Every researcher has, at one time or another, come across colourful
stories about their ancestors which had little, or no, basis in fact. I am
including a few of these here. Their purpose is simply to entertain you -
they are not to be taken as factual, but have been passed down from
generation to generation. They make for great story telling, but they
should be treated for what they are. If you have any
family myths which would be of interest, please feel free to email
them.
MITCHELL - The story of Colin Campbell Mitchell arriving in Nova Scotia
in 1784 as a nephew or ward of SIR Colin Campbell has been around for
years. It even shows up on some Mitchell homepages, despite the fact
that it cannot possibly be true. It has even been embellished with a
side story of Sir Campbell trying to arrange for a suitable bride for
poor Colin Mitchell
Unfortunately the facts disprove this. SIR Colin Campbell was born in
1776 which would have made him only 8 years old at the time young
Colin Mitchell arrived in Jeddore. Also, it is impossible for
SIR Campbell to be an uncle to Colin Mitchell. Sir Colin Campbell was
the son of John Campbell of Melfort, and Colina Campbell of Auchalader.
Colin Mitchell was the son of Alexander Mitchell and Elspet Anderson. Sir
Colin Campbell was appointed lieutenant-govenor of Nova Scotia but he
was recalled to England in 1840 where he died in 1847.
WEBBER The old story of Johann Webber being related to Wolfret,
the Prince of Orange has been making the rounds for years. Not only
has there been absolutely no connection joining these two, there is also
another "myth" regarding a long lost Webber legacy via church property
in New York. Unfortunately, many people have lost money following these
legends.
WILLIAMS There is yet another myth involving Sir Colin Campbell.
On one occassion, the Governor of Nova Scotia, Gov. Sir. Colin Campbell
was taking a tour through the country and he stopped for dinner
with Richard Williams and his wife Rose (Burke). He was so pleased
with the roasted wild goose that he presented them with a deed to
many acres of land on both sides of Musquodoboit Harbor. While the
Williams's did receive land grants, it is doubtful the goose played
any part in this transaction.
BLAKENEY A popular misconception is that Chambers Blakeney, who came
to Jeddore from South Carolina was son of LORD William Blakeney.
Unfortunately, LORD Blakeney died without issue and his title was
passed on to his brother. Chambers father was William Blakeney, but
not LORD Blakeney.