Land Petitions of the Niagara Settlers "Widener to Willis"

Widener, John

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of John Widner [signed Widener] received at the Executive Council Office on 9 May 1797

Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner has resided in this Province for upwards of a Year, and brought his family with him—That your Petitioner has taken the Oaths &c. wherefore prays your Honor would be pleased to allow him a location of Two hundred acres and your Petr as in duty bound will ever pray—John Widener” Received at the Executive Council Office on 9 May 1797 and read in Council on 10 May 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as a settler on producing a satisfactory character from Mr. Hamilton. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 136]

Certificate of William Dickson, J. P. dated on 8 May 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Widner

“I do hereby Certify that on this 8th May 1797 – [John] Widener 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 & signed the Declaration [Signed] William Dickson J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 136b]

Certificate of Robert Hamilton, J. P. dated at Queenston on 13 May 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Widner

“Personaly Appeared before me Robert Hamilton Esqr one of his Majestys Justices of the Peace for the Home district of Upper Canada John Hart Mason in this District who on Oath declared that John Wedner with his Family came into this Settlement last Winter & that he verily believes that they purpose to become Settlers therein—Sworn before me at Queenston May 13th 1797 – [Signed] R. Hamilton J. P. [Signed] John Hart” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 136c]

Wier, Conrad

Upper Canada Land Petition of Conrad Wier dated at Niagara on 18 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“The Petition of Conrad Wier – from New Jersies Farmer – who is just arrived in the Province with his Family – consisting of a wife & four Children—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. Prays your Excellency, would be pleased to grant him upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792, such quantity of land as to your Excellency in your wisdom may think meet. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul. Ordered recommended for 200 acres. Received at the Executive Council Office on 11 May 1796 and read on 12 Jul. Ordered recommended for 200 acres if of age. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 5]

Wier, John

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: Wier, John authorized by Paul Averill on 30 Jan 1797; Oath of Allegiance sworn on 31 Jan [1797]; by G. Forsyth, Esq; Lot asked for: Lot 19 Concession 3

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of William and John Weirs [sic] received at the Executive Council Office on 13 May 1797

“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner settled on Lot no 20—3rd Concession, and your Petitioner’s Brother on Lot no 19—3rd by the recommendation of Paul Averill – in Township of Townsend—but your petitioner having been given to understand, that such recommendation was of no effect, prays your Honor would be pleased to confirm him and Brother, they having made improvements on the same, and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Wm Weirs” Received at the Executive Council Office on 13 May 1797 and read in Council the same day. Ordered recommended for confirmation. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 123]

Receipt issue by the Receiver General’s Office at York (Toronto) on 1 Jul 1831 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William and John Weirs

“John Weirs has paid into this office the fee of survey on Two hundred Acres of Land, under regulation of 9th July 1796 pursuant to an Order in Council of the 13th May 1797—Survey, £1.7.6 Curry For the Receiver General [Signed] W. Rose” Added receipt of Samuel Ridout: “No 198 York 1st July 1831 Received the Patent Fee £3.5.2 Curry – [Signed] Saml Ridout” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 123e]

Certificate of Charles Ingersoll dated at Oxford on 21 Jun 1831 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William and John Weirs

“This may Certify that I have am acquainted with Mr John Wier of Burford for many years and believe him to be a worthy Inhabitant and a Loyal man [Signed] Charles Ingersoll” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 123f]

Wier, Robert

Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Wier dated on 8 Jul 1794

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner was the first Man from the State of New Hampshire that embarked with a Family to this province after your Excellencys Proclamation appeared in that part of America; he has been upwards of Twelve months in Newark and Sickness prevented an earlier opportunity to apply to your Excellency for an allotment of Land to improve upon to Accommodate his Family—He has a Wife, and Eight children five of which are Boys and as he was ever attached to the British Government flatters himself your Excellency will please to deal with him as thro’ your Goodness you have ever done to Loyalists under the description of your Petitioner—His Loyalty if required by your Excellency he will make appear, and pray’s you will take the premises into consideration and grant such relief as thro’ your Wisdom may seem meet and your petitioner in Duty bound will every Pray [Signed] Robt Wier” Received at the Executive Council Office on 8 Jul 1794 and read in Council on 9 Jul 1794. Ordered referred to the Land Board. Gave a certificate for 200 acres and recommended to His Excellency in Council. [Upper Canada Land Petitions NAC “W” Bundle 1, Petition Number 34]

Notation of the Land Board dated at Newark on 30 Aug 1794 appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Wier

