CO 194/24 [Reel B-215]

Page

Date

From whom (where)

To whom (where)

Contents or nature of the document

Page 1: "Newfoundland, Letters from Governors Crowe, Gledhill, Osborne, Clinton, etc., from 12 Oct. 1706- 6 Dec. 1745"
3-11       Summary of the documents featured in this volume. The date and the subject of the letter is provided with a coding system.
12 12 Sept. 1706 Huxford   Oath sworn in the presence of J. Underdown. Pertains to the severe whipping of Christian, the servant woman of John Jackson, the chaplain, by order of Capt. Moody [See also CO 194/3, 442 in Reel B-206]
12v 12 Sept. 1706 J. Jones, John Knight, Henery Jeffery, soldiers at Fort William   Oath sworn in the presence of J. Underdown. They describe the whipping of the servant woman, and Lt. Moody’s actions. She was ordered to be expelled from the fort.
13 12 Sept. 1706 Susana Marshall (her mark)   Oath sworn in the presence of J. Underdown. She is the wife of John Marshall, inhabitant of St. John’s. Some time about Christmas 1704, she spoke with Christian, the servant maid of John Jackson, Minister of St. John’s. She was sick in bed in the house of Richard Bunker and said that she received her punishment for affronting Margret, the daughter of Mr. Jackson. Christian said it would be her death. Susana saw Christian’s back all blackened [See also CO 194/3, 443 in Reel B-206]
13v-14 12 Sept. 1706 Elisabeth Bunker   Wife of Richard Bunker, inhabitant of St. John’s swears on oath that sometime in Dec., Christian was whipped, fastened to a gun by the order of Lt. Moody. She died 14 days later. At the request of Margret, the eldest daughter of Jackson, Christian was whipped, put on the work horse, water poured on her. Bunker took her in. Campbell, the Prize officer, sent Edward May and his wife with a threat that if they kept this woman, their house would be torn down. She died a few days later [See also CO 194/3, 440-441 in Reel B-206]
15 12 Sept. 1706 Aron Cock, J. Newman, John Collins and Clement Vickerry   All inhabitants of St. John’s declare that some time in March 1706, Lt. Moody ordered Broomfield to have them roll casks of beef, pork, bread, oatmeal flour, and peas out of the garrison to the house of Mr. Collin Campbell. On the casks was the royal mark. [ See also CO 194/3, 453]
15v 12 Sept. 1706 Sampson Job   In Feb. 1705, Moody stole his food and bedding and stored it in the garrison’s store. Sworn in the presence of J. Underdown.
16 12 Sept. 1706 Thomas Gruchy   In Feb. 1705, Moody took the following from his house by violence. The affidavit is supported by two signatures, Henry Williams and Charles Stephens. But Gruchy’s signature appears to be missing. Sworn in the presence of J. Underdown.
16v 12 Sept. 1706 J.Violet, Archibald Taylor, Henry Jefferys and John Barnes, soldiers   Swear that Moody gave orders to plunder the houses of the inhabitants of St. John’s after the French siege was over. Sworn in the presence of J. Underdown.
17 12 Sept. 1706 Sgt. Jones   Swears that he was under the command of Capt. Latham at the South Castle, and some time after the French were gone, Broomfield showed him pots and irons, flour etc. which he boasted to have taken from the inhabitants and said that they at the South side had done nothing. Sworn in the presence of J. Underdown. [See also CO194/3, 446]
17v-18v 12 Sept. 1706 John Bradbury   Swears that he tried to "cannonade" the house where Subercase stayed but was stopped by Moody. More details of the events that took place in the garrison during the French siege. Sworn in the presence of J. Underdown. [See also CO194/3, 444]
20-20v   The traders and inhabitants of St. John’s and surrounding areas   Signed petition against Lt. Moody and his tyranny sent to the Secretary of State
21   Commanders of Merchants ships   Signed petition against Lt. Moody.
23-27v 31 Oct. 1711 Josias Crowe, Commander of the convoy (St. John’s) Secretary of State State of the Fishery at Newfoundland. Prepared in response to a letter sent the 11 April 1711. Concerns the number of inhabitants, the encroachments on the beaches, stages, and fish rooms, Admirals have to keep journals in order to follow the rules and regulations, the French fish and hunt to the Northward and the Southward and a few Spaniards who come with passes to buy fish, great care is taken to cure and salt the fish, rum and brandy is not brought by New England ships anymore, some wine and oil is brought from Lisbon, Liverna [Leghorn], fishing methods are described (nets, lines, hooks), no more than two French inhabitants are at Placentia but they have companies of soldiers who retire with the fishing ships when they have finished their season, details on the fortifications. "Scheme of the Fishery of Newfoundland" is provided at p. 27v
28-29 1711 Josias Crowe (St. John’s) Secretary of State "A record of several laws and orders made at St. John’s for the better discipline and good order of the people and correcting the irregularities by them committed contrary to the good laws and Acts of Parliament. All of which I debated at several courts held wherein was present the commanders of merchant ships, merchants and chief inhabitants and witnesses being examined it was brought to the conclusion between the 23 Aug. and the 23 Oct. 1711." Money for the church, public houses, seamen to guard the harbour at night, lists the owners of storehouses and stages, policy of protection during the Winter. Note: A lot of information.
