Alexander Hamilton Fonds, 1809-1842

Alexander Hamilton (1790-1839) spent most of his life in Queenston, Ontario.  Alexander was a businessman, militia officer, Justice of the Peace, Sheriff, Judge, and Postmaster.   He had a lasting impact on the community and was a significant figure in the history of Upper Canada.  Alexander's father, Robert Hamilton, was a successful businessman, and his mother, Catherine, was a member of the prominent Askin family.   His wife, Hannah Owen Jarvis, was the daughter of the first provincial secretary and registrar William Jarvis.

Alexander's numerous roles saw him closely involved with many key events in the history of Upper Canada.  He was involved with the fur trade, served during the War of 1812, kept peace and order during the Rebellion of 1837, and played an important role in the early development of a cross-border postal system.  

Circular to all Post Masters in both the Canadas from T.A. Stayner, General Post Office, Quebec, 25 November 1837

A circular to postmasters about the political unrest and the duty to report traitors, dated just days before Mackenzie's rebellion near Toronto, November 25, 1837.