Benjamin Burrows Johnston was a builder, realtor and land promoter.
He lived at 2075 Nelson Street from 1906 to 1908. His wife, Emma, was at 2075 Nelson Street from 1909 to 1915.
Family Background
Benjamin Burrows Johnston was born on May 4, probably about 1854 or 1855, in Toronto, Ontario. His parents were James Elden Johnston (1812-1901) and Elizabeth Dever (about 1814-1893).
Elizabeth Johnston died in Vancouver in 1893.
James Johnston died in Vancouver in 1901.
Early Life
Benjamin went to school in Toronto.
His first main employment was with the Mercantile Agency in Toronto. Dun, Wiman and Company published The Mercantile Agency reference book, which rated Canadian merchants, manufacturers and traders.
To Manitoba
About 1881, Benjamin moved to Emerson, a town on the Red River, just north of the border with the United States.
Emerson was then in a “boom” period. In 1878, Charles Stanford Douglas, originally from Wisconsin, had started the Emerson International newspaper. Mr. Douglas married Benjamin’s sister, Annie Marie Johnston, on December 29, 1881.
Marriage to Emma Andrews
On January 19, 1882, in Thornbury, Ontario, Benjamin married Emma Amanda Andrews. She was born in Ontario on April 10, 1857. Her parents were Thomas Andrews (1831-1908) and Susan Chambers (1832-1895). Thomas Andrews was a store keeper and miller in Collingwood, Ontario.
One of Emma’s sisters, Elizabeth Tryphenia Andrews, married Almeron Soper Cross, who lived at 2040 Nelson Street from 1907 to about 1915 and again briefly in 1920.
Another of Emma’s sisters, Arvilla May Andrews, married Samuel Lyness Howe, who lived at 2045 Nelson Street from 1906 to 1939.
Life in Emerson
While Benjamin was in Emerson, he was a real estate salesman, developer, and local politician. He was on the Emerson municipal council for one term, and he was a provincial justice of the peace.
One of Benjamin’s projects was a resort town called Moberly, on the southwest shore of Whitewater Lake in southwestern Manitoba. The lake was very shallow and it had no railway access at the time, but this did not seem to discourage Moberley’s promoters. Despite a series of grand-sounding promotional documents, the town of Moberly did not come into being. It is not clear if Benjamin really thought that the town would succeed, or if the scheme was just a way to sell low-value property to people who were far away.
Benjamin was also involved in promoting railways in Manitoba. The federal parliament had passed an act called An Act Respecting the Canadian Pacific Railway, Statutes of Canada, 1881, Chapter 1, https://archive.org/stream/cihm_02046#page/n27/mode/1up. The act included a contract between the federal government and the Canadian Pacific Railway Company. Clause 15 of the contract purported to limit the construction of other competing railways: https://archive.org/stream/cihm_02046#page/n36/mode/1up:
“15. For twenty years from the date hereof, no line of railway shall be authorized by the Dominion Parliament to be constructed South of the Canadian Pacific Railway, from any point at or near the Canadian Pacific Railway, except such line as shall run South West or to the Westward of South West; nor to within fifteen miles of Latitude 49. And in the establishment of any new Province in the North-West Territories, provision shall be made for continuing such prohibition after such establishment until the expiration of the same period.”
However, the Canadian Pacific Railway was spending much of its time and capital on building its main railway line. The Manitoba legislature passed a series of acts intended to support local railway building and land development in the province. One railway company was the Emerson, Souris and Brandon Railway Company, which included Benjamin as one of the incorporators.
It appears that this railway did not come into being, partly because the Canadian Pacific Railway supported its main line through Winnipeg. In any case, Emerson’s boom had ended by the end of the 1880s.
To Vancouver
By 1891, Benjamin and Emma were in Vancouver, along with their children. The family lived at the following addresses in Vancouver.
| 1891 to 1894 | 537 Homer Street |
| 1895 | 510 Cambie Street |
| 1896-1898 | 806 Hornby Street |
| 1899 to 1905 | 735 Hornby Street |
| 1906 to 1908 | 2075 Nelson Street |
![2075 Nelson Street - 1908- detail from Vancouver City Archives - PAN P103 - [View of the 1900 Block and 2000 Block of Nelson Street]; http://searcharchives.vancouver.ca/view-of-1900-block-and-2000-block-of-nelson-street;rad](https://westendvancouver.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/2075-nelson-street-1908-detail-from-vancouver-city-archives-pan-p103-view-of-the-1900-block-and-2000-block-of-nelson-street.jpg)
Business in Vancouver
Benjamin was a notary public in Vancouver, and he became active in the real estate and brokerage business, first on his own, and later with Charles Stanford Douglas for about a year.
By 1896, Benjamin was operating as B.B. Johnston and Company. By 1897, Samuel Lyness Howe had joined the company.
In 1900, Benjamin and Mr. Howe built the Johnston-Howe Block, at the northwest corner of Georgia Street and Granville Street.
By 1902, the company was called the B.B. Johnston-Howe Company. One of its activities was to promote the area near Kitimat, in west-central British Columbia, as “the coming northern metropolis of Canada.” However, the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway chose Prince Rupert as the Pacific terminus of its line, which ended hopes for a metropolis at Kitimat.
Later Life
About 1906, Benjamin’s health began to decline. He died in Vancouver on November 30, 1908. He was buried in Mountain View Cemetery in Vancouver.
