(photos and articles written and submitted by Cherylynn Ireland, 2020)
Isaac Ireland b.1776 d. circa 1833 and Susan Cornell b.1771 d.1826 came north to Kitley Township circa 1800 as part of a Cornell family group from near Schaghticoke, upper New York state, where their families had farms sharing a common boundary. Isaac and Susannah were married and had their first child, Elijah, before migrating to Kitley.
Isaac’s parents were Thomas Ireland b.1746 d.1811 and Sarah Seeley b. 1751 d. 1830. By the time Isaac came north, Thomas would have been approaching 60 years of age and had signed a petition 1775, to indicate his alliance with the Patriots/Rebels to avoid being “tarred & feathered” and having his farm confiscated.
Newspaper Article August 3rd, 1775
Isaac is buried in the back portion of what is now Lehigh Cemetery beneath one of the large trees there. His headstone was a field stone, with the letters “IRE…” hand chiselled on one of the limestone field stones. There were three or four in a row, with inscriptions lost to the elements.
Darius West Ireland and his wife, Phoebe McManus are buried in Lehigh Cemetery. Darius is the grandson of Issac Ireland and Susan Cornell.
Darius’ parents were Lewis Denis Ireland b. 1800 d. 1884. married to Alice Johnson b. 1800 d. 1892
This is Darius West’s family line.
Susan Ireland
1)Gravestone of Susan (Cornell) Ireland b. 1771 near Schaghticoke, NY. married to Isaac Ireland. d. 1826. This is thought to be the oldest grave marker in Lehigh Cemetery.
Darius West Ireland
2) Darius West Ireland. b.1836 d.1917 Darius was Susan’s grandchild. This hand drawn portrait is thought to have been commissioned to commemorate his marriage to Phoebe McManus, his second wife. (His first wife, Harriet Wood, died in childbirth.)
3) The tombstone of Darius West Ireland and his wife, Phoebe McManus. Lehigh Cemetery.
4) Phoebe McManus and Darius West Ireland, in their later years.
5) Darius West Ireland, homestead, which his son with Phoebe McManus, James Bruce Ireland, inherited. (North of Concession 9. West of Lehigh’s Corners. Intersection of Highway 29 with Kitley Concession 9.)
6) James Bruce Ireland b. 1892. d. 1937 with his wife, Bessie Peer. b. 1908 d.1964. In the photo, Bessie is holding her 1st female child, Phoebe. In front are their two sons, Cleon and Clifford.
7) The family farm James inherited from his father, Darius West Ireland. Approximately, 100 acres.
8) Bessie Peer as a young woman.
9) James Bruce died of a stroke in 1937, at the age of 55. Eventually, the Ireland Family faced foreclosure. This is the new farm Bessie was able to acquire, consisting of 50 acres. (Concession 9, half a mile East of Lehigh’s Corners, intersection of Concession 9 and Highway 29.)
10) Bessie’s farmhouse. 2017.
11) Tombstone of James Bruce Ireland, Bessie Peer, and their youngest daughter, Alice Ireland, who died of cancer, at the age of 46. Lehigh Cemetery.
12) A photo of Alice as a young woman. 1958.
13) Bessie’s obituary.
14) Clifford Ireland b. 1927. d. 1998. First born of the union between Bessie Peer and James Bruce Ireland.
15) Eunice Mary Reilly b.1932. d. 2016. Wife of Clifford
16) Eunice & Clifford’s marriage in Belleville. 1956.
17) Clifford and Eunice’s tombstone. Lehigh Cemetery.
18) Cherylynn, Linda, Cathy at the Old Family Farm. Offspring of Clifford & Eunice.
Toledo had three log schools in and around the immediate area. These schools were closed with the erection of a new stone school in the Village by the late 1840’s. This structure served the area until the 1870’s.
Map of 1861-62
In 1876, Mr. Robert Parker built a two room brick schoolhouse on King Street. Teachers of the late 19th Century included R. Evans 1872-76; Hincks Eaton 1882; Miss Emma Smith 1887; Robert Fritty aand Robert Fields 1887, J. Rabb 1888-90; W.C. Dowsley and Anthony Rape and Miss Sexton. Teachers in the 20th Century included Miss A.Pelto, Mable Rouck, Tommy Cook, Iva Dunham, Miss Murphy, Miss Ida Connors, Miss Pettem, Doreen McDougal, Mrs. Greenhorn, Hattie Cannon and Pearl Morrison,
With the tragic death of Miss Cannon and Mrs. Morrison in a car accident near Newbliss in 1961, the old brick structure was closed and students from the Toledo are went to either the new Frankville Public School or the new St. Joseph’s Separate School in Toledo. (Kitley 1795-1975 by Dr. Glenn Lockwood)
From Edna’s Scrapbook:
Two sisters, Mrs. Albert W Morrison aged 64 years, and Miss Harriett Cannon aged 68 years died together when their car was struck by an oil truck driven by Garnet Sands of Frankville on May 4, 1961. They lived at Jasper and taught school to Toledo. They were on their way to school at 8:45am and drove from the Jasper Road onto Highway 29, directly in front of Sands who was travelling towards Smiths Falls and he was unable to avoid a collision. Both car and truck were demolished, the latter catching fire and burning to a shell. Sands was able to escape but received severe burns and shock. He had his 3 year old son Terry with him and he was able to save the boy but he was also burned. Mrs. Morrison was the former Edith Pearl Cannon and both sisters were born at Portland. They had been teachers for many years and were very well known and highly regarded.
Toledo School- From “Kitley 1795-1975”
Class of 1924
News clipping with names for the Class of 1924
Class of 1953 Front row: L-R: ?, Tommy Freeman, ? ? ? ? Harry Talbot. Middle row: L-R ?,?, Maureen Freeman, Shirley Allen, Barbara Millar, Evelyn Eaton, Dwayne Struthers, ?, Bud Millar. Back row: L-R: Joan Foley ? Ann Heffernan,?, ?, ?, ?.
Major William Read, United Empire Loyalists and settler in Kitley Township
Major William Read came to America from his native Ireland as a young man and settled on Bison Creek in the Parish of St. George, Queensboro Twp, Province of Georgia. The Reads, Lyles and Russells all had come from Ulster in the northeast part of Ireland (capital city Belfast). Young William Read arrived in Savannah on the ship “Hopewell” in 1769.
There, William, in true pioneer spirit through toil and the sweat of his brow cleared the land and built himself an increasingly prosperous farm. There he also met and married Jennet Russell the daughter of his neighbours David Russell and Jennet Lyle and soon began a family of his own.
When the war broke out in 1777 William, an outspoken young man, identified by the rebels as a danger to their cause, eventually sought refuge in east Florida where his father-in-law David Russell was already in exile. There he joined Colonel Brown’s Florida Rangers and stayed with them until Georgia was taken over by the British army. He served at the siege of Savannah following which he was discharged from the Florida Rangers. He was then commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Georgia Militia and was later granted a captain’s commission by Sir James Wright. He remained in the King’s service until the evacuation of Savannah and then went to St Augustine. During the war he was taken prisoner once and clothing and arms valued at 12 pounds were taken from him. His lands and possessions were confiscated and sold.
Loyalists Arriving in Canada
In 1784 he took his family to the Gut of Canso in Nova Scotia, arriving on the good ship Argo where he attempted to farm for several years. Finding the land too inhospitable, he abandoned his hopes for success there and set off first for Quebec where he applied for land in Hinchinbrook Twp but didn’t stay there long. William Read in response to Governor Simcoe’s proclamation about new lands available in Upper Canada for settlement then moved his family to Leeds County about 1897, first to Yonge Twp, then Elizabethtown Twp, Augusta Twp, Bastard Twp & Kitley Townships. He and his family finally settling in Kitley Township on Lot 27 Con 8 near the village of Frankville.
There William Read built a home for himself and his family from a clearing in the forest and began to prosper once again. He and his wife Agnes (Nancy) Russell (daughter of David Russell and Janette Lyle) eventually had a total of 13 children. The Rev William Bell, a dour Scottish Presbyterian minister, seems to have been quite friendly with William Read as he is referred to a number of times in Rev Bell’s journal.
The Read home was located about halfway between Brockville and Perth so a likely stopping point for travellers. His father-in-law David Russell, who had fought beside William Read in Brown’s Rangers, died of a fever in St Augustine in 1782. In 1783 his widow Janet Lyle returned to Ireland with her five dependent children.
Loyalists Arriving in Upper Canada
As early as 1807 William Read began to gather volunteers for a militia anticipating that there might be future troubles. In 1812 William Read once again found himself taking up arms to defend his country when the War of 1812 broke out serving as second in the 2nd regiment of the Leeds County militia commanded by Colonel Joel Stone.
William Read’s daughter Elizabeth married a gentleman by the name of William Magee in 1822. Their two eldest daughters Euretta and Marinda both married Kirks. The Kirk and Magee families lived in Leeds until the 1840’s when they migrated to the Huron Tract and settled northeast of London along with many other Leeds families. The Kirk family lots became the village of Kirkton in Usborne Twp. Huron County, Ontario. The Magees settled nearby and had 13 children of their own.
After his death in February of 1828, at 79 years of age, William Read was buried on his farm near Frankville in Kitley Twp. Line 8. His life a testament to the indomitable will of the Loyalists who survived the losses and hardships of pioneer life to forge the foundation for a nation.
This story was copied from the United Empire Loyalists’ Association of Canada, the information is from Donna Magee UE
Clearing the land for settlement
This story is of interest to us because Major Reid, resided in Kitley Township and is buried in the Montgomery Cemetery. There is no headstone for his grave. His story makes up part of our history and our heritage. Unfortunately no pictures exist of Major Read.
For information on the Montgomery Cemetery go to our post on Cemeteries in Kitley
Montgomery / Harlem / Delta Cemetery– Concession 8, Lot 25 or 26 ,GPS: 44.713472, -75.990880- in field on private land.
The Montgomery’s were the owners of a log cabin that was relocated from their farm to Highway 29, Frankville and eventually moved to Upper Canada Village. They along with others are buried on the old family farm.
Margaret Montgomery Mar 20 1869 @ 82yrsJoseph Montgomery Sr Dec 23 1883 @ 93yrs
Margaret Pratt Died Jan 1, 1808, age 62 yearsUnknown Grave MarkerUnknown Grave Marker
Location of Montgomery Farm on Kitley Line 8
Joseph and Margaret Montgomery
Gravesites in the Montgomery Cemetery
Joseph Montgomery Sr. died 23 Dec. 1895 age 93 yrs.
Margaret Montgomery died 20 Mar 1869 age 82 yrs.
Joseph Montgomery Jr., died 24 Jul 1892, age 68 yrs
The annual meeting of this society was held at the Edger’s House, Frankville, on Thursday last. N.H. Beecher, chairman; W.D. Livingston, secretary. The treasure’s report read as follows: Receipts from all sources, including balance from last report, $811.56; expenditures, $500.78; leaving a balance on hand of $310.78. The following officers were elected: President, D. Downey; vice president P. Stewart; directors, William Enni, O.L. Munro, Joseph Hanton, William Mitchell, R. Richard, B.F. Stewart, Joseph Jones, Jas. L. Gallanger W. G. Lee; secretary, W.D. Livingston; treasurer, William Eaton.
The fair this year is to be held on Thursday and Friday Sept. 26 and 27.
The Athens Reporter and County of Leeds Advertiser
Excerpts have been taken from this paper referencing the following event
The Athens Reporter and County of Leeds Advertiser
Excerpts have been taken from this paper referencing the following hamlet for the years 1889, 1894 and 1895
May 7 1889
There was buried yesterday at Toldeo one of the pioneers of the township of Kitley in the person of Mr. George Marshall. Who passed away at the ripe age of 87 years. Mr. Marshall was born in Vermont in 1802 and emigrated to Canada with his father Joseph when but six months old. The family settled finally on the 2nd Concession of Elizabethtown on the farm now owned by Mr. V.R.Marshall, but soon after moved to Toledo and settled on the farm where he died and to which his son Collin succeeds. Mr. Marshall was a staunch Liberal in politics and a consistent member of the Methodist Church. He married Nancy Fralick, who died some years ago and had five children, Albert, Noah, Melvin, Mary and Collin. All survived him except Melvin.
Tuesday Oct 23, 1894 issue-
Toledo– Saturday Oct 20.
Husking bees are all the go.
Mr. J. Hunt, who has been very sick for the past three weeks is slowly recovering.
Special services are being carried on in the Baptist church by the pastor, Rev., Mr. Kennedy.
