GREGOR McKINNON. Thomas A. Murray 5MAR2010

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1 GREGOR McKINNON Thomas A. Murray 5MAR2010 In attempting to compose a work on the family of Gregor McKinnon, some reliance is given to prior work. However, in considering the 1851 census of Glenelg Parish, Northumberland Co., New Brunswick, in which Gregor s son, Hugh, and Hugh s family appear; it is clear that daughters, Sarah and Bona McKinnon have been left out of some previous compilations. In addition, in the same census, Jane McKinnon b. ca appears with her McDonald cousins. The nature of her relationship, probably through her mother, is not clear. (I have managed to clarify it below.) It is reasonable to believe that, until 1851, the only McKinnon family in Glenelg Parish was that of Gregor; and since, in 1851, only his son, Hugh, is noticeably there, Jane appears to be another d/o Hugh missed by previous searchers. The conclusion, then, is that works on this McKinnon family so far are based on limited material. The 1851, 1861, 1871, 1881, 1890, 1901 and 1911 census returns are usually available, certainly on microfilm if not on-line, and have been for decades. It is not my purpose to fill in missing information by poring over microfilms of marriage records, probate records, etc. This may seem hypocritical, but the McKinnon s, while my ancestors, are not my major field of genealogical study. I can offer my assurance that, where my main areas of interest lie, I have spent considerable time and effort; and continue to do so. The objective here is simply to build a genealogical structure based on what is readily available. It is necessary, then, to point out that in following the research and conclusions of others, I am necessarily replicating unreliable and unsubstantiated work. To the extent that material (such as the 1851 census) is available on-line, I do try to verify what is given. On the other hand, as this is essentially a work for my own information, I do not meticulously note sources. The style I use is indicative of where the information comes from; at least to me. Consider person [226A], Margaret Fraser Leggat. MARGARET ( MAGGIE ) FRASER LEGGATT (b. 15APR1874, d. 1955, bur. Richibucto Protestant Cem, Richibucto, Kent Co., NB), d/o C. Alexander and Catherine (Gaffney) Leggatt (Legatt/Leggett.) Since I know where she is buried, I have seen a transcription of her headstone inscription; thus I know the year, but not the date, of her death. Since I have the date of her (post 1900) marriage, I have seen the relevant marriage register on microfilm. The 1901 census gives her birth-date (which may or may not be accurate) and the forename of her mother. Other cemetery inscriptions give her father. The 1871 and 1881 census returns put her parents together. A death notice of a sister gives her father s first initial; and a notice of a visit of her unmarried sister from Calais, ME gives the mother s maiden name. Also, Mary Gaffney, Catherine s sister, is with them in It is the spelling of the surnames that creates the greatest problem. That C. Alexander Leggatt was the s/o James and Ellen Leggatt, originally from Scotland by way of the Miramichi, is extraneous. That Alexander and Catherine Leggett live next door (i.e., in the next, listed household) to Thomas and Margueret [31] Curren in the 1871 census may be relevant. In short, the information, although in fragments, is more often available than not. Of the Black River area, Donald J. Edge (31MAR2003) wrote a study on the place and the origin of its name. In part, he wrote: There are four rivers named Black River in New Brunswick, and only one is in Glenelg and Hardwicke Parishes. This Black River empties into the Bay du Vin, an extension of the Miramichi Bay. Bay du Vin means bay of wine, but there are no wine grapes in that region, and it is more likely that the name was originally Baie des Ventes, bay of the winds. The river originates in a few small streams in a peat bed approximately ten miles south of Miramichi, and flows about twelve miles northeast to its mouth in Bay du Vin; the river is tidal from a bit west of where it crosses Highway 117, where when I was young there was a covered bridge where the youngsters would gather and I had to walk three miles to get there. A hundred yards or so west of the bridge was my grandfather's abandoned boathouse where my sister and I would go swimming with my cousins, Francis and Margaret MacNaughton, Sidney MacNaughton, and

2 the MacKay girls. Lucky Francie and Margie lived only a few hundred yards from that bridge. The name Black River also refers to the rural neighborhood that borders the river from west of Highway 11 on into Hardwicke Parish. This is the neighborhood MacNaughton descendants refer to as down home. New Brunswick is part of the Appalachian Chain extending from Newfoundland to Alabama. Our Black River (the bridge) is located at N W ; head of the river is approximately N , W , and mouth of the river is at N , W If you have access to Canadian Government Topographic maps, you'll find Black River on maps 21P/O3 Chatham and 21I/14 Kouchibouguac, and in the, "New Brunswick Atlas", pages 36 and 43. GREGOR McKINNON Sergeant GREGOR McKINNON b. Isle of Skye , d. Glenelg Parish, Northumberland Co., NB DEC1837, m. 1st ; m. 2nd Glenelg Parish, Northumberland Co., NB 1799 JANE/JEAN? (PEARSON?) SHARP (b. ca , d. Bay du Vin, Hardwicke Parish, Northumberland Co., NB 18APR1856, aet. 85 years), widow of William Sharp of the Queen s Rangers. A strange death notice extracted from the Chatham, The Gleaner and Northumberland Schediasma, 5DEC1837 is given as: d. Napan (Northumberland Co.), 1st December, Robert DICK, age d. At his residence, Glenelg (Northumberland Co.), Gregory MCKINNON, native of Isle of Skye. Since the reference given is to entry 681, of Vol. 7., of Daniel F. Johnson s original series of vital statistics extracted from New Brunswick newspaper; I assume that 689 refers to item 689 in the same volume, and that the entry for Robert Dick has no application. Thus, the best that can be inferred is that Gregory McKinnon d. in Glenelg, Parish in DEC1837. Jane was granted a pension after her second husband's death as a widow of a soldier who fought in the Revolution, ("Copy of the Affidavit of Jane McKinnon Widow of Soldier After Revolutionary War, 16 July 1840".) In 1843 she is given as age 73 years. The IGI gives Gregor s wife as Jane Martin; m. 1st William Sharp (d ) Some notes, from posting at genealogical boards, are: He is listed on a