Emma continued to live in the house at 2075 Nelson Street. In 1912, she travelled to California to spend several winter months with her son, Norquay Johnston. They later returned to Vancouver.
Emma died in Vancouver on April 8, 1918. She was buried in Mountain View Cemetery in Vancouver.
Benjamin and Emma had the following children.
Edna Lucille Johnston
Edna Lucille Johnston was born on April 14, 1882 (some sources say 1883 or 1885), in Pembina, North Dakota.
On October 10, 1910, in Vancouver, Edna married Kenelm Evrard Nugent Carnahan, who was an accountant. He was born on April 30, 1879, in Owen Sound, Ontario. His parents were John Carnahan and Susanna Elizabeth Arthur.
The Carnahans lived at 1860 Nelson Street from 1911 to 1928
Kenelm died in Vancouver on March 31, 1936. He was buried in Ocean View Burial Park in Burnaby, British Columbia.
Edna died in Vancouver on August 31, 1940 in Vancouver. She was buried in Ocean View Burial Park in Burnaby.
Kenelm and Edna had a daughter named Marion Lucile Carnahan. She was born on April 12, 1915, in Thornbury, Ontario. She married James Frederick Turpin. His father was James Turpin (1881-1985). James Turpin, senior, was married to Annie Grace Toms.
Marion died in Vancouver on February 13, 1988.
Further information appears on the page for Kenelm Evrard (or Everard) Nugent Carnahan.
Norquay Andrews Johnston
Norquay Andrews Johnston was born in Arthur, Ontario, on December 2, 1884.
Norquay never married.
By 1911, he was working as a surveyor.
In December 1912, he and his mother went to California to spend the winter.
Norquay died in Vancouver, BC, Canada, on August 16, 1914, at the age 29. He was buried in Mountain View Cemetery in Vancouver.
Douglas Earle Johnston
Douglas Earle Johnston was born in Emerson, Manitoba, on November 16, 1886. He was a twin brother of Sholto La Touche Johnston.
Douglas worked as a financial agent and broker.
On April 30, 1915, in Vancouver, Douglas married Della Evelyn Johnston. She was born on December 13, 1893, in Vancouver. Her parents were James Irving Johnston (1843-1900) and Deborah Saphronia Kerfoot (1855-1941).
For a time, Douglas and Della lived in Kensington Place on Nicola Street.
Douglas served with the Canadian Expeditionary Force during the First World War.
Della died in Vancouver on April 12, 1949.
Douglas died in Vancouver on August 28, 1951.
Sholto La Touche Johnston
Sholto La Touche Johnston was born in Emerson, Manitoba, on November 16, 1886. He was a twin brother of Douglas Earl Johnston.
Sholto was active in sports, especially football.
He died in Vancouver on April 16, 1903, at the age of 16 years. He was buried in Mountain View Cemetery in Vancouver.
Sources
James Elden Johnston (father of Benjamin Burrows Johnston)
James Elden JOHNSTON (1812–1901); Birth: OCTOBER 14, 1812, IRELAND; Death: APRIL 19, 1901, Vancouver, British Columbia, CANADA (ancestry.ca).
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FLKB-V65 : accessed 13 July 2015), James E Johnston, 19 Apr 1901; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13093, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 1,927,121.
“Death of Mr. James E. Johnston,” Vancouver Province, April 20, 1901, page 3: “The death occurred yesterday afternoon of Mr. James E. Johnston, at the residence of his son, Mr. B.B. Johnston. The deceased, who was 89 years of age, had been in poor health for several months. The funeral will be private.”
James E. Johnston, death notice, Victoria Times, April 22, 1901, page 8, https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.3.1/TH-1942-28093-9680-34?cc=2001136&wc=M61J-HWP:284757401: “Died: Johnston – At Vancouver, on the 19th inst., James E. Johnston, in his 89th year.”
“Find A Grave Index,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QVV5-31TZ : accessed 13 July 2015), James E. Johnston, 1901; Burial, Vancouver, Greater Vancouver Regional District, British Columbia, Canada, Mountain View Cemetery; citing record ID 26303661, Find a Grave, http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=26303661.
Elizabeth Dever (mother of Benjamin Burrows Johnston)
Elizabeth DEVER (1813–1893); Birth: ABOUT 1813, IRELAND; Death: JUNE 26, 1893, Vancouver, British Columbia, CANADA (ancestry.ca).
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FL2X-STY : accessed 13 July 2015), Elizabeth Johnston, 26 Jun 1893; citing , British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13092, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 1,927,120.
“Find A Grave Index,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QVV5-31GV : accessed 13 July 2015), Elizabeth Johnston, 1893; Burial, Vancouver, Greater Vancouver Regional District, British Columbia, Canada, Mountain View Cemetery; citing record ID 26263332, Find a Grave, http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=26263332.
Benjamin Burrows Johnston
Benjamin Burrows JOHNSTON (1855–1908); Birth: ABOUT 1855, Toronto, York Co., ON, CANADA; Death NOVEMBER 30, 1908, Vancouver, British Columbia, CANADA (ancestry.ca).
“Ontario Census, 1861,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MQQ1-ZXT : accessed 8 July 2015), Benjamin Johnson, Maryborough, Wellington, Ontario, Canada; citing p. 5, line 4; Library and Archives Canada film number C-1083, Public Archives, Toronto; FHL microfilm 349,332; http://data2.collectionscanada.gc.ca/1861/pdf/4108430_00363.pdf.