A grand concert will be given in the town hall next Thursday night for the benefit of the Methodist Church. A grand concert is being prepared by the home talent, in dialogues, recitations and singing. Besides this, the following foreign talent have been engaged: Miss Fannie Robinson, soprano, Smith’s Falls; Miss. Gerty Coad, elocutionist, Brockville and Mr. C.C. Slack, conic singer, Athens.
Tuesday Oct 30, 1894 issue-
Toldeo– Saturday Oct 27th –
Mr. Geo Stratton is having his house painted
The concert on Thursday night last turned out to be a success, although the night was bad and Mr.C.C. Slack of Athens was not there on account of sickness. Muss. Gerty Coad of Brockville gave some fine recitations and Miss. Fannie Robinson sang some fine solos. Besides this, the home talent distinguished themselves in singing, recitations and dialogues.
Nov 18, 1894 issue-
The Orange Lodge of Toledo in full regalia, attended divine services here (Frankville) in the Methodist church on Sunday morning, Nov. 4th, where a very impressive sermon was preached by the Rev. G.H.Porter, M.A., B.D. for the occasion.
Nov 18, 1894 issue-
Addison, Saturday Nov.10-
Miss. Adda Sexton has engaged to teach Toledo school for the coming year.
Tuesday Dec. 18, 1894 issue-
Frankville– Dec 14-
On Christmas night the Sabbath school of the Methodist church, Toldeo, intend holding their grand annual entertainment in the town hall, when an excellent programme will be presented, consisting of cantata, readings, dialogues, tableaux, recitations, pantomimes, etc. The Toledo Orchestra Band will furnish music. Admission 15¢
Tuesday Jan. 8, 1895 issue-
Toldeo Presbyterian Anniversary
The anniversary services of St. Andrew’s church, Toldeo, will be held on Sunday and Monday, 13th ad 14th inst. On Sunday at 11 and 7 pm Rev. Chas H. Cooke, M.A. of Smith’s Falls, will conduct the morning and evening services, and in the afternoon at 2:30 Rev. J.A. Kennedy, of Athens will preach. On Monday evening the annual tea and entertainment will be held in the town hall, when a programme of unusual excellence will be presented. The Presbyterians of Toledo are making special efforts to render these services unprecedented successful and their efforts will no doubt meet with a generous response from the public. Tickets are sold for 40¢; double, 75¢; three for $1.00
Tuesday Jan. 15, 1895 issue-
Toledo– Monday, Jan 14-
The post office has passed into the hand of Geo. S. Stratton. It is hoped that the post office will remain where it is and that it will be conducted as good a manner as it has been for the past year.
The Baptist concert on New Year’s night was a success. The dialogues, recitations, solos, duets, quartets, etc. were given in good style. The orchestra gave some very fine music. The proceeds amounted to $41.00
The Toledo Methodist Sabbath school entertainment, which took place on Christmas night, was a great success. The town hall was packed to its utmost and in fact some who came late could not get in. The program was excellent and in spite of the crowded way in which the children were kept it was given without much delay. The music in the cantata was very fine. The Shepherd’s scene in this was grand and the tableau part where the light was thrown on to the shepherd’s was magnificent. The small children acted their parts nicely. There were four grand dialogues given entitled, ‘Rejected’, ‘Hospitality’, ‘The Assessor’. and ‘The Irish Party’. The later represented a number of Irish men and women and the acting in it kept the audience in laughter. Besides this, there were several very fine pantomimes. The Toledo orchestra band were also in attendance and the audience acted as if they could have listened all night to their music. At the end of the program some very valuable present were distributed. The proceeds of the evening amounted to $45.
The Epworth League of this place will give a social at Mrs. Derbyshire’s on Wednesday night, the 23 of this month.
Mrs. J. Coad fell some time ago and is not able to be out.
Mrs. Derbyshire has been visiting friends in Portland these last few days.
The anniversary services in the Presbyterian church on Sunday were very well attended, in spite of the stormy weather.
Mr. Price has started a newspaper in Toledo known as Toledo Town News.
The Presbyterian anniversary entertainment at Toledo last evening proved to be a very pleasant event. Quite a number from Athens attended. Full report next week.
Tuesday Jan. 22, 1895 issue-
Toledo– Monday, Jan 21-
Remember the social at Mrs. Derbyshire’s on Wednesday night the 23rd.
Miss. Terry McLean of Arnprior, has been visiting friends in Toledo for the last week.
Mr. Glen Coad entertained a number of young people at her home on Friday last.
Miss Carry Sweet of Portland has been visiting here for the past week.
A social will be given at Mrs. Brigginshaw’s next Friday night, the 25th, for the benefit of the English church. Admission 15¢
The tea-meeting in connection with the Presbyterian church on Monday night was a success. Tea was served in the town hall after which every one went to the church where a grand program was given. The Presbyterians also gave a social in the town hall on the following Tuesday, which was largely attended and everyone enjoyed themselves immensely.
Tuesday Jan. 29, 1895 issue-
A grand ball and supper will take place at the Union hotel, Toldeo, on Tuesday evening Feb 5. The proprietor, Mr. John Foster, is experienced in managing such affairs, and, with the help of a first class committee, will make this event a success. Tickets, $1.00
Tuesday Feb. 5, 1895 issue-
Toledo– Monday Jan 28-
There was no service in any of the churches on Sunday last, as the ministers were unable to put in their appearance on account of the storm.
Miss Stella Coad, of Brockville , is visiting friends in Toledo
The socials on Wednesday and Friday nights were a success. A large number were present at both of them and they report themselves as having spent a very enjoyable time.
Mrs. Noah Marshall is very sick
The funeral of the late William Montgomery took place here in the Presbyterian church on Wednesday last and was conducted by Rev. Mr. Cameron.
Mr. Chas. Grey laid his youngest child to rest in the Presbyterian cemetery on Thursday last. The funeral was conducted in the Presbyterian church by Rev. Mr. Cameron.
Saturday, Feb 2 –
Miss. J.McLean, who has been visiting friends here for the past month, has returned to her home in Arnprior.
Mr. J. and T.Drummond are visiting their many friends in Toldeo.
A number of our young people spent a very enjoyable time last Friday night at the home of Mrs. J. Bruce.
Mrs. Noah Marshall and Mrs. G. Coad, who have been on the sick list for a very long time are no better.
As Miss Sexton, the principal teacher of our school, was sick on Wednesday and Thursday of last week, the children in her room had a couple of holidays.
Mrs. Albert Moran, of Athens, was with us on Sunday last.
Mrs. Eva Stratton, who has been visiting friends near Athens, has returned home.
We are sorry to hear that Dr. Reeve has left us and has now taken up his practice in the village of Lanark. We also understand that the family are to leave about the first of March. This is sad news for the people of Toledo, as Dr. Reeve and family were regarded with great respect by people around here.
Tuesday Feb. 12, 1895 issue-
Toldeo– Monday Feb 11-
Foster’s ball Tuesday night was a success.
The Bible society agent preached in the Methodist church on Saturday night last.
Mrs. Gallagher and Mrs. Johnson were the guests of Mrs. Derbyshire
Mr. Frank Fowler is on the sick list.\Miss. Louisa Edgar and Miss McClare attended the Christian Endeavor convention last week at Spencerville.
There is a new doctor in town. His friends live in Toronto, but he has just returned from New York where he has been for the last two years.
Mr. J. Coad is very sick.
Tuesday Feb. 26, 1895 issue–
Toledo, Monday, Feb 25-
The scarlet fever is raging in this place at present.
Mr. Derbyshire and Mr. N.H. Beecher have returned from Toronto where they have been attending the A.O.U.W. grand lodge.
The social at Mrs. Eaton’s on Wednesday night last was a grand success.
We understand that there is to be a wedding on Tuesday night next.
Our new doctor, J. Bruce Ferguson, M.D., C.M., has his office at Mr. Summerville’s. He has received several calls and is giving great satisfaction.
Miss Annie Haskins is on the sick list.
Mrs. Noah Marshall and Mrs. Geo. Coad, who have been on the sick list nearly all winter, are at present no better,
Tuesday March 5, 1895 issue–
Toldeo – Monday, Mar. 4. –
Mr. Will Stratton has bought the entire stock of goods of Mr. Parker of Frankville and will commence business in that place today. will have a good man for sure.
A social is to be given by the Christian Endeavor of this place tonight at the home of Mr. T. Hunter,
Dr. Ferguson’s brother was in the village this week.
A young men’s Liberal Club was organized in this place Friday night last.
Mr. Mackey has engaged a new clerk.
Mr. Robinson of Smith’s Falls was in the village last week visiting friends.\We understand that Dr Reeves’ family are to leave this week.
Mr. C.A. Wood met with a very serious accident on Friday last. He was removing ice from the roof of his new house when he suddenly slipped and fell to the ground a distance of over twenty feet. His wife seeing the accident summoned help and with difficulty he was removed to his room. Dr. Ferguson was at once summoned and reported that there were no bones broken. Mr. Wood’s sufferings were very great at first, but at present he is a little easier.
On account of there being no houses to rent in Toledo, Mr. Price is compelled to move his family to Frankville
Mr. Bert Wood is home again on account of his father’s accident.
Mr. W. Hull and Miss. Maggie Parker were married at the residence of the bride’s uncle, Mr. H. Nichols, on Tuesday, Feb 26 at 6 o’clock, by Rev.G.H.Porter. Only the nearest relations were present and they report themselves as spending a very pleasant time.
It is with regret that we announce the death of the late Mr. T. Sherman. His funeral took place in the Methodist church on Sunday afternoon and was conducted by the Rev. G.H. Porter. After the service his body was laid to rest in the Toledo cemetery.
Tuesday April 2, 1895 issue–
Toledo– Monday April 1 –
Great preparations are being made for sugar making. The merchants have already received some new syrup.
Mr. George Carr is very low
Mr. Horatio Eaton’s auction sale comes off on Tuesday.
Mr. J. Foster is making preparations for some improvements on his buildings next summer.
Mr. Albert Moran has been engaged as clerk by Mr. Beach of Athens.
Prof. Taylor has been doing some of his wonderful tricks in the town hall for the past week.
The Recorder’s correspondent for Toledo is not aware of the latest style when he calls the spoon that was used by the Epworth League in stirring coffee a broomstick.
Tuesday April 16, 1895 issue–
Marriage
Hull-Parker – On Feb, 26th, at the residence of H.Nichols, Esq., Toldeo by Rev. G.H.Porter, M.A., B.D., Mr. W.J. Hall to Miss Mary A. Parker, both of the County of Leeds
Tuesday April 23, 1895 issue–
Toldeo– Monday, April 22,-
Sugar making is over and the farmers have started their spring work.
Mr. Derbyshire, our general merchant, has taken over 1,500 gallons of syrup this year.
Mrs. Noah Marshall is still on the sick list.
Dr. Ferguson, our new doctor, is meeting with great success.
Toledo people were greatly excited last week over the disappearances and strange death of Miss Stevenson of Frankville.
It looks as if Mr John Foster was going to destroy the looks of Toledo the way he is moving and tearing down buildings but we live in hopes of seeing great improvements in a short time.
A dangerous yet laughable scene took place here on Friday last when a team belonging to Mr. A. Parker of Frankville broke loose from his wagon and while running away through the village they met with a washing machine agent who had a horse and wagon. As he did not get out of their road one horse took each side of the wagon and tried to get past in this way. There was a lively time for a while but the men soon got the tangle unravelled, and the agent came off safe with only a sore hip and lost hat.
It is with very deep regret that we announce the death of an old and respected resident in the person of Mrs. Geo. Coad, who passed away peacefully on Friday forenoon last Her funeral took place on Sunday in the Methodist church and was conducted by the Rev. G.H. Porter after which her remains were laid to rest in the Toledo cemetery.
While the funeral sermon of the late Mrs. Geo. Coad was being preached the congregation was somewhat disturbed by the cry fire and when some of the men went out it was found that the home of Mrs. J. Smith was on fire. Every effort was made to save the building but inside of an hour the building was burned to the ground. However the household furniture and summer kitchen were saved by the united efforts of the men. The fire started from a chimney which was burning out at the time and as the timber was old and dry the fire got a good start before anything could be done. Let this be a lesson to the people of Toledo to see tat their chimneys are always in a good condition.
