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This Lineage was Last
Reviewed and Updated in April 2019
_______ Shirley
Editor: After very careful sorting
of Shirley families in cos Kilkenny and Carlow Ireland, it's
reasonable to speculate the father of William Shirley (m. Elizabeth
Kidd) is John Shirley of Knockabranna, Old Leighlin Parish, co
Carlow. He is the only Shirley living at Knockabranna at the
time, who was of the correct age, etc. Maybe William was born
of a first wife of John Shirley and was (as was often the case
for children of 1st wives) not mentioned in his ?father John
Shirley's 1836 Will. Nor did he inherit anything because he was
living a world away in Canada? (All speculation at this point,
no proof whatsoever, but the circumstantial evidence is growing).
Example:
John Shirley of Knockabranna Old
Leighlin parish co Carlow (d 1836) had a daughter Anne who married
George Willoughby in co Carlow. They migrated about 1818 to Beckwith
Township, Lanark County Ontario Province Canada. They are buried
there. William Shirley (below) also lived at one time in Beckwith
Township, Lanark County. And William also migrated about 1818
married ________
children:
1(i). William Shirley of Lanark
and Lambton Cos Ontario Canada born say 1786 at Knockabranna
County Carlow Ireland. He married Elizabeth Kidd by license on
16 December 1806 at Old Leighlin Parish, County Carlow Ireland.
He and his family moved to Canada sometime after the birth of
son Thomas in 1814 (born Co Carlow); Various family biographies
and obituaries fix the date of migration in 1818 (wife Elizabeth
obit) and in 1821 (bio of son Thomas). The biography of son Thomas
and obituary of son George state the family lived for a time
at Drummond Township, Lanark Co Ontario; Indeed, records show
that William Shirley was granted 100 acres of land by the Crown
in Drummond Township in 1824; However, the family likely resided
there as early as 1821, when a Shirley was enumerated there.
William Shirley was taxed on land known as Lot 11, Concession
11 in 1822; Not long after selling the land at Drummond, the
family moved to Beckwith Township, Lanark County and resided
there for a considerable period of time. According to the bios/obits
of sons Thomas and George, the family migrated to Lambton County
in Western Ontario about 1839 (Thomas bio) or in 1846 (George
obit). The Lambton County census for 1851 has been lost, so nothing
known about the family from that source, but William Shirley
was certainly deceased by the 1861 census, when his wife Elizabeth
was widowed and residing alone in Brooke Township, Lambton County;
married Elizabeth Kidd at Old Leighlin Parish, Co.
Carlow Ireland on 15 December 1806; She was born in Ireland about
1787 the daughter of William Kidd who migrated from Ireland to
Beckwith Twp Lanark Co Ontario where he died and left a will
dated 1828, naming his daughter Elizabeth, wife of "Shirley";
She was age 71, widowed and living in the household of son Thomas
in 1861 census for Brooke Twp, Lambton Co Ontario and age 84
in the 1881 Lambton Co census; She died 24 January 1882, age
95. Buried Saint James Cemetery, Watford Lambton County Ontario
(tombstone)
16 Dec 1806 Marriage License. Elizabeth Kidd and William
Sherly, of Knockabranna Co Carlow, Parish of Old Leighlin. Cliff-Vigors
Papers, National Archives of Ireland
1829 - Lanark. Land Records 1820–1834 folio 144 of
Memorial No 465 Beckwith - A Memorial to be Registered pursuant
to the statute in such case made and provided of a Will dated
the Twenty first day of February in the year of our Lord one
thousand eight hundred and twenty eight, made by William Kidd
of the Township of Beckwith, in the County of Lanark, in the
District of Bathurst farmer, Whereby the said William Kidd did
give, demise and bequeath to Elizabeth his Daughter, wife of
Shirley All that Lot of Land , being the East half of Lot number
Seventeen in the Second Concession of Beckwith , in the County
of Lawark , and District aforesaid - Together with half his ,
house - hold furniture and Bedlikewise to his Daughter Sarah
wife of Edward Griffin , the sum of Eight pounds lawful money
of Upper Canada half to be paid in Cash and the other half in
value ) to be paid out of the above mentioned lot of land - Together
with the other half of his house - hold furnature a Cow and two
small pigs - N. B. two pounds to be paid in six months after
my decease and two pounds yearly untill Eight pounds is paid
- likewise to his Nephew Thomas Shirley a yoke of Steers and
two chains -- and also to his son Thomas Kidd the sum of five
shillings and six pence of lawful money aforesaid to be paid
by his executors & which said Will is witnessed by John Kidd
of the Township of Beckwith Yeoman , William Salter of the same
place yeoman , and James Kilfile of the same place yeoman , and
this memorial thereof is hereby required to be Registered by
me the said Elizabeth Shirley the Divise therein named , as Witness
my hand and seal this Seventeenth day of February in the year
of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty nine Signed
and sealed in presence of ? James Kilfile John Shorlay his mark
<s> Elizabeth Shirley her mark
 Elizabeth
(Kidd) Shirley. On Tuesday 24 February, Mrs. Elizabeth Shirley,
mother of George Shirley Esq., 12th line Brooke, passed away
at the great age of over 95 years. Although she had been in failing
health for some time past, having been a bed-lier for over four
years, yet her death was very sudden and unexpected. Mrs. Shirley
has been a long in this Country having come from County of Carlow,
Ireland in 1818. She has passed away full years and respected
by all who knew her. Her remains were borne to the Church of
England Cemetery 14con Brooke on Thursday and interred by her
pastor Rev. E. Softley. (St. James Cemetery Brooke Township).
