My Family Tree

James was the son of William Ellis and Nancy Campbell.

According to the History of the Ellis Family by Preston Ellis, James farmed in Lot 12, Low Point and was Harbour Master for many years.

He married Eleanor (Nellie) McArthur in 1846. Witnesses were Martin Linch and Hector McDougald.

There were no children listed for James and Nellie in the PEI Baptismal Index.

Name James Ellis
Age 76
Date of Burial 15 October 1897
Source pre-1906 Death Index. St. James Church, Port Hill
Notes Pres. Cemetery

James' will named only his wife Nellie and son William.

It is with deep regret that we chronicle the death of Mr James Ellis, Sr. which sad event occured at his residence, East Bideford, Lot 12, on the 13th inst. The deceased was born at Bideford and was 76 years of age. In his death one of the old landmarks of the place has been removed. His life was a most active one and during his long and useful career he was engaged in various occupations, in all of which he discharged his duties faithfully and well. In his younger days he went to sea, and crossed the Atlantic several times. Abondoning the seafaring life he settled down on his fine farm near Lot 12 Point. Mr Ellis was also a mechanic of very considerable skill. for many years he built ships on the banks of the Bideford River. In his day he was employed as master of coasting schooners and in this capacity always showed good judgement. For upwards of 30 years he filed the position of pilot for Malpeque and other harbours on the north side of the Island and was eminently successful at this perilous work. Mr Ellis was highly esteemed by those who enjoyed his acquaintance. He had a great fund of anecdote and he opten entertained his friends by relating his varied experience on land and sea. The deceased gentleman will be missed in the community. Examiner 23 Oct 1897 pg 2