Cartwright, Richard

(1759-1815)

   Born at Albany, New York. On the outbreak of hostilities with the mother country came with his parents to Upper Canada. For a time served as secretary to Colonel Butler of the Queen's Rangers, and later engaged in business at Kingston in partnership with Robert Hamilton. Made judge of the Court of Common Pleas for the district, and on the formation of Upper Canada into a separate province appointed to the Legislative Council. Urged to accept a seat in the Executive Council, but repeatedly refused. Created lieutenant of the county of Frontenac by Simcoe, and during the War of 1812 served as colonel of the militia. Occupied a position of great prominence in the political and business life of the province.

   Index: BL Offered and refuses solicitor-generalship of Upper Canada, 120; his letter of explanation, 121. R His influence on Strachan, 37. Bk Brock's high opinion of, 179. S On later emigration from United States, 57; member of Legislative Council, 79; his report on marriage question, in Upper Canada, 86; accused by Simcoe of republicanism, 97, 98; asserts his loyalty, 98; advises Simcoe in regard to land regulations, 103; describes methods of business in early times, 109.

   Bib.: Cartwright, Life and Letters of Hon. Richard Cartwright.