- Watford Guide Advocate (newspaper), Feb 1882.
This is a Protestant - Church of England Family
children: (there are big gaps between children,
1808/1814, then 1814/1821)
2(i). Mary Shirley chr 24 April 1808 to William and
Elizabeth Shirley at Old Leighlin Parish, County Carlow Ireland;
She likely died young
24 Apr 1808 Mary Shirley chr to William and Elizabeth Shirley
of Old Leighlin Old Leighlin Parish
2(ii). Thomas Shirley born on 14 May 1814 at County
Carlow Ireland (newspaper bio), Immigrated to Canada with parents
in 1821. Living at Brooke Twp. Lambton County, Ontario in 1861
census (age 46), in 1871 (age 57) and again in 1881 census (age
66), occupation: farmer, member of the Church of England. He
died 29 June 1899, age 84. Buried Saint James Cemetery, Watford
Lambton County Ontario
 Thomas
Shirley. In a former issue of the Guide-Advocate the decease
of Mr. Shirley was briefly noticed. He was one of the few remaining
pioneer of the Township of Brooke. He had almost reached the
age of 85 years, having been born in the County of Carlow, Ireland,
on the 14th May 1814. He came to Canada in 1821, and settled
with his father's family in the township of Drummond, in the
County of Lanark. The family soon after removed to the Township
of Beckwith, where he grew up to manhood. He served in the Royal
Canadian Borderers during the rebellion of 1837-8, being stationed
at Brockville during the winters of 37-8 and 38-9. He came to
the County of Lambton (then the Western District) in the fall
of 1839, purchased the farm upon which he lived until the time
of his death. On the 6th of July, 1842, he was united in marriage
to Miss Jane Larrett, who survives him, the Rev. Mr. Mortimer,
then rector of Adelaide officiating. Mr. Shirley's name appears
in the records of the Township of Brooke as having attended the
second Town Meeting, held in the Township. It was held at "Brooke
Mills" (now Alvinston) on the 2nd day of January 1843. There
were no councils then. The people met and elected a Town Clerk,
Assesor, Collector, Fence Viewers and Poundkeepers. Mr. Andrew
Lucas, of 12th Con., Brooke is the only person now living who
was elected to office that day. The late Mr. Shirley was collector
for Brooke in 1846, 7, 8 and 9, was appointed treasurer in 1850,
which office he resigned and was elected councillor in 1851 and
for many years subsequently. About 1880 he retired from public
affairs having never been defeated at the polls. He enjoyed a
high record for probity and honorable dealing in the neighborhood
where he lived so long. He was scrupalously exact to fulfil his
every pledge. His word was his bond and so accepted without questioning.
