1 David Willson

David Willson (1778-1866) was a preacher with the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) in Upper Canada (Ontario) who left to lead a new denomination called the Children of Peace, or Davidites. Willson immigrated to Canada from New York in 1801, settling in East Gwillimbury, and soon joined the Monthly Meeting at Upper Yonge Street (today, Newmarket). In 1812, Willson was expelled from the Friends for his interpretation of the Bible and desire to include music in religious services. He was joined by a number of followers, called Davidites, and established the Children of Peace in nearby Hope (today, Sharon in East Gwillimbury). Services were initially held at Willson’s farm until a meeting house was constructed in 1819. Willson became a staunch supporter of political reform in Upper Canada, challenging the reservation of clergy lands for the Anglican Church. His passion for music had a major impact on the Davidites, who became well-known musicians and established the first civilian band in Upper Canada. After Willson’s death in 1866, the membership and activity of the Children began to diminish, with the last service held at the Sharon Temple in 1899.

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