^.^ v -7* ** LP 9 1 <■ .^ ^ t, -J .0w c> V .^ ^0^ .0 t> r. ,^ *j^ o •^ r t<« \r ^ o^ ; 4 o ,* 6 ... v™" ^ .,. *<. • ^ .. % -t> «*•_ A. . . 5 . > "oV" <* v / .-it /iSfe j ^v * "* • V,** *Wa\ V,** /i^fe*' ROSS ARMS. \ ROSSIANA Papers and Documents Relating to the History and Genealogy of the Ancient and Noble House of ROSS of Ross-shire, Scotland, and its Descent from the Ancient Earls of Ross, together with the Descent of the Ancient and Historic Family of READ from Rede of Troughend, Reade of Barton Court, Berks, and Read of Delaware. Also some account of the RELATED FAMILIES of Meredith, Cadwalader, Carpenter, Pumpelly, Drake, Carron d'Allon- dans, Foras and Ward, and the New England and Mayflower Families of Allerton, Bradford, Cook, Cushman, Freeman, Marshall, Warren and Waterman, together with articles on Ancient Free- masonry, the Knights of the Amaranth and Knights of Albion. By Major Harmon Pumpelly Read, f. R. g. S., Member of the Historical Society of New York and the Archivio Storico Gentilizio of Italy. Being a compilation of Original Documents found in the Archives of the Late General John Meredith Read, Original Articles by the Author and Com- piler, and Articles already published, including the Descent of the Earls of Ross by the Late Francis Nevile Reid, Esq. ALBANY, N.Y., 1908. - LIBRARY of CONGRESS Two Couies Received FEB 20 lboy Copyrlfc-nt Entry CLASS al XXC, No, Z.-2-5 ! 2-tf COPY 8, 1 Copyright, 1908 By Harmon Pumpelly Read Press of The Argus Co., Printers, Albany, N. Y. 1908. Descendants of the Earls of Ross in Scotland. TO MY WIFE, fRrs. iKargurritr iir (Harnm Erafc, THIS VOLUME IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED. ROSSIANA Contents. xvii ILLUSTRATIONS. Arms of Ross Frontispiece Earl of Ross's March 6 Balnagown Castle 9 Ancient stone carving at Daan House 84 Tusculum, seat of Hon. John Ross 168 Residence of Hon. George Ross at Lancaster, Pa 169 Troughend . 197 Tablet in Elsdon Church 198 Ancient Library of Merton College 200 Elsdon Church 209 Redesdale 203 Elsdon Castle 211 Ruins of Barton Court 237, 238 Shipton Court 246 Horn of Nigel, the Forester of Borstall 252 Silver tankard of Colonel John Read ( 1688-1754) 266 Gravestone of Colonel John Read ( 1688-1754) 267 Reading table, candlesticks and chair of Colonel John Read (1688-1754) . . 268 Sword of Gunning Bedford 269 Silver service of Hon. George Read (1733-1798) 278 Read Mansion on Delaware Bay 279 Decoration of the Order of the Cincinnati 281 Discovery of Alliance and Morris Islands by Commodore Thomas Read. 282 U. S. frigate Alliance 283 Silver service of Colonel James Read (1743-1822) , 284 Residence of Hon. George Read. 2d (1765-1836) 292 Heraldic achievement of General John Meredith Read as a Knight Grand Cross of the Redeemer 303 Masonic jewel and eagle of the 33d degree 309 Grand Cross of the Redeemer ^2g Castor, tankard, server and coffee pot of Reese Meredith 329 Old Carpenter House, Philadelphia 340 Harmon Pumpelly house at Owego, N. Y 365 Keys to Masons' marks . " 391-3 Early seal of Rosicrucian Masonry 399 Decoration of the Order of Hie Amaranth 402 PORTRAITS — (Steel). Ross, Rev. George, M. A. (1679-1754) 154 Ross, Hon. George, the Sig ler ( 1730-1779) 168 Read, Colonel John, of Delaware (1688-1756) 264 xviii Contents. Read, Hon. George, the signer (1733-1798) -7« Read, Commodore, Thomas ( 1740- 1788) 280 Read, Colonel James ( 1743-1822) 284 Read. Hon. John ( 1769-1854) 206- - I Read, Chief Justice John Meredith (1797-1874 ) 3°o • Read, General John Meredith ( 1837-1896) 302 . ' Read, General John Meredith, in court costume 306 «- | Read, Mrs. John Meredith (18 -18 ) 31O" ' PORTRAITS — (Process). Duchess of Sutherland r 5° Ross, Hon. John (1714-1776) 166 Ross, Hon. George, the Signer ( 1730- 1779> l ~ 2 Gurney, Mrs. 1 tenry ( nee Catherine Ross ) i7' v Reade, Sir Compton (1626-1679), first Baronet of Shipton Court 254 Penyston, Lady, daughter of Sir Compton Reade 255 Reade, Sir Thomas (1684-1752). fourth Baronet of Shipton Court 256 Reade, General George (1687-1756), grandson of Sir Compton Reade.... 257 Read, Sir John (1691-1712). third and lasl Baronet of Brocket Hall 260 Read. General Meredith (1837-1896). at the age of 23. as Adjutant-General of the State of New York 3°4 Read. Major Harmon Pumpelly ( [860- ) 3H Read, Colonel John Meredith < 1869- ) 312 Pumpelly. Hon. Harmon (170; iXSji 364 Read. Mrs. Harmon Pumpelly 373 Foras, Bartolbmeo di (1362) 37° Foras, Count Amedee 377 CO ATS-OF- ARMS —(Steel). Read. General Meredith 1 [837- [896) 3 '4. Read, General Meredith (1837-1896), as Knight Grand Cross of the Redeem r 3 ' -' Pumpelly 35§ Carron d'Allondans, shown in 1> >< »k-plate }7- COATS-OF- ARMS — (Process). Ross Fn mtispiece. Ross of Shandwick 3 1 King's Escutcheon, or Arm- of David II. of Scotland 83 Ross, shown in ancient stone carving at Daan House 84 Earls of Ross §5 Alexander Stewart. Earl of Buchan 86 Ross of Balnagown 88 Ross, Hon. John I 1714-1776). shown in book-plate 167 United States of America l 9 l Rede of Troughend. shown on tablet in Elsdon Church 198 Read of Delaware, shown on gravestone of Colonel John Read 267 Contents. xix Read, Hon. George, the Signer (1733-1798), shown in book-plate 276' Read, General Meredith (1837-1896). shown in heraldic achievement as Knight Grand Cross of the Redeemer 303 ■ Drake family 3^7 BOOK-PLATES. Ross, Hon. John (1714-1776) 167 Read, Hon. George (1733-1798) 276 Read, General Meredith (1837- 1896), steel 31 2 Read, Mrs. Harmon Pumpelly, steel 372 •> FAMILY CHARTS. Earls of Ross, descendants of 2 - '■'. Ross, Rev. George, descendants of 159 • '> Ross, Hon. George, descendants of 169. x Baronets of Shipton Court 2 53«- Read, Colonel John, of Delaware, descendants of 269 Mayflower and New England families 345 *>/ Marshall family 348* \ Pumpelly family 358 " \ Drake, Roberts and Learning families 366 Ward family of Maryland 378 ANCIENT EARLS OF ROSS. THE descent of the Ross and Read families from the ancient Earls of Ross, as shown in the following pages, is derived from the Ross and Read muniments. The pedigree from Malcolm, first Earl of Ross, to David Ross of Balblair, ancestor of the American or Read Rosses, is largely from the very accurate and valuable account of the descendants of the Earls of Ross, published by the late Francis Nevile Reid, Esq., himself a descendant in the female line. This account of the family appeared, in 1889, 1890, 1891, 1892 and 1893, in The Scottish Antiquary; or, Northern Notes and Queries. edited by the Rev. A. W. Cornelius Hallen, M. A., Edinburgh. In his intro- duction to the work, which was accompanied by a well-planned key chart, a copy of which appears herewith, Mr. Reid said : In these tables there are probably many omissions, and possibly many errors; it is, however, hoped that their publication will bring to light fresh material, and enable what is faulty to be corrected. A life passed chiefly abroad has rendered it impossible for me to consult authorities which are easily accessible to others. I am anxious to thank all those friends who have given me during many years of research so much valuable assistance. In later publications Mr. Reid noted many corrections, and these changes, as well as many corrections by the author, have been made in the account as printed here. Mr. Reid was the son of the late Mr. Nevile Reid of Runnymede, by his second wife, Caroline, third daughter of the seventh Lord Napier. He was born in 1827, and married in 1859 Sophia, youngest daughter of Sir Thomas Gibson Carmichael, seventh Baronet. He died on the 12th of July, 1892, at the ancient palace of Ravello, three miles from Amalfi. Mr. Reid purchased this historical residence many years ago. It covered several acres, and he retained the Tower, the Saracenic Court and a large portion of the main building, which became under the auspices of Mr. and Mrs. Reid, the home of elegant comfort and hospitality. " Mr. Reid," says The Scottish Antiquary, " threw himself into works of utility and beneficence. He brought water from the mountains to the village of Ravello, cultivated lemons, walnuts, olives and vines, introducing new species from France ; while luxuriant gar- dens descended towards the sea by many terraces. Much was done for the district ; a carriage road was made, whereas formerly only mules and por- tantinas could approach the house. The fragments of marble which had formed the beautiful gallery of the cathedral were recovered and replaced and the cathedral restored, for which Mr. Reid received the thanks of the Italian Government. Not only were the poor attended to, but young men were educated, and much employment given. He died beloved and respected by high and low. The record of such a life affords consolation to those from whom it has been taken." 2 Rossiana. These few lines are scarcely an adequate tribute to one who, in addition to his public services, has placed under lasting obligations all the descendants of the Earls of Ross. EARLS OF ROSS. I. 1 Malcolm, Earl of Ross, had a mandate from Malcolm, King of Scots, to protect the monks of Dunfermline, dated at Clackmannan A. D. 1153-65 (Reg. de Dunfermlyn, p. 25). He was of the Celtic family of O'Bealan or Builton, as Sir Robert Gordon writes it (Hist, of Earls of Sutherland). There never was an Earl who bore the surname of Ross, but when the title passed to descendants in the female line, the Lairds of Balnagown assumed the name as male representatives of the Earls. Malcolm must have lived also during the reign of William the Lion, 1165-1214. 2. Ferquhard, second Earl of Ross, founded the Abbey of Feme in the parish of Edderton in 1230, and, dying about 1251, was buried there; the stone effigy of a warrior is said to mark his grave. 2 The Abbey was not long after its foundation removed to a site a few miles distant; hence it was often called Abbacia de Nova Farina. In 1597 part of the Abbey lands was erected into the temporal lordship of the Barony of Geanies, and in 1607 the remaining lands were annexed by Act of Parliament to the Bishopric of Ross (Statist. Account of Scotland). In 1237 he was witness to an agreement between the Kings of England and Scotland, in presence of Odo, the Legate (Foedera i. 233), and in 1244 he was one of those who informed the Pope of the treaty of peace made with the King of Eng- land (Mat. Paris Chron. Maj. iv. 383). Earl Ferquhard had 3. William, his successor. (See below.) 209. Malcolm, mentioned in the writs of the Lovat estate, No. 77, con- firmation by Alexander III. of the donation made by Malcolm, son of Ferquhard, Earl of Ross, to William de Byseth of the lands of Craigarn, 24th December and 12 of reign (Ant. Notes, C. F. Macintosh, Inverness. 1865). (1.) Euphemia. married Walter de Moravia, Knight, Lord of Du.fus, 1224-62. (2.) Christina, said to have been third wife of Olaus, fifth King of Man and the Isles, who died 1237. 3. William, third Earl of Ross. " Wm. son of Earl Ferquhard wit." Sept. 1232 (Cartulary of Moray). He obtained a grant of the Isles of Skye lumbers in black-face type refer to corresponding numbers in the Key Chart herewith. 2 Mr. Skene (Celtic Scot. vol. i, p. 483, vol. iii, p. 78) ignores Earl Malcolm, and makes Ferquhard the first Earl of Ross. He states that the territory belonging to the Celtic monastery of Applecross, founded in the seventh century by the Irish Saint Maelrubha, lying between the district of Ross and the western sea, from Loch Carron to Loch Ewe and Loch Maree, had passed into the hands of a family of lay abbots, called Sagarts or Priests of Applecross. This Ferquhard Macinsagart, son of the lay possessor, was thus a powerful Highland Chief. When Alexander II., soon after his accession (1214-49), was forced to suppress an insurrection in Moray and Ross, Fer- quhard, siding with him, seized the insurgent leaders and beheaded them. He presented their heads to the King, 15th June, 1215, was knighted and created Earl of Ross, which thus became a feudal Earldom held of the Crown. Is Earl Malcolm a myth? DESCENDANTS OF GEORGE ROSS, THE "SIGNER," GRANDSON OF DAVID ROSS, OF BALBLAIR. 1 George Ross Mary Bird George Ross (The " Signer")=ANN I, 134c Aldie, liii., liiii., Iv. Allan, Little. 141, 142, lxv. Allan, Easter Little, Ixvi., lxvii. Ankerville. 97, 98. Ardgay, 74. Balblair, 197a, 197/>. Balmachy, 191, 194. 195, 196a. 196(.. Kalnagown, 9, 10, 11, 12. 13. 14. 15, 10, 17. IS, 19, 20. Balon, 205. Brealangwell, 88. Cromarty, xix. Culnahall, 190. Cunlich, xiii., xvi., xviii., xix.. Ixxix., lxxx. Daan, Little, 110, 11C. Drugillie, 123. Drumgelly, 176. Easterfearn. 100, 102, 103, 105, 106. 107. Eye, lxvii., Ixviii. Gladfield, 91, 92. Invercharron, 74, 75. 76. 77. 79, SO, 81, 82, S3, 84. Inverchassley, 50, 51. 52, 53. 54. 55, 56. 57. 58. 59, 60. 61, 62. Kerse, 157, 158. Logie Easter, 181, 182, 1S3. Pitkerie, xii., xxii. Pitkerie, Nether, xxiiii.. xxv., xxvi. Pitmaduthie, 126. Priesthill, 136a, 13W, 136r, 136J, 136c Ranyes, 149. Rarichies, 8. Rosehill, lvii. Ross, Earl of, 1, 2. 3. 4, 5, 6. Shandwick, 143, 144. 143. 146, 152. 154. 155, 156, 157. 171. Skeldon, Berbice, 159. Tarrel, Little, i., ii., iii.. iiii., v., vi., vii. Tolly, 130. The connection of the following branches of ti . ^^ aa ■ amu y wim mi-- main stem is at present doubtful. Sometimes there are only two or three generations, and then the family disappears; some- times, as in ' Morangie,' there are many generations: i of Kindeace, 1st family. Logie. Ballone. Midgany. ' Morangie. Mulderg. Rives. Inverchassley.lst family ' Pitcalzeane. Meddat. ' Tutintarroch Ross of Risollis. Pittogarty. Kirkskeath. Midfearn. Ballintraid. Ballivat. Kincardine. Andrew, provost of 1 am William, bail! ' : of T Etc etc., / Ancient Earls of Ross. 3 and Lewis from Alexander III, and died at Earles Allane — May 1274 ( Kalender of Feme). 1 having married Jean, daughter of William Comyn, Earl of Buchan, by his first wife. He was succeeded by his son and heir 4. William, fourth Earl of Ross. In 1283 he was one of the nobles who acknowledged the Maid of Norway as heir to the Crown (Acts of Parlia- ment). He sided alternately with the English and Scotch parties; did homage to Edward I, as overlord in a chapel at Berwick, 1st August 1251 (Bain's Cal. Doc. Scot. ii. No. 508). He was one of the auditors elected by Bruce and Baliol at the trial before Edward I. in 1292 (Palgrave, Scot. Rec. No. 18, p. 52). His seal is attached to one of the writings deposited in the Exchequer concerning the fealty done by John Baliol to Edward (Bain's Cal. ii. No. 660). In 1292 his lands in Argyll were formed into the Sheriffdom of Skye (Acts of Parliament). In 1296 the Scottish army, under the Earls of Ross, Menteith, and Athole, made an incursion into England, devastating the country. They succeeded in occupying the important castle of Dunbar. Edward determined to recover it, and sending a strong force to attack the Scots, the armies met on the high ground above Dunbar, when the Scots were utterly defeated with a loss of 10.000 men and many prisoners. On the day after the battle, 21st April 1296, Edward came to Dunbar, when the castle surrendered at discretion. Among the numerous prisoners was the Earl of Ross, who was sent a prisoner to the Tower, where the Sheriffs were ordered to pay six-pence a day for his maintenance (Hist. Scot. Tytler, vol. i, p. 99, Stevenson's Hist. Doc. ii. 27). His eldest son Hugh obtained a safe conduct to visit him 28th August 1297 (Hist. Doc. Scot. vol. ii.). On or about 29th September 1303, an order for his escort and guard, with minute directions for his journey, was issued. He reached Perth 12th December, where he remained with the Prince of Wales until 3d February 1303-4, when he was sent home. In 1305 he was appointed Warden beyond the Spey. In 1306 Bruce's Queen and daughter. Princess Marjory, on the advance of the English army, took refuge in the girth or immunity of St. Duthace at Tain, but the Earl, violating the sanctuary, delivered them up to the English ; they were sent prisoners to England, and not liberated until 1312 (Foedera). In 1308 Bruce and the Earl were reconciled at Auldearn ; he did homage and was infeft in the lands of Dingwall and Ferncrosky (Acts of Pari. Rob. hid., p. 16, No. 17). In 1312 he sealed at Inverness an agreement between the ^iogs of Scotland and Norway, and in 1320 he concurred in the baron's r) '-"" asserting the independence of Scotland (Acts of Parliament) . er to the j. 0y ^ 3th January ^322]^ (Kalender of Feme), having married uied at Delny, 2> a l ac b' w ^° warmly supported the English party. P lemia — __ w ' s imprisonment Edward granted her maintenance from ,, ""^kfrshushiuad He left issue -5. Hugh, his heir. (See bclozv.) 207. Sir John, who married Margaret Comyn, second daughter and co -heiress of John. Earl of Buchan. He had with her half of the Earl of Buchan's heritage in Scotland (Rob. hid. 2. 44) ; dying s. p., the lands passed to his nephew, William, Earl of Ross. a To the Rev. Dr. Joass I owe a most careful transcript of the Obit notices of the name of Ross, from the Kalender of Ferae MS. on parchment at Dunrobin Castle. — F. N. Reid. •%' -J 4 Rossiana. 208. Sir Walter, who was a scholar at Cambridge 1306, and 4th June 1307 received a gift of 10 marks from King Edward (Cal. Doc. Scot. vol. ii). He was the dearly loved friend of Edward Bruce, and fell at Bannockburn 23d June 1314. " Sir Edward the King's brother Loved, and had in sik daintie That as himself him loved he." — Barbour. (1.) Isabella, obtained a dispensation from Pope John XXII., dated at Avignon 1st June 1317. to marry Edward Bruce, Earl of Carrick. conne:ted within third and fourth degrees of affinity. He fell at the battle of Dundalk, .?. p. /., 5th October 13 iS. being styled King of Ireland. The marriage probably never took place. The mother of his illegitimate son Alexander, afterwards Earl of Car- rick. was Isabel, sister of David de Strabolgi, Earl of Athole. (New Peerage, Note, G. Burnett.) (2.) Dorothea, married Torquil M'Leod, second Baron of Lewis P. 5. Hugh, fifth Earl of Ross. By a somewhat questionable exercise of Prerogative. Robert I. gave to Sir Hugh de Ross, Knight, son and heir of William, Earl of Ross, the Vice-County and Burgh of Crumbathy, 5th December 1316 (Exch. Rolls, Scot. vol. i). He obtained by various charters from the King (Rob. Ind. 2, 56, 58, 59, 60) the lands of Skye, Strathglass, Strathconan. etc. At the battle of Halidon Hill, near Berwick, fought on St. Magdalen's Day. 20th February 1333-4. he led the reserve to attack the wing which Baliol commanded, was driven back and slain 1 ( Tytlcr. vol. ii, p. 29). The English found on his body the shirt of St. Duthace, supposed to possess miraculous powers, and restored it to the sanctuary at Tain. 2 He married first in 1308 Lady Maud Bruce, sister to the King (Chart. Rob. Ind. 2, 49), " Hugonis de Ros and Mauld, sister to the King, the lands of Name cum burgo." , By her he had 6. William, his successor. (See below. ) 7. John, son of late Hugh, Earl of Ross, died 27th May 1364 (Kalen- dcr of Feme). (1.) Marjory, married, as second wife, before 1334, Malise, Earl of Strathern. Caithness, and Orkney. The Earl was attainted in 1335 and his honours forfeited. He died ^. p. m. before 1357- He granted to William, Earl of Ross, his brother-in-law, the marriage of his daughter, Isabel, declaring her heiress to the Earldom of Caithness. She was given in marriage to Sir William St. Clair, and was mother of Sir Henry St. Clair. Earl of Orkney (Lib. Ins. Miss. p. 43, Rob. Ind. New Peerage, G. E. C). The Earl married, secondly, Margaret, daughter of Sir David Graham of Old Montrose, dispensation granted at Avignon by Pope John XXII., 24th November 1329, on the discovery, long after they were married and had issue. 