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HomeMy WebLinkAbout765"Small section taken from Pheobe McCarty Roberts' diary of a Quaker missionary journey to Upper Canada. This journey was made during the fall and winter months of 1821 and 1822 by four ministers of the Society of Friends - Phoebe Roberts, Jemima Burson, Jacob Albertson amd Cyrus Betts. Starting from Richland, Pennsylvania, on 10 September 1921, they travelled 2,200 miles, visited hundreds of families, and held forty-five religious meetings before they again reached their homes in Gebruary 1822. The book is part of the Local History collection. The section extracted is that which to pertains to the Pickering section of the missionaries' journey (page 21 - 36). PHOEBE ROBERTS' DIARY number was not few but there have several of them returned acceptably to their friends, and some of them do now fill their former station in society, elders and overseers. These people have a great meeting house,36 -the inside work, painting and organ altogether appear to show forth superstition and idolatry. We went that night to Henry Widowfield's. [Widdifield]. 37 24th of the month, 4th of the week [24 Oct.]. Attended Whit Church Meeting; their house was well filled. Some worthy friends live here away. We dined at our ancient friends Samuel and Sarah Londeys [Lundy].38 Our beloved friend Benjamin Tison left us here; we went to Watkins Platers [Watson Playter]29 that night. 25th of the month, 5th of the week [25 Oct.]. Set out for Oxbridge [Uxbridge], Peter Wilson [Footnote 40] our pilot, through 16 miles of wilderness, the best road that we have traveled that distance since we came into this province tho there some trees fell across the way, the men prepared with an axe. We got to Samuel Hughes 41 that night, his wife a daughter of Robert Penrose; they treated us kindly. 26th of the month, 6th of the week [26 Oct.]. Attended Oxbridge meeting which was satisfactory; a lively little company of friends here. Dined at Elizabeth Chapman's, the widow of Charles Chapman.42 I suppose we are now about 25 miles from Young Street; lodged at Aliga [Elijah] Collin's.42 27th of the month, 7th of the week [27 Oct.]. Set out for Pickering. Traveled 18 miles. William Widowfield 43 and Aliga Collins accompanied us and a hard day's journey we had; the men had to cut several trees out of the way and many deep mud holes to wade through. It seemed almost impossible to us who had never seen the like, that we could get along, but our two kind friends thought little of it. About noon it began to thunder and rain, and there was an appearance of a storm which alarmed (36) This first meeting-house, built in 1819, continued to be used for a number of years. In addition an elaborate Temple, in which services were held on special occasions, was erected in 1825. This is the Sharon Temple which still stands and now houses the museum of the York Pioneer and Historical Society. (37) Henry Widdifield, lot 32, con. 3, Whitchurch. The crown grant in 1811 was to 'H. Widderfield'. (38) Samuel was an elder brother of William Lundy, the original settler on Lundy's Lane, Niagara Ws,, Ontario. He lived on lot 33, con. 4, Whitchurch Township. (39) Watson Playter, a Trustee of Pickering Meeting, lived on lot 29, con. 5, Whitchurch Town-sriip. (40) Peter Wilson received a crown grant to lot 26, con. 4, Whitchurch, in 1816. It is interesting 10 note that in 1877 there were Widdifields, Lundys, Playters, and Wilsons on these same lots. (41) Pennsylvania records show that Samuel Hughes married Mary Penrose, a daughter of Robert Penrose. (42) Charles Chapman, lot 28, con. 5, Uxbridge, and Elijah Collins, lot 33, con.5,Uxbridge, were among the early settlers who came here from Pennsylvania in 1805. (43) William Widdifield lived on lot 26, con. 6, Whitchurch." "22 ONTARIO HISTORICAL SOCIETY us, the land being so heavily timbered, but we were preserved safe through all. Got to our beloved friend, John Height's [Haight]44 about three o'clock in the afternoon where we were kindly received by him and wife; he lately returned from a religious visit to the meeting of Friends in the State of Vermont and elsewhere; been gone several months. He has not long been a member in our Society. We are now three miles of the Lake Ontario. 28th of the month, 1st of the week [28 Oct.]. We are all well. We attended Pickering Meeting, three miles to it; great part of the way log bridges, very disagreeable traveling. We had a satisfactory meeting; several valuable friends belong to this meeting. Dined at Joseph Webster's 45 his wife a daughter of Henry Widowfield, her brother Mark living near. We had an opportunity in his family and also one at Nicholas Brown's 46 house. We parted with our friends. Aliga Collins lodged at Joseph Webster's. 29th of the month, 2nd of the week [29 Oct.]. Here we parted with our kind friend William Widowfield. Our beloved friend Nicholas Brown joined us in our laborous travel. We set out in company with several other friends and attended a meeting that was appointed at a school house eight miles on our way out, of our Society and it was a favored time; several appearances in the ministry and it was truly a refreshing season. We had great encouragement to go forward, we, as well as our new companion who has received a precious gift in the ministry. We dined at Jacob Stone's,47 not members, he and family treated us kindly. We went on 7 miles further and lodged at an Inn. 30th of the month, 3rd of the week [30 Oct.]. Traveled 36 miles, got to Freeman Clerk's [ Clark].48 A fine road greater part of the way through pleasant country. We several times had the sight of the Lake Ontario in this day's travel. 