Muster Roll of a Detachment of the North Carolina Volunteers, doing duty with the New York Volunteers, under the Command of Lieut. Colonel George Turnbull, from 25th April to 24th June 1783 ; and a similar roll for 25th June to 24th August Source: National Archives of Canada, Chipman Papers, MG 23, D 1, Series I, Volume 26, Pages 272 & 273. He is also listed in a Muster Roll of a Detached Corps under the Charge of Lieut. DeBeck New York Volunteers Lancaster [Prison] 24 April This lists him as being taken prisoner at Yorktown, 19 October Source: Ibid, Volume 27, Page 333. Possibly in Bryan's North Carolina Volunteers, or a similar independent company. Gregor lived in Robeson Co., North Carolina, was a sergeant in the North Carolina Volunteers during the American Revolution. (There are several other early settlers in Glenelg in the same position including my ancestor John MacLeod, Murdoch Macleod, John Maclean, and Neil McGraw.) He settled on property in the Keswick area, Black River (Lot 26, including Middle Island, in same grant as Charlotte Taylor: Daniel Micheau' map of 1785) and Bayside (now owned by Willistons or was.) Possibly also the Gregor McKinnon granted Lot 452 in Carleton (Saint John) 18MAY1785. Two of the sons located at Richibucto, and one on the SW Miramichi. In SEP1785 a number of members of the New York Volunteers received land in York Co., NB, in a document called, "A Roll of the Present State of the Late New York Volunteers, together with the Respective Family's who have obtained Lands on the Madam [Keswick] --- Agreeable to an Order of Survey - Annexed --- Sept. 1784". This roll includes:

3 A Detachment of the late North Carolans Obtained Land with the New York Volunteers... Viz... Lieut Thomas Jones W S Sergeant Grigor McKennen > <200 Private Daniel McGraw > <100 Corporal William Hamlen > Private Hinley McCaskil > " Thomas Fish > W <150 " Angus McLeod > <100 " Daniel McLeod > <100 " Philip Henry > " Charles Meridith > " Willm. Whitworth > " Benjm. Darkes > " Moses Stern > " Michael Griffen " Donald Ross Indicating that Gregor did not have a wife or children with him, and that he, Angus and Daniel McLeod, Daniel McGraw and Donald Ross likely knew each other well, and likely went to the Miramichi together. In the New York Volunteers, and included in this grant, was Corporal Joseph Haines who, in later years, moved to Richibucto, Kent Co., NB. At least two of Joseph's descendants married into Gregor's family there; one of these marriages making both Gregor and Joseph my ancestors. From G. John Garner: Gregor McKinnon b. Isle of Skye , d. Glenelg Parish, Northumberland Co., NB 1837, m. 1st ; m. 2nd Glenelg Parish, Northumberland Co., NB 1799 Jane/Jean (Pearson?) Sharp (b. ca. 1770, d. 18APR1856, aet. 88 years), widow of William Sharp of the Queen's Rangers. Jane was granted a pension after her second husband's death as a widow of a soldier who fought in the Revolution, ("Copy of the Affidavit of Jane McKinnon Widow of Soldier After Revolutionary War, 16 July 1840".) Gregor is listed on a "Muster Roll of a Detachment of the North Carolina Volunteers, doing duty with the New York Volunteers, under the Command of Lieut. Colonel George Turnbull, from 25th April to 24th June 1783" and a similar roll for 25th June to 24th August Source: National Archives of Canada, Chipman Papers, MG 23, D 1, Series I, Volume 26, Pages 272 & 273. He is also listed in a "Muster Roll of a Detached Corps under the Charge of Lieut. DeBeck New York Volunteers Lancaster [Prison] 24 April 1782." This lists him as being taken prisoner at Yorktown, 19 October Source: Ibid, Volume 27, Page 333. Possibly in Bryan's North Carolina Volunteers, or a similar independent company. Gregor lived in Robeson Co., North Carolina, was a sergeant in the North Carolina Volunteers during the American Revolution. (There are several other early settlers in Glenelg in the same position including my ancestor John MacLeod, Murdoch Macleod, John Maclean, and Neil McGraw.) He settled on property in the Keswick area, Black River (Lot 26, including Middle Island, in same grant as Charlotte Taylor: Daniel Micheau map of 1785) and Bayside (now owned by Willistons or was.) Possibly also the Gregor McKinnon granted Lot 452 in Carleton (Saint John) 18MAY The force was crushed as history records at Moore's Creek Bridge in February of 1776, and McDONALD and scores of officers were captured. This put an end to the North Carolina Provincials, except for a number of officers who remained as prisoners of war until as late as January of More North Carolina refugees had joined the army in Georgia. On 22 February 1779 Lt.

4 Col. CAMPBELL organized these people into a corps of two companies, one of foot, and one of horse, by the name of "Royal Volunteers of North Carolina," commanded by Lt. Col. John MOORE. At some point between February and October of 1779 the corps, by now known as the Royal North Carolina Regiment, consisted of two battalions. John HAMILTON was lieutenant colonel of one or both of them, but it's unknown what John MOORE was doing. In any case, the corps was consolidated into one battalion between the time of the Siege of Savannah and the Siege of Charlestown. In a bit of bad timing, HAMILTON and his servant were taken prisoner by the Rebels scouting Charlestown during the siege. The Royal North Carolina Regiment was a part of the army that advanced to the siege from Georgia under the command of General PATERSON. The Royal North Carolina Regiment served in several bloody encounters, most notably Hanging Rock and the Battle of Camden. In 1781 they were a part of CORNWALLIS army that entered North Carolina, attracting more recruits to the unit. By this time the corps consisted of seven companies (including a light infantry company), with an eighth being raised later on the march to Virginia. In 1780 another body of North Carolina Loyalists made their way to the British, who were by this time in neighboring South Carolina. Over 300 of them were formed into a body and commanded by Colonel Samuel BRYAN. BRYAN had formerly been an officer in the North Carolina Provincials. This corps would be known by the name of North Carolina Volunteers. This corps however was not a Provincial regiment, as was the Royal North Carolina Regiment. This unit can best be described as an embodied militia regiment. They mostly served in South Carolina, fighting alongside the RNCR at Hanging Rock and Camden. One or two companies of them under Captain HUNTER likewise accompanied CORNWALLIS to Virginia and