“The Land board having Examined into the Character & the Loyalty of the Petitioner Robert Wier & having Administered to him the Oath of Allegance have this day granted him a Certificate for Two hundred Acres of Land & Refer him to his Excellency the Governor & Council for any further Quantity they in their wisdom may think Also for his Services or […] family [Signed] R. Hamilton, John McNabb, Robert Kerr” [Upper Canada Land Petitions NAC “W” Bundle 1, Petition Number 34a]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Robert Wiers dated at Niagara on 30 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“The Petition of Robert Wiers of the Town of Newark Respectfully shews – That your Petitioner came into the Province in the year 1793 with a wife and eight Children and that he never received a certificate but for 200 acres of Land— 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 one Thousand 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] Read in the Executive Council on 13 Jul 1796. Ordered not recommended. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 23]

Wier, Sarah

Upper Canada Land Petition of Sarah Wier of the Town of Newark, widow dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 12 May 1797

“Humbly shews That your petitioner came into the Province with her late Husband Robert Wier, in the year 1793, bringing with them 8 Children, five of whom are Sons, & three are Daughters – That your Petitioner’s Husband, was a loyalist, attached to His Majestys Person and Government, & was imprisoned for his Loyalty. That since his arrival in this Province, has applied himself industriously to the support of his family, and having expended considerable sums of money in various improvements, was in a fair way to succeed, when Death arrested his pursuits, and left your petitioner – with a numerous family & with Slender means to Support them—That your Petitioner’s Husband immediately upon his arrival in the Province, applied to His Excellency Lieut Governor Simcoe, for a grant of Land, who was pleased to say, in presence of Mr James Wallace of this place, that her Husband, should be handsomely considered, as he was the first settler who had brought a family into the Province from New Hampshire—That her Husband did afterwards apply for Land and attended last Summer at York, for the result of application, but on account of the great number of persons then at that place, whose Homes were distant from the Seat of Government, He was recommended to wait the return of the Honbl Council to Newark & then apply – which he has since been in great measure prevented from doing, by his frequent absence there from, on his private Business—That presuming the Petition may not have been yet read, your Petitioner humbly prays, that her present application may receive your Honors benevolent consideration, & that Your Honor would be pleased to indulge her with such grant of if the vacant Lands of the Crown as to your Honor may seem meet and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Sarah Wier” Received at the Executive Council Office on 12 May 1797 and read the same day. Ordered recommended for 200 acres, if no land was ever given to her late husband. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 134]

Receipt issued by the Receiver General’s Office at York (Toronto) on 5 Dec 1815 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Sarah Wier

“Samuel Weir agent for Sarah Weir has paid Three pounds, five Shillings and two pence bg the pat. Gee on 200 Acres of Land. O.C. 12th May 1797 and one pound seven Shillings and six pence Cy the surveyg fee thereon Old Regs 1796. [Signed] John McGill Recr Genl To John Small Esqf” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 134b]

Wiers, William

Upper Canada Land Petition of William Wires [sic] dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 17 Nov 1796

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner is removed with his family (consisting of a wife and four children) into this Province being desirous to settler therein—That Your Petitioner has been at all times a steady Loyalist, and is ready always to evince his attachment to His Majesty and government. That having never as yet received any Land, he humbly prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him five Hundred acres of the Vacant Lands of the Crown, or such other quantity as to your Honor may seem meet and Your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Unsigned] Added note of Thomas Ridout N. P.: I Do certify that the above petition was written on the personal application of Wm. Wires – [Signed] T Ridout N. P.” Received at the Executive Council on 17 Mar 1797 and read in Council on 28 Mar 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as a Settler. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 103]

Certificate of Nathaniel Pettit and others dated on 13 Nov 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William Wiers

“We The Subscribers Do Certify That we were aquainted with the barer William Wires in the Now State of New jersey and that he was Esteemed an Industress honest man and well affected to the Crown and Constitution of Great Britain on account of which he and the family he was of Suffered Mutch in their Circumstance by Imprisonment and other Impositions for Not Joyning the Rebellion in America Certified by [Signed] Nathl Pettit, Jacob Bainn, David Palmer, David Kemp” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 103b]

Grantee: Wier, William authorized by Paul Averill on 30 Jan; Oath of Allegiance sworn on 31 Jan [1797] by G. Forsyth Esq; Lot asked for: Lot 20 Concession 3

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of William and John Weirs [sic] received at the Executive Council Office on 13 May 1797

Receipt issued by the Receiver General’s Office at York (Toronto) on 2 Jun 1827 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William and John Weirs

“John Raddenhurst, Esqr York, U. C. 2nd June 1827 for William Weirs has paid into this office the fee of survey on two hundred Acres of Land, under regulation of 9th July 1796 pursuant to an order in council of the 13th May 1797—Survey, £1.7.6 Currency for the Receiver General [Signed] G. Hamilton” Added receipt of Thomas Ridout: “No 50 York 2nd June 1827 Received the Patent Fee on the above mentioned 200 Acres £3.5.2 Cy – for Samuel Ridout [Signed] Thos Ridout” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 123b]