31st of the month, 4th of the week [31 Oct.]. We attended a meeting appointed this house—Freeman Clerk's, two o'clock, which was much favored. After meeting we set out to attend a meeting appointed nine miles on our way, it being wet weather and heavy travelling but we got (44) John Haight lived on the edge of what is now the village of Pickering. He was an Assessor here in 1811. (45) Joseph Webster was two and a half miles from Haight's on lot 2, con. 2, Pickering Tp. He was a township officer at that time. (46) Nicholas Brown was one of the first Trustees of the Pickering Meeting, he was also an Assessor for several years. His residence was on lot 5, con. 2, about midway between Webster's ana Haight's. He had come from Vermont about 1810. (47) Jacob Stone lived at lot 8, con. 2, Whitby, now part of the city of Oshawa. (48) Freeman dark lived close to what is now Grafton."" A minister in the Society of Friend's he was later prominent among the Hicksite Friends." "PHOEBE ROBERTS' DIARY 23 to our Inn agreeable to the time appointed, but there was no meeting on account of the great rain. Joseph Keler 49 treated us kindly, free gratis. First of the 11th month [1 Nov. 1821]. Had an opportunity in the family to good satisfaction, then proceeded on our journey. Went 12 miles, lodged at Samuel Durling's, [Dorland],50 a friend. Settled many miles from meeting. Their situation claimed our sympathy. 2nd of the 11th month [2 Nov.]. Traveled 20 miles to Joseph Durling's [Dorland] 51 a family of friends; got there at 2 o'clock. There was a meeting appointed for us in the evening at a school house which we attended and it was a season of Divine favour. The Gospel flowed as from the pure fountain of everlasting life and many hearts were tendered. The meeting concluded in supplication. I have noticed that the meetings we have had out of Society are commonly the most favored. Nicholas Brown hath a precious gift in the ministry. 3rd of the month, 7th of the week [3 Nov.]. We had a favored sitting in Joseph Durling's family; there were present several tender young people. We went on 5 miles to Amelia Meeting 52 which was appointed for us. I hope it ended to the honor of Truth. Dined at James Barker's 53 near the meeting house on the Lake shore, a beautiful situation indeed. It rained and stormed very much. It was wonderful to behold the foaming and raging of the proud waves. Went three miles farther. Lodged at our kind friend, Aaron White's.54 4th of the month, 1st of the week [4 Nov.]. We have our health very well now. Fair weather. Rode this morning 8 miles to West Lake Meeting 55 and a favored one it was. The Gospel was preached and many could set their seals thereto. Dined at Jonathan Bowman's [Bowennan],56 (49) Joseph Keeler was innkeeper at the village of Colborne, where he was the first settler and owner of a large tract of land. (50) Samuel Dorland lived about four miles east of Brighton. (51) Joseph Dorland, of Hillier Township, Prince Edward County, was a nephew of Philip Dorland, early Quaker leader and Loyalist, who was elected to the first Parliament in Upper Canada in 1792 but was disqualified through failure to take an oath, which as a Quaker he could not do. (52) Amelia Meeting was at Wellington, where Lake Ontario and West Lake (Yeo Lake) meet. (53) James Barker, a son of the pioneer David Barker, married Mary Leavens. He was associated with his brother Abraham in a milling enterprise at Wellington. (54) Aaron White's great-great-granddaughter is Miss Filona Barker, who welcomed at Bloomfield the members of The Ontario Historical Society at the time of the Annual Meeting in June 1949. She states: ""He came from Wales and settled on the outskirts of what is now the village of Wellington. He is mentioned with Samuel Baker as being one of a committee to have oversight of an indulged meeting at Thurlow (near Belleville). Aaron White has many descendants in this county, some of whom are Friends, but most of them joined other denominations."" (55) West Lake Meeting was at Bloomfield, where Jonathan Bowerman owned most of the property below the brick Meeting House. John Bull owned the land west of the Meeting House and between them they gave the land on which it was built. In 1821 it was a frame building on the north side of the road across from the Bowerman burying grounds on the way to Wellington. It was torn down many years ago and replaced by the brick one in Lower Bloomfield. (56) Jonathan Bowerman, born 1759, died 1847, built the first saw-mill in the Bloomfield district." "24 ONTARIO HISTORICAL SOCIETY near the meeting house, and also attended another meeting at the same place at three o'clock. A large gathering; it was truly a rousing time. The travelers Zionward were encouraged to hold on their way; it is an old settlement of Friends here and a very pleasant part of the country. They hold their half year's meeting here in the winter season and at Young Street in the summer. I left my creature with a friend at this place, she being lame and he was so kind as to let me have one of his. 5th of the month, 2nd of the week [5 Nov.]