McDonald, John W.
In Memory /
of /
J. W. McDONALD /
who died /
July 24, 1869. /
Aged 34 years. /
He lived on earth to save his soul /
God knew his heart and called him home /
R. I. P. /
Sanford / [stone carver]
Halifax /
John McDonald was the son of Alexander and Margaret McDonald, born about 1835. He died of consumption at Antigonish Harbor on July 24, 1869.[1] Consumption AKA Tuberculosis is an airborne bacterial infection that affects primarily the lungs, but can invade other organs in the body resulting in wasting and destruction of body tissues.[2]
We look through the land records and discover a deed transferring property from Alexander and Margaret McDonald to a John McDonald. Is this the same John McDonald buried in the Pioneer Cemetery? There is no indication of relationship between the Grantor and Grantee noted on the Deed. If this is our John, he is of an age where he may be striking out to own and work his own land. One important clue is documented—the nickname No.11 is written to identify the Grantor in this case.[3]
Now we approach St Ninian Parish records and locate birth / baptismal records for three children born to Alexander and Margaret McDonald, No.11.
Isabel – born 17 Feb 1838 & bap 17 June 1838:
Hugh – born 15 May 1840 & bap 12 Jul 1840:
[5]
Catherine – born 11 Feb 1845 & bap 27 Apr 1845:
St. Ninian Parish has no birth or baptismal record for John W. McDonald, but the evidence suggests that John would be a member of the No.11 family. Anyone who may have a family bible, or any supporting documentation on this family, we would welcome hearing from you.
[1] NS Vitals – Death – Year: 1869 Book: 1802 Page: 35 Number: 132
[2] Tuberculosis – Symptoms & Causes – Mayo Clinic
[3] NS Property Online – Antigonish County – Book 15; Page 680.
[4] St. Ninian Parish Records – Baptismal Records
[5] Ibid
[6] Ibid