Notation of Surveyor General Thomas Ridout dated at the Surveyor General’s Office on 20 Jul 1806 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William and John Weirs

“William Weir wishes to pay the patent Fee of 200 acres granted him by O. C. 13 May 1797 & located in Townshend. [Signed] T Ridout SGO 20 July 1806 – To W. Jarvis Eqr Scy. of the Province” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 123c]

Certificate of Warner Nelles dated at Grand River on 26 Apr 1827 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of William and John Weirs

“This is to certify that William Weir Served as an Ensign in Captain Samuel Hatt’s Company District of Gore in the fifth Lincoln Militia, and done his duty as an Ensign faithfully through the Late War with the United States of America—[Signed] Warner Nelles” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 123d]

Wilkerson, Robert

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]

Wilkinson, Richard N.

On a 1792 map of the Front Concession of Niagara Township included in the Upper Canada Land petition of Samuel Street, Richd Wilkinson was named on Lot 17. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 2, Petition Number 162]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Captain Richard N. Wilkinson dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 10 Jul 1797

“Respectfully Shews That your Petitioner served during the late American War as a Lieutenant in the Indian Department, and being entitled to Lands as such, has received thereof eleven hundred Acres – there being still due in this respect nine hundred Acres. —That your Petitioner is married to Eleanor, the Daughter of the late Alexander McDonell Esquire, Colonel Commandant of the Militia of the County of Glengary and one of the Judges of the late Court of Common Please for the now Eastern District, has four Children, two of whom are now come to years of Maturity – and has yet received only six hundred Acres of Family Lands—Wherefore Your Petitioner prays for the remainder of the Lands due to him in right of his Services, and such additional allowance of Family Lands as Your Honor may deem meet to allow – And as in duty bound he will ever pray—[Signed] R N Wilkinson” Received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Jul 1797 and read in Council the same day. Ordered recommended for 900 acres to complete his Military Lands and 150 acres family lands. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 10]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Captain Richard Wilkinson dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 27 Jul 1797

“The Petition of Captain Richard Wilkinson in behalf of the Heirs of the late Lieut Peter Everitt of the King’s Royal Regiment of New York. Respectfully Sheweth That Your Petitioner as Guardian to the Heirs of the said deceased (who died several years after the conclusion of the American War and after having drawn and improved a part of the Lands he was entitled to for his services) finds it a part of his duty to pray that he may be permitted to locate the remainder of the proportion of Lands of the said deceased being fifteen hundred Acres – to the use of the said Heirs and to be divided among them agreeable to a settlement for that purpose existing – And, as in duty bound, Your Petitioner will ever pray &c—[Signed] R Wilkinson” Received at the Executive Council Office on 27 Jul 1797. Ordered recommended that 1500 acres the residue of Lieut. Everetts Military Lands be grant to such of his next of kin as are resident in the Province as heirs in common. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 79]

Willaker, Frederic

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of Adam Lewis dated at Clinton on 26 Aug 1797

“Humbly Sheweth – That your Petitioner came into this Province in the Year of 88 And hath not received any Grant of Lands, And that he was Free Born, and brought a pass into this Country, that he applied to his Excellency John Graves Simcoe Esquire—Governor, and was ordered to enter his Lands in the Surveyor Generals Office, but was informed that the Land was entered to Frederic Willaker since Deceased, who Died without any Heir—that Your Petitioner hath Improved a Lot of Land And Humbly Prays Your Honor would be pleased to Confirm his Grant of Land unto him and Your Petitioner as in Duty bound will Ever Pray [Signed] Adam Lewis” Received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Aug 1797. Ordered people of the Petitioner’s description are not granted lands unless they have military claims. Added notation: “The Petitioners oath is said to be lodged in the Survr Gen’s Office” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “L” Bundle 3, Petition Number 46]

Willcocks, William

Upper Canada Land Petition of William Willcocks dated at York (Toronto) on 6 May 1800

“The Petition of William Willcocks Esqr – Phebe Willcocks his Wife, Maria Willcocks, Phebe Willcocks Junr, and Eugenia Willcocks, his three Daughters—Your Excellencys Petitioners Pray that the five blocks of Land in the Township of Norwich, which were proposed for in your Petitioners names, may be in one Patent Grant to William Willcocks Esqr who will pay the purchase for the same; and Your Excellency’s Petitioner will be thankful. [Signed] Will. Willcocks, Phebe Willcocks, Maria Willcocks, Phebe Willcocks Junr, Eugenia Willcocks” Read in the Executive Council on 6 May 1800. Ordered recommended that the five Lots in Norwich be granted in one deed to Mr Willcocks. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 5, Petition Number 41]