Tuesday April 23, 1895 issue–
A Sad Death
Miss Stephenson, a young lady eighteen years of age, daughter of the rector of the English church at Toledo, met with her death in a strange and sad way last week. She went for a walk on Tuesday afternoon and failing to return by 10 p.m. her friends became alarmed for her safety. Enquiry failed to reveal her whereabouts and a search party was instituted early next morning but all efforts to discover her that day failed. She was last seen on the bridge that spans the creek, so that the searchers rightly inferred that she had followed its course and perhaps entered the woods Traces of her devious way were found in a swamp and woods and fields, but when night fell the weary searchers were obliged to return home, disheartened. Next morning at break of day a large number of men assembled, prepared to line out and search every foot of the country. Just as they started, Mr. Running and Constable Richards discovered the body of the unfortunate girl. She had reached the line fence between the Parker and Coad farms, within a few yards of succour and safety, when she fell exhausted. She had been dead apparently some hours. An inquest held by Dr. Vaus failed to elicit any evidence of foul play, the doctors testifying that her death was due solely to exposure. Deceased was nearsighted and it is probable that darkness came on sooner than she expected, resulting in her terrible sufferings and death.
The tragic event has profoundly moved the people of the whole community, who sympathise deeply with the family in their heavy affliction.
Tuesday June 18, 1895 issue–
Toledo – Monday, June 17,-
Chantry football club is coming down here next Saturday to play our boys a match.
The Rev. G.H. Porter, M.A., B.D. preached his farewell sermon in the Methodist church on Sunday last.
A number of our young people spent Saturday at Charleston Lake and report having spent a very enjoyable time.
We are sorry that the Addison men feel so bad over their boys not defeating our team in the last foot ball match they had. Addison has got a good team, but they cannot deny that Toledo had the best of the last match, and for that reason a large piece has been put in the Brockville Times to try and cover it over. This is all right, but when a lot of stuff is put in which is very far from the truth we cannot help thinking that they have gone a little too far. By their talk, a person would think half of our men did not live in Toledo at all, but we would like them to show us one of our men who does not live in Toledo or within three miles from it. They also did the referee injustice by speaking of him in the way they did, but we claim he did his very best and that he did not have any reason to favour our team, as most of our boys are strangers to him, while most of Addison men go to school with him at Athens. Besides this, there are several other things we could mention, but we will not go any further, because in one way we feel sorrow over their disappointment in their boys not defeating our team in their last match.
Tuesday July 16, 1895 issue
Toledo Monday, July 15 –
Many of our farmers have finished their haying and some of them won’t have enough to winter their stock.
Mr. Harry Reeve and his sister Muriel of Lanark are visiting their many friends in the village at present.
Mr. J. Smith has begun to rebuild his house, which was burnt some time ago.
Mr. Simmie Manhard and Mrs. Cornell of Athens gave some of their old friends a flying visit on Friday last.
Our students who have been going to school at Brockville and Athens are now home on their vacation.
Miss Rena Coad of Brockville is the guest of Miss Ethel McCrum
Mrs. Derbyshire is visiting her mother at Portland this week.
Mr. S. Sliter, who has been working for Mr. Mackay for some time, has left the firm and is now living at Westport.
Our Orange Lodge took in the Twelth [sic] at Ottawa this year.
Owing to a large and steady increase in business, Mr. Borthwick our new baker, has engaged Mr. E. Pennock of Brockville as helper. Mr. Borthwick is giving excellent satisfaction and finds no trouble in selling his bread any where it goes
Miss Leah Stratton is in Brockville this week on a visit to her friends there.
Our Epworth League is doing a rushing business this year selling ice cream on Saturday nights.
Miss Lillie Tallman who has been visiting friends in Ottawa for some time, has returned home.
Mr. Charles Stratton was home on a visit last week.
Dr. Ferguson in now in New York where he is taking up the practice of one of the leading physicians of the New York Post Graduate Hospital. This speaks very highly of Dr. Ferguson, and Toledo may well be proud of having such a doctor. Dr. Hargraves is taking up Dr. Ferguson’s practice while he is absent.
Tuesday July 30, 1895 issue
Toledo Monday, July 29 –
It is with very deep regret that wa announce the death of Mr. James Coad, a very highly respected person, who has been sick for a very long time. His funeral took place on Friday last and was conducted by the Rev. Me. Stillwell in the Presbyterian church, after which his remains were conveyed to the vault near Smith’s Falls. As Mr. Coad was a member of the A.O.U.W., his brethren turned out in their usual respectful manner to convey him to his last resting place.
We expect to be able to report a very pleasant event in our next week’s news.
Mrs. Derbyshire is at present in Portland taking care of her father who is seriously ill.
Mr. Harry Reeve has returned home and was accompanied by Mr. Talmage Stratton.
Tuesday July 30, 1895 issue
Mr. James Coad of Toledo died on Thursday morning last. He had been a sufferer for a long time from diabetes.
Tuesday Aug 6, 1895 issue
Toledo – Saturday, Aug 3. –
Several from here intend taking in the great show at Smith’s Falls on the 13th
Mr. Talmage Stratton has returned home from Lanark where he has been visiting friends.
Our baker has quite a curiosity in the shape of two eagles. He intends fitting them up in fine shape to show at the fall fairs
Miss Gertrude Reeve of Lanark is the guest of Miss May Pratt.
Dr. Gallagher of Bay City, Michigan, gave his sister, Mrs. Derbyshire, a short visit last week.
On Tuesday evening, July 30th, one of the happiest events Toledo has seen for some time took place in the Presbyterian church, when Miss Lena Edgar was united in Marriage to Mr. James Sexton of Elgin. The Church was nicely decorated with ferns and flowers, and long before the time of the mirage the seats were packed to their utmost. After a half hour’s waiting the ceremony was performed by the Rev. Mr. Fleming. The bride looked very charming in her handsome dress, and Toledo, we may safely say, is losing one of its most prominent young ladies. The Presbyterian congregation will especially miss her, as for a large number of years she has taken an active part in the Christian Endeavor, the choir, and in all the church work. Not only did she work for the interest of her own church, but she was always found willing to give her aid in the entertainments or concerts and of the other churches. About nine o’clock the guests and the happy couple drove to the bride’s home where a very enjoyable evening was spent.
Tuesday Aug 27, 1895 issue
Toledo- Monday, Aug 26 –
School commenced last week with the same staff of teachers
Miss Gertrude Reeve has returned to her home at Lanark
The boys are making great preparations for duck hunting
Miss DeWolfe of Athens is visiting friends here
A large number from here took in the Sell’s brothers big show at Smith’s Falls
Miss Mary Pratt and Miss Eva Stratton are visiting friends in Smith’s Falls
Our foot ball team were successful a few days ago in defeating Chantry and Harlem team by 1 to 0
Mr. Wm. DeWolfe is home from the United States where he has been for some time.
Miss Carrie McCrum has returned home from Brockville where she has been visiting friends.
A few from here attended the camp meeting at Unionville on Sunday
Miss Edith Coad of Brockville is the guest of Miss Carrie McCrum
Rev. D. McLean and Miss Katie McLean of Arnprior are visiting friends here
For a number of years back, hunters have come to our lakes and shot ducks whenever they pleased, but let them take warning this year to be careful when and how they capture their ducks.
We are glad to see the improvements that are being made in the cemetery. This is something that has been needed for some time and we hope that those interested in the grounds will make a good job of it this time.
Tuesday Sep 10, 1895 issue
Toledo, Monday, Sept. 9. –
Wild ducks are very scarce this year, though about fifty hunters were here on Monday.
Foster’s horse won a prize at Kingston races.
Bread is down to five cents
Miss Derbyshire of Norwich is here visiting her brother
Our teachers have been re-engaged for the next year
Great preparations are being made for the pic-nic on the 14th
Mr. Wm. Bell of Almonte is home on a visit to his mother
Miss Merrick, Miss Derbyshire, Mr. T. Stratton, and Mr. Weir of this place spent Saturday last at Portland where they spent a very enjoyable time on the river.
Tuesday Sep 24, 1895 issue
There was a tremendous crowd at Toledo picnic on the 14th and the affair passed off very successfully and pleasantly. The day was a little cold but otherwise was a favourable though there doubtless would have been a much larger crowd out had the weather been warmer. There was abundant provision made by the generous hearted people who did the cooking for even a far larger number than was present and everything was of the best. The citizens band, Smith’s Falls, supplied the music and during the afternoon there were games in the field and three very exciting trotting races. In the fast race D. Forth of Unionville took first money; in the green race, A.Rogers took first; and in the three minute race W. Murphy’s horse came in ahead.
Tuesday Oct 1, 1895 issue
Toledo, Monday, Sept. 30 –
Mr. C.A. Woods has been doing a little more work on his new house
Mr. W. Pratt paid a short visit to his old home last week.
Dr. Kilborn and family have moved back to their old home at Oeon [sic] station.
Mr. John Smith has his new house about finished
Mr. S.Carr and Harry Reeve of Lanark gave some of their friends a short visit last week.
Miss Sarah Brown of Arnprior is visiting friends here.
Dr. Ferguson has returned from New York where he has been walking the hospitals
A large number from here left last week to attend the Ottawa exhibition, among the number being Mr. and Mrs. H. Hicks, Miss Leah Stratton, Mrs. McLean, Mr. George Stratton, and Talmage Stratton.
Mr. J. Geo. Hunter, who has been home on a visit for a short time, has left for Springfield to attend the Y.M.C.A. training school
Tuesday Oct 15, 1895 issue
Toledo, Monday, Oct. 14, –
A sermon was preached to the A.O.U.W. by Rev. Mr. Stillwell on Sunday morning last.
The Rev. Mr. Sheldon occupied the Baptist pulpit on Sunday
Miss Schofield has removed her millinery shop from Mr. Mackey’s store to the drug store stand.
Mr. R. Percival has opened up a tailor shop in a room back of the post office. We wish him every success.
Miss Mary Pratt is visiting friends in the States
Miss McCann has opened up a millinery shop in Mr. Mackey’s store.
Our teachers attended the convention at Brockville
A number from here went to Brockville last week to hear Laurier.
Tuesday Nov 5, 1895 issue
Toledo, Monday, Nov 4. –
Miss Mary Pratt has returned home from the States, where she has been visiting friends for some time.
Our tailor, Mr. R.H. Percival is doing a rushing business. He has engaged Miss Bulford of Athens as assistant.
Mr. Will Steward has returned fomr from Nova Scotia, where he has been working all summer.
Our stage has again changed hands and is now in the possession of Mt. T. DeWolfe.
The Athens Reporter and County of Leeds Advertiser
Excerpts have been taken from this paper referencing the following hamlet for the years 1889, 1894 and 1895
Tuesday Oct 30, 1894 issue-
Frankville, Oct 28-
The new fence erected in front of the McCrea property adds much to its appearance.
Wesley Brown’s new house is nearly completed on the outside and the inside is now being plastered
Mrs. Gilroy, who has been spending the past week with friends here, has returned to her home in Athens
Miss. Montgomery, who has been spending the summer here, has returned to her home in New York.
Mr. Andrews, of Clinton, is visiting relatives here.
We regret to announce the serious illness of Benjamin Brown.
Some of the patrons think their cheese is being docked about ¾ of a cent.
Chas. Pepper is employed in the blacksmith shop of O.I.Monroe.
A hunting party left here on Thursday last for Crotch lake. The party included W.Hanton, C.Leehy, Dr. M.L. Dixon, O.L. Munroe and L. Brown
The Rev. Dr. Griffith, M.A., Ph. D., of Brockville delivered a lecture in the Methodist church on Friday evening last. Subject: “Character Building” It was highly appreciated.
Two mill wrights from Brantford are now placing the new machinery in Mr. S. Runnings saw mill and will soon have it in working order
Nov 18, 1894 issue-
Frankville, Friday, November 9-
Miss. Edith Gilroy of Athens is visiting friends here.
Mr. Don Southworth of the Recorder was in the village on Thursday last.
Miss. Lily Good is again confined to her room through illness.
Miss. Jennie Hanton has a successful operation performed on Sunday last by Drs. Dixon, Burns and Connerty, and from last accounts is getting along nicely.
The new machinery in Mr. Running’s saw mill was started on Thursday last and is giving good satisfaction.
We regret the departure of Mr. C.B. Tallman, who we learn has bought the stock of Mr. Stevens of Lyndhurst and will move there shortly. Mr.and Mrs. Tallman take with them the best wishes of many Frankville friends.
The Orange Lodge of Toledo in full regalia, attended divine services here in the Methodist church on Sunday morning, Nov. 4th, where a very impressive sermon was preached by the Rev. G.H.Porter, M.A., B.D. for the occasion.
Tuesday Dec. 4, 1894 issue-
Frankville, Saturday Dec 1 –
Hog killing is the order of the day.
Mr. Alex Compo of Athens is engaged in Mr. Running’s saw mill.