29v 28 Aug. 1711 Josias Crowe   Proclamation forbidding the entertaining of seamen on Sabbath day, except for strangers come from other harbours.
30-31 31 Oct. 1711 Josias Crowe   Concludes that he has done what was required of him and adds that cutting trees and the supply of provisions by New England ships cannot be avoided. Mentions Mr. John Collins, the deputed governor in absence. Explains that he has organised groups of inhabitants to keep watch against enemy attacks. Needs 200 disciplined troops (150 for St. John’s and 50 for Ferryland.)
31v 1711 Josias Crowe   "An account of the bodies of inhabitants" Bonavista and adjacent places: 290, Dildoe Island and adjacent places: 205, Fox Island and adjacent places: 185.... [continues]
32 1711 Josias Crowe   More rules and regulations relating to the stages, the minister, rooms, and plantations.
33 16 April 1708 Sunderland   Certificate attesting to Mr. Michel de Monsegur’s good behaviour during his stay in England and that the government is entirely satisfied with his good services. Note: Document in French.
35-36v 22 Nov. 1710 De Monsegur (London)   De Monsegur requests the Lords to review the plans he is proposing to take Placentia. He was at Placentia in 1694 and 1696, and he knows the strengths and weaknesses of the place. He discusses salary and his devotion to His Majesty. Note: Document in French.
37 5 Nov. 1711 John Collins (St. John’s) Board of Ordnance (London) "Exchange £132:16:0" Pay to Mr. "Leamirell Lidards" ["L’amiral Lidards?] the sum of 132:16 for sundry disbursements for the use of H.M. garrison in St. John’s.
39-40 18 June 1711 John Collins (Fort William St. John’s)   Two letters dated 18 June 1711 and the other Nov. 5 1711, on the same page. In the first part, the commander requests to be allowed to continue his command of the garrison and mentions the expenses he incurred. And in the second, he confirms that he is still appointed commander and to reimburse him for his expenses. On p.40, he provides an account of his expenses.
41-42 21 Jan. 1711 Joseph Taylor, Commander of the Lichtfield (St. John’s), John Collins, the inhabitants of Newfoundland who are Masters of families, Principal merchants and Masters of ships in London and trading in Nfld.   Printed proclamation bearing 4 separate declarations. The first is the appointment of John Collins as Governor of Newfoundland. The second relates the great hardships Collins went through when defending Fort Williams, being taken prisoner, how Lloyd was captured and killed in France, and the ransom he had to pay to be freed. He begs to be allowed to continue to be the governor, to be paid the Governor’s salary and not be removed without just reason. The third declaration is an address by the inhabitants who thank John Collins for organizing a militia and guarding and repairing the fort. They recommend him as Governor. And the fourth, an address by the merchants and masters of ships also recommending him to Her Majesty. This was sent to the Board of Ordnance
43-44v   The inhabitants in Newfoundland   This appears to be the handwritten original copy of the address which is in the above printed document. It is signed by (a few names taken at random): Thomas Roberts, John Jenkins, James Harris, Skinner, Squary, George Marrwood, John Marshall, Richard Williams, and many more.
44   The merchants and masters of ships trading at Newfoundland   This appears to be the handwritten original copy of the address of merchants which is in the above printed document (p. 41). It is signed by various people, including Solomon Merritt, Patrick Whellen, Joseph Taylor, Henry Vanderstegen, Thomas Perkins, Nathaniel Torriano and many more.
45 29 Jan. 1712 Leeds Lords Secretary of State, the Earl of Dartmouth Cover letter relating to Governor Collins in Newfoundland. He introduces the letter from Collins’ brother, Edward Collins who is a clergyman and speaks on behalf of his brother. Based on the good representation that the inhabitants and traders have given of Collins, Leeds asks the Earl to consider the requests Governor Collins makes and to refer his case to the Queen.
47-47v 20 Feb. 1712 Edward Collins Earl of Dartmouth [enclosed with above] He begs that his brother’s request be granted based on his brother’s courage and honesty. His brother has spent three Winters there and he asks for his brother not to be removed and replaced by Mr. Gully
49-49v 29 Oct. 1712 Sir Nicholas Trevanion (St. John’s, York)   He took 5 prizes and their men were sent to Placentia. He has been in good terms with Gouverneur Costebelle. Should Placentia be delivered up, he asks that he might be appointed to settle the affairs there.
