill, “if practicable”; I am to report to your Honor, that when I received the plan of Bertie, as [from] Quebec, Lot No 5, with a small Quantity of broken front, was Vacant, but on the Land board Plans being returned into the office, The widow Speakmans name was on No 5 – This woman has received no assignment from me; but as her name was on the Plan, Inquired further from Mr Oneil previous to my describing the land, & he brought Alexr McQueen, who made the enclosed affidavit – upon which I wait your Honors Instructions – All which is submitted to your Honors wisdom—[Signed] D W Smith ASG” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 15b]
Affidavit of Alexander McQueen Senior dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 30 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Con O’Neill
“Personally appeared before me David W Smith Esquire, one of His majesty’s Justices of the Peace for the Home District of the Province of Upper Canada Alexander McQueen of the Township of Bertie, in the District and Province aforesaid Senior, who being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God, declared that sometime about the year 1788 a certain Joseph Speakman who then lived on Lot No five in the second concession in said Township on Lake Erie, sold his improvemt thereon to Cornelius [sic] O’Neill of said township – and then removed with his family near to Detroit, where he since deceased – and that the above mentioned Lot has since that time been in the occupation of, and improved by the said Cornelius [sic] O’Neil—Sworn before me at Newark this 30 Day of March 1797 [Signed] D W Smith, J. P.” Alex: McQueen made his mark. “witness T Ridout” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “N” Bundle 3, Petition Number 15c]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Simon Speck dated at Niagara on 27 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]
“The Petition of Simon Speck – late of Butlers Rangers – who never received any Certificate but the one annexed- & never located any Land—Respectfully shews, That your petitioner is desirous to settle on the lands of the Crown in this Province, being in a condition to cultivate and improve the same. That he has taken the usual oaths, and subscribed the declaration, that he professes the Christian Religion, and obedience to the laws, and has lived inoffensively in the country. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him three Hundred acres of land in the township above the Delaware Village on the Thames, or such other quantity of land as to your Excellency in your wisdom may think meet. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 13 Jul 1796. Ordered recommended to be confirmed in 300 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 38]
Land Board Ticket attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Simon Speck
“Simon Speck Ranger Three Lotts Board [Signed] P Frey” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 56a]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Frelick dated at Niagara on 27 Jan 1797
“Respectfully Shews—That your petitioner served in Colonel Butlers late Corps of Rangers during the American War and has only received Two hundred acres of Land- That your petitioner married the daughter of Robt Spencer a discharge Soldier who served in Coll Butlers late Corps of Rangers, and has Six children two of whom were born previous to the year 1789 prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him One hundred acres due him as a reduced Soldier and such further grant for his wife and family as your Honor may think proper and your petitioner will as in duty bound ever pray” John Frelick made his mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Jan 1797 and read in Council on 17 Mar 1797. Ordered recommended for 300 acres including those already received in Military Lands & 150 acres as family lands—His wife recommended for 200 acres as the daughter of a Loyalist. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 69]
Certificate of John Reilly J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Frelick
“I do hereby Certify that John Frelick served in Col. Butlers Late Corps of Rangers that he had a Wife and two Children in this province before the year 1789 & that his wife is the daughter of Robert Spencer a Loyalist who served in the above Corps—Given under my hand at Stamford this 28th day of January 1797—[Signed] John Reilly J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “F” Bundle 2, Petition Number 69b]
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.