The late Mr. Shirley was a Conservative in politics, but independent
enough to support Hon. George Brown, and afterwards Hope E. and
Hon. A. Mackenzie in the 50's and 60's when he thought his party
had gone wrong. After five years of Reform rule from 73 to 78
he became more firmly attached to Conservative principles than
ever before. Their religious principles which he most professed
was to obey the Divine injunction "Do justly, love mercy
and walk uprightly with thy God." His family and friends
are fully satisfied that he departed in the full faith of a blessed
resurrection to eternal life. "The sweet remembrance of
the just Shall flourish when he sleeps in dust." - Watford
Guide Advocate (newspaper) 10 February 1899
married Jane Larrett on 6 July 1842; She was born abt
1825, age 55 in 1881 Ontario. She died 12 August 1899, buried
at St James Cemetery, Watford Lambton County
Jane Shirley. Another old resident of Brooke passed away
on Saturday, at the home of her son-in-law, Mr. W.S. Kelly, Watford
in the person of Jane, relict of the late Thomas Shirley, in
her 74th year. Mr. Shirley died last January. The funeral took
place Sunday afternoon to St. James Cemetery, Brooke, the service
being conducted by the Rev. F.G. Newton, of Warwick. - Watford
Guide Advocate (newspaper) 18 Aug 1899
children
3(i). William Shirley born about 1854 in Ontario, age
17 in 1861 census, age 27 in parent's 1871 census household;
He supposedly lived in Portland Oregon USA
(but not traced thusfar)
3(ii). Eliza Jane Shirley born about 1846 in Ontario,
age 15 in 1861 census household; She died 1 July 1872 and was
buried at Mount Carmel Cemetery at Brooke Township, Lambton County
Ontario, age only about 25. She married Robert Coristine son
of Rodyford and Mary Ann Corristine on 8 October 1868 at Lambton
County (her parents named)
3(iii). John Shirley born 5 May 1848 in Ontario [source
1901 Ontario Census], age 13 in 1861 census, age 22 in parent's
1871 census household; His parents Thomas and Jane Shirley were
identified in his marriage to Martha Ann Carroll in 1879 at Brooke
Lambton County; He was married with a family living in Brooke
Lambton County in 1881 census, age 32, member of Church of England;
He died 3 Apr 1916. He was Irish and a member of the Church of
England. "of 12th line Brooke"
married Martha Ann Caroll on 21 Jan 1879 at Brooke
Lambton County; She was born 1 July 1857 [source 1901 census]
daughter of Edward and Eliza Carroll; She died 14 Feb 1946.
children:
4(i). Ernest Howard Shirley born 16 Nov 1879 to John
Shirley and Martha Ann Carroll at Brooke Lambton County Ontario,
age 1 in 1881 census; age 21 in parent's 1901 census household;
He died in 1939 and was buried at St James Cemetery, Watford,
Lambton County
married Louisa Powell on 5 February 1910 at Port Stanley,
Elgin Co Ontario; She was the daughter of Williaim Powell and
Mary Jane Davies
Their descendant: "Albert Shirley, as of 2003,
still lived on the family farm in Brooke Township."
4(ii). Neville Carl Shirley born 17 April 1881 to John
Shirley and Martha Ann Carroll at Brooke Twp. Lambton County;
age 19 in 1901 census; He died on 27 Feb 1959
married Mary Jane Saunders on 2 Nov 1910. She was born
18 April 1884
Ancestor of DNA Kit #78112
4(iii). John Alvin Shirley born on 19 August 1886 to
John Shirley and Martha Ann Carroll at Brooke Lambton County;
age 14 in 1901 census; Married and lived in Manitoba in 1916
province census; He moved to California USA and petitioned for
US citizenship naturalization in 1937; He died in Los Angeles
County California on 30 October 1980, buried at San Gabriel Cemetery
married Irene Winifred _____ She was age 44 in 1930
census
married 2) Lucille West, She is buried in San Gabriel
Cemetery with her husband
3(iv). Thomas Shirley born about 1850 in Ontario, age
11 in 1861 census, age 20 in parent's 1871 census household,
age 30 in parent's 1881 census household, ditto. Enumerated in
Vancouver British Columbia in 1911 census, age 54; Deputy Sheriff
of Vancouver BC
married Ellen Jane Donaldson on 10 October 1889 at
Vancouver British Columbia; She was the daughter of John Donaldson
and Margaret Morrow
children:
4(i). Albert Ernie Shirley born 15 August 1890 at Vancouver
British Columbia to Thomas Shirley and Ellen Jane Donaldson (death
cert says 1889), age 10 in 1901 census, age 20 in parent's 1911
census household; He died on 4 July 1952 at Vancouver BC (death
cert, parents named)
married Dorothy May Wilkes
4(ii). Ina Shirley born about 1892 in British Columbia,
age 9 in 1901 census, age 19 in 1911 census
4(iii). Alma R Shirley born about 1894 in British Columbia,
age 7 in 1901 census, age 17 in 1911 census (as Nora)
3(v). Caroline Shirley born 1 December 1853 at Brooke