surrendered at Yorktown. This unit was not uniformed or provided for as Provincials were. They seem to have been disbanded in 1782 at or near Charlestown. The above notes are from John Garner and Linda McKinnon. (John Garner, Ancestry.com, Northumberland Co. board, 16FEB2002; Linda, 1FEB2003.) In spite of my prefacing condemnation of early researchers, John Garner is a thorough and knowledgeable genealogist who has demonstrated his skill and knowledge in several instances. Linda McKinnon has shown a remarkable tenacity. The web site noted is, An Introduction to North Carolina Loyalist Units, Nan Cole and Todd Braisted, 12JAN2000, part of, The On-line Institute For Advanced Loyalist Studies. I have quoted it at length as the events appear to have influenced not only the McKinnon s, but many of their later neighbours and kindred. Gregor McKinnon s movements amongst various Loyalist units may appear puzzling; but John Garner and I have noticed several instances; particularly dealing with Scots; both pre-revolutionary settlers and Scottish Regiments brought into the American Revolution. Essentially, there were three types of Scottish settlers before the Revolution: soldiers disbanded after the Seven Years War, transportees after the Risings of 1715 and 1745 and those seeking religious (Roman Catholics) freedom or land of their own. Thus, when the Scottish Regiments arrived in the Revolution, they found not only countrymen but kinsmen. It seems clear that they conversed; whether through gossip, letters or some other medium is not clear. It is clear that they discussed their futures, organized in small groups and, having settled, probably had much to do with the influx of Scottish Settlers in the early 1800 s. Regular Scottish units very likely reinforced themselves with the impromptu Scottish irregulars; which the North Carolina Volunteers seem to have been. The Black Watch, McDonnell s seem to have recruited from these; and, as it appears, so did other Loyalist forces such as the New York Volunteers. There were a number of Scottish settlers in upstate New York, and the Queen s Rangers had a kilted, Highland company. An example of the connections between the Queens Rangers and North Carolina Loyalists is evidenced by the career of Capt. Donald McAlpine. McAlpine was in the 78th Highlanders in the Seven Year's War, raised 85 volunteers for the New Hampshire Volunteers (disbanded MAY1777) which was absorbed into the Queen's Rangers, replaced John Eagles as a captain, resigned 19SEP1777 and became a captain in the South Carolina Rangers later absorbed into the North Carolina Regiment, where he was a lieutenant.

5 That the Queens Rangers and the Maryland Loyalists knew of each other is indicated in the report of the commanding officer of the Rangers, Lt. Col. J. Graves Simcoe, to Evan Nepean, Undersecretary of State, MAR1783. Simcoe describes the Maryland Loyalists as looking to him for assistance, and of expressing their high regard of the Queen s Rangers and their commander. This premise is difficult to demonstrate, let alone explain, but it seems that Gregor McKinnon, in spite of early indications (i.e., he may have been granted land in the Keswick area, possibly with members of the NYV, but it is questionable as to whether he ever settled there); it seems that he joined with other Scots, both Loyalists and regular army, in settling on the Miramichi River. Since some of these Scots were connected with the Queen s Rangers; it is not that surprising that he would marry a widow from that unit. GREGOR MCKINNON of Skye, NC, NB by Linda McKinnon 5/7/101 (5JUL or 7MAY2001?) Gregor McKinnon came from Isle of Skye to North Carolina, fought in Revolutionary War as a Loyalist then to New Brunswick in Looking for any connections or info especially from North Carolina or Scotland. Have info on his children but not complete. (part of, "Mutch Genealogy".) The following is an message from Todd W. Braisted: Hello Bill I m afraid there is very little to be found on your ancestor. He is listed on a Muster Roll of a Detachment of the North Carolina Volunteers, doing duty with the New York Volunteers, under the Command of Lieut. Colonel George Turnbull, from 25th April to 24th June 1783 and a similar roll for 25th June to 24th August Source: National Archives of Canada, Chipman Papers, MG 23, D 1, Series I, Volume 26, Pages 272 & 273. He is also listed in a Muster Roll of a Detached Corps under the Charge of Lieut. DeBeck New York Volunteers Lancaster [Prison] 24 April This lists him as being taken prisoner at Yorktown, 19 October Source: Ibid, Volume 27, Page 333. These lists are somewhat misleading though by their names. The men listed on the above (as far as I have checked) are a mixture of men from the Royal North Carolina Regiment and others who do not appear on their rolls. I can only assume that these men are from Bryan s North Carolina Volunteers of some other Independent Company. The problem with the name North Carolina Volunteers is that it was used loosely to describe the Royal North Carolina Regiment and God knows who else. That's why I always look at who they are talking about to figure out which corps they actually mean. It gets very confusing, but they didn't have us in mind I'm afraid when they wrote these things down! It would look though as if your man was one of Bryan s. At least we know he was indeed taken prisoner at Yorktown with Cornwallis and apparently exchanged in early 1783, along with the rest of the POW s. 'm afraid I have no further on him. Regards, Todd W. Braisted Lt. Col. Turnbull's company is also listed at: as, "New York Volunteers Turnbull's Coy.: Muster Roll of Lieut. Colonel George Turnbull's Company of New York Volunteers, Savannah in Georgia 29th November 1779"; with reference to, "National Archives of Canada, RG 8, "C" Series, Volume 1874, page 49". First of all, this partially explains why North Carolina Loyalists would be attached to the New York Volunteers. Being in Savannah, Georgia, having persons generally acquainted with the region would be useful, and attaching elements of the NC Loyalists to a larger unit would mean the NYV as one of the more available regiments. A second element of interest is that, amongst several persons identifiable as being from Westchester Co., NY, there is Joseph 'Hains', the Corporal Joseph Haines who with Gregor is granted land in York Co, NB and whose