. Traveled two miles to breakfast at Samuel Baker's,57 Irish Friends, a religious family. We had a solid opportunity with them. Went two miles farther to Abraham Baker's, 58 friends, We had a comfortable sitting with them. Set out at two o'clock, traveled 16 miles up the Bay Quimby [Quinte]; a great water, and attended a meeting that was appointed for us at six in the evening, at Jacob Cronck's [Cronk]59 house. This meeting is called Green Point Meeting. There was a large gathering of friends and others. It was a highly favored meeting indeed. Nicholas Brown is a faithful laborer in His Master's Cause and his company hath been truly acceptable to us. He and Cyrus rode on horse back by turns. Jacob Cronch and wife are Germans, valuable Friends, both members of the select meeting. They have one son whose name is Samuel, their only child, a worthy young man and his wife a precious little woman. They were very wealthy people and appeared to live in much harmony. In the year 1820, Nicholas Brown and Jacob Cronck set out on the 1st day of the 4th month [1 Apr.] on a religious visit to the meetings of friends to the eastward, traveled two thousand, five hundred miles, returned on the 27th day of 7th month [27 July], the same instant. These two friends appear to be united in the bonds of true fellowship. Sixth of the month, 3rd of the week [6 Nov.]. Took leave of our friends. Jacob went with us; we turned back down the Bay Quimby [Bay of Quinte] ten miles, then we crossed the water. Here we met with several Friends who were appointed to attend Adolphe's [Adolphustown] preparative meeting. Two of our men thought they would go with the wagon and cross in the Ferry Boat and we to cross in another craft some distance from the Ferry.60 We put out from shore some distance when our friends came running and said the ferryman would not take the (57) See fn. 54. (58) Abraham Barker owned the 200 acres which comprised lot 1, and included what is now the site of a large part of the town of Picton. (59) Jacob Cronk was a son of Abraham Cronk, U.E- Loyalist from Poughkeepsie, N.Y. His home was at Green Point, Sophiasburg Township, Prince Edward County, and was the meeting house for Green Point Indulged Meeting as early as 1808. Jacob's sister married John Gorssline, an ancestor of Brigadier Gorssline of The Ontario Historical Society, who states that the name Cronk was originally Cronkhite. (60) A ferry still operates at this point, from Glenora to Adolphustown." "PHOEBE ROBERTS' DIARY 25 wagon, the wind being too high; they put up the horse at the Inn, so with some difficulty we returned to shore and took them in; there were ten on board, some thought it dangerously heavy laden, the waves were exceedingly high. Jacob Cronck and Nicholas Brown took the oars, they being strong, able men; they worked very hard, it being a mile and three-quarters wide. Robert Hubs, [Hubbs]61 an ancient Friend, took his seat in the stern, he being a Long Island man and not much afraid of water. We had hard work to get to shore, then we walked through a meadow to Sarah Barker's house. She had two wagons prepared to take us to meeting which was one mile. We got there about 12 o'clock, our feet being very damp and cold, but we had a satisfactory meeting. The Committee I mentioned was appointed on a case of difficulty that the meeting had long labored under connections interferring, so that things were much out of order amongst them. After our meeting concluded went home with our dear friend Sarah Barker,62 she being a widow, a solid humble woman. We found her a nursing mother, in a needful time. Men's meeting held till almost night; they had a laborous meeting; after a long debate, it was concluded to lay the case before Monthly Meeting. It was thought our men Friends labors amongst them were of use, when they came home they were much spent. Our wagon was taken over at 10 o'clock at night. 7th of the month, 4th of the week [7 Nov.], Took leave of our friends. We traveled 15 miles down the Bay, here the Bay Quimby [Bay of Quinte] enters into the River St. Lawrence. Here we seen the sights of the great Islands. The river here they say is 30 miles wide; they cross in a steam boat.63 We now leave this great body of water on our right hand; went 7 miles farther and attended a meeting appointed at 6 o'clock at a School House and near Ernest town meeting house. A few Friends live here away and hold an indulged meeting. Nicholas had for a long time a concern to pay a religious visit to the people of this neighborhood.The meeting ended to good satisfaction, the people were very attentive and appeared to receive the little legacy of love kindly; may they improve under it; if they do, it may have a tendency to lead them to enjoy a better inheritance. Lodged at John Lake's 64 a friend's house. (61) Robert Hubbs, U.E. Loyalist from Long Island, settled at Picton on the bay in 1797. His wife was Jane Haviland. He would be in his sixties at the time of this adventure. (62) Sarah Barker (maiden name Gould), was the widow of Edward Barker who had died in 1820, aged 54. She had been left with two sons and a step-daughter in their home at Adolphustown. (63) The Frontenac. the first steamboat that plied upon the waters of Lake Ontario, was launched 7 September 1816 at Ernesttown (now Bath). (64) Probably John Lake Jr., son of John Lake, U.E. Loyalist, who settled in 1784 on lots 27 and 28, con, 1, Ernesttown." "26 ONTARIO HISTORICAL SOCIETY 8th of the month, 5th of the week [8 Nov.]. Journeyed 12 miles to Elizabeth Bruer's [Brewer] house,65 she being a widow. Friends' Meeting was held in her house called Kingston Meeting. There was a meeting appointed this afternoon which was attended to a good degree of satisfaction. Here I met with Ann Hudson, formerly Ann James, daughter of Ezekel James, of Catawissa. 66 Lodged here. 9th of the month, 6th of the week [9 Nov.]