51-52v 3 Nov. 1712 Pastour de Costebelle (Plaisance/Placentia) Trevanion In regards to the merchant ships taken as prizes, he begs that the ships should be repaired which he knows Trevanion will do because he has proven an honourable man. He wants to make sure that the commander knows that upon the departure of their merchant ships to France, no instructions for war will have been sent. The "petit corsaire" that was taken by the British on the 1 Oct. had been sent on orders 15 to 18 days before the "cessation d’armes" between France and England. He was informed that French "flibustiers" have committed violent acts contrary to his orders, should Trevanion provide him with names, he will give them the punishment they merit. He requests that Jacques Tastel and [ _ ] Darambour, both of whom were on board the "petit corsaire", be sent to him: they owe money. The French Governor sends 4 dozen bottles of wine to thank Trevanion.
53   Inhabitants & merchants of Newfoundland (including Jacob Rice [minister]), John Jenkins, Charles Wayne, John Elliott) Earl of Dartmouth Petition by approximately 100 people asking that Sir Nicholas Trevanion be allowed to remain governor in Newfoundland. He has protected them from enemy incursions and has established tranquillity through much prudence, justice, and equanimity.
54-54v   John Collins The Queen Asks to be given a Governor’s pay, to be allowed to stay in that position and not to be removed without just reason. He was appointed governor in 1709 by Capt. Taylor and has been doing a good job. Note: There is a signature on the previous document (p.53) which appears to be that of John Collins.
56-59 3 July 1720 Lt. Governor Gledhill (Placentia)   Gledhill has received orders to reduce the garrison and send them to Nova Scotia. He objects and gives several reasons here. (Example: Placentia is outside General Phillips’ jurisdiction; need for protection against Indians, pirates; value of the fishery here); in fact Gledhill would like more authority and soldiers for himself. Gledhill provides fairly detailed descriptions of piracy and pirate activity that year.
60 23 Sept. 1727 Gledhill (Fort Fredrick at Placentia) Thomas Duke of Newcastle (Principal Secretary of State at Whitehall) Gives his condolence for the death of the Sovereign and congratulates the new king on his succession to the throne.
62-65 14 Oct. 1729 Governor Henry Osborn (St. John’s) My Lord This is a summary of how Osborn appointed magistrates, divided the island into districts, the prison, etc.
66-67 7 Nov. 1729 Henry Osborn (Squirrel on route for Lisbon) My Lord Gives an account of his progress, brings up Lt. Col. Gledhill, sends an inventory of arms and stores remaining in the magazine of the fort at Placentia, had to leave the building of the prison for next Spring.
68 23 Aug. 1729 Henry Osborn Mr William Keen, Mr. William Weston, Mr. Alyn Southmayd (justices of the peace in St. John’s) [enclosed with above] Orders them to build a prison and make an estimate of the charges.
68v 25 Aug. 1729 William Keen, William Weston, Alyn Southmayd Henry Osborn [enclosed with above] Estimate of the charges: 150 pounds sterling which a tax on merchants paid in quintals of fish could cover.
69 29 Aug. 1729 William Keen, William Weston, Alyn Southmayd (justices of the peace in St. John’s) Henry Osborn [enclosed with above] Orders the Justices to give timely notices to the merchants and if they should refuse the Justices are ordered to "proceed against them".
69v 5 Oct. 1729 Henry Osborn (St. John’s) all the inhabitants [enclosed with above] Proclamation giving notice of the plans to build a prison, orders them to give a payment in fish for that purpose. They are to comply.
70-71 6 Sept. 1729 Henry Osborn (St. John’s) Sam Gledhill [enclosed with above] Instructions given to the commander of the garrison Gledhill or the person commanding in his place (not to interfere with the fishery, beaches or cook rooms; not to encourage the manufacture or growth of any commodities; stop the carrying away of seamen, fishermen or handymen; help the justices of the peace.)
72-73v 9 Sept. 1729 Osborn   [enclosed with above] An account of ordnance and stores at Placentia in Fort Frederick. Charles Howe storekeeper. Some of the items include: carriages, trucks for carriages, powder, cases of wood, tampions, priming irons, hand brushes, ginns, hand screws, union flag, canvas, flag, hand saws, kitt brushes, muskets (18), iron spades, boat hook, brooms, paint, paint brushes, putty, nails (exact numbers given), planes, chisels.
74-74v 11 Oct. 1729 Osborn Weston, Dench, Degrave [enclosed with above] The justices are empowered to collect a rate towards the building a prison, throughout the whole district of St. John’s (Torbay, Quiddy Viddy, Petty Harbour, Bay of Bulls).
75   Osborn   [enclosed with above] Memorandum. Dimensions and construction details of the prison.
76-76v 9 Sept. 1730 Osborn (Placentia) Lord He assembled all His Majesties’ subjects and read a proclamation to them regarding the cessation of hostilities with Spain and restitution of prizes.
78-80v 25 Sept. 1730 Osborn (St. John’s) Lord The masters of ships and the fishing admirals have ridiculed the justices of the peace in the eyes of the "lower sort of people". Conflict of power between justices, fishing admirals and the masters of ships. In general, the people have complied with the rate that was imposed for building a prison. Project of a prison to be built at Ferryland.