6 descendants intermarry with Gregor's in Richibucto, Kent Co., NB eventually resulting in my existence. I find it peculiar that two of my ancestors, from fairly diverse geographical and cultural backgrounds should be obviously acquainted, separate only to have later generations meet without knowing on the previous connection. Gregor McKinnon appears to have petitioned for land in Saint John Co., NB in This was with many others, and, while many were Scottish, many were also Loyalist names from New York. However, Daniel Micheaus plan of lots on the Miramichi River (with the south side likely being around Black River, Glenelg Parish, Northumberland Co., NB) made 1785 had Gregor on the south side in Lot 26. If Gregor ever went to York Co., NB, especially the Keswick area, he was not long there. Gregor may have chosen Lot 26 as Middle Island fronted it and was included in the lot. Such islands were often useful as pasturage for cattle, not needing fencing. This also appears to be somewhat below Beaubair s Island and the extent of Davidson s grant. Further downstream, on the same side, is Charlotte Taylor s (the Widow Blake) grants of Lots 89 and 9, with Black Brook in Lots 6 and 7; and just across the Miramichi from Black Brook is the mouth of Bartibog River. As near as I can figure, Charlotte lived about where Loggieville is; and Middle Island has a bridge to it off of Water St. in what is now the City of Miramichi, and about where Chatham was. By 1787, Gregor was petitioning in Northumberland Co., NB with John Noble. In 1803, he is included amongst several Bay du Vin inhabitants. One of these was Angus McDonald, presumably the forebear of some of the McDonald s in the area. Another petition was in 1814, with a large number of others identifiable as residents of Glenelg Parish, Northumberland Co., NB. These included Thomas Sharp; possibly a stepson? JOHN NOBLE b. ca. 1757, d Maryland Loyalists John Noble also petitioned in Northumberland Co., in This appears to be one of William Davidson s attempts to keep portions of the large grants that were gradually being escheated from him, and included many names on the Miramichi. In 1787 he petitioned alone. In 1798, a petitioned with some of the Horton s, and others, suggests he was still in Glenelg Parish. Petitions in later years, by such as Jonathan and Robert Noble, suggests he left family. In 1784, John Noble had a 200 acre grant in Maugerville, Sunbury Co., NB; which he may not have taken up. Also, in 1784, a town lot in Parr Town, Saint John Co.; 150 acres on the Passamaquoddy River, a three-quarter acre garden lot on the St. Croix River (both in Charlotte Co., NB.) This appears to be another Loyalist, also John Noble, who m. Jemima Purdy. John Noble was granted 316 acres in Newcastle Parish, Northumberland Co., NB in This latter may be a son, as a John Noble, Jr. was granted 170 acres in Newcastle Parish in Thus, John Noble seems much engaged in trying to get as much free land of agricultural use (with such timber as might make a quick profit); but was reluctant to settle permanently too quickly. His petitioned with Gregor McKinnon may have been speculatory in nature; but suggests Gregor s introduction to the Miramichi. John Noble b. ca. 1757, d age 89 years. He had been born in Virginia, and came to the Miramichi after the American Revolution. While he may have been from Virginia, he served in the Maryland Loyalists from 1778, under Col. James Chambers (Chalmers), in Capt. Caleb Jones' company. He, together with Jane McKinnon, Angus McDonald Elizabeth Robertson received a pension for his military services; showing he was likely a neighbour of Jane and Angus; and probably acquainted with Elizabeth s husband, Duncan Robertson. He was, however, by the time he was receiving this pension in Chatham Parish, Northumberland Co., NB; age 82 years in 1839 when he first petitioned for it; and age 85 in He declared himself indigent, and had probably moved to be with his son, also John, who appears to have predeceased him by some time (before 1832.) One can see how John Noble and Gregor McKinnon might have had much in common; both Loyalists in irregular units from the South with somewhat less than prestigious histories (smallpox and defeat by the Spanish in Florida for John) early on. Both captured, both in units sent to New York presumably attached to or reinforcing larger units. Even going to NB in 1783, John s luck was bad, and he seems to be one of those who escaped when the ship, Martha, transporting the Maryland Loyalists to NB was wrecked between the Seal Islands and Cape Sable of off Nova Scotia in late SEP of 174 persons were rescued and taken to Saint John. In the same fleet were elements of the Queen s Rangers, apparently landing at Saint John 27SEP1783. A little younger than Gregor, John and Gregor may have

7 been part of what appears to be a larger group, largely Scottish, many members of the Queen s Rangers, who sought new homes. ANGUS McDONALD b. ca d age 95 years (or b. ca. 1740?, d. 1846? age 106 years) Queen s Ranger s 42nd Royal Highland (Black Watch) Regiment? The next name associated with Gregor McKinnon is Angus McDonald. I note this as, in the 1851 census of Glenelg Parish, Jane McKinnon b. ca is described as a cousin of John (b. ca. 1814) and Margaret (b. ca. 1823) McDonald. Assuming Jane was a granddaughter of Gregor McKinnon, the suggestion that first leaps to mind is that a daughter of Gregor McKinnon married a McDonald. According to present-day compilations, this does not appear to be probable. Assuming Jane McKinnon to be a d/o Hugh and Jane (Forsyth) McKinnon, perhaps the connection is with Jane s assumed mother. Not only is the latter conclusion accurate, but it establishes Jane McKinnon as almost certainly the d/o Hugh and Jane (Forsyth) McKinnon; but also substantiates Jane Forsyth as a d/o Robert and Jane (Martin) McKinnon. To reach this conclusion, I attempted the theory of a McDonald kinship at first. Anyone familiar with McDonald Genealogy in Glenelg Parish, Northumberland Co., or anywhere, will realize the perils. Since these difficulties are of little moment here, I will condense my findings to say something of Angus McDonald, obviously well-acquainted with Gregor McKinnon, sharing a very similar history beyond that of being neighbours, and both examples of a larger, Scottish system of communications. Angus McDonald was granted 213 acres in Newcastle Parish, Northumberland Co., NB 7MAR1798. Gregor McKinnon was also a grantee of 204 acres. The other grantors suggest this was actually Glenelg Parish, but it is difficult to be certain. A grant in Glenelg Parish, Northumberland Co., NB dated 28OCT1816 includes: CAMPBELL, Dungald 380 acres MCDONALD, Angus 170 acres MCDONALD, Ronald 230 acres MCGRAW, Neil 500 acres MCKINNON, Gregor 2095 acres MCRAE, Farquhar 175 acres MORRISON, Findley 185 acres ROSS, Donald 215 acres It is unlikely that Gregor McKinnon was granted 2,095 acres, but had the remainder after the others had their share; about 240 acres. It is probable that the large number was assigned to Gregor as he had taken a leading role in petitioning for the land. Possibly the 1814 petition noted above. At least it is clear that Angus McDonald and Alexander McDonald were neighbours with whom Gregor McKinnon was associated. Angus is also given as having been in the Queen s Ranger s (as was Jane s first husband.) Alexander McDonald is also said to have been in the Queen s Rangers, and may have had a wife, Mary (b. ca. b. ca. 1768, age 75 in 1843.) There was an Alexander McDonald in the Highland Company, John MacKay, captain, of the Queen s American Rangers, 25DEC FEB1780. As near as I can tell, MacKay s company of a few more than a score enlisted men, was an elite company of an elite corps, preceding the light and grenadier companies; attached to the headquarters and commanding officers of the Queen s Rangers. Included amongst them were: Angus MacDonald, Lauchlan MacKinnon, Alex. MacDonald, Murdock MacLeod, Angus MacDonald, Alex. Mackinnon. There was also an Alexander McDonald in the North Carolina Highlanders in Definitely not the same Alexander, but one begins, at this point, to suspect more than coincidence. The Major Alexander McDonald of the North Carolina Highlanders may well be the Major Alexander Macdonald, of Cuidrach, later of the 84th Royal Highland Emigrant Regiment whose raising Flora Macdonald and her husband had much to do with; and which was raised from Highlanders in North Carolina. Flora s son, Charles Macdonald, was also a captain in the Queen s Ranger s. Charles appears to have died as a young man, and was mourned by all his kin including Lord Macdonald who regarded him as the most finished

8 gentleman of his family and name. A connection to the Macdonald s-mcdonald s was a connection to all Scotsmen active in the American Revolution. In 1839, when Angus first petitioned for the pension for soldiers of the American Revolution, he was a resident of Bay du Vin, Glenelg Parish, Northumberland Co., NB, and was age 95 years (b. ca ) He was the same in Capt. McKay s company, and was discharged in Saint John in He made his mark, unusual for a Scot. The Justice-of-the-Peace taking the deposition was John MacDonald. Another deponent who appeared before John MacDonald in 1839 was Isabella McInnis, widow of Angus McInnis, late of the 76th (MacDonald s) Regiment. The 76th was likely raise by the same Lord Macdonald who mourned the death of Capt. Charles Macdonald, and also included: Corporal Donald McInnis, Private Angus McDonald, Private James Ross and Private Murdock McLeod. Angus wife, Mary, also received a military pension, as was age 75 years in 1843 (b. ca ) Her husband is given in one disbursement as having served in the Queen s Rangers. Angus, himself, received the 1841 disbursement, so appears to have d. ca Mary seems to have received disbursements as late as Mary s affidavit, in 1843, states she was age 75 years, and married Angus in Saint John in She also states that Angus was attached to the Queen s Rangers; suggesting a prior unit. Angus died in Glenelg Parish in Mary d. Glenelg Parish 28MAY1862, and 3JAN1863, Donald McDonald petitioned for the balance of her pension. This petition claims that Angus McDonald had served in the 42 Regiment, the Black Watch. It appears that he was attached from the 42nd to the Queen s Rangers; which seems most unusual. The petition states that Angus died 15 years ago (ca. 1847) at the age of 106 years (b. ca ) It is almost as if Donald speaks of another Angus, but may be simply stretching to make his sums come out right. He states that he was the eldest son of Angus and Mary, and that she had lived with him after his father died. Also intriguing is that Donald signed his name. It seems as if neither of his parents could do so, although infirmity may have prevented them. An attempt to discover an early connection between the families of Angus McDonald and Gregor McKinnon found nothing direct. More on this is mentioned at Jane McKinnon b. ca THOMAS SHARP Since Gregor McKinnon is sad to have married as his 2nd wife, Jane (Pearson) Sharp, it may be worthwhile examining Thomas Sharp who appears in a land petition with Gregor in William Sharp is listed as a private in Capt. Thomas Ivy Cook s company of the Queen s Rangers; and was likely one of those who arrived at Saint John 27SEP1783. I believe Capt. Cook was detached from the 17th Light Dragoons; therefore William Sharp was likely a member of the cavalry units of the Rangers. Simcoe once noted that he had about 70 mounted troopers who could move quickly. It may be that William Sharp was also originally of the 17th. For example, a victualling lists of detachments in New York 29APR1781 lists 47 men and 82 women, but no children. It is doubtful if the whole regiment consisted of only 47 men; so this must be a detachment with which the women stayed. The Black Watch, at the same time, had 451 men, 78 women and 68 children. The 76th had 384 men, 53 women and 34 children. The Death or Glory Boys became, in 1822, the 17th Light Lancers; part of the infamous Light Brigade in the poem. That William Sharp did, as did so many others, settle in Queensbury Parish (named after the Rangers) in York Co. suggests he took up with others attracted by word-of-mouth to the Miramichi. Some of these may have been Scots in the Queen s Rangers (Angus McDonald, Murdock McLeod), probably in touch with Scots (Duncan Robertson) of the Black Watch first settled on the Nashwaak River, also in York Co., NB. Certainly, the route from Queensbury Parish to the Miramichi was up the Nashwaak. As early as 1785 a William Sharp petitioned for land in Northumberland Co., NB with others, including Murdock McLeod and Alexander McDonald; all as members of the Queens Rangers. One motive would be dissatisfaction with land allotted in York Co., NB; but another may have been active recruitment by or on behalf of William Davidson. Davidson had been granted large tracts of land on the Miramichi prior to 1783 on the understanding that he would settle a certain number of persons. In particular, he approached fellow Scots, and the Wishart s noted that they had written to the folks at home many times in this endeavour. Thus, he not only approached people personally, but encouraged others to pass on the word. After 1783, not having met his commitments regarding settlers, much of his land was escheated, and much of the rest in danger of being escheated. It can be shown, for example, that he managed to

