Major Peter Vanalstine Alida Van Alen Allen Adolphustown Township

Major Peter Vanalstine of Adolphustown Tp.

1743 - 1800

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Pioneers of the Bay of Quinte

WHY I AM INTERESTED IN THIS FAMILY:
Peter VanAlstine is a well known figure in the settlement of Adolphustown and much has been written about him. Being an interested descendant, I have collected records below that present a more accurate story of the man. Links are provided for contemporary records that are now online.

Use these links to jump up and down this page
  1. Excerpts from some older common reference sources
    1. Sabine, 1864
    2. Canniff, 1869
    3. T.W. Casey, 1898
    4. Royal Society, 1902
    5. Pioneer Life on Bay of Quinte, 1904
    6. Herrington, 1913
    7. Lester Van Alstyne, 1974
    8. Goddard, 1980
  2. Corrected Summary - based on contemporary sources
  3. Children of Peter Van Alstine and his wife Alida Van Alen
  4. Haldimand Papers
  5. Loyalist Claims
  6. Petitions and Land Records
  7. Will and Probate
  8. Siblings of Peter Van Alstine
© Randy Saylor, 2005, major update Dec 2015



1. EXCERPTS FROM SOME COMMON REFERENCE SOURCES
A number of books make extensive reference to Major Peter Van Alstine. He is best known for being a loyalist who lost considerable land in New York and led a group of settlers to overwinter in Quebec in 1783 and then on to Adolphustown in the spring of 1784. He also was granted the site of the Glenora Stone Mills and probably began the development of the site. He was elected twice to the Upper Canada Assembly. He died in 1800, not 1811, as most widely stated.

His story has been in print for over 150 years. Below are snippets from well known secondary sources presented in chronological order as each new book could benefit from the previous one. There are errors in them and it is interesting to see how parts of one book are copied to another and how over time new facts come to light. A corrected summary is presented at the bottom of this overview that is based on contemporary sources.

Lorenzo Sabine's famous book, from 1864, mentions that Peter Van Alstine was born at Kinderhook, NY. "Van Alstine was still living there in 1775. A blacksmith by trade, in 1776 he was chosen by some loyalists to serve as a member of a committee at Albany; however, he found his opinions to be in the minority, and ultimately he and sixteen others were made prisoners and he was held for 16 days. Van Alstine left home in 1777 and joined General Burgoyne in September of that year, bringing in 30 men. He went to Canada at the convention of Saratoga, and later acted as Captain of bateaux and Major of the Loyalists in New York. Van Alstine received half pay as a captain . He asked compensation for 600 acres at Kinderhook (200 cleared). He estimated his loss at 892 pounds sterling and was awarded 466 pounds sterling." [Note that this matches pretty well with the Loyalist Claims that Peter made in 1788 which are transcribed below.]
Source: Biographical Sketches of Loyalists of the American Revolution, Lorenzo Sabine, 1864, online at Archive.org; revised Gregory Palmer, 1984, Meckler Pub.; page 881

William Canniff in 1869 wrote about the Stone Mills and stated that "about the year 1796, the third flouring mill was erected by Van Alstine, to whom had been granted a large tract of land." He went on to add,, "that the Kingston Gazette, of the 16th of April, 1811, contains an advertisement, signed by the executors of the deceased Major Van Alstime's will, namely George Meyers, Cornelius Van Alstine and Thomas Dorland, in which it is stated that the mill contains two run of stone, one superfine and two common bolts." Canniff writes a short bio on Van Alstine, mainly about his hospitable character. The newspaper clipping from 1811 may be the source of the often repeated error that Peter Van Alstine died in 1811.
Source: The Settlement of Upper Canada, William Canniff, 1869, 209/10, 662

Canniff interviewed many people in 1864/5 and his interview notes have survived. Below are some excerpts regarding Van Alstine.
  • The British Government had commisarys [sic] to give out the rations during the 3 years. John(?) Carscadden was the commisary for 3rd town, Major VanAlstine for the 4th town. [William Ketcheson]
  • Knew Van Alstine he had 3 sons and a daughter. [Mrs Bogart]

  • Major Van Alstine was much beloved [Mrs Maybee - see above link]

  • Major Vanalstine was their nearest neighbour. He had 2 sons and one daughter. Remembers when he built the stone mill. [Paddy Dorland - see above link]
  • His son Geo Sills had a UE Loyalist list. All of those who came to Canada as UEL and settled on the Bay of Quinte met at Major VanAlstines at the Lake of the Mountain to sign a document. This was in the year 1784 or 5. They were summoned? there in order to receive land for their children by order (probably of the governor). [Philip John Roblin]
  • Major Vanalstine was a thick set man very fleshy. Altogether unlike a military man, too clumsy, Robust, Dark complexion. A Dutchman and spoke broken English.

    Was very hospitable. His house was open to all who came and everybody knew him.

    When a poor man called, he would call up his negro servant (slave) from the kitchen in which they stayed and make her get something for him to eat.

    He had been through the war and knew what it was to suffer hunger and was hospitable even to a fault.

    He had slaves as did others.

    He had charge or oversight of all the refugees up the Bay

    Said to have been a Presbyterian.

    He drew a pension.

    Mr  Dougall says his father wore breeches and thinks Vanalstine did also. [p. 62]

T. W Casey in 1898, wrote these words. "Major Vanalstine - Peter Vanalstine was the Captain of the Fourth Town [Adolphustown] company and the Commissary for years. He does not appear to have had any military experience or position. He was a knickerbocker and native of New York. His title of Major appears to have been honorary. He lived on the bay Shore on the Front, next east of Philip and Thomas Dorland. He was elected to represent Lennox and Prince Edward in the first Parliament, after Philip Dorland's seat was declared vacant because of his refusal to take an oath. He is said to have built the first grist mill at Glenora - then Lake on-the-Mountain, and probably it was the first in Prince Edward County. That was as early as 1791. He had a son Allan who lived for years at the Stone Mills, - Glenora - and died there. Allan married a daughter of Jonathan Allen and there are a number of his descendants yet living in Prince Edward County. Major Vanalstine had no daughters. He had a brother, Cornelius Vanalstine, who was probably the first magistrate appointed in the township. Peter was born in 1747 and was therefore 37 years of age when he landed in Adolphustown. He died in 1811, aged 64 years, and was buried in the U.E.L. ground, but there is nothing now to distinguish his grave."
Source: Mr. T.W. Casey of Napanee, 61 Victoria Sessional Papers (No. 32) A.1898, Personal Notes (pgs 55-69), Bill Martin's web site, Dec 2004

The respected Royal Society of Canada published this in 1902. "The county of Prince Edward was of the same extent as it is to-day. It was divided into three townships-Marysburgh (No. 5), Sophiasburgh (No. 6) and Ameliasburgh (No. 7). These townships contained the overflow from across the bay of Sir John Johnson's soldiers. Here also (in Marysburgh) were located the little band of Hessians, and in these townships some of the officers drew large areas of land. Among others may be mentioned Major James Bogers, Major Peter Vanalstine and Captain Archibald McDonell. To make the representation fair, Adolphustown was detached from Lennox and added to Prince Edward. Though separated by the Bay, it should be remembered that the main road to York passed through Adolphustown and crossed at the point by ferry to Prince Edward County shore, whence it ran on to the Carrying Place.
   
"Adolphustown was one of the most important townships of the Bay district. Though small and divided into two parts by Hay Bay, it possessed an importance beyond its size or population. It was here that the Loyalists landed and from it the settlement spread to adjoining townships. In it was a band of Quakers or Friends from Dutchess County, New York, many of whom had been fighters on the British side. Major Peter Vanalstine was the leader of the soldier settlers, and Philip Dorland was the leading Quaker. The selection of Philip Dorland as member took place, and in September he started for the meeting in Newark. But there was a difficulty in the way. To take his seat he must first take the prescribed oath. This he could not do as a Quaker. This matter came up for consideration immediately after Colonel Macdonell had been elected speaker. A statement of the case, signed by Dorland, was presented, and the House at once decided that the seat be declared vacant, and a new election held. When the people met once more to consider the situation they selected Major Peter Vanalstine as their representative, and he appeared and took his seat at the second session.
   