82-82v 25 Sept. 1730 Osborn   [enclosed with above] Meeting held 14 Sept. 1730 with merchants of ships. It concerns the building of a prison in Ferryland. All Masters of ships, Masters of families should provide one shilling and six-pence for every servant they employ in the district (from Trepassey South to Brecast or Toad Cove North) to build a prison.
84-85 25 Sept. 1730 Osborn   [enclosed with above] "The division of the island of Newfoundland into convenient districts with the limits of the same and the places wherein the several magistrates reside." Bonavista, Trinity, St. John’s, Ferryland, Placentia.
86-86v 25 Sept. 1730 Osborn   [enclosed with above] "Establishment and State of the garrison at Placentia" Here listed: the names of the soldiers present and the defects of Fort Frederick. (Lt. Governor Col. Gledhill is absent) Some of the names are: Edward Hopley, Peter Stewart, J. Green, J. Bright, Hollingworth (confined to bed by age and infirmity) and Owen Edwards.
88-88v 25 Sept. 1730 Keen, Weston, Southmayd (Justices of the peace) Osborn [enclosed with above] Petition relating to the admirals and the masters of ship obstructing their efforts.
90 25 Sept. 1730 Signac, Salmon, Buchanan (merchants at Placentia) Osborn [enclosed with above] They were appointed justices of the peace and met with obstruction from fishing admirals, who have seized and imprisoned at their pleasure as well as erecting public houses without obtaining licenses from the justices of the peace.
92-93v 25 July 1731 Henry Osborn (Squirrel St. John’s)   Because of the great disrespect and the attitude that the fishing admirals and masters of ships hold where they should oppose any "form of government whatever here, that is not established by Parliament", Osborn is resigning and has provided Captain Clinton with all information. Osborn’s resignation.
94 12 June 1731 Henry Osborn   Proclamation regarding the justices of the peace and the peace in the island.
96-97 10 June 1731 Weston and Southmayd (St. John’s) Your Excellency Petition. They have tried to execute the powers granted in them but the fishing admirals have slighted their authority. They ask that their authority be clearly explained.
98 29 July 1731 Clinton (Salisbury at St. John’s )   Clinton shall try his best to settle the affairs at Placentia.
100 30 Sept. 1731 Gledhill (Placentia) Duke of Newcastle Informs of his arrival with the major and recruits to complete the company of 30 men. Claims that Placentia is the most considerable fishing port in America and is therefore worthy of protection. More troops are wanting. He annexes a State of the fishery.
101 1731 Gledhill   [enclosed with above] Account of the Fishery at Placentia for the year 1731. Gives the number of British ships and also American ships. Quintals of fish, inhabitants, number of families (who keep private houses and who keep public houses); Number of inhabitants who remained in the country in the Winter, Estimate of Land Improved (6 boats rooms).
102 10 Sept. 1731 James Chapple (Admiral), Charles Chapple (Vice Admiral), Williams Brooks (Rear Admiral), William Chapple, John Brooks Governor Gledhill "The fishing admirals letter of complaints to governor Gledhill" They describe the injuries they have suffered during Gledhill’s absence. Their houses and cookrooms, wharfs and stages were destroyed and the justices were gone to England and one was sick.
104 5 Oct. 1731 Gledhill (Fort Frederick at Placentia) The Duke of Newcastle (Secretary of State) A fire destroyed the best of the houses in Placentia, bread and provisions. Had it not been for the vigilance of the garrison (36 men) in blowing up the houses and extinguishing the fire, the garrison would have been up in flames.
106 30 July 1732 Edward Falkingham (Salisbury at St. John’s) The Duke of Newcastle Informs the Duke of his arrival and that he has not interfered with the fishery. The state of the fishery looks promising, he will be sending the account later.
108-109 22 July 1732 Edward Falkingham   [enclosed with above] State of the garrison at Placentia. Samuel Gledhill is present. On the muster roll, there is mention of a chaplain, surgeon, judge advocate, commissary, a carpenter, mason, and smith. The provisions in store: bread, flour, peas, beef, pork, butter.
110-111 April 13 1732 Falkingham   [enclosed with above] Account of the provisions that were transported in the Aylee (Martin Wadham, commander) to be delivered to Edward Hopley, Ordnance and storekeeper. For supply of the stores: Corn Powder: cannon, fine; Sheets of paper for cartridges: 18 pounders and 9 pounders; Match; Port fires; Cartridge paper; writing; Frame for a new store house/materials needed for the construction/building a new store house: Oak sill, raising fir, posts, beams, collar beam, braces (and a lot more detail) Half clothing for the detachment of the Royal Regiment of Artillery at Placentia by Order of the Board. Witnessed by William Blockhouse and Thomas Boebuck [Roebuck?] and signed by Martin Wadham.
