War Stories: Toronto and the War of 1812-14 — People of York
Mrs. Dummer Powell
Staples, Owen 1866-1849 or Unknown?
1913?
Anne Murray Powell was the wife of one of the leading judges of Upper Canada, William Dummer Powell. The Powells’ position in York society was significant and Mrs. Powell reigned as the social arbiter of York. While her notoriety in York in 1812 was significant, her historical legacy lies in her commentary on the events of the day and in the life of the town. Over seven hundred of her letters have survived, and paint a very personal picture of life in York before, during and after the occupation.
In March 1812, York (present day Toronto) and its surrounding area had a population of 1,456, with 700 inhabitants in the town itself and 756 on the surrounding farms. The town’s people were butchers, blacksmiths, store clerks, carpenters, labourers and soldiers at the garrison. Most inhabitants were immigrants, mainly from Britain and the United States, who tried to maintain their traditions and lifestyle. William Allan, Alexander Wood, Elizabeth Russell, William Dummer Powell, Ann Powell and William Chewett were part of a small group of influential citizens, primarily politicians, lawyers and merchants. It is through their surviving letters and diaries that we understand their circumstances and the apprehensions and difficulties they faced during the war.
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The Honourable W. W. Baldwin
Hamel, Theophile, 1817-1870
1850
William Warren Baldwin, doctor, lawyer and judge, was the head of one of York’s leading and influential families.
![portrait of [Alexander Wood]](/content/ve/war-stories/images/R13_Alexander-Wood-Portrait.jpg)
Portrait of a man c. 1800 purported to be Alexander Wood
Unknown artist
c. 1800
Alexander Wood was a Scottish immigrant who arrived in York in 1797 where he established himself as a merchant of imported goods including wine and spirits. He became an influential member of local society, presiding as a magistrate and socializing with the leading families of the town.