John Ward (loyalist)

John Ward (born c. 1740, died 1793) was an American Loyalist during the American Revolutionary War. He was a prominent landowner and merchant in New Rochelle, New York, prior to the war.

Ward’s loyalty to the British Crown led him to actively support the British war effort. He raised and commanded a company of Loyalist militia, often referred to as "Ward's Company," which operated in Westchester County, New York. These Loyalist units engaged in skirmishes and raids against Patriot forces and civilian populations suspected of supporting the rebellion. Their activities were often associated with the "Neutral Ground" of Westchester County, a region characterized by significant Loyalist and Patriot activity and constant conflict.

Following the British defeat at Yorktown in 1781 and the eventual signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783, Ward, like many Loyalists, faced the prospect of persecution and confiscation of his property by the victorious Patriots. He chose to emigrate to British territory, settling in Nova Scotia, Canada.

In Nova Scotia, Ward received land grants from the British government as compensation for his losses in America. He attempted to rebuild his life and business in the new colony, but his experiences during the war had a lasting impact. The exact details of his post-war activities and death are not fully documented.

Ward's story is representative of the experiences of many Loyalists during the American Revolution, who faced difficult choices and ultimately paid a significant price for their allegiance to the British Crown. His actions were seen as treasonous by the Patriots, but he and others like him believed they were upholding their duty to their king and country. He remains a figure of historical significance, illustrating the divisions and complexities of the American Revolution.