James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
Fonds consists largely of records created and collected by members of the Magrath family, including the Reverend James Magrath and his children, in the course of administering and occupying their farming estate (called Erindale) on the Credit River. Fonds includes correspondence, legal and financial records and ledgers, and plans of the estate and environs. There is also a small amount of material added to the fonds by later descendants of the family, including family histories and annotated transcriptions of the earliest Magrath correspondence.
The bulk of the correspondence consists of personal letters between family members, including James Magrath and his children, and most is written to Charles Magrath while on a trip to Ireland. Letters are largely concerned with family and personal affairs.
Note that the Magrath family correspondence includes occasional references to the activities of the First Nations (Mississauga Anishinaabe) people of the Credit area at that time referred to as the Credit Indians. The nature of these references is influenced by the perspective and prejudices of the Magraths.
The fonds comprises the following six series:
Series 1: Correspondence
Series 2: Legal records
Series 3: Financial records
Series 4: Family history records
Series 5: Erindale Estate maps and plans
Series 6: Transcriptions
This archival description comprises a partial revision of an earlier arrangement and description. Files have replaced sub-series and a series has been added. In the course of composing the earlier finding aid, items within files were marked with individual numbers which still appear on those documents. These numbers are useful in that they aid the researcher in matching documents with the corresponding transcriptions of those documents (found in Series 6); where this is the case item numbers have been noted in the current finding aid. Not all documents were transcribed.
The majority of documents in this fonds are fragile.
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. G. Sayers. One sheet of the architectural plans for the Dwelling House was received under a separate accession (1989.084) from the Ontario Association of Architects.
No further accruals expected.
The fonds appears to have been largely in the hands of the William Magrath branch of the family for some time. At some point the records reached the custody of the Sayers family. The fonds was donated to the Region of Peel Archives by Mrs. and Geoffrey Sayers.
A significant portion of the fonds has been microfilmed.
Open
Access to original documents is restricted when microfilm or typewritten transcriptions are available.
A detailed finding aid with transcripts is available for this fonds.
published
Series consists of letters sent between and to various members of the Magrath family. The bulk of the series (files 1 to 8) consists of letters send from his siblings and father to Charles Magrath. Of these, most were sent to Charles in Dublin during a single trip to administer some family land in Ireland.
Letters between Magrath family members largely concern family affairs, circumstances at Erindale and in the surrounding community, and family business and finances. Only one letter (to the Reverend Magrath) dates to the period before the family's immigration to Canada. There are a small number of professional or business letters.
Note that the Magrath family correspondence includes references to the Indigenous (Anishinaabe) people of the Credit area at that time referred to as the Credit Indians. The nature of these references is influenced by the perspective and prejudices of the Magraths.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of letters written from August to October 1844 to Charles Magrath in Ireland from various family members in Canada. Topics include weather, crops, family news, James Magrath's will, property, the Dean affair, and observations of a camp meeting of Indigenous peoples known at that time as the Credit Indians (letter 1.4, Sept. 4, 1844),.
During an earlier archival description the items in this file were assigned numbers A1.1-A1.10. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of letters written from October to November 1844 to Charles Magrath in Ireland from various family members in Canada. Topics include politics, elections, storms, marriages, John Stachan's wedding, the Dean affair, thoughts about Ireland.
During an earlier archival description the items in this file were assigned numbers A1.11-A1.20. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of letters written from November 1844 to March 1845 to Charles Magrath in Ireland from various family members in Canada. Topics include society life, Christmas preparation, the Dean affair, local suicide attempt, Toronto hot baths, Dixie and Grantham argument and and Indigneous predictions of the winter weather (letter A 1.21).
.
During an earlier archival description the items in this file were assigned numbers A1.21-A.32. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of letters written from March to May 1845 to Charles Magrath in Ireland from various family members in Canada. Topics include pleasure in letters, sugar-making by Indigenous peoples of the area (letter A 1.33, March 13, 1845), Dean affair, settling Irish property. Includes a note from a child.