Robert Craig Brown, “WIMAN, ERASTUS,” in Dictionary of Canadian Biography, vol. 13, University of Toronto/Université Laval, 2003–, accessed July 10, 2015, http://www.biographi.ca/en/bio/wiman_erastus_13E.html. [Associated with Dun, Wiman Inc., publishers of the Mercantile Agency Reference Book.]
“Canada Census, 1881,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MVD1-V7L : accessed 8 July 2015), B. Benjamin Johnston in household of J. James Johnston, Emerson (Town), Provencher, Manitoba, Canada; citing p. 19; Library and Archives Canada film number C-13282, Library and Archives Canada, Ottawa, Ontario; FHL microfilm 1,375,918; http://data2.collectionscanada.gc.ca/e/e329/e008209839.pdf
“Ontario Marriages, 1869-1927,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FMJ4-FN7 : accessed 7 July 2015), Benjamin Burrows Johnston and Emma Amanda Andrews, 19 Jan 1882; citing registration , Thornbury, Grey, Ontario, Canada, Archives of Ontario, Toronto; FHL microfilm .
Emerson, Manitoba, Wikipedia article, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emerson,_Manitoba.
The Rise and Fall of Emerson, by Marjorie Forrester, Manitoba Pageant, April 1957, http://www.mhs.mb.ca/docs/pageant/02/emerson.shtml.
Historic Sites of Manitoba: Moberly Town Site (RM of Winchester), http://www.mhs.mb.ca/docs/sites/moberly.shtml: “In 1882, promoters began to extoll the virtues of Moberly, on the southwest shore of Whitewater Lake, in what would become the Rural Municipality of Winchester. Its founder, Benjamin B. Johnson of Emerson, saw Moberly as a future resort town. A detailed town plan was created and lots were offered for sale but it never materialized. The plan was cancelled formally in 1920.”
“Moberly land swindle — townsite lots were sold during great land boom of 1881-82.” by Bruce Cherney, Winnipeg Real Estate News, April 17, 2009; https://www.winnipegrealestatenews.com/publications/real-estate-news/827.
Railways and the Manitoba School Question, by James A. Jackson, MHS Transactions, Series 3, Number 30, 1973-74 season; http://www.mhs.mb.ca/docs/transactions/3/railwayschools.shtml.
“Canada Census, 1891,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MWK3-96X : accessed 8 July 2015), B B Johnston, Vancouver City, New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada; Public Archives, Ottawa, Ontario; Library and Archives Canada film number 30953_148093; http://data2.collectionscanada.gc.ca/1891/pdf/30953_148093-00151.pdf.
5 West Hastings Street, https://changingvancouver.wordpress.com/2013/01/17/5-west-hastings/: Douglas & Co., Vancouver Daily World Souvenir Edition [“Souvenir Publication” on title page], 1891, page 12: “Mr. B. B. Johnston is a native of Toronto, where he received his early education in the schools of his native city. After leaving school he entered the mercantile agency office and subsequently published The Mercantile Agency for the city and country. This he conducted successfully until 1881, when he removed to Emerson, Manitoba, and engaged in real estate. Here he was very successful in his operations and accumulated considerable wealth. He took a prominent part in the upbuilding of the gateway city, was a member of the council, serving one term and declining a re-nomination and was also Justice of the Peace for the Province of Manitoba up to the time of his departure for Vancouver, in 1889. Upon his arrival here he engaged in the real estate and commission business operating alone until December, when he formed the present partnership with Mr. Douglas. Mr. Johnston is a Notary Public for the Province of British Columbia. The firm soon forged to the front and are to-day amongst the heaviest dealers in real estate in Vancouver. They do a general real estate business, buy and sell property, rent houses and negotiate loans on real estate securities for residents and non residents in England, Eastern Canada and the United States. The firm controls and has the exclusive sale of some of the most desirable property in the city and vicinity and controls the sale of several valuable additions and sub-divisions notable among which are Sub-divisions 628 and 629 on Mount Pleasant, beautifully located, bounded on the east by Westminster Avenue and on the west by Ontario Street. Although progressive they are alike conservative in their transactions, and all business placed with them receives prompt attention, and the most careful supervision is given to all negotiations and transactions of landed interests.”
B.C. Voters List 1898 – Jo to Jz, http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~canbc/vote1898/votejo.htm: Johnstone, Benjamin Burrows, Hoffman House, Cordova St, Real estate agent, Van
“Canada Census, 1901,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KHVN-T25 : accessed 7 July 2015), Benjamin B Johnston, D, Burrard, British Columbia, Canada; citing p. 7, Library and Archives of Canada, Ottawa; http://automatedgenealogy.com/census/View.jsp?id=59849&highlight=5&desc=1901+Census+of+Canada+page+containing+Benjamin+B.+Johnston; http://data2.collectionscanada.ca/1901/z/z001/pdf/z000010314.pdf
Johnston-Howe Block – West Georgia and Granville (1), Changing Vancouver, https://changingvancouver.wordpress.com/2013/01/05/johnston-howe-block-west-georgia-and-granville/
5 West Hastings Street, Changing Vancouver, https://changingvancouver.wordpress.com/tag/b-b-johnston/
The Private International Port of Kitimat, http://www.kitimat.ca/assets/Business/PDFs/private-international-port-of-kitimat.pdf, page 13 of PDF document.
