During the 18th century, a man of great enterprise, intelligence and geniality built out of the wilds of America a great estate. He went on to become one of the foremost men of his age. His name was Sir William Johnson, 1st Baronet of New York.

As Superintendent of Indian Affairs, his fortune enabled him to build upon his friendship and respect with the Native Peoples and thusly, allowed him to prove his devotion to the King. Sir William not only built a thriving community but also a respected and powerful family.

His passing in 1774 left the vast estate to his son, Sir John Johnson. Sir John honoured his father's memory with continued service to the crown. Due to this loyalty, Sir John was limited in his enjoyment of his estate. The turbulent times of 1775 required men to choose their sides and in Sir John's case it was clear. He was a King's man.

The target of greedy and violent rebels who had long fostered a jealousy of the Johnson power in New York, Sir John was forced to flee for his life to the safety of loyal Canada. During earlier and happier times, Sir John had married one of New York City's prominent belles, Lady Mary (Polly) Watts. The match was not only a powerful family alliance but initially a happy one as Lady Johnson was to produce several children.

During the turmoil of 1776 Lady Johnson was to become a tragic heroine. Arrested on suspicion, having committed no crime whatsoever, the pregnant Lady Johnson and her two children were taken into custody by the rebels. Desperate and fearing the worst, she managed to escape during the cold of Winter. Her adventures eventually brought her to safety but in the effort she lost the baby she had given birth to in captivity.

In honour of this remarkable lady, one of the forgotten loyalist heroines of 18th century America, the ladies of the King's Royal Yorkers dedicate one day a year to her memory. Polly Johnson day is celebrated with beautiful gowns and genteel impressions of the Revolutionary period of the 18th century. Gowns are researched and painstakingly constructed in as authentic a fashion as possible. Each proud member sports their gowns while enjoying the grace of what life must have been like for young Lady Mary Watts.

Please enjoy the images and a window into the elegant past.