Abigail Freligh – Daughter to a U. E. R Spencer 200 acres in Burford Township [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 4, Petition Number 117e]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Adam Spencer of the Township of Stamford dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 11 Feb 1797
“Humbly shews – That your Petitioner is a Son of Robert Spencer – late of Butlers Rangers – and that he has received 200 acres of Land – of which 150 are in the above named Township – and the remainder in Pelham – that he has considerably improved both tracts and has Dwelling Houses on them – that not having sufficient Land in one Spot for a farm, prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him an additional Lot of Land, and as in duty bound your Petitioner will ever pray – [Signed] Adam Spencer” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Feb 1797 and read in Council on 25 Feb 1797. Ordered petitioners have received all the land they are entitled to. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 137]
Certificate of David Secord, J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Adam and Robert Spencer
“Four Mile Creek Mills 9 Feb 1797 The Bearers Adam & Robt Spencer I Have Long been Acquainted with and and [sic] they have to the Best of My Knowledge behaved Like good Honost Industrous Men and I believe them to Be good Subjects to Our present Government as Their father & frinds was before them. Given Under My hand This 9 Day Feby 1797 [Signed] D Secord” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 137b]
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]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Hannah Spencer received at the Executive Council Office on 8 Mar 1797
“respectfully Shews—That your petitioner having married an old Ranger (Robt Spencer) who Served in Col. Butlers Corps – and has never yet located any Lands – prays your Honor would be pleased to allow her such a grant of Land as your Honor may think proper to allow her and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Hannah Spencer” Received at the Executive Council Office on 8 Mar 1797 and read in Council on 7 Apr 1797. Ordered not recommended. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 198]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Lieutenant Hazelton Spencer and Lieutenant Oliver Church dated at Niagara on 11 Jul 1793
“Most Humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner jointly with the said Lieutenant Oliver Church, having some time ago located One thousand acres of Land on the North side of Burlington Bay called Lot No 2 (which Lands were apportioned to them in part of those they are entitled to draw in consequence of their Services) is desirous of being confirmed in the possession of the said Lands by a regular Grant thereof in favour of Your Petitioner as aforesaid and the above mentioned Lieutenant Oliver Church—That the Plan of the Survey of the said North side of Burlington Bay will evince the Facts herein stated, Reference being thereunto had—Wherefore your Petitioner prays that Your Excellency would direct the said Grant to be issued agreeable to the Circumstances herein set forth And Your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray vizt. For self & Oliver Church [Signed] H Spencer” Read in the Executive Council on 12 Jul 1793. No order on the petition. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 102]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Spencer Senior dated at Niagara on 27 Jan 1797
“Respectfully Shews That your petitioner served His Majesty last War in Colonel Butlers late Corps of Rangers and [h]as only received one hundred acres of Land which he has cultivated and improved, —That your petitioner brought in his family from the States in the year 1785 which then consisted of a wife and Six children – That your petitioner lost his wife four years ago but hopes your Honor will be pleased to consider him as having served His Majesty during the late war, and having a large family to provide for will be pleased to grant him his residue as a reduced Soldier, and such further grant for his family as your Honor may think proper, and your petitioner will, as in duty bound ever pray—” Robert Spencer made his mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Jan 1797 and read in Council on 11 Mar 1797. Ordered 200 acres to complete his Military Lands and 350 acres family lands if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 143]
Certificate of John Reilly dated on 28 Jan 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Spencer Senior
“I do hereby Certify that Robert Spencer served in Col. Butlers late Corps of Rangers during the American War and brought in his wife and Six children in the Year 1785—Given Under my hand this 28th day of Jany 1797 John Reilly J. P. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 143b]
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]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Spencer Junior of Stamford dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 5 Feb 1797
“Humbly shews – That your Petitioner is a Son of Robert Spencer of the above named Township who served His majesty 15 years – 8 of which he was in Butlers Rangers – That your Petitioner has received 200 Acres of Land, part whereof is in Stamford & part in Pelham, and that he has considerably improved both tracts—that not having sufficient for a farm in one place your petitioner prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him an additional Lot – and as in Duty bound your Petitioner will ever pray—[Signed] Robert Spencer Junr” Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 Feb 1797 and read in Council on 25 Feb 1797. Ordered petitioners have received all the land they are entitled to. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 137c]
Certificate of David Secord, J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petitions of Adam and Robert Spencer
“Four Mile Creek Mills 9 Feb 1797 The Bearers Adam & Robt Spencer I Have Long been Acquainted with and and [sic] they have to the Best of My Knowledge behaved Like good Honost Industrous Men and I believe them to Be good Subjects to Our present Government as Their father & frinds was before them. Given Under My hand This 9 Day Feby 1797 [Signed] D Secord” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 137b]
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.
