Family History Society of Newfoundland and Labrador – Online Lecture
Presenter: Chris Curran
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William Keen and the Trial of Murder and other Felony Offences in Newfoundland
William Keen came to Newfoundland in 1704 and became a prominent St. John’s businessman. He developed extensive commercial interests in Greenspond, Bonavista and on the Petit Nord generally. He was an effective proponent for legal reform in the period following 1715 and was appointed Chief Magistrate at St. John’s in 1729 and a Commissioner of the Court of Oyer & Terminer in 1750. The presentation will focus on the time period 1750 – 1754 and the trial of serious felony offences in Newfoundland in this period, including trials for: murder, rape, assault causing grievous bodily harm and break, enter & theft.
Biographical Note: Christopher P. Curran. K.C. has had an extensive career in public service in Newfoundland and Labrador. He held positions as Deputy Minister of Justice, Registrar of the Supreme Court, and High Sheriff of Newfoundland. He retired from public service in 2012. He and his wife Beverley spend their winters at Topsail, Conception Bay and their summers at Branch, St. Mary’s Bay.
FHSNL website: www.fhsnl.ca