. We rode five miles to an elegant town called Kingston. A friend went on to give notice of a meeting at the tenth hour, at an Inn. We got there and were conducted to a very large room, up chamber [upstairs], but there were but few people collected. Our friends did not feel fully satisfied, so concluded to give notice of another meeting in the evening at 6 o'clock. We visited the prison this afternoon, went up chamber first; there were but a few men in; we had a favored opportunity with them and they acknowledged the visit kindly. Then went down into the cells where we found several of our fellow creatures; every heart was melted in beholding their sorrowful situation and the love of Our Heavenly Father was spread over all and they, poor objects, expressed great satisfaction in their way. There were several friends who met with us here, some accidently, that came from a distance, who were very attentive to us. Samuel Cronck 67 was a very acceptable one of our Company now. Meeting time—a great number of people assembled. They appeared of the highest distinction and sat solid and attentive and it was a favored meeting indeed. The Gospel stream flowed as from the pure Fountain of Life and the people appeared well satisfied and were friendly to us. A young man and wife came to us; they had just arrived from England with prospect of settling in this town; they appeared glad to see us—tho strangers, the man told me, he was once a Friend tho he had not the appearance of one then except the love he had for them. 10th of the month, 7th of the week [10 Nov.]. Here in Kingston; cannot see our way out nor what we have to do. Have a trying situation. Thought best to wait and be still. At length the way opened to visit the jailer's family, they being Methodists; the visit appeared to be kindly received. Then returned to our hotel. Then visited a family who lodged there at that time, an old man and two daughters, one a young woman, the other about nine years old as lovely a child as I ever saw. This man was a play actor; had been educated to it and followed it for a living and (65) Elizabeth Brewer, five miles from the town of Kingston near the present village of Cataraqui, was no doubt the widow of Aaron Brewer, a U.E. Loyalist who had settled here in the 1780's. Early preparative meetings were held in their house. She is not to lie confused with a later Eliza Brewer, a noted Minister of the Society. (66) This refers to Catawissa, Pennsylvania. (67) Son of Jacob Cronk; see fn 59." "PHOEBE ROBERTS' DIARY 27 was training up his children to play on instruments of music. Jamima was much grieved on account of the eldest daughter who had her spinet before her and endeavored to show her the evil of such a way of life but it had not much effect on her, but the dear little sister, how she fondled about us, the tears running down her cheeks and the poor old father lamenting his situation, wept, and said, ""my girl, mind what the woman hath told you; I love God and good men but I know of no other way to get my living, now this is the prejudice of education"" and wept again. We left then and had an opportunity in the inn keeper's family. We had a prospect of going to a meeting called Leeds, fifty miles further on but now it was most easy to dispense of it and glad we were released from this place. Set out and rode five miles up the river to Joseph Rheaves' [Reeve] house, who were glad to see us and we were indeed glad once more to feel ourselves at liberty amongst our friends. 11th of the month, 1st of the week [11 Nov.]. Had an opportunity in the family to good satisfaction. Rode five miles to the widow Bruery's [Brewer] house, Kingston Meeting; we had to experience the Word verified ""where two or three are met in My name there will I be in the midst of them."" We dined at Peter Knite's, [Knight]68 rested this afternoon, feeling our minds excused from the long journey to Leeds, tho it looks pleasant that way. They have a large preparative meeting there of solid friends. At the first visit a few sober people met together for to worship and at length become members amongst Friends and have progressed along to the honor of truth. 12th of the month, 2nd of the week [12 Nov.]. A great deal of wet weather and heavy traveling. Rode 16 miles to Earnest Town [Ernest-town], dined at an English friend's house, attended a meeting appointed at three o'clock, a large collection, other professions who were solid and attentive and some of them appeared as though their hearts were susceptible to receive the Truth which reigned over all. Lodged at William Wilcock's [Wilcox] house, a friendly man, who treated us kindly. 13th of the month, 3rd of the week [13 Nov.]. We attended a meeting appointed at Adolphes [Adolphustown] this afternoon; it proved a refreshing season, like a brook by the way. The meeting held till night. Went home with our beloved friend Sarah Barker and we were glad to get home again, her roof a refuge to the weary traveler. Traveled 17 miles. 14th of the month, 4th of the week [14 Nov.]. A cold stormy day; We were afraid to venture over the Bay; we waited till 12 o'clock. We got over without much difficulty, attended a meeting appointed at a (68) No doubt the son of Mahlon Knight, U.E. Loyalist, who settled near Cataraqui about 1784. A descendant, Alfred Knight, lives on R.R. 1, Cataraqui." "28 ONTARIO HISTORICAL SOCIETY Methodist Meeting House, several friends met us here. We went home with Robert Hubs. Traveled 8 miles. 15th of the month, 5th of the week [15 Nov.]. Went five miles to West Lake Monthly Meeting,69 which was large. Five preparative meetings and several other constitute it. Some friends from Leads [Leeds]: they appeared much impressed in the simplicity. The meeting held till night. Went home with Jonathan Bowman. There were 20 friends met there this evening and had a solid opportunity together. 16th of the 11th month, 6th of the week [16 Nov.]. Paid two family visits this morning. Dined at Judah Bowman's [Bowerman].70 Here I found my creature fit for traveling. Traveled 8 miles; lodged at James Barker's. Now we bid adieu to West Lake. 17th of the month, 7th of the week [17 Nov.]