"In Br[other] Canniff's Settlement of Upper Canada, it is stated that Peter Vanalstine was major only by courtesy and that he came as a non-combatant at the head of a party of non-combatant farmer Loyalists to settle this beautiful little township. This statement has been repeated again and again, but it is incorrect. Through the courtesy of Rev. W. O. Raymond of St. John,,N.B., I have been permitted to examine a muster roll of batteau men organized and directed by Captain Peter Vanalstine, and in his evidence before the Claims Commission, Vanalstine refers to his military service. Major Vanalstine was of Dutch ancestry, he came from near Albany, New York, and spoke English with quite a foreign accent. After living for some years in Adolphustown he moved across the bay to Prince Edward,, where he had large holdings of land and started the mill at the most picturesque spot of the Bay district, the lake on the mountain. He returned to Adolphustown and died at his old home in 1811. He was succeeded in 1796, by David McGregor Rogers, the son of Major James Rogers, and the nephew of the celebrated ranger, Robert Rogers. David McGregor Rogers was at the time living on a large military land grant at West Lake. David McGregor Rogers sat in the Legislature' of Upper Canada from this time until his death in 1824, with the. exception of one Parliament. His record, therefore, was for 24 years, the longest of any member of the Upper Canada House of Assembly. Reference to the Rogers family may be found in a paper printed in the transactions of the Royal Society of Canada, 1900. "Rogers, Ranger and Loyalist," by Walter Rogers.
Source: The First legislators of Upper Canada, C.C. James, Royal Society of Canada, Proceedings and Transactions, 1902, sec 2, 106/7, Robarts Libray

The very well known Pioneer Life in the Bay of Quinte, 1904, named some of the settlers who came with Vanalstine in 1784. "A number of family histories in PLBQ state that their founding ancestor came with Van Alstine to Hay Bay on June 16, 1784. They are: Van Dusen, Farley, Allison, Bongard, Barker, Clapp, Fraleigh, Garrison, Huyck, Hagerman, Roblin, Ruttan, Spafford, Valleau, Dorland."
Source: Pioneer Life on the Bay of Quinte, 1904 

Then in 1913, W.S. Herrington had this to say. "Many references have already been made in these pages to Major Peter Vanalstine. He was of Dutch descent and declared it in his build, complexion, and speech, for he was in every respect a typical Dutchman. He was the leader of the first company of Loyalists who landed in Adolphustown, and might properly be denominated the pioneer of the pioneers. He brought with him a number of negro slaves; and, so far as life in the wilderness offered the opportunity, he lived in grand style, and was never happier than when entertaining his friends to a sumptuous dinner. He was a rollicking good-natured companion, a striking contrast to his sedate neighbour, Phillip Dorland, who declined to take the oath of office as a member of the Legislative Assembly.

When the new election was held the major was returned as the first member to sit in the Assembly for Adolphustown and Prince Edward. He was a justice of the peace, and his name frequently appears in the records of the sessions as one of the members of that administrative and judicial body. He lived on the peninsula west of Adolphustown village and built on the opposite shore at Glenora the first grist-mill in Prince Edward county. He died in 1811 [Note: This is an error as he died in 1800, see his will] and was buried in the U. E. L. burying-ground at Adolphustown."
Source: History of the County of Lennox and Addington, 1913, W.S. Herrington, K.C.

In 1974, Lester Van Alstine published an extensive multi generation genealogy on the family. Below is Lester's version on Peter Van Alstine. "Peter Van Alstyne, baptized June 5, 1743, married September 24, 1769 Alida Van Alen, baptized February 10, 1749, daughter of Cornelis Van Alen and Alida Pruyn. She died about 1784 and he died 1811.

"Peter Van Alstyne went to Canada, later served as a Captain in the British Army, with a Captain Dorland immediately under his command. Both of these families were dropped from membership by the Quakers. Many of the New England and some New York Loyalists were leaving and going to the maritime part of Canada. A neighbor of the Van Alstynes had been a prisoner of War at Fort Frontenac (now Kingston) during the French Wars, and he recommended that part of the world to the others. So in the spring of 1783 about 189 people under the leadership of Captain Peter Van Alstyne (he was usually referred to as Maj or from here on) started out in wide flat bottomed boats up the Hudson River, up Lake Champlain via the Richelieu River to Sorrel in Quebec. The severe winter overtook them at this point and they stayed in Sorrel all winter. In the spring they went up the St. Lawrence as far as Adolphustown on the Bay of Quinte. The fact that they chose boats and a water route  makes it sure that they were sea traders. It must have been a journey of incredible hardship. Certainly not to be contemplated by man who had young children or frail wives. Mrs. Peter Van Alstyne became ill after the Loyalists reached Sorrel, Quebec. Major Peter Van Alstyne had to leave his wife and family at Sorrel to bring his group of Loyalists to Kingston where he received the area in which they were to settle. Then they moved on to Adolphustown Township~ which had been assigned them. This was in the surmmer of 1784. His wife died in Sorrelll and was buried there on August 3, 1784. Major Peter Van Alstyne was the representative from Adolphustown to the first legislative meeting of the new five settlements (of United Empire Loyalists on the Bay of Quinte). At Adolphustown there is a restored cemetery in a very beautiful setting along the water, on the one side there is a bronze plaque to the memory of Major Peter Van Alstyne and on the other side is a plaque to the memory of his loyal and courageous followers. This is the reading on the plaque in the park at Adolphustown.

"The Loyalists Landing Place 1784
"On June 16, 1784, a party of some 250 United Empire Loyalists landed from bateaux near this site and established the first permanent settlement in Adolphustown Township. They had sailed from New York in the fall of 1783 under the leadership of Major Peter Van Alstyne (1747-1811) a loyalist of Dutch ancestry and passed the winter in Sorrel, Van Alstyne was later appointed a justice of the peace, represented this area in the first Legislative assembly of Upper Canada, and built at Glenora, the earliest grist mill in Prince Edward County."
Source: Van Alstyne - Van Alstine, Family History,  V1, Lester Van Alstine, pub. J. Grant Stevenson, Utah, 1974, 43-5. The book does not provide any source notes.

In 1980 Jane B. Goddard published a large book on John Meyers and below are a few excerpts about VanAlstine. Unfortunatley source notes were not part of the book.
  • p. 206: from the New York Port ... seven ships under Peter Van Alstine, all escorted by the British brigantine "Hope", have sailed north from New York City towards the Gulf of St. Lawrence where they are expected to arrive at Sorel (Quebec) in October 1783.
  • p. 217: On June 16, 1784, has taken place the historic landing of the initial official Loyalist party led by Major Peter Van Alstine. A small fleet of boats containing sixty five persons has arrived on the north shore at Adolphustown.
  • p. 232: Major Peter Van Alstine has been made Quarter Master for the whole Kentie (Quinte) area, in charge of governmental stores and provisions to the settlers since this past year (1785). He will be described by those who will remember him in future years  - a short, rotund, jolly man, a typical Dutchman who loves company and is a father to his people.
  • p. 292: He is a Dutchman, originally from Albany.
  • p. 308: (paraphrased) For the first Parliament of Upper Canada, a Quaker, Philip Dorland, refuses to take the oath of office, so as a result, Major Peter Van Alstine is the next to hold the seat (1792).
  • p. 346: Major Peter Van Alstine ... received a grant of 437 acres of land in the region of the Lake on the Mountain (June 4, 1796).
  • p. 346/7: (paraphrased) On the sight he builds the Stone Mills which uses water from the Lake on the Mountain that is channeled to drop 200 feet to the bay below.
  • p. 347: Major Van Alstine has installed two run of stone with three bolts of different degrees of fineness. The grist mill has many immediate customers. Soon Van Alstine will add a carding mill here, also, for wool processing. He also plans to manufacture plaster on this site.
  • p. 408: (paraphrase)  Peter Van Alstine's daughter Alida and her husband George Meyers assume the ownership of the Stone Mill site in 1811 after no one purchases the mill from the estate.
  • p. 508: (paraphrased) He operated the first ferry across the bay from Adolphustown to the Stone Mills. This was a link in the Danforth Road route.
  • p. 967: (paraphrased) Philip Dorland, Nicholas Hagerman and Major Van Alstine are among the first magistrates appointed in Upper Canada.
Source: Hans Waltimeyer, Jane B. Goddard, privately published, 1980.