Society, Vancouver Province, October 21, 1908, page 9: “Mr. W.S. Johnston of Toronto, who was here visiting his brother, Mr. B.B. Johnston, left yesterday for his home in the east.”
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FLKC-YM9 : accessed 7 July 2015), Benjamin Burrows Johnston, 30 Nov 1908; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13096, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 1,927,124.
“Find A Grave Index,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QVV5-312T : 10 December 2019), Benjamin Burrows Johnston, ; Burial, Vancouver, Greater Vancouver Regional District, British Columbia, Canada, Mountain View Cemetery; citing record ID 26303663, Find a Grave, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/26303663: “Benjamin Burrows Johnston; Birth: 20 May 1854, Ontario, Canada; Death: 30 Nov 1908 (aged 54), Vancouver, Greater Vancouver Regional District, British Columbia, Canada; Burial: Mountain View Cemetery, Vancouver, Greater Vancouver Regional District, British Columbia, Canada; Plot: OLD/1/03/001/0007; Memorial ID: 26303663.”
“City Pioneer Passes Away: Mr. B.B. Johnston, Head of Well-Known Real Estate Firm, Dies After Long Illness – Native of Ontario, Coming to Coast in 1888,” Vancouver World, November 30, 1908, page 1: “Death has removed another from the rapidly thinning ranks of the pioneers of Vancouver. Mr. Benjamin Burroughs Johnston, of 2075 Nelson street, and head of the well known realty firm of B.C. Johnston, Howe & co., passed away at an early hour this morning, at his residence on Nelson street. The end came after a long illness, extending over a couple of years, during which Mr. Johnston made a plucky fight against the effects of dropsy. A phenomenally vigorous constitution enabled him to withstand the effect of repeated operations until the last few days when he failed rapidly. The deceased, who was a native of Ontario, and aged 53 years, had been a resident of Vancouver since 1888, and was one of the best known real estate dealers in the city. He leaves a sorrowing widow, one daughter, Miss Edna Johnston, and two sons, Douglas and Narquay [sic] Johnston, as well as a number of other relatives in the city, to mourn his demise. The funeral arrangements have not yet been definitively made, but the interment will take place in the family plot at the Mountain View cemetery some day this week.”
B.B. Johnston, obituary, Vancouver Daily News-Advertiser, December 2, 1908, page 12: “The funeral of the late B.B. Johnston will take place this afternoon at 2 o’clock from the family residence, 2075 Nelson Street. Rev. C.C. Owen will conduct the obsequies.”
B.B. Johnston, funeral description, Vancouver World, December 3, 1908, page 10: “JOHNSTON. The funeral of the late B. B. Johnston took place from the family residence on Nelson street at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, the remains being interred in the family plot at Mountain View. Rev. C. C. Owen conducted the services. The pall bearers were Messrs. G. H. Cowan, T. O. Townley, R. G. Macpherson, Wm. Newsome, A. E. Tregent and H. Youdall. The floral tributes from friends and acquaintance of the family were numerous and beautiful.”
Emma Amanda Andrews (wife of Benjamin Burrows Johnston)
Emma Amanda Emily ANDREWS (1857–1918); Birth: 1857, Ontario; Death: 8 APR 1918, Vancouver, British Columbia, CANADA (ancestry.ca).
Historical Overview of the Blue Mountains Town Site, Rob Potter, July 2008, http://www.thebluemountains.ca/public_docs/documents/Town%20Hall%20-%20Potter_001.pdf. Describes history of Thornbury, Ontario, including Thomas Andrews, who was the reeve of Thornbury from 1887 to 1892.
“Canada Census, 1871,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:M4Q1-36J : accessed 9 July 2015), Thomas Andrews in household of Susan Andrews, Collingwood, North Grey, Ontario, Canada; citing p. 36, line 17; Library and Archives Canada film number C-9953, Public Archives, Ottawa, Ontario; FHL microfilm 4,396,616; http://data2.collectionscanada.ca/1871/pdf/4396616_00555.pdf
“Canada Census, 1881,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MVFP-BGX : accessed 9 July 2015), Thomas Andrews, Collingwood, Grey East, Ontario, Canada; citing p. 66; Library and Archives Canada film number C-13261, Library and Archives Canada, Ottawa, Ontario; FHL microfilm 1,375,897; http://data2.collectionscanada.gc.ca/e/e328/e008193530.pdf.
“Canada Census, 1891,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MW2B-NY1 : accessed 9 July 2015), Thomas Andrews, Thornbury, Grey East, Ontario, Canada; Public Archives, Ottawa, Ontario; Library and Archives Canada film number 30953_148140; http://data2.collectionscanada.gc.ca/1891/pdf/30953_148140-00458.pdf
“Canada Census, 1901,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KH2R-K4Q : accessed 9 July 2015), Thomas Andrews, J, Grey (east/est), Ontario, Canada; citing p. 8, Library and Archives of Canada, Ottawa; http://automatedgenealogy.com/census/View.jsp?id=34183&highlight=31&desc=1901+Census+of+Canada+page+containing+Thomas+Andrews; http://data2.collectionscanada.ca/1901/z/z002/pdf/z000064412.pdf.