. Our friend Nicholas Brown made an attempt to leave us and go home but he soon turned back again, he being much with his family it seemed a trial to him to turn out of his road home and go with us. Traveled 18 miles across the river Trent and lodged at an Inn.71 18th of the month, 1st of the week [18 Nov.]. Went 8 miles to Eighthtown Meeting 72 held at Thomas Jones' house, 73 an indulged meeting. There are a few solid friends here; we had a favored time. He was much favored in the ministry; we had renewedly to believe that his being with us was an acceptable dedication to his Divine Master. 19th of the month, 2nd of the week [19 Nov.]. Visited several families. Traveled 18 miles, Lodged at Thomas Jones. 20th of the month, 3rd of the week [20 Nov.]. Took leave of our friends; crossed the River Trent at the same place 74 N. B. [Nicholas Brown] left us and went home. We have had Jonathan Bowman for our pilot. Traveled 18 miles to Anthony Terrille's, 75 Coal Creek. Lodged. 21st of the month, 4th of the week [21 Nov.]. Attended a little meeting at a friend's house named Samuel Clapp.76 There is a choice little company of humble friends at this place; some of the young people appear to have set their faces Zionward. It is truly comfortable to find a little remnant at every meeting that are endeavoring to walk in the (69) West Lake Monthly Meeting was held at Bloomfield (so named by James Barker). (70) A younger brother of Jonathan Bowerman, born 1779, died 1868. (71) This Inn was evidently near the present town of Trenton; after crossing at the Carrying Place they had turned east again. (72) Eighthtown Meeting was named after the Eighth Township of the Midland District, later known as Sidney Township. (73) Thomas Jones lived near Frankford. (74) This crossing would be near Trenton. (75) Cold Creek, 6th and 7th concessions Brighton Township, where the Terrills were large landowners. Some of the descendants are still in this locality. (76) Samuel Clapp was one of a large and prominent family most of whom were in Prince Edward County." "PHOEBE ROBERTS' DIARY 29 paths of truth and righteousness and to support the testimony in the Spirit required. We have now attended all the meetings constituting West Lake Monthly Meeting. Traveled three miles on a road almost impossible for a wagon to pass; several men took axes and cut trees out of the way. We all traveled a piece on foot, wet as it was but got safely through. Lodged at Jehabad Richmond's;77 his brother John and wife came to see us, he being a humble friend and sometimes appears in the ministry; my mind was dipped in near sympathy with him in his travels and deep exercises. 22nd of the month, 5th of the week [22 Nov.] Had a solid opportunity in the family which I believe would not have been had the man not assisted us in starting but he kept his seat in a solemn manner, which commanded silence. Three men set out with us furnished with axes and had much to do. We got fast in the mud several times. They went with us a few miles until we got to an open road. We at last got to our Lake Road which we were glad to see. Here we parted with our dear friend, Jonathan Bowman; got to Joseph Keler's Inn [Keeler]. Traveled 16 miles. 23rd of the month, 6th of the week [23 Nov.]. We called at Freeman Clerk's; there concluded to appoint a meeting at a place called Hummelstown,79 a county town 8 miles ahead. We went 4 miles further, the friend and his wife with us. Lodged at Samuel Brook's. 24th of the month, 7th of the week [24 Nov.]. Attended meeting held in the Court House. 79 A few solid people attended who appeared satisfied. After meeting we visited the Prison—there were but two men in the Cells and two depters [debtors] ; it being late in the day and we weary and cold, the jailer's wife invited us to take tea with them, which we gladly accepted. Here we parted with Freeman Clerk's wife; her husband went on with us on foot. Went a mile further to Silas Richmond's. He and wife not at home; traveled 8 miles. 25th of the month, 1st of the week [25 Nov.]. The friends came home; they are much secluded from their friends. They have a little meeting on first day; they sit with the ancient parents who live in a house by themselves; sometimes a few neighbors attend with them; they appear to be a goodly family. The meeting was satisfactory. We traveled 8 (77) The Richmonds were neighbours of the Terrills on the 7th concession, Brighton Township. (78) Cobourg, the port of Hamilton Township. Although then officially known as Cobourg it is apparent that the earlier name of Hamilton was still being used. As a former resident of Hamilton Township in Pennsylvania, which she also called Hummelstown, the diarist would be particularly interested in this name. (79) The court-house was then a small frame building erected by private subscription at Amherst, a settlement at the north west of the present town of Cobourg. See D. E, Wattie, 'Cobourg, 1784-1867' (University of Toronto M.A. Thesis, 1919), 1, 39. The site m near the present Home for the Aged." "30 ONTARIO HISTORICAL SOCIETY miles this afternoon. Very bad roads. My creature sick. We got to an Inn. 26th of the month, 2nd of the week [26 Nov.]. The creature could hardly walk. She has been foundered with wheat. The men did all they could for her. We started and through much difficulty traveled 13 miles. 27th of the month, 3rd of the week [27 Nov.]