Rumors say one of our young men is about to join the Benedicts
Miss. Lilly Good, who has been ill for some time is gaining slowly.
Our cheese factory, Farmers’ Friend is still running.
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Running, of Charleston, spent a few days last week with relatives here.
Mr. Wesley Brown is about ready to move into his new house.
Tuesday Dec. 18, 1894 issue-
Frankville– Dec 14-
Our cheese factory, Farmers Friend is still improving.
Mr. Wesley Brown has moved into his new house.
Miss. Jennie Broughton left on Friday last to spend her ‘Xmas holidays at her home in Brantford.
There is a good opening here for a first class tinsmith
The officers of the Methodist Sabbath school are preparing an excellent program for their annual ‘Xmas tree and entertainment to be held on ‘Xmas eve.
Miss Dilla Percival of Brockville is visiting relatives here.
The Rev. Wm. Sparling, B.D. of Easton’s Corners delivered a lecture in the Methodist Church on Saturday evening last under the auspices of the Epworth League Subject, “Conscience” and it was highly appreciated.
It is with deep regret we chronicle the death of Mr. Ezra Ireland which sad event occurred on Saturday, Dec. 8th, at 8 p.m. Deceased was 62 years old, widely known and highly respected and was a son of the late Lewis Ireland, who emigrated here some eighty years ago. The Rev. G. H. Porter, M.A., B.D. conducted the last sad rites of deceased in the Methodist church on Thursday, 11th inst. At 10 a.m. and the funeral was largely attended. The remains were placed in the Athens vault. He leaves a widow, one son and one daughter- Mrs. E.T. Latimer, of Lansdowne, and Alfred who resides at home. The mourning friends have the sympathy of the whole community in their sad bereavement.
On Christmas night the Sabbath school of the Methodist church, Toldeo, intend holding their grand annual entertainment in the town hall, when an excellent programme will be presented, consisting of cantata, readings, dialogues, tableaux, recitations, pantomimes, etc. The Toledo Orchestra Band will furnish music. Admission 15¢
February 12th, 1889
Mr. W.F.Earl, our enterprising young tin merchant, is about to open a branch tin shop and stove depot at Frankville
March 25, 1889
While attending a circular saw the other day, Mr. Frank Ireland, of Frankville, met with a very painful accident. The saw caught his hand between the thumb and forefinger, tearing away a large piece of flesh.
Frankville, Monday April 15th, 1889
Miss. Jessie Barrington has opened a dress making establishment in our village
Saturday June 22nd 1889
A strawberry social will be held at Mr. Marney Loucks’, Frankville on the 28th inst. Fruit will be served at 7 pm, after which an evening will be spent in social intercourse. A free will offering will be taken up in aid of the fund for furnishing the Methodist parsonage at Frankville.
Tuesday Jan. 1, 1895 issue-
The annual meeting of Kitley Ag’l Sciety will be held at the Edger’s House, Frankville on Thursday, Jan 10th. A full attendance of members is requested
Frankville– Tuesday, Jan 1-
Sleighing has at last come in full blast.
Mr.A.Brownbridge is still on the sick list; also Mr. B. Brown.
A Parlor Club has been organized by the young people of this village.
The entertainment given in Brownbridge’s hall, under the auspices of the English church Sabbath school, Dec 28th, was a grand success. An excellent programme was rendered, consisting of readings, recitations, dialogues and an orchestra under the leadership of Mr. Jasper Eaton. Mr. N.H. Beecher presided. Proceeds $23.
Tuesday Jan. 8, 1895 issue-
Frankville, Friday Jan.4-
The youths of our school are to be instructed this year by Miss. Robeson, of Mt. Forest
Mr. and Mrs. C.B. Tallman, of Lyndhurst, formerly of this place spent part of last week with their many friends here.
Miss. Maggie Running of Athens, spent her holidays at her home here.
Mr. and Mrs. J. Mitchell, of Brockville, spent a few weeks here the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Mitchell.
Mr. Robt. Soper, who represents the T.Milburn & Co., of Buffalo is renewing old acquaintances here.
Mr. C. Dowsley and H.H. Elliott returned to Queen’s college on Monday after spending their holidays with their parents here.
Mr. H.K. Webster has placed a street lamp at the rear of his store for the benefit of the public.
Another of the oldest landmarks of this place has passed away in the person of Mr. Richard Hanton, sr., who departed this life on Wed., Jan. 2nd at the advanced age of 81 years. The funeral took place at his late residence on Friday at 10:30 a.m. and was conducted by the Rev. Mr. Stevenson, after which the remains were conveyed to the family burying ground.
Tuesday Jan. 15, 1895 issue-
Kitley Agricultural Society
The annual meeting of this society was held at the Edger’s House, Frankville, on Thursday last. N.H. Beecher, chairman; W.D. Livingston, secretary. The treasure’s report read as follows: Receipts from all sources, including balance from last report, $811.56; expenditures, $500.78; leaving a balance on hand of $310.78. The following officers were elected: President, D. Downey; vice president P. Stewart; directors, William Enni, O.L. Munro, Joseph Hanton, William Mitchell, R. Richard, B.F. Stewart, Joseph Jones, Jas. L. Gallanger W. G. Lee; secretary, W.D. Livingston; treasurer, William Eaton.
The fair this year is to be held on Thursday and Friday Sept. 26 and 27.
Tuesday Jan. 29, 1895 issue-
Mr. Wm. Montgomery, Frankville, died on the 21st inst., aged 58 years.
Mr. W.D. Livingston of Frankville, the well known apiarist of that locality, had , last spring count, 30 colonies. His increase was 22 full colonies and 1000 lbs of comb and extracted honey. Mr. L. had difficulties to contend with that would have discourages less preserving men in the apiary, but these are about overcome and he will soon reap the reward he so well deserved. His stock is in fine condition at present.
Frankville– Friday, Jan. 25-
Another of the well known residents of this place has passed away, after a few days illness in the person of Mr. Wm. Montgomery, sr., who departed this life on Monday, 21st inst., at the advanced age of 66 yrs. Mr. Montgomery was an extensive buyer of livestock for the Montreal Market and his dealings have always been of such nature as to gain for him the esteem of those with whom he did business. The obsequies took place on Wednesday to the Presbyterian church, Toledo, where the Rev. J.J. Cameron preached a very appropriate sermon for the occasion from II Timothy 1st chap., 10th verse. The family have the sympathy of the whole community in their sad bereavement.
Miss Jennie Broughton has returned home after an absence of two months.
Rev. J. Wilson gave a lecture in the Methodist church on Friday, 18th Jan., under the auspices of the Epworth League. Subject: “Electricity.” It was highly appreciated.
Our saw mill is running full blast under the management of Mr. Cadwell, of Athens.
Tuesday Feb. 12, 1895 issue-
At the annual meeting of Farmers’ Friend cheese factory, Frankville, the following officers were selected for 1895: Salesman, Mr. Smith; secretary, W.D. Livingston; treasurer, A.H.Parker; auditors, Jos. Coad, Enos Soper; committee. Wm. Eaton, J.Loucks and Jas. Jones. The milk delivered to the factory last season realized $19.30
Tuesday Feb. 12, 1895 issue-
Frankville – Friday, Feb 8-
The thermometer registered 28 degrees below zero on Wednesday morning last.
Mr. A.H. Parker purchased the Rudd farm for the sum of $2,745.
The revival services are being conducted in the Methodist church by the Rev. G.H. Porter.
Mr. W.D. Livingston is on the sick list.
A number of young people of this place spent an enjoyanle time at the residence of Mr. Wm. Eaton on Tuesday evening last.
Mr. D. Dowsley, of Gananoque, is visiting relatives here.
The annual milk meeting of Farmers’ Friend cheese factory was held in Brownbridge’s hall on Tuesday evening Jan 29th when the report of the past season was read by sec. Mr. C. Rudd. Milk delivered realized $19.30. The following officers were elected: Salesman, Mr. Smith; secretary, W.D. Livingston;
treas, A.H.Parker at a salary of $20 each. Auditors, Jos. Coad, Enos Soper. Mr. Jones was re-engaged as cheese maker for another year.
Tuesday Feb. 26, 1895 issue–
Benson S. Brown died at his residence near Frankville on Saturday night last. Funeral today (Tuesday) at the Methodist church, Addison under the auspices of the A.O.U.W.
Tuesday March 5, 1895 issue–
Frankville, Saturday, March 2nd,-
Election is the order of the day.
Mr. Charles Cross is confined to his home with quinsy.
Alfred Lyang, of Merrickville, is visiting relatives here
The saw logs are coming in at a lively rate.
The many friends of Mr. W.D. Livingston will be glad to hear he is gaining slowly and hopes are entertained of his recovery.
Mr. Price, tailor, of Toledo, is moving into the village
The Rev. Mr. French of Lombardy delivered a missionary address in St. Thomas’ church on Sunday morning to a large congregation.
Mr. A.H. Parker, merchant, has sold his entire stock to Mr. Wm. Stratton of Toledo. The Reporter bespeaks a fair share of public patronage for Mr. Sutton.
Tuesday March 12, 1895 issue–
Last week the Reporter printed labels for the apiary of W.D. Livingston, Frankville and for the maple syrup manufactory of Levi Monroe Addison. These little advertisers do not cost much and greatly enhance the appearance of the cans containing the liquid sweeteners they describe. We have paper specifically suited for the purpose. Send or call and get an estimate for what you require. The name of the producer attached to an article is a guarantee of excellence and always has weight with the buyer.
Tuesday March 19, 1895 issue–
Frankville, Friday March 15 –
Mr. W.D. Livingston is now convalescent.
Mr. George Seeley of Brigtown has retired and moved to this vicinity.
Mrs. Woods of Morton is quite poorly at her brother’s residence Mr. Wesley Brown.
Miss Morrison of Soperton is visiting relatives here.
Miss. Ladoma Eaton had the misfortune to fall and sprain her ankle last week.
Mr. Price Tailor of Toledo has moved to our village.
We regret to announce the serious illness of Master Bruce Ireland
Mr. and Mrs. R.N. Parker of Brockville spent last week visiting relatives here.
A sugar party will be held at the Rev. G.H. Porter on Friday evening next. Proceeds for church improvements funds.
The Foresters had an oyster supper on Monday evening in their lodge room where they spent an enjoyable time.
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Ireland left here on Wednesday last for Dakota where they intend making it their future home.
Tuesday March 26, 1895 issue–
A week ago it was reported that Mr. David Dowsley of Frankville, the well known auctioneer, was dangerously ill. Since that time, we are pleased to say, his malady has taken a favourable turn and he is now in a fair way for recovery.
Tuesday April 2, 1895 issue–
Frankville – Saturday, March 30-
Sugar making has commenced.
Our cheese factory opened on Tuesday, 19th, under the management of J. Jones.
Mr. and Mrs. L.J. Cornwell of Stratford were te guests of Mr. and Mrs. R. Richads last week.
Mr. Harry Boulgar left last week for Gananoque where he has secured a situation on the railroad. Harry has many warm friends here who regret his departure and wish him success in his new situation.
The many friends of Mr. David Dowsley will be pleased to learn that he is gaining slowly and hopes are now entertained of his recovery.
Form another correspondent.
Monday, April 1 –
We are cultivating at present a species of the ‘genus hominis.,’ known generally as cranks.
Another of our most prominent young men, in the person of Mr. C. Eaton, has ventured into the matrimonial arena, taking unto himself one of Athens’ fair – Miss. L. Niblock.
Messrs. C. Leehy, L.Brown, W. Hanton, S. Leehy, A. Rabb and W. Brownbridge with the aid of a rifle, shot gun and two hounds, succeeded in securing three fine specimens of the raccoon.
The members of the Parlor Club decided to close their meetings on account of the bad roads and stress of work, and on Tuesday evening, having invited their parents, they all met to partake of oysters and cake. It was needless to ask how any one enjoyed it, as the bright merry faces and pleasant conversation, mingled with joyous laughter, spoke for themselves. Having partaken of the refreshments, the tables were cleared and a programme, prepared by the members, was given as follows, with Mr. Wm. Richards in the chair:
Opening selections, orchestra; Speech, chairman; Vocal, ‘Remember you have children of your own;’ Reading , Miss. L. Mitchell ; Selection, orchestra; Reading, Miss. A. Richards; Vocal solo. Mr. F. Eaton; Address, Mr. H. Leehy; Address, M.J. Loucks; Duet, Miss I. Mitchell and Mr. J. Eaton; Chorus, Glee Club.