Robert Spencer – U. E. 550 acres in Blenheim Township [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 4, Petition Number 117c]
Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Hodgkinson [signed Hogkisson] of Clinton dated on 27 Apr 1797
“Humbly shews – That your Petitioner is married to Sarah the Daughter of Robert Spencer a Loyalist U. E. – also having never received the King’s Bounty, to persons of her Description; your Petitioner humbly prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him 200 acres of Land in his wifes behalf and, your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] John Hogkinsson” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 May 1797 and read in Council on 2 May 1797. Ordered 200 acres to the wife of the Petitioner the daughter of a Loyalist if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “H” Bundle 3, Petition Number 32]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Jonathan Sprague dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 18 Jun 1794
“Humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner suffered long imprisonment and the loss of all his property during the late rebellion in the revolted colonies, that he has ever since been desirous of removing under the British government but has never found it convenient until the present time. He is now at Niagara with his family and desirous of becoming an Inhabitant of this Province. Encouraged by his Excellency’s most gracious proclamation and the indulgence ever experienced by suffering Loyalists in this colony he throws himself at the feet of Your August Body and most humbly requests your Honors would grant him a location of Six hundred Acres of land and as in duty bound he will ever pray [Signed] Jonathan Sprague” Received at the Executive Council Office on 21 Jun 1794 and read in Council on 21 Jun. Ordered granted 400 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 85]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Springer received at the Executive Council Office on 13 Aug 1794
“Most respectfully represents—That your Memorialist is just come into the Province and that he has ever been attached to the British Government which is well known from the Assistance he gave during the late War, And being desirous of settling in the Province, humbly request that Your Excellency will grant such a proportion of Land to him and his Family, (consisting of a wife and three Children) as yr Excellency in yr wisdom shall think meet. Prays that he may have a grant at the Head of the Lake And your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] Benjamin Springer” Appended note of Adam Vrooman: “The Petitioner is well known to many in this Province particularly to myself & therefore can recommend him to yr Excellency—[Signed] Adam Vrooman” Received at the Executive Council Office on 13 Aug 1794. Ordered granted 200 acres on 4 Nov 1794. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 62]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Daniel Springer received at the Executive Council Office on 24 Jul 1797
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner came into this Province in the year 1784, and Settled on Lot 14 and in the 3rd Concession Township of Barton, but has til now neglected Petitioning for the same – Your Petitioner therefore Humbly prays your Honor would be pleased to confirm him said lot, and such further addition as your Honor may think proper (having lost his Father in His Majesty’s Service last war) – and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Daniel Springer” Received at the Executive Council Office on 24 Jul 1797 and read in Council on 29 Jul 1797. Ordered recommended for confirmation in No. 14 3rd Concession in Barton. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 238]
Certificate of Ralfe Clench dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 27 Jul 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Daniel Springer
“The Bearer Daniel Springer is son to the late David Springer (deceased) who to my knowledge was a Loyalist and was killed by the Americans in the year 1777 – Newark 27th July 97 [Signed] Ralfe Clench” Added note: “David Springer (deceased) is entered on the original list of U. E. – & now in my office [Initialled] RC” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 238b]
Certificate of Richard Beasley, J. P. dated at Burlington Bay on 21 Jul 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Daniel Springer
“I do Certify that Daniel Springer has resided in this Province Since the year 1784 and is the son of a Loyalist who lost his life for his Attachment to the British Empire – to by Certain Knowledge – Burlington Bay 21st July 1797 [Signed] Richard Beasley J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 238c]
Certificate of William Dickson, J. P. dated on 25 Jul 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Daniel Springer
“I do hereby certify that Daniel Springer appeared before me William Dickson Esquire one of his Majestys Justice of the Peace in and for the Home District and took the oath of Allegiance & signed the Declaration 25 July 1797 [Signed] William Dickson JP” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 238c]
Upper Canada Land Petition of John Springer dated at Niagara on 14 Oct 1796