Lambton County Ontario (death cert), age 9 in 1861 census, age
18 in 1871 census; She died on 3 July 1921 at Watford Lambton
County (death cert); She married W. S. Kelly
3(vi). Paul Shirley born about 1855 in Ontario, age
6 in 1861 census, age 16 in 1871 census; He died on 4 March 1877,
buried at St James Cemetery, Watford Lambton County (tombstone),
age 21
3(vii). Albert G Shirley born about 1859 in Ontario,
age 2 in 1861 census, age 11 in 1871 census, age 21 in 1881 census;
He is living as a single man in Brooke Twp, Lambton County in
1891 census
3(viii). Mary A E Shirley born about 1862 in Ontario,
age 9 in 1871 census, age 19 in 1881 census (as Annie)
3(ix). Victor Wellington Shirley MD born about
1866 in Ontario, age 5 in 1871 census, age 15 in 1881 census,
age 25 and living as a border and single at Watford Lambton County
in 1891 census; He was 40 years old at the time of his first
marriage in Michigan (his parents named). He lived at Hamtrack
Twp Wayne County Michigan USA in the 1930 census, age 64; His
neice Shirley J Neil age 12 was living in the household at the
time; He was a Veternarian of Brant Michigan, USA; No apparent
children
married Martha Mielke on 21 March 1906 at Metz Presque
Isle Michigan USA; She was age 20 at the time of her marriage
to Victor W Shirley; She died 5 May 1957, her obituary noted
in teh Detroit Free Press at the time. Buried at Roseland Park
3(x). Laura M. Shirley born about 1868 in Ontario,
age 3 in 1871 census, age 13 in 1881 census (as Lorna). Unmarried
in 1899 at the time of her uncle George Shirley's obituary
2(iii). Anne Shirley born 31 March 1821 (tombstone)
Mentioned in the 1899 obituary of her brother George Shirley;
She died 14 August 1901, age 80. She was buried at Saint James
Cemtery, Watford, Lambton Co Ontario; She married Thomas Willoughby;
2(iv). George Shirley esquire born about 1824 at Drummond
Twp, Ontario. He was enumerated at Brooke Township, Lambton County
Ontario in 1861, age 37, born in Canada, member of the Church
of England; Lived at Brooke Twp Lambton in 1871 census, age 48,
occupation farmer; He was age 57 in the 1881 Lambton Co census;
He died 25 October 1899, age 75. Buried Saint James Cemetery,
Watford Lambton County Ontario
 George
Shirley, esq. The funeral of the late George Shirley, Esq., who
died on Wednesday 25th October in his 76th year, took place on
Friday afternoon from the family residence, St. Clair St., to
St. James Cemetery, Brooke. Notwithstanding the inclement weather
a large number turned out to pay the last tribute of respect
to an old and honored citizen. The funeral service was conducted
by the Rev. J. Downie, B.D., assisted by the Rev. W.G.H. McAlister,
M.A., and Rev. R. Haddow, B.D. The pallbearers were George R.
Shirley, John Shirley, R. Alexander, J.R. Logan, Paul Kingston
and Wm. Kelly. The deceased was twice married and leaves a family
of 2 sons, George R., of Brooke; and E.J., of Watford; and 4
daughters, Miss Sarah; Mrs. Paul Kingston of Brooke; Mrs. Robert
Alexander of Warwick; and Mrs. John R. Logan of Sarnia, by his
1st wife, who was Miss Margaret King. In October 1891, he was
married to Mrs. McCaw of Brockville, who survives him. Mrs. Willoughby
of Watford and Mrs. Duncan of Lanark are the only surviving sisters.
The late Mr. Shirley was born in the Township of Drummond, Lanark
County, in 1823, and was a son of William Shirley, of that place.
He came west about 1846, settling in the Township of Brooke,
where he continued to reside until 10 years ago when he removed
to Watford. Being a man of superior ability and thorough knowledge
of municipal and political affairs he speedily came into prominence
and filled many positions of trust and responsibility, among
others, Clerk and Reeve of Brooke, for a number of years, Warden
of Lambton, County Auditor, Reeve of Watford for 2 terms, Justice
of the Peace, President and Treasurer of the East Lambton Liberal
Conservative Association, Returning Officer, and at the time
of his death was a member of the Watford Council. He took an
active and leading part in politics and in 1879 was the Conservative
candidate in East Lambton against Peter Graham, the latter winning
by a narrow majority. Few men were better informed on the issues
of the day, or had the faculty of presenting their views more
clearly or forcibly. In his death, Lambton loses one of its most
prominent and ablest citizens, whose work has left its impress
on the history of the county. (Private services were held in
the house previous to interment, as some of the relatives feared
to face the heavy downpour of rain. His sister, Mrs. Duncan,
resides in the County of Leeds instead of Lanark, and his nephew,
W.G. Willoughby, was one of the pallbearers, the name of Mr.