112-115 31 Aug. 1731 Falkingham   [enclosed with above] The state of the ordnance stores at Placentia. A very detailed account of what was taken and when.
116-116v 4 Oct. 1732 Edward Falkingham (Salisbury St.John’s) Duke of Newcastle Provides a series of reasons why offenders are not jailed. He ordered a prison to be built for the Ferryland district, one at Trinity, and a third at Bonavista with three round houses, one at Trepassey, one at Bay Bulls, and one in Conception Bay. I am sending an offender for murder aboard the Dursley Gally to be prosecuted in London.
117-122 4 Oct. 1732 Edward Falkingham Newcastle [enclosed with above] Answers to articles regarding law and government in Newfoundland. (Murderer sent to England, improved draughts, inhabitants frequent church except for Irish servants who are not permitted to practice their religion, matters of the fishery, out migration issues, the civil magistrates are successful in their districts but the fishing admirals in their ports care only for their private interests, New England issues, cutting trees issues, no convictions of illegal trade, the inhabitants are guilty of providing servants with clothing and alcohol more than their wages which keeps them from becoming seamen, no accounts on the French fishery, no French inhabitants at Placentia or at St. Peter’s [St. Pierre], salmon fishery, etc.
122-123 4 Oct. 1732 Edward Falkingham Newcastle [enclosed with above] This is on the same previous document. Legal proceedings. The Governor heard the case of Peter Shank (Poole) vs. Will Keen (St. John’s) who is a justice of the peace. A representation by John Moores and Joseph Vallis to Mr.Tim Spurrier (Mayor of Poole) against Mr. Francis Squibb and Jacob Taverner (2 justices in Trinity) and more complaints against the justices.
125-130 4 Oct. 1732 Edward Falkingham Newcastle [enclosed with above] "The Newfoundland Scheme of the Fishery for the year 1732" Number of ships, boats, by boat men, quintals of fish, inhabitants (masters, men servants, mistresses , children) by district. The State of the inhabitants: English, Irish, etc.
131-133 1 Aug. 1732 Edward Falkingham   [enclosed with above] Oaths and affidavits sworn in the presence of the Governor in relation to Mr Keen’s case.
134-135 6 Nov. 1738 Capt Vanbrugh (Chatham in Lisbon River)   Governor of Newfoundland. Answers to the Heads in relation to the State of the fishery and the State of the Garrison of Placentia. The fort is defenceless, the men are clothed and armed. The fishery is going well, the major complaint is against the Irish Roman Catholic who are annually imported. In case of a war, this could be of consequence. He is sending to England two pirates who stole a sloop from Bonavista, one of the Cape de Verds, they have sunk the sloop.
136-138 1 July 1738 William Sanderson (Storekeeper)and James Wilbault (Engineer)   [enclosed with above] General remain of ordnance stores" (bayonets, nails, powder, shovels, quadrant, speaking trumpet, carpenter’s tools, smith tools, masons tools. And more...)
139v-140   P. Vanbrugh   [enclosed with above] Survey of the inhabitants and state of the fishery for 1738.
141-143v 6 Nov. 1738 P. Vanbrugh (Chatham in Lisbon River)   [enclosed with above] Answers to the Heads of enquiry. Unable to take draughts, fishery is well, no ballast has been thrown overboard but Bonavista is in bad shape, stages are not destroyed, the French have fishing ships of 300 tons in the North part but all go home, Cattle brought from New England, 14 public houses (licensed) are kept in St. John’s and more...
145 11 July 1739 Captain H. Medley (Romney Spithead) Duke of Newcastle Accepts his responsibilities as governor of Newfoundland.
147-150 30 March 1740 H. Medley (Romney Spithead)   Sends the State of the fishery (Scheme) for 1739. Number of British ships, sack ships, ships from America, "burthen of", Number of men, Number of boats, quintals of fish (British fishing ships, ships from America, by boats, inhabitants) etc.

Pages 153-164 are accounts of the stores issued and expended, fired for salutes, answers, alarms, and celebrations. For July 1738 to July 1739. The salutes are dated and the amount and types of shot used is provided. The totals expended for each month is also provided.
153 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] Accounts of the stores issued and expended for the month of July. (Fired for the church, to answer a salute, to bring two boats to order, round shot 18 pounder, to a signal for church. Total of powder expended, round shot, etc.)
154 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] Accounts of the stores issued and expended for the month of Aug.. (To a signal for the church, to salute the governor, to a salute to the warship, etc.) Total of guns and powder used, etc.
155 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] Accounts of the stores issued and expended for the month of Sept.. (To answer a salute, to salute C. Thomas, to a signal for the church, etc.)
156 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] accounts of the stores issued and expended for the month of Oct.. ( For experiment of an order, to answer a salute from C. Baker, for the King’s Coronation...etc) Totals provided.
157 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] Accounts of the stores issued and expended for the month of Nov. and Dec.. (To a signal for the church, to firing gunpowder treason, to Capt. Gledhill’s company for duty,etc.) Totals.