“Respectfully Shews That Your Petitioner is the Son of David Springer a Loyalist who was killed by the Americans during the late war, & has never recd any Lands—Prays yr Honor for such Donation as yr Honor may please to Grant & yr Petitioner as in Duty Bound will ever pray—[Signed] John Springer” Received at the Executive Council Office on 14 Oct [1796] and read in Council on 7 Apr 1797. Ordered not recommended. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 188]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of John Springer received at the Executive Council Office on 14 Jul 1797
“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner’s Father lost his life last war in His Majesty’s Service and left your Petitioner destitute almost of every Support—That your Petitioners eldest Brother served likewise in Col. Butlers Rangers—Wherefore your Petitioner prays for such quantity of land for himself, and for his wife (the Daughter of Jon Rykman, Loyalist UE)—as your Honor in your Wisdom may think proper, and your Petr as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] John Springer” Received at the Executive Council Office on 14 Jul 1797 and read in Council the same day. Ordered the Petitioner and wife recommended for 200 acres each. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 9]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Kesia Springer received at the Executive Council Office on 14 Jul 17[98]
“The Petition of Kesia Springer, wife to Benjn Lockwood—& Daur of David Springer Humbly Shewewth—That your Petitioner is the Daughter of a U. E. Loyalist, and has never yet drawn any Lands, wherefore your Petitioner prays you Honor would be pleased to extend the Kings Bounty to her in lands as has been done to others of her Description and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray. Josiah Lockwood made his mark “atty for Kesia Springer” Received at the Executive Council Office on 14 Jul 17[98]. Ordered to lie over for the UE List. Read again in Council on 14 Jun 1798. Ordered recommended for 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 87]
Certificate of Richard Beasley, J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Kesia Springer
“I Do Certify that Kesia Springer wife to Benjamin Lockwood is the Daughter of a Loyalist – Burlington Bay 11th July 1797 [Signed] Richard Beasley J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 87b]
Certificate of Ralfe Clench, Clerk of the Peace dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 20 Feb 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Kesia Springer
“The bearer Mr Benjn Lockwood is married to Karzia Springer daughter to the late David Springer whose Heirs satisfied the justices in Sessions that he adhered to the Unity of the Epire and is enrolled in the U. E. list—Newark 20th February 97 [Signed] Ralfe Clench, Clerk of the Peace” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 87c]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Margaret Springer, Widow of the late David Springer dated at Burlington Bay on 4 Mar 1793
“Most humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner’s late Husband after many proofs of his Loyalty & attachment to the Crown from the earliest period of the disturbances in America, lost His life in an Attempt to Join the army of General Burgoin at Still Water accompanied by several other Loyalists having been overtaken and attacked by the Rebels in Superior Numbers—That Your Petitioner after her Husband had been so killed was Stript of all her moveable & immoveable property to a considerable Value and left to struggle with a numerous & young family against all the clamities of her Situation in the midst of the murderers of her Husband & the Robbers of her property. That Your Petitioner embraced the first Opportunity, which her Circumstances allowed of coming under the protection of the British Government in this Settlement with her large family but never received any Compensation for her many & Great Losses. Wherefore your Petitioner offering the fullest proof of the above facts humbly recommends her Case to Your Excellency’s known humanity & prays that Your Excellency would grant her leave to occupy twelve Hundred acres of unlocated Lands in this district in Compensation of her Sufferings being sensible that there is now no other public remedy left for them and Your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—&c &c [Signed] Margaret Springer 5 Children” Order of Council dated 24 May 1797: Granted four hundred acres for herself and two hundred for each of her family Rachel, Henrietta, Lucy, Martha and Benjamin Springer. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 8]
Certificate of Richard Beasley appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Margaret Springer
“I do hereby certify that Marg. Springer has five children as under—Rachel Springer, Henrietta Springer, Lucy Mary Springer, Martha Springer, Benj Springer. Lucy should have been Mary [Signed] Richard Beasley” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 8d]
The undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Richard Beasley, Benjamin Fairchild Jr. and Margaret Springer ordered on 26 May 1796
“Humbly Sheweth that your petitioners have taken Lands to the North and South of the new road leading to the Rive La Tranche would wish to obtain Your Excellencys Grant for the Same. Richard Beasley lot No. 46, Benjamin Fairchild Junr. Lot No. 50, Margaret Springer Lot N on the South and N on the North and Your petitioners as in Duty Bound shall ever pray in Township of Ancaster. The Executive Council ordered on 26 May 1796 the petition referred to the Surveyor General. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “B” Bundle 1, Petition Number 54]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Richard Springer late of Butler’s Corps of Rangers ated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 6 Jul 1795