9 recruit pre-loyalists from Maugerville unhappy with the Loyalist influx. It would be absurd for him not to approach Scots. Scots in the Scottish regiments, Scots from settlements in New York and North Carolina and Scots from the wave of immigration just beginning due to the Clearances. They did not even have to be Scots. It is possible that William Sharp and Gregor McKinnon were amongst those invited, even begged, to petition for grants on the Miramichi so that Davidson could attract others and fill his quotas. Another petition William Sharp made was in Northumberland Co., NB with Alexander McMillen. From 1785 to 1820, the name, William Sharp, appears on other petitions, but these, especially in Kings Co., NB, are apparently another of that name. In 1790, William Sharpe, again with member of the Queens Rangers, petitions in Northumberland Co. Thomas Sharp first appears as a petitioner in Northumberland Co., NB in 1809 with John Sharp. The time is William and Jane Sharp had children, one might suppose that, 16 years after their arrival in NB, they would be coming of age. As mentioned above, Thomas Sharp was also a petitioner in 1814, with many others, including Gregor McKinnon, Alexander McDonald, Taylor s, Williston, Angus McInnis, etc.; which places him in Glenelg Parish, Northumberland Co., NB. William Sharp received a grant on the Miramichi River 13DEC1793 of 210 acres. Amongst other grantees were James and William Gordon. In later years. the Gordon s appear to be in Newcastle Parish. Thomas Sharp received 300 acres (apparently in Glenelg Parish) 17DEC1814. The size of the grant suggests he was at least married at the time. As there were no Sharp s/sharpe s in Glenelg Parish in the 1851 census, it seems that Thomas and John Sharp lived elsewhere or moved. The only persons indicated by the directories of 1865, 1867 and 1871 in Northumberland Co. is Mrs. Annie Sharp, a grocer, widow of William Sharp, in Chatham. Thomas Sharp is generally assumed to be William s son; a not unreasonable theory. If his mother was b. ca. 1771, then he was likely b. ca In 1809, he would have been about years of age. If John was a brother; probably younger, he would have been about 16 years of age. 16 would seem the minimal age before one might petition for land. William Sharp appears to have been living at least until about When Thomas received 300 acres in 1814, he would likely have been about 24 years of age, and seems to have married. After that, he seems to have left Northumberland Co., if not New Brunswick. OTHER McKINNON S Another difficulty in the genealogy of the family of Gregor McKinnon is that, while a viable assumption can be made that early McKinnon s in Glenelg Parish were Gregor s family, there is the question of Samuel McKinnon of Glenelg Parish, administration of whose estate was granted 29MAY1826 to James Murchy and John Cameron. While one might suspect that Samuel was a s/o Gregor, then one might also expect administration of his estate to have been assigned to a relative. Also, if a s/o Gregor, then Samuel appears to have been old enough to have acquired an estate; presumably including land. Therefore he was b. before 1806; possibly well before as he petitions for land as early as Possibly he was even married. There is no sign of a family in the 1851 census. In Northumberland Co., NB in 1801, Alexander McKinnon and Donald Ross petitioned for land. An Alexander McKinnon also petitions alone in As far as I can see, Donald Ross is likely associated with the Donald Ross of the 42nd Regiment. He was involved in several petitions in Northumberland Co.; often with names of persons with whom Gregor might be associated with. In 1816, Donald Ross was a grantee along with Gregor McKinnon. Donald Ross would seem to be one of the Black Watch granted small lots at Taymouth in York Co., NB in 1787, and one of those on the Miramichi by 1791; in other words, one of the larger group of Scots who seemed to work together in smaller or larger groups to find suitable land. If, as it appears, Donald Ross knew Gregor McKinnon, cannot the same be said of Alexander McKinnon? Donald Ross is granted land in Newcastle Parish by 1810 and 1812, but by 1816 he is given 215 acres in Glenelg Parish. At about the same time Gregor McKinnon was granted land (204 acres 7MAR1798) in Newcastle Parish, Alexander was granted 4 acres 14MAY1798 in the same parish. The impression given is that Alexander, while an adult, was not married and that he knew Gregor McKinnon. The suspicion that Alexander was Gregor s son seems worth considering. In the 1865 directory, an Alexander McKinnon is a farmer at Oak Point, Northumberland Co., NB. For some reason, he does not seem to be listed in the 1851 census of Alnwick Parish, In the 1851 census of Alnwick Parish, there is a lady, apparently entered twice, Ann McKinnon b. NB ca. 1831, servant to Peter and Mary Morrison. Peter Morrison lives at Oak Point. A servant to a widower, John Morrison, is Margaret McKinnon b. ca Maria Stronach (b. ca. 1819), wife of John Stronach (b.

10 ca. 1821) seems to have m. 1st a McKinnon as their stepson is Hector McKinnon b. ca John and Maria seem to have m. ca Here, the assumption that these are descendants of Gregor McKinnon is not valid, as in the 1851 census there is also: McKinnon Hector M Head 68 Scotch 1807 McKinnon Mary F Wife 62 Scotch 1803 McKinnon Ann F Daughter 43 Scotch Birth McKinnon Alexander M Son 38 Scotch Birth McKinnon Sarah F Daughter 25 Scotch Birth McKinnon Hector M Son 17 Scotch Birth McKinnon Nick M Grandson 8 Scotch Birth Davidson Jas M Grandson 16 Scotch Birth also at Oak Point in 1865, and: McKinnon John M Head 50 Scotch Farmer June 1810 McKinnon Catherine F Wife 45 Scotch Birth McKinnon Ann F Daughter 20 Scotch Birth McKinnon Elizabeth F Daughter 17 Scotch Birth McKinnon William M Son 15 Scotch Birth McKinnon Donald M Son 13 Scotch Birth McKinnon Phillip M Son 10 Scotch Birth McKinnon Duncan M Son 7 Scotch Birth McKinnon Hannah F Daughter 6 Scotch Birth McKinnon John M Son 3 Scotch Birth McKinnon Angus M Son 9 m Scotch Birth Thus, there is evidence of the existence of a nearby family also named McKinnon; but Alexander was in the area before this family arrived. Thus there are also hints that