'On 1st of May, 1362, Robert de Lawedis, Lord of Ouarelwood, founded a chapel in the cathedral of Moray for his own soul, and especially for the soul of the late Hugh. Earl of Ross, his lord (Cartul. of Moray). -Duthace, Bishop of Ross, was of noble birth, and dying 1249, was enrolled among the Saints Sth March (Keith's Bishops Scot.). Ancient Earls of Ross. 5 of a canonical impediment, and legitimating the children (Note, G. Burnett). She obtained another dispensation, 13th April 1341. to marry John de Barclay, and thirdly, 21st November 1348, to marry John de Moravia. By her first husband she had 8. Hugh of Rarichies, 1 of whom hereafter as first of Balnagown. (1.) Euphemia, married, first, John Randolph, third Earl of Moray, who fell at the Battle of Durham, s. p., 17th October, 1346. She married, secondly, as second wife, Robert, Earl of Strathern, afterwards King Robert II. Dispensation granted by Pope In- nocent VI., at Avignon, 2d May, 1355, for the third degree of affinity and the fourth of consanguinity. The affinity is clear, the Earl of Strathern and the Earl of Moray being descended in the third degree from the Earl and Countess of Carrick. The relationship by consanguinity has yet to be discovered. The King died 13th May, 1390, and the Queen , 1372. With daughters they left two sons, (1.) David Steward, Earl of Stratherne, created before Novem- ber, 1375, Earl of Caithness. He died before 1389, leav- ing an only daughter, Euphemia, Countess of Stratherne and Caithness. (2.) Walter Steward, on the resignation of his niece Euphemia, became Earl of Caithness, created about 1409 Earl of Athole. He married, before 19th October, 1378, Mar- garet, only daughter and heiress of Sir David de Barclay of Brechin, by whom he had two sons, David, who died in England, v. p., leaving a son Robert, who joined his grandfather in the murder of James I., at Perth, and was executed at Edinburgh, March, 1437, a few days before his grandfather. His second son was Alan, Earl of Caithness, who died unmarried, 1431. (2.) Janet, married, first, Monymusk of that Ilk, and secondly, Sir Alexander Murray of Abercairney ; an indenture was executed at Perth, 24th November, 1375, between Queen Euphemia and her son, Earl David of the one part, and Alexander Murray of Drumsergorth of the other part, agreeing that Alexander Murray should marry Lady Janet de Mony-Muske, sister of the Queen, who with the Earl promised to assist him in recovering his in- heritance, and that Walter Murray, brother of Alexander, should if he pleased, marry the elder daughter of Lady Janet. (Ander- son's Dip. Scot. p. lvii, Earldom af Strathern, Nicholas.) The seals of the Queen and of her son were affixed to the indenture. 1 George Crawfurd, historiographer of Scotland, records that Hugh of Rarichies, first Laird of Balnagown, was the son of Hugh, fifth Earl of Ross, by his first wife, Lady Maud Bruce, sister of Robert II. Rev. Compton Reade, in his " Record of the Redes," makes the same claim, thus showing that the Line of Balnagown came direct from the Earls of Ross and the Royal house of Scotland. (See " Read Descent from the Royal House of Scotland," post.) 6 Rossi an a. (3.) Lilias, married William Urquhart, heritable Sheriff of Cromarty, who succeeded 1314. (Titles of Urquharts of Cromarty, Antiq. Notes, C. F. Macintosh.) 6. William, sixth Earl of Ross and Lord of Skye, Justiciar of Scotland north of the Forth, called in a charter of 1374 " frater regis," was in Norway when his father died, and did not take possession of his Earldom until 1336. In 1346 King David assembled an army at Perth to invade England, but the expedition began badly, for the Earl of Ross murdered Ronald of the Isles in the monastery of Elcho, and returned with his men to their mountains (Exch. Rolls Scot. vol. i.). The soldiers of the Isles also dispersed, and many of the Highlanders followed them. The King advanced into England, and, T~th October, 1346. the battle of Durham was fought, and he was taken prisoner and sent to the Tower. The King was liberated in 1357 and held a Parliament at Scone. Nine years later the northern lords had thrown off their allegiance, and refused to contribute their rate towards the payment of the King's ransom and other burdens. Among the principal leaders were the Earl of Ross and Hugh, his brother. The Earl remained absent from Parliament in 1366, 1367, but in 1368 was obliged to find security to keep the peace (Acts of Parliament ). and engaged within his territories to administer justice, and assist the officers in collecting the taxes. (Tytler, vol. ii., p. 51.) In 1350 the Earl, with the approval of his sister, Marjory, Countess of Caithness and Orkney, and on condition of obtaining the King's consent, appointed his brother Hugh his heir (Bain. Chart. Orig. par. Scot. vol. ii. pt. ii. p. 487). On the death of his uncle, Sir John de Ross, he inherited half of the lands of the Earldom of Buchan {Acts of Parliament ). King David favoured the marriage of the Earl's daughter. Euphemia. with Sir Walter de Lesley without her father's sanction, and in 1370, probably remembering the Earl's conduct at Elcho, compelled him to resign all his possessions for reinfeftment. Therefore, a new charter was granted of the Earldom of Ross and Lordship of Skye, and of all his lands, except those which belonged to the Earldom of Buchan. first, to the heirs-male of his body; whom failing, secondly, to Sir Walter de Lesley. Euphemia, his spouse, and their heirs; whom failing, thirdly, to his youngest daughter. Joanna or Janet, and her heirs. After his brother Hugh's death he addressed a Querimonia, dated 24th June 1371 (Antiq. of Aberdeen, Jos. Robertson) to Robert II. in which he styles himself " humilis nepos," complaining of the way in which all his possessions, and also those of his brother Hugh, lying within Buchan, had been taken from him by force and fraud, and given by the late King to Sir Walter de Lesley. This complaint met with no result ; a few months later he died at Delny. 9th February 1371-72 (Kalender of Feme), his only son, William, having died before him. In 1354 his son was proposed as one of the hostages for the payment of the King's ransom (Acts of Parliament), but in August. 1357 he was too ill to travel to England, and must have died before the end of the year. Therefore, in virtue of the new charter, the Earl's two daughters became heirs-portioners. William, Earl of Ross, John de Berclay, Thomas de Moravia (brother of the grantor) and others were witnesses to a charter by John de Moravia, granting certain lands in the barony of Awath to his " consanguines," Andrew de Ros, son of the late THE KARI, OF ROSS'S MARCH. Ancient Earls of Ross. 7 William de Ros, "militis." In the old copy on parchment of the charter the date is wanting. (1.) Euphemia. (See below.) (2.) Joanna or Janet, who died before 1400. having married in 1375 Sir Alexander Fraser of Cowie, who, 4th June 1375, obtained a charter from Sir Walter Lesley in favour of him and his wife of the lands of Philorth and others, in compensation for their lands in Ross (confirm. Robert III. 28th October 1405). Sir Alexander was ancestor of the Barons Saltoun. (See Lord Saltoun, Frasers of Philorth). (1.) Euphemia, Countess of Ross, married first, before 1365, Sir Walter, second son of Sir Andrew Lesley, assuming j'u. ux. the title of Earl of Ross ; he died about 1379. The Countess was forced to marry, secondly, Sir Alexander Stewart, " Wolf of Badenoch," fourth son of Robert II, by whom she had no issue; dying 24th July 1394, he was buried at Dunkeld. He received a royal charter of all his wife's lands, 22d July 1382, and, 24th July, another charter styles him Earl of Buchan. The Countess became Abbess of Elcho, and, dying about 1394, was buried at Fortrose. By her first husband she left, (1.) Alexander. (See below.) (2.) Margaret. (See post.) (1.) Alexander Lesley, Earl of Ross, married Isabel, eldest daughter of Robert Steward, Earl of Fife and Duke of Albany, Regent of Scotland, third son of Robert II. The Earl died at Dingwall, 1402, leaving an only daughter, Euphemia, Countess of Ross, who became a nun. She illegally resigned the Earldom to her maternal uncle, Sir John Steward, who thereupon styled himself Earl of Buchan and Ross. He fell at the battle of Verneuil, 17th August 1424. (2) Lady Margaret Lesley, on the resignation or death of her niece Euphemia, was the next heir to the Earldom. She had married Donald M'Donald, Lord of the Isles, who now claimed the Earldom in her right. This claim being refused, he protested against the injustice, and, gathering a numerous force, came through the northern mountains and descended into the flat country near Harlaw, where he met, 24th July 141 1, a small force under the Earl of Mar, illegitimate son of the " Wolf of Badenoch," by whom he was defeated, — a great gain to the Lowlanders, for, had he won the battle, he would have been Lord of about half of Scotland (Burton, . Hist. Scot. vol. iii. p. 100). He died at Isla about 1423; the Countess was imprisoned on the Island of Inchcolm, in the Firth of Forth, and died about 1429, leaving, with other issue, (1.) Alexander. (See belozv.) (2.) Hugh, ancestor of Lord Macdonald. (3.) Celestine, ancestor of Lord Macdonnell and Arras. Extinct. (4.) Margaret, married John, eighth Earl of Sutherland. She was nearly drowned in crossing the ferry at Unes, and, being drawn on shore, was murdered, it is said, at the instigation of the 8 Rossiana. " Laird of Balnagown his daughter," by whom the Earl had two illegitimate sons. 1 Her only daughter, Elizabeth, became Countess of Sutherland, jure sua. (i.) Alexander M'Donald. Earl of Ross and Lord of the Isles. In 1427 the Highland chiefs were summoned to parliament ; among them were Alexander of the Isles and the Countess of Ross, his mother. On presenting themselves they were seized and imprisoned. Alexander was soon after liberated, and the first use he made of his liberty was to devastate the Crown lands with a numerous force. James I. defeated him at Lochaber. 23d July 1429, and he, being driven from place to place, on 27th August presented himself before the high altar of the chapel of Holyrood in presence of the King, Queen, and Court, clad only in his shirt and drawers, and, giving up his sword, sought for mercy. The King spared his life, but confined him for some months in Tantallon, when his mother and he were released and his lands restored. He died at Dingwall 4th May, 1448, having married Elizabeth, daughter of Sir Alexander Seton, Lord of Gordon and Huntly, and leaving, with other issue, (1.) John, Earl of Ross and last Lord of the Isles. In 1456 the King gave him the barony of Kyneward, which, owing to the Earl's minority, had been in the King's hands in ward for three years. (E.vcli. Rolls Scot. vol. vi.). Sasina Com. Rossii de t. de Kyned- ward. James II.. 1456 (Ibid. vol. ix.). In 1462, having made an independent treaty with Edward IV., he was deemed a traitor, and, to avoid forfeiture was forced to cede his lands and titles to the Crown. In the ninth parliament of James III., 4th July 1476, Art. 71 " annexes till his Crown the Earldom of Ross with the pertinents to remain thereat forever * * * it sail not be leiful to his * * * Successors to make Aliena- tion of the said Earldom or any part thereof frae his Crown * * * Saiffand * * * to give the said Earldom till ane of his or their secunde sounes." He was then partially restored, with remainder to his illegitimate sons, being made a Lord of Parliament under the style of John de Isla. Lord of the Isles. This title he finally forfeited in 1494. when he retired to the Abbey of Paisley, where he died s. p. I. about 1498, having married Elizabeth, daughter of James, Lord Livingstone, con- cerning whom there is the following entry in the accounts of the- Lord High Treasurer, vol. i., " 1497, 26 Nov. for ane vnce of sewing silk to the Countess of Ross to the Kingis clathes iiijs." LINE OF BALNAGOWN. 8. Hugh Ross of Rarichies, first of Balnagown. He obtained these and other lands by a grant from his brother. As indicated by the mullet on his seal, he was third son of Hugh, Earl of Ross, being eldest son of the Earl's 1 Isobella, daughter of Alexander Ross, seventh of Balnagown, wife of George Munro of Foulis; her son Alexander Sutherland (the Bastard) opposed service of "brief" in favour of Lady Elizabeth Sutherland, then wife of Sir Adam Gordon, at the Court held at Inverness. 25th July, 1509. io Rossiana. second marriage with Margaret Graham (see ante). On 30th March 1351 he granted the lands of Scatterby and Byth to "Karissimo awunculo nostro Petro de Grame " (Ch. of Conf. Frasers of Philorth, vol. ii. p. 232). On 10th May 1333 Earl Hugh granted to his son Hugh the lands then in the hands of Margaret of Ross by reason of her tierce when it should happen, except certain lands in Aberdeenshire reserved for William his son and heir (Bain. Char. Orig. Par. Scot. vol. ii. pt. ii. p. 486). In 1341 he obtained from his brother, Earl William, the lands of Westray, in 1357 those of Eister Alane, On 1st July 1365 he is styled Lord of Philorth (Rob. Index), which lands he exchanged with the Earl for Wester Ross, Strathglass, and Ellandonan. He died before June 1371, having married Margaret de Barclay. Charter 26th February 1369, David II. to Hugo de Ros and Margaret de Barclay. He had issue, 9. William. (See belozv.) (1.) Jean, married Robert Munro, eighth Baron of Foulis, killed 1369. P- 9. William, second of Balnagown. Confirmation by Robert II. to William, Earl of Ross, of the gift of the lands of Balnagown and others to his late brother Hugh and his son and heir William. Given at Badenoch 1st August 1374 (Great Seal). Confirmation to William de Ross, son and heir of the late Hugh, of the lands of Balnagown, 22d October 1378 (Great Seal). He married Christian, daughter of Lord Livingstone ( Citron. Earls of Ross) ; she is said to have built the Kirk of Alness, or, according to another account, the Bridge of Alness ; their son and heir was, 10. Walter, third of Balnagown, styled in 1398 Walter of Ross, Lord of Rarichies; he received from Alexander Lesley, Earl of Ross, part of Cullys (Bain. Chart.). He married Katherine, daughter of Paul M'Tyre, the freebooter; she received for her dowry the lands of Strathcarron, Strathoy- kell, and Westray. This levier of blackmail was great-grandson of Lady Christina and Olaus, King of Man (see ante) ; on 5th April 1366 Earl William granted him and his heirs by Mary de Grahame the lands of Gerloch, forming part of the Sheriffdom of Skye (Rob. Index) ; the grant was con- firmed by Robert II. (Great Seal). 1 They left issue, a son. 11. Hugh, fourth of Balnagown, is said to have married Janet, daughter of the Earl of Sutherland by Helen Sinclair, daughter of the Earl of Orkney (Chron. of Earls of Ross). At Dunrobin there is no trace of this lady or of the marriage of Hugh Ross ; he had, 12. John. (See belozv.) 140. Hugh, named in the Chron. 141. Mr. William of Little Allan. (See post.) 206. Mr. Thomas, on the resignation of his brother Mr. William, became Sub-dean of Ross and Parson of Rosskeen. As Sub-dean of Ross and Rector of the collegiate church of Tain he witnessed a charter 1487 (Great Seal). x Mr. Skene (Celtic Scot. vol. iii, p. 355,) states that the chronicle mentioning the marriage of Olaus the Black and Christina, daughter of Earl Ferquhard, does not name their supposed three sons, Leod, Gunn and Leandres, that this filiation is certainly- spurious. Paul was related to William the sixth Earl, and in various pedigrees is called grandson of Leandres. Line of Balnagown. n 12. John, fifth of Balnagown, precept by Alexander, Earl of Ross and Lord of the Isles for infefting him as heir to his father Hugh {Bain. Chart.). John of Ross, Laird of Balnagown, was party to a bond (Hist. MS. Rep.). The lands of Little Allan on his resignation were granted by James IV., 18th October 1490, to David Ross, his grandson and apparent heir (Great Seal). He is said to have married Christian, daughter of Torquil Macleod of the Lewes ; he had. 13. Alexander. (See below.) 136a. Mr. Donald of Priesthill. (See post.) 137. Malcolm, named in the Chron.; he was perhaps burgess of Tain and father of William, who died 4th March 1537 (Kal. of F.). 138. Andrew, burgess of Tain (Old MS. Pea 1 .). 139. John, who is said to have married Munro of Tain (Old MS. Ped.). 13. Alexander, sixth of Balnagown, fell at Allt Charrais, with a con- siderable number of the clan, in a fight with the Sutherlands. The Kal. of Feme states, under date i486, June, " Ob Alexr. ross de balnagown, mgri wilhelmi ross, et Vilhelmi ross, angusii de terrel, alexr. terrel. etc. in die scti barnabi apti, aho dhi m°cccc°lxxxvi apud aide charwis undecimo huius." He married Dorothy, daughter of Alexander Sutherland of Duffus. In the MS. at Dunrobin it is stated that " she had the wyt of the field of Aldyharves," and had issue, 14. David. (See below.) (1.) Isobel, married, as first wife, George Munro, tenth of Foulis; their only son, George, was killed with his father, 1452. 14. Sir David, Knight, seventh of Balnagown, married first Helen Keith, daughter of the Laird of Inverugie, " ane guid woman." Charter to him and Helen Keith, his wife, of Wester Rarichies and Culleis 28th October 1490 (Great Seal) ; she died May 1519 (Kal. of F.). He married secondly a daughter of the Duke of Albany, by whom he had no issue. He died 20th May 1527 (Kal. of F.). leaving by his first wife, 15. Walter. (See below.) 74. William of Ardgay. (See post.) 130. Hugh of Achnacloich. (See post.) (1.) Agnes, who married William M'Culloch of Plaids, and died at Hil- ton, 24th April, 1572. (Kal. of Feme.) 15. Walter, eighth of Balnagown, was slain at Tain 12th May 1528 (Kal. of F.), having married Marion, daughter of Sir John James Grant of Grant, by whom he had, 16. Alexander. (See bclozv.) 73. Hugh. (Old MS. Ped.) (1.) Katherine, married John Denune, third of Cadboll, bailie and bur- gess of Tain. (2.) Janet, married, as second wife, Hugh Fraser, fifth Lord Lovat, slain at Lochlochy 1545 — " Hugh Lord Lovat and Janet Ross his wife," 19 July 1536 (Great Seal). 16. Alexander, ninth of Balnagown, on 5th April 1569, signed a bond to be faithful to James VI. and the Regent. He was confined in the Castle of 12 Rossiana. Thomptalloun {Reg. P. Conn.). He died at Ardmore 25th October 1592, buried at Feme, having married, first, Janet, daughter of John, third Earl of Caithness. Charter to him and Janet Sinclair his wife of the lands of Eister Rarichies, 26th September 1546 (Great Seal). He had by her. 1~- George. (See below.) (i) Katherine, "the witch" (see "Witchcraft in Scotland" page 147). she married, as second wife. Robert More Munro of Foulis. who died 4th November 1588, by whom she bad. with four daughters: 1. Geo. Munro of Obsdale. 2. John of Meikill Davanch, who married Beatrix Ross. Sas. 24th Janusry 1607, relict, and now spouse to Andrew Ross of Shandwick. (2.) Agnes (perhaps by first wife), married Duncan Campbell of Boath. (3.) Christian (by first wife?), married Kenneth Mackenzie, third of Dochmaluak, who died 1617, buried at Beauly. He married, secondly, Katherine, daughter of Kenneth Mackenzie of Kin- tail ; she died at Daan 12th April. 