The Smith brothers built a mill and by 1840, the mill had a steam saw and a
grist mill. In 1871, the mill burned down, but the family then proceeded to
erect a saw mill and planting factory, where handles and staves for barrels
were manufactured. This mill ran until the turn of the century, when most of
the area had been cleared of virgin timber. (Beers, p. 16)
David opened the first general store at Stewart and became the first
postmaster.
Children with first wife, Janet Patterson, who died in Scotland: Jean, Marion,
Robert, James, Edward, Duncan, and John
Children with Margaret Lower: David (1837); William, (1839); Isabella, (1841)
and Mary, (1846).
In 1842, Robert was able to purchase his land in East Tilbury:
"To His Excellency the Right Honourable Sir Charles Baget G. C. B.,
Governor General of British North America
In Council
The Petition of Robert Smith of the Township of East Tilbury, Farmer,
Humbly Knoweth:
That your Petitioner was located byt he Honourable Colonel Talbot in the year
1832 on a lot of one hundred acres of Land in the said Township of East
Tilbury, able (?) to settlement duties which he has performed, and is ready to
pay the fees that may be required.
Wherefore your Petitioner prays that your Excellencey will be pleased to grant
him the said Lot. And your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.
Robert Smith
15th June 1842
Recommended by Thomas Talbot
I certify that Robert Smith has taken the oath of allegiance before me. Thomas
Talbot, J. P.
Obituary: Chatham, Ontario Times-Press, July 12, 1858:
"Yet Another Case -- On the 26th last, a man named Robert was found lying
in a state of insensibility on 3rd, near King, and was carried to Mr.
Merrill's Hotel. Dr. Askin was promptly in attendance; but the man sank
rapidly and died in a few hours. On the morning following, Corner Donnelly
held an inquest, when the jury returned the following verdict: That the
said Robert Smith did come to his death by a coup de soleil, or sun stroke.
The Jury also felt it their duty to express their deep regret that Doctor
(can't read the rest of the text)."
David, thank you so very much for this wonderful family history that you have submitted to us!