not all of Gregor McKinnon s family are known. Sarah McKinnon, widow of Alexander McKinnon, was b. Argyleshire, Scotland ca. 1767, d. Oak Point Alnwick Parish, Northumberland Co., NB 21FEB1851 age 84 years. She had lived there since One assumes she was married before she arrived. An Alexander McKinnon of Chatham had a wife, Mary, and a son, Archibald who d. 22MAY1894 age 10 years. Gregor McKinnon s children were: 1st 1. WILLIAM McKINNON b. 1792, d. 1836, may have gone to Kent Co. "Review", Richibucto, Kent Co., NB, issue of 12JAN1893: m. 28th Dec., at residence of bride's father, 'The Glen', Aboyne, by Rev. W. J. Fowler, B.D., James O'CONNOR of Pointe a la Garde / Marion Isabella McKINNON second d/o William McKINNON. Pointe a la Garde was near Metapedia on the border between Quebec and New Brunswick. There was a large McKinnon family in that area, apparently from Scotland. Why this wedding should be reported in a Richibucto newspaper is unclear. A more likely s/o William McKinnon is the namesake mentioned in the following. Pierre Amiraux was the s/o Pierre and Jeanne (Canivet) Amiraux at one time of Jersey Island, in the English Channel. Pierre was baptized 1772, and d. Kouchiboguac, NB where he d age 84 years. Pierre s 2nd wife was Patience Hains whom he m. Keswick, York Co., NB Patience is given as b and as the d/o Joseph H. Hains. After Pierre died, she m. 2nd Richibucto, NB 1862 William McKinnon. (Probably his 2nd marriage as well.) Patience s children by her 1st marriage were: Lemuel Canivet Amiraux b. Eel Brook, Argyle, NB? 1837, bpt by the Rev. Snyder of

11 Weymouth, NS while on his way to Shelburne. His birth was registered at Yarmouth, NS. He m. Richibucto, NB 1860 Elizabeth Handey or Handley, d/o Wm. Elias Du Sordier Amiraux b. Roberts Island, Argyle Co., NS 1838, d. Richibucto, NB 1924, m. Richibucto, NB 1860 Abigail Shaddick. He was a tanner. This from a typescript published as a book, The Quiet Adventurers, by Marion G. Turk. In a separate file, my notes on Patience, d/o Joseph and Nancy Ann (Boone) Haines are: PATIENCE HAINES b. 1816, m. York Co., NB 12JUN1834 PETER AMERAUX (b. ca ) Peter may have been a s/o Peter Amereaux b. 1757, d. 1856, bur. Richibucto Protestant Cem., Richibucto, Kent Co., NB. which is somewhat at odds with the preceding. Turk does give Pierre Amiraux three sons by his first marriage to Magdelan Prevost; including a son, Peter Canivet Amiraux b. Cornwallis Co., NB? ca The question arises, did Patience marry the father or the son? In spite of the disparity in ages, It is possible that she married the father. Since William McKinnon, s/o Gregor McKinnon, is given as d. 1836; she would most likely have married a younger William. In St. Basile Parish, Victoria Co., NB in the 1851 census (probably in Madawaska Co. now), was a family: Amireaux Peter C M Head 51 English farmer (prop) May 1827 Amireaux Mary A F Wife 39 birth Amireaux John M M Son 21 birth Amireaux Henry A M Son 19 birth Amireaux Susan R A F Daughter 17 birth Amireaux Delia J F Daughter 13 birth Amireaux Clement H M Son 13 birth Patience was the aunt of Benedict Haines [22A] below. William, Patience s 2nd husband, is likely the William McKinnon b. ca. 1805, d. Richibucto, Kent Co., NB 3MAR1866 age 61 years (Saint John, "Morning News", 12MAR1866), leaving a wife. This would seem to make him born too early to be William s son. William is said to have had a son: 11. WILLIAM McKINNON went to Michigan. 2. HUGH McKINNON b , m. 15OCT1829 JANE FORSYTH (b. NB ca. 1808), d/o Robert and Jane (or Jean) (Martin) Forsyth. Jane is most likely a d/o Robert and Jane (or Jean) (Martin) Forsyth; where Jane Martin was a d/o William and Mary Ann Martin. Making some assumptions, it seems likely that Hugh McKinnon and Jane Forsyth were married in Northumberland Co., NB before moving to Richibucto. (Of course, Kent Co. was part of Northumberland Co. at the time, so that may not be such a huge assumption.) Also, it seems probable that Jane Forsyth was b. before 1810, perhaps earlier; and her father before Amongst early petitions for land in Northumberland Co., NB were those of Robert Forsyth ( ) Some of these petitions contain surnames suggesting the lower Miramichi River, and the 82nd Regiment. In 1811, a John Forsyth, probably a son, petitioned with him. Another early petitioner in Northumberland Co., NB ( ) was William Forsyth. Again the lower Miramichi River is suggested, and the 84th Regiment is mentioned. Robert received a grant in Newcastle Parish in 1808, and William in Newcastle Parish in 1791 and The size of the grants suggests William was the elder. William Forsyth appears to have been a merchant operating out of Halifax, NS; and his interests on the Miramichi appear to have been in the salmon fishery. It does not appear he was a resident. Robert Forsyth was, in 1785, described as a refugee from New York, on the north side of the Miramichi. Across the river, at the same time, was Gregor McKinnon; Hugh McKinnon s father. It seems both were Loyalists. Gregor was a sergeant in the Carolina Volunteers; and Robert Forsyth, in spite of coming to New Brunswick from New York (the usual departure point for most NB and NS Loyalists), he was with the North Carolina Volunteers in the American Revolution. To confuse the

12 matter further, he is also said to have been from Pennsylvania. His abduction of his wife, Jane (or Jean) Martin (d/o William and Mary Ann Martin), was a matter of local comment, resulting in a court case. The case was dismissed due to lack of witnesses. In 1789, at Beaubair s Point, Northumberland Co., NB, four men, including a Murdoch McLeod, were charged with having broken into the home of William and Mary Ann Martin on 10FEB1788. They were acquitted, and this may have been the same Murdoch McLeod. Mary Lynn Smith, at part of her site on Charlotte Taylor, expands on the incident at: The process of establishing a legal infrastructure began but there were many difficulties and inconsistencies. The first meeting of the Court of Quarter Sessions convened at Beaubair's Point in Newcastle (Miramichi, New Brunswick) on September 15, The Justices of the Peace in attendance were: William Davidson, John Willson, Alexander Wishart, James Horton, Arthur Nicholson, Alexander Taylor and James Fraser. Their duty was to implement the 'Peace and Sunday Acts', of which there were twelve distinct Acts: 1) Against Profanity on Lord's Day, 2) Regulating Juries, 3) Punishing Rogues and Vagabonds, 4) Appointing Town or Parish Officers, 5) Preventing Trespasses, 6) Laying Out