Kelly being mentioned mistakenly.) - Watford Guide Advocate (newspaper)
October 1899
married 1) Margaret King She was enumerated as the
spouse of George Shirley in the 1861 census, age 32, born Ireland,
age 42 in 1871 census, age 52 in 1881 census; She died on 12
August 1883, age 44 and buried at St James Cemetery, Watford,
Lambton Co
married 2) Mrs McCaw of Brockville in October 1891
children
3(i). Sarah A. Shirley born about 1850 in Canada, age
11 in 1861 census, age 20 in parent's 1871 census household,
age 30 in parent's 1881 census household; She died unmarried
in 1925; Buried at St. James Cemetery, Watford, Lambton County
Sarah A. Shirley. The death of Miss Sarah Ann Shirley occurred
after a brief illness, at the home of her sister, Mrs. John R.
Logan, 298 Wellington St., Sarnia, on Sunday 17th May 1925. The
deceased was in her 75th year and was the eldest daughter of
the late George Shirley and had spent her entire life in this
community. Miss Shirley won for herself many true friends by
her sterling character and integrity. She leaves to mourn her
loss 2 sisters, Mrs. John R. Logan of Sarnia and Mrs. Paul Kingston
of Watford, also 2 brothers George of Watford and Edward James
of Oshawa. On Monday, after a short service at the home of her
sister, Mrs. Logan, conducted by Rev. F.G. Newton, the body was
brought to Trinity Church, Watford. The service which was largely
attended by relatives and friends was very ably conducted by
Rev. J.H. Hosford, assisted by the choir. The pallbearers were;
John R. Logan, W.E. Fitzgerald, John Carroll, Roland King, George
F, Kingston and Paul S. Kingston. Friends from Oshawa, Sarnia
and Brantford attended the funeral. Interment was made in St.
James Cemetery, Brooke.- Watford Guide Advocate (newspaper) May
1925
3(ii). Mary Elizabeth Shirley born about 1855 in Canada,
age 6 in 1861 census, age 15 in 1871 census, age 24 in parent's
1881 census household (as Elizabeth). She married Paul Kingston,
son of Paul and Margaret Kingston on 31 December 1884 at Brook
Township, Lambton County (her parents named)
3(iii). Margaret Jeane Shirley born about 1857 in Canada,
age 4 in 1861 census, age 13 in 1871 census, age 22 in parent's
1881 census household (as Jeane); She married Robert Alexander
son of Thomas and Maria Alexander on 10 June 1885 at Brooke Township,
Lambton County (her parents named)
3(iv). George Robert Shirley born 12 November 1860
in Canada, age 1 in 1861 census, age 10 in 1871 census, age 20
in parent's 1881 census household; Parents named in his 1888
marriage record; Mentioned in the 1899 obituary of his father
George Shirley as residing at that time in Brooke Township, Lambton
County; He died on 1 June 1936 at Watford Lambton County (death
cert, parents named)
married 1) Margaret J Kennedy on 31 October 1888 at
Brooke Lambton County; She was the daughter of Michael and Nancy
Kennedy
married 2) Selina Evelyn Coke on 5 October 1920 at
Watford Lambton County; She was the daughter of Laurence Coke
and Mary Ann Kennedy; Named as spouse on the 1936 death certificate
of her husband George R Shirley
children:
4(i). Helena Victoria Shirley born on 2 December 1890
at Brooke Twp Lambton County to George Robert Shirley and Margaret
Jane Kennedy; Her named is found on the tombstone of her parents
3(v). Edward James Shirley born 22 July 1864 at Brooke,
Lambton County Ontario (US immigration), age 6 in 1871 census
age 16 in 1881 census; Mentioned in the 1899 obituary of his
father George Shirley as residing at that time in Watford Township,
Lambton County; He was noted in US records when he crossed into
Niagara NY on 4 October 1943 on his way for a visit to Florida,
age 79
married Maria Annie Crone
children:
4(i). Lloyd Crone Shirley born 3 June 1889 to Edward
James Shirley and Maria Annie Crone at Brooke Lambton County
4(ii). Russell Edward Shirley born 22 October 1891
to Edward James Shirley and Maria Annie Crone at Brooke Lambton
County
4(iii). Reginald Shirley born 4 June 1896 to Edward
James Shirley and Maria Annie Crone at Brooke Lambton County
4(iv). Georgia Margaret Shirley born 18 December 1899
to Edward James Shirley and Maria Annie Crone at Warwick Lambton