Ontario Cemetery Finding Aid; http://ocfa.islandnet.com/ocfa-search.php:
| Name | Cemetery | County | Township | Reference |
| ANDREWS, Susan (Chambers) (w/o Thomas) | Thornbury-Clarksburg Union | Grey | Collingwood | BG-G-037 |
| ANDREWS, Thomas (h/o Susan Chambers) | Thornbury-Clarksburg Union | Grey | Collingwood | BG-G-037 |
Susan (Chambers) ANDREWS; 1832-1895; Thornbury & Clarksburg Union Cemetery; Clarksburg, Collingwood Township ; Grey County, ON; http://geneofun.on.ca/names/photo/194118.
Thomas ANDREWS; 1831-1908; Thornbury & Clarksburg Union Cemetery ; Clarksburg, Collingwood Township; Grey County, ON; http://geneofun.on.ca/names/photo/194119
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FLKC-PWY : accessed 9 July 2015), Thomas Andrews, 02 May 1908; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13096, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 1,927,124. [Occupation: merchant miller]
Thomas Andrews, death notice, Vancouver World, May 2, 1908, page 20: “ANDREWS. The death occurred in this city last evening of Thomas Andrews, who entered into rest at the residence of his son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. S. L. Lowe, 2045 Nelson street. The deceased was 77 years of age and a native of England. The remains will be shipped east tomorrow afternoon to Thornbury, Ont., where they will be interred. Service will be held at the residence at 2 p. m. by Rev. C. C. Owen.”
Society, B.C. Saturday Sunset, February 13, 1909, page 4; http://content.lib.sfu.ca/cdm/compoundobject/collection/bcss/id/1510/rec/32: [link leads to page 1; select page 4]: “Mr. E. Leverson has taken the lovely home of Mrs. B.B. Johnson [sic] for a few months.”
“Recensement du Canada de 1911,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QV95-MG9T : accessed 7 July 2015), Emily Amanda Johnston, 1911; citing Census, Vancouver Sub-Districts 1-18, British Columbia, Canada, Library and Archives of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario; FHL microfilm ; http://automatedgenealogy.com/census11/View.jsp?id=63708&highlight=14&desc=1911+Census+of+Canada+page+containing+Emily+Amanda+Johnston; http://data2.collectionscanada.gc.ca/1911/pdf/e001940085.pdf.
Society, Vancouver Province, December 27, 1912, page 8: “Mrs. B.B. Johnston and her son Mr. Norquay Johnston left last week for California with the intention of spending the rest of the winter in the South.”
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FLK8-TV8 : accessed 7 July 2015), Emma Amanda Johnston, 08 Apr 1918; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13103, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 1,927,131.
“Was One of Pioneers,” Vancouver Sun, April 10, 1918, page 12: “Mrs. A. Johnston, who died at 2075 Nelson street, was one of the pioneers of the city, having been a resident of Vancouver for 29 years. She was the relict of the late B.B. Johnston, and was in her 59th year. Her son, Lieut. Douglas E. Johnston, of the 72nd Battalion, reached the city from France a few days before his mother’s end. One daughter, Mrs. K.E. Carnahan, and two sisters, Mrs. A.L. Cross and Mrs. S.L. Howe, also survive her. The funeral will take place this afternoon at 2:30 from her late residence to Mountain View cemetery.”
Edna Lucille Johnston (daughter of Benjamin Burrows Johnston)
“British Columbia Marriage Registrations, 1859-1932,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:JDZF-TZT : accessed 7 July 2015), Kenelen Everard Carnahan and Edna Lucille Johnston, 10 Oct 1910; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, British Columbia Archives film number B11374, Vital Statistics Agency, Victoria; FHL microfilm 1,983,702.
Social and Personal, Vancouver Province, October 10, 1910, page 5: “A wedding which has been looked forward to with much interest was celebrated in Christ Church at 1:30 o’clock today when Mr. Kenelm Canrahan [sic] of the Molsons Bank staff, and Miss Edna Lucile Johnston, daughter of Mrs. B.B. Johnston, were married by Rev. C.C. Owen. . . . The bride . . . was given away by her brother. . . . Two bridesmaids were in attendance, Miss Vesta Fisher . . . and Miss Bertha Youdall. . . . Mr. J. Conkey was best man. . . . The party afterwards drove to the bride’s home on Nelson street, where a luncheon was served to only the immediate relatives of the couple. The bride was the recipient of a number of very handsome gifts. Mr. and Mrs. Carnahan left for a short honeymoon trip, from which they will return to take up their residence at 1860 Nelson street. . . .”
“Canada Births and Baptisms, 1661-1959,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:F2JK-K68 : accessed 7 July 2015), Kenchun Everard Nugen Carnahan, 28 Apr 1879; citing St. Vincent Twp., Grey, Ontario, 28 Apr 1879, reference cn 7252; FHL microfilm 1,845,220.
“Ontario Births, 1869-1912,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FM8G-3S9 : accessed 7 July 2015), Kenchun Everard Nugen Carnahan, 28 Apr 1879; citing St. Vincent Twp., Grey, Ontario, Canada, registration number ; FHL microfilm 1,845,220.
“Canada Census, 1891,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MW2B-D9M : accessed 7 July 2015), Kinelin Carnahan, St Vincent, Grey East, Ontario, Canada; Public Archives, Ottawa, Ontario; Library and Archives Canada film number 30953_148140; http://data2.collectionscanada.gc.ca/1891/pdf/30953_148140-00363.pdf.