The meetings of the Parlor Club have had a most beneficial effect on the young people, both in intellectual and a social way, and it is hoped that the young people of Frankville will always continue to manifest the same interest in recital and literary work, and may success crown their efforts.
Tuesday April 16, 1895 issue–
Frankville – Saturday, April 13,-
At the closing session of the Frankville Epworth League, Mr. Jos. Jones, the president, was presented with an address and a handsome bamboo table, as a slight token of esteem and a souvenir of his official term. Although the membership of the League is less numerous than last year, owing to the strict enforcement of the law respecting the pledge the interest has been well maintained, with unbroken harmony and increasing spiritual life. The Sabbath evening prayer and praise meetings, under the auspices of the League, will go on as usual during the summer.
Friday, April 13,-
Mr. H.K. Webster has made an assignment to Mr. Omer Brown of Delta.
Miss Birdie Vanlone of Delta, it the guest of her brother, Mr. Wm. Vanlone.
Mr. T. Dowsley, we are sorry to report, is very ill with pneumonia.
Miss Maud Duc of Silver Brook is the guest of Mrs. H.K. Webster.
Mr.H.H. Elliot of Queens College is home for the summer holidays.
Miss. Louisa Edgar of Toledo was the guest of the post master on Wednesday last.
The public school scholars gave a concert in the school house on Thursday afternoon last. Quite a number of visitors were present and report having an enjoyable time.
The Methodist church was nicely decorated for the Easter services. The choir rendered some suitable selections for the occasion.
Tuesday April 16, 1895 issue–
Trickey – Henderson.- On April 3rd, at the Methodist parsonage, Frankville by the Rev. G.H. Porter, M.A., B.D., Mr. Melvin O. Trickey to Miss Lotitis Jane Henderson, both of County of Leeds
Tuesday April 23, 1895 issue
Toledo people were greatly excited last week over the disappearances and strange death of Miss Stevenson of Frankville.
Tuesday June 18, 1895 issue–
Frankville, Saturday, June 15-
Rain is much needed in this section
The Methodist church is undergoing some necessary repairs
Mr. and Mrs. Darius Ireland and Mrs. M. Ireland spent a few days last week visiting Mrs. E.T. Latimer of Lansdowne.
Mr. O.L. Munroe has the cellar wall of his house completed.
A union social was held at the parsonage on Friday evening last, when a very enjoyable time was spent.
The Rev. G.H. Porter, M.A., B.D. preached his farewell sermon on Sunday morning last to a large congregation. The rev. gentleman, during the two years as pastor, has made many warm friends here and many join with us in wishing him success in his new field of labor.
A.H. Parker is selling his store now occupied by Mr. B. Crait.
Tuesday July 9, 1895 issue
Frankville, Saturday July 6 –
Farmers are nearly through haying.
Miss May McGuire of Brockville is the guest of Miss Josie Brombridge.
Mr. Troop of Prescott is visiting friends here
A number of young people of this place spent an enjoyable time at the residence of Mr. Sloan Leehy on Friday evening last.
A new tin shop is being opened up here.
Miss Lucy Easton of Eastons’ Corners and Miss Hattie Easton of Merrickville are visiting friends here.
Mr. O.L Munroe has moved his house on the lot in the village, which makes quite an improvement.
The trustees of our school intend making some improvements in our school house during the holidays.
A baseball team is being organized here.
Mr. and Mrs. R. Dowsley are guests of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Dowsley
Rev. Mr. Stevenson, pastor of St. Thomas’ church is at present seriously ill.
Tuesday July 16, 1895 issue
Frankville – Monday, July 15,-
The rain of last week was much needed.
Mr. Richard Running is nicely recovering from a serious cut on the hand.
Rev. Mr. Stephenson, pastor of the English church, died on Sunday, 7th, and was taken to the Brockville cemetery on Wednesday.
Many are preparing to take a trip on the B&W, at the time of the excursion to UnionPark and among the Thousand Islands on Thursday next.
Mr. J.C. Eaton has at present the largest class of pupils on the piano and organ of any other teacher in Leeds and county. Mr. Eaton has many excellent selections of his own composing, principally for piano.
Mr. A. James filled the pulpit on Sunday, 14th, in the absence of the Rev. Mr. Stilwell, pastor
Mr. Ed Moles of Athens was in our village on Sunday last with his bicycle.
Our merchants are causing a large excitement.
Tuesday July 30, 1895 issue
Frankville Saturday, July 27 –
Mr. J. Bullis is doing a rushing business in the meat line.
Master B. Dowsley of Kingston is visiting his grandfather, Mr. D. Dowsley
The trustees of our school have engaged the service of Miss Barnett of Robison’s Mills to teach our school the remainder of the year.
The Rev. Mr. Stillwell, who has been confined to his house for the past two weeks, is now convalescent.
The trustees of our school are having some improvements made on our school house during the holidays. Messrs. VanLoon & Hanton have the contracts, for the sum of $280.00.
A good ball match took place here on Saturday evening last between the Lombards and the house team.
Mr. J.Loucks of Picton is home spending his vacation.
Mr. D. Dowsley was in Brockville last week and received a large list of special prizes for the fall fair.
Tuesday Aug 6, 1895 issue
Frankville– Aug. 1 –
Our new tinsmith is doing a good business
Mr.Roland Downey is camping on Delta Lake.
Miss Flossie Edgers has returned home from a very enjoyable visit amongst friends
All of the people in this vicinity are looking forward to the two great fairs of this district, Unionville and Frankville. The full description of the special attractions to be seen only at Unionville fair, which appeared in last week’s Reporter, were eagerly read by our citizens. Nearly every one exclaiming, “I’ll be there”
Mr. E. Lewis and wife of Carleton Place are the guests of Miss. Lodema Eaton
Mr. D.McDonald and Miss Good, Carleton Place, were the guests of Thos. Good at the Brownbridge house last week.
Mr. McDougall of Brockville comes to our village frequently of late. ‘Tis said on special business.
The choir of the Methodist church here are going to have a social shortly at the residence of Wm. Eaton.
Miss Millie Stewart of Frankville is visiting Mrs. A.W. Judson of Glen Elbe
Tuesday Aug 13, 1895 issue
Mr. D. Dowsley, Frankville, is spending a week at Charleston, and is catching his full share of the fish.
Tuesday Sep 10, 1895 issue
Frankville, Friday, Sept. 6. –
Some necessary improvements are being made in the rectory
Dr. Dixon is at present on the sick list.
Mr, and Mrs. R. Parker of Brockville are visiting relatives here.
Mr. Geo. Holmes, who has been seriously ill for the past two weeks is now convalescing
Miss Katie and Blanche Leehy of Brockville are visiting relatives here.
Mr. and Mrs. A.H. Parker left on Monday for Toronto exhibition.
Farmers are beginning to fill their silos
A very happy event took place here on Wednesday evening, the occasion being the marriage of Mr. Alfred Ireland to Miss Minnie Reynolds, eldest daughter of Mr. John Reynolds. The union was performed by the Rev. M.J. Spratt at the R.C. Church, Toledo in the presence of a large number of invited guests. The bride was assisted by Miss Maggie Hanton, while Mr. Wm. Reynolds acted as best man. After the nuptial knot was tied the happy couple and guests repaired to the brides residence where a sumptuous repast had been prepared. All join in wishing them a happy wedded life.
Tuesday Oct 8, 1895 issue
Frankville, Monday, Oct 7, –
Mr. S.J. Stevenson of Ottawa was the guest of Mr. J. Richards last week.
Miss Gertie Coad, Brockville, is visiting her many friends in this vicinity.
A very quiet wedding took place at Mr. Enos Sopers, on Wednesday last it being the marriage of Miss. Etta to Mr. W.W. Devitt of New York City. After the wedding breakfast the happy couple left for their home in New York.
Miss Morrison, Soperton, was the guest of Mr. Enos Soper last week.
Miss Devitt of Easton’s Corners and Miss Ida Bates, Elbe Mills, are guests of Miss Cynthia Soper.
Mr. Hill Richards is a happy man. It’s a girl.
Will Dowsley has returned to Queen’s College, Kingston.
Dr. L.M. Dixon is improving in health. We hope to see him around in a short time.
Rumor says another wedding is soon to take place.
Mr. O.L. Munroe is drilling a well at the rear of his lot
Mr. Wm. Dowsley, jr., sad H.H. Elliott, who have been spending the summer at home, returned to Queen’s College, Kingston on Thursday last.
Mr. R. Brownbridge, proprietor of the Florida House, has made considerable improvements to his house, adding much to its appearance.
Tuesday Nov 12, 1895 issue
Frankville, Monday Nov 11, –
One or two cases of scarlet fever are reported here.
Mr. O.L. Munroe has moved into his new house.
Mr. R. Hanton has moved to Athens to reside
The special sermon to the Chosen Friends was preached by the Rev. R. Stilwell on Sunday at 2.30 p.m.
Mr. W. G. Richards has engaged a fine brick residence with Mr. Lyman Brown for his farm of 100 acres, paying the difference of $2,300.
We understand that Messrs. Jones & Robb have purchased the Farmers’ Friend cheese factory from Messrs. Smith & Knapp.
Tuesday Dec 10, 1895 issue
Frankville, Friday Dec. 6. –
Miss Burnett has been re-engaged to teach our school for the coming year.
Rev. R. Stilwell is this week conducting a series of revival services at the Leehy appointment.
Mr. Lyman Brown has moved to our village.
Miss Louisa Crummy, who has been in Dakota for the last two years, is home on a visit to her parents, Mr. and Mrs. R. Crummy.
Miss Gerty Gallagher is visiting friends in Brockville
The annual milk meeting of Farmers’ Friend Factory was held in Brombridge’s hall on Tuesday evening last, when the report of the season was read by the Sec’y. W.D. Livingston On motion of J. Loucks, seconded by G. Percival, Mr. C.A. Wood took the chair for the evening. Mr.J.Jones was appointed salesman. W.D. Livingston, secretary, and A.H. Parker, treasurer. Mr. John Webster of Brockville was present and made a speech on the manufacture of cheese, also speaking of the high reputation that Farmers’ Friend factory had. He said it stood as high as any in the Brockville district, and hoped it would continue so.
Miss Rettier of Napanee is the guest of Miss Laura Mitchell
From the pages of The Athen’s Reporter and County of Leeds Advertiser, Tuesday Aug 20, 1895 issue we have learned a bit about the annual Fair held in Frankville. Unlike the fair held at Unionville, it appears to be a smaller county fair. The list of prizes and judging catagories gives us some idea into what the fair was like.
If you read further down this page after the list of prizes, The Athen’s Reporter of Oct 1st, 1895 gives an account of a day at the fair.
The officers of the Frankville Fair Association, recognizing the fact that the cash and special prises that have been so freely given by he businessmen of the surrounding towns and villages have been of great help in bringing our fair up to its high standard as a Township Show, desire to once more take this opportunity of returning thanks to all those that have contributed so generously to the success of our fair.
John F. Wood, M.P., Brockville Cash $20.00
Walter Beatty, M.P.P., Delta “ $10.00
Montreal Bank, Brockville Branch “ $10.00
Toronto Bank, Brockville “ “ $10.00
Molson’s Bank, Brockville “ “ $10.00
Molson’s Bank, Smith’s Falls, “ “ $10.00
Union Bank of Canada, Smith’s Falls “ $10.00
Jas. Cummings, Lyn “ $ 5.00
W.A.Edgers, Frankville “ $ 5.00
R.Brownbridge, Frankville “ $ 5.00
D.Derbyshire, Brockville “ $ 5.00
R.Bowie, Brockville “ $ 5.00
W.H.Comstock, Brockville “ $ 5.00
Pair General Purpose Horses
The James Smart Manufacturing Company, Brockville, One Dandy Perfection coal stove, value $6.00, to first.
William Johnston, Dealer in Dairy Produce, Brockville, One bag of sale, value $1.25 to second.
Pair Carriage Horses
Central Canada Coal Company (limited) Brockville. James Reynolds Secretary. When in want of any kind of coal, call on us before purchasing elsewhere. One ton of coal in yard, value $5.00 to first.
John Briggs & Sons, Sash & Door Factory, Brockville- Goods to the value of $1.50 to second.
Pair of Roadsters
Cossitt Bros, Agricultural Instruments, Brockville-One set mowing maching knives, value $3.50 to first.
D.Allport, Proprietor Smith’s Falls Woolen Mill.- One piece of flannel, value $1.25 to second.
Pair Carriage Horses Sixteen Hands, to be Driven by a Lady
J,R.McNish, General Produce Merchant, Brockville, Cash $4.00, to first
WR.Gardiner, Manager Edged Tool Works, Brockville, One axe and helve [sic], value $1.50 to second.