There is no biography of Peter Vanalstine in the well respected  Dictionary of Canadian Biography. There is a not too detailed Wikipedia page that repeats some errors and should be updated - seen 18 Oct 2015.



2. CORRECTED SUMMARY
The best book on Major Peter Vanalstine is Larry Turner's, Voyage of a Different Kind, Mika Pub, 1979. Copies are hard to find as it is a desirable work on Peter Vanalstine and Michael Grass. Turner made an effort to write only what is supported by the early record and has scholarly source notes. Turner writes extensively on Vanalstine and it is left to the reader to find a copy to enjoy.

Larry Turner deserves full credit for clarifying much of the above conflicting information of Peter Vanalstine. Turner's scholarly work found the records that state his activity and punishment during the American Revolution as well as the years 1783 and 1784 when the Loyalists were on the move from NY to Quebec to Upper Canada.  Now that a number of sources are on line it is useful to present some of these records for researchers to actually see the record itself.

Below is my short summary of many of the now known facts with links to jump to some of the records that are described below. However, it is worth saying again, that the best source is Larry's book.

Birth and marriage
Peter Vanalstine was born in Kinderhook to parents Alexander Van Alstyne and Elbertje Van Alen. Their children were baptized variously at Claverack, Albany, Kinderhook and in Peter's case in Coxackie on 5 Jun 1743 which was across the Hudson from old Kinderhook Landing. See Dr. H.C. Burleigh Fonds, [Vanalstine, 61] for a note about the baptism at the Stone Arabia Dutch Reformed Church. Peter shared the Kinderhook Patent with brothers John and Abraham after their father died. Peter married Alida Van Alen on 24 Sept 1769. Peter had married well and inherited property, was a blacksmith, appointed Magistrate and was a Captain in the NY militia. [Turner, Ch 1; Marriage date from Lester Van Alstine's book, 43]

Quaker?
Lester Van Alstine states that Peter Van Alstine and Thomas Dorland were Quakers and "both of these families were dropped from membership by the Quakers." The Dorland family were Quakers and Philip Dorand and probably Thomas were disowned but no Van Alstines are named in the minutes of the Nine Partners Minute books that have been transcribed so far and are available at the Canadian Friends Historical Society. Peter was baptized in a non Quaker church so his parents were not Quakers. It is very doubtful that Peter was a Quaker given his serving in the NY militia which would trigger disownment by the Quakers.

Revolutionary war activity
In 1776 Peter built a new house that still stands to this day. Peter served on the Albany County Committee of Correspondence starting in 1775 and argued for neutrality and conciliation. In mid June 1776, Peter Vanalstine and 16 others were jailed for being Tories and held for 17 days. Peter gathered a group of Loyalists and they may have been involved in an attack that killed a man and the group went underground. Peter and thirty of his associates made their way north in 1777 and joined Burgoyne in Sept 1777.  They became in charge of moving supplies down the Hudson in batteaux. After defeat and the signing of the Convention of Saratoga, Peter and some of his men were allowed to make their way to Quebec and were banished from New York. On 10 Dec 1777 Peter Vanalstine is listed as a Captain.

See the Minutes of the Albany Committee of Correspondence, 1775-1778, Sullivan and Flick, V 1, Albany, 1923, pages, 28, 236, 480, 743.

In the summer of 1778, Peter and his men sailed from Quebec to New York on the Mary; New York being under British control. He was inducted into the Southern Army of Sir Henry Clinton a day after arriving and Peter formed his men into a Company of batteaux men. In 1780 they were dismissed from Clinton and reformed under Abraham Cuyler's Corps on Long Island. During this time, in Oct 1779, Peter's estate was confiscated and Alida and the children were allowed to join Peter in Dec 1779 on Long Island. Peter served as a Major in Cuyler's Corps at Smithtown, Long Island. [Turner, Ch. 1, citations at end of chapter]

Associated Loyalists
The term Associated Loyalists had been used as early as 1775 when British supporters were asked to associate themselves into groups of Associated Loyalists and serve under a British commander. After a few transformations they were set down. The idea was revived to facilitate the removal of loyalists from New York in an orderly manner. Companies of Associated Loyalists were formed to embark for Nova Scotia and Quebec. Recruitng was intense and competitive. Turner determined that of the 61 men who settled with Vanalstine: 8 had followed him to Quebec in 1777; 4 served with him under Cuyler; 30 could be traced to support services with the British Army in NY and 25 could be linked to other regiments or corps. [Turner, Ch. 4; see also 1788 Loyalist Claim]

Sorel, Quebec
Vanalstine's ship list for embarkation from NY dated 8 Sep [1783] lists 57 men, 35 women, 62 children and 38 servants for a total of 183 people. Only 41 of the men moved on to Sorel from Quebec and of those only 13 settled with him in Adolphustown the next spring. Most of those who settled in Adolphustown joined Vanalstine at Sorel. [Turner, Ch. 5]

The winter at Sorel was very difficult and Alida Vanalstine died there. "Mrs Vanalstine, wife of Major Vanalstine" was buried 3 Aug 1784. [Christ Church, Sorel by Rev John Doty; Burleigh Papers, download Vanalstine pdf under V, 20; Turner, Ch. 6]

Adolphustown
In April 1784 Vanalstine petitions from Sorel for town lots in Cataraqui and also for land beyond to settle the families that have signed up with him. Eighty signatures are on this petition. See also the Haldimand Papers.

Turner argues that the loyalists would have arrived at Adolphustown later than the traditional 16 June 1784 due to all the delays and also that Vanalstine probably arrived much later yet due in part to his wife being ill. Peter was still trying to get a settlement of £810 for his expenses while with Burgoyne and an unsettled account with Clinton. All he got was sympathy. [Turner, Ch 8]

The men were victualled in Cataraqui [Kingston] before moving on to Adolphustown where suppies were short and the season too late for planting. Due to the slow surveying of the lots, Vanalstine's group could not be placed on lots in Adolphustown till September. Vanalstine petitioned 6 Oct 1784 for much needed supplies. See Hald B217, Add Mss 21877, p. 485, film not on line yet, as cited in Turner, Ch 9.

Loyalist Claims
In Feb 1788, Peter meets with the Claims Commission in Montreal and makes his plea for compensation of assets confiscated by the patriots. The Claims are transcribed below and give a lot of detail about his life in Kinderhook during the revolutionary period.

Personality
A number of the older secondary sources mention that Peter Vanalstine was a jolly man and well liked. Where does this information come from? It would appear that the source of these types of comments all originate from William canniff who interviewed elders in 1864/5, some of whom knew Peter Vanalstine when they were young or heard stories from their parents. See the Settlement of Upper Canada, Canniff, 1869, pg. 662

Glenora and the Stone Mills
Major Van Alstine petitioned for land, water and mill rights around Lake on the Mountain in 1793 and the subsequent development of a grist mill made it an important enterprise in the local pioneer economy. A number of sources estimate the mills being built around 1796, see Canniff, 209.

Larry Turner states that Peter Van Alstine was the first owner of a ferry crossing at Glenora. His superb article, Early History of the Glenora Ferry, adapted from Larry Turner on the ferry is available on line at the Naval Marine Archive.

Death in 1800
It is widely written that Peter Vanalstine died in 1811, This comes from Canniff [210] who writes about a newspaper clipping of a court case in 1811 that concerns the estate of Vanalstine. Readers assumed that he must have died at that time. See the transcription below of his will and probate that proves beyond doubt that he died in 1800.