“Canada Census, 1901,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KHLY-LFR : accessed 7 July 2015), Kenneth Carnahan in household of Elizabeth Wheeler, B, Ottawa (city/cité), Ontario, Canada; citing p. 23, Library and Archives of Canada, Ottawa; http://data2.collectionscanada.ca/1901/z/z002/pdf/z000090450.pdf; http://automatedgenealogy.com/census/View.jsp?id=97880&highlight=1&desc=1901+Census+of+Canada+page+containing+Kenneth+Carnahan
“Recensement du Canada de 1911,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QV95-MG46 : accessed 7 July 2015), Kenelm E Carnahan, 1911; citing Census, Vancouver Sub-Districts 1-18, British Columbia, Canada, Library and Archives of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario; FHL microfilm ; http://automatedgenealogy.com/census11/View.jsp?id=63711&highlight=31&desc=1911+Census+of+Canada+page+containing+Renelon+E.+Carnahan; http://data2.collectionscanada.gc.ca/1911/pdf/e001940088.pdf.
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FL5V-59L : accessed 7 July 2015), Kenelm Evrard Nugent Carnahan, 31 Mar 1936; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13156, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 1,953,020.
“Kenelm Carnahan Died on Tuesday; Well-known Businessman to be Laid at Rest on Thursday,” Vancouver PROVINCE, April 1, 1936, page 3:
Kenelm E. Carnahan, well-known Vancouver resident, died suddenly on Tuesday at his home, 1631 West Fortieth avenue. He was aged 57.
Coming to B.C. from his native Ontario in 1906, Mr. Carnahan, an accountant, was first employed at the old Molsons Bank. He later joined the staff of the Kelly, Douglas Company, and when he retired in 1930 became associated with the Robertson & Hackett Sawmill Co.
Active in club circles, Mr. Carnahan was past master of Western Gate Lodge No. 48 A.F. & A.M., and a member of the Canadian Club. He also took a keen interest in work at Christ Church.
He is survived by his wife; a daughter, Marion; two brothers, W.J.A. and George, of Toronto’ a sister, Mrs. R.A. Conkey, and his uncle, S.L. Howe.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday from Christ Church Cathedral. Rev. W.R. Ramsay Armitage, D.D. assisted by Rev. C.C. Owen, will officiate, and interment will take place in the family plot, Ocean View Burial Park. Center & Hanna Undertaking Co. is in charge of arrangements.
Kenelm Evrard Nuget [sic] Carnahan, death notice, Vancouver Province, April 1, 1936, page 17: “Carnahan – Passed away suddenly on March 31, 1936, Kenelm Evrard Nuget Carnahan, 1631 West Fortieth avenue, in his fifty-seventh year. Survived by his loving wife, one daughter, Marion, at home; two brothers, William in Toronto and George in Meaford, Ont.; 1 sister, Mrs. R.A. Conkey, and an uncle, Hon. S.L. Howe, both of this city. Funeral service on Thursday at 2 o’clock, in Christ Church Cathedral, Very Rev. Dean Armitage, assisted by Lieut.-Col. Rev. C.C. Owen, officiating. Committal family plot, Ocean View Burial Park. Center & Hanna, funeral directors, in charge. Toronto and Meaford Papers please copy.”
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FLKP-SVJ : accessed 7 July 2015), Edna Lucile Carnahan, 31 Aug 1940; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13169, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 1,953,629.
Edna Lucile Carnahan, death notice, Vancouver Province, September 2, 1940, page 15: “Carnahan – ON Aug. 31, 1940, at her residence, 1631 West 40th Ave., Edna Lucile, widow of the late K.E. Carnahan and daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. B.B. Johnston, age 57 years. Survived by one daughter, Mrs. J.F. Turpin; and 1 brother, Douglas Johnston, city. Funeral service at the residence Tuesday afternoon at 3:30 o’clock, Rev. C.C. Owen officiating. Committal Ocean View Burial Park. Center & Hanna directors.”
British Columbia Death Registrations; Registration Number: 1988-09-002361 Marion Lucile Turpin; date of death: February 13, 1988; place of death: Vancouver.
Norquay Andrews Johnston (son of Benjamin Burrows Johnston)
“Ontario Births, 1869-1912,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FMQR-GD6 : accessed 7 July 2015), Forquay Andrews Johnston, 1884; citing Arthur, Wellington, Ontario, Canada, registration number ; FHL microfilm 1,845,871.
“Canada Census, 1891,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MWK3-96J : accessed 11 July 2015), N A Johnston, Vancouver City, New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada; Public Archives, Ottawa, Ontario; Library and Archives Canada film number 30953_148093; http://data2.collectionscanada.gc.ca/1891/pdf/30953_148093-00151.pdf.
“Canada Census, 1901,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KHVN-T2Y : accessed 11 July 2015), Norquay A Johnston in household of Benjamin B Johnston, D, Burrard, British Columbia, Canada; citing p. 7, Library and Archives of Canada, Ottawa; http://automatedgenealogy.com/census11/View.jsp?id=63708&highlight=15&desc=1911+Census+of+Canada+page+containing+Norqua%3F+Andrews+Johnston;
“Recensement du Canada de 1911,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QV95-MG9Y : accessed 11 July 2015), Marques Andrew Johnston in entry for Emily Amanda Johnston, 1911; citing Census, Vancouver Sub-Districts 1-18, British Columbia, Canada, Library and Archives of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario; FHL microfilm ; http://automatedgenealogy.com/census11/View.jsp?id=63708&highlight=15&desc=1911+Census+of+Canada+page+containing+Norqua%3F+Andrews+Johnston; http://data2.collectionscanada.gc.ca/1911/pdf/e001940085.pdf.