Single Driver, to be driven by owner’s wife or daughter
R.W.Steacy, jeweller, Smith’s Falls, Piece of silver ware, value $3.00 to first
D.W. Downey, Boot & Shoe Store, Brockville – One pair of Ladies’ boots, valu $1.50 to second
Single Roadster
A.S. Ault & Co, coal merchants, Brockville. Farmers and blacksmiths will find it to their own advantage to call on us when in town for either stove or blacksmith coal. Stove coal was sell for $5.00 per ton in our yard., Office, Kings st. east.- Ten lengths 4 inch sewer pipe, value $3.00 to first
G.A.Rudd, manufacturer of Harness, buggy tops, &c. -\One whip, value $1.50 to second.
Three Year Old Colt in Harness
William Gilroy & Co., general merchants, Smith’s Falls- One carriage rug, value $1.75 to first
Copy of the Brockville Times to the second, value $1.00
Bicycle Race, Ladies
E.J.Scott, jeweller, Smith’s Falls- Ladies’ Ring, value $4.00 to first
R.Davis & Sons, merchants, Brockville – One Silk handkerchief, value $1.00 to second
Cow showing most milking points
Smith & Knapp. Cash $5,.00 – $3.00 to first and $2.00 to second, Competition open to Patrons of Barlow’s and Frankville cheese factories only.
Collection of Oil Paintings
R.H.Smart, hardware merchant- Carpet-sweeper, value $2.50 to first
Allen Turner & Co., druggists, Brockville – Selection of tube colors and brushes, value $1.25 to second.
Collection of Crayon Drawings
W.Johnston, druggist, Smith’s Falls- Fancy case, value $1.50 to first
Copy of Weekly Times to second
Collection of Water Colors
A.H. Swarts, furniture dealer and undertaker, Brockville. Call and see my stock and you will be surprised at the wonderful low prices. –One bamboo table, value $1.50 to first; Copy of Brockville Times, value $1.00 to second
Colony of Working Bees
Cossitt Bros. Ag’l Implements Mfg., Brockville- One set mowing machie knives, value $3.50 to first
William Martin, general agent Massey Harris Mfg. Co., Brockville – Cash $2.00 to second.
Display of Honey
Agricultural Society – $4.00 to first
Alex. McCrady & Son’s Brockville – Pair Driving mitts, value $3.00 to second
Twenty Pound Crock of Butter
The Rathbum Co., dealers in lumber, sash, doors and factory goods, coal, all sizes, best quality and at lowest prices; also bran, shorts, Flour and feed – 100 lbs, Diadem flour, value $2.50 to first
Collection of Fruit
John Culbert, Rock Bottom Grocery, Brockville- Caddy tea value $2.00 to first, copy of the Weekly Recorder to second
Two Colored Cheeses
D.Derbyshire, produce dealer, Brockville- Cash $5.00-$3.00 to first and $2.00 to second
Two White Cheese
W.J.Cluff, dealer in cheese factory supplies, dairy products and general insurance agents, Brockville- Cash $2.00 to first
T.Gilmour & Co., wholesale grocers, Brockville- One caddy tea, value $2.00 to second
Display of Fancy Work
R. Hawkins, Tinsmith, eavetroughing and dealer in Stoves and Cooking Ranges – A Bird Cage value $1.25
Artificial Paper Flowers
Charles C. Lyman & Co., dry goods merchants, Brockville- Oil cloth floor mat, value $1.00
Best Looking Young Lady
William Coates & Son, practical opticians, Brockville – One silver necklace $1.00, prize winner to call for prize
Best Matched Pair of Cows
E.G. Dobbie, hardware merchant Brockville- Set knives and forks, value $1.50
Mantle Drape
C.M. Babcock, staple and dry goods Merchant, Brockville – One umbrella, value $1.00
The Athen’s Reporter and County of Leeds Advertiser Tuesday Oct 1, 1895 issue
Frankville’s Big Exhibition
The Exhibition Went on “Lively all the While” – The people were there in Thousands and Everybody had a Great Big Time, –
Thursday morning opened up pretty glum and gloomy for the managers of Dave Dowsley’s big show, but about noon the clouds brook away, the sun showed its face for the rest of the day and the exhibitors made a big rush and push to exceed all the township and many other county fairs in Eastern Ontario.
The show of horses was pronounced by competent judges to be the largest and best of all the fairs in this section, and while the Reporter is not an expert in horse lore, we must coincide with the universal verdict.
Cattle, sheep, and swine were shown in large quantities and were a marked improvement on all former exhibits in breeding…… (page ripped and part of this story is missing)…..and quantity of root crop, and we have attended nearly every exhibition of the Frankville fair and have no hesitation in saying that the display was the best ever seen there. We would, however, suggest to the managers that if more care were exercised in placing each class or variety of exhibits together and putting a couple of windows more in front end of Main hall it would add very materially to the convenience of visitors who wish to thoroughly inspect the various exhibits.
Outside on the grounds, the last afternoon, the fun was fast and furious. The trials of speed drew a large crowd to the side of the track.
The Merry-go-Round did not get into running order until late in the afternoon of the last day, but from that until the close every space was occupied. The musical wonder was there also and drew a fair sized crowd. The darkey, barber acrobat, and grey eyed Annie combination came in for a share of attention. A tintype gallery, a number of Aunt Sallies, and a phonograph man, each tried and fairly succeeded, in drawing a few shekels from the pockets of the crowd.
In the inner circle “Uncle Dave” mounted a stocky mare, ‘wearing the same white “Greely plug” that has done duty for so many years, was the High Muckety-Muck of the sports. A barrel race, wheelbarrow race, running race (forward and backward), smoking race, run and jump, bun feed, and pig race were all run off in lively time and afforded and endless amount of fun for the spectators.
On the track, Moonstone, Bayonet, Texas Pointer, and Daisy had a close contest for supremacy, with the result that Bayonet got 1st, Moonstone 2nd, and Texas Pointer 3rd place.
A bicycle race was wheeled off between the heats and resulted in Brownlee 1st and Moles 2nd.
The baby show attracted a lot of interested spectators. Mayor Culbert and the Recorder man acting as judges. They could not do better than to award the prize to an Athens baby, seeing that the judges at Unionville were partial enough to award the prize for the best looking young lady to that classic village. Mrs. Alex. Green was awarded the special prize.
The prize list will be published in the Recorder as soon as the secretary gets it in shape for publishing and it can be relied upon as correct and official.
Area of Lehigh Corners on map of 1861-62 (photo #1)
This community is situated on the southern fringe of Frankville, straddling No.29 Highway. In the late 1800’s a toll gate was operated here on the old Victoria Macadamized road running between Brockville and Smith’s Falls.
The original settler was Gideon Leehy, somewhere around 1800. The spelling of the family name was changed to “Lehigh’ by Gideon’s grand-daughter.
The original homestead was split by No.29 Highway when it was constructed as a macadamized road in 1852. The highway from Brockville to Smiths Falls was known as the Victoria Macadamized Road in honour of Queen Victoria. It became No. 29 when absorbed into the provincial road system in 1927.
The first crude road through the Leigh’s- Frankville area ran half a mile east of the modern highway. A rough dirt road muddy in the spring and fall, connected this route with Lehigh’s.
Farmers in this area sent their milk to the Frankville Cheese Factory, a mile or so up the road.
The original Lehigh family home burned in 1866, and Lyman Brown, who had married one of the Lehigh girls, rebuilt the house.
Charles Lehigh earned a reputation as a fiddler, playing at many of the social events in this area in the later part of the 19th Century. He was also known as a fine trapper.
Around 1850 Levi Kilborn ran a general store in one half of his house located on Hwy 29 about a mile or so north from Lehigh’s Corners. He was the father of two of Lehigh’s best known sons, Dr. Roland Kilborn who was Toledo’s physician for many years and Dr. Omar Kilborn, a Canadian missionary serving in China for many years.
James Hewitt ran a black smithy in the corners around 1878, and around 1900 Lawrence Davidson set up another smithy. Hewitt and a carriage maker Ben Stewart, supplied farmers with carriages, harness and wagon wheels for many years.
With the coming of the car, service stations made their appearance; a familiar station was Charlie Sands’ establishment on the northeast corner of Leigh Corners. Sands also served for a number of years as Reeve of Kitley.
FirstSchool
Gideon Leehy believed in educating the youngsters, so he put up a log school on the south side of Kitley’s Ninth Concession Road, sometime before 1820.
The school lasted until 1851, when it burned down. By this time a number of other families had moved in and a small community was flourishing.
The good burghers elected to build a stone school, which was completed in 1852. For 109 years it served the area well, standing sturdy and sound on the north side of the road, opposite the charred remains of the old school.
Lehigh School c1985 (photo #2)
In 1961, the school was phased out of the system and replaced by the modern Frankville School on Hwy. 29.
Old school records show that in 1872, R.W.Hornick was the teacher of the one room school. In 1882 the school’s budget was $200., rising to $230 the next year.
Malcome Lehigh was teaching there in 1887 and in 1896 the muster showed six Leigh children attending: Maude, Mertle, Edna, Carrie, Everett and Ernie Lehigh. The last teacher when the final class was dismissd in 1961 was Aileen Montgomery.
Lehigh’s Cemetery
One of Kitley’s oldest burying grounds; Lehigh’s Cemetery is located on the south side of Kitley’s 9th Concession Road about a mile west of Highway 29.
The exact age of the cemetery is unknown but it is probably that burials were being made there between 1800 and 1810.
The land came from part of the 500 acre homestead of Gideon and Clarissa Leehy. The Lehigh burial plot is in the extreme southeast corner of the old burying ground. Here lie Gideon and his wife the former Clarissa Kilborn and the seven members of their family.
A number of Lehigh’s Corners pioneers also rest here. The names on the headstones read like a “Who’s Who of Frankville and district. One plot holds members of the Arnold Family, among them John D Arnold of Brockville who died July 6, 1892 at the age of 76. Also resting in the cemetery are John Soper (1818-1890) his wife Sarah Bennett (1852-1906).
One of Kitley’s outstanding citizens of the 20 Century Hiram McCrae lies in this cemetery. Hiram was born in Montague Township July 2 1807 son of United Empire Loyalist Edward McCrae originally of Albany, NY. Joining the Leeds Militia, McCrae rose to the rank of Colonel. He settled in Kitley in 1837 at the age of 30 and became deeply involved in municipal affairs. Appointed a magistrate in 1853 he served in that position for 35 years until his death in 1888. He was also elected Reeve of the township in 1858, He was Warden of the United Counties three times in 1864, 1867 and 1873.
Lehigh Corners on map of 1998 (photo #4)Road Sign (photo #3)
Lehigh Cemetery photo 2016 (photo #6)Lehigh Cemetery photo 2016 (photo #5)Original Lehigh Home c1985 (photo #8)Old log home on Lehigh Road East photo 2016 (Photo #7)Lehigh Corners c1985 (photo #9)
Cliff Ireland’s Upholstery Business on hwy 29 just north of Lehigh. The little girl sitting on the sign is Clifford’s daughter. (1957) (photo #10)
Location of Fankville on map of 1861-62 (photo #1)
The first Loyalist came in 1784 and a large number settled in Kitley Township in the years 1784 to 1830. They laboured hard to build up this community.
Kitley was surveyed in 1797 and thrown open to settlers. Among the first to arrive was Loyalist Major William Read who had originally secured Crown land in New Brunswick after the American Revolutionary War, then moved westward to Kitley. He was granted 400 acres in Kitley including 200 acres on the 8th concession near the present site of Frankville. This was his home and he became one of the leaders of the new community.
Though he was past 60, Major Read organized a band of 60 volunteers for service in the War of 1812 and trained them himself. Three of his sons fought in the war. Major Read died in 1828 aged 79. His remains lie in an abandoned cemetery on his old homestead. At the time of his death, Kitley numbered 575 souls.
Several Livingston families also settled here and the 1800 census of Kitley lists David, Daniel, Duncan and Abraham Livingston. Duncan Livingston built a grist mill on his homestead a mile east of Frankville.
Another pioneer was Levi Soper, owner of the land on which now stands the village of Frankville. Ben Wilson bought the Soper land in 1826 and sold it 11 years later to John Brennan.
As a result of these changes in ownership the community bore several different names in its early history. It was known as Wilson’s Corners, Brennan’s Corners Brandenburg and Brennanville. In 1852 when a post office was established the name Frankville was adopted.