During an earlier archival descriptions the items in this file were assigned numbers A1.33-A1.43. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of letters written from May to July 1845 to Charles Magrath in Ireland from various family members in Canada. Topics include financial shortfalls, new railroad, bad droughts, storms, stage between Toronto and Streetsville, fire in Quebec City, attendence at a concert, poultry, and local crimes.
During an earlier archival description the items in this file were assigned numbers A1.44-A1.54. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of letters written from August to September 1845 to Charles Magrath in Ireland from various family members in Canada. Topics include harvest celebration, fires, arson, camp meeting with Indigenous peoples known at that time as the Credit Indians (letter 1.62, Sept. 7, 1885), use of ear trumpet.
During an earlier archival description the items in this file were assigned numbers A1.55-A1.65. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of letters written from September 1845 to December 1846 to Charles Magrath in Ireland and elsewhere by various family members. Topics include Charles' wish to study law, Tom's travels, Dean affair, crops, ships leaving for Toronto.
During an earlier archival description the items in this file were assigned numbers A1.66-A1.74. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of letters written from March 1867 to February 1874 to Charles Magrath from various family members. Topics include the destruction of the Erindale house by fire and aftermath as well as other family news.
During an earlier archival description the items in this file were assigned numbers A1.75-A1.83. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of letters written to William Magrath from various family members and acquaintences. Topics include farming, ecclesiastical politics, financial affairs, and Charles' desire that William control the Erindale property.
During an earlier archival description the items in this file were assigned numbers A2.2-A2.7. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6 .
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of letters to and between various family members, including the Harris family of Benares into which Mary Magrath married. Topics include aftermath of Erindale fire, birth of Thomas' child, and family matters.
During an earlier archival description the items in this file were assigned numbers A3.1-A3.16. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of a letter of farewell and thanks from "the Gentlemen of Bagenalstown"upon the Reverend Magrath's leaving Ireland.
During an earlier archival description the item in this file was assigned the number A3.17. A transcription for this documents may be located by number in Series 6.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of two letters regarding financial matters, one to the Reverend James Magrath from Bishop John Strachan, and one to James Magrath (his son).
During an earlier archival descriptions the items in this file were assigned numbers A4.1-A4.2. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6.
published
Series consists of formal legal documents and related correspondence such as agreements, certificates, and indentures, and family records related to the disposition of the estate of the Reverend James Magrath.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of documents produced in anticipation or in consequence of the death of the Reverend James Magrath by him or his children. These include a codacil to his will (a copy of which is not included in the file), various letters exhorting his family not to sell Erindale and explaining his motivations in the disposition of his estate, list of papers included among his effects, signed promises of family members to abide by certain agreements among themselves, and a letter to lawyers from Charles regarding a dispute between Thomas and his siblings.
During an earlier archival descriptions the items in this file were assigned numbers C1.3-C1.9. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of various legal documents and instruments, including notice regarding land for the Great Western Railway in Ireland, commissions (as Public Notary and in the York Militia), a certification of the witnessing of the marriage of the Reverend James Magrath to Mary Douglass, Thomas William Magrath contract, Thomas Magrath (of County Roscommon, Ireland) contract, and a note of agreement between the Magrath brothers. The latter has been annotated by a descendent in 1946.
During an earlier archival descriptions the items in this file were assigned numbers D1.4 and C2.1-2.5. Transcriptions for these documents may be located by number in Series 6.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of two deeds for land in Ireland, one between Peter Langworth and Bryan Kenney and other between Thomas Magrath and James and Laughlin Lennon.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
Series consists of records kept largely in the course of administering the Erindale Estate and farms. Records include account books, receipts, statements of credit, and calculations. A small amount of material pertains to the personal finances of a Magrath descendent, Naomi Harris.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of mailed notes and calculations of a financial nature, and receipts.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of a ledger comprising accounts of the Erindale Estate kept by William Magrath. Accounting commences in 1867 with the construction of the second Erindale home and alludes to the destruction of the original house by fire. The ledger comprises a record of the Magrath family's dealings with local persons and businesses.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of loose pages from an accounting ledger with entries and calculations. The sheets do not appear to come from the Day Book (File 2).
