Hi,

I am seeking information regarding John Askin who married Mary McDermott on 16 Sept 1833 in Toronto by the Rev. James Harris. Witnesses included Mary Askin & James McDermaid (McDermott).

John & Mary had a daughter Mary Jane who was born 16 Aug 1834 in Toronto. Mary Jane later married Robert Harron abt 1855 and lived in Bruce County. I don't have any concrete information regarding John Askin other than he was born in Ireland. His wife Mary McDermott was born about 1800 in Ireland.

I did find a John Askin in the 1837 & 1843 Toronto Directory listed as a carter on Newgate Street but I'm not sure if this is him. He is not listed in the 1850-51 Toronto Directory but a Mrs. Mary Askin on Adelaide street was found. There was also a John Askin that was found in the Potters Field Cemetery listing who died on 21 March 1847 in Toronto. Are they the same man?

Any information on this family or where I could find further information would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Tammy

The 1842 Census of Upper Canada, which includes a head of household for Toronto is now online at familysearch.org

John Askin, freeholder (owns his property) is listed in St Andrews ward, on Newgate St The household had 2 persons born in Ireland, 2 born in Canada, a boy and a girl age between 5 and 14. The immigrant has been 14 years in Canada and all 4 are Presbyterian. You might want to check the records of Knox Church, which have been transcribed by OGS Toronto.

1842 census with John Askin is at
https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.3.1/TH-1-11352-4538-99?cc=...

If John Askin owned his house in Toronto, there might be information in the land records and possibly a will.

Thank you so very much for this census record! I had almost given up hope of ever finding any further information as the 1852 census for Toronto is missing. This shows me that the John Askin in the Toronto directories is very very likely my ancestor! I am literally jumping for joy...yay!! And there was another child as well...a son. This is great!

Thank you also for the tip on where to persue further information. I will check into this right away. You made my day...actually you made my month!

Take care,
Tammy

You are very welcome.