Historians are at a loss to explain why the post office chose “Frankville”. No pioneer by the name “Frank” appears in the early records.
Levi Soper was a character from Vermont who was reputed to have reached Kitley in 1800 with only a cow as his possession. He teamed the cow with a neighbour’s horse to clear both his farm and that of his neighbour. He settled on Lot 21 of the 9th Concession of Kitley. The southern section of Frankville covers part of the north half of the Soper farm. In 1826 he sold his farm to Ben Wilson, who already held Lot 21 in the 8th Concession. Wilson thus owned all the land on which the village was built. After selling out to Wilson, Soper moved west to the Read of Leeds and Lansdowne where be founded the community of Soperton.
Levi’s cousin. Timothy, settled east of Frankville about 1805 and became an agent for the settlers, bringing in supplies and taking their grain to grist mills for milling.
Early Mills
The first grist mill near Frankville was established about 1802 by Duncan Livingston on a creek a mile east of Frankville. Here grain for miles around was ground into flour. Duncan operated the mill for about 15 ears before selling out to Timothy Soper.
Later, the grist mill was converted to a sawmill and much of the lumber used in construction in this area during the 19th Century was produced here. A second sawmill stood on the West side of Highway 29 the site in the 1980’s was occupied by the construction buildings of the Brundige Construction Company.
The original Livingstone mill was located on a small tributary of Irish Lake, a mile east of Frankville and the pioneer who built it accomplished a marvel of engineering.
“Water was dammed by a long high stone wall” says author Glenn Lockwood in his book “Kitley 1795-1975”, “forming a miniature mill pond at least 10 feet deep. The dam wall was 12 feet high, solidly constructed of stone, 100 feet long. It was located between two high banks of the creek bed.”
Unlike other mills of the period, Livingstone’s plant did not operate by either plume of water or waterfall, but instead the creek water was allowed to flow gently down an incline of stone to rotate a mill wheel lying horizontal to the creek bed. The water rotated the wheel to which were attached spindles and gears which operated the saws in the mill. The main saw was vertical, later replaced by a more modern horizontal blade.
The mill ran until around 1880. The plant then fell into disuse and around 1940 a stone crusher was brought to the site to crush the stone retrieved from the old dam and walls. Now only a few crumbling remains of Livingston Dam can be seen at the site.
Many of the new settlers were discharged soldiers from the War of 1812. Each private received a grant of 100 acres, each officer received 200 acres. These grants were increased in 1816 to 200 acres for sergeants, 1000 acres for a major and 1,200 acres for a Lieutenant Colonel.
The government provided tools and necessities for these new settlers. Where the Loyalists often received no more than an axe and a hoe, the ex-soldiers were given several different types of axes, spades, shovels, handsaws, crosscut saws and building tools.
Detail map of Frankville, Map of 1861-62 (photo #2)
In the 1820’s, Irish, English and Scottish settlers flooded into Kitley, helped by free passage over the Atlantic guaranteed by the government and an offer of 100 acres of free land per family.
In 1846, Frankville boasted 50 residents, a store, two taverns, a saddler and a blacksmith. Three years later 100 persons lived there and another 150 resided at Chamberlain’s Corners (Toledo) two miles to the north.
The village continued to grow and in 1858, a business directory showed three shoemakers, two innkeepers, two traders, a tanner, a grocer, a wagon maker, the clerk of the division court and a postmaster William Smith.
Construction of the Victoria Macadamized Road in the 1850’s spurred development. The road, once called the Perth Road, later became Highway 29.
Hiram McCrae, born in 1807 in Montague township, son of a United Empire Loyalist from Albany, NY settled in Frankville in 1837 and 21 years later became reeve of Kitley, serving in that post for 32 years. He was named a magistrate in 1853 and later became clerk of the court of the seventh division of Leeds and Grenville.
In 1861 Frankville had four hotels running plus a private tavern. There were two stores, a tannery, paint shop, harness shop, blacksmith and a variety store.
Ten years later, the population stood at 200, catered to by three hotels, four blacksmiths, three harness makers, three shoemakers, two tanners, two carriage makers, two milliners, three stores and a host of other businesses.
Ben Stewart, one of the carriage makers forged ahead with the development of what he called the “Sarven Wheel” for buggies. It was a sturdy but stylish wheel intended for fancy carriages and proved to be in great demand. His factory, long since gone, flourished on the east side of Highway 29.
A brickyard was established in 1870 by blacksmith William Dowsley but he ran out of a good supply of clay by 1879 and returned to his blacksmith’s forge.
At that time about 300 persons lived in the village. But the population fell off during the 1890’s and by 1920 was down around 200.
The brick rectory that serves the church was once a hotel. Frankville once boasted five hotels and was a thriving community with three general stores.
Cheese Factory
The Frankville Cheese Factory was established by Tom Livingston about 1860. Joseph Jones and Abraham Robb took over the factory in the 1880’s and branched out to produce butter and whey. Business dropped off in the 1920’s and the factory was closed. In the 1980’s the building still stood and had been turned into an apartment block, still facing Hwy 29.
Churches
Kitley’s first chapel was Providence Church, which is preserved at Upper Canada Village as an example of the Houses of Worship available to the early pioneers of Leeds and Grenville. Providence Church was opened on February 1, 1834 and served the Toledo-Jasper area for over 100 years before being closed. It is unique in that the pews appear as they did 150 years ago, plain wooden benches without backs. A simple lectern without frills served the rector. Providence was built by the Methodists of early Kitley.
St. Thomas Anglican Church
St Thomas Anglican Church c1985 (photo #3)
Built in 1858, the venerable St, Thomas’ Anglican church stood two years empty because no resident clergyman was available to conduct services in the building.
The brick rectory that serves the church was once a hotel. Frankville once boasted five hotels and was a thriving community with three general stores.
Rev. Thomas Bedford-Jones, a young Irish clergyman who arrived in Canada in 1862, in his memoirs told of the unique situation of the church. The church had been built by Frankville Anglicans who “begged” the money all over the countryside to erect the house of worship by public subscription. He found the church still in debt to the tune of $1000.
Bedford-Jones had been appointed as a missionary to the township of Kitley and became the first resident pastor of St Thomas’
He wrote: “The church was opened by me on Advent Sunday, 1862. In 1863 and 1864 in the springtime when the state of the roads made it difficult for the congregation to turn out I had to go on begging expeditions to Kingston and Toronto on behalf of this dreadful debt, which at last was reduced to about $225. Then an appeal was made to parishioners who were chiefly farmers and for the most part with mortgages on their land. To make an earnest effort to wipe off the debt, I induced nine leading men to join me in subscribing $10. each. The balance I proposed to make up by the amount of butter deliberately given to me for one month all over the parish, with its three congregations. The amount calculated at three pounds per family per week from each family, together with our $100. was estimated to pay off all the legitimate claims. The idea took hold of the people and the money was all brought in before the first day of the New Year 1865 and the debt was paid.”
St. Thomas Rectory, once a hotel c1985 (photo #4)
The congregation of St. Thomas’ went without butter for one month in order to raise funds to pay off the church debt.
Early records of Anglican congregations in Frankville are lost to antiquity, but it is believed that services were held in private homes, with travelling ministers officiating.
The church was built of stone with a tall spire at the front. It proved to be a sturdy structure, although its steeple disappeared in a fierce windstorm in 1950. A new pyramid shaped dome, crowned with a new cross, was placed on the tower by local contractor Ernest Montgomery.
Frankville’s United Church began life as an Episcopal Methodist institution in 1878. It replaced a small wooden church built by Wesleyan Methodists in 1857. The congregation disbanded in 1968 and joined St. Andrews’. The building was sold to the Pentecostal Assembly of Canada.
Early Doctors
The main grocery store in this village, once housed the medical practice of two pioneer doctors. Dr. William F. Bourns born in 1861 near Addison , began his practice here in 1891 and served the community for 35 years. He joined Dr. Mort Dixon, a native of the village I a practice which occupied offices upstairs over the store.
Dr. Dison’s father George A. Dixon had operated the store for many years. In 1900 the two doctors bought the old Edger Hotel with the intention of turning it into a hospital. But before the conversion could take place, the old hotel caught fire and burned to the ground. When the site had been cleared, Dr. Bourns erected his own home there. The hospital scheme died in the fire. Both doctors died shortly after.
Early Schools
Levi Soper owned a homestead three miles to the east of Fankville. A school was built on part of this property. The school stands on the 9th Concession, but the road running past the school building is Morrison Road, Kitley 8th line. The school fence runs between the two concessions..
Soper School photo c 1985 (photo #5)
The origins of the original Soper School have been lost in the sands of time. It was probably a log cabin school and existed on the site as early as 1820. This original one room school was known as Otterman’s School, from the Otterman family living nearby. Later when Soper deeded the land over to the School Section board it became Soper School.
A stone building supplanted the original log school and it served the community until it was destroyed by fire in 1912. The present stone building was erected on the site in the same year. George Brundige was the contractor when the school was rebuilt. The building was constructed of square cut stone locally quarried The inside was finished with a white plaster. A raised platform was installed for the teacher. (SS # 13, Kitley)
Among the first settlers around the old school site were the Morrisons, Wilkins, Pryces, Sopers, Wrights, Reynolds, Barringstons, Davises, Mulvaughs, Steacys, Hewitts, Hantons, Brundiges, Merciers. Later the Cooks and O’Gradys moved in.
Louise Mulvaugh was a teacher there prior to 1900. In the 1900’s teachers included Miss. Cocklin (1908), Miss. Greeves; Kenneth Blanchard, Miss. Clow, Misses Nellie and Rose Judge and Fred Leacock who later became a doctor and was killed in a car accident. First salaries paid to teachers ran from $200. to $300. per year. Average attendance was 25-30 pupils but when the school closed in the 1960’s attendance was down to 12.
Brundige Construction
Located on Hwy 29 going into Frankville was Brundige Construction a large construction company that was involved in the rebuilding of many roads and houses in the area.
Collins Brundige at the wheel of his pick up truck c 1957 (photo #6)Collins Brundige at work digging a house foundation 1957 (photo #7)
Excerpts from “Leeds Grenville: their first two hundred years”
by Ruth McKenzie pub. 1967
The Livingstones also settled on the seventh and eighth concessions.The names Daniel, David, Duncan and Abraham all appear on the Kitley census of 1800. Duncan Livingstone built a grist mill which he operated for about fifteen years. His farm was on the eighth concession, a mile east of the present village of Frankville.
This village is situated on Lot 21, Concessions 8 and 9, Kitley. The original owner of the lot on the ninth concession was Levi Soper, and part of the village stood on the north end of his farm. The lot on the eighth concession was granted to Benjamine Wilson in 1830. Four years previously he had obtained the north half of the Soper property. The village of Frankville was then on Wison property. Wilson sold the land in 1837 to John Brennan.
These changes of ownership help to explain why the village of Fankville has had so many different names. In early records of the Counties Council, it is referred to variously as Brennan’s Corners, Wilson’s Corners, Brandenburgh, Brennanville and Frankville. Finally in 1852 when the ost office was established there, it was called Frankville, the name that had been used more persistently than any other over the years. Where the Frank comes from, no one seems to know.
Among the early cheese factories was one in Frankville established by M.K.Everts and Isaac Cooledge in 1866. (this differs from the information found in old issues of the recorder and times as written above)
Excerpts from the “History of Leeds and Grenville from 1749 to 1879”
by Thad. W.H.Leavitt pub 1879
Hunt’s Hotel, James Hunt Proprietor (print from Levitt’s Book) (photo #8)
James Hunt is the son of Absalom who married Maria Warren. James was born in 1850; he earned the carriage making business from his father, which he has conducted with success in Frankville and Toledo. Mr. Hunt married in 1872, Margaret the daughter of Richard Johnston, Elizabethtown. A few years since he purchased the residence of the late Captain Brennan; it being destroyed by fire, he erected an elegant brick structure for hotel purposes. He also carries on the carriage business in Frankville. (History of Leeds and Grenville from 1749 to 1879 by Thad. W.H. Leavitt pub. 1879)
The Connor Family & Samuel Connor – William Connor came from the County of Caven, Ireland in the year 1821, and settled on the 8th Concession of Kitley, from which place he removed to the farm he now occupies, near the Village of Frankville. He married, about the year 1830, Ellen Horton, by whom he had the following children: Robert, residing in Brockville; Samuel; William who died in 1850; Margaret married Alexander Morrison; Philip died in 1877; Ann married Robert Jelly; and Thomas.