County
4(v). Frances Edna Shirley born 6 February 1902 to
Edward James Shirley and Maria Annie Crone at Pickering Ontario
County, Ontario
3(vi). Esther Abigail Shirley born about 1870 in Canada,
age 1 in 1871 census, age 11 in 1881 census (as Abbie); She married
John Robert Logan son of John and Margaret Logan on 31 October
1894 at Watford, Lambton County (her parents named)
Abigail Shirley
(source: Photo album of Joseph Leslie Holbrook, now possessed
in Australia)
2(v). Mary Shirley born about 1825 in Lanark County,
Ontario Canada, daughter of William Shirley (b Ireland) and Elizabeth
Kidd (death record). She married John Duncan, named in the 1900
marriage record of their son George Shirley Duncan; She was mentioned
in the 1899 obituary of her brother George Shirley stating that
she was at that time living in Leeds County; She died on 10 December
1909 at North Crosby, Leeds County Ontario, age 84 (parents named)
1821 Drummond, Lanark Ontario Census
SHIRLEY, John 1 2 2 6 (Head, women, sons, daus, # in HH)
1822 Drummond, Lanark Ontario Assessment List
William Shirley Lot 11, Con 11
1861 Lambton Ontario Census
Thomas Ire CE (Ch. Eng.) 46 Farmer
Jane Ont CE 37 (Nee Larrett)
William Ont CE 17 Labourer
Eliza Jane Ont CE 15
John Ont CE 13
Thomas Ont CE 11
Caroline Ont CE 9
Paul Ont CE 6
Albert G. Ont CE 2
Elizabeth Ire CE 71 Widow
Marriage
#010197-02 (Lambton Co): Henry Gustav BLUMENFIELD, 31, farmer,
Michigan USA, same, s/o Albert BLUMENFIELD & Hannah GUSKECHT,
married Laura Maria SHIRLEY, 34, Brooke, Walford, d/o Thomas
SHIRLEY & Jane LARRETT, witn: Howard SHIRLEY of Brooke twp
& Esther BLUMENFIELD of Michigan USA, 12 March 1902 at Walford
Obituaries
WATFORD GUIDE ADVOCATE 29 JANUARY 1899
THOMAS SHIRLEY
After a lingering and painfull illness, Thomas Shirley, one
of the pioneer settlers of Brooke, passed away on Sunday last
in his 85th year. The surviving members of his family are: William
of Portland, Oregon; John of 12th line Brooke; Thomas, Deputy
Sheriff of Vancouver, B.C.; Caroline, wife of W.S. Kelly of Watford;
Victor W. Veterinary Surgeon of Brant, Michigan and Laura M.,
at home. The funeral took place Monday to the English Cemetery,
6th line. Rev. J. Downie conducting the service.
WATFORD GUIDE ADVOCATE 10 FEBRUARY 1899
THOMAS SHIRLEY
In a former issue of the Guide-Advocate the decease of Mr.
Shirley was briefly noticed. He was one of the few remaining
pioneer of the Township of Brooke. He had almost reached the
age of 85 years, having been born in the County of Carlow, Ireland,
on the 14th May 1814. He came to Canada in 1821, and settled
with his father's family in the township of Drummond, in the
County of Lanark. The family soon after removed to the Township
of Beckwith, where he grew up to manhood. He served in the Royal
Canadian Borderers during the rebellion of 1837-8, being stationed
at Brockville during the winters of 37-8 and 38-9. He came to
the County of Lambton (then the Western District) in the fall
of 1839, purchased the farm upon which he lived until the time
of his death. On the 6th of July, 1842, he was united in marriage
to Miss Jane Larrett, who survives him, the Rev. Mr. Mortimer,
then rector of Adelaide officiating. Mr. Shirley's name appears
in the records of the Township of Brooke as having attended the
second Town Meeting, held in the Township. It was held at "Brooke
Mills" (now Alvinston) on the 2nd day of January 1843. There
were no councils then. The people met and elected a Town Clerk,
Assesor, Collector, Fence Viewers and Poundkeepers. Mr. Andrew
Lucas, of 12th Con., Brooke is the only person now living who
was elected to office that day. The late Mr. Shirley was collector
for Brooke in 1846, 7, 8 and 9, was appointed treasurer in 1850,
which office he resigned and was elected councillor in 1851 and
for many years subsequently. About 1880 he retired from public
affairs having never been defeated at the polls. He enjoyed a
high record for probity and honorable dealing in the neighborhood
where he lived so long. He was scrupalously exact to fulfil his
every pledge. His word was his bond and so accepted without questioning.