and Repairing Roads, etc., 7) Appointing Commissioners and Surveyors, 8) Regulating Servants, 9) Preservation of Moose 10) License of Retailers of Spirituous Liquors, 11) Regulating Fisheries, 12) Regulating Fish and Lumber. The next day Court reconvened for the trial of King vs Robert Forsythe, Murdoch McLeod, Alex. McDonald, and William Sharpe. William Martin and his wife Mary Ann had complained that these four men had broken into their house during the night of February 10, 1788 and taken their daughter Jane Martin away. The men were acquitted by the Court when the prosecution failed to appear. More details of the case are described in, "The North West Miramichi", by Doreen Menzies Arbuckle (privately, Westboro Printers Ltd., Ottawa, ONT, 1978, p. 213.) In this work it is suggested that Jean (or Jane) Martin and Robert Forsythe were married, and by the time the case came to court (the incident having taken place 10FEB1788) matters were relatively settled. At least, Jean Forsythe was presented 480 acres by her father 17JUL1811 for the rather paltry sum of 5 shillings. In MAR1785, a petition of Robert Forsith indicated he had a house on the north side of the Miramichi, and had been there for two years. A Jane Forsyth is not listed amongst Robert s children. A son, Robert Forsyth, Jr., m. 30JUN1831 Margaret McKinnon, d/o Gregor and Jane (Pearson?/Sharp) McKinnon. It is clear that the McKinnon s and Forsyth s knew each other well. Since Hugh McKinnon is given as b. 1793, one assumes Jane Forsyth was not b. much after. At least she was b. ca This suggests she was a previously un-recorded daughter of Robert and Jane (Martin) Forsyth. This is at least partially substantiated in a discussion at her daughter, Jane McKinnon b. ca A Gregory McKinnon b. ca (41 in 1881), d. 4JUL1891 aet. 53 years, m. Ellen Irving (b. ca. 1843, d. 19FEB1914 aet. 71 years) is buried in St, Andrew s United (Presbyterian) Church Cem., Rexton, Kent Co., NB. In 1881, Gregory and Ellen are living with her brother, Henry Irving (b. ca. 1847) in Richibucto. As Henry Irving was a pilot, he probably was the s/o George (b. Scotland ca. 1807) and Elizabeth (b. Scotland ca. 1806), where, in 1881, George was also a pilot. Kenneth Colin Irving s forefather, George Irving was born in Dumfries, Scotland in He immigrated with his wife Jane, to Richibucto, N.B. in It was to start a new life. Kenneth Colin Irving was born in Richibucto in He grew up there and as soon as he was old enough, he started working in the family store and lumber mill after school. He managed to complete grammar school and high school. "KC Irving", by Nick Lamb, 15JAN2002 In 1822, George Irving, K. C. s great-grandfather, arrives in Canada in Richibucto, New Brunswick and settles in Beersville, New Brunswick with his wife. In 1860, his father, James Dergavel Irving or J. D. Irving was born. In 1881 he moves to Bouctouche, New Brunswick to run a sawmill and a farm. In 1899, Kenneth Colin or K. C. Was born to parents James Dergavel Irving and his second wife, Mary Elizabeth Gifford. In 1909.

13 Hugh and Jane McKinnon were in Glenelg Parish, Northumberland Co., NB in 1851 as: McKinnon Hugh M Head 58 Scotch Farmer Birth McKinnon Jane F Wife 43 Scotch Birth McKinnon Margaret F Daughter 20 Scotch Birth McKinnon Sarah F Daughter 15 Scotch Birth McKinnon Grigor M Son 13 Scotch Birth McKinnon Catharine F Daughter 10 Scotch Birth McKinnon Robert M Son 8 Scotch Birth McKinnon William M Son 6 Scotch Birth McKinnon Ann F Daughter 4 Scotch Birth McKinnon Bona F Daughter 7 m Scotch Birth Also in Glenleg Parish, in 1851, was the family: McDonald John M Head 37 Scotch Farmer (Prop) Birth McDonald Margaret F Wife 28 Scotch Birth McDonald Francis M Son 9 Scotch Birth McDonald Ann F Daughter 7 Scotch Birth McDonald Karin F Daughter 5 Scotch Birth McDonald Alexander M Son 3 Scotch Birth McKinnon Jane F Cousin 18 Scotch Birth The circumstances strongly suggest that cousin Jane McKinnon was Hugh s daughter. The relationship of the McDonald s to the McKinnon s is not immediately clear. Hugh McKinnon was in Division 1 of Richibucto in 1871, age 70, b. NB, Scottish, Presbyterian and a lumberer. He was a widower, and two children with him were Robert (25) and Catherine (28.) Robert was also a lumberer, and he and Catherine are not indicated as being married; so it is assumed she was his sister. In 1881, in Richibucto, Robert (age 37) did have a wife, Catherine (age 35.) Robert was C. Presbyterian and Scottish, while his wife was Roman Catholic and Irish. Since the Catherine in 1871 was Presbyterian and Scottish, it seems unlikely that she was his wife. Next door was the family of Joseph Haines (age 26), also a lumberer; possibly in partnership. Since Hugh and his son, Gregory, are the only McKinnon s in Richibucto in 1871, it is assumed that all McKinnon s in the immediate area at that time, and before then, were Hugh s family. One given as Hugh s son appears to be: JOSEPH McKINNON (?), m. Richibucto, Kent Co., NB by the Rev. James Hannay 14NOV1839 ABIGAIL SMITH. A daughter was possibly Annie McKinnon (b. 24DEC1861), a niece of Ellie McKinnon, in the 1901 census of Richibucto. In 1911, Annie (b. DEC1861) was Ellen s adopted daughter. Ellen also had a grandson, Gregor McKinnon (b. MAR1901); possibly Annie s son. Annie (age 18) was with Gregory and Ellen McKinnon in 1881; suggesting her parents died before then. 1. ANNIE McKINNON b. 24DEC1861 (ca ) However, if Joseph and Abigail were actually m. 1839, when most of Hugh s children had yet to be born, I cannot see that the conclusion is viable. Hugh appears to have moved to Kent Co., NB between the census returns of 1851 and 1858, by which time his daughter, Margaret, was married. Perhaps land was an issue. I do not see any immediate indications that Hugh either petitioned for land nor that he was granted any. It seems more likely that his land in Glenelg Parish he inherited from his father, and when he moved, left to his sister, Catherine (McKinnon) Anderson; from whom it seems to pass to her daughters and perhaps to the Cameron s. At least it seems that members of the general family are in occupation of some land in Little Branch, Black River, Glenelg Parish up until, and perhaps after, If my guesses in this are correct, the possessor at that time would appear to be Christina Janet Anderson (Allen) Cameron [3121] and her husband, James Robert Cameron. Certainly most of their children were b. in Little Branch. Perhaps land once owned by Gregor McKinnon is still in the hands of his descendants.