Connor House, from Levitt’s History of 1879 (photo #9)
Samuel Connor was born in 1837, on the old homestead. At the age of sixteen he was apprenticed to Wellington Lewis, to learn the trade of shoemaker. Aftre a service of three ears he removed to Frankville; then visited the Western States, but returned to Frankville, where he opened a shoe shop in connection with a tannery and continued the same about twelve years. In 1870, he built a large hotel engaging also in the manufacture of cheese. Disposing of his hotel n 1876, he purchased the Robinson House, which he refitted in the most substantial manner for the accommodation of old friends.
In 1864, Mr. Connor married Charlotte Burnett, of Elizabethtown; and in 1868, he was appointed Township Clerk, a position which he yet fills. (History of Leeds and Grenville from 1749 to 1879 by Thad. W.H. Leavitt pub. 1879)
Joseph Coad
Mr. Coad was born April 13, 1842 in the Township of Kitley. He redeived a good education at Public School, and for some years engaged as a teacher. Subsequently he entered into the mercantile business with his brother at Toledo.
Store of J.Coad- Leavitt’s History of 1879 (photo #10)
In 1874, he purchased the general store in Frankville, at that time conducted by Messrs. C. and R. Richards, and since that date has carried on a large and constantly increasing business. Mr. Coad for served for several years as Secretary of the Agriculture Society of North Leeds and Grenville. He has been twice elected a member of the Municipal Council, and is especially qualified to discharge public business. In 1873, Mr. Coad married Maggie, daughter of Thomas Connor. The Dominion Telegraph Office and the Post Office at Frankville are under Mr. Coad’s supervision.
Frankville Public School c1985 (photo #12)Sketch of Dack’s Tavern (photo #11)Maxwell’s Tavern on the road to Dodd’s Corners c1985 (photo #14)Connor House, old pioneer hotel c1985 (photo #13)Looking north into Frankville photo 2016 (photo #16)Hanton’s General Store, c1985 (photo#15)Frankville going south c1985 (photo #17)
Dack’s Tavern c1985 (photo #18)
“Edna’s Scrapbook”
is a paperback book written by Edna B. Chant and was published in 1998. Edna Chant was a reported with the “Athens Reporter” for 23 years and she is the author of four books.
Her book, which is made up of news clippings from various sources, from which we have taken excerpts, gives us a glimpse into life in our area for over a hundred year period ending with stories from 1975.
While her book covers many areas of Leeds and Grenville we have only focused on the area within Elizabethtown-Kitley Township.
Frankville
The first post office at Wilson’s Corners was opened on January 5, 1841
Mrs. John Loucks of Frankville was a leap year baby. She was the former Annetta Richards and was born near Frankville on Feb. 29, 1868 and lived to be 101 years of age. In that time she only celebrated 24 birthdays. She married John Loucks on her birthday, Feb, 29, 1888. Before her marriage she was a school teacher and since that time the couple farmed at Frankville. Mrs. Loucks drove a rig from Frankville to the Brockville Market weekly, with fresh eggs, homemade butter, vegetables and maple syrup. She well remembered how she dreaded to meet an automobile as the horses never got used to them and would rear in fright. One of her fondest memories was how they enjoyed their battery radio, as it was a pleasure on long winter evenings. She was a real hockey fan, Boston being her favourite team. After the death of her husband, she lived with her only son George, who died Feb 13, 1966. Her last years were spent with her grandson and his wife Jim and Doreen Loucks in Brockville. Annetta Loucks died on Dec 14, 1869.
The Village of Frankville was incorporated in 1896. For 77 years only seven By-Laws were passed. On April 10, 1973 the police village passed out of existence and all assets were turned over to the Township of Kitley.
Raney Loucks of Frankville was killed on November 19, 1897 when he was thrown from a wagon. He had gone to Brockville to meet his son James who was returning home on train from the west and they were almost home when his team of horses ran away, and he was thrown to the road, landing on his head, dying instantly.
Mr and Mrs. James Rae of Frankville lived to observe their 70th wedding anniversary. They had enjoyed a happy and useful life, and became known as the grand old couple of Kitley. They were married Dec. 29, 1899 in Dally, Ayrshire, Scotland where they lived for their first 29 years of their life and where Mr. Rae was a blacksmith by trade. They came to Canada in 1928 and he opened a blacksmith shop in Frankville which business he carried on for many years. In 1961 he retired and they moved to a new bungalow. They raised four children James Jr., Jessie, Marion and Jean, Mr. Rae died on Jan. 1, 1970 aged 95 years, and Mrs. Rae died on Feb 14, 1972 aged 96 years.
On Feb 4, 1903, the barns of Wesley Soper at Frankville were struck by lightning in a most unusual winter electric storm When Mr. Soper rushed to the barn to rescue the cattle he found all 21 dead in their stalls. He lost 30 pigs in the fire as well as all his machinery. He carried $500. of insurance.
A well known Frankville woman, Mrs. Richard Hanton, was drowned in the St. Lawrence River in Brockville on May 2, 1903. She had been a patient in hospital but was much improved and went for a walk each day. On this day she did not return for lunch, and a search was made for her In the meantime, her body was found floating by two young boys who told the police.
On July 3, 1905, George Oliver of Frankville drowned in Saskatchewan
On July 12, 1906 fire destroyed all the barns of John Reynolds at Frankville. It was started by a young boy playing with matches. As nearly all the men of the area had gone to the Orange Walk it was hard to get help. The men and women who came had a hard time to save the house.
On September 5, 1906 Norman Godrich, aged 40, died after suffering a bad fall at the Frankville Cheese Factory. He was taken to hospital in an unconscious condition but died in a short time. As far as we know he had no relatives. He had worked at the factory some time and was well thought of.
The barns on the Henry Johnston farm at Frankville were burned in August 1908. The owner lives in Saskatchewan but the farm is rented to William Curtis. When Mr. Curtis went to the barn in the morning he found a tramp sleeping in the hay mow. He ordered him off the place. The tramp was very angry and he said he would make it hot for him. Mr. Curtis went to the factory and when he was going back home he saw smoke coming from the barn. The fire spread rapidly and all the season’s crops were lost as well as seven pigs.
Two serious fires in Frankville caused a lot of excitement on November 6, 1916; the large barn of Watson Davis was burned. It must have been arson as the fire broke out in three locations at once, A calf was burned, but the cows were saved. Al the hay and grain was lost, also some tools and a wagon. On November 7 the barn of James Smith was burned and many places threatened. Richard’s store was scorched, and also William Ennis’ barn. Men of the village worked all night to save them. W. Richards thought his store was going and he had a heart attack and nearly died.
On October 11, 1935 hydro power was turned on at Frankville.
Irene Mott was killed July 5, 1938 by a farmhand at Frankville.
Willard Wing, age 3 drowned in a water tank at Frankville in 1942
An Athens man Arthur Reed, 42, was fatally injured on July 11, 1957 while at work at the Brundige Construction Co., in Frankville. He was welding a tar tank when it exploded hurling his body into the air and blowing the roof off of the shop. He was rushed by ambulance to Kingston General Hospital but only lived a short time.
On August 31, 1958 a twister assed over Frankville causing a lot of destruction in just a few seconds. A garage owned by James Dawson was lifted from its foundations and carried 30 feet. Dawson’s car in te garage didn’t have a scratch. Trees went down like ten pins all over the village smashing several cars under their weight. A shed owned by Gerald Mercier was rolled over three times and came down again right side up. Roofs were carried away on the farms of Donald Davis and Byron Derbyshire.
On December 31, 1967, the home of Mrs. Ethel Neddo of Frankville was burned. Everything was lost, including all the clothing of her son George and two boarders Terry Reed and George Ouderkik.
A small house near Frankville was burned on April 29, 1969, occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Jordan Morris and their three children. Mr. Morris had gone to work at 6 am and shortly after an explosion occurred in the kitchen, The family escaped in their night attire.
The origins of the original Soper School have been lost in the sands of time. It was probably a log cabin school and existed on the site as early as 1820. This original one room school was known as Otterman’s School, from the Otterman family living nearby. Later when Soper deeded the land over to the School Section board it became Soper School.
Levi Soper owned a homestead three miles to the east of Fankville. A school was built on part of this property. The school stands on the 9th Concession, but the road running past the school building is Morrison Road, Kitley 8th line. The school fence runs between the two concessions..
A stone building supplanted the original log school and it served the community until it was destroyed by fire in 1912. The present stone building was erected on the site in the same year. George Brundige was the contractor when the school was rebuilt. The building was constructed of square cut stone locally quarried. The inside was finished with a white plaster. A raised platform was installed for the teacher.
Among the first settlers around the old school site were the Morrisons, Wilkins, Pryces, Sopers, Wrights, Reynolds, Barringstons, Davises, Mulvaughs, Steacys, Hewitts, Hantons, Brundiges, Merciers. Later the Cooks and O’Gradys moved in.
Louise Mulvaugh was a teacher there prior to 1900. In the 1900’s teachers included Miss. Cocklin (1908), Miss. Greeves; Kenneth Blanchard, Miss. Clow, Misses Nellie and Rose Judge and Fred Leacock who later became a doctor and was killed in a car accident. First salaries paid to teachers ran from $200. to $300. per year. Average attendance was 25-30 pupils but when the school closed in the 1960’s attendance was down to 12. (Recorder and Times)
Soper’s School c1985 (photo #2)
Soper School November 2016 (photo #1)Soper School November 2016 (photo #3)
Soper School -November 2016 (photo #4)Sign for Soper Road, school is across from the sign (photo #6)
Schoolhouse pump hidden in the brush on the corner of the lot (photo #5)
Commemorative Plate in memory of Soper’s School
Commemorative Plate (photo #6)Close up of the centre of the plate (photo #7)
Concession #1, Lot 9, in South Elmsley Township (see map)
In 1873, school trustees received the deed for a property of land from Henry Shane.
A new stone building was constructed in 1875 (or 1887), replacing an older school further down the road which was subject to arson, possibly committed by a pupil. The schoolhouse was used after hours as the community church, as well as a meeting hall. Well into the 1900s, the building was used by the Shane’s Women’s Institute.
Shane’s Corners was a small settlement located along Highway 29 near what was the First Concession of Kitley. Shane’s Corners was settled by a man named Lawrence Shane and his wife; Mrs. Shane kept a private school here at one time. The settlement consisted of a few homesteads and very few businesses. [2]
The settlement was large enough that it was able to become its own school section in the late nineteenth century. The school was known as S.S. #2 Shane’s School, and at the time was located along the boundary of Kitley and South Elmsley townships. [2]
Shane’s School enjoyed an upswing in attendance during the 1950’s, when more people moved into the area.
The old Shane’s Road running west from Shane’s Corners on No.29 highway forms the boundary between South Elmsley and Kitley.
Known as the Town Line, the road was a natural spot for school houses. Thus at least three were set up along its route, and because education knows no boundaries, these schools became union, uniting South Elmsley and Kitley pupils.
Shane’s School, was destroyed by a fire set by vandals stood on the knoll that marks the junction of Shane’s Road and No.29 Highway, was a union school with around 15 South Elmsley children attending it in 1840, though it was located in Kitley.
Halfway between Shane’s Corners and Blanchard’s Hill, another public school, also union existed in the 1840’s. It has since vanished and no historian today knows where it stood.
[2] Recorder and Times]
Excerpt from Dr. Glenn Lockwood’s book “Kitley 1795-1975”
Miss Mary Goodfellow taught at the stone school in 1905 and 1906. During her teaching Dr. Kinney was the inspector. She remembered him well as he always had the same joke: “Which comes first, the chicken or the egg?” When she returned in 1910, a Mr. Johnson was the inspector. It is interesting to note that Miss Goodfellow’s mother taught in the present school or one on the same site. Miss Lillian Taylor was also one of the earlier teachers. At that time Wilfred Pattemore taught here. Mr. Oaks was the inspector and Fred Hewitt was trustee for many years. Other trustees who served with him were Alex Findlay, Mervin Joint, Harvey Johnston, Pete Simpson, Charlie Botham and Archie Hewitt.
Shane’s School Recorder and Times Photo (photo #2)
1926 Class: Front Row L-R: Roy Simpson, Helen O’Donaghue, Irvin Hughes, Verna Hewitt, Bill Goodwin, John O’Donaghue, Verna Simpson, Anna Mae Hewitt. Middle Row: Georgina Best. Jean Best, Violet Connell, Minnie Hewitt, Glenna Hewitt, Lena Best, Grant Sheridan. Back Row: Borden Sheridan, Jim Findlay, Charlie Dorman, Lloyd Hewitt, Irvin Cornell, Hilliard Johnston – Recorder and Times Photo (photo #3)