2. CHILDREN OF PETER VANALSTINE and ALIDA VAN ALEN
MAJOR PETER VANALSTINE , U.E. was born before 05 Jun 1743. He died between 10 May-15 Nov 1800 in Adolphustown, Lennox Co. He married Alida Van Alen, daughter of Cornelius Van Alen and Alida Pruyn on 24 Sep 1769. She was born before 03 Feb 1748. She died about 03 Aug 1784 in Sorrel, Quebec, Canada.
Major Peter VanAlstine , U.E. and Alida Van Alen had the following children: See The H.C. Burleigh Fonds for notes regarding the baptisms of Alexander, Cornelius and Elbertje. [Burleigh, Vanalstine, 237)
  • i. ALEXANDER VANALSTINE was born about 11 Nov 1770 in PLBQ p. 827; date WFT. He died about 1870. He married Ursula Allen on 26 Jun 1798.
  • ii. ALAIDA VANALSTINE was born about 02 Mar 1772 in Kinderhook, NY: PLBQ p. 827; date & place WFT. She died about 1872. She married George W. Meyers U.E., son of Captain John Walden Meyers , U.E. and Mary (Polly) (Cruger) Kruger on 05 May 1789 in St John's Church, Ernestown. He was born on 24 Sep 1765 in Wurtenburg, Rhinebeck, Dutchess Co., NY. He died on 20 Apr 1836 in Sidney Tp.
  • iii.    CORNELIUS VANALSTINE (Source: corn8.FTW, Date of Import: Jan 26, 1999.), born Abt. June 12, 1774 in PLBQ p. 828; died 1862.  He married Rachel Dunham, December 29, 1801.
  • iv.    ELBERTJE VANALSTINE, born Abt. February 02, 1777 in Kinderhook, NY; Not mentioned in PLBQ. Some on line lineages have him.
  • v.    ABRAM VANALSTINE, born Abt. 1779; died in Died young, PLBQ, p. 828.
Generation 2
2.    ALEXANDER VANALSTINE (Major Peter1 , U.E.) was born about 11 Nov 1770 in PLBQ p. 827; date WFT. He died about 1870. He married Ursula Allen on 26 Jun 1798.
Alexander VanAlstine and Ursula Allen had the following children:
  • i.    PETER VANALSTINE. born 15 Aug 1800
  • ii.    ALLEN VANALSTINE.
  • iii.    ELIZA VANALSTINE.
3.    ALAIDA VANALSTINE (Major Peter1 , U.E.) was born about 02 Mar 1772 in Kinderhook, NY: PLBQ p. 827; date & place WFT. She died about 1872. She married George W. Meyers U.E., son of Captain John Walden Meyers , U.E. and Mary (Polly) (Cruger) Kruger on 05 May 1789 in St John's Church, Ernestown. He was born on 24 Sep 1765 in Wurtenburg, Rhinebeck, Dutchess Co., NY. He died on 20 Apr 1836 in Sidney Tp.
George W. Meyers U.E. and Alaida VanAlstine had the following children:
  • i.    MARY MEYERS. She married James Vandervoort, son of Francis Vandervoort and Hannah Acker on 16 Jul 1809 in Sidney. He was born on 13 Sep 1787 in Dutchess Co. NY. He died on 04 Mar 1877 in Sidney Tp, Hastings Co, ON.
  • ii.    PETER W MEYERS. He married ELIZABETH YAGER. She was born on 28 Mar 1800 in Claverack, Columbia Co., NY.
  • iii.    REBECCA MEYERS. She married PETER VANDERVOORT. He was born on 09 Jun 1791. He died on 05 Aug 1846.
  • iv.    NANCY MEYERS.  She married JOHN LEONARD W. MEYERS.
  • Generation 2 (con't)
  • v.    ALICE MEYERS.  She married GEORGE WESTFALL.
  • vi.    MARGARET MEYERS. She died about 1838. She married PETER VANALSTINE. He was born on 30 Aug 1806 in Adolphustown, Ontario, Canada. He died on 08 Aug 1840.
  • vii.    CATHERINE MEYERS was born in 1796 in Sidney, Hastings County.
  • viii.    TOBIAS WALTER MEYERS was born on 26 May 1798 in Sidney Twp., Hastings Co., ON. He died on 11 Oct 1887 in Sidney Twsp, Hastings Co. Ont.. He married CHRISTINA HELEN YAGER. She was born on 11 Oct 1807 in Claverack, Columbia Co., NY. She died on 12 Oct 1900 in Sidney Twsp, Hastings Co. Ont..
  • ix.    JOHN G. W. MEYERS was born about 1800 in Upper Canada. He married CATHERINE MEYERS. She died before 1851. He married MARY (POLLY) ROW. She was born about 1810 in Upper Canada.
  • x.    ALIDA (ALLEY) MEYERS was born before 29 Jun 1800. She married HARMON ROW. He was born in 1772 in Dutchess Co., NY. He died on 24 May 1857 in Sideny Tp., Hastings Co..
4.    CORNELIUS VANALSTINE (Major Peter1 , U.E.) was born about 12 Jun 1774 in PLBQ p. 828 & WFT. He died in 1862. He married Rachel Dunham, daughter of John Dunham on 29 Dec 1801. She was born about 1779. She died on 01 Jan 1867.
Cornelius VanAlstine and Rachel Dunham had the following children:
  • i.    ALIDA VANALSTINE was born on 09 Mar 1803 in Adolphustown, Ontario, Canada. She died about 1903. She married WILLIAM SCOTT.
  • ii.    SARAH VANALSTINE was born on 22 Jun 1804 in Adolphustown, Ontario, Canada. She died about 1904. She married James Scott between 1820-1852.
  • iii.    PETER VANALSTINE was born on 30 Aug 1806 in Adolphustown, Ontario, Canada. He died on 08 Aug 1840. He married PARMELA SCOTT. He married MARGARET MEYERS. She died about 1838.
  • iv.    JOHN VANALSTINE was born on 21 Aug 1808 in Adolphustown, Ontario, Canada. He died about 1808.
  • v.    ABRAHAM VANALSTINE was born on 07 May 1810 in Prince Edward Co., ON. He died in Prince Edward Co., ON. He married Elizabeth Jackson in 1842. She was born in New York maybe New Haven.
  • vi.    LAWERENCE VANALSTINE was born on 03 Mar 1812. He died about 1912.
  • vii.    GEORGE VANALSTINE was born on 22 Aug 1814. He died about 1914 in Prince Edward Co., Ontario, Canada. He married MARGARET A. MCCARTNEY.
  • viii.    MARY VANALSTINE was born on 20 May 1816. She died on 01 Aug 1868 in Prince Edward Co., Ontario, Canada. She married Sheldon Hawkins between 1832-1858. He died in Prince Edward Co., Ontario, Canada.
  • ix.    ALEXANDER VANALSTINE was born on 01 May 1818. He died about 1918 in Prince Edward Co., Ontario, Canada. He married DIDAMA ZUFELDT. She was born in 1824. She died in 1912.
  • Generation 2 (con't)
  • x.    MARTHA VANALSTINE was born on 28 Aug 1823. She died about 1923.
  • xi.    UNKNOWN VANALSTINE was born about 1825.
  • xii.    WILLIAM HENRY VANALSTINE was born on 01 Apr 1826 in Adolphustown, Ontario, Canada. He died in Feb 1911 in Prince Edward Co., Ontario, Canada. He married Catherine Edmonds on 27 Nov 1858.
CHURCH REGISTERS
Sander Vanalstine and his wife Elbertje Van Alen and their children with baptism records are listed in a long article titled The Van Alen family in America.
Source: NYGBR, V 81, 1950, 181. Noted in Burleigh Fonds on page 166.