Wilcox/Willcox, Benjamin

Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Willcox of the Township of Grimsby dated at Grimsby on 12 Oct 1795

“Humbley Sheweth—That your Pettitioner was an Inhabitant in the now State of New jersey and settled on Land of his own and by the [….] of his attachment and adhereance to the Constitution of Great Brittain and the Regal Lands in their New Government Lost the Greatest part of what he was Possest of by fines Imprisonment and other Impositions Inflicted by them In the time of the war and that in the year 1788 he Removed himself in to this province with his Wife and Six children and prays that that [sic] your Excelency will Grant him Such further allotment of Land in Addition to the Two hundred acres he hath alredy Received by order of the Land Bord- as you in your wisdom may think fit Merits and your Pettitioner in Duty Bound will Ever pray [Signed] Benja Willcox” Read in the Executive Council on 12 Jul. Ordered wants the certificate for family lands. Later notation: gave a Warrant 15 Dec 1796 for his wife and six children having brought a certificate. Revised in Council on 28 Feb 1806. Recommended that a deed issue for three hundred and fifty acres of Family Lands for which the petitioner obtained a Warrant on 15 Dec 1796. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 28]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Willcox of the Township of Grimsby dated at Grimsby on 12 Oct 1795

Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Willcox dated at Niagara on 13 May 1796 [using a pre-printed form with fill-ins]

“The Petition of Benjamin Willcox of the Township of Grimsby, Farmer – Respectfully shews – That your Petitioner came into this Province in the year 1788 – with a wife & six children & that he has only received a Certificate for 200 acres of Land— That your petitioner is settled thereon & 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 Lands for his Family upon the terms and conditions expressed in your Excellency’s proclamation bearing date the 7th day of February, 1792, or such other quantity of land as to your Excellency in your wisdom may think meet. And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.” [Unsigned] Read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul. Ordered recommended for 200 acres. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 28b]

Certificate of Nathaniel Pettit, J. P. dated at 40 Mile Pond on 2 Oct 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Willcox

“These Do Certifie that I was aquainted with the Bare Benjamin Wilcox in New jersey and that the Contents of the above Pettition is true and that he was Esteemed an Industres honest man and of Good character in that Country Certified by [Signed] Nathl Pettit” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 28c]

Willcocks, Benjamin Jr.

Grantee: Willocks, Benjamin, Jr. authorized by Paul Averill on 19 Jan; Oath of Allegiance sworn on 20 Jan [1797] by J. Muirhead, Esq; Lot asked for: Lot 2 Concession 6

Willcox, Charles

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

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

Certificate of George Forsyth, J. P. dated at Niagara on 22 Jul 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Charles Willcox

“This Certifies that the Bearer Charles Willcox has taken the Oath of Allegiance, and Signed the Declaration before me at Niagara 22 July 1797 [Signed] Geo. Forsyth JP [To] The Surveyor Generals Office New Wark” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 5b]

Willcox, Daniel

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Daniel Wilcox [sic] received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Aug 1797

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner has been in this Settlement for Eight years last, has a Wife—Therefore Humbly Prays that him & wife may obtain the normal grant of lands as is customary to People of their description & your Petitioner will Ever Pray” Daniel Wilcox made his mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 30 Aug 1797. Ordered his wife recommended for 200 acres if her father appears on the U E list in October next, but no warrant to issue til that is ascertained. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 33]

Certificate of Ralfe Clench, Clerk of the Peace appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Daniel Wilcox

“The above named Danl Wilcox is married to the daughter of Mr Danl McIntyre a Loyalist who will be enrolled Next Sessions of the Peace [Signed] R Clench, Clerk of the Peace” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 33]

Certificate of Nathaniel Pettit, J. P. dated at 40 Mile Pond (Grimsby) on 5 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper CanadaLand Petition of Daniel Wilcox

“I Do hereby Certifie The [……] barer Daniel Willcox apered before me and took the oath of alegiance and the like as Directed by Law and that he is Generaly Esteemed an Industress honest man and well Esteemed in this Settlement where hath Lived here upward of Eight years Last past Certified by Nathl Pettit” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 33a]

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Daniel Willcox of the Township of Grimsby, County of Lincoln & District of Niagara

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner has a wife and two Children, and been a residenter in the Province upwards of Nine years, and about three year ago he has petitioned the Honerable Council for a Lott of Land, but has never yet received an answer – Wherefore he again takes the Liberty and prays that your Excellency would be pleased to grant to him Such a Portion of the waste Lands of the Crown, as to your Excellency may Seem meet – and as in Duty bound he will Ever pray” Daniel Willcox made his mark. Received at the Executive Council Office on 12 Nov 1800 and read in Council the same day. Ordered recommended for a Lot on one of the Streets or in Markham. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 5, Petition Number 65]

