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From: "David Kemlo" <>
Subject: Russell
Date: Tue, 7 Dec 2004 18:11:37 -0500
References: <41B5C7F5.40400@netscape.net>


> Hi All,
> I've just recently discovered that one of my ancestors is Mary
> SMITH, listed below in the 1881 census as the wife of John RUSSELL. The
> Joseph Russell below was probably the MP for part of early Toronto.
> There is a story in my family that the York Hotel was built on land
> formerly owned by the Russell family. Also I believe there is a street
> with the same name. I'd love to hear from anyone that knows about this
> family.
>
> Married to Mary Smith, 1 December 1863 in Toronto
> Martha Russell born 1864 in Ontario
> Elizabeth Russell born 1866 in Ontario
> Joseph Russell born 1869 in Ontario
> Emma Russell born 1870 in Ontario
> Anne Russell born 1872 in Ontario
> Mary Russell born 1874 in Ontario
> Nellie Russell born 1875 in Ontario
> Gertrude Russell born 1877 in Ontario
> Alexander Russell born 1878 in Ontario
>
> Dave Foster
> http://members.shaw.ca/davesfamily/__6mary_smith.html

Hi Dave,
I would suggest you check your local library for a book called "Landmarks of
Toronto" by Robertson's. There are several volumns reprinted by Mika
Publishing in 1976. In Vol 1 which deals with YORK from 1792 until 1833 you
will find several pages devoted to Peter RUSSELL who arrived with Lord
Simcoe (Governor). (Pg. 120, 121, 122, 123, 124 + 388. During Lord Simcoe
absence, Peter RUSSELL was appointed President or Administrator. He did own
considerable amounts of land but I'm not able to verify that he own the land
where the Royal York is located. It would appear the property on Front
street that he owned and which was his primary residence (called the Palace)
was located on Palace Street (old Front Street) east of New Street.
(Jarvis).

According to an offical survey completed by D.W.Smith in 1797, the property
on which the Royal York is located was owned by the Justice Mr. Powell, his
wife, and Mr. Schofield.

Also, there are no children mentioned so I'm not sure if Peter RUSSELL had
any descendents. Upon his death on Friday September the 30th, 1808 his
complete estate went to his maiden sister, Miss Elizabeth Russell.

In the 1805 "Return of inhabitants of the Town of York" , Mr RUSSELL one
head of household, one women, one female child over 16 and 5 servants. In
Feb 1806 he sold a Negro women by the name of Peggy age 40 and her 15 years
old son. Peggy had previously run away and would appear he was unhappy with
her. He was asking $150 for the women and $200 for the boy. It does not
mention if a sale took place.

In the Assessment Rolls for 1834 his home called the "Palace" is in the
hands of Messrs. MURRY and NEWBIGGAN (Layers) The only other RUSSELL
mentioned is a Water Lot "Cultivated in Liberty" in the name of Peter
RUSSELL, (Maybe a park)

Looking at the other Wards for the same period I discovered in St. Patrick a
William RUSSELL but it does not appear he has a house of any family. The
assessment is only for "Bitches of three month and upwards" of which he
only had one and was charged sterling 0-5-0

In Volume 2 of the same publication... Oct 15, 1856 a fire consumed the
block of building between King and Palace streets and Princess and Caroline,
(now Sherbourne). Only one brick dwelling survived. Lost was the RUSSELL
Abbey (Palace) an historical site having been built by Governor Peter
Russell.

There is no other indication in these two volumes of any other RUSSELL in
York (Toronto) during the time period mentioned. However, the index
provided is very limited and there may well be other RUSSELL's mentioned in
the books.

You may find it worth your while to review the books yourself. In
additional, I'm aware of a third volume which contains information on Birth
Deaths and Marriages. It may be in your interest to reviewing that book
also for further details of the RUSSELL family in York.

Good luck with your research.
David

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