“United States Border Crossings from Canada to United States, 1895-1956,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:X2K8-835 : accessed 11 July 2015), Norquay Johnston, Oct 1913; from “Border Crossings: From Canada to U.S., 1895-1954,” database and images, Ancestry (http://www.ancestry.com : 2010); citing Ship , arrival port Blaine, Washington,, line 16, NARA microfilm publication M1464, roll 232, NARA record group 85, National Archives and Records Administration, Washington D.C.
“Vermont, St. Albans Canadian Border Crossings, 1895-1924,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QK31-R1RK : accessed 11 July 2015), Norquay Johnston, 1895-1924; citing M1461, Soundex Index to Canadian Border Entries through the St. Albans, Vermont, District, 1895-1924, 209, NARA microfilm publications M1461, M1463, M1464, and M1465 (Washington D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration, publication year); FHL microfilm 1,473,009.
“Vermont, St. Albans Canadian Border Crossings, 1895-1924,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QK3B-42DC : accessed 11 July 2015), Norquay Johnston, 1913; citing M1464, Soundex Index to Canadian Border Entries through the St. Albans, Vermont, District, 1895-1924, 232, NARA microfilm publications M1461, M1463, M1464, and M1465 (Washington D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration, publication year); FHL microfilm 1,561,318.
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FLK9-6PN : accessed 7 July 2015), Horquay Andrews Johnston, 16 Aug 1914; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13101, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 1,927,129.
“Find A Grave Index,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QVV5-31BG : accessed 11 July 2015), Norquay A. Johnston, 1914; Burial, Vancouver, Greater Vancouver Regional District, British Columbia, Canada, Mountain View Cemetery; citing record ID 26303667, Find a Grave, http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=26303667.
Norquay Andrews Johnston, death notice, Vancouver Sun, August 17, 1914, page 12: “Johnston – Norquay Andrews Johnston, son of Mrs. B.B. Johnston, died Sunday afternoon, August 16, at 5:30 p.m. Funeral Tuesday afternoon from the residence, 2075 Nelson St., to Mountain View Cemetery.
Norquay Andrews Johnston, death notice, Vancouver Province, August 17, 1914, page 13: “Johnston – Norquay Andrews Johnston, son of Mrs. B.B. Johnston, died Sunday evening at 5:30. The funeral will take place from his home at 2075 Nelson street, Tuesday afternoon, at 2:30.”
Douglas Earle Johnston (son of Benjamin Burrows Johnston)
Manitoba Birth Registrations, Registration Number: 1886-004645; Douglas Earl Johnston; date of birth: November 16, 1886; place of birth: Emerson; mother: Emily Andrews.
“Death of J.I. Johnston; One of Vancouver’s Most Energetic Business Men Passes Away,” Vancouver Daily World, September 17, 1900, page 8: “In the death of James I. Johnston, senior member of the firm of Johnston, Kerfoot & Co., who passed peacefully away at his residence, 831 Burrard street, on Sunday morning after an illness of several month[s], Vancouver loses one its best known and most enterprising business men. Deceased came to Vancouver early in 1889, and since then has been actively engaged in business. . . . [T]he firm of Johnston, Kerfoot & Co. now enjoys the reputation of possessing one of the largest and most complete gents’ furnishing establishments in the west. . . . He was a native of Bowmanville, Ont., and in his 56th year, when he died. He leaves a widow and six children – three sons and three daughters – to mourn the loss they have sustained in a devoted husband and a loving father. Deceased aged father is living in the city, with another son, Mr. B.B. Johnston, 735 Hornby street. Mrs. C.S. Douglas, Georgia street, is a sister. . . . The funeral will take place to-morrow, Tuesday, at 2:30 p.m. from the family residence.”
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FLKP-LXZ : accessed 13 July 2015), Deborah Saphronia Johnston, 25 Nov 1941; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13173, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 1,953,633.
“Mrs. Johnston, Pioneer City Woman, Dead,” Vancouver Sun, November 26, 1941, page 9: “Mrs. Deborah S. Johnston, 86, member of a pioneer Vancouver family, died Tuesday at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Douglas Johnston, 2180 Southwest Marine Drive. Born in Carp, Ont., Mrs. Johnston was the daughter of the late William Kerfoot, who came to Vancouver in 1889 and established himself with his family at Sixteenth Avenue and Kingsway – a close neighbor, incidentally, of the late James McGeer, father of G.G. McGeer, M.P.
Mrs. Johnston’s husband, the late J.I. Johnston, and her brother, W.J. Kerfoot (now living retired in Los Angeles) were in the men’s furnishings business together in a large shop on Hastings Street, on the site of Woodward’s Store, operating under the firm name of Johnston, Kerfoot & Co. – this in the period between 45 and 50 years ago.
The late B.B. Johnston, brother of Mrs. Johnston’s husband, was the business partner at that time of the late S.L. Howe, who became lieutenant-governor [sic: Samuel Lyness Howe did not become lieutenant-governor.].
Mrs. Johnston’s husband pre-deceased her some years ago, and a son, Major R.K. Johnston, was killed in the First Great War while serving with the Seaforth Highlanders.