Certificate of Robert Nelles, J. P. appended to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Daniel Willcox

“I do hereby Certify that the above Petitioner Daniel Willcox is the Person he Describes himself to be in his Petition—[Signed] Robt Nelles” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 5, Petition Number 65]

Willcox, Isaac

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Isaac Willcox of the Township of Grimsby received at the Executive Council Office on 15 Feb 1802

“Humbly Shews That yr Petitioner came into the Province about two Years ago with his wife & five Children that he has taken the oaths & Prays yr Excellency will please to grant him 200 Acres & yr Petitioner in duty bound will pray [Signed] Isaac Willcox” Received at the Executive Council Office on 15 Feb 1802 and read in Council on 16 Feb 1802. Ordered recommended for 200 acres on Yonge Street, Markham or Gwillimbury. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 5, Petition Number 38]

Certificate of Robert Nelles J. P. dated on 8 Feb 1802 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Isaac Willcox

“I do hereby Certify that the Bearer Mr Isaac Willcox Resides in the Township of Grimsby, he has a wife and Six Children; one yoke of working Oxen, and three Cows. Given under my hand this 8th Day of Feby 1802—[Signed] Robt Nelles J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 5, Petition Number 38b]

Wilcox, Jacob

A signer to the certificate attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Gordon dated at Grimsby on 3 May 1796

“That your Petitioner was an Inhabitant of the State of New Jersey And that in the time of the late war he was known to be a faithful Subject to his Majesty, as he lived in a private place, the persons who came from the British Army to recruit Soldiers staid mutch at his House, he gave them all the assistance in his power to conceal, pilate, & help them off with their men & that by his assistance many very good men were sent to the Army For which he was Prosecuted, Imprisoned, & fined in such a large sum that rendered him unable (when he heard there was a Settlement for Subjects at Niagara) to Remove there with a Small Family or leave them in distress. But sent two of his Children before they ware of age, which are now Settled Inhabitants in this Province. That in the year 1793 he came into this Province with a wife & five Children. And humbly prayeth that your Excellency will grant him Such an allotment of Land as in your wisdom you think he merits. And your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Peter Gordon” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “G” Bundle 2, Petition Number 8]

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

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

Willard, Sarah (Hare)

Upper Canada Land Petition of William Hare, Sarah Willard (formerly S. Hare), Mary Fairchild (formerly M. Hare) and Elizabeth Hare dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 2 Apr 1793

“Most respectfully Sheweth That Your Petitioners are the Children & Heirs at Law of the late Captain John Hare of the Indian Department. That the said late Captn John Hare gave the most unequivocal proofs of his Loyalty from the first Appearance of rebellious Commotions in America, by taking a decided & active part for Government, and was one of those who accompanied Sir John Johnson in Spring 1776 thro the woods from the Mohawk River to Join the Royal Standard in Canada—That the said late Captain John Hare having been ordered to Join the Division of the British Army, destined to form a Diversion by the way of Fort Stanwix under Brigr General St Leger, was killed on the 6th of August 1777 in the Action fought at Oriska between a Detachment of the said Army & a strong Party of the Rebells commanded by their General Harkemer. That Your Petitioners hope that the right which the said late Captn John Hare held to Lands from the Crown, according to the Rank of his Commission, agreeable To His Majesty’s Proclamations and Orders on that Head was nowise diminished by the Sacrifice of his life in the Service of his Country—Wherefore Your Petitioners pray that Your Excellency would be pleased to grant them as Heirs to the said late Captn John Hare and in his right, Three Thousand Acres of the waste lands of the Crown to be divided among Your Petitioners as in right and equity may appertain and Your Petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray &c—for self & other Heirs [Signed] Willm Hare” Read in the Executive Council and ordered granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions NAC “H” Bundle 1, Petition Number 19]

Upper Canada Land Petition of Absalom Willcox dated in York (Toronto) on 28 Jul 1806

“Humbly Sheweth That Your Petitioner has been upwards of three years and a half in this Province, has a Wife and five Children in the Provincem has taken the oath of Allegiance as will appear by the accompanying Certificate, and has never received any land or order for land from the Crown. That he is desirous to occupy and improve a vacant lot, and is prepared and undertakes in case his Petition shall be favorably answered to pay the whole of the Patent and surveying fees into the hands of His Majesty’s Receiver of this Province within three days from the date of of the order in his favor.