1592. was buried at Feme, and, with various daughters, had. 21. Nicholas, first of Pitcalnie. (See post.) 72. Malcolm. In 1580 King James granted him the chaplainry of Cambuscurry for his education. Charter to him of the lands of Cambuscurry 8th August 1598 (Great Seal). Sas. 30th April 1606 on precept from chancery to him for the mill of Morinsche. He died s. p. 1". George, tenth of Balnagown. in May 1560 was infeft in the Lordship of Balnagown on charter by his father (Balnagowy Papers), in 1567 was a student at St. Andrews, had a charter of the lands of Wester Feme, Mul- derg, etc.. 7th June 1606 (Great Seal), died 14th February 1615-6 (Kal of P.), having married first Marion, daughter of Sir John Campbell, first of Calder, by whom he had, 18. David. (See belozv.) (I.) Jean. "Lady of Kintail." died 12th May 1604 (Kal. of F.), having married Kenneth, first Lord Mackenzie of Kintail. who died March 161 1. P. (2.) Katherine. "Lady Maye." died 5th July 1603 (Kal. of F.), having married Sir William Sinclair of Mey. P. (3.) Muriella. married Duncan Grant. Sas. 26th November 1606 on charter of the church lands of Rothemurchus by Patrick Grant to his son and apparent heir Duncan and Muriella Ross. (4.) Isobell, married as second wife John Munro. first of Fearn. George Ross married, secondly, Isobell, second daughter of Angus M'Intosh of M'Tntosh. " Lady Balnagown." Sas. 9th March 1669. He had also a natural son Alexander (Reg. P. Conn. 3d June 1596)- He was suc- ceeded by his son and heir. 18. David, eleventh of Balnagown. Sas. 1st May 1606. on charter by George Ross to David his son and apparent heir of Culcarne and other lands. Heir of his father in the lands of Wester Feme. Downie, Ranylome, Meikle Rany. Pitkerie and others. 8th September 1615 (Retours). He died 20th November 1632, buried at Feme, having married first — contract pre- Line of Balnagown. 13 served at Dunrobin dated 7th and 8th July 1584 — Lady Mary Gordon, second daughter of Alexander. Earl of Sutherland, " a vertuous and comely lady of ane excellent and quick witt " (Sir R. Gordon); she died s. p. at Overskibo in 1605, aet. 22, buried at Dornoch. By the aforesaid marriage contract it was also settled that should there be a failure of an heir-male to Balnagown, then John, Master of Sutherland, should marry Jean, eldest daughter of George. He married, secondly, Lady Annabella Murray, daughter of John, Earl of Tullibardine. Sas. 6th January 1607 on charter from George Ross of Balnagown to Annabella Murray, about to marry his apparent heir; he was succeeded by his only son, 19. David, twelfth of Balnagown, " being 21 years complete." Sas. 22d October, 1640. On commission of war Ross-shire 1643-44-46 (Acts of Pari.). He fought at the Battle of Worcester, and, dying a prisoner in the Tower, was buried at Westminster 29th December 1653 (Kal. of F.), having married in 1635 Marie, eldest daughter of Hugh, Lord Fraser of Lovat, " and now spouse," Sas. 31st March 1636; she died at Ardmore 22d December 1646 (Kal. of F.), leaving issue, 20. David. (See below.) Alexander, born 13th September 1645, died s. p., April 1665. (1.) Isobell, married, 1659, James Innes of Lightnet (Stodart's Scottish Arms, ii, 288), brother to Sir Robert Innes of that Ilk, being relict of Colonel John Sutherland, brother to Lord Duffus. (2.) Katherine, married Mr. John Mackenzie, fourth of Inverlael, " his spouse." Sasine, 8th April 1670, P. 20. David, thirteenth of Balnagown, son and heir to his father, 6th October 1657, in the lands of Strathoykell, Inverchasley, and others (Inq. spec. Ross ct Cram.), Commissioner of Supply, Ross-shire, 1678-85 (Acts of Parliament), M. P. Ross-shire, 1669-74, Sheriff, 1689. He obtained a charter to himself and Francis Stewart of the lands and barony of Balnagown, 20th July 1688 (Great Seal). Born 14th September 1644, he died 17th April 1711, s. p. I., having married (sasine on marriage contract, 10th April 1666) Lady Anne Stewart, daughter of James, Earl of Moray; she died 1719. He left several illegitimate children, among them " George, son to David Ross of Balnagown," Sasine 18th November 1694. He settled part of the Drum of Fearn on John Ross, mason in Balnagown, and Margaret Ross his spouse, 6th May 1668. Various settlements were proposed for establishing the ■succession to the broad lands of Balnagown, which, by a document registered at Fortrose in 1688, consisted of forty-eight properties. An interesting account is given of the extraordinary intrigues for gaining possession of the estate in Antiquarian Notes, Macintosh, Inverness, 1865, pp. 57-/0. Excluding the old family, it passed to Lieut.-General Charles Ross, from him to his nephew, Honourable Charles Ross, who fell at Fontenoy, 30th April 1745, when his father, George, thirteenth Lord Ross, succeeded. His son, William, Lord Ross, inherited, and, dying unmarried 19th August 1754, after some litigation, it passed to his cousin, Sir James Ross Lockhart, whose descendant is now the owner. 14 Rossiana. LINE OF PITCALNIE. 21. Nicholas, first of Pitcalnie, eldest son of Alexander Ross, ninth of Balnagown, by his second wife, Katherine, daughter of Kenneth Mackenzie of Kintail. Pitcalnie was conveyed to them by Henry, Bishop of Ross (Hist. MSS. 6th Report, p. 715). In 1587 Nicholas obtained a charter from his father of Pitcalnie and other lands. In February 1591 engaged with his father and half brother George (17) in assisting the fugitive Earl of Bothwell in the north (Reg. Priv. Conn.). Charter to him and David, his son and heir, of the third part of Arkboll. He died July 161 1 (Kalender of Feme), having married (contract dated at Arkboll. 24th June 1587) Margaret, daughter of Hugh Munro of Assynt, and widow of Alexander Ross, second of Little Tarrell. She had, 22. David. (See below.) (1.) Christian, married Donald Macleod, seventh of Assynt. Sasine 30th June 1624. 22. David, second of Pitcalnie, heir of Malcolm Ross (72) of Cambus- curry, 27th October 1618 (Inq. spec. Ross ct Crom.). He died 14th October 1646, buried at Feme, having married Jean, daughter of Alexander Dunbar of Munness (sasine 15th December 1640), leaving 23. David. (See below.) 40. Mr. Nicholas, " second son, wit." Sasine 15th December 1640 41. Malcolm, first of Kindeace. (See post.) 23. David, third of Pitcalnie, apparent of Pitcalnie, Sasine 26th October 1639, appointed tutor to David, twelfth of Balnagown, being nearest paternal kinsman (Inqitis. de tutela). Commissioner of war, Ross-shire. 1648-9, of excise 1661, fined £720 (Acts of Parliament) . He married, first. Margaret, second daughter of Alexander Mackenzie of Kilcoy (sasine 15th December 1646), by whom he had (1) Margaret, married Hector Douglas of Mulderg. Sasine on mar- riage contract 4th March. 1670. (2.) Katherine, married Robert Munro of Achnagairt. Marriage con- tract dated 30th August, 1679. He married, secondly, Christinia, daughter of Colonel J. Munro of Obsdale, widow of Captain James M'Culloch of Kindace ; she married, thirdly, John Munro of Fyrish. She had by her second husband, 24. Alexander. (See below.) (1.) Issobel. only daughter, married Mr. James, eldest son of Angus M'Culloch of Pitnillie. Sasine on marriage contract 29th Sep- tember 1682. 24. Alexander, fourth of Pitcalnie, in 1685 commissioner of supply Ross- shire (Acts of Parliament), in 1695-6 tenant of the bishopric of Ross (Rent Roll). He married Agnes, eldest daughter of Hugh Ross of Balmackie (sasine on marriage contract 12th February 1684), and had, 25. Malcolm. (See below.) 32. George, " brother of Malcolm." Sasine 15th April 1710. 33. William, fourth son to Alexander, fourth of Pitcalnie. Sasine 15th April 1710. Captain in the army, went to Antrim in 1741, Line of Pitcalnie. 15 and died 18th October 1763, having married Elizabeth Brussack, widow of W. Whitly. They had, with two daughters, an onlv son 34. Alexander, who married Honora Burke, and had, with three daughters, an only son. 35. James. (See below.) (1.) Margaret, who died nth January 1730, having married Mr. David Ross, minister of Tarbat. who died 18th October 1748. 25. Malcolm, fifth of Pitcalnie, who on the death of his cousin David, thirteenth of Balnagown (20) s. p. /., became the male representative of the Earls of Ross of the old creation, and chief of the family. In 1706 he was commissioner of supply, on 12th March 1708 he had a charter of adjudica- tion and resignation of his lands (Great Seal) ; by sasine, 23d August 1720, Alexander Forrester of Culnald ceded to him the quarter-lands of Annate in the parish of Nigg; in 1721 he is styled Burgess of Tain. He married first, in 1706. Jean, eldest daughter of Mr. J^mes M'Culloch of Piltoun, by whom he had, 26. Alexander, eldest son of Malcolm R. and Jean M'Culloch. Sasine 15th April 1710. (See below.) 29. James. 30. Charles, third son. Sasine 22d September 1730. 31. Angus, fourth son. Sasine 22d September 1730. (1.) Anne, (2) Christian, (3) Isabel, (4) Katherine, who, with their brothers were alive in 1733. 1 Malcolm married, second, Agnes, daughter of Hugh Wallace of Igliston and widow of George Munro. first of Culrain, by whom he had no issue. He was succeeded by his eldest son. 26. Alexander, sixth of Pitcalnie, who died at Avoch, nth September 1758 (Gents. Mag.), having married, first, Jean, second daughter of George Munro of Newmore, by Margaret, sister of the Lord President Forbes (contract dated at Arboll nth January 1729, sasine on it 22d September 1730) ; by her he had. 27. Malcolm, ob. v. p. s. p. m. In 1745 he was at College at Aberdeen, and, joining Prince Charles Edward, was attainted. He mar- ried Susanna, daughter of John Dunbar of Burgie; she died, his relict, 1794, and left an only surviving child Jean, who died in her thirty-first year, 23d September, 1788, having married Alex- ander Macpherson, Writer, Inverness. (Scots Mag.) Alexander married, secondly, Isobel. daughter of David M'Culloch of Piltoun. He married, thirdly, Naomi, daughter of John Dunbar of Burgie, Advocate (contract dated 12th December 1753) ; by her he had an only son, 28. Munro. 28. Munro, seventh of Pitcalnie, who settled the lands of Pitcalnie as follows, sasine 14th June 1760, on royal charter in favour of himself and his heirs-male, whom failing to Captain William Ross (33) of the Royal Regi- ment in Dublin and his heirs-male, whom failing to Duncan Ross of Kin- 1 What became of all these sons and daughters, and of the second and third sons of Alexander, fourth of Pitcalnie? Did none of the sons leave issue? 1 6 Rossi a n a. deace (-4-4) and his heirs-male, whom failing to David Ross (51) of Inverchasley and his heirs-male, whom all failing to the nearest heirs-male of the late Alexander, sixth (26). In 1778 he claimed the title of Earl of Ross, and his petition was presented to the House of Lords. Dying unmar- ried 2d March 1810, according to the terms of the settlement he was succeeded by his cousin James (35), only son of Alexander Ross (34). 35. James, eighth of Pitcalnie, was served heir to his cousin 12th July 1810. and died 31st March 1817. leaving by his wife Sarah, daughter of G. Johnston of Skerrins. Co. Dublin (she died 1816), 36. James, ninth of Pitcalnie, served heir of Pitcalnie 23d August 1821, and died unmarried 12th April 1829. 37. George, succeeded his brother. (Sec below.) 38. Henry, died unmarried 1830. 39. William Munro, died in Jamaica 1839, leaving a son William, who died unmarried in 1872. Blenerhassett died unmarried in Jamaica 1840. (1.) Sarah, married Donald Williamson, and had, with a daughter Sarah, married, first, John Ross, who died s. p., and, secondly, 1862, Arthur Thompson, P. ; a son, John Hugh Ross Williamson, born May, 1S37, wno died , having married , leaving a son. George Ross Williamson, now of Pitcalnie. 37. George, tenth of Pitcalnie, born 3d September 1803, married, 1st June 1837, Katherine, daughter of Dugald Gilchrist of Ospisdale; she died 9th May 1888, and he having died 29th August 1884, s. p., was succeeded by his sister's grandson as above. LINE OF KINDEACE. 41. Malcolm Ross, first of Kindeace, third son of David Ross, second of Pitcalnie, described as "in Gany " (Sasine 19th July 1624), then "in Mid- ganies " (Sasine 23d April 1627), obtained a charter from John Corbat of Little Ranie of part of the lands of Midganies in the Abbacy of Feme in favour of himself and Katherine Corbat his spouse (Sasine on the same 30th May 1649), and also a charter (Sasine 8th Augst 1651), from John Ross of Little Tarrel to him and his spouse of the town and lands of Tuttintarroch, called East and West Turnakis. In 1661 he is styled " of Knockan ; " in April of the same year he made a contract of wadset with David M'Culloch of Kindeace, and, 2d March 1667, obtained a disposition from Sir George M*Kenzie of Tarbat of the town and lands of Meikle Kindeace. parish of Nigg (Sasine 18th August 1683). In 1662 he was fined £600, was Justice of Peace, Ross-shire, 1663, and Commissioner of Supply 1667 (Acts of Par- liament). Circa 1672 he received a grant of Arms, " gu. 3 Lyoncells ramp, arg. within a bordure counter compound of the 2d and 1st. Crest, a fox passant proper. Motto, Caute non astute" (Lyon Off.). He died before 8th May 1695, having had by his first wife, Katherine Corbat, 42. William, younger of Kindeace, burgess of Tain 1680, infefted by his father in Kindeace 25th September 1684 (Kindeace Writs), who also, 2d February 1682, had disposed of the lands of Inver- Line of Kindeace. ij chasley in favour of him and his " apparent spouse Jean Dunbar," daughter of Sir Pat. Dunbar of Sidera, Sutherland. She married secondly, before 19th April 1712 (Sasine), Hugh M'Kay of Scourie. In 1688 William Ross was murdered by James, second Lord Duffus, his debtor, who had been asked for payment. As they were walking together between Balnagown and the ferry of Inverbreakie, Lord Duffus fell on him and ran him through with his sword ; he fled to England, and remained there until his friends purchased a remission from the Crown (Kindeace Papers). He was son-in-law to Lady Seaforth, who, writing to him from Chanori (Fortrose), 8th April 1688, says: "Many a man has fallen in such ane accident worse than your circumstances was, yet has been at peace with God and all the world, and lived very happily for all that." (Soc. Life in Form. Days, Dunbar, vol. i, p. 105). William Ross left 43. David, heir to his grandfather. (See below.) — . William, brother to David (Sasine 4th May 1706). (1.) Katherine (marriage contract dated 17th March 1706), mar- ried Geo. M'Kay of Bighouse. She married, secondly, Robert Sinclair, of Geise, by whom she had one son and four daughters. 50. David. (See post.) 63. Malcolm, " merch. Inverness" (Sasine 16th May 1695), "brother of David" (18th October 1695), "son to Kindeis " (10th Feb- ruary 1697). 64. Thomas. (See post.) (1.) Christian, married first William Ross, seventh of Invercharron, secondly John Ross, " of Gruinards." Malcolm, first of Kindeace, married secondly Jean, daughter of Thomas M'Culloch of Kindeace, provost of Tain, by Isobel, daughter of James David- son, provost of Dundee; they had (Sasine 16th May 1695) three sons, 69. Alexander, born in Ross-shire 1661, Joined his uncle Robert M'Cul- loch, a merchant in Copenhagen, where he probably settled. He obtained a " bore brieve " setting forth his " honourable descent " for many generations. 70. Nicholas, alive 1695. 71. John, died before 16th May 1695. 43. David, second of Kindeace, burgess of Tain 1709, of Dingwall 1732. Appointed chamberlain and receiver of the revenues of the Earldom of Ross 14th November 1728, succeeded his grandfather in an embarrassed estate, having for guardian his uncle David of Inverchasley, Tutor of Kindeace. He married (contract dated 21st April 1709, Sasine on it 19th April 1712) Griselda, seventh daughter of Duncan Forbes of Culloden. They had, 44. Duncan Forbes. (See below.) 49. John, baptized at Tain 5th October 1722. (1.) Mary Innes (Sasine 26th June 1740), married Bernard M'Kenzie of Kinnoch. P. 1 8 Rossi a ii a. (2.) Jean Dunbar, married Donald M'Kenzie of Orloch Hill. (3.) Katherine, married Provost Rose of Fortrose. P. 44. Duncan Forbes, third of Kindeace, burgess of Nairn 1726. Charter of resignation and concession of the lands of Meikle Kindeace as heir general of his late father David, 6th August 1756 {Great Seal). He died November 1769, having married Jean, daughter of Hugh Rose, thirteenth baron of Kilravock. She died 1776, leaving, 45. David, fourth of Kindeace, who died .>-. p. in 1S00, having about 1788 sold the property to John M'Kenzie, Commander of the Prince Kaunits who changed the name to Bayfield. 46. Hugh, Lieutenant of Marines 1776. *7. John, styled of Kindeace. {See below.) (1.) Jean Rose, married Mr. Joseph Taylor, minister of Carnbee, Fife. They had four sons and three daughters, of whom the second, Elizabeth Dunbar, married John Goodsir. 1 (2.) Anne Munro, died unmarried 1837. (3.) Grace, died unmarried. (4.) Caroline, died unmarried. 47. John, fifth of Kindeace, Lieutenant-Colonel 42d Highlanders, died at Lath 1819. having married, 30th April 1798, Honourable Letitia Browne, fourth daughter of first Lord Kilmaine. She died 30th December 1809, leaving, 48. James Caulfield Innes Munro, styled of Kindeace, Lieutenant in the army. Died unmarried in India 1834. (1.) Letitia, died young. (2.) Anna, died young. BRANCH OF INVERCHASLEY. 50. David Ross, first of Inverchasley, second son of Malcolm Ross, first of Kindeace, by his first wife Katherine Corbat. David Ross, thirteenth of Balnagown, granted a charter of the lands of Inverchasley to the aforesaid Malcolm ( Sasine 27th September 1671), who built a house there. David Ross, after the murder of his eldest brother, was appointed "Tutor of Kindeace," he was a writer in Edinburgh, 1692, commissioner of supply, Sutherlandshire, 1695, 1704 (Acts of Parliament), sheriff-depute of Ross (Sasine 9th June 1708). He died at Tarlogie January 1723, having married as first wife Mary, daughter of Hugh Munro, second of Newmore, 2 and relict of Roderick Macleod of Cambuscurrie, by whom, with other children, he had, 51. David. (See below.) 62. Malcolm, "son to Inverchasley" (Suit Roll, Tain, 1721). He married secondly, at Tain, without banns, 20th January 1718, Mary, daughter of Andrew Ross, sixth of Shandwick, and widow of William M'Intosh of Balnespeck, by whom he had an only daughter Mary, who mar- J To Robert Anstruther Goodsir, M. D., their son, I am indebted for much valuable assistance, and for copies of the Kindeace Writs. F. N. R. 2 By this marriage, on the death of William Ross of Aldie (lviii.), 9th December 1803. the estate of Newmore passed to David Ross, Lord Ankerville (52). Br audi of Inverchasley. 19 ricd Grant of Balintoune. She had a son John, Lieutenant 42d Regiment. 51. David, second of Inverchasley, when examined as a witness in 1755, declared his age to be 55 (Antiquarian Notes). He acquired the lands of Easter and Wester Morangie from George Ross of Morangie (Sasine 3d May 1726), and Dibidale in Kincardine (Sasine 14th October 1726). He died at Tarlogie 14th February 1764 (Scots Mag.), having married first (contract dated 30th July 1728), Elspat, daughter of James Sutherland of Clynes (Reg. of Tain), and secondly Anna Ross (Sasine 5th March 1745), to whom he disponed in liferent the lands of Meikle Ranyes. He had, 52. David. (See beloiv.) 59. Charles, Colonel of the Manchester Regiment of Foot, General in the army. He became owner of Invercharron, and died unmarried. 60. James, in the Scots Fusileers, died unmarried. 61. John, by second wife, died at Madras unmarried. (1.) Ann, married William Ross, tenth of Invercharron. (2.) , married M'Culloch. Perhaps Jean, daughter of Inverchasley and Elspat Sutherland, baptized at Tain 25th Feb- ruary 1726. (3.) Mary Ann, youngest daughter, by second wife, married Captain Charles Munro, fifth of Culrain. He died at Madras 1782. Their grandson became Sir Charles Munro, Baronet. 