26 Jun 1798, Alexander Van Alstine, Adolphustown, bachelor, m. Ursula Allen, Marysburgh, spinster, by licence. Witnesses: Harmonus Windell, Duncan Bell, Nancy Dugall, James Dugall
Source: Anglican Register 1787 - 1814, Rev John Langhorn, OGS, 1980, 20

15 Aug 1800, Peter Van Alstine bap., parents Alexander Van Alstine & Ursula Allen, Marysburgh
Source: Presbyterian Register of Rev Robert McDowall, 1800-41, OGS, 1880, 55

29 Dec 1801, Cornelius Van Alstine m. Rachel Dunham, Adolphustown
Source: Presbyterian Register of Rev Robert McDowall, 1800-41, OGS, 1880, 3

29 Jun 1800, Alley Meyers, bap, parents Geo W Miers & Alada Van Alstine, Adolphustown
Source: Presbyterian Register of Rev Robert McDowall, 1800-41, OGS, 1880, 42

13 Jan 1806, David McWhirter m. Ursula Van Alstine, Widow, Adolphustown
Source: Presbyterian Register of Rev Robert McDowall, 1800-41, OGS, 1880, 6



4. HALDIMAND PAPERS
1784 at Cataraqui
Major Van Alstine's party of Loyalists settled on Tp. No. 4, Cataraqui; 92 men, 46 women, 103 children, 17 servants, 253 total.
Source: Haldimand Papers, British Library, Disbanded Troops and Loyalists, No 4 Cataraqui [Adolphustown], 5 Oct 1784, Add Mss 21828, H-1655, on line Heritage Canadiana image 142

Loyalist, Major Vanalstine, 1 man, 0 woman, children 2 male above 10, 1 male under 10, 1 female above 10, 3 servants, 7.5 rations per day, 5 acres cleared, woman dead since last muster, servant negro slaves
Source: Haldimand Papers, British Library, Disbanded Troops and Loyalists, No 4 Cataraqui [Adolphustown], 5 Oct 1784, Add Mss 21828, H-1655, on line Heritage Canadiana image 179

Vanalstine petitioned 6 Oct 1784 for much needed supplies. See Hald B217, Add Mss 21877, p. 485, film H-1744 not on line yet, as cited in Turner, Ch 9.



5. LOYALIST CLAIMS
Montreal, 27th February 1788
393.   Evidence on the Claim of Peter Van Alstine, late of Kinderhook, Albany County, N. York Province.

Claimant Sworn:
     Says he was born in Kinderhook and lived there in 1775. Says That from the earliest period he had determined to support the British Government.   Early in 1776 he was chosen by the friends of Gt. Britain to be a Member of the Committee of Albany.
     He found himself of a Minority in the Committee and by order of the Majority he and 16 more were made Prisoners as friends of the King of Great Britain, and kept in Gaol (Jail) for 17 days, and other persons chose in the room of those confined. He never belonged to any other meeting.
     After this he was considered a marked friend to Great Britain, And early in 1777 he was obliged to live (away) from home & in September 1777 he joined Gen. Burgoyne.  After the Convention he came to Canada. He brought 30 men to the King’s Army.  In 1778 he went to New York  and served as Captain of Batteaux men. He afterwards did duty as Major of Associated Loyalist and did duty at Smith Town, Long Island.
     He now enjoys half pay of Captain.
     Produces Certificate from Peter Van Schaack to Claimant ‘s early and Uniform Loyalty, & his being obliged to remain concealed until he joined Gen. Burgoyne in 1777. Dated London, 16th February 1784.

Property:
     600 acres of Land in Kinderhook.
     No 1: Produces Deed dated 13th April, 1771 whereby Andries Kettler conveys to Peter and John Van Alstine in consideration of £432 N.Y. currency, one third of an undivided tract in common with Isaac and Martin Van Alstine, containing in all 665 acres.
     Says there was a mistake in the quantity for the whole. Was about 1900 acres. He imagines that the quantity in the deed Was the quantity purchased by himself and brother.
     Soon after there was a verbal agreement and a share given to his brother and Him, equal to one third part. He thinks that they cleared 70 acres of this.
     He thinks that The cleared land was worth £4  N.Y. currency per acre. Of this he claims One half.
     His brother John Van Alstine is dead.  His Uncles were in Possession last Summer.  But he was informed by the Commissioner of forfeitures that they meant to sell it this year .
      No 2: Produces Deed dated March, 1768, whereby John Van Alstine, of Kinderhook Conveyed to Peter, John and Alexander Van Alstine in consideration of £500 N.Y. Currency, a farm formerly belonging to Christ.Brosie and Amie Lagransie. It contained about 200 acres. He purchased one third which he now claims. It was a gift from their Uncle.    
     These lands were cultivated, but the Property was disputed. It was in the possession of Innis Van Slaak who remains in possession. 50 acres are cleared and are well worth £5 currency per acre.
     No 3: Produces Deed dated 6th June 1767, whereby John Borgaert Conveys to claimant in consideration of £23 currency a certain quantity of land, but the quantity is not mentioned. Claimant says 4 acres, and four morgans or 8 acres meadow.
     Says that it was much increased in value by improvements.  Thinks The 4 acres were worth £5 per acre, and the Meadows at £4 Per acre. This remains unsold.
     No 4: Produces the last Will of his Father Alexander Van Alstine, dated in 1752. Whereby he bequeaths unto his three sons, Abraham, Peter, and John Van Alstine, to each of  them an equal share of his right in the Patent of Kinderhook.
     Says this Property remains undivided, but the proprietors took possession of what part they had occasion.
     Says that he and his brother, John occupied part, about  30 or 40 acres Were improved and fenced by them, and his brother’s children are now in Possession.  Says that no part of the above is in his possession, or for his interests.
     Produces Copy of Judgment passed against Peter S. Van Alstine for joining the enemies of the State. Signed 14th July, 1783. He indicted November 1779, and Certificate from Hy. Oathardt & Jas. V. Rensselar, Commissioner of Forfeitures, that the estate or P. Van Alstine is forfeited. And that they have received information of 4 acres Low Land , 8 acres of Meadow near Kinderhook, and undivided half of 600 acres & 1-3 of a proprietary share of  the Patent  of Kinderhook, 11th June 1787.
     Certificate of sale required.
     He had built a Brick House on the part he possessed under his Father’s Will, i.e., on the undivided Lands of Kinderhook. He built this in 1776.  Thinks it cost him what he has charged £400 currency.
     His brothers children are in possession. His Brother was at half expense.
     All his stock was seized and sold.
     He left 20 Head Horned Cattle, 6 Horses, 20 Sheep, a Sled, 3 Negroes, farming Utensils, at £65 each (the Negroes), Grain in Stack and Barn, 10 Hogs.
     Claimant says that there is no mortgage or incumbrance due from His estate.

Witness Guysbert Sharp, Sworn:
     Says he knew Claimant at Kinderhook.  He was always friendly to Great Britain from the first of his troubles. Remembers his being chosen a member of the Committee on account of his Loyal Principals, He accepted to serve The friends of Great Britain.
     He joined the British Army at Saratoga. Remembers his purchase No 1. Cannot speak to the value. No 3 was good Land. No 4 was a joint property with his brother, John.  When he joined the Army he left a considerable stock on his Lands. He was a Blacksmith by trade and made money by his Trade.
Source: The Second Report of The Bureau of Archives For the Province of Ontario, Subtitle: United Empire Loyalists, Enquiry into the Losses and Services in Consequence of Their Loyalty, Evidence in the Canadian Claims, 1904, Alexander Fraser, Part I, Page 445-447, On line at Archive.org



6. PETITIONS and LAND RECORDS
Petitions and land records are presented in chronological order.

1784
5 Apr 1784, Sorel [Quebec], the Memorial of Peter Vanalstine Esq with his Associated Loyalists subscribed. Humbly sheweth, That whereas it is your Excellencys pleasure that a settlement should be made at Cataracway, in full compliance therewith, the subscribed Memorialists humbly beg ... to grant each of us a town lot in y[ou]r intended town. Then any Township beyond the second, with so much land as may be necessary for settling the whole body in one township. And such utensils as may be requisite for farming & building with other such emoluments as others of our fellow sufferers may receive.

We would beg leave to represent to your Excellency that we fully assured by his Excellencys Sir Guy Carelton, when we left New York, that on our arrival at Quebec, clothing, arms & ammunition should be distributed to us. The first of which not one sixth of us have recd, being able till now to dispense with what we had, & we are very sorry to acquaint your Excellency, that we in general are really in need of that Bounty.

As yet we have needed neith arms not ammunition, but we sincerely  hope  ... we should be provided with such very necessary implements of Defence, both for the preservation of our lives & the security of the Settlement. ...


