Oh Canada - David Kennedy & Ann Howard

David & Ann (Howard ) Kennedy are my 3rd great-grandparents. David was possibly born in Scotland, ca 1808, and his parents are unknown to me. Ann, the daughter of William & Mary Howard, was born ca 1809 in Canada. Their daughter, Mary Agnes (Kennedy) Powers, was my ancestor.

An excerpt from the probate of David Kennedy's estate (he died intestate):


David Kennedy, Yeoman, Will - Dec'd 3 Nov 1854
Of Harwich Twp., Kent Co. [Ontario, Canada]
Mentions: David John Hughes of St. Thomas, Elgin Co., Canada
James Farley " "
Warren Clouse of Town of Niagara, Lincoln Co.
Widow: Ann Kennedy
Eldest Son: Wilbur Kennedy
Sureties: Asa Howard* of St. Thomas, Elgin Co., & John Wells, of St. Thomas, Elgin Co.
*Is Asa Howard related? It is not known at this time.

Leigh O., who posted this query in March of 2000, furnished me with both David Kennedy's will (a small portion excerpted above) and with the transcript of the accident in which David Kennedy was killed.

Surnames: KENNEDY, HOWARD
I am searching for information on David KENNEDY (b. abt. 1791,U.C.)who lived in Stanbridge in 1831. He was married to Ann HOWARD and some of their children were reported to have been born there.

From the Western Planet
Chatham, Canada West, Wed. Nov. 8, 1854

Melancholy Accident

During the storm which took place on the evening of the 31st, alt. Two men, one named William Early, the other David Kennedy, were killed instantly by the fall of a tree, about half way between Troy Mills and Blenheim Village. What is most remarkable is, that no other tree was within 15 or 20 (?) of the place. They were driving a span of horses attached to a double wagon. The body of the tree struck both of their heads laying open their skulls and (?) completely crushed the hind wheel of the wagon. Next day Dr. (Rolls?) held an inquest over the bodies, verdict of the jury in accordance with the above fact. Clarity forbids any remarks concerning Kennedy. Early has left a wife and large family and very many sympathizing friends.

Ann (Howard) Kennedy was found in the 1881 Canadian census (it is not known when she died) :

1881 Grimsby, Lincoln, Ontario
Ann KENEDY W 72 Ontario Weslyan Methodist
Howard KENEDY 28 Ontario Weslyan Methodist


Did David Kennedy permanently move to Harwich Township in Kent Co. or was he on extended business when he died? If he moved, did Ann and the children move with him, or did they stay in Grimsby?