52. David, third of Inverchasley, was appointed in 1756 Stewart-depute of Kirkcudbright, in 1763 one of the principal clerks of Session, and in 1776 was raised to the bench by the title of Lord Ankerville. When in 1786 he sold, for £17,600, the estates of Shandwick, Culliss, and Ankerville to William Ross, grandson of Andrew Ross, seventh of Shandwick, he retained Tarlogie and Morangie. Born 1727, he died at Tarlogie 16th August 1805, having married (contract dated 7th August 1755) Margaret, only child of John Cochrane of Ravelrig (Scots Mag.). She died 31st May 1812 (Ed. An. Reg.), leaving, 53. David. (See below.) 57. Charles. (See post.) (1.) Margaret, eldest daughter, married, circa 1783, James, son of William Baillie of Ardmore, and Captain 7th Fusileers. She left three daughters. (2.) Elizabeth, died unmarried. (3.) Jane, died unmarried. 53. David. In 1777 he entered the house of Messrs. Coutts and Drum- mond. He married, , Marian, daughter to Colonel Gall, military sec- retary to Warren Hastings. She married secondly, 2d April 1809, the 8th Lord Reay, and died 2d July 1865. By her first husband she had, 51. David, Colonel Bengal army. 55. Charles, Lieutenant-Colonel Bengal army, married Marian, daughter of General Maxwell, and died s. p. 56. Laurence, Lieutenant Bengal army, died unmarried. 20 Russia n a. (i.) Margaret Ankerville, married, at Malta, ist March 1820, Colonel Shone, R. A., .y. p. v. (2.) Marian, married, at Malta, 12th November 1828, Colonel Cramer Roberts, and had two sons, of whom John, the eldest, is heir of line of Inverchasley. (3.) Jane, died unmarried. 57. Charles, of Invercharron, advocate, Edinburgh, and judge in the con- sistorial court. The estate of Invercharron was entailed on him and on his heirs, male and female, by his uncle, General Charles Ross. He was born 5th August 1768, and died 1836, being the last male representative of David Ross, second of Inverchasley. He married, , Margaret, daughter of James Borrowman, by whom he had, — . Charles, died unmarried. 58. Robert Ferguson, who succeeded to Invercharron, and died s. p. 10th January 1875. — . Ronald Crawford Ferguson, died unmarried. (1.) Margaret Ankerville, who. in virtue of the entail, inherited Inver- charron on her brother's death, having married, 1834, Captain Joseph John Grove, 25th Foot, who assumed the name of Ross. 1 They had, — . Joseph Charles, Captain 43d regiment, who died 8th May 1889, having married, i860, Emily Henrietta Hay, daughter of William Erskine, fifth son of David Erskine, of Cardross. P. (1.) Harriet Goldie. (2.) Amelia Donald Ankerville, married i860, John Sen- house Goldie Taubman, her cousin. P. (2.) Mary Ferguson. (3.) Elizabeth. The entail of Invercharron was broken a few years ago, and the property sold. BRANCH OF CALROSSIE. 64. Thomas Ross, ultimately first of Calrossie, was fourth son of Malcolm Ross, first of Kindeace, by his first wife Katherine Corbat; in 1665 was styled '* in Knockan ; " he obtained these lands and others 8th October 1695 ; by charter under Great Seal the lands of Easter and Wester Letters (Sasine 25th May 1708) ; and by disposition from Mr. David Poison of Kinmylies (Sasine nth July 1709). "the J / 2 davoch lands of Calrossie in the parish of Logie Easter in favour of Thos. Ross of Knockan." These lands he disposed in liferent (Sasine 5th June 1716) to his wife Katherine Ross, by whom he had, 1 Under Grove-Ross of Invercharron (Burke, Landed Gentry, 1879) it is stated that David Ross, second of Inverchasley, married , daughter of Ronald Craufurd of Restalrig, sister of the Countess of Dumfries, and that she was mother of David, Lord Ankerville. Margaret, second daughter of Patrick Craufurd of Achmanes, by his first wife, Gordon, married John Cochrane of Ravelrig; her half-brother, Ronald Craufurd of Restalrig, W. S., by Katherine Forbes, his wife, was father of Margaret, Countess of Dumfries, who was, therefore, cousin to Lord Ankerville's wife. Line of Invercharron. 21 65. Thomas, second of Calrossie. On the Suit Roll of Tain 1730, town treasurer 1736, Sheriff-substitute of Ross 1750; in 1730 styled "of Knockan," in 1738 " of Calrossie." He died 1754, having married Isobel, daughter of William Ross, fifth of Easterfearn. He disposed of the lands of Pitneileis in the parish of Tain in her favour 21st October 1749, Thomas, their eldest son, being witness. The}- had, 66. Thomas, younger of Calrossie, an officer in the army, killed on the heights of Abraham (Quebec) 12th September 1759. 67. Alexander. (See belozv.) 68. John, poisoned at Cork, circa 1781, by having a dose of arsenic administered to him by mistake for magnesia. Perhaps he was the elder brother of Alexander (67), for in two old letters there are the following notices : " Calrossie, recruiting in this town (Tain), 1776, most unluckily, and without intention, killed one of the town guard, for which he was try'd and acquitted at the last Inverness assizes." "Jack Ross (Calrossie) brought 11 recruits to be attested for Calrossie." (1.) Elizabeth, died unmarried. (2.) Katherine, died at Newton Ross, nth May 1757, ast. 25 (Scots. .Mag.), having married John Munro, second of Culcairn, who made a provision for her on his estates (Sasine 3d March 1753). Their great-grandson was the late Geo. Wm. Holmes Ross of Cromarty. 67. Alexander, third of Calrossie, unmarried in 1790, and styled Lieutenant-Colonel. LINE OF INVERCHARRON. 74. William Ross of Ardgay, afterwards first of Invercharron, second son of Sir David Ross, Knt., seventh of Balnagown, and Helen Keith his wife. In 1528 James v. granted to him, styled " brother of deceased Walter, eighth of Balnagown," lands in Strathoickell (Orig. Par. Scot. vol. ii, part ii, p. 690). He married , daughter of Alexander M'Kenzie, first of Davochmaluak, and had, 75. Alexander. (See belozv.) 128. Hugh. 129. John. (1.) Effie, married Mr. Hector Munro, minister of Edderton, first of Daan (Sasines 22d August 1626 and 30 April 1629), lands of Little Daan. They had three sons, William, Alexander, John. 75. Alexander, second of Invercharron, with other Rosses, harried the lands of Vaus of Lochslyne, 26th September 1610 (Reg. Priv. Conn.). He died 15th September 1619 (Kal. of F.), having married first Margaret, daughter of ■ Innes of Calrossie; charter to him and his spouse of the lands of Invercharron 17th May 1593 (Great Seal). He married secondly Isobel, daughter of William Ross of Priesthill. She married again Alexan- der, son of Thomas Ross in Tutintarroch (Sasine 30th July 1632). By his first wife he is said to have had seven sons and six daughters, and by his 22 Rossi a ii a. second wife a numerous family (MS. Pcd.). At present it is impossible to decide on the maternal descent of all of the following sons: — 76. William, son and heir. (See below.) 121. Nicholas in Dalhome, brother to George Ross in Pitmadury (Sasine 2ist June 1626). 122. David. 123. Alexander " in Drumgillie." some time in Balnagown 1627, son of deceased Alexander of Invercharron (Sasine 20th October 1647), "of Drumgillie" (Sasine 5th April 1642). Died before Decem- ber 1668, having married Agnes M'Culloch (Sasine 30th May 1649). 124. George in Pitmaduthie. 1 "heir of Alexander Ross of Invercharron, his father" (Inq. gen. 25th July 1638). probably eldest son of second marriage. He married , and had, with a natural son John (Sasine 1641), 125. Alexander, 28th December 1652 (Kindeace Writs'). 126. Walter. 127. Thomas, "son of Alexander of Invercharron" (Sasine 26th November 1606). 1276. Donald, "son of deceased Alexander" (Sasine 30th July 1632). 76. William, third of Invercharron "apparent of" (Sasine 1st May 1606). died 13th October 1622. buried at Kincardine (Kal. of F.), having married Katherine, daughter of Hugh Munro of Assynt. He had. 77. Walter. I See below. ) 93. Hugh. 94. Robert. (See post.) 120. Alexander. His father granted him a charter of the west half of Wester Feme, dated 19th November, 1620. Hugh, his brother, witnessed the sasine. ( 1.) Ada, married William Ross of Priesthill. 77. Walter, fourth of Invercharron, "son of late William" (Sasine 9th February 1630). On commission of war Ross and Cromarty 164S (Acts of Parliament). He married first Issobel, relict of James Innes, third of Calrossie, and daughter of Andrew Munro, fifth of Milntown (Sasines 9th June and 6th September 1625). married secondly Margaret, daughter of David Munro of Culnauld (Sasine 9th February 1630). He had, 78. Sir David of Broadfoord. Knt. of Malta, " apparent of Inver- charron " (Sasine 5th June 1638). 79. William. (Sec below.) (1.) Janet, married first Thomas Ross of Priesthill (Sasine 15th October 1639), and secondly, as second wife, Kenneth M'Kenzie, first of Scatwell, "relict of" (Sasine 12th May 1682), by whom she had two sons, Alexander and Kenneth, fourth of Scatwell, created Bart. Nova Scotia 1703. 1 \\'illiam Ross in Pitmaduthie. witness (Sasine 8th June 1648), married Katherine Ross, " his relict " (Sasine 31st June 1698), by whom he had Andrew and William, " only sons," both in Pitmaduthie. Line of Invercharron. 23 (2.) Christian, married Hugh Macleod of Cambuscurrie (son of Don- ald Macleod, seventh of Assynt, by Christian, daughter of Nicholas Ross of Pitcalnie) (Sasine 9th March 1650), by whom she had three sons, Roderick, /Eneas of Cadboll, Alexander of Sallchy. 79. William, fifth of Invercharron, styled previously " of Grunzeard " (Sasine 4th August 1652). Commissioner of supply 1655 (Acts of Parlia- ment). Charter to his son and heir Walter, and his spouse Alary Gray (Sasine 30th December 1661). He married Janet, daughter of Walter Innes of Inverbreaky, "his spouse" (Sasine nth August 1652), and had, 80. Walter, sixth of Invercharron, married Margaret Gray, widow of George Murray of Calrossie (Sasine 10th April 1666), and died .?. p. 81. William, succeeded his brother. (See below.) 88. Hugh of Brealangwell (see post), "'brother of Invercharron" (Sasine 6th August 1687). 88b. David in Leakdavak, lawful son of William (Sasine 28th April 1637). (1.) Isobel (marriage-contract dated 13th April 1660), married Andrew Ross of Shandwick. (2.) Janet, married George Baillie of the family of Dunscan (MS. Ped.) 81. William, seventh of Invercharron, "son to deceased William" (Sasine 1st March 1676). He died before February 1693, having married Christian, "his spouse" (Sasine 31st June 1680), daughter of Malcolm Ross of Kindeace (marriage-contract dated 9th June 1677, registered at Fortrose 6th June, 1678). She married secondly, John Ross of Gruinards. By her first husband she had, with another daughter, 82. William. (See below.) (1.) Katharine, eldest daughter (Sasine on marriage-contract 14th September 1703), married Bailie John M'Culloch of Tain, brother to Mr. James M'Culloch of Piltoun. 82. William, eighth, " now of Invercharron, eldest son of William, eldest brother to deceased Walter" (Sasine 7th August 1708), commissioner of supply 1685, 1689, 1704 (Acts of Parliament), died before 1721 (Tain Regr.), having married (Sasine on contract 9th August 1708), Helen, second daughter of Hugh Ross of Brealangwell, "his spouse" (Sasine 29th October 1719), by whom he had, with other children, 83. David. (See bclozv.) 87. George, Lieutenant in General Marjorybanks' Regt. 1758. (1.) Janet, married Angus Sutherland. (2.) Katherine, married John M'Culloch, Bailie of Tain, and had Ann, baptized at Tain 18th June 1721, David, baptized there 7th September 1722. 83. David, ninth of Invercharron (Sasine 29th November 1736 on charter by George, Earl of Cromarty, to David, now of Invercharron, eldest son and heir of deceased William of Invercharron. in the parish of Kincardine). Buried 2d September 1758, having married, before 1727, Isobel, 24 Rossiana. daughter of Hugh Ross of Achnacloich. She married, secondly, Robert Munro in Invercharron. By her first husband she had, 84. William. (See below.) 84&. David, died unmarried at Baltimore in America, (i.) Hannah. (2.) Margaret Janet, married John Munro, ship's carpenter, London. (3.) Hughina. 84. William, tenth of Invercharron, married (Post-nup. cont.) Ann, daughter of David Ross, second of Inverchasley, and had, 85. David, Captain, 1st Foot, d. s. p. 86. Charles, soldier in India, 1783, d. s. p. (1.) Helen, married David M'Caw, accountant of Excise, Edinburgh. (2.) Elizabeth. BRANCH OF BREALANGWELL. 88. Hugh Ross, first of Brealangwell, younger son of William Ross, fifth of Invercharron, and brother to deceased William, seventh of Invercharron (Sasine 25th February 1693), married Helen, daughter of David Dunbar of Dumphail, and had, 88b. Hugh. (See below.) (1.) Anna, eldest daughter, married (contract dated 21st July 1707, Sasine on it 24th January 1711 ), John Gordon of Carroll. (2.) Helen, second daughter (Sasine on marriage-contract 9th August 1708), married her cousin, William Ross, eighth of Invercharron. 886. Hugh, second of Brealangwell, married first , by whom he had, 89. Walter, styled " of Greenyards, younger of Brealangwell," " only son," 1720, married Helen Macleod (Sasine 7th May 1747), daughter of Roderick Macleod of Cambuscurrie, by Mary, daughter of Hugh Munro of Newmore, and had a daugh- ter , married circa 1748. The marriage-contract between Walter Ross and Helen, youngest daughter of the late Rosie Macleod of Cambuscurrie, with consent of Mr. yEneas Macleod of Cadboll, her uncle, and of .Eneas Macleod of Cambuscurrie, her brother, was signed at Invercharron 19th February 1715. David Ross of Inverchasley and Charles Ross of Eye, witnesses. (Gen. Reg. Deeds, M'Kenzie Office, vol. 161.) Hugh married, secondly, Elizabeth, daughter of William Ross of Aldie, by Sibla M'Kenzie his wife (Sasine 1st April 1725). Aldie was eventually settled on the sons of this marriage. 90. William, " their son," 1725. 91. Simon, of Gladfield before 1758, " son of the late Hugh, commonly called of Brealangwell" 1766, married Anne, daughter of Wil- liam Munro, third of Achany, and had, 92. Hugh of Gladfield and Aldie, married Katherine, daughter of William Baillie of Knockbreak, d. s. p. (1.) Elizabeth, married, December 1780, John Davidson of Buchies. P. Branches of Ankerville and Easterfearn. 25. (2.) Isabella, married, December 1780, Robert M'Kay, Lieutenant, Sutherland Fencibles. S. P. (3.) Anne, married George Mackie, Rector of the Grammar School of Tain. F. (4.) Margaret, married Lieutenant George Munro. P. (5.) Mary, married John, son of Bailie Rose of Nairn. P. (6.) Georgina, married Rev. John M'Donald, D. D. P. (7.) Sibella, married George Ross of Midfearn, afterwards of Glen- canish in Assynt. P. BRANCHES OF ANKERVILLE AND EASTERFEARN. 94. Robert Ross, second son of William Ross, third of Invercharron,. who died 13th October 1622, had by two sons (MS. Ped.), 96. William. (See below.) 100. Alexander. (See post.) 96. William had a son, 97. Alexander, first of Ankerville (Sasine 3d January 1721, on charter under Great Seal in favour of Alexander Ross, late merchant at Cracow, of the lands of Easter Kindeace, now called Ankerville). He died between 1743 and 1750, having married Sophia French (Sasine 26th January 1733)^ and had, 98. Alexander, eldest son (Sasine 3d January 1728). 99. David, second son (Sasine 1733). " The above Alexander, first of Ankerville, was in the service of Augustus, King of Poland, and being the only person who could bear more liquor than his Majesty, got to be a Commissary, came away with the plunder of churches in the war about the Crown of Poland, purchased this estate of iioo a year, built and lived too greatly for it, . . . and died much reduced." (Pocock's Tour through Scotland, Letter xxxiv. ). 100. Alexander, first of Easterfearn, second son of the above Robert Ross (94), had by two sons, 101. William. (See below.) 119. Walter in Easterfearn, " brother-german to William" (Sasine 12th January 1625). 101. William, second of Easterfearn, died 9th April 1625 (Kal. of F.), having married Issobella Ross (Sasine 7th May 1630 on charter to her as " relict of William," by George Munro of Tarlogie, of liferent of part of Tarlogie). They had, 102. Hugh. (See below.) 118. William, "a prudent young man, brother-german to Hugh (Sasine 1st May 1726). 102. Hugh, third of Easterfearn, " fear of Easterfearn," son of William and Issobell (Sasine 12th January 1625), "of Easterfearn" (Sasine 1st May 1626), married Isobell, eldest daughter of Walter Ross of Morangie, and had, 103. Hugh, fourth of Easterfearn, " son and heir of deceased Hugh Ross of Easterfearn" (Sasine 15th May 1651) ; living in 1676. He married , and had, 104. Thomas, eldest son, d. s. p. and 26 Rossiana. 105. Alexander, fifth of Easterfearn, heir of Thomas, eldest son of Hugh Ross of Easterfearn, his brother-german (Rctour, 15th August 1694), "of Easterfearn" (Sasine 29th March 1687). Charter to him of the quarter lands of Kirkskaith (Sasine 23d April 1686). Commissioner of supply 1685, 1689, 1690 (Acts of Parliament). He died before 30th January 1699, having married Janet, daughter of Gilbert Robertson, second of Kindeace (Inventory of goods of deceased Janet, 24th January 1700). They had, 106. William. (See below.) 110. Alexander of Little Daan, W. S., Edinburgh, and Solicitor of Appeals, London. Sasine 26th March 1736 on disposition granted by Robert Ross his brother of the lands of Little Daan. He died in Gray's Inn. London, 4th March 1753, having married , by whom he had, 111. David, the famous tragedian, born 1st May 1728. When a boy at Westminster he offended his father, who dis- inherited him, leaving him a shilling to be paid yearly by his sister (if he claimed it) on May 1st, to remind him that he had better not have been born. He died 14th September 1790. buried in St. James Churchyard, Piccadilly, having married the actress Fanny Murray, who died 2d April 1778. (Notice of him, Scot's Mag. 1790.) ( 1. ) Elizabeth, married Hugh Ross of Kerse. 112. Robert (see post), heir of conquest to deceased Captain David Ross, his immediate younger brother (Sasine 4th March 1736). 110. David of Little Daan, Captain in Lord Strathnaver's Regiment, and then factor to the Duke of Sutherland. Died unmarried before September 1735. 117. Walter, "son lawful to Alexander Ross of Easterfearn" (Sasine 26th August 1687). (1.) Janet, "spouse" to Mr. Arthur Sutherland, minister at Edderton (Sasine 7th June 1699), "relict" (5th April 1716). P. 106. William, fifth of Easterfearn, ''eldest son and heir of late Alex- ander" (Sasine 31st October 1700). Commissary clerk of Ross 1706. Com- missioner of supply 1695, 1704 (Acts of Parliament). Principal Bailie of Tain. Purchased Tarlogie and Calrossie from David M'Lendris, 1 died 1712, leaving his affairs in confusion, having married , by whom he had, 107. Alexander. (See below.) 108. Edward, merchant, Inverness (Sasine 15th December 1726). 109. Walter, killed in Kintail 2d October, 1721, buried in Beauly Priory. After the rising in 1715. commissioners were 'David M'Lendris, eldest son of Finlay M'Lendris, who died 25th November 1675, by his wife Isobel Fearn, only sister to David Fearn of Tarlogie, who died .y. p., was retoured heir of line to his uncle. He ceded the above-named lands to William Ross, 17th August 1704, and with his consent gave a Sasine (Partic. Reg. Inverness, vol. vi.), 14th June 1708, to David Ross of Inverchasley, who eventually became owner of Tarlogie. Line of Tolly and Achnacloich. 