Peter Van Alstine
Coond Van Dusen
John Huyck
Cass Van Dusen
John Claw
Lodowick Strite
Denid? Hugunien??
Lodowick Strite Junr
John Van Valkinburg
John Eger?
Michl Vandervoort
John Sharp
Peter Vandervoort
Andrew Coller
Peter Lampman
William More
Frederick Lampman
Abraham Maybe[e]
William Aglor?
Peter Valleau
Philip Dorland
Gilbert Bogert [Bogart]
Thomas Dorland
Abraham Bogert
Barant Lewis
William Clarke
Peter Brunner?
Peter Dulyea
Christopher Garman
Peter Dulyea Junr
Peter Van Chiver
Elias Holmes
Cornelius Vanhorn
John Pearsall
Paul Trumpour
Peter Ruttan Esq
Peter Winey
William Ruttan
Simon J? Cole
Tobias Ryckman
Peter Cole
Mathew Steel
John Trumpour
Peter Ruttan Junr
Thimothy Shiner
John Rush
Isiah Shinin
Philip Roblin
Henry Shiner
Owin Roblin [Owen]
John Johnston
Richd Smith
Peter Wyeof?
John Dyer
William Jones
Albert Cornell
Paul Huff
Nicholas Peterson

Paul Peterson

Christopher Peterson

Nicholas Peterson Junr

John Holms

Isaac Yurex

William Yurex

second page

Solomon Orser

Aften? Orser

Isaac Orser

Gilbt Orser

Abraham Petterson

Nicholas Petterson

Matthen Benson

Olvert Benson

Perrot Benson

David Demure

John Reaker

John Ryckman

Wailm Stage

Jeams Clave?
Edward Ryckman

Moses Deane


[fold note] No 32, reported 289, Recd 25th April 1784, Read 15 Feb 1788 in Committee, settled
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V513, U-V bundle Misc/24, 1784-1794, C-2842, image 752, 80 men are named.

1785

Major Vanalstine, Loyalist, granted 400 acres, Lots 7 and 8, North West of West Lake, dated 21 Sept 1785 at Cataraqui.
Source: Township Papers, Hallowell, AO MS658, reel 178, #289, copy Meyers file

Commissions - starting in 1785
Justice of the Peace, Montreal District, 18 Apr. 1785; Mecklenburg Dist., 24 July 1788; Midland Dist., 1 Jan. 1800; Lieutenant, Prince Edward County, 2 Nov. 1792,
Source: General Index to Commissions, LAC, RG 68; MG 14, AO 12, vol. 54; AO 13, bundle 16 - as cited in Becoming Prominent, J.K. Johnson, McGill Queens Press, 1989, 232

1787
Peter Vanalstine granted 400 acres in Lots 7 and 8, 2nd Conc North West of West Lake, Hallowell.dated 23 Oct 1787, at Kingston.
Source: Township Papers, Hallowell, AO MS658, reel 178, #370, copy Meyers file

1790
23 Feb 1790, Kingston, the memorial of Major Peter Van Altine [sic], Captain Barret Dyer, Lt John Huyck, Lt Paul Huff, Lt Philip Dorland in Col Abraham C Cuylers Regimt & Paul Trumpour Ensign in Col Delanceys Corps of Loyalists. That your Memorialists have very early evinced their loyalty and attachment to his majestys person and Government & having served faithfully & zealously and shared equally in the dangers & fatigues from the commencment to the the conclusion of the late unhappy war ... being informed that an additional allowance of land has been granted to officers of the late 84th regiment .. that additional quanity of lands may be assigned to each of them [us] ... viz Major peter Vanalstine 4000 acres, Huff, Dorland and thrumpour 1500 acres each.
[fold note] No 188, examined, folio 25
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V513, U-V bundle Misc/23, 1784-1794, C-2842, image 747

1790
Feb 24 [1790?], "Peter Van Alstine, John Huyck, Paul Huff, Philip Dorland & Paul Trumpour of Adolphus Town & Barret Dyre of Sophiasburgh petition for a quantity of lands equal to what has been granted to Officers of the late 84th Regiment - It appears that Peter Van Alstine was commissioned & acted as Major, Barret Dyre as Captain, and John Huyck, Paul Huff & Philip Dorland as Lieutenants in the Corps of associated Loyalists commanded by Colonel Abraham Cuyler, and Paul Trumpour as Ensign in one of the Corps belonging to General Delancys Brigade, in which capacity he actually receives a Pension of £25 ?cy p Ann. Peter Van Alstine also receives half pay as Captain; and the whole of them under the instructions of 1783 have been considered entitled to have received Lands in the same proportion as other Officers.
  • Peter Van Alstine has received 1000 acres as a Field Officer, 250 as family Lands & 200 as the additional bounty in all 1450 acres
  • Barret Dyre has received as a Captain 700 acres & 150 as family Lands
  • John Huyck has received as a Lieut 500 ares & 300 as Family Lands
  • Paul Huff has received 500 acres as a Subaltern & 200 acres as Family Lands
  • Philip Dorland has received 500 acres as a subaltern & 100 as Family Lands
  • Paul Trumpour has received 500 acres as a subaltern & 150 acres as Family Lands.
The whole of these except Mr Van Alstine will at all Events be further entitled to the additional Bounty, should the rest of their Pretenious? appear inadmissible."
Source: Upper Canada Land Board Minutes and Records, 1765-1804, RG1 L4, LAC, Vol 7, Mecklenburg District, 81-82 and information repeated on 188, C-14027, on line at heritage.canadiana, image 406.

24 Feb 1790, Peter Van Alstine [and others] petition for land to be granted the same as officers in the 84th Regiment. .... Peter Van Alstine also received half pay as Captain ... 1000 acres as a Field officer, 250 Family lands and 200 as the additional bounty, in all 1450 acres
Source: Land Boards of Upper Canada 1765-1804, LAC, Vol 7, 81, C-14027, image 403

17 Jan 1791, Quebec, Peter Van Alstine , Major in Cuylers Corps, Associated Loyalists, [entitled to an additional grant of] 2550 acres
Source: Land Boards of Upper Canada 1765-1804, LAC, Vol 7, 227, C-14027, image 539

7 Sep 1791, "It also appears that lands allowed Major Van Alstine by this order added to 1470 acres already received by him, amount to 4020 acres, which if he is considered as a Field Officer is 980 acres too little, or if as a Captain 1020 too much."
Source: Land Boards of Upper Canada 1765-1804, LAC, Vol 7, 288/9, C-14027, image 588

1793
28 May 1793, Newark, the Memorial of Peter Van Alstine of the Township of Adlphustown ... that your Memorialist is one of the first settlers in this Infant province and has taken an active part in favour of Government at an early period in the late unhappy Revolution between America and its Mother Country - And finding that a Miller place is vacant nearly opposite the place of his abode, in the Township of Marysburgh, together with two lotts of land known and distinguished by the name of Number five & six, containing four hundred acres - from the rapid population of the Country and the necessitous wants of a mill for the benefit of the public at that place, your Memorialist being entitled to 5000 acres of land, may that the above mentioned Lotts may be assigned to him as part of his proportion ...
[signed] P.V. Alstine
[note] 1250 drawn before

[fold note] Rec'd 6 June 1793, read in Council 8 Jun 1793, read again 15 Jun [1794], to remain till Mr Aitken the Surveyor Genl returns, granted, read Jun 22
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V514, U-V 1/22, 1792-6, C-2842, image 1143

1796 LAND DEAL
Peter Vanalstine obtained 200 acres from the Crown, 4 Mar 1796, Lots 26 and 27, Con 1, Adolphustown, and also 200 acres on 4 Jun 1796 at Lot 16, Con 3 and at the same date, 200 acres, Lot 15, Con 4, Adolphustown.
Source: Adolphustown Abstract Land Books, Lennox and Addington, AO, GS 4614.