158 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] Accounts for the stores issued and expended for the month of Jan.. (To a signal for church, to sealing the guns, to his highness the Prince of Wales birth, etc.)Totals.
159 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] Accounts for the stores issued and expended for the month of Feb.. (To signal for church, etc.) Totals
160 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] Accounts for the month of March. (To signal church, to Capt. Phillips (omitted), to signal for alarm, to answer a salute C. Waters. Etc.)
161 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] Accounts for the month of April. (To answer a salute to Capt. Samms, Capt. Chappell, to answer Capt. Prance, to answer Capt. Browning, Capt.Vernum, Capt. Yes [Yeo?], Capt. Shapton,etc.)
162 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] Accounts for the month of May. (To make the Content sloop show colours, to the Mayflower, to answer a salute from Capt. Olive, Capt. Baker, for the restoration of King Charles II (29May1739),etc.)
163 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] Accounts for the month of June. (Answer Capt. Pallard, Capt. Thomas, for his majesty’s accession to the throne (11 June 1739), etc.)
164 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] Accounts for the month of July. (signal for church, to answer Capt. Vernum, etc.)
167 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] "A reply to the several articles (Heads of inquiry) of Governor’s instructions for Newfoundland for the year 1739." Issues related to the fishery, the stages, the agriculture practices, the cutting of trees, claims for rooms, fish flakes, public houses, the servants drink into debt by their own choice, drunkenness, taking bond for all men that are carried to New England, curing fish, no French here capable of carrying on trade, the fault of fish buyers to take green fish not properly culled a practice which proves armful to the fishery.
175-181 30 March 1740 Medley   [enclosed with above] "A general remain of ordnance storesunder the care and charge of William Sanderson, storekeeper tot he office of His Majesty Ordnance at Placentia." Alphabetically organised. Tools, bedding, kitchen tools, laboratory stores (beeswax, brushes, calipers, canvas, chest, fuzes, brushes, portfires, paper for cartridges and for writing, rasps, twine, etc.) Capenter tools (very extensive list), smith tools, mason tools, etc.
184 10 June 1740 H. Medley (Romney Spithead) Duke of Newcastle Acknowledges receipt of a letter relating to H.M. Royal Proclamation and an Act of Parliament.
186 26 July 1740 Coke   Sent the proclamation of war with Spain to all parts of the island.
187v-189       "A plan of Fort William, George’s Battery and Saint John’s Harbour, Newfoundland."
190-193 24 Dec. 1740 H. Medley (Romney Spithead) Duke of Newcastle State and condition of Newfoundland and the State of fishery for 1740.
194-196v   Medley   [enclosed with above] Reply to the several Heads of inquiry. The practice of hiring Irish catholic servants which keeps them in the island in the Winter, after the fishing season is over many retire into the woods and remain there the Winter sawing boards, no furring trade carried out by inhabitants, no traffic with the "Indians", etc...)
199v-200v       Blank and printed forms probably relating to tickets for clothes and bedding .
202-205 20 Sept. 1741 Thomas Smith (St. John’s)   Arrived with the Romney and Spy. Read the proclamation making him Governor to the inhabitants. Wants to fortify the fort in St. John’s because it might be vulnerable to privateers. Asks that he may receive his wages without difficulty. Smith will send the State of the fishery and the answers to the Heads later.
206 18 June 1742 Thomas Smith (London)   The Nottingham was taken by the Spaniards. Note: Claims that a copy of the state of the fishery and copies of letters are here provided, but in fact they are not included here or in the next pages.
208 9 Aug. 1742 Capt. Byng (Placentia) Secretary of State [enclosed with above] "A return of Capt. Joseph Gledhill’s company in the Honourable Major General Phillips Regiment of Foot."
210 7 Jan. 1743 Thomas Smith (Princess Mary Lisbon River)   Sending the "fishing scheme" and the answers to the queries (heads of inquiry). Note: Not here .
212 9 Aug. 1742 Capt. Byng (Governor)   "Fort Frederick 9 Aug. 1742 A return of the detachment of the royal regiment of artillery"
213 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng (London)   Sends an account of the arms, ammunition, and stores sent from London to Placentia. Could not obtain maps or draughts of Newfoundland, or of any bays, harbours, islands, banks, rocks, fishing places, and coasts. It was impossible to procure a particular of the trade of Newfoundland without appointing a Naval officer to receive the imports and exports. Many ships sail before and after his arrival and departure. He appoints Mr. William Keen jr, Naval Officer. (And more on this.) Appointment of justices of the peace, salmon fishery, the whole island is a monopoly, particularly at St. John’s where 3 or 4 of the principal trading men go on board of all ships coming in and "engross" the whole cargos to themselves. Exorbitant rates charged b these men. Byng tries to prevent this. Note: p.213-259 are documents sent within the same package.