27 appointed to collect the rents of the forfeited estates. But in the vast territory of the Earl of Seaforth the government failed in obtaining payment, the rents being regularly sent by a faithful retainer to the Earl in Paris. William Ross and his brother, Bailie Robert, aided by a few soldiers and armed servants, rashly undertook to collect them ; meeting the Kintail men in force on the heights of Strathglass, Easterfearn, his son, and a son of 3ailie Robert's, were wounded. His son died next day. He gave up his papers, and bound himself not to act again on the Seaforth estates. (Hist, of Tain, Taylor, 1882.) (1.) Christian, eldest daughter. (2.) Isobel, died October 1766, having married Thomas Ross of Calrossie. 107. Alexander, sixth of Easterfearn (Sasine 8th April 1726). Com- missary clerk for Ross. The estate of Easterfearn was sequestered 1735. He married Sarah Robertson (Dornoch Reg.), and left a son John, living 1793, and a daughter Isabella Mary Margaret, baptized at Dornoch 4th November 1735. To return to — 112. Robert, Bailie of Tain. He married Janet, daughter of Alexander Ross of Little Tarrell, and had, with others, two daughters, who were living at Tain 1745, and a son, a silversmith in Jamaica, 113. William, who married , and had a son Robert. Lieutenant-Colonel, whose widow was living 1803, and four daughters : Elizabeth, married Carruthers ; Jane, mar- ried Miller ; Jean and Charlotte, unmarried 1793. Lieu- tenant-Colonel Ross had four daughters : I. Maria Ann, who married, 9th May 1793, Major Joseph Wade, E. I. C. S. and was mother of Sir Claude Martin Wade, C. B. 2. Helen, married Denis O'Callaghan. 3. Amelia, married John Hilton, E. I, C. S. 4. Charlotte, unmarried 1803. 114:. David, in E. I. C. M. S., mate in the Dorrington 1745, married in London, — April 1746, Susan Hume, niece of Mr. Hume, M. P. and E. I. Director. 115. W T alter, died unmarried on board the ship Calmar, circa 1743. (1.) Jannet, widow, 1745, of John M'Kenzie, "ship-master, Cromarty" (Sasine 1736). LINE OF TOLLY AND ACHNACLOICH. 130. Hugh Ross, first of Tolly, younger son of Sir David Ross, Knight, seventh of Balnagown, laird of Achnacloich 1538, received these lands from James v. for an annual payment of £12. The name of his first wife is unknown ; he married, secondly, as third husband, Barbara, daughter of Alexander Tullock, and had by her an only surviving son, Robert. (Retonr of her in her tierce, Sheriff Court Books, Inverness, 19th October 1575.) By her first husband, Alexander Kinnaird of Culbin, she had a daughter, Issobel, who married Thomas Ross, commendator of Feme. "Ane honorabil man," who died 13th January, 1574 (Kal. of F.), and had, with a daughter, 28 Rossiana. Janet, married in 1594, as first wife, to Walter Ross, first of Morangie, cora- mendator of Feme, a son, 131. Hugh, second of Tolly, Sheriff Depute of Inverness (Sasine 18th October 1617), " vir vera pietatis imagine," died 10th September 1621, buried at Feme, having married Isabel, third daughter of George Munro, fourth of Miltoun. She died 24th December 1594, also buried at Feme. He mar- ried, secondly, Euphemia Munro, living 1607. He had, (1.) Hugh. (See below.) (2.) George, to whom his father granted a charter of donation of the lands of Pitkerie. He was also portioner of Inverchasley. (See first family so styled.) He disponed Pitkerie to the sons of Ross of Little Tarrell ; it finally passed into the hands of one son, who thus became " of Pitkerie." He married Margaret, daughter of William Ross of Priesthill. (See Priesthill.) (1.) Hugh, 1 designed of Breakauche, "apparent of Tollie," 24th April 1592, complaint against him for seizing a certain John Ross, and carrying him prisoner to Balnagown (Reg, Priv. Conn.). He died in his apparency, circa 1610, having married Margaret, daughter of John Gordon of Embo, by whom he had, 132. Hugh. (See below.) (1.) Eleanor. 132. Hugh, third of Tolly, " heir of Hugh Ross of Achnacloich, his father," 1st October 1622 (/»<7. Gen.). Heir male of Hugh Ross of Tollie, his grandfather, in the lands of Tollie. (Same date. Ret ours Inq. spec. Ross et Cromarty.) David Ross, eleventh of Balnagown, granted to him, designed of Achnacloich, and to Hugh, his eldest son, the office of Forestry of the Forest of Friwater, and to him designed of Tollie, and to Hugh, his eldest son, the office of Bailiary of the lands and barony of Strathockell (Charters dated 27th February 1637, Sasines 22d October 1640). Also on the same day a letter of Forestry for 19 years, granting them free water, wood, timber, hart, hynd, doe * * * in the barony of Balnagown (Gen. Reg. Deeds Ed., vol. 532, 8th February 1640, " Hugh of Tollie," etc., top of p. 62). " Hugh of Tollie, wt twa of his servandis, died suddenlie in the Castell of Cromartie," buried at Feme 2d February 1643, having married Agnes, daughter of John M'Kenzie, first of Inverlael, sub-dean of Ross. They had, 133. Hugh. Died young. 135. John. (See below 134«) ; "son to Hugh, late of Tollie" (Sasine 16th Xovember 1652). Disposition to him of the chaplainry of Alnes by Alexander Louis, merchant of Edinburgh (Gen. Reg. Deeds Ed. vol. 532). George, younger brother of John, was living 1663. (1.) Margaret (Sasine 30th May, 1649), married Walter Ross of Bella- muckie. P. J I have to thank Miss Gilchrist for her kindness in giving me much valuable information, and especially for having pointed out the omission of Hugh Ross of Breakauche from the notes on Achnacloich, as previously printed. F. N. R. In 153S James V. granted to Hugh Ross for five years, three marklands of " Brckauche," and five marklands of "Auchneclaych." — (Reg. See. Sig., vol. xi, fol. 93.) Branch of Priest hill. 29 134a. John, fourth "of Achnacloich " (Sasine 22d October 1686), son and heir to deceased Hugh Ross of Tollie (Sasine 15th August, 1671) ; the disposition made to him 10th September 1641, of the chaplainry of Alnes and its revenues was made " with the consent of Hugh Ross of Tollie (his father), for himself, and the heirs of the late Hugh of Tollie, his father, and of the deceased Hugh of Tollie, his guidsir." He died before 1687, having married Margaret, daughter of Colin M'Kenzie, first of Kincraig, and widow of Gilbert Robertson, second of Kindeace, and had, 134b. John, fifth of Achnacloich, commissioner of supply Ross 1690, and 1704 (Acts of Parliament), Sheriff-deputy of Ross 5th July 1700, M. P. for Tain. Born , 1660, marriage-contract dated 1687; he died 1716. He married Margaret Barbour, heir of line to James Barbour, merchant, Inverness, her brother (Inq. gen., 10th May 1700, I. 236). They had, with two daughters, Janet and Jean, the latter married to Arthur Ross of Priesthill, 134c. Hugh. (See below.) 134c Robert. (See post.) (1.) Christian, "eldest daughter of deceased John." Sasine on mar- riage-contract 25th November 1737, dated 19th April 1715. She died 1st January 1770, having married Mr. Hugh Munro of Kiltearn, minister of Tain. He died 16th May 1744. P. (Regs, of Tain.) 134c. Hugh, sixth of Achnacloich (Sasine 2d July, 1717), on disposition by John Ross of Achnacloich in favour of Hugh of Tolly, his eldest son, of the lands of Tolly and others in the parish of Rosskeen. In 1715 he headed the men of Tain on the Hanoverian side. Killed in a duel with Bailie Hugh Ross, afterwards of Kerse, 13th June 1721. He married Jannet, sister to Sir William Gordon of Invergordon, Bart. (Sasine 2d July, 1717), :and left, 134d. John, seventh of Achnacloich (Sasine 29th May 1721). He died unmarried, 1727 (1.) Isobel, married, before 1727, first David Ross of Invercharron, who died 1758, secondly Robert Munro in Invercharron. 134c. Robert, eighth of Achnacloich, succeeded his nephew John, died before October 1739, having married (Sasine on marriage-contract 19th March 1747), Katherine, daughter of John M'Kenzie, second of Highfield, and had, with an only daughter Margaret, who married, 7th December 1770, John Gilchrist, a son, 134f. John, ninth of Achnacloich, captain in the army, August 1784. Sasine 7th October 1759, on precept of Chancery to John Ross, now of Achna- cloich, eldest son and heir of deceased Robert, of the lands of Wester ■Cadboll, now called Ballintore. BRANCH OF PRIESTHILL. 136«. Mr. Donald Ross, first of Priesthill, Dean of Caithness, second ;son of John Ross, fifth of Balnagown, died 7th October 1487 (Kal. of F.). JFrom him descended, 30 Rossiana. 136b. Donald of Priesthill, who died 9th June 1571 (Kal. of F.), being probably father of, 136c. William of Priesthill. Caution for him 28th June 1588 (Reg. Priv. Coun.). Sasine on charter 30th June 1606 by William Ross ''of Priesthill, Donald apparent of P. wit." He is said to have married Ada, daughter of William Ross, third of Invercharron, leaving, with a natural son John (Reg. Priv. Coun. 25th July i59 ol )> 136tf. Donald. (See below.) 136f. Hugh. Charter of concess. to him as second son of William of Priesthill of the lands of Easterfearn, 9th December 1617 (Great Seal). 136{7. William (Sasine 15th October 1639), "son to deceased William Ross of Priesthill." In 1649 obtained reversion of the church lands of Ulladail. (1.) Margaret (Sasine on charter 21st May 1607), "about to marry" George Ross of Pitkery. (2.) Isobel, married, as second wife, Alexander Ross, second of Inver- charron, who died 1619. She married, secondly, Alexander, son of Thomas Ross of Tuttintarroch (Sasine 30th July 1632). 136<7. Donald of Priesthill, "deceased" (Sasine 8th December 1636), having married , and leaving, 136c. Thomas, commissioner of loan and tax Inverness and Cromarty 1643. Cited for refusing to keep the peace 1649 (Acts of Parliament). He died 31st January 1650 (Reg. Acts and Decreets, Edin., vol. 567, fol. 341), having married Janet, eldest daughter of Walter Ross of Invercharron, " his spouse," 22d April 1641. She married secondly, as second wife, Ken- neth M'Kenzie of Scatwell, " his relict," 1664. The daughters of 136 (witnesses, Sasine 25th November 1701). x. George ) (1.) Janet, married Robert Ross, bailie of Tain, son of Alexander Ross of Easterfearn. P. (See Appendix D.) (2.) Margaret, married 29th November 1714, George, second son of Mr. Bernard Mackenzie of Sandilands (Cromarty Reg.). P. vii. Hugh, seventh of Little Tarrell, is infefted in the town and lands of Little Tarrell by his father (Sasine 29th December 1701), on his marriage with Christian, eldest daughter of Alexander Mackenzie of Lochsline. Com- missioner of Supply 1706 (Acts o,f Parliament). He died before 23d July 1725. BRANCH OF PITKERIE. xii. Alexander Ross, first of Pitkerie, " lawful son to Mr. John," third of Little Tarrell (witness to Sasine 4th March 1608), "portioner of Pitkerie, and Jonet Monro his spouse" (Sasine 20th September 1648). He died 1st February 1649, and was buried at Tain (Kal. of Feme), having married Janet, youngest daughter of Andrew Munro of Limorn. She married, sec- ondly, Mr. David Ross of Logie (Sasine on marriage contract 7th June 1655).. By her first husband she had, xiii. Hugh of Cunlich, " nearest lawful heir to deceased Alexander of Pitkerie" (Sasine 5th August 1657). He was served and retoured as son and heir in half the davoch lands of Quin- lichmore (Sasine 15th June 1654). He married , and left a son, xiv. Andrew (Sasine 5th August 1668). 48 Rossiatia. xv. Mr. Andrew. (See below.) xxi. Robert, " lawful son of deceased Alexander of Pitkerie " (Sasine gth December 1651), "in Pitkerie," 1st February 1658. xv. Mr. Andrew, second of Pitkerie, A.M. degree, Aberdeen 1647, minister of Tarbat 1654. He died 1692, aged about 65 (Fasti Ecc. Scot.), having married Elizabeth Bruce, "his spouse" (Sasine 7th January 1658, and 25th March 1714). They had, xvi. Mr. Alexander. (See below.) xx. Benjamin, "son of Mr. Andrew, minister at Tarbat" (witness, Sasine 15th August 1682). xvi. Mr. Alexander, third of Pitkerie, " eldest son and heir to late Mr. Andrew" (Sasine 15th November 1722). "Served and retoured " (Sasine 25th March 1714). Married ■ . daughter of Major William Cock- burn (MS. Ped.), and left, xvii. Benjamin, "eldest son of Mr. Alexander" (Sasine 1st July 1703, and 24th May 1717). xviii. Andrew. (See below.) xviii. Andrew, fourth of Pitkerie, " son to Mr. Alexander " (witness, Sasine 1st March 171 7). Obtained from the Lyon Office the following grant of Arms : — " Gu. 3 Lyoncells ramp. arg. within a bordure compound or and of the first." No crest mentioned. Motto : — " Non opus sed ingenium." He married Katherine, daughter of Duncan Fraser of Achnagairn. She married, secondly, George Gray, seventh of Skibo. By her first husband she had, xix. George. (See below.) (1.) Jean, married, 6th March 1747 (Dornoch Reg.), as second wife, Mr. Robert Kirke, minister of Dornoch 1713-38. Their eldest daughter, Jean, married Duncan Munro, third of Culcairn. xix. George, fifth of Pitkerie, and first of Cromarty by purchase in 1772; Army agent; M.P. Cromartyshire 1780-4; for the Wick Burghs 15th March 1786. He died s.p. 7th April 1786. Will proved in London. George Gray, son of his half-brother Alexander Gray of Skibo, inherited Cromarty, and assumed the name of Ross. He died unmarried, when the estate passed to Katherine Munro of Culcairn, daughter of Jean Kirke, niece of the above George Ross. She married, as second wife, Hugh Ross of Glastullich, who assumed the name of Ross, and had by her, George William Holmes Ross of Cromarty, who died 19th November 1883, having married, 20th April 1849, Adelaide Lucy, daughter of Dun- can Davidson, fourth of Tulloch, by whom he had 3 sons and 4 daughters. BRANCH OF NETHER PITKERIE. xxii. George Ross, " brother of Alexander of Pitkerie, younger son of deceased Mr. John of Little Tarrel " (Sasine 19th July 1624), " portioner of Pitkerie" (Sasine 4th October 1648). He married Katherine, daughter of Thomas Ross (MS. Ped.), and had, Branch of Nicholas Ross, Dyer in Tain. 49 xxiii. Mr. Thomas, "minister of Kincardine" (witness, Sasine 16th August 1656), "eldest son of George, and cautioner to Mr. John" (Sasine on bond 9th December 1651). He married Lilias Dunbar (MS. Pcd.), and had, xxiv. Mr. Alexander. (See below.) xxviii. Mr. George. (See post.) xxiv. Mr. Alexander of Nether Pitkerie (Sasine on disposition 28th July 1669, "by Mr. Thomas Ross, portioner of Pitkerie, in favour of Mr. Alex- ander, minister at Fearne, and Jean Munro, his spouse, of the Easter and Nether quarters of Pitkerie)." His wife was daughter of Mr. George Munro, minister of Rosemarkie, and third of Pithendie, chancellor of Ross ; " relict of Mr. Alexander" (Sasine 4th October 1700). They had, xxv. Alexander of Nether Pitkerie, " son of deceased Mr. Alexander and Jean Munro" (Sasine as above). He married Anne, daughter of Fraser of Achnagairn (MS. Pcd.), and had, xxvi. George of Nether Pitkerie, "writer, Edinburgh" (Sasine 14th December 1736, on charter under Great Seal of the lands of Annat and others in the parish of Nigg). In Sasine 5th June 1753 on Crown Charter of Easter and Wester Kinmylies, in the regality of Spynie, he is styled " solicitor in London." He married , and had a son, xxvii. Charles, who married . xxviii. Mr. George (see ante), son of Mr. Thomas Ross, was minister of Kincardine 1671, died — February 1683, aged about 47 (Fasti Ecc. Scot.), having married Katherine Ross, "his spouse" (disposition in her favour, Sasine 12th February 1683, of the lands of Easter and Wester Calrichies). They had, xxix. Mr. David, " schoolmaster at Tain " (witness, Sasine 20th Novem- ber 1694), "minister at Tarbat, eldest son to deceased Mr. George (Sasine nth December 1709). He took his degree at St. Andrews, and was ordained 1707. He died 18th October 1748, having married Margaret, daughter of Alexander Ross, fifth of Pitcalnie. She died nth January 1730. BRANCH OF NICHOLAS ROSS, DYER IN TAIN. xxx. Nicholas Ross (sec ante), son of Mr. John Ross, "dyer and burgess of Tain" (Sasine 30th June 1624), "brother of George" (Sasine 28th July 1638). He married Katherine, daughter of William Ross of Balkeith (MS. Ped.), and had, xxxi. John of Newtown, Provost of Tain. xxxii. Alexander. (See bclozv.) 1L Thomas, M.D., Barbadoes. lii. David. xxxii. Alexander, "burgess of Tain, brother of John" (Sasine 18th April 1696). He married Isobell M'Culloch (MS. Ped.), and had, xxxiii. Nicholas, who married Jean Sutherland. xxxviii. Thomas. (See below.) xxxix. Walter. (See post.) xxxviii. Thomas, bailie of Tain, married Abigail, daughter of Thomas M'Culloch of Kindeace (MS. Ped.). and had. 50 Rossiana. xxxiv. David. xxxv. Nicholas. (See beloiv.) By an error in the Key-Chart David and Nicholas appear as sons of (xxxiii) Nicholas. xxxv. Nicholas, merchant at Tain, married Jannet, daughter of Mr. Colin Mackenzie (MS. Pcd.), and had, xxxvi. Thomas. xxxvii. Colin. xxxix. Walter (see ante), Town Clerk of Dornoch, Provost of Tain 1693, married Jean, daughter of Mr. Robert ,Ross of Logie, by Barbara, daughter of Mr. George Munro, Chancellor of Ross. They had, xl. Thomas, Dean of Guild of Dornoch. xli. Alexander. (See belozc.) xli. Alexander, Sheriff Clerk Deputy of Ross (Sasine 3d February 1730). Sheriff Clerk (Sasine 29th January 1734). Born 1700. died 1762, having married 17-29, Margaret, daughter of Mr. Hugh Munro of Kiltearn, minister of Tain (Sasine of renunciation, 7th August 1747, by her to her husband of £100 out of the lands of Culrain, and afterwards of the same sum out of Culcairn). They had, xiii. George, died young. xliii. William Sutherland. (See below.) (1.) Katherine, died unmarried. (2.) Christian, died unmarried. xliii. William Sutherland, born 19th March 1740, died 27th January 1816, having married, 9th August 1770, Hannah Margaretta Owen. They had, with other five children who died young, xliv. William Sutherland, born 10th July 1771, married, 1802, Catherine Tinker, and died s.p. 1845. xlv. Edward Dalhousie. (See below.) — . Henry John, born 1787, died unmarried 1830. (1.) Margaretta Susannah, died 1801. having married Andrew Burnside in 1793. P. (2.) Elizabeth Anne, died unmarried 1823. (3.) Laurencia Dorothea, married 1804, Francis Robertson of Chilcote Hall, Ashby-de-la-Zouche, and died 1848, having had nine children. (4.) Amelia, died unmarried 1859. (5.) Anna Sophia, married, 181 1, Col. Mundy Wood, and died 1825. P. (6.) Gilbertha, married, , John Durand, and died s.p. 1848. xlv. Edward Dalhousie, born 27th May 1784, died 1842, having married, 16th October 1806, Euphemia Louisa, daughter of David Fell of Caversham Grove, Oxon. She died 1862, having had, with other chil- dren who died young. xlvi. William Hunter, born 21st September 1807, died 1844, having married, 16th May 1843, Frances Petersen; he left an only daughter Williamina. xlvii. Henry Francis, born 24th July 1819. Branch of Aldie. 51 xlviii. Owen Charles Dalhousie, born 8th January 1823. xlix. Fitzgerald Edward Turton, born 1st January 1824. 1. George Arthur Emilius. (See below.) (1.) Louisa Euphemia. (2.) Ellen Catherine Margaretta, married, 15th May 1832, William Stuart Day, and died 1837, leaving an only daughter. (3.) Julia Elizabeth, married, 1847, Rev. D. S. Halkett, Rector of Little Bookham, and died 1849, leaving an only daughter, Katherine Euphemia. (4.) Cecilia Louisa Annette, died unmarried, 20th May 1886. (5.) Emily Bertha. 