1797 MASONIC LODGE
These Loyalists included many Freemasons who had fought on the British side. Thomas Merritt (1759-1842),"comet of cavalry" in the Queen's Rangers, and eventually Sheriff of Lincoln County, was first Master of St George's, No 27, St Catharines, in 1816. Colonel John Butler (1725-1796), who organized Butler's Rangers during the Revolution, was Provincial Grand Senior Warden in 1795. Major James Rogers (1726?-1792), of Rogers' Rangers, is on record as Master of St James', No 14, at Cataraqui (Kingston) in 1781. Major Edward Jessup Jr (1735-1816), commander of the Loyal Rangers or Jessup's Corps, was first Senior Warden of Lodge No 13, Elizabethtown (near Brockville), in 1799. Major Peter Van Alstine ( 17471811), of Cuyler's Corps, led the refugees who settled at Adolphustown in 1784; he was Master of St James', No 7, Fredericksburg, in 1797
Source: email Bill Van Cleave, Newington, Connecticut, USA

1798
23 May 1798, York, Petition of Peter Van Alstine of Adolphustown Esq, petitions to support the request for a lease of 200 acres by Archibald Campbell. Van Alstine then requests for himself the remaining part of the glebe and also the Island called Wapoose in front of Marysburgh. The fold notes state that the island is not part of the 2/7ths up for lease. Also that the glebe may not have more than 200 acres. Archibald is granted his lease.
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V556, Leases and lic 1798 - 1839/133A,  , 1792-6, C-2983, image 992

1800

7 Apr 1800, Kingston, petitioners are creditors of the late Peter J Smith, Esq, deceased, [son of James Smith] to a large amount. In his lifetime he bargained away 2000 acres to James Frederick, a tranchent person, to build a sawmill and race and James Frederick on his part has not the smallest degree filled. Asking him to finish mill or settle the matter fairly. [signed by] Joseph Anderson, Peter VanAlstine, John Blacker, Asa Wallbridge, Nathan Curtis. 
Source: UCLP, RG 1 L3, Vol 1, A Misc, #16, film C-1609, image 37

LAND BOARD - Peter Vanalstine
Vanalstine, Major Peter - granted lot 7, Con 1, West Side West Lake, Sophiasburgh [later Hallowell], 200 acres
Vanalstine, Major Peter - granted lot 8, Con 1, West Side West Lake, Sophiasburgh [later Hallowell], 200 acres
Source: Land Boards of Upper Canada 1765-1804, LAC, V 12, p. 38 & 43, c 1800, C-14028, image 116

Vanalstine, Major Peter - granted lot 26 & 27, Con 1, Adolphustown, 400 acres
Vanalstine, Major Peter - granted town plots 22 to 26, Adolphustown, 170 acres
Vanalstine, Major Peter - granted lot 16, Con 2 & 3, Adolphustown, 400 acres
Vanalstine, Major Peter - granted lot 15, Con 4, Adolphustown, 200 acres
Source: Land Boards of Upper Canada 1765-1804, LAC, V 12, p. 29 & 31, c 1800, C-14028, image 108. See also V 13, pages 42, 43, 45 starting at image 204; page 76 at image 223 and page 83 at image 226.

CHILDREN & GRANDCHILDREN OF PETER VANALSTINE - PETITIONS
Alexander Van Alstine SUE - son of Major Peter Vanalstine
5 Feb 1790, Adolphustown, Memorial of Alexander Van Alstine son of Peter Van Alstine, Loyalist ... entitled to 200 acres ... begs that some may be assigned to him ... [signed] Alexr Van Alstine
[fold] 200 acres granted
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V513. U-V Misc/21, 1784-94, C-2842, image 741

25 May 1792, Adolphus Town, Memorial of Alexander Vanalstine, son of a Loyalist .. [his] father Peter Vanalstine joined the Royal Standard in 1777 when he was appointed as Capt and stood with the army till ... 1783 in New York ...obtained 1200 acres of land. Memorialist begs leave if such children are intitled to that quantity of land  ....
[fold] Read 8 Jul 1797, Recommend for 800 acres as the son of a field officer. Confirmed 24 July. Warrant 4 Aug 1797
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V514, U-V bundle 3/14, C-2947, image 51

5 Feb 1793, Adolphustown, No 65. Alexander Van Alstine, son of Major Peter Van Alstine loyalist, being of age, prays for 200 acres agreeable to the order in council which is granted.
Source: Land Boards of Upper Canada 1765-1804, LAC, Vol 8, 12, C-14027, image 678

URSULA VANALSTINE DUE - daughter of Joseph Allen UE & wife of Alexander Vanalstine
15 Nov 1800, Marysburg, petition of Ursula Van Alstine ... is the daughter of Capt Joseph Allen UE Loyalist ... has drawn only 200 acres ... pray for  ... as much as persons of her description are allowed.
[fold] 15 Nov 1800, this application comes too late
[Note: Ursula does not name her husband in this petition. However Ursula Allen is named as the wife of the above Alexander Vanalstine in Van Alstine Family History, Lester Van Alstine, 1974, Vol 1, p. 45.]
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V514, U-V 5/19, C-2947, image 285

ALLEN VANALSTINE - son of Alexander Vanalstine
2 Mar 1824, York, petition of Allen Vanalstine is the son of Alexander Vanalstine of Adolphustown Tp, is 23 years of age ... beseeches ... to grant him a town lot in the Village of Adolphustown.
[fold] surveyor reports that several vacant lots, petitioner has not received any, oath is attached to another petition about the ferry at Adolphustown Tp, in council 4 Mar 1824, recommended, ordered 5 Mar 1824, entered in land book M, p. 15
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V516, V14/3, C-2948, image 119

ALIDA MEYERS DUE - daughter of Major Peter Vanalstine
rec'd 9 Nov 1797, petition of Ally Meyers alias Vanalstine ... the daughter of a Field officer and having only drawn 200 acres prays ... lands as allowed to other Field officers daughters.
[fold] read 16 Nov 1797, Recommend for 600 acres in addition to 200 acres to make up 800 acres as the daughter of a Field Officer. Warrt 17 Jun
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V514, U-V 3/30, C-2947, image 90

30 June 1790, Alida Myers, alias Vanalstine daughter of Major Peter Vanalstine of Adolphus Town & Elizabeth Ferguson, alias Cole, daughter of Daniel Cole of Adolphustown apply for 200 acres  ... certificates were granted them No 305 and 308, p. 15
Source: Land Boards of Upper Canada 1765-1804, LAC, Vol 7, 169, C-14027, image 48

CORNELIUS VAN ALSTINE SUE - son of Major Peter Vanalstine
7 Aug 1795, Newark, petition of Cornelius Van Alstyn, son of Peter Van Alstyne Esq ... has never received lands .. that rear part of lots 13, 14, 15 & 16 in the 5th Concession of the Township of Adolphustown are vacant ... certificates originally given for them to Simon Cole, John Deyers, B Lewis & Wm Jones & Nic Hagerman having been returned ... prays for [above].
7 Aug 1795, Newark, I certify the lots mentioned ... returned .. [signed] P.V. Alstine
[fold] petition of Cornelius Vanalstyne, Loyalist UE, referred to Survr General, 1 Sep 1795, read again with the Surveyor Genl Report & recommended. Confirmed.
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V514, U-V 1/9, C-2842, image 1096

27 July 1797, Adolphustown, petition of Cornelius Van Alstine ... did in the year 1796 petition for a grant of some vacant lands  in the Township of Adolphustown ... prays ... to grant the prayer of his former petition
[fold] recd 30 Aug 1797, Recommend for 800 acres as son of field officer. 17 June 1798 for 600
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V514, U-V 3/37, C-2947, image 121

CORNELIUS VANALSTINE - probably the son of Peter Vanalstine
This lengthy file contains a petition and a number of affidavits.
[10a] 22 Aug 1849, David Roblin, the petitioner, submits an assignment - see 10f and 10h.
[10b- fold] Petition of David Roblin for script [land] on the entitled claim of Capt Cornelius Vanalstine. Recd 17 Sept 1849. In Council 6 Oct 1849. The committee do not recommend the prayer, Capt Vanalstine not being entitled to land. Again submitted to a full council 2 May 1850. Refuted. Final decision too faint to read.
[10c] 24 Dec 1849, John Allison Esq & Major in the 3rd Regt of PE Militia swears ... Cornelius Vanalstine was Captain of a Company of Volunteers ... in the latter part of 1812 ... and that he [Allison] was a sergeant in the Company ... and that Cornelius Vanalstine is now resided in Athol Tp.
[10d] 25 Dec 1849, Cornelius Vanalstine swears on oath .. that he served as captain in the year 1812 in the Volunteer Company of Prince Edward Militia in Kingston and that he was ordered there to serve in place of Captain John Allen being discharged for misconduct ... he never received land ... for said service
[10f] 22 Aug 1849, in consideration of £8 paid by David Roblin of Richmond Tp, Esq, - Capt Cornelius Vanalstine of Athol Tp, yeoman, sells his to David Roblin his his claim for 800 acres of land or script which I may be entitled to receive for my service as Captain Commanding a Flank Company of Prince Edward Militia at the port of Kingston during the late war in 1812 and since that time I have held the office of Colonel in the said Militia. Witnessed by Caleb William and William Boyd.
[10g] 10 Sep 1849, Samuel Solmes, Esq, Sophiasburgh Tp ... Capt Cornelius Vanalstine was attached to Capt Cotters Company in 1812 ... that he has known Vanalstine for more than 30 years
[10h] 28 Aug 1849, Caleb Williams, Hallowell Tp, Esq and William Boyd, Athol Tp, wheelwright ... witnessed the assignment on 23 Aug 1849 [see 10f]
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V519, V5/10, C-2949, image 798