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of receipts and other types of financial correspondence tucked between leaves of the Day Book. The original locations within the Day Book have been noted for each enclosure.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of a ledger notebook used by different family members at different times. In the nineteenth century the book was used to record what appears to be posthumous financial information regarding the estate of William Magrath. In the mid-twentieth century the book was used by Naomi Harris at "Benares" (Clarkson, Ontario) to record lists of stocks and payments to "Huron St. accounts." Harris notes that she is using an old book of grandfather's.
published
Series consists of narrative documents relating to family history, written or collected by Magrath family members and descendents.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of photocopy of a booklet written and published by J. K. Dean, a school teacher at the Credit. The publication was an attempt to discredit the Magrath family by accusing them of dishonesty, misconduct, immorality, slander, perjury, and cowardice. It prompted the Magraths to bring a libel suit against Dean in which the court ruled in the family's favour. Letters in files 1 to 8 of Series 1 of this fonds refer to the proceedings and to Dean as "the Enemy." The contents of this file constitute a copy of the booklet apparently housed at the Toronto Reference Library and may have been collected by a Magrath descendent.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of photocopy of a booklet written and published by J. K. Dean, a school teacher at the Credit. The publication was an attempt to discredit the Magrath family by accusing them of dishonesty, misconduct, immorality, slander, perjury, and cowardice. It prompted the Magraths to bring a libel suit against Dean in which the court ruled in the family's favour. Letters in files 1 to 8 of Series 1 of this fonds refer to the proceedings and to Dean as "the Enemy." The contents of this file constitute a copy of the booklet apparently housed at the Toronto Reference Library and may have been collected by a Magrath descendent.
published
Series consists of maps, land, and architectural plans and specifications relating to the Erindale Estate and environs. The bulk of the series consists of hand-drawn maps and plans of the estate and surrounding lands. Note that house plans and specifications relate to the second Erindale house (the first was destroyed by fire).
One sheet of the architectural plans for the Dwelling House was received under a separate accession (1989.084) from the Ontario Association of Architects.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of detailed written specifications of projected architectural features and expectations for tradesmen for the new Erindale house commissioned by William Magrath from Gundy and Langley Architects of Toronto. Appended is an incomplete agreement regarding "conditions to be entered into."
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of two architectural plans for the new Erindale house rendered by Gundy and Langley Architects of Toronto and commissioned by William Magrath. The plans show facades and floorplans as well as projected uses for rooms.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of hand-drawn plans of land within and around the Erindale estate variously showing locations of buildings, crops, geological features, roads, and land ownership or transfer. These include Plan of the Erindale Estate by S. James (Ontario Land Surveyor); tracing of the latter; Erindale House Barns &c. &c.; and plan of lots for sale bounded by owners Moore, Archibald and Main Street.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
Series consists of typescript transcriptions of early Magrath letters and documents produced by descendents, most likely members of the Sayers family. Occasionally the transcriptionist provides additional annotations relating information about the family. Not every document in the fonds or in series of the fonds has been transcribed.
Note that an earlier archival description of this fonds applied a number to each original document (notated in pencil on the document). The corresponding transcription has been annotated with the same number.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of transcriptions of letters from Files 1 to 3 of Series 1 of this fonds. Transcriptions were produced by Magrath descendants, possibly members of the Sayers family. Letters transcribed in this file are numbered A1.1 a to A1.32 according to a previous numbering system.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of transcriptions of letters from Files 4 to 8 of Series 1 of this fonds. Transcriptions were produced by Magrath descendants, possibly members of the Sayers family. Letters transcribed in this file are numbered A1.33 to A1.83 according to a previous numbering system.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of transcriptions of letters and other documents from Files 9 to 11 of Series 1 of this fonds. Transcriptions were produced by Magrath descendants, possibly members of the Sayers family. Letters transcribed in this file are numbered A2.1 to A4.2 according to a previous numbering system.