. Things no better. We hired a creature for five miles, then hitched her to the friend's, walked by her side and held her up through great swamps that appeared almost impossible to get through, I being not well and much discouraged, under the present circumstances of things, but I hope some way will be cast up in our favor. I have always experienced an evidence that I came into this land under Divine protection, tho sometimes trials occur. We traveled 17 miles before we stopped—a hard day's journey for man and beast. I believe if it had not been for our kind friend our creature would have been left by the way. Lodged at James Stare's [Starr]80 a friend who moved from Maiden Creek. 28th of the month, 4th of the week [28 Nov.]. Visited a few families of friends. Our creature no better. Traveled two miles. Lodged at Jabus Sayres'. 29th of the month, 5th of the week [29 Nov.]. We attended Pickering Meeting, 3 miles. Went home with our friend Nicholas Brown. Our kind friend, Freeman Clerk, left us at James Star's, who traveled with us 50 miles on foot. He went home in a wagon that had been to market at York. Several of our kind friends came to see us and were much concerned for us in our helpless situation and endeavored to encourage us. We see no other way now but to wait—traveling almost impossible. 30th of the month, 6th of the week [30 Nov.]. Very cold washed our clothes; our horses a little better. 1st of 12th month, 7th of the week [1 Dec. 1821]. Nicholous took us out on his sled to visit several of his brothers' families who were settled in the woods. All goodly young people. On the way home one of the runners took a stump and over set us. Jacob and I received some hurt but were well pleased with our visit. 2nd of the month, 1st of the week [2 Dec.]. We attended a meeting to good satisfaction. Several friends went home with us who were much concerned for us. Things appear discouraging, our creatures not able to travel and the roads dangerously bad and after having a solid opportunity with our friends, we took leave of them and went to John Height's. We were prevented from getting to meeting that day on account of the rain. 3rd of the month, 2nd of the week [3 Dec] Our friend N. B. (80) James Suit from Maiden Creek, Berks County. Pa., just north of the City of Reading, had settled on lot 22, con. 2, Whitby." "PHOEBE ROBERTS' DIARY 31 [Nicholas Brown] came to see us and we went to see our ancient friend Timothy Rogers;81 he was one of the first friends who came to this Province, settled at Young Street. He has had 20 children, 15 by the first wife, second wife 5; he is 65, his present wife 41. We returned home with our kind friends John Height and wife. 4th of the month, 3rd of the week [4 Dec.]. The creatures better. Jamima's mind turned back to Young Street, a new trial, knowing the difficulty of traveling and a great distance out of our way. 5th of the month, 4th of the week [5 Dec.]. Timothy Rogers hitched his horses in our wagon, our men rode our horses, two friends took axes and went several miles with us and found work aplenty; we got staled in the swamps many times—we had to walk some. Our friends went several miles with us. Traveled 10 miles, put up at a private house. 6th of the month, 5th of the week [6 Dec.]. Some snow fell—had to walk through the mud, our feet very cold. Got 7 miles to James Hughes, took breakfast, went three miles to Uxbridge preparative meeting. Our beloved friend appeared glad to see us once more. We dined at William Widowfields, two miles from the meeting house. Lodged at Thomas Hilburns',83 he and wife being aged people. They moved from Wrightstown, Bucks County. We had a comfortable time with them. 7th of the month, 6th of the week [7 Dec.]. Their son Amos offered to take us women on his sled to Whit Church, which we accepted; we had agreeable company; some snow and the ground frozen. Our men road our horses; they traveled very well; Timothy kept to the wagon. We got to Henry Widowfield's after night. Traveled 21 miles. 8th of the month, 7th of the week [8 Dec.]. The friend came with the wagon having put his horse to it with one of ours. Went three miles to John Eve's,84 a grandson of John Eves, of Fishing Creek. We found bad traveling this day. 9th of the month, 1st of the week [9 Dec.]. Cold morning, some snow. We are in hopes the ground will be frozen up—till then we cannot travel far. I am in hopes my mare will soon be well but Jacob's creature is in a more dangerous situation, a complaint in her shoulder. Jacob has been much favored with his health and composed in his mind through all (81) Timothy Rogers, born :n 1756, came to Canada in 1801. He was the founder of the Yonge Street Meeting, but later moved to Pickering and there in 1814 he gave the land for the Pickering Meeting, on lot 13, con. 5 Pickering Township. A sketch of his life is given in Dr. A. G. Dorland's A History of the Society of Friends (Quakers) in Canada. His small mill was on Duffin's Creek. (82) At one time James Hughes lived on lot 3, con. 6, Pickering, but this location does not agree with the mileage given here. (83) Thomas and Amos Hilborn (or Hilburn) were among the dozen or so Pennsylvanians who first settled Uxbridge. In I837 James, Stephen, and Joseph Hilburn were on lot 31, con 6, Uxbridge. This was next lo Jonathan Gould's lot. W. H. Higgins, Life and Times of Joseph Gould (Toronto, 1887). (84) John Eves lived on lot 5, con. 2, East Gwillimbury, three miles north of William Widdifield on Queen Street. (A John Eves was on this land in 1877.)" "32 ONTARIO HISTORICAL SOCIETY and has been a kind friend to me; he is very exemplary in his deportment where ever his lot is cast and I believe he endeavors to dwell near the Fountain of all Good and for service. He is greatly beloved and where ever he doth go, his company is agreeable to young and old. Now meeting time—alas how soon can our hopes be subsided. My creature came out of the Stable almost dead; she had got