William Arthur was from Ireland and he came to Quebec to a place called Dunham, not far from the American border. He farmed there and then moved to Fairfield, Vermont, possibly because his wife was an American. His son was Chester and he was born in Vermont. The 1870 American census clearly shows William Arthur born in Ireland.
Enemies of Chester Arthur who was Vice President to President Garfield, tried their darndest to disqualify him on the grounds he was born in Canada. The fact of his father was also brought up. Arthur said his father was given American citizenship in 1843, and this was sufficient. In 1883, Garfield was assassinated and Arthur took office. He was so unpopular, the Pubbies would not even nominate him in the next Presidential race.
Excuse the screed, but I just love history and research.
Quebec to a place called Dunham,
There’s some irony for ya.
Thank you very much! Seeing as I find it somewhat tedious, I appreciate your information. I find it very interesting, just can’t be bothered searching for it.
LOL I’ll second the love of history and research! Ok Judy, wherefrom in Canada?