I'd like to put a few historical questions to the researchers of Essex County. I have been researching a Black family who resided in the Amherstburg area in the years between 1810 and 1819. William and Sarah Davenport and William's brother Benjamin eventually settled in Simcoe County about 1825 where they prospered. When their children were baptised in St. James Church in York in 1829, the priest recorded the birth place for at least four of the children as Amherstburg. In 1819, while he was residing in York, William made a claim for a land grant based on his service in the War of 1812 although no record exists of his service.
I am aware that Lt.-Col. Richard Davenport of the Kentucky Volunteers was also in Amherstburg at this time and saw action at the Battle of the Thames so I am presently looking into his history. It is possible he 'lost' a few of his slaves who were part of his retinue and they took his surname as their own.
I am planning a research trip back to Essex County but thought I would first see if the listers would have any ideas. I have contacted the Amherstburg Black Historical Museum and am awaiting a reply. The big questions: are there records of these early settlers in A'Burg and are they accessible? Am I chasing moonbeams with the Kentucky officer theory?
Any thoughts or direction will certainly be appreciated.

Pam