Wherefore he prays that your Honor may be pleased to Grant him two hundred acres of the waste lands of the Crown under the Regulation of the 9 January 1804 acted upon 6 July 1804. And Petitioner will ever pray [signed] Absalom Willcox York 28th July 1806” Read in The Executive Council on 29 Jul 1806 and ordered a grant of two hundred acres of land. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 12, Petition Number 20]

Williams, Benaijah

Upper Canada Land Petition of Benaijah Williams dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake on 5 Aug 1795

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner has been in the Province nine years—but, having been chiefly employed at Mr Burches’ mill, had not applied for Lands—That he has a wife and three Children—Humbly prays your Excellency will be pleased to grant him such Lands for himself and Family as to your Excellency may seem meet and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Benaijah Williams” your Petitioner further prays your Excellency will be pleased to include in such grant as may be made him the Lots No 90 & 113 in the Township of Thorold—whereon is the name of Geo. Gustin—who went to the States 7 years ago without havg recd a Certificate for them—& that the Surveyor be authorized to grant the same to your petitioner instead of Geo. Gustin” Received at the Executive Council Office on 6 Aug 1795 and read in Council on 12 Aug 1795. Ordered recommended for 400 acres and referred to the Surveyor General for the specification he prays for. [Upper Canada Land Petitions NAC “W” Bundle 1, Petition Number 31]

Deposition of Benaiah Williams and Anthony Upper certified by Acting Surveyor General David W. Smith, J. P. on 23 Mar 1797

“Personally appeared before me D W Smith Esqr one of his Majesty’s Justices of the Peace—Benaiah Williams & Anthony Upper, who being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of almighty God—deposed, that they received from Paul Averill, two recommendations annexed, & having informed the Said Paul Averill that they had received Lands before, in the Province, he said it was of no consequence, & took one Dollar from them & each of them, informing them that his Recommendation was good, notwithstanding they had other Grants in the Province—Sworn before me this 23 day of March 1797 [Signed] D W Smith JP [Signed] Benaiah Williams, Anthony Upper” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 86]

Certificate of Paul Averill dated 6 Feb 1797 given to Benaiah Williams

“Newark february 6th 1797 I do recomend as a settler in the township of townsen [sic] Benagaih Williams this from [signed] paul Averill Agent for Andrew perce and Asosiates to David Wm Smith Esq. Sirveir General—” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 86a]

Certificate of Paul Averill dated 6 Feb 1797 given to Anthony Upper

“Newark february the 6th 1797 I do Recomend as a settler in the township of townsen [sic] Anthony Upper this from [signed] paul Averill Agent for Andrew perce and Asosiates to David Wm Smith Esq. Sirveir General—” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 86b]

Order of the Executive Council dated 27 Mar 1797

“The acceptance of Averill’s Recommendations to be Suspended at the Surveyor Genls Office – & he Summoned to appear at the Council Office next Friday to shew why they should not be refused altogether” “Read 31 March 1797 It appearing to the Board that Paul Avril has abused the Trust reposed in him, Ordered that no Recommendations of his that be received in future – nor the Recommendations of any other Person in the name of Andrew Peirce. Initialled P. R.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 86b]

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]

Benaiah Williams Lot 13 Concession 8

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

Williams, Frederick

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Frederick Williams read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul [1796]

“Humbly Sheweth That When your Petitioner Having Served His Majesty From the year 1778 to the year 1780 in Capt. Elias Smiths Enginear Department at New york and Philadelphia as Apears From His Discharge as Carpenter and That From that time to the Conclusion of the War Continued to Serve His Majesty Either as a Privateering or Pilate to His Majestys Ships. Now begs to Have a grant of So much of the Crown Lands as to your Exleny and Councell May Seem Meet For Him Self and Wife and Six Children Which he brought into this Contry in the year 1786 and hath Never taken But one Hundred acres of Land and your Petitioner as in Duty Bound Will Ever Pray [Signed] Frederick Williams” Read in the Executive Council on 14 Jul [1796]. Ordered recommended for 400 acres including family lands, if not before granted. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 47]

Certificate of Parshall Terry, J. P. attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Frederick Williams

“These May Certify that Frederick Williams Moved into this province With his Wife and Six Children in the year 1786 and that the Said Williams is an Honest industerous Man [Signed] Parshall Terry” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 47a]

Mentioned in the certificate of John Warren, J. P. dated at Fort Erie on 23 Apr 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Weaver

“Peter Weaver, came into this Province, with his Step Father Frederic Williams, in the year 1786, he has always behaved as an honest industrious young man. [Signed] John Warren J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 26b]

Mentioned in the notation of John Small, Clerk of the Executive Council dated on 10 Nov 1813 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Peter Weaver

“Fills up the returned Warrt from the Surr Genls office of Humberstone (Step Son of Frederick Williams) to Crowell Wilson Esqr Agent. [Initialled] J. S.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 26b]