1. George Arthur Emilius, born 28th May 1828, died — November 1876, having married, 1859, Sibella Mary, daughter of Venerable James Wilson, Archdeacon of Christchurch, New Zealand, and had, — . Edward James, born 29th January i860, married, 24th January 1889, Jane Wilson, daughter of Alfred Cox of Merrivale, New Zealand. — . George Henry Dunbar, born 21st March 1862. — . Charles Frederick Mackenzie, born 6th December 1864. — . Philip Hedgeland, born 4th July 1876. (1.) Sibella Euphemia. (2.) Cecilia Elizabeth. (3.) Margaret Louisa. (4.) Rachel Lucy. BRANCH OF ALDIE. liii. John Ross, first of Aldie, burgess of Tain (see ante) (witness, Sasine 19th July 1624. Sasine 19th November 1628, on charter to him by Robert Munro of the croft lands and mill of Aldie. Also confirmation of charter under the Great Seal 3d July 1637, by John, bishop of Ross, to the same effect). "John Ross of Aldie, sometime styllit Bone, uncle of Hugh Ross of Cunlich" (Sasine 4th May 1654). He married Bessie, daughter of John Ferguson, baillie of Tain, "his spouse," 31st October 1626. They had, liv. John. (See below.) lxiv. Andrew, "son of John of Aldie, student in Tain" (Sasine 4th January and 8th March 1654). liv. John, second of Aldie, burgess of Tain, son and heir of his father in the lands of Aldie, 22d July 1656 (Inq. spec. Ross et Crom.), married Mar- garet, daughter of William, son of Andrew Ross, Provost of Tain {MS. Ped.). They had, lv. William. (See bcloiv.) lxiii. John, "brother to William Ross, now of Aldie" (Sasine 8th January 1717). lv. William, third of Aldie (Sasine 15th August 1682), Commissioner of Supply 1689-90 (Acts of Parliament), tenant of the bishopric of Ross 1695-96, heir of John, his grandfather, 22d May 1700 (Inq. Gen. xlix. 71). Charter to him and Sibilla Mackenzie his spouse in liferent, John their eldest son, and his heirs-male in fee; to Thomas their second son, etc.; whom failing, 52 Rossiana. to Simon their third son, etc., of the half davoch lands of Balnagal, resigned by George Ross of Morinchie, confirmed 9th March 1703 (Great Seal). Sibilla was daughter of Kenneth Mackenzie of Coul, first Bart. (Sasine 22d November 1721). They had, lvi. John, died unmarried vit. pat., " jun. of Aldie " (Sasine 29th May 1708, on charter under Great Seal to him of the superiority of part of Little Allan). — . Thomas, died unmarried. lvii. Simon. (See below.) lxii. David, "son to William" (Sasine 25th March 1714, and 1st April 1725), M.D. London, Physician at Bristol. He mar- ried Rebecca, daughter of Dr. John Middleton, and had issue a son, John Middleton, who died young. Dr. Ross's will was dated 14th September 1756, and proved in London 29th August 1759. (1.) Sibilla. (2.) Elizabeth, married Hugh Ross of Brealangwell. (3.) Ann, married John Sutherland of Little Torboll. lvii. Simon of Rosehill, fourth of Aldie. ''son of William" (Sasine 8th January 1717). Commissary Depute of Ross 1739. Settlement of Aldie (Sasine 1st April 1725. ) 1 He married Ann, second daughter of George Munro of Newmore. They had, lviii. William, inherited Newmore by virtue of an entail made by his uncle, Lieut.-Colonel John Munro, 8th December 1747, on himself and his heirs whatsoever; on his eldest sister, Mary, wife of Gustavus Munro of Culrain ; on his second sister, Ann, wife of Simon Ross of Aldie; on his third sister, Isobel, wife of George Gray of Skibo; and the heirs-male of their bodies: whom failing, on their heirs-female; whom all failing, on David Ross of Inverchasely. Colonel Munro died s.f>. 1/49, also his eldest sister Mary in 1763, when the above William became " apparent heir of tailzie and provision." He died s.p. 9th December 1803, when David Ross, Lord Ankerville, inherited Newmore. (Memorial of Quarics for Lord Ankerville, 1804.) lix. Duncan. lx. Robert. lxi. David. ) They are thus given in a MS. Fed., but in the entail of Newmore they stand, George, Robert, Duncan. George died ^Particular Register of Sasines, Inverness, vol. viii. fol. 216. Entail of Aldie, under Great Seal, in favour of Simon Ross of Rosehill, son of William Ross of Aldie; of David Ross, son of William; of William, son of Hugh Ross of Brealangwell and Elizabeth his wife; whom failing, to the other heirs-male of William and Elizabeth Ross; whom failing, to William, son of John Sutherland of Little Torboll, and the heirs-male of his body; to the heirs-male of Sibilla Ross, eldest daughter; whom all failing, to the heirs and assignees whomsoever of the said William Ross of the lands and mill of Aldie. Dated at Edinburgh, 26th July 1723. Br audi of Nonnakiln. 53- unmarried before 1764. Robert, Ensign in Colonel Amherst's Regiment, executor to Dr. Ross's will 1759, died unmarried. Duncan, also unmarried, died — December 1764. When his eldest and only surviving brother succeeded to Newmore he claimed the estate of Aldie {Petition, 21st February 1764), but dying before his claim was allowed, his cousin, John Middleton, son of David Ross, M.D., carried on the suit. 1 BRANCH OF NONNAKILN. lxiii. David Ross of Noon Hill, Newnakill or Nonnakiln {see ante), styled "in Drummeddeth, brother to Mr. John Ross" {Reg. P. C. 1587-8), "late portioner of Nonnakiln, deceased" (Sasine 5th November 1630). He married , and left a son, George. In 1586 James vi. confirmed a charter by the late John, bishop of Ross, granting to Alexander Ross of Little Tarrell, eldest brother of the above David, and Isobell, his wife, the lands of Newnakill {Reg. Sec. Sig. vol. liv. f. 17). 2 BRANCH OF FYCHIE, LITTLE ALLAN, AND EYE. lxv. Mr. Walter Ross, " sometime of Little Allan " styled " of Fychie " in MS. Pedigree, "of Eister Little Allan" (Sasine 30th April 1608), brother of deceased Alexander, younger of Little Tarrell {Reg. P. C). He married Agnes, daughter of David Ross of Balmachie, and had, lxvi. Alexander. {See below.) lxxii. Donald, married Bessie, daughter of John Ferguson, baillie of Tain. They had. lxxiii. John, who married , daughter of Alexander Ross, baillie of Tain, and had, lxxiv. Donald, who married , daughter of Alexander Munro of Daan, and had, lxxv. Donald. lxxvi. George, married Janet , and had, lxxvii. Alexander, who married , and had, Ixxviii. Charles. lxvi. Alexander, "son of Mr. Walter" (Sasine 25th March 1611), por- tioner of Little Allan (Sasine 30th June 1624), styled "of Eye" {MS. Ped.). He married Agnes, daughter of Alexander Sutherland of Little Torboll, and gave a charter to her of part of the lands of Eister Little Allan, in the barony of Balnagown, dated 17th May 1624. Alexander " of the Yie " died 5th April 1659, and was buried at Feme {Kal. of F.). He left, lxvii. James. {See below.) 1 Captain Simon Mackenzie, second son of Kenneth Mackenzie, second of Langwell, eventually inherited Aldie, and added the name of Ross to his own. 2 John Ross, portioner of Newnakill (Sasine 1st April 1625 and 10th July 1626), granted a charter of part of Newnakill to Nicol Ross of Cunlich and Alexander his eldest son. On 19th March 1639 he granted another portion to Hector Munro in Tarlogie and Jean Munro, his spouse. Thomas Ross, notary, was portioner of Newnakill 7th July 1641 (Gen. Reg. of Deeds, vol. 532). In 1652 Hugh Ross was served heir to his father, Alexander of Pitkerie, in the three oxgang? of the lands of Newnakill (Retours). 54 Rossiana. lxxi. Alexander, went abroad and married (MS. Pcd.). lxvii. James, "of Eister Little Allan and Eye" (Sasine 5th August 1671). He married Jean, daughter of Colin Mackenzie of Kincraig, " his spouse " (Sasine 18th October 1700). They had, Angus. (5.) David. (6.) John. (7.) Simon. (MS. Pcd.) lxviii. Charles. (See below.) lxx. Hugh "son of James" (Sasine 2d September 1698). He mar- ried Jean, daughter of Thomas Bain, and had a numerous family — (1.) James. (2.) Thomas. (3.) Charles. (4.) lxviii. Charles, "their eldest son" (Sasine 18th October 1700); "servitor to William Brody of Whytwray, Advocate;" "writer in Edinburgh." 1703; "of Ey " (witness Sasine 3d May 1726). He obtained a charter from Sir David Ross of Balnagown of the half davoch lands of Eister Little Allan (Sasine on it 21st January 1701). He married , daughter of Rory Macleod of Cambuscurry, leaving. Ixix. David, "eldest son of deceased Charles Ross of Eye" (Sasine 4th May 1731). BRANCH OF CIULICH, OR CUNLICH, OR CUNLICHMOIR, NOW CALLED EASTER ARDROSS, PARISH OF ROSSKEEN. lxxix. Nicholas Ross (sec ante). "portioner of Cunlichmoir " (witness, Sasine 25th March 1611). Charter by Nicol Ross of Cunlichmoir to Alex- ander his son and apparent heir of the half davoch lands of Newnakill (Sasine on it 1st April 1625). "Of Cunlich " (Sasine 10th July 1626). He married first Katherine. daughter of Hugh Ross of Achnacloich (MS. Pcd.), and had. lxxx. Alexander. (See below.) lxxxii. Hugh. (See post.) He married, secondly, Margaret, second daughter of Alexander Mackenzie, fifth of Gairloch, " his spouse " (Sasine 20th January 1627, on charter by Patrick, bishop of Ross, to him, to his wife, to Alexander his son and apparent heir, of part of Newnakill, and Sasine 1st April 1625 on charter by Patrick, bishop of Ross, to him, to his wife, to Alexander his son and apparent heir, of part of Newnakill, and Sasine 1st April 1625 on charter by Alexander Mackenzie, fear of Gairloch, to the said Alexander, of half of the lands of Cunlichmoir in the barony of Delnie). They had, lxxxvi. Mr. David, "their eldest son" (Sasine 15th October 1624), "sometime schoolmaster at Alness" (witness, Sasine 8th March 1649). lxxx. Alexander, "apparent of Cunlich and of Cunlichmoir" (Sasine 10th July 1626), "of Cunlich." 4th May 1632. He obtained part of Wester Gany, and died 9th June 1648 (Kal of Feme), having married , by whom he had, lxxxi. Alexander, " fear of Cunlich." 1635. lxxxii. Hugh (see ante), "second son of Nicol, portioner of Cunlich- moir" (Sasine 12th June 1629). In the old MS. Pedigree he is styled "of Ciulich." He married Margaret, daughter of Sutherland of Forbon, and had. Ross of Little Allan and Muldarg. 55 lxxxiii. Walter. (See belozv.) lxxxiv. Robert, married , daughter of John Sutherland of Innerlaine and had, lxxxv. John Ross, " the master mason." lxxxiii. Walter, Provost of Tain, mentioned in numerous Sasines 1682- 1702, possibly "Walter Ross of Cowillich, 1689" (Acts of Parliament). He married Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas Ross of Morangie, " his spouse " (Sasine 15th August 1682), and had, Elizabeth, " daughter and heiress to the deceased Walter Ross, and spouse to Captain Donald Macleod of Geanies " (Sasine 3d May 1626); "relict" (Sasine 27th April 1638). P. ROSS OF LITTLE ALLAN AND MULDARG. 1. John Ross of Little Allan, obtained a charter from Thomas Ross, com- mendator of Feme, " his relative," of the lands of Muldarg and Knockandrow, dated at Elgin, 1st January 1582, and confirmed by James vi., 10th May 1587 (Great Seal). On 13th June 1598, Robert Ross in Little Rany gives caution not to harm John Ross of Muldarg (Reg. P. Conn.). He resigned to George Ross of Balnagown (17) part of the lands of Little Allan, called Bellinger, who granted them to William Innes of Calrossie, and Elizabeth Gordon, his spouse (Sasine 24th July 1607). 1 He married , and had, 2. Hugh. (See below.) [1.] Janet, married John M'Culloch of Kindeace, provost of Tain (Bore-brieve of Alexander Ross (69)). In the Kalender of Feme it is stated that Margaret Ross, wife of John M'Culloch, died 7th December 1629, and was buried at Ferae. 2. Hugh Ross "apparent of Muldarg," in 1598 (Reg. P. Court.). He is said to have had a daughter Jean, who married Thomas Munro. third of Kilmorack (Hist, of Munro. Celtic Mag.). The lands of Muldarg must have soon passed away from the Ross family, for, in 1638, Hector Douglas is styled " of Muldarg," his wife being Janet Ross. His grandson, also Hector Douglas of Muldarg, served and retoured to the deceased Hector of Muldarg, his uncle, became of Meikle Ranie, and had for wife Margaret Ross. Their eldest son, Hector Douglas of Muldarg, sergeant in the third regiment of foot guards, disposed of part of Little Ranie and other lands to David M'Culloch (whose mother was Isobel Ross), from whom by charter of adjudication under the Great Seal the town and lands of Muldarg and others passed to David Ross in Milntown, eldest son and heir of the late Robert Ross in Fearn (Sasine 24th January 1751). ROSS OF AND IN ANNAT. 1624, June 6th, William Ross " of Annat " was drowned in the water of Oikel, and was buried at Feme (Kalender). William Ross "of Annat" was witness to Sasine 30th June 1624, and again 31st January 1628. throughout the whole of this work the notices of Sasines (unless otherwise stated) refer to the Secretary's Register of Sasines, Inverness, in two volumes, commencing about 1606, and then to the Particular Register of Sasines, Inverness, from about 1624. 56 Rossiana. In volume 45 of Edinburgh Testaments, under the date 3d July 1609, there is the Will and Inventory of the goods pertaining to the deceased Robert Ross " in Annat," in the parish of Nig and shire of Inverness, who died in April 1602, given up by himself, 24th April 1602. Free i884, 15s. He discharges all former Wills, and all assignations made by him to Robert (sic) Ross, his brother german, or to any other person or persons preceding the above date, and nominates Donald Ross, apparent of Priesthill, executor. Item, to Mariorie Urquhart, his spouse, the profit of 500 merks yearly, during her lifetime; Item, the said Donald Ross to be tutor to Alexander Ross, his lawful son, and to the rest of the bairnes, as need shall require; Item, he leaves to his natural son, Ferquhar Ross, 100 merks, " together with his haill wapounes whatsomever during the minoritie of the said Alexander, his lawful son. - ' which armour the said Ferquhar is to deliver to the said Alexander when he attains his majority. " Item, he leaves the tua lasses and their geir to their moder, the said Mariore Wrquhart." Confirmed 3d July 1609. George Munro of Tarrell is cautioner. Probably the same Ferquhar Ross, " in Leachavak," was witness, 16th April 1633, to Sasine on charter by Andrew Ross, burgess of Tain, to Alex- ander Ross of Pitkerie, and John Ross of Aldie, of part of the lands of Leachavak in the abbacy of Feme. Hugh Ross " in Annat " was witness to a Sasine 17th September 1640. ROSS IN ARDGYE. 1. Farquhar Ross (no paternity given) was father of 2. William. (See below.) 3. John (witness Sasine 16th February 1654). 2. William Ross " in Ardgye " obtained a tack from David Ross of Bal- nagown (20) of part of the lands of Ardgye and Bonmayres. He married Margaret Ross (Sasine 22d August 1682), and had. 4. Hugh, "eldest son" (witness Sasine 5th November 1688). 5. William. 6. Alexander (witness Sasine 24th July 1682). Another John Ross " in Ardgye " appears as witness to a Sasine in 1630, David Ross in 170S, and William Ross in 1717. ROSS OF BALLIVAT. The name, being always spelt Ros in the Inverness Sasines, was included in the list of descendants of the Earls of Ross on the Key Chart. This family was one of the numerous families of Rose. ROSS OF AND IN BALLINTRAID. In 1527, James v. granted the lands of Ballintraid and others to Thomas Ross ; no paternity stated. In 1541, Mr. David Dunbar, chaplain of the chap- lainry of the Virgin Mary, in the parish of Kilmuir Meddat, granted the lands of Priesthill to Thomas Ross of Ballintraid and Elizabeth Dunbar his wife. Thomas Ross appears as grantee " of the chappellands of Delny " (Oris- Par. Scot. vol. ii, pt. ii, p. 464). Donald Ross "of Ballintraid" died 15th December 1614 (Kal. of Feme). Ross of and in Ballonc. 57 William Ross "in Ballintraid " married Agnes Innes, "his spouse" (Sasine 2d August 1639, on precept of dare constat by George, Earl of Sea- forth, to her in the lands of Kirkskeath). They had a daughter, Margaret, spouse to Thomas Dingwall in Knockshortie (Sasine 15th December 1642, on charter to them by Thomas Ross of Priesthill, of part of the lands of Over Cambuscurrie). David Ross "in Ballintraid" appears as witness 1708. In the Cromarty registers of marriage, 12th November 1712, Alexander Ross in Ballintraid, in the parish of Kilmure, and Helen Hood, were booked. ROSS OF AND IN BALLONE, BALON OR BELLON. Walter Ross of Shandwick (143), who died 10th June 1531, by one of his numerous wives, was father of Nicholas Ross of Balon. 1. Donald Ross "of Ballone " (no paternity stated) gave a charter of these lands (Sasine on it, 30th June 1606) to his eldest son, 2. Nicholas. (See below.) 3. Hugh (Sasine 20th December 1606). 4. Walter (Sasine as above), "sons of Donald, in Ballone" caution, 1595 (Reg. P. Coun.). 2. Nicholas Ross was father of 5. Donald Ross, " heir of Nicol Ross of Bellon, his father," 20th December 1636 (Inq. Gen. xv. 277), "heir of his grandfather, Donald Ross, in the lands of Bellon," 20th December 1636 (Inq. Spec. Ross et Crom.). He married Margaret Mackenzie, "his spouse" (Sasine 2d September 1642, on charter to her of the liferent of the lands of Ballone). Donald Ross, "sometime of Ballone, and Margaret Mackenzie, his spouse," obtained a charter from Malcolm Ross (41), son of David Ross of Pitcalnie, of part of the lands of Midganie and others (Sasine 16th November 1652), which lands he cedes by charter, in 1655, to Mr. Thomas Mackenzie of Inverlael. In 1655 he sold Balon to Mr. William Ross of Shandwick (152). Walter Ross, son of Angus, in Bellone, witness to Sasine 12th August 1630. Alexander Ross in Bellone 1638-50. Andrew Ross " in Bellone " 1642-60. " of Bellone " 19th December 1664, possibly Andrew Ross, sixth of Shandwick (154). ROSS IN EDDERTON, THEN OF RIVES AND PRIESTHILL. I. David Ross in Edderton, whose paternity is not stated, obtained from David Ross of Balnagown (20) a tack of part of the lands of Edderton (Sasine 22d April 1686). He married Christian Murray, "his spouse" ( Sasine 3d October 1698) ; they had a tack of the mill of Edderton, renewed to her, as a widow, and to her eldest son, by the said laird of Balnagown. They had, 2. Arthur. (See below.) 3. David, "brother of Arthur" (Sasine 8th February 1712). Captain David, "shipmaster of Dumfries" (Sasine 10th October 1741), "of the Isle of Man" (Shandzvick Letters). He was nearly related to the Shandwick family, and kept up a correspondence 58 Rossiana. with them. One letter, dated Douglas, 22d October 1747, written to Alexander Ross (169), at Gothenburg, begins — Dear Cousen Shandy — I have your most agreeable favour of 12th ult. which only came to hand two days ago. I cou'd not imagine what was come of you this long time. If I had known you had been at home I wou'd certainly have desired your assistance in pur- chasing our Teas when I wrote to your Broth 1 " George (172). . . . I remain, my dear Sandy, your affectionate Cousen and ever ready servant, David Ross. 2. Arthur Ross "of Rives, and then of Priesthill, son to David Ross in Edderton " (Sasine 29th June 1696). Charter under the Great Seal to Arthur Ross in Edderton of the half davoch lands of Milntown of Westray, which had belonged to George, Master of Ross (Sasine on it 28th February 1710). In 171 1 he was styled of Torray. Roderick M'Leod of Catboll dis- poned to him the town and lands of Priesthill (Sasine 17th October 1730). He died 7th October 1742, and was buried at Edderton, 1 having married Jean Ross, "his spouse" (Sasine 2d May 1721), on disposition to Arthur and Jean Ross, by Alexander Bain of Knockbain, of the town and lands of Rives. They had an only son, 4. David, a judge in 1747; he registered Arms 12th June 1767, as follows : — Gn. three lions rampant arg. armed and langued az., within a border of the second for difference. Crest, a dexter hand holding a laurel garland proper. Motto, Nobilis est ira leonis. He died 13th December 1781, having married Margaret, third daughter of James Sutherland of Clyne (Sasine on marriage- contract, 10th October 1741), when Arthur Ross disponed to his son the lands of Rives and others disponed to him by Gustavus Munro of Culrain. She died shortly before her husband, leaving a daughter, Jean, married to Mr. Alexander Baillie of Knockbreak ; their son, William, was baptized at Tain, 20th March 1771. The property had been sold some time before the death of David Ross to Sir John Ross. a The burying-place of the Rosses of Priesthill is at the East end of Edderton Church. In the wall of the old chapel there is a tablet to the memory of Arthur Ross, but being of stucco, the inscription is nearly obliterated: — Oct. 9. 