216 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Account of ordnance stores issued and expended at Placentia between the 1-31 of Aug. 1741. ( Salute the Spy)
217 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Account of ordnance stores issued and expended at Placentia 1-30 Sept. 1741. (To bring a ship to, etc.)
218 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Account of ordnance stores issued and expended at Placentia 1-31Oct. 1741. (To exercise for Capt. Gledhill’s Company., to His Majesty Coronation (11 Oct. 1741), to salute the Bowden. To His Majesty’s birthday (30 Oct. 1741.)
219 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Account of ordnance stores issued and expended at Placentia 1-30 Nov. 1741. (To observe anniversary of Gunpowder Plot, for Princess of Wales birthday (19 Nov. 1741), by order of the commanding officers, to a signal for a ship at sea, etc.)
220 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Account of ordnance stores issued and expended at Placentia 1-31 Dec..
221 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Account of ordnance stores issued and expended at Placentia 1-31 Jan. 1742. (To burying Smithers the gunner, to the Prince of Wales birthday (20 Jan.1742)
222 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Account of ordnance stores issued and expended at Placentia 1-28 Feb. 1742.
223 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Account of ordnance stores issued and expended at Placentia 1-31March 1742.
224 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Account of ordnance stores issued and expended at Placentia 1-31April 1742. (Salute Capt. James, Capt. Brooks, Capt. Vernam, Capt. Hogg.)
225 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Account of ordnance stores issued and expended at Placentia 1-31 May 1742. (Salute Capt. Froth, storeship, Capt. Gilly, to King Charle’s Restoration (29 may 1742).
226 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Account of ordnance stores issued and expended at Placentia 1-30 June 1742. (Signal for church, to His majesty’s accession to the Crown (11 June 1742).
227 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Account of ordnance stores issued and expended at Placentia 1-31 July 1742. (Signal for church, Capt. Bull, Capt. Browning)
230-235v 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng   [enclosed with above] Inventory of ordnance stores "under the care and charge of William Sanderson, ordnance storekeeper at Placentia." Alphabetically organised. Tools, ammunition, bedding, muskets, etc.
238-250 22 Feb. 1743 Capt.Byng   [enclosed with above] Answers to the heads of enquiry. (No murders or felonies committed, "you are to permit a liberty of conscience to all persons (except papists) so they can be contended with a quiet and peaceable enjoyment of the same, not giving offence or scandal to the government" p.238v, "...aliens or strangers, not residing in the kingdom of Great Britain or Ireland, do resort to Newfoundland, or to the islands adjacent ..., and take bait..." p.241v, rooms, flakes p.244, shares of the voyage p.245, taverns and public houses p.245v-246, passage fees p246, Henry Osborne governor p.248v, Commander Lee p.249v, fish buyers and fish not properly cured p.250) Note: The documents are first recorded from p.238 to p.248 where they end abruptly at Article 64. However, the complete set of documents is reproduced further in its entirety from p.238 to p.250.
251v-256 22 Feb. 1743 Capt. Byng Secretary of state office. [enclosed with above] State of the fishery and scheme of the ships and their cargos exported from the harbour of St. John’s Newfoundland from the 23 April to 30 Oct. 1742. Note: A lot of information.
257-257v   Fishermen belonging to St.John’s harbour and Petty harbour. John Byng, Governor [enclosed with above] Petition. Capt. Ballard broke the price of fish contrary to ancient custom used in Newfoundland. Merchants charge exorbitant rates for their goods, buying cargoes here at cheap rates and charging "three fourths above the prime cost." Note; no dates are provided but the date of the package of letters (22 Feb. 1743) sent by Byng where he has included all papers relating to Newfoundland.
259 23 Sept. 1745 James Wibault (St. John’s)   Encloses an affidavit made by the captains of H.M. ships the Lark and Hector. He hopes the garrison at St. John’s will be strengthened in ca se of an attack. Note: affidavits are missing.
261 25 Sept. 1743 Governor Thomas Smith (Princess Mary in St. John’s)   Capt. Forrest of the Hawk Sloop delivered orders to place the island in a state of defence. Has brought Mr. Wibault of Placentia to repair the old fort at St. John’s. The Bridgewater was lost on the 18 Sept. near Cape Pine. He will draw bills for the treasurer to pay for the repairs and construction.
263-266v 16 Nov. 1743 Thomas Smith (St. John’s)   Fortification of Fort William at St. John’s. Mr Masters and Ballard will provide provisions for the men to spend the Winter to repair and rebuild parts of the fort. John Benger, Justice of the peace will command the militia at Ferryland. Capt. Gledhill is also carrying repairs at the old fort at Placentia but for want of money had to stop. He is instructed to draw a bill for 500 pounds. He asks that 800 soldiers be appointed to the service of the island (which is the number of the French at Cape "Briton".) Asks for 60 gunners. Fox Island in Trinity Bay and Carbonear Island in Conception Bay should also be provided for. Requests repeal of the act allowing Irish servants (Roman Catholics) to be imported here because they outnumber English inhabitants right now.