MARGARET VANALSTINE DUE - daughter of George W Meyers, UE
[Note: Peter Vanalstine is a son of Cornelius Vanalstine.]
29 Jan 1834, Midland District, Margaret Vanalstine, wife of Peter Vanalstine of Sydney Tp., daughter of George W Meyers, Sydney Tp, UE Loyalist ... married ...never received lands ... prays for 200 acres
[fold] 26 May 1834. In Council 5 Jun 1834, recommended, order issued 6 Jun 1834
Source: UCLP, RG1 L3, LAC, V517, V18/4, C-2948, image 778



7. 1800 WILL & PROBATE
It is widely written that Major Peter Vanalstine died in 1811 however his will and Power of Attorney papers below clearly identify that he died between 10 May 1800 and 15 November 1800. His will is dated 10 May 1800 when he is still obviously alive and a power of attorney dated 15 Nov 1800 states that he "is since dead".

Will – 10 May 1800
In the name of God Amen, I Peter Vanalstine of Adolphustown Midland District and province of Upper Canada, being in health and calling to mind the uncertainty of  time, do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament, in manner, following, that is to say, First I will and positively Order, that all my just debts and Funeral charges be paid and for the accomplishing thereof, I do hereby impower my executors and Executrix herein after named, to sell so much of my Estate as together with my ready cash will be sufficient to discharge the same, I give and bequeath unto my Son, Alexander Vanalstine my best fowling pece for his birth right, It is my Will, and I order, that my Son Cornelius Vanalstine, have as much of my stock as to make him as to make equal to what my Son Alexander, and my Daughter Alley Myres have already had. I give and devise unto my two Nieces Alley Dorland and Scynthe VanDyck and to the heirs of their Bodys?, Four Hundred acres of Land being Lots number seven and eight, in the Second Concession West Side of the West Lake, to be equally divided between them. I give and demise unto my three children, Viz Alexander Vanalstine Alley Myers and Cornelius Vanalstine their heirs and assigns, all my real and personal Estate of what nature? ???? that may be left after paying any just debts, and taking out what ???? before is given, to be eaqually divided amongst them.
 
It is my Will, and I do constitute my two sons Alexander and Cornelius Vanalstine my Executors , and my Daughter Alley Myres my Executrix of this my last Will and Testament.
In witness thereof I Peter Vanalstine have to this my last Will and Testament, set my hand and seal this tenth day of May 1800.
[signed]
Thos Dorland                                                   P V Alstine
Robert McDowall
Abraham Maybe

Power of Attorney – 15 Nov 1800 (written after death of Peter Vanalstine)
Know All Men by these presents That whereas Peter Van Alstine of Adolphustown Midland District County of Lennox and province of Upper Canada, by his last Will and Testament  bearing Date the Tenth day of May and in the year of Our Lord one thousand Eight hundred. Did give and bequeath to Alexander Van Alstine, Alada Meyres and Cornelius Van Alstin, each of them third of his Estate after paying his just debts Funeral charges and four hundred acres of land to his Two Neices Alley Dorland, Synthia Van Dyck and of his said Will made and Constituted the aforesaid Alexander Van Alstine Cornelius Van Alstine & Alada Meyres Executrs and Executrix. And wereas the same Peter Van Alstine is since dead. Now know ye That We the said Cornelius Van Alstine & Alada Meyres have made ordained constituted and appointed and by these Presents do make ordain constitute and appoint Our loving Brother Alexander Van Alstine of Marysburgh. Midland District County Prince Edward and Province aforesaid our true and lawfull Attorney for us and in our names and for our Use to ask demand sue for recover and receive of William Weeks Esq of the town of york Home District and province of Upper Canada and from all other persons who are indebted to us by the last Will and Testament of Peter Van Alstine aforesaid all such sum and sums of Money. Debts and Duties whatsoeverto have these and take all Lawfull means and ways in our Name or otherwise for Recovery thereof by Attachment? Arrest, Distress or otherwise and to agree and compound for the same and acquittment? or other sufficient Discharges for the same  for Us and in our names to make seal and Deliver and to do all other Lawfull Acts and things whatsoever concerning the Promises as fully in every ???? as if we were personally present , and Attorneys one or more under him for the Purpose aforesaid to make and at his Pleasure to work, ratifying and allowing and whatsoever our said Attorney shall in our Names Lawfully do or cause to be done in and about the premises by Nature of these Presents.
 
in Witness we have present to set our Names and Seals this fifteenth day of November and in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred.
 
Signed sealed and delivered in the presence of us –
Allen Clarke
Joseph Carnahan
 
Signed
Corns Vanalstine
Alada W Meyers
 
Personally appear before me Thomas Dorland Esq the above signed and sealed and acknowledged within power of Attorney to be their Voluntary act and for the purpose therein mentioned the day and year above written
[signed] Thos Dorland
 
Proof of will - 24 Nov 1800
Province of Upper Canada, Home District …
Before one David Burns, Official Principal of the Court of Probate ….
Personally … appeared Thomas Dorland … witness to the foregoing Will of Peter Vanalstine …. he was present and did see the said Peter Vanalstine sign and seal the said Will ….was of sound mind and memory and understanding … in the presence of Thomas Dorland Robert McDowall and Abraham Maybe  …. 24th day of November in the Year of our Lord one Thousand Eight Hundred.
Signed D Burns, Off P                         T Ridout, Register
Source: Court of Probate estate files, RG 22-155, AO, MS638, reel 69



8. BROTHERS AND SISTERS of Peter Van Alstine
SANDER (ALEXANDER) VAN ALSTYNE was born about 05 Jan 1701. He died on 11 Nov 1756. He married Elbertje Van Alen, daughter of Pieter Van Alen and Josina Dingman on 02 Nov 1733. She was born on 17 Feb 1712. She died about 1812.
Sander (Alexander) Van Alstyne and Elbertje Van Alen had the following children:
  • i.    MARIA VAN ALSTYNE was born about 26 Oct 1735 in Kinderhook, New York. She died about 1835. She married LAURENS HOES.
  • ii.    ELIZABETH VAN ALSTYNE was born about 16 Jan 1737. She died in 1737.
  • iii.    ABRAHAM VAN ALSTYNE was born about 03 Sep 1738 in Albany, New York. He died about 1838. He married (1) ENGELTJE STINGERLAND on 28 Apr 1763. He married GARRETJE VAN ALEN.
  • iv.    ELIZABETH VAN ALSTYNE was born about 31 May 1741 in Coxsackie, New York. She died about 1841.
  • v. MAJOR PETER VANALSTINE , U.E. was born before 05 Jun 1743. He died between 10 May-15 Nov 1800 in Adolphustown, Lennox Co. He married Alida Van Alen, daughter of Cornelius Van Alen and Alida Pruyn on 24 Sep 1769. She was born before 03 Feb 1748. She died about 03 Aug 1784 in Sorrel, Quebec, Canada.
  • vi.    JOHANNES VAN ALSTYNE was born about 16 Jul 1745. He died about 1845. He married Sarah Van Der Poel on 05 Mar 1774.
  • vii.    ZEYNTJE VAN ALSTYNE was born about 17 Jan 1748. He died between 1749-1842.
  • viii.    LAWRENCE VAN ALSTYNE was born about 06 May 1750.
  • ix.    ALEXANDER VAN ALSTYNE was born about 05 Jan 1753 in Kinderhook, New York. He died in 1789. He married SARAH WITBECK.