She leaves two sons, D.H. and O.M. Johnston; three daughters, Mrs. H.E. Boorman, Victoria; Mrs. Douglas Johnston and Mrs. Rodney DeLisle, Vancouver; three brothers, W.J. Kerfoot, Los Angeles; T.W. and G.B. Kerfoot, Vancouver.
Private funeral services today at 2 p.m. at the residence of her daughter, Rev. E.D. Braden, D.D., officiating; burial, Mountain View Cemetery. Center & Hanna are in charge of funeral arrangements.”
Deborah S. Johnston, death notice, Vancouver Sun, November 25, 1941, page 18; Vancouver Province, November 25, 1941, page 17.
“British Columbia Marriage Registrations, 1859-1932,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:JDZJ-NHH : accessed 7 July 2015), Douglas Earle Johnston and Della Evelyn Johnston, 30 Apr 1915; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, British Columbia Archives film number B11378, Vital Statistics Agency, Victoria; FHL microfilm 1,983,706.
Douglas Johnston and Della Johnston, marriage notice, Vancouver Province, May 1, 1915, page 8: “The marriage was quietly celebrated yesterday in Christ Church by Rev. C.C. Owen, of Mr. Douglas Johnston, son of Mrs. B.B. Johnston, 2075 Nelson street, and Miss Della Johnston, daughter of Mrs. J.I. Johnston, 1419 Harwood street. The bride was given away by her brother, Lieut. R.K. Johnston. Mrs. and Mrs. Johnston left for the south, where they will spend their honeymoon. On their return they will take up their residence at Kensington Place, Nicola street.”
Canadian Expeditionary Force, officer’s declaration paper, Name: Johnston, Douglas Earle; Rank: LT; Date of Birth: 16/11/1888; Reference: RG 150, Accession 1992-93/166, Box 4859 – 26; Item Number: 335776; http://www.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/discover/military-heritage/first-world-war/first-world-war-1914-1918-cef/Pages/item.aspx?IdNumber=335776.
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FL5C-H7C : accessed 7 July 2015), Douglas Earl Johnston, 28 Aug 1951; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13209, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 2,032,701.
“New York, Passenger Arrival Lists (Ellis Island), 1892-1924,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:JJYJ-5TL : accessed 7 July 2015), Della E. Johnston, 28 Jan 1912; citing departure port Liverpool, arrival port New York, ship name Celtic, NARA microfilm publication T715 and M237 (Washington D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration, n.d.).
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FL5X-FJZ : accessed 7 July 2015), Della Evelyn Johnston, 12 Apr 1949; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13200, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 2,032,570.
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FL1J-TVM : accessed 7 July 2015), Pamela Douglas Johnston, 16 Mar 1984; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13637, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 2,073,154.
Sholto La Touche Johnston (son of Benjamin Burrows Johnston)
Manitoba Birth Registrations, Registration Number: 1886-004646; Sholto La Touche Johnston; date of birth: November 16, 1886; place of birth: Emerson; mother: Emily Andrews.
“Canada Census, 1901,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KHVN-T21 : accessed 7 July 2015), Sholto L Johnston in household of Benjamin B Johnston, D, Burrard, British Columbia, Canada; citing p. 7, Library and Archives of Canada, Ottawa; http://automatedgenealogy.com/census/View.jsp?id=59849&highlight=10&desc=1901+Census+of+Canada+page+containing+Sholto+L+Johnston; http://data2.collectionscanada.ca/1901/z/z001/pdf/z000010314.pdf.
“British Columbia Death Registrations, 1872-1986,” database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FLVB-P6X : accessed 7 July 2015), Sholto L Johnston, 16 Apr 1903; citing Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Archives film number B13094, Division of Vital Statistics, Victoria; FHL microfilm 1,927,122; medical certificate of death: https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.3.1/TH-266-11627-27422-12?cc=1538285.
“Young Athlete’s Sad Demise,” Vancouver Province, April 17, 1903, page 12:
Mr. and Mrs. B.B. Johnston of Hornby street will have the sympathy of a large circle of friends and acquaintances on the sad death of their 16-year-old son, Mr. Sholto D. [sic] Johnston , who passed away yesterday, after an illness of about two weeks.
Mr. Sholto Johnston was one of the most promising young athletes in the city, and for some time had been a leading member of the junior football team. He had always enjoyed perfect health, and apparently had a long life before him. He had an attack of the grippe about three weeks ago which confined him to his room for some time, but he was thought to be on the road to recovery. He had a serious relapse, however, and later, when he recovered from that, it was found that an operation would be necessary to remove a small abcess [sic] which had formed at the base of the brain as a result of the illness. The operation was performed, and for two weeks afterward he hovered between life and death, while all that science and skill could suggest was brought to bear on his case. But he gradually grew weaker, until the Tuesday night before he died, when he took a decided turn for the worse. However, on Wednesday he rallied again, and gave hope once more that he would pull through after all. He seemed brighter all that night, and no perceptible change took place until about ten minutes before the end, when his heart seemed to grow weary of the long strain that had been put upon it, and death gently snuffed out the light which had been flickering so feebly.
He will be missed everywhere by his comrades and much sympathy is felt for the family, especially for his twin brother Douglas, who has always been so closely connected with him in all his games.
“Find A Grave Index,” database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QVV5-3115 : accessed 7 July 2015), Sholti L. Johnston, 1903; Burial, Vancouver, Greater Vancouver Regional District, British Columbia, Canada, Mountain View Cemetery; citing record ID 26303662, Find a Grave, http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=26303662.
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