Acquired Territory
The Loyalist Mohawk Exclusive Use and Enjoyment of the Grand River
In 1779, the Crown pledged the Loyalist Mohawk land secured to them and their posterity forever. Five years later, that pledge became the Haldimand Proclamation. It has never been extinguished — and it has never been registered. This book tells that story, and the case now before the courts to close the gap.
About the Book
A constitutional history and guide to the affidavit of Benjamin Doolittle UE
The Haldimand Proclamation of 1784 set apart the Grand River — six miles on each side, source to mouth — for the exclusive use and enjoyment of the Mohawk Nation and their posterity forever. That covenant was never extinguished. It was constitutionalized under section 109 of the Constitution Act, 1867: Crown-derived territory, distinct from Aboriginal title.
This book is the public companion to the affidavit filed in support of the Application for Writ of Mandamus before the Ontario Superior Court of Justice — seeking an order compelling the Director of Titles to register that interest, 242 years on.
Live Proceedings
Divisional Court Judicial Review
Due June 27, 2026
Arising out of BR26001881. A related but separate proceeding.
Constitutional Hearing, BR26001881
September 1, 2026
Ontario Court of Justice, Brantford. Separate from the mandamus application this book accompanies.
Six Nations v. Canada, Phase 1
Opens October 5, 2026
A separate action under section 35, brought by a different party.
About the Author
Benjamin Doolittle UE
Secretary-General, Mohawk Nation of Grand River Secretariat. Sixth great-grandson of Colonel Joseph Brant (Thayendanegea) UEL. Editor, Two Row Times.
The Haldimand Proclamation has waited two hundred and forty-two years for an administrative system to do what it was already obligated to do. Someone has to stand in front of a court and make the closing of that gap the only available outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this book a companion to?
The affidavit of Benjamin Doolittle UE, sworn in support of the Application for Writ of Mandamus seeking an order compelling the Director of Titles to register the Haldimand interest.
Is this the same case as Six Nations v. Canada?
No. That action asserts collective rights under section 35, brought by a different party. This book addresses a distinct, Crown-derived interest under section 109.
What is “Acquired Territory”?
The precise constitutional term for land a sovereign acquires by formal act and re-grants by sovereign instrument — protected under UNDRIP Article 26(2).