1752 Hie conducunt Exuviae Arthuri Ross de Priesthill Obiit Oct. 7 a.d. 1742 Monumentum hoc posuit Davidus Ross de Priesthill unicus Filius Ross of Mid Gany. 59 Mr. William Ross (whose paternity is not stated) took his M. A. degree at the University of St. Andrews, 13th May 1653. He was minister at Edderton for fourteen years, and dying there, 1679, was buried in the church- yard, where a tombstone marks his resting-place. He appeared as witness to Sasines in 1666 and 1670. Andrew M'Culloch of Glastulich disponed to him part of the lands of Monakill, in the parish of Rosskeen (Sasine 1st May 1668). Also in Edderton churchyard there are two large flat stones, side by side ; on one, the Arms of Ross, and the initials T. R. above the shield, and K. R. below, with W. R. and J. R. at the upper corners of the square on which the shield is cut, and below the square, various emblems ; the following inscription runs round the stone : — here lies the corps of ane honest man CALLED THOMAS ROSSE DEPARTED OCT. I/O4, AND KATRINE HIS SPOUSE WHO DEPARTED FEB. I708 AND LIVED AT ARDMORE. On the other stone, bearing the Arms of Rose, there is an inscription in memory of Patrick and Issobel Rose, children of Andrew Rose, master miller in West ray, who died 15th January 1683. There is a tradition that these two families intermarried ; very probably the ancestor of the " honest man " was Thomas Ros in Mylntown of Westray, and parish of Eddertayne, who died — April 1593 (Testaments Edin. vol. 30). Amount of inventory and debts £2246, 8s. 8d. Given up by his near kinsman, George Ross (tenth) of Bal- nagown, administrator to Alexander, Walter, and Donald his sons. Will confirmed 15th July 1597. In 1649 (Sasine 13th February), David Ross (twelfth) of Balnagown lets the lands of Miltown of Westray to Mr. Thomas Ross of Morangie for his life, and nineteen years after. ROSS OF MID GANY. 1. Donald Ross of Mid Gany was in all probability a descendant of Nicholas Ross, chaplain of Dunskaith, 19th Abbott of Feme, who purchased the estate of Geanies, circa 1543 (See Morangie). There is a complaint made against Donald Ross, and many other persons, 24th April 1592, for carrying off a certain John Ross from the " Chanoury " of Ross, prisoner, to Balna- gown (Reg. P. Conn.). Styled " portioner of Mid Ganies," he granted by charter to his eldest son, Nicholas, the quarter lands of Mid Ganies (Sasine 30th June 1606). He gave the sowings of three bolls of barley to John Paterson in Wester Ganies, and Jonet Ross his spouse (Sasine on charter 16th June 1607). He had, 1. Nicholas. 2. Walter. 3. Hugh. In 1631 William Corbat had become a portioner of Mid Ganies (Sasine on charter nth August). John Corbat of Little Ranie granted part of the davoch lands of Mid Ganies, with houses, to Malcolm Ross (41), afterwards of Kindeace, and to Katherine Corbat his spouse (Sasine on charter 30th May 1649). In the Inverness Sasines there is no further mention of Mid Ganies until David Ross, as portioner of Mid Ganies, gave a bond of corroboration of the quarter lands of Mid Ganies to George Ross of Morangie (Sasine 17th March 1694). This David had two sons, Robert and James. 60 Rossiana. ROSS OF EASTER GANY. Alexander Clones of Easter Gany had an only son Alexander ( Sasine 20th December 1606). Walter Ross was tenant in Easter Gany, and had a son Alexander (Sasine nth April 1633). ROSS OF WESTER GANY. 1. Alexander Ross was " portioner of Wester Gany" 3d August 1598 (Reg. P. Conn.), "of West Gany" (witness Sasine 30th June 1606). He died 2d August 1608 (Kal. of Feme) leaving a son, 2. Alexander, heir-male of Alexander Ross, his father, portioner of Wester Gany, in the town and davoch lands of Langoll-Strathokell 13th March 1621 (Inq. Spec. Ross ct Crom.). He married Margaret Ross "his spouse" (Sasine 7th June 1625), and had a son William, heir-male of his father in three-quarters of the town and lands of Langoll-Strathokell (Retours, 3d April 1621). George Ross, who had been tenant in Wester Gany, left a widow, Katherine Munro (Sasine 7th June 1625). In 1629 an Andrew Ross was tenant. James Sutherland was also a portioner of Wester Gany, having married Isobell Clunes, who married, secondly, Alexander Ross there (Sasine 5th November 1630). ROSS OF INVERCHASLEY. First Family of Ross so Styled. 1. George Ross (whose paternity is not stated) was called "in Inver- chasley," 20th February 1626, and "of Inverchasley," 19th November 1629. His eldest son was 2. Alexander, "'portioner of," 25th November 1630, "of Inverchasley" 27th December 1639; the last mention of him is as a witness to Sasine 18th September 1650. In 1695, William Sutherland, brother of Alexander Lord Duffus, seems to have been in possession of Inverchasley, which with other lands he disponed to David Ross (50), second son of Malcolm Ross of Kindeace. ROSS IN KINCARDINE. Donald Ross "in Kincardine" (Sasine 14th January 1625), on discharge of reversion by Hugh Ross, fear of Easterfearn (102). He married Elspet Corbat, and had, John, "eldest son" (Sasines 22d April 1641, and 15th July 1642). Walter Ross "in Kincardine" (witness Sasine 12th October 1648). Robert Ross "in Kincardine" (witness, 16th February 1654). Alexander Ross, Robert's son, "in Kincardine" (Sasine 4th August 1652, and 29th January 1674). Charles Ross there 1674. 1. Robert Ross " in Kincardine," witness to a Sasine 9th June 1708, was a relation of the Shandwick family; he married , and had, 2. Alexander Ross " in Kincardine." yEt. 60 in 1770. 3. David Ross, writer, Edinburgh, known as " long David," died s. p. — April 1770, /Et. 70, having married Susanna Murray. He Ross of Kindeace. 61 left some money to his cousin William Ross, afterwards of Shandwick (171). His will was confirmed in Edinburgh 22d May 1770 (Commissariat of Edin. Tests, vol. 121). [1.] Margaret, eldest daughter. [2.] Janet, living at Liverpool 1770. ROSS OF KINDEACE. First Family of Ross so Styled. Donald Ross, a younger son of Nicholas Ross, Abbot of Feme (see Mor- angie), was styled "of Litill Kinteis ;" there is no document to prove it, but very probably he was father of 1. Walter Ross " in Mekle Kindeace," who appears as witness to a deed, 28th August 1565; on 4th June 1594 he purchased these lands, with a clause of reversion, from James Dunbar of Tarbart and Marjory Ogilvie, his wife {Kindeace Writs). Walter signs the deed of purchase, "w* my hand at ye pen led be ye notar. ... at my speciale comand Because my self can no* wrytt." He married , and had a son, 2. Hugh Ross of Kindeace, " son and heir-apparent of Walter," 28th August, 1565. In 1607 he is styled " portioner of Little Kindeis." He obtained a charter under the Great Seal of the lands of Easter Kindeace, 20th July 1615, to hold of the Crown. He died 5th August 1622 (Kal. of Feme), having married Margaret Gordon, "relict of Hugh Ross of Kindeace, and now spouse to Thomas Ross of Risollis " (Renunciation of Easter Kindeace in favour of Gilbert Robertson, 17th April 1650). By her first husband she had, 3. Walter, " son and heir of the late Hugh Ross, son of Walter Ross of Little Kindeis (Sasine 8th June 1648), heir-male of his father in the house and lands of East Kindeace, 29th July 1623 (Inq. Spec. Ross ct Crom.). He obtained the lands of Achmoir, in the barony of Delnie, from John, Lord Balmerinoch (Sasine on charter 15th October 1624). He was bound over not to harm George Munro of Meikell Tarrell, 15th March 1593 (Reg. P. Coun.). He disposed of Kindeace to William Robertson, merchant, burgess of Inverness, and 31st August 1649 of Morehwater and Pitmaduthie, by charter, to Gilbert Robertson of Kindeace. Sometime " stylit of Kindis, now in Easter Rarichies " (Sasine 16th February 1653). He died 9th September 1659, and was buried at Nigg (Kal. of Feme), having married Barbara Pape, " his spouse," 1649. He had a son, 4. Charles, " son of late Walter Ross of Easter Kindeis," 15th November 1661 (Kindeace Writs). It has been impossible to connect and chronicle in regular order the fol- lowing names : — Hugh Ross " of Kindeis." renunciation by William Fraser, sometime of Mullochie, and Janet Ross, his spouse, in his favour of the south half of Easter Kindeis (Sasine 1st June 1626). He had a son, George, " heir of Hugh Ross of Kindeis his father " (Retours, 26th July 1643, xvii. 270). 62 Rossi a ii a. William Ross "of Easter Kindeis " (Sasine 30th April 1608). The follow- ing appears to be his son — John, "son of William Ross, portioner of Little Kindeis" (witness Sasine 1st April 1607), and "son of William, portioner of Easter Kindeis" (witness, Sasine 30th April 1608). William Ross " of Kindeis," who cannot be the same as the preceding, appears as father of Charles Ross, writer, Edinburgh, who, in 1703, obtained a grant of Arms from the Lyon Office — Gu. 3 roses slipped in fees betwixt as many lioncells rampant arg. Above the shield and helmet befitting his degree mantled gu. doubled arg. Crest, a fox issuant out of the torse with a rose in his mouth proper. Motto, a Rosam ne rode. He married Barbara Coupar, a relative of Mr. David Coupar of New Grange, writer, Edinburgh, and dying October 1706, left two daughters, who were served and retoured as heirs portioners. [1.] Katherine, married David Coupar, writer, Edinburgh. [2.] Elizabeth, baptized 14th September 1683 (Edin. Regs.). His will was confirmed in Edinburgh 18th February 1608, his daughters being the only executors. They assigned to David Ross, writer, Edinburgh, all the property they inherited from their father (Disposition dated 15th June 1714, registered 19th September 1732, Reg. of Deeds, Mackenzie Office, vol. 152). David Ross, by a disposition dated 16th April 1715, declared that he only held the property in trust for David Coupar, and disponed the same to him. The lands of Kindeace had long passed away to other families. Easter Kindeace, with the house and mill erected by Walter Ross (3) pertained heritably in 1720 to Alexander Duff of Drummuir, and were by him ceded to Alexander Ross (97), late merchant in Cracow. Yet the descendants of the old family still staled themselves "of Kindeace;" Walter Ross, so desig- nated, is named in the settlement made in 1766 by Hugh Ross of Kerse (157) of his estates. Donald Ross, " in Meikle Kindeis," or " in Kindeis," appears frequently as witness to Sasines between 1631 and 1691. Alexander Ross, " in Kindeis," in 1633. Hugh Ross, " in Kindeis," between 1650-1671. Andrew Ross, " in Kindeis," tenant, appears from 1650 to 1659 when he assigns his rights to Malcolm Ross of Knockan (41). ROSS OF KIRKSKEATH. 1. Hugh Ross "in Kirkskeath," 1607, "of Kirkskeath" (Sasines 12th April 1617, and 24th May 1630), was nephew of the late Walter Ross of Rhiznell (Sasine 1st June 1648), who had a son, William (Sasines 30th April and 5th June 1629). Hugh married Christian Ross, "his spouse," 1st April 1607, and had, 2. Alexander. (See bclozv.) 3. Walter, "son of Hugh Ross of Kirkskeath" (Sasines 13th August 1630, and 22d March 1639). Ross of and in Knockbreak. 63 4. William, witness to a deed 3d November 1634 (Reg. of Deeds. Edinb.). 2. Alexander Ross, second of Kirkskeath, ''notary public" (Sasine 1st August 1632), "fear of Kirkskeath," 1636, "of Kirkskeath," 1644. He married, first, — , by whom he had, 5. Alexander. Captain Alexander Ross, of Kirkskeath, was a fre- quent witness to Sasines between 1660 and 1693. He married, secondly, Helen Hoss, " his present spouse," by whom he had, 6. Hugh, "their son" (Sasine 12th August, 1657). In the Tain Registers there is mention of Andrew Ross " in Kirkskeath," whose daughter Christian was baptized 5th March 1725. ROSS OF AND IN KNOCKBREAK. William Ross " of Knockbreak," 3d November 1679. His eldest daughter, Janet, married John Sutherland of Meikle Torbo (Sasine on marriage-con- tract, by which the said Janet was infeft in a liferent annuity). Walter Ross, Provost of Tain, and Mr. Robert Ross, of Logie, witnesses. Hugh Ross, " tacksman of Knockbreak," died before 2d March 1733, leaving Donald, his eldest son, " tacksman in the Hill of Tain," who became excise officer in Tain, and married Mary Munro (Sasine 2d July 1754). From Roderick M'Culloch of Glastulich he obtained a precept of clare constat of an annual rent from the lands of Little Reynie (Sasine 20th July 1745). Katherine, daughter of the above Hugh Ross, married 1739 her relative, Donald M'Lendris, who was born 1713, and assumed the name of Ross at the same time as his brother David. (See 165). She died at Aldie 1771, and he December 1765 ; they had, 1. David, born 7th August 1740; he succeeded his uncle, the above- named David, as commissary-clerk of Ross, and town-clerk of Tain. [1.] Margaret, died 1759. [2.] Elspat, married Donald Ross, tacksman in Milne of Hiltoun, and had, Hugh, baptized at Tain loth February 1769. Witness, Mr. David Ross, town-clerk. David, baptized 1st March 1784. Witnesses, Captain David Ross, and David Ross, commissary-clerk. [3.] Katherine, married William Ross. [4.] Marjory, died 1793, having married David Taloch. [5-] Mary, died 1790, having married James Ross. In the churchyard at Edderton there is an enclosure, in which there is a marble slab with the following inscription: — Here are deposited in the burying-place of his forefathers — The mortal remains of Hugh Ross of Knockbreak — who departed this life on the 12th March 1822 — JEtatis LII. ROSS OF KNOCKGARTIE. 1. William Ross, master mason in Knockgartie, died before 21st July 1696, leaving a widow, Christian Munro, "his spouse" (Sasines 2d October 1656, and 16th March 1668), by whom he had, 64 Rossiana. 2. Donald Ross "of Knockgartie," their eldest son (Sasines 14th June 1675, and 2d March 1695) ; " late of Knockgartie, now in Rosskein " (Sasine 30th January 1699). Sir David Ross of Balnagown (14) granted him a charter of the lands of Little Allan (Sasine 21st July 1676). 3. Walter, mason, made a disposition of the lands of Knockgartie, Tormoir, and others in the barony of Balnagown, to James Ross, town-clerk of Nairn, which lands were impignorat by Mr. Thomas Rigg of Eddernie and the late David Ross of Balnagown for 5000 merks to William Ross, master mason, and were by him disponed in liferent to his spouse and to his children in fee (Sasine 21st July 1696). Walter became "of Achyhyll, Achyle, or Achayeil " (witness to a Sasine 18th August 170S). He died before 2d April 1723, having married Margaret Bayne, by whom he had three sons, Andrew, Donald and Charles. 4. David. 5. Alexander. [1.] Agnes, married John Mackenzie in Milntown (Sasine 10th Febru- ary 1697). [2.] Helen, married Walter Ross, in Milntown, mason. [3.] Issobell, married Robert Lillic. gardener in Tain. ROSS OF LOGY OR LOGIE. 1572, William Ross, Thomason (sic in Fasti) exhorter at Logie Easter 1567- 1574; Newynkill, Kincardin, Kilmur Easter, and Logy Easter were under him, he sustaining the reader (Fasti Reel. Scot.). 1. Hugh Ross 1 "of Logy," whose mother was Marjory Dunbar, and who died before 15th December 1572 (Reg. Sec. Sig. vol. xli. fol. 26), leaving Elizabeth Cumming, " his relict." If the paternity given in the Fasti of the above William be correct, Hugh Ross of Logy was not the father of, 2. William Ross " in Log} - ," who obtained a charter from John, Bishop of Ross, to him and Margaret Munro. his spouse, of the lands of Logy in the barony of Nig, in conjunct fee and liferent, and to the heirs-male of their body. Dated at Canonry of Ross 1st April 1567, Mr. Thomas Ross, rector of Alnes, witness. 2 Confirmed by James vi. at Falkland, 3d August 1586 (Great Seal, xxxvi. 136). He died . — November 1592; in his will he is described as " of Logy, parson of Roskeen," his son Alexander was executor, the amount of free gear being £445, 10s. 2d. His will was confirmed 28th July 1598, Ferquhar Munro, portioner oi Little Kindeis, being cautioner (Commiss. of Rdin. Tests, vol. 32). He was succeeded by, Correction, for which I am indebted to Mr. D. Murray Rose. — Hugh Ross, called by me first of logy, was Hugh Rose, son of John Rose, first of Ballivat, by Marjory Dunbar. He was murdered in 1572, his widow Elizabeth Cumming, being alive in 15S6. On 16th September 1572 the Regent Morton wrote to Kilravock to protect the children of Hugh of Logy, " his kynnisman." F. N. R. s This Mr. Thomas Ross seems not to be mentioned in the Fasti. Ross of Logy or Logic. 65 3. Alexander Ross "of Logy," 2d January 1601 (Reg. P. Conn.), "son of the late William." 6th July 1610; he married , and had, 4. Thomas. (See below.) [1.] Elizabeth, who is said to have married John Munro of Aldie. 4. Thomas Ross of Logy, with consent of William Ross his eldest son and Donald his second son, gave a charter of the lands of Logie Easter to Mr. David Ross, minister at Logie (181) (Sasine 30th May 1630), and, 2d April 1633, a charter to Christian Ross, his spouse, of a liferent in part of the lands of Culkengie; in Sasine 22d December 1636 she is styled his relict ; they had, 5. William, apparent of Logie (Sasine 12th June 1624), "heir of William Ross of Logie, his guidsir," 21st October 1649 (Inq. Gen. xxiv. 79), "heir of Thomas Ross of Logie, his father," 7th January 1635 (Inq. Gen. xv. 160). Most probably he mar- ried Issobell Sutherland (Sasine 12th August 1634). On Logie passing to another family, there seems to be no further notice of him. 6. Donald. (Sec below.) [i.j Katherine. married to Hugh Ross of Kilravock (Sasine 15th April 1625), charter from Simon, Lord Lovat, of a liferent to her in the lands of Wester Leyis. 6. Donald. " second son." Cliarter, dated at Logie 16th April 1627, to him from his father of half of the church lands of Priesthill, and in 1630 of the lands of Dalnaclevach. In 1632 Donald ceded the lands of Priesthill to Andrew Munro of Delnies. He obtained a charter from Isabella and Margaret Sutherland, with consent of William Poss her spouse, to him and his wife. Janet Mackenzie, of the lands of Torranliah (Sasine 12th August 1634), and was thereafter styled "of Torranliah; " they had. 7. Alexander. (See below.) [1.] Elizabeth. 7. Alexander, " son to Donald Ross of Torranliah " (witness Sasine 16th March 1665); "commissar depute of Ross" (Sasine 8th July 1681); "late commissar depute," 20th October 1686, and 9th September 1695. He mar- ried ■ , and had, 8. Walter. (See belozv.) 9. David, writer, Edinburgh, died February 1718. 8. Mr. Walter Ross, minister at Kilmuir Easter, heir special to his grandfather, Donald Ross of Torrenliah. Executor and nearest-of-kin to his father, and to his brother David. His father's will confirmed first 6th December 1721, and again 21st January 1726 (Commiss. Edin. Tests, vols. 88. 90). He studied at Aberdeen, was ordained 15th September 1715, and died 29th December 1733, having married Katharine Wilson, who married secondly, Mr. Daniel Beton, minister of Rcsskeen (Fasti Eeel. Scot.). Mr. Walter "was held of high repute in Ross and Cromarty" (Old Letter). 66 Rossiana. ROSS OF MEEDAT. i. David Ross, "portioner of Meddat " (Sasine 226. August 1626), "por- tioner of Meikle Meddat " 19th June 1627, " in Meddat, portioner of Pitcalzean," 13th March 1653. was perhaps the second son of Walter Ross, third of Balmachy (193). He married Mary Urquhart. and had, 2. Colin, "son and heir to David Ross in Meddat" (Sasine 27th January 1676). 3. Walter " Davidson in Meddat," 22d May 1663. 