Gilbert Julius Anderson - Canada to North Dakota

Anyone come across Gilbert Julius Anderson (Born 1859, Nova Scotia, Canada)?He married Mary McDermaid (born 1861, Prince Edward Island, Canada).Their son, Charles Cowan Anderson was born in Lisbon, North Dakota in 1886.Other children include Randolf, Byrde and Henry Anderson...and another child. Charles Cowan is my "blood" great grandfather.However, we have lost touch with the family due to an adoption. Any information or research pointers on "how you do it in Canada" would be appreciated.I'm new at this.