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Frederick Williams

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner served His Majesty upwards of five years in the Royal Engineers last American War—That your Petitioner brought a wife and Seven Children previous to the year 1787 for whom he has never received any Lands – That your Petitioner has never recd but two hundred acres for himself – wherefore your Petitioner prays your Honor would be pleased to allow him the additional hundred acres as his military lands, and such quantity for his wife and Seven Children as your Honor may think proper – and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray” Frederick Williams made his mark. “Witness [Initialled] A McN” Received at the Executive Council Office on 25 Apr 1797 and read in Council the same day. Ordered 100 acres to complete the Petitioner’s Military and 400 acres for his family Lands if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 46]

Certificate of John Warren, J. P. dated at Fort Erie on 23 Apr 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Frederick Williams

“I certify that the bearer Frederic Williams (together with his family, as below mentioned) came into this Province in the year 1786, he has always behaved as an honest and industrious man—[Signed] John Warren J. P.” Appended list of family: “Fred Williams, Margaret (Wife), Rebecca, Elizabeth, Catherine, Peter, John, Mary, Samuel} Children” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 3, Petition Number 46b]

Williams, Elizabeth (Vanderlip)

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Elizabeth Vanderlip received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Mar 1797

“Humbly Sheweth—That your petitioner’s Father served His Majesty during the

American War faithfully and Honesty—That your petitioner’s Husband likewise served in Col Butlers Rangers – Therefore prays your Honor would be pleased to allow her such a grant of Lands (your petitioner having as yet never drawn any Lands, as is generally given to those of her description, and your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray—[Signed] Elizabeth Vanderlip” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Mar 1797 and read in Council on 21 Mar. Ordered 200 acres as the daughter of a Loyalist if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “U-V” Bundle 2, Petition Number 29]

Certificate of Ralfe Clench dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 10 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Elizabeth Vanderlip

“Wm Van Derlip is married to Elizabeth Williams, daughter to Frederick Williams who joined the Royal Standard before the year 1783 in America. Newark 10th March 97 [Signed] R Clench” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “U-V” Bundle 2, Petition Number 29b]

Williams, Mariane (Depue)

Upper Canada Land Petition of Mariane Williams, alias Depue of Barton dated on 8 Jan 1801

“Humbly sheweth That your Petitioner is the Daughter of John Depue late a Lieut in the Indian Department – a Loyalist U. E – is married and never received any Lands from the Crown – Your Petitioner therefore humbly prays your Excellency for a grant of 200 Acres, His Majestys Benevolence to persons of her Description, and your Petitioner as in Duty bound shall ever pray—” Marian Williams made her mark. “Signed before me this eight Day of January 1801 [Signed] Richard Beasley J. P.” Received at the Executive Council Office on 16 Feb 1801. Examined John Depue Sr. on the List. Read in the Executive Council on 24 Feb. Ordered 200 acres as daughter of a U. E. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 5, Petition Number 16]

Certificate of Richard Beasley, J. P. dated on 8 Jan 1801 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mariane Williams

“ I Richard Beasley one of His Majestys Justices of the Peace for the District of Niagara do certify that the Petitioner is the person she describes herself, and has not, to my knowledge or belief received any Lands, or order fo Lands, from the Crown in this Province [Signed] Richard Beasley J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 5, Petition Number 16a]

Certificate of Richard Beasley, J. P. dated on 8 Jan 1801 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Mariane Williams

“Personally appeared before me Richard Beasley one of his Majestys Justices of the Peace for the District of Niagara the within named Mariane Williams – and made oath that she is a married woman, & never received any Lands, or order for Lands of the Crown in this Province –Sworn before me this eight Day of January1801 [Signed] Richard Beasley J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 5, Petition Number 16b]

Williams, Rachel and Jane (Jones)

Mentioned in the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Jones late Serjeant 60th Regiment dated at Niagara on 20 Jan 1797

“Respectfully Shews That your petitioner has only received three hundred acres of Land, prays your Honor would be pleased to allow him his residue as a reduced Serjeant and such a further grant for his Mother in law, and wife as your Honor may think proper- the former being married to a Loyalist, which your petitioners wife is the issue—and your petitioner will as in duty bound ever pray [Signed] John Jones” Received at the Executive Council Office on 23 Jan 1797 and read in Council on 4 Feb 1797. Ordered 200 acres to petitioner’s wife the daughter of a Loyalist if not granted before and 200 acres in addition to the 300 he has received when he produces a certificate that he was regularly discharged from the 60th Regiment. Certificate produced. PR. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “I” “J” Bundle 2, Petition Number 29c]

Certificate of Peter Ball, J. P. dated at Niagara on 22 Mar 1796 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of John Jones

“I do hereby Certify that Rachel Williams & her Daughter Jane (now Wife of John Jones), came from the Susquehanah (then Province of Pensylvania) to Niagara in the year 1778 among a Number of other Loyalists who had to leave that place on account of their attachment to the Royal Cause [Signed] P. Ball J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “I” “J” Bundle 2, Petition Number 29b]