hampered in the night with a rope. Discouraging indeed, here in a helpless situation. John put his horses to the wagon and told us to keep them a while. Queen Street Meeting being near, we attended it to good satisfaction. Dined at Mordick Mecloud's [Murdoch McLeod]; we had an opportunity in his family; he is a sensible, well behaved man and much esteemed amongst Friends. Before we left them we went on to Samuel Hanes,85 his wife a daughter of Charles Chapman's; she is one of David Wilson's chief singing women. We had an opportunity with them to good satisfaction. She told us she felt as though she could have got in our wagon and gone with us; at the time we were at their meeting she was much tendered indeed. Lodged at Levi Hughes',86 the eldest son of Job Hughes, his mother a sister of Benjamin Wright's of Oley.87 10th of the month, 2nd of the week [10 Dec.]. John Eves came to see us. The mare is a little better. We had a solid opportunity in the family. From there we went to James Kinsey's, a cousin of John Kinsey's of Bucks County.88 Had a satisfactory opportunity in the family. Paid another family visit. John Eves our company for the day; went home with him. 11th of the month, 3rd of the week [11 Dec.]. The creature better; everything done that can be done for her; several family visits prepared. John started with us; called at Mordeca Widowfield's, [Widdifield]89 next at Benjamin Widowfield's, his wife the daughter of Timothy Rogers, who had been for a long time in a poor state of health. She appeared not long for this world. They live in a poor little house, only one room, a cold stormy day, the wind ablowing on her from every quarter. We were dipped in near sympathy with them in their afflicted situation. How many are there in the world who are blest with all the comforts of life and yet are discontent and murmur, while thousands are suffering from (85) Samuel Hanes lived on lot 4, con. 2, E. Gwillimbury, about a mile south of Queen Street Meeting. (86) Levi Hughes was on lot 11, con. 3, E. Gwillimbury. (87) Oley is near Reading, Pa. (88) James Kinsey got a crown grant in 1807 of lot 3, con. 2, E. Gwillimbury. Kinsey is the spelling in Pennsylvania, but some descendants spell the name Kenzie. This family was from near Richland, Pa. Other Kinseys from the same district were Mennonites and settled about 1800 in Waterloo County. (89) Mordeca Widdifield cannot be placed, but Benjamin lived on lot 20, con. 6, Whitchurch. In 1837 Mordeca was living in Uxbridge Tp." "PHOEBE ROBERTS' DIARY 33 want of that which is really necessary. We have passed through a rich country but some who have newly settled in the wilderness with young families, have many difficulties, tho they appear to do as well as they can; many of their children poorly clothed, bare foot in the winter season, running in the snow. Some friends of this description are more useful in society than many who have great possessions. Dined at our dear friends, Henry and Margaret Buncle 90 and had an opportunity in their family. Went to William Done's [Doan] at Young Street. Here our kind friend, John Eves, left us and went home with his horses. Here amongst our friends, in a helpless situation, waiting to see the event. 12th of the month, 4th of the week [12 Dec.J. Paid 5 family visits, one at Asa Rogers', 91 who had lately lost his wife, she being the daughter of Levi Dennes [Dennis], her mother a widow living with them and she appears to be well off; we went home with our friend William Done. [Doan]92 13th of the month, 5th of the week [13 Dec.]. Our beloved friend. Nicholas Brown, came to see us. We went to the Monthly Meeting, now some snow on the ground. There are a great number of substantial friends who constitute this meeting and appear to be concerned for the prosperity of Zion and for the enlargement of her borders, endeavoring to report the testimony to the honor of Truth. Nicholas laid concern before this meeting to pay a religious visit to the families of Young Street particular meeting, which was united with; we accompanied him to Joseph Pearson's this evening; we had a solid opportunity in the family: then went to William Dones. 14th of the month, 6th of the week [14 Dec.]. Good sleighing and very cold. Nicholas and his brothers, Abraham and Joseph Brown,93 went with us to Amos Armatriges [Armitage]94 near by, after having a favored opportunity in the family. The two brothers prepared to go home after taking leave of us I asked Abraham if he felt easy to leave us; the tears began to flow and he said, ""I never did experience such feeling—I cannot go nor stay. I am concerned for my little family in the woods and I do not know how to leave you"", so brother Joseph went home without him, so we rode out and paid a few family visits and returned and had good satisfaction. (90) Buncle—no trace of this name has been found. (91) Asa Rogers and wife Mary deeded two acres of land for the Yonge Street Meeting in 1807. It was lot 92 on the west side of Yonge Street, 1st. concession, King Tp. (92) William Doan owned a part of the Asa Rogers lot No. 92. In 1877 both the Rogers and Doan families were represented on this lot. (93) The Browns all lived in Pickering Township, Nicholas on lot 5, con. 2; Abraham on lot 1, con. I; Joseph on lot 9, con. 2. Other Browns in that district who may have been brothers were: Jesse, Ira, Rowland, George, and Sylvanus. (94) Amos Armitage was the first recorder or marriages, Yonge Street Meeting, in 1804, and was also first clerk of men's meeting of Canada Half Yearly Meeting in 1810. See also fn. 27." "34 ONTARIO HISTORICAL SOCIETY 15th of the month [15 Dec.]