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is Eldest son of David Springer late of the Province of New York, who was Killed by the Rebels on his endeavoring to join the Kings Forces. That your Petitioner has received three Hundred acres of Land as a disbanded Ranger, but has never applied for Lands for his Family, consisting of a wife & four Children. That his wife Sarah Springer is daughter of John Bice of this Township, a Loyalist U. E. and has likewise never received the Land she may be entitled to as such—Your Petitioner therefore humbly prays your Excellency would be pleased to grant him such Lands for his wife and Family, as to your Excellency’s wisdom shall seem meet and as in Duty bound, your Petitioner shall ever pray—[Signed] Richard Springer” Received at the Executive Council Office on 5 Jul 1795 and read in Council on 18 Aug 1795. Ordered recommended to grant 200 acres for his wife the Daughter of a Loyalist, not entitled to family lands his children being young. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 119]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Sarah Springer (an U. E. Loyalist) received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Apr 1798
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner is Widow of the late Captn Robert Lottridge (and is remarried to an U E Loyalist – That your Petitioner having received no lands – and conceiving herself entitled to an Allowance from Government, prays for such proportion under the late Regulations as to your Honor may seem reasonable – and as in duty bound she will pray &c. Sarah Springer by [Signed] A Macdonell her atty” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Apr 1798 and read in Council on 23 Apr 1798. Ordered the certificate is not sufficient to entitle Petitioner as UE. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 83]
Certificate of Richard Beasley dated at Barton on 2 Mar 1798 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Sarah Springer
“Barton—County of Lincoln} I do hereby Certify that Sarah Springer was married to the late Captain Robert Lotridge of the Indian department, and after his death re-married her present husband John Springer of the Township of Barton aforesaid. 2d March 1798 [Signed] Richard Beasley J. P. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 4, Petition Number 83a]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Gasper Springsteen of Gainsborough dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 25 Apr 1797
“Humbly shews That your Petitioner was a Soldier in Butlers Rangers, and has only received two Hundred Acres of his military Lands – which are in the above named Township – He therefore respectfully prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him the remaining 100 acres due him, and as in duty bound your Petitioner will ever pray—” Gasper Springsteen made his mark. “witness T. Ridout” Added note: “the Petitioner has a wife & three children” Read in the Executive Council on 25 Apr 1797. No order issued. Read again in the Executive Council on 10 Mar 1801. Ordered recommended for 200 acres under the New Regulations to close all claims. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 5, Petition Number 56]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Staats Springsteel [sic] dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 27 Mar 1793
“humbly Shews—That your Petitioner served his Majesty as a soldier in Col Butler’s Corps of Rangers six years during the late rebellion. That after the conclusion of the war he settled on his present farm on the mountain and there lived peaceably four years. He had a certificate from the then acting surveyor for one hundred acres. Two hundred acres he purchased from one Peter McMickin. Unfortunately for your Petitioner, He has lost his certificate and neglected to take any writing for the money he payed McMickin for his land. Your Petitioner begs leave to represent to your Excellency that no certificates were given of Land until four years after his purchases, at which time McMickin unaware to your Petitioner took out certificates of the lands. And that one Middough preferred a claim to the other hundred acres so that your Petitioners whole farm with all his improvements are claimed between them. Your Petitioner feels himself greatly aggrieved in the Premises and most humbly approaches your Excellency for relief. He begs your Excellency to take his case into your wise consideration and grant him the relief in his case your Excellency in your Wisdom shall see fit, and as in duty bound he shall ever pray [Signed] Stoarts [sic] Springsteel [sic]” Received at the Executive Council on 20 May 1793. Ordered referred to the Land Board. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 39]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Staats Springsteen soldier in late Col. Butlers Rangers dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 24 Jun 1794