Williams, Rachael (Vanderlip)

Undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Rachael Williams received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Mar 1797

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner came into this Province in the year 1778 and brought three Children with her – That your Petitioner was then married to Fredk Vanderlip who Served in Colonel Butlers Rangers, but from his bad state of health was discharged previous to the conclusion of the war – Your petitioner trusts your Honor will be pleased to consider her, and allow her, & children such a grant of His Majesty’s lands as your Honor may think proper & your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] Rachael Williams” Received at the Executive Council Office on 20 Mar 1797 and read in Council on 21 Mar. Ordered 200 acres family lands if not granted before. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 111]

Certificate of Peter Ball, J. P. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 15 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Rachael Williams

“I do hereby Certify that Rachael Williams came to Niagara in the year 1778 with three children [Signed] P. Ball J. P.” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 111b]

Williams, John

Upper Canada Land Petition of John Williams of the Township of Thorold dated at Niagara on 1 Sep 1796

“Respectfully shews – That your Petitioner is a Loyalist and has suffered greatly in his property, on account of his principles – That he has resided in this Province many years- but never received any Certificate for Lands – prays your Honor would be pleased to grant him Lots No 201 & 202 in the Township of Thorold, on which he has made improvement, and dwells – and Your Petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray—” [Unsigned] Added note of Thomas Ridout, N. P.: I do hereby certify that T Silverthorne applied to me for the above petition in behalf of John Williams – [Signed] T Ridout N. P.” Received at the Executive Council Office on 2 Oct 1796. Ordered the prayer of petition granted and referred to the Surveyor General. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 17]

Williams, ________ (Sypes)

Mentioned in the undated Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Sypes [signed Sipes] received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Apr 1797

“Humbly Sheweth—That your Petitioner joined Col Butler’s Rangers in the year 1778, and Continued in them till the end of the War, when he was reduced with said Corps—That your Petitioner married the Daughter of Fredk Williams, who joined the Royal Standard previous to the Year 1783 and had one Child before the Year 1789—Wherefore Your Petitioner prays that your Honor would be pleased to allow him his Military lands, likewise such grant for his wife the daughter of a Loyalist, and for his Child as your Honor in your wisdom may Conceive proper – your Petitioner never having received any lands Either for himself, wife, or family – and your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray [Signed] Jacob Sipes” Received at the Executive Council Office on 18 Apr 1797 and read the same day. Ordered that No. 9 in the 3rd Concession of Bertie be confirmed to the Petitioner and ordered 200 acres in addition as military land – and 100 acres as family lands if not granted before. Also ordered 200 acres to the Petitioners wife the daughter of Frederick Williams U. E. Loyalist. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 241]

Certificate of Robert Kerr, J. P. dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 14 Apr 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Sypes

“I do hereby certify that the bearer Jacob Sypes served his Majesty six years in the Corps of Rangers commanded by Lt Col. Butler: and is an Honest industrious Settler. [Signed] Robert Kerr J. P. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 241b]

Certificate of Ralfe Clench dated at Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake) on 14 Apr 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Jacob Sypes

“Jacob Sipes served as a Private Soldier in Butlers Rangers during the late American War and has ever since been in the Province is married to the daughter of Frederick Williams who satisfied the Justices in Sessions that he joined the Royal Standard in America &c. before the year 1783 Newark 14th April 97 [Signed] Ralfe Clench” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “S” Bundle 3, Petition Number 241d]

Willis, Benjamin

Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Willis dated on 14 Feb 1797

“Humbly Sheweth That your Petitioner being a Liveer in his Majesty’s Province these four years Past and not having Drawn any land which is usually granted to his Loyalist and as he is wishfull to become a Settler in the aforesaid Province Humbly Prays his Honour to grant him such a Premium of Land as he in his Wisdome may Seem meet and your Petitioner Bound will ever Pray [Signed] Benja Willis” Received at the Executive Council Office on 25 Mar 1797 and read in Council on 28 Mar 1797. Ordered recommended for 200 acres as a settler. [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 96]

Certificate of Nathaniel Pettit dated at 40 Mile Pond (Grimsby) on 22 Mar 1797 attached to the Upper Canada Land Petition of Benjamin Willis

“I Do herby Certifie that the barer Benjamin Willits [sic] came into this province in the year 1792 and Durein the Time he hath been here he behaved himself as an Industress honest Sober young man and that [he] apered before me this Day and made the oth of alegence and the […..] as by law Directed Certified by [Signed] Nathl Pettit” [Upper Canada Land Petitions LAC “W” Bundle 2, Petition Number 96b]