The Promise of Land
Discovering the mysteries of history can be guided by primary sources. A map such as the Wheeler map, presented below, is one such primary source. It reveals aspects of the story of the Black Loyalist migration to New Brunswick from a different perspective.
The Wheeler map was drawn by a surveyor in the 1780s for land located in Westfield. A Black Loyalist by the name of Richard Wheeler petitioned for the land on behalf of himself and a group of Black Loyalist families. Maps were required to represent details of the land requested as part of the petitioning process.
Take a look at the Wheeler map. Use the toolbar at the bottom of the image to zoom in for a closer view. You can also view the full-size version.
Try your best to determine where this land is located in New Brunswick. Use the map analysis worksheet to conduct your investigation.
The List of New Brunswick Places website provides a list of locations in New Brunswick. Use the website to find Westfield then view the area using the site's map tools.
Confirm your findings with a contemporary map of the Westfield region.
Browse the petitions below to uncover more details about Richard Wheeler's story and the land for which he petitioned.
- Memorial of Richard Corankapoon Wheeler and Company, 25 July 1786, Fredericton
- List of Petitioners with Wheeler's Company (part 1)
- List of Petitioners with Wheeler's Company (part 2)
- Survey Plan of the Church Wardens, [n.d.], [n.p.]
- Memorial of the Church Wardens of Westfield Parish, 8 February 1798, Fredericton
- Letter from John Coffin on Behalf of the Church Wardens, 12 March 1799, Dorchester
- Memorial of John Coffin on Behalf of the Church Wardens, 9 January 1799, Fredericton
Build Your Vocabulary
Use Wikipedia to learn the following terms:
Read our policy on linking to Wikipedia articles.