. We started out 6 in number to Queen Street to visit some of David Wilson's people; went to Samuel Hughes,95 he being a son of Job Hughes; they received us as kindly as we could expect; we had an opportunity in the family and after it was over he wished to have an opportunity with us and he gave us sermon and appeared very incorrect in his ideas in respect to the Scriptures and religious matters. Nicholas endeavored to show him the way more perfectly, but he told him it would not do for them to dwell upon that subject for they both knew too much. It appears he took an offence at the time we left the meeting that we had amongst them. He is one of their leaders; he invited us to dine with him; his wife appeared loving and kind to us and I believe she was sorry that his mind was so disturbed; so we bid them adieu, got discouraged and returned. Called at Asa Rogers. 16th of the month, 1st of the week [16 Dec.]. Attended meeting. Dined at Amos Armitriges; Jamima now feels herself clear of Young Street Friends. Nothing to do but rest; the prospect that Nicholas had in the family visit proposed, appeared to be weighing on his mind. I felt near sympathy for him in his concern and I told him that if he had anything in view that afternoon, I would go with him in welcome; he wanted to go to James Peerson's [Pearson]; went three miles in a sleigh, a woman friend went with us, six in company, and a satisfactory time we had, our friend well qualified for the service engaged in; when we returned several friends were waiting for us that they might take leave for the last time. Friends have paid every attention to us possible, some of them have brought stores of good things several miles for to accommodate us on our ensuing journey. 17th of the month, 2nd of the week [17 Dec.]. Henry Burrel and his wife came to see us start before day. Nathan Dennes [Dennis], son of Levi Dennes, and Amos Armatriges' son Seth, gave up their names to go with us to Norich [Norwich], a hundred and thirty miles; it appeared a great trial to them on account of their unworthiness and the thought of leaving their little families. They were provided with a sleigh and a couple of good horses. Nicholas and Abraham [Brown] put their horses to the sleigh, Jacob [Albertson] and one woman took it and went on and the young men took charge of the wagon and all the horses. We arrived at York at 4 o'clock, traveled 29 miles. There was a meeting appointed at six. in the evening; it was held in a large upper room in a school house, the meeting much crowded, parliament then sitting and the members (95) Samuel Hughes lived on lot 11, con. 3, East Gwillimbury, diagonally across from David Willson's at Sharon. His father. Job Hughes from Pennsylvania, was a leading minister in Yonge Street Meeting from 1807 to his death in 1810. According to Pennsylvania sources Samuel married three times: 1, Sarah Webster; 2, Mary Doan; 3, Anna Wiggins." "PHOEBE ROBERTS' DIARY 35 thereof attended. The people appeared very solid and much tendered and many of them came to us in a friendly manner and expressed great satisfaction. One woman in a flood of tears said to me, ""O, that I could remember and do as the woman said"". Nicholas had for a long time a desire to have a meeting in that town and it appeared that his desire proceeded from Divine Authority; the Gospel stream flowed as from a pure fountain. We lodged at the hotel.96 18th of the month, 3rd of the week [18 Dec.J. We visited a couple of ancient friends of the name of Plater, [Playter]97 his wife a sister to John Simpson, widow, they came from Abington.98 Dined at George Shaw's, a friend lately come from Ireland; he appeared sorrowful; he lost his wife a little before and left three little children; from thence to the Prison; we visited several of the Departments; one young man in the Cell condemned to be executed for stealing horses. 19th of the month, 4th of the week [19 Dec.]. We bid final farewell to our two friends, Nicholas and Abraham Brown, we all being united in the bond of Christian fellowship. I thought of the time when the Apostle Paul was about to depart from his friends; they wept most on account of that word that they should see his face no more, but it was not altogether on that account that we wept most, but for the feeling of sympathy and concern we felt for each other's preservation and welfare in the very blessed Truth; our friends had 24 miles home. We started, very cold, good going. Traveled 13 miles. 20th of the month, 5th of the week [20 Dec.]. Traveled 21 miles, crossed the River Trent; 99 it was very difficult on account of the ice; it dammed up the waters, spread a considerable distance through the woods: we had to pick our way on foot some distance, with the help of our kind friend Nathan Dennes, he being a strong, lusty man; he took one of the horses and rode through the fording place and broke the ice, the water dangerously deep, the horses and wagon went through. Nathan hauled the sleigh to us himself in some places where we could not get along without wetting our feet, so at length we all got safe through; this river is as large as a common creek in our country. Traveled 29 miles. (96) Probably the Steamboat Hotel, or the Ontario House. (97) Captain George Playter received a crown grant on the west side of the Don but north of Castle Frank (sec The Ontario Historical Society Papers and Records, Vol. XXXVI, p. 11). In Toronto of Old Scadding mentions his three cornered hat, silver knee-buckles, broad-toed shoes and large buckles, always carefully arranged (see pages 241, 287-8). (98) Abington, Pa., near Jenkintown, now on the outskirts of Philadelphia. (99) Obviously not the Trent River—possibly the Sixteen Mile Creek at Oakville, or the Twelve M'le Creek at Bronte."