267-267v 10 Oct. 1743 William Wigmore (Store keeper at Fort William at St. John’s)   Receipt for the ammunition and arms delivered by Rich Morgan, gunner of H.M. Princess Mary. Round shot, muskets and bayonets, flint, match, powder, wads, cartouch boxes with belts, etc...
269-270 26 Sept. 1743 James Wibault (St. John’s   A description of the works needed for the repairing of the fort and other construction to be done.
271-274 8 Nov. 1743 Thomas Smith James Wibault List of instructions and orders directing Wibault as Chief Engineer to repair the fort and the battery. Orders him to build flanks. Gives him permission to cut all the wood needed. Gives instructions regarding the soldiers and provisions. Military instructions.
278   Thomas Smith   "An Account of the Expense and Remains of £6200, Drawn for on The Right Honourable lords of the treasury for putting that island in a posture of defence."
279-280 8 Oct. 1743 Thomas Smith Mr. John Benger (Justices of the Peace at Ferryland) Instructions regarding the request for assistance to "make a security on Buoy Island" for the protection of Renewse, Fermeuse, and several neighbouring small fisheries. Erect batteries. Have receipts for the expenses. Make muster rolls of 20 English Protestants, etc.
280v 8 Oct. 1743 J. Benger Thomas Smith Received a set of bills of exchange from Thomas Smith for £500.
281 15 Nov. 1743 Thomas Smith Capt. Gledhill Gledhill is empowered to draw bills of exchange for 500 pounds provided that he draws all vouchers for it. For the purpose of fixing the old fort, as the new fort (at Placentia)will not be finished soon.
283-289v 8 Oct. 1743 [this is a guess] Thomas Smith   Answers to the "heads of enquiry" for 1743. This document shows the questions and the answers together. (67 Articles).
291v-292 8 Oct. 1743 [this is a guess] Thomas Smith   The State of the fishery for the year 1743.
293-293v 7 Oct. 1744 J. Gledhill (Placentia) Lord The fort’s weaknesses. He has enclosed a copy of Mr Fournier’s letter (Assistant Engineer to Mr. Wibault, the Engineer who went round to St. John’s last Fall). The garrison consists of 31 private men most of them not fit for service. The servants are Irish Papists and "we are daily afraid that the French will make a strong attempt." He has learned that at Louisbourg there are 5 warships ready to sail with an Indian force to take Placentia, which is the key to the whole island. He also sends a petition form the traders. The Navy has been neglecting this place.
295-295v 7 Oct. 1744 Adam Gabriel Fournier (Placentia)   [enclosed with above] The engineer describes the condition of the old fort in Placentia and offers suggestions for fixing it.
298 2 Aug. 1744 Traders and inhabitants of little and great Placentia and the boatkeepers in adjacent harbours Gledhill [enclosed with above] "To the governor and commander in chief of His Majesties Island of Newfoundland." They are asking for better protection and in a P.S. write: "The privateers cruising on the Western Coast off Cape St. Mary’s we take to be at present the only security to our fishery." Signed by approx. 40 names ( Roach, Travers, Mercer, Rowland, Clark, Barnes, Green, Browning, Davis, Williams, Pardey, etc.)
299-299v 17 Nov. 1744 Capt. Lediere (Fort William at St. John’s)   He was placed in charge of the place to supervise the garrison. For want of provisions and war against France declared.
301 12 May 1745 Lediere (Fort William)   Report on the taking of Cape Breton by 4,000 British troops.
303 23 Sept. 1745 James Wibault, Lt. Governor (St. John’s)   He is sending an affidavit sworn before him in regards to strengthening the fort here.
305-306v 20 Sept. 1745 James Wibault   [enclosed with above] The French are at "Lecroc" or "Larouse" [Croque?]. Questions of strategy and how to go about acquiring intelligence (whether to send the Lark and the Hector and more ) are discussed in this document. What is the best way to protect the trade. Signed by James Wibault, John Wickham, Frederick Cornwall, William Keen.
307 23 Sept. 1745 James Wibault (Garrison at St. John’s)   [enclosed with above] State of the Garrison (only ranks and numbers are provided). Number of officers, artillery, detachment, 60 private men, one captain. Detachment of Col. Cochrane and Col. Duncomb’s regiment of marines left by Thomas Smith in 1743.
309 20 Sept. Mc Mallin (St. John’s)   Deposition sworn in the presence of James Wibault, John Wickham, and Frederick Cornwall and Keen. McMallin was a carpenter on-board the Allen pink , commanded by Nich. Cummings (London). It was taken by 6 French warships (St. Michael) 50 leagues eastward of Newfoundland. With John Ward and James Johnson, they made their escape and travelled to "Carouse".
310-310v 6 Dec. 1745 Corbyn Morris   His appointment as Secretary for Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Cape Breton. Requests that it be put on a license for him.

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