The late Mr. Shirley was a Conservative in politics, but independent
enough to support Hon. George Brown, and afterwards Hope E. and
Hon. A. Mackenzie in the 50's and 60's when he thought his party
had gone wrong. After five years of Reform rule from 73 to 78
he became more firmly attached to Conservative principles than
ever before. Their religious principles which he most professed
was to obey the Divine injunction "Do justly, love mercy
and walk uprightly with thy God." His family and friends
are fully satisfied that he departed in the full faith of a blessed
resurrection to eternal life. "The sweet remembrance of
the just Shall flourish when he sleeps in dust."
WATFORD GUIDE ADVOCATE 18 AUGUST 1899
JANE SHIRLEY
Another old resident of Brooke passed away on Saturday, at
the home of her son-in-law, Mr. W.S. Kelly, Watford in the person
of Jane, relict of the late Thomas Shirley, in her 74th year.
Mr. Shirley died last January. The funeral took place Sunday
afternoon to St. James Cemetery, Brooke, the service being conducted
by the Rev. F.G. Newton, of Warwick.
WATFORD GUIDE ADVOCATE 10 JULY 1967
LOUISE SHIRLEY
Mrs. Louise Shirley, 88 died Sunday. The former Louisa Powell,
she was predeceased by her husband Ernest Howard Shirley of the
Watford area. Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Mary McLean of Watford
and a son Albert of Brooke Township. Funeral service will he
held from Harper Funeral Home, at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday. Burial
will be in St. James Anglican Church Cemetery, Brooke Township.
WATFORD GUIDE ADVOCATE OCTOBER 1899
GEORGE SHIRLEY, ESQUIRE
The funeral of the late George Shirley, Esq., who died on
Wednesday 25th October in his 76th year, took place on Friday
afternoon from the family residence, St. Clair St., to St. James
Cemetery, Brooke. Notwithstanding the inclement weather a large
number turned out to pay the last tribute of respect to an old
and honored citizen. The funeral service was conducted by the
Rev. J. Downie, B.D., assisted by the Rev. W.G.H. McAlister,
M.A., and Rev. R. Haddow, B.D. The pallbearers were George R.
Shirley, John Shirley, R. Alexander, J.R. Logan, Paul Kingston
and Wm. Kelly. The deceased was twice married and leaves a family
of 2 sons, George R., of Brooke; and E.J., of Watford; and 4
daughters, Miss Sarah; Mrs. Paul Kingston of Brooke; Mrs. Robert
Alexander of Warwick; and Mrs. John R. Logan of Sarnia, by his
1st wife, who was Miss Margaret King. In October 1891, he was
married to Mrs. McCaw of Brockville, who survives him. Mrs. Willoughby
of Watford and Mrs. Duncan of Lanark are the only surviving sisters.
The late Mr. Shirley was born in the Township of Drummond, Lanark
County, in 1823, and was a son of William Shirley, of that place.
He came west about 1846, settling in the Township of Brooke,
where he continued to reside until 10 years ago when he removed
to Watford. Being a man of superior ability and thorough knowledge
of municipal and political affairs he speedily came into prominence
and filled many positions of trust and responsibility, among
others, Clerk and Reeve of Brooke, for a number of years, Warden
of Lambton, County Auditor, Reeve of Watford for 2 terms, Justice
of the Peace, President and Treasurer of the East Lambton Liberal
Conservative Association, Returning Officer, and at the time
of his death was a member of the Watford Council. He took an
active and leading part in politics and in 1879 was the Conservative
candidate in East Lambton against Peter Graham, the latter winning
by a narrow majority. Few men were better informed on the issues
of the day, or had the faculty of presenting their views more
clearly or forcibly. In his death, Lambton loses one of its most
prominent and ablest citizens, whose work has left its impress
on the history of the county. (Private services were held in
the house previous to interment, as some of the relatives feared
to face the heavy downpour of rain. His sister, Mrs. Duncan,
resides in the County of Leeds instead of Lanark, and his nephew,
W.G. Willoughby, was one of the pallbearers, the name of Mr.