“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner served His Majesty during the last American War in Coll Butlers Rangers and ever since said Corps was disbanded hath resided in this Province; and the last Summer went to Murphys Creek in the vicinity of Long Point and improved on Land at that place, previous to which time he had not taken up the Whole of the Lands which he conceived himself to be entitled to by His Majesty most Gracious Proclamation relative to the Bounty Lands for disbanded Troops who served during (or in) the said War—Your Petitioner in consequence of a Proclamation lately published now came forward and if he has Trespassed, or proceeded Contrary to any Original Order in improving previous to obtaining authority for so doing, he hopes your Excellency will [complete] his Proceedings to his want of information, as it never was his intention to do anything inconsistent to the rules laid down by Government in such or any other case whatsoever. Therefore your Petitioner most Humbly prays that your Excellency will take the Premises into consideration and confirm him in an allotment of Land at the place above specifyed and he in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Staats Springsteen” Read in the Executive Council on 20 Jun 1794. Ordered to stand over. Read in Council on 15 Jul. Ordered rejected. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 1, Petition Number 97]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Staats Springsteen [signed Springstein] dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 14 Aug 1795
“Most humbly sheweth—That your Petitioner during the late american war was a warm and active Loyalist and served in the Corps of Rangers commanded by Lieutenant Colonel John Butler, untill the Peace having suffered much by reason of his Zeal & Services in person & property. —That your Petitioner, at different times, brought into this Country, for His Majesty’s Service numbers of Loyalists, amounting to near one Hundred Men as he is ready to verify – and which he was solely the means, or principal Instrument of engaging & piloting into the british lines. —That your Petitioner having settled in this Province after the Peace took up lands under the existing authority, in the Province at the time, and settled and improved the same agreeable to the established rules & Regulations such lands being lots No 21, 22 and 23 in the 5th Concession of township No 2 more better known by the description of lots No 6, 15 & 21 in the Township of Stamford. That your Petitioner improved and cultivated such lots for several years unmolested untill one Peter McMicken, and one Peter Medought, conceiving a desire of depriving your Petitioner of his property, began to encroach upon him, whence a dispute arose which was submitted to the land Board, and your Petitioner having unguardedly suffered some Expressions to fall from him which gave undesigned offence to two Gentlemen of the said Board, Mr Hamilton & Mr Kerr a spirit of animosity against your Petitioner was set loose which in its progress has nearly ruined your Petitioner – as arbitrators have been named & ordered by the Board who have attempted to cut and mangle your Petitioner’s lands running at their Caprice lines in every direction thro it—and in each to seal your Petitioners ruin the Board have assigned by their Certificate portions of his property so loped off to other persons to wit to the said Medaught. —That your Petitioner, to avoid allocation and remove from such troublesome Neighbours is willing to relinquish the three Lotts to the said McMicken and Madaught provided they will reimburse him in the price of his Improvements at a fair Evaluation—otherwise he Hopes that Your Excellency will interpose and prevent the Enmity of the said Members of the land Board from affecting its purpose—Wherefore your Petitioner prays that Your Excellency will order enquiry to made into the premises—and direct that no Deed or Deeds do issue for the said lots in the meantime—and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray &c [Signed] Staats Springstein” Received at the Executive Council Office on 17 Aug 1795. Ordered to lie over. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 117]
Upper Canada Land Petition of Stotts Springsteel [signed Springsted] dated on 13 Apr 1797
“Your Petitioner Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner Served his Majesty Six Years and Seven Months In Coln Buttlers Rangers and your Petitioner Begs your Honours would Grant him What Compliment of Land your Honours Think Meet For His former Services, and your Petitioner In Duty Bound Will Ever Pray [Signed] Stotts Springsted” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Apr 1797 and read in Council on 10 May 1797. Ordered the petitioner has already received his land. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 5]
Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Stotts Springsteel [sic] received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Apr 1797
“Your Petitioner Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner has made Application Sundry Times and Received no Answr Your Petitioner Begs your Honours would Take into your Serious Consideration And afford me What Quantity of Family Land your Honours thinks Meet for my Wife and two Children and your Petitioner in Duty Bound will Ever Pray [Signed] Stotts Springsteel” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Apr 1797 and read in Council on 10 May 1797. Ordered it appears that the Petitioner’s children are illegitimate. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 6]