James Magrath (1769-1851) was a Church of England clergyman who immigrated to Canada from Ireland with his wife and five children. He built Erindale, the Magrath family estate, near the Credit River in Toronto Township.
Magrath was born in County Roscommon, Ireland. After completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin in 1800, he was ordained and eventually became the rector of the Parish of Shankill. Due to conditions in Ireland which limited opportunities for his children, he left for England in 1826, seeking an appointment to a mission in the North American colonies. He was advised by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel to leave for Canada before being formally appointed.
In May of 1827 at the age of 58, James Magrath, together with his family travelled to York (now Toronto) via Quebec bringing with them seven tons of luggage. His household included his wife Mary, his children Thomas Williams (23), James (21), Charles Eneas (20), William Melchior (14), and Anna Cordelia (9), his nephew Charles Alley, and a female servant.
Once in Upper Canada, Magrath sought to acquire both land and a clerical appointment favouring areas near York. He purchased 700 acres near the Credit River in Toronto Township, having been appointed rector of the newly built St. Peter's Church (the Toronto Mission) thanks to the influence of Colonel Peter Adamson. He was formerly appointed to the mission by Bishop Stewart (of Quebec). As rector Magrath was charged with building up his sparse congregation under the authority of Bishop John Strachan of York. He also reported on the occasional visit to the Credit Indian Village at the Credit (also known as the Credit Mission); however because the village was a Methodist mission he did not attempt to involve himself further in its affairs.
The Magrath family built up a large farming estate with a main house named "Erindale." The family was influential in Toronto Township, arousing both public admiration and ire. The latter half of the Magrath's ministry was constrained by his ill health and marked by his concern for the welfare of Erindale, his children, and their growing families. He died in 1851.
William Magrath took over management of the Erindale estate. He also kept a store for a time. His daughter Mary married Arthur Harris of the Harris family of Benares in Clarkson. James Magrath was variously a proprietor of a general store, Credit postmaster, church warden at St. Peter's, and justice of the peace. Charles Magrath studied and then practised law in Toronto and served on the council of Trinity College. Thomas Magrath, who had once studied law at Trinity College Dublin before emigrating, became best known in Canada as a sportsman, a pursuit on which he wrote and published. Anna Magrath tended to the domestic affairs of Erindale.
In 1867 the original Erindale farmhouse was destroyed by fire. Another more extensive house was built the same year. In 1900 the village of Springfield-on-the-Credit (once called Credit) in Toronto Township (now Mississauga) was named Erindale after the neighbouring Magrath house and estate.
Note that the early fortunes of the Magraths in Canada found a wider audience due to the 1833 publication in Ireland and Britain of some of Thomas' letters (not those in this fonds) in a book entitled Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. This volume, edited by Thomas Radcliff, a Magrath family friend, was a contribution to literature aimed at potential emigrants. The book was republished in 1952 as part of the Pioneer Books series by Macmillan, Canada.
Selected sources
Radcliff, Thomas, ed. Authentic Letters from Upper Canada. Toronto: MacMillan, 1953.
Banks, John. “The Reverend James Magrath: Family Man and Anglican Cleric.” Ontario History 55, No. 3 (1963): 131-142.
published
File consists of transcriptions of documents from Files 1 to 2 of Series 2, and File 1 of Series 4, of this fonds. Transcriptions were produced by Magrath descendents, possibly members of the Sayers family. Letters transcribed in this file are numbered C1.1 to D1.4 according to a previous numbering system.