Kelly being mentioned mistakenly.)
WATFORD GUIDE ADVOCATE MAY 1925
SARAH ANN SHIRLEY
The death of Miss Sarah Ann Shirley occurred after a brief
illness, at the home of her sister, Mrs. John R. Logan, 298 Wellington
St., Sarnia, on Sunday 17th May 1925. The deceased was in her
75th year and was the eldest daughter of the late George Shirley
and had spent her entire life in this community. Miss Shirley
won for herself many true friends by her sterling character and
integrity. She leaves to mourn her loss 2 sisters, Mrs. John
R. Logan of Sarnia and Mrs. Paul Kingston of Watford, also 2
brothers George of Watford and Edward James of Oshawa. On Monday,
after a short service at the home of her sister, Mrs. Logan,
conducted by Rev. F.G. Newton, the body was brought to Trinity
Church, Watford. The service which was largely attended by relatives
and friends was very ably conducted by Rev. J.H. Hosford, assisted
by the choir. The pallbearers were; John R. Logan, W.E. Fitzgerald,
John Carroll, Roland King, George F, Kingston and Paul S. Kingston.
Friends from Oshawa, Sarnia and Brantford attended the funeral.
Interment was made in St. James Cemetery, Brooke.
WATFORD GUIDE ADVOCATE FEBRUARY 1882
ELIZABETH (Kidd) SHIRLEY
On Tuesday 24 February, Mrs. Elizabeth Shirley, mother of George
Shirley Esq., 12th line Brooke, passed away at the great age
of over 95 years. Although she had been in failing health for
some time past, having been a bed-lier for over four years, yet
her death was very sudden and unexpected. Mrs. Shirley has been
a long in this Country having come from County of Carlow, Ireland
in 1918. She has passed away full years and respected by all
who knew her. Her remains were borne to the Church of England
Cemetery 14con Brooke on Thursday and interred by her pastor
Rev. E. Softley. (St. James Cemetery Brooke Township).
WATFORD GUIDE ADVOCATE 10 JULY 1967
LOUISA (Powell) SHIRLEY
Mrs. LouisA Shirley, 88, died Sunday. The former Louise Powell,
she was predeceased by her husband Ernest Howard Shirley of the
Watford area. Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Mary McLean, Watford
and a son Albert of Brooke Township. Funeral service will be
held from Harper Funeral Home, at 2;30 p.m. Wednesday. Burial
will be in St. James Anglican Church Cemetery, Brooke Township.
LONDON FREE PRESS 10 JULY 1967
LOUISA (Powell) SHIRLEY
Passed away on Sunday 9 July 1967 Louisa Powell, beloved wife
of Ernest Howard Shieley in her 89th year. Dear mother of Mrs.
Mary McLean of Watford; Albert of Brooke and predeceased by son
Harold, eight grandchildren and one great grandchild. Resting
at the Harper Funeral Home, Watford where services will he held
on Wednesday 12 July at 2;30 p.m. Interment if St. James Church
Cemetery Brooke Township.
WATFORD GUIDE ADVOCATE MAY 1925
SARAH ANN SHIRLEY
The death of Miss Sarah Ann Shirley occurred after a brief illness
at the home of her sister, Mrs. John R. Logan 298 Wellington
St, Sarnia on Sunday 17 May 1925. Deceased who was in her 75th
year was the eldest daughter of the late George Shirley and had
spent her entire life in this community. On Monday, after a short
service at the home of her sister, Mrs. Logan, conducted by Rev.
F.G. Newton the body was brought to Trinity Church, Watford.
The service which was largely attended by relatives and friends
was very able conducted by Rev. J.H. Hosford assisted by the
choir. Miss Shirley won for herself many true friends by her
sterling character and integrity. She leave to mourn her loss
two sisters; Mrs. John R. Logan of Sarnia and Mrs. Paul Kingston
of Watford, also two brothers George of Watford and Edward James
of Oshawa. Pallbearers were John R. Logan, W.E. Fitzgerald, John
Carroll, Roland King, George F. Kingston and Paul S. Kingston.
Friends from Oshawa, Sarnia and Brantford attended the funeral.
Interment was made in St. James Cemetery, Brooke Township.
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William Shirley