4. Robert, " son to deceased David Ross in Meddat " (Sasine 15th May 1650). Heir of David Ross, sometime in Meddat, his father (Retours, 2d September 1685). On 18th March 1716, he is described as "now in Bellendrumy ; " his eldest son was named David (Sasine 8th March 1710). In the Sasine of 15th May 1650, George Ross in Meddat, witness, is also mentioned. ROSS OF MIDFEARN OR MIDFAIRNIE. Alexander Ross, styled "of Midfairne " (Sasine 12th August 1634), obtained in 1637 from Robert Gray of Creich the renunciation of the easter half of the davoch lands of Wester Fairnie (Sasine 29th May). In 1638, he had a brother Donald living. He married Issobell, daughter of Mr. John Mackenzie of Balmaduthie, and by charter gave her the liferent of his lands. From a Sasine dated 13th March 1640 it would appear that Alexander was a portioner of Drugellie, thus designated he and his wife were infeft in the lands of Keandruife. Their daughter, Martha, is said to have married George, seventh son of William Munro, third of Achany. In 1624 there was an Alexander Ross in Wester Ferae, and Hugh "his brother german " (witness, Sasine 9th June 1625). Also Robert Ross, and David, son of William Ross in Midfairnie, witnesses to Sasines between 1638 and 1649. ROSS OF MORANGIE. 1. Alexander Ross, chaplain of Dunskaith. This chaplainry was founded by James II. in the parochial church of Tain, between 1456 and 1458; in 1487 it was annexed as a prebend to the collegiate church which he founded at Tain (Exchequer Roll, 227). Alexander Ross was presented to the chap- lainry, " vacant by the incapacity or demission of Sir John Poilson, chanter of Caithness," 13th June 1500 (Privy Seal Reg. vol. i, fol. 126). A long and fruitless search has been made to discover the paternity of the above Alex- ander. It is not unlikely that he was descended from the Shandwick family, as Walter Ross of Shandwick (143), who died 1531. had a wadset of the town and chaplainry of Dunskaith ; his second son being William Ross of Culnahall (190), a property afterwards belonging to the Morangie family. In a contract made, 23d March 1546-7, between 'Alexander Ross, ninth of Balnagown (16), on the one part, and William Hamilton of Sanchar, Knight, and others, on behalf of James, Commendator of Feme, on the other, regarding certain property of the abbey, " Sir Nicholas Ross." son of the above Alexander, is styled " cousin to Alexander Ross of Balnigown " (Acta Ross of Morangie. 67 Dom Con. et Sess. vol. xxiii. fol. 32). Alexander, the chaplain, died before 20th February 1543, and was, as already stated, father of 2. Nicholas Ross, who in 1533 had been named chaplain of Dunskaith. He was presented by Queen Mary, in 1549, to the provostry of the collegiate church of Tain, and to the annexed vicarage, when they should become vacant (Privy Seal, vol. xxii. fol. 91). He resigned the provostry in 1567, and became the nineteenth abbot of Feme. He sat in the Parliament held at Edinburgh in August 1560, and voted for the abolition of the Roman Catholic religion. Letters of legitimation were granted, 20th February 1543, to Nicholas Ross, " bastard natural son of the late Alexander Ross, chaplain of Dunskaith" (Great Seal), and, 20th December of the same year he obtained letters of legitimation for his four sons, Nicholas. William, Donald, and Thomas, when purchasing from Balnagown the estate of Geanies to settle on them. By a deed,, dated 24th March 1544, at the collegiate church of Tain, with consent of Queen Mary, the Earl of Arran, Bishop Leslie, John Thorn- ton, provost, and the prebendaries, he granted his lands of Dunskaith to his son Nicholas, and the heirs-male of his body, with remainder to his sons William and Donald, and their heirs-male; to his son Thomas and his heirs- male; whom failing, tc the eldest heir-female of Thomas; whom all failing, to the heirs of Nichoas whomsoever (Orig. Par. Scot, vol ii. part ii. p. 422). 1 " The xvii day of September the year of God 1569, nicolas Ros, comedator of ferae, provest of tane decessit, quhom God assolze " (Kal. of Feme). He was buried in the abbey, to the north of the choir, leaving, 3. Nicholas. (See below.) 4. William, of whom there appears to be no further notice. 5. Donald, styled " of Litill Kinteis.'' He obtained a charter, from his brother Nicholas, of part of the lands of Dunskaith, in life- rent, dated and subscribed by the grantor at Pitcallene in Ross 25th June 1571. (Pitcalnie Papers.) 6. Thomas. (See post.) [1.] ... daughter, married as first wife John Ross or Reid, in Annat, styled " brother of abbot Thomas ; " he married secondly Ellen Jameson, who died 7th March 1590 (Kal. of Feme). By his first wife he had a son, Thomas Ross, alias Reid, to whom in J 574 James VI. granted the chaplainry of Morangie for his education "at the sculis " (Privy Seal, xlvii. 12). On "the xxij of deceber 1591 Thomas Ross alias reid deptit in tane; he wes y e abat of fernis syster sone ; & wes sustenit by y e said abat ay sin he wes fowir yeir of age & at y e scewlis " (Kal. of Feme). 3. Nicholas Ross "of Dunskaith" (Charter 25th June 1571), "of Cul- nahaw" 1595. In 1583, November — "The viij day of this instand beand fryday Capitane James Ross brodyr sone to ye lard of achlossin and patrick 1 From Reg. Sec. Sig. xxxviii. fol. 101, it would seem that the abbot had two sons who bore the name of Thomas — Gift to Isobel Ros, reiict of Thomas Ros, of the escheat of the late Thomas Ros, son to Ros. abbot of Feme, at the horn for not paying Andrew Munro, chamberlain of the diocese of Ross, the tiends of Easter Gany and Tarrell for 1569-70. At Leith, 10th July 1571. 68 Rossiana. Yvat with him wer slane in tane in andro rossis chalmir at viij horis afore none be nicolas ross and waiter ross w* yair coplesis " (Kal. of Feme). For this murder he obtained, under the Great Seal 14th August 1595. a remission — " Nicolao Ross de Culnahaw et Waltero Ross de Intumecarrach fratribus (sic) 1 Willielmi Ross de Invercharron pro parte interfectionis Capitani Jacobi Ross." 6. Thomas Ross "of Culnahall " (Statist. Aec. of Scot.), burgess of Forres, parson of Alness. He appears as provost of the collegiate church of Tain in 1550, and between 1561-66, appointed by John Leslie, bishop of Ross. Queen Mary confirmed the presentation when the provostry should become vacant by the decease of Nicholas, commendator of Feme (Ratifica- tion 13th May 1567, Reg. See. Sig. xxxvi. fol. 41). He became the twentieth abbot of Feme in 1566, three years before his father's death. In the abbey he built a new hall, chambers, cellar, pantry and kitchen, and near it a mill. In 1569 he fell out with Alexander Knv>. ninth of Balnagown, and in conse- quence retired to Forres. He appears to have led an unquiet life there; in 1586 the magistrates warn him " furth of the common land revin by him from the mureshed ; " and he, with his servants, are sued by John Anderson, 6th April 1590, "for slaying his bred gevis " — fat goose (Burgh Records, Forres Council Book). In 1580 he complained of cruelties committed by Alexander of Balnagown in exacting moneys from some of his tenants (Reg. P. Coun.). Andrew Ross of Shand'wick became surety for him in £roco not to harm John Denune of Catboll, signed at Feme 27th August 1594, before Mr. Robert Ross, minister of Alness, and others (Reg. P. Coun.). Resigning his appointments in 1584, James VI. granted the abbacy and provostry for life to his son Walter Ross (Reg. P. Coun.). The abbot died in Tain. 14th February 1595, and was buried in St. Nicholas aise, having married Isobel, daughter of Alexander Kinnaird of Cowbin, or Culbowie; she was buried in the same grave as her husband, 5th October 1603. — " Obitus Isobelle Kinnard sponse M ri thome ros abbatis feme apud tane et sepultse in fearne " (Kal. of Feme). By her will she nominated Walter, her eldest son, her only executor, and left bequests to her daughter Barbara and her son William. Will confirmed, 13th February, 1603-4. William Sinclair of May is cautioner (Edinb. Tests, vol. xlii.). The testament-dative and inventory of the goods of Abbot Thomas were given up by William his son, and Barbara his daughter, spouse to Andrew Moresone, collector of the north parts of Scotland, executor. The free gear amounted to £1878, 7s. iod. Will confirmed, 2d February 1597-58 (Commiss. of Edin. Tests, vol. xxxi.). He left. 7. Walter. (See below.) 8. William, " son of Mr. Thomas, the abbot," born at Pitlary, — October 1574 (Kal. of Feme). In 1586 King James granted him the chaplainry of Morangie for life, then held by his brother Walter. Styled "burgess of Tain" (Sasine 19th November 1629). From 'So the word reads in one copy. In the Index, Signet Library, 40, 241, it is fratrem, in the " praeceptum remissionis " (Reg. See. Sig. Ixvii. 196), it is fratris instead of fra.ri, which should refer only to Walter Ross. Ross of Morangie. 69 a Sasine ist May 1668. "William Ross Abatsone, burgess of Tain," appears to have been living, aged 94. He probably had a son " Alexander Williamson, burgess of Tain " (witness, Sasine ist April 1629). 9. Andrew, "burgess of Tain" (witness, Sasine 3rd May 1608). Charter of confirmation to him, styled " de Morinschie," and to other burgesses of Tain, of the mill of Aldie. 22d June 1609 {Great Seal). 1 [1.] Barbara, who received from her father £1000 of tocher (Durgli Records, Forres), and married Andrew Moreson. She had a daughter, Barbareta, who, both her parents being deceased, was (Sasine 2d August 1639) wife to Kenneth M'Kenzie, burgess of Dingwall, who died before 1666, and was second sou of Mr. John M'Kenzie, first of Towie. They had two daughters, Barbara and Annabella, co-heiress of their mother; their only brother was killed at the battle of Worcester. 7. Walter Ross, first of Morangie, " son and heir of Mr. Thomas, burgess of Forres " 24th April 1587. In 1580 James VI. granted him the chaplainry of Morangie for seven years, and in the same year the abbacy of Feme and provostry of Tain, reserving the liferent of both to his father; he was the 21st and last commendator of Fernc. He obtained a charter of Easter and Wester Morinches, ist December 1591, and of other abbey lands, 24th March 1592 (Great Seal). Like his father he gave a bond not to harm John Denune of Catboll, Walter Ross, apparent of Bellamochie, being his cautioner, Edin- burgh, 2d September 1594 (Reg. P. Conn.). In 1596 there was a complaint of oppression made against him by Grissell Dunbar, relict of David Ross cf Little Rany I Reg P. Cowl). In 1626-29 he appears as burgess of Tain, and in 1644 as " Walter Ross of Moringie," on the valuation roll of the sheriffdom of Inverness and Ross. The date of his death is uncertain. He married first Janet Ross, who died at Feme, 2d September 1600 (Kal. of Feme): 2 By her he had three children, 10. Mr. Thomas. (See below.) 10b. Hugh. [1.] Isobell, "eldest daughter" (Sasine ist May 1626), married Hugh Ross of Easterfern (102). P. He married secondly, Alesone Qephane, "spouse to Walter" (Sasine 19th November 1629), and had, 11. John, "eldest son and heir apparent of Walter Ross and Alesone Clephane " (Sasine 8th October 1633). Charter to him from Andrew is not mentioned in the will of Abbot Thomas, or in that of his wife. There is no proof of his being their son. He is probably the Andrew Ross, burgess of Tain, who, in 1604, having married Mary, daughter of John M'Gilendris, gave a discharge to his father-in-law for 400 marks, his wife's tocher. 2 The testament-dative and inventory of goods were given up by her said husband, as father and lawful administrator to their three children. Free gear — £828, 13s. 4d. She was owing to Walter Ros Johnston, grieve, for his year's fee, anno 1600, £20. Will confirmed, 1st May 1602. Andrew Moresoun, collector depute for the north, is cautioner. (Edinb. Tests, vol. xxxvi.) yo Rossiana. his father of the lands of Easter and Wester Morinchies, dated at Tain "th November 1629. Styled " fiar of Morinchies " 1640, "apparent of" (Sasine 8th June 1648). and, as a witness to Sasine 31st January 1663, " Abatsone, burgess of Tain." {See post.) 10. Mr. Thomas Ross, second of Morangie. " eldest lawful son to Walter " (Sasine 8th October 1633). Charter to him of the lands of Morinchies 19th December 1636 {Great Seal). Burgess of Tain 1639. He died 13th Septem- ber 1658 (Kal. of Feme), having married first, . By her he appears to have had a son, 12. Walter, "son of Mr. Thomas" (witness Sasines 10th April, 20th June. 7th October 1650). Walter had a son, William, but neither of them seem to have inherited the lands. He married secondly. Jean Stewart, "his spouse" (Sasine 15th April [652) ; "his relict" (8th August 1666), by whom he had. 13. George. {See below.) 14. Alexander. " second son of the second marriage " (Sasine 8th August 1666). 15. David (Sasine 20th February 1667). [1.] Elizabeth, married Walter Ross, provost of Tain, "his spouse" (Sasine 15th August 1682). (It is doubtful whether she was a daughter of the first or second marriage.) 13. George Ross, third of Morangie, "son of Mr. Thomas, son of Walter" {Retoars) . Heir of provision of the second marriage of Mr. Thomas Ross of Morangie. his father {Inq. Gen. 8th February 1698). Charter of con- firmation to him of the lands of Inverbreakie, 4th February 1687 {Great Seal). He was of age in or before 1643. He was commissioner of supply for Ross-shire 1685-86 (Acts of Pari). About 1672 he registered Arms at the Lyon Office — Mr. George Ross of Morinchie, descended of Balnagown, G11. 3 Iioncells rampant between as many stars arg. Next is placed on one torse for his crest a foxhead couped prop. Motto — Spes aspera levat. He died 7th April 1703, having married first, Elizabeth Innes, by whom he had. 16. George, baptized 18th September 1685, in Edinburgh, who probably died young. 17. William. {See belozv.) 18. Thomas, called second son in his father's will. [1.] Anna, baptized 19th April 1684 (Edinb. Reg.). He married secondly, Helen, daughter of the late John Rose, fifth of Blackhills; "now spouse" (Sasine 20th November 1694, making provision for the children if any). By his will he appointed his eldest son only executor, and his worthy friends, cousins, and relations as tutors and curators to his children, viz. : George Munro of Newmore, John Ross of Achnacloich, Walter Ross, provost of Tain, and James Ross in Culliss. Confirmed 31st January 1718 {Commiss. of Edinb. Tests.). 17. William Ross, fourth of Morangie, baptized in Edinburgh, 14th August 1688, was by profession a writer. Eldest son of the first marriage of deceased George Ross of Morangie, 26th July 1714 (Great Seal). Served heir to his Ross of Morangie. yi father in the lands of Dibbedale in the parish of Kincardine, ioth May 1726. About the same time he disposed of the town and lands of Easter and Wester Morangie, in the parish of Tain, to David Ross of Inverchasley. He married , and had, 19. John. 20. William. (See below.) 20. William Ross, a merchant at Liverpool, who died 13th July 1804, having married, 26th January 1768, Nancy Horner, by whom he had, 21. Henry. (See belozv.) 22. William. (See post.) 23. Arthur, died s. p. 21. Henry, merchant at Liverpool, who died 27th March 1856, having married, 15th May 1799. Eleanor, daughter of James Moore, Mayor of Lan- caster. She died 20th February 1826, leaving, 24. James Moore, died s. p. 25. Wiliam Horner, died s. p. 1838. 26. Henry, Solicitor in London, died s. p. 1845. 27. Stephen. (See belozv.) [1.] Mary, married to W. T. Vane, Mayor of Lancaster, and died 1881. 27. Stephen Ross, baptized at St. James's, Liverpool , and died 4th October 1869, having married, 9th April 1833, Charlotte,' daughter of William Harrison. They had, 28. Henry Ross, of Dallas House, Lancaster, LL. D., born 1834, married, at Port Louis Mauritius, Amelie Rachel, second daughter of the Rev. J. G. Bichard, and has 29. Henry Harrison Stockdale. 30. Stephen John. [1.] Amelia Charlotte. [2.] Henrietta Mabel. 22. William Ross (see ante) settled in America, and married at Washing- ton, North Carolina, Jackey, daughter of John Simpson, by whom he had, 31. John, only son, died s. p. [1.] Margaret, married Benjamin Sprail. P. [2.] Eleanor Pocock, married John B. Chesson. P. To return to 11. John, eldest son of the second marriage of Walter Ross, first of Morangie. In the Sasine 31st January 1663, another witness is Alexander Ross, " student in Tain," no paternity given. He signed next to the above John, and may have been his son. The next John Ross of whom there is mention is John Ross, " merchant and indweller in Tain," bailie to a sasine on charter to David Ross of Inverchasley, 2d July 1729, probably the same as John Ross " residenter in Tain, bailie," mentioned in Sasines 24th March 1730, 29th January 1734, 17th and 23d June 1737. In the Sasine 1730 Alex- ander Ross, student in Tain, witness, is named. It appears to be certain that a John Ross of the Morangie family, who settled in Tain, had two sons, (1.) John, a soldier, of whose history nothing is known. (2.) Alexander. (See belozv.) 7^ Rossiana. (2.) Alexander Ross, served as a soldier in Holland, and married Mar- garet M'Intosh, daughter of the provost of Inverness, 1 by whom he had two sons, (3.) John. (Seebelozv.) (4.) Alexander, commander of the Ordnance during the siege of Gib- raltar, born in Holland — 1748, and dying 1804, was buried at Gibraltar. He married, first, , Margaret, daugh- ter of John Climes of Neilston. She died 1792, and left, (5.) John Clunes, born 8th November 1790, and died at Malta 1863. [1.] Margaret Brewse, borne 179-2- She married G. H. Hooper, and had, with other children, Rev. Robert Poole Hooper, to whom I am indebted for the notice about this branch. He married secondly, Helen Inglis, who died s. p. 1832. (3.) John Ross, a director of the E. I. Company, born at Fort Augustus , married at Tangier, , Sarah Minsker, by whom he had two daughters, [1.] Hannah, married Admiral Sir Richard O'Connor, K. C. H. P. [2.] Margaret, married Patrick O'Connor. P. ROSS OF PITCALZEANE. In 1581 James VI. confirmed the grant made by the Bishop of Ross to Alexander Feme of the half-lands of Pitcalzeane. In 1582 a grant was made to Finlay Manson of another quarter, and in 1584 another portion was granted to Donald Gibson. Andrew Feme, portioner of Pitcalzeane. granted the easter quarter to Walter Douglas, burgess of Tain, and Alexander Ross, late bailie (Orig. Par. Scot.). In 1662 Andrew Feme of Pitcalzeane was served heir to his grandfather Alexander in the half-lands (Rctours). David Ross, second son of David Ross, third of Balmachy (193), appears as portioner of Meddat and of Pitcalzeane, and in a Sasine of 1648 on charter under the Great Seal in his favour of the barony of Balnagown, David Ross, probably the same, is styled " of Pitcalzeane." In Sasine 15th August 1628 appears George Ross " of Pitcalzeane," who had for his spouse Margaret Denune, and a son. Andrew. In Sasine 31st July 1649, it is stated that Donald Ross, alias M'Thomas Nore. in Easter Radichies, became owner of part of Pitcalzeane. and had for his eldest son, Andrew, who married Agnes, daughter to Alexander Clunes of Newtaine. In Sasine 3d June i637 appears Robert Ross "of Pitcalzeane," and nth December the same year John Ross " in Pitcalzeane." ROSS OF PITTOGARTY. 1. Alexander Ross, notary and clerk of Tain, obtained a disposition from Sir John Urquhart of Cromarty of four oxgates of the lands of Pittogarty, in the parish of Tain (Sasine 20th July 1674), and from James Corbat of 1T n the Inverness registers the marriage of Margaret M'Intosh does not appear, but Isobel M'Intosh married an Alexander Ross, 9th November 1742. Ross of and in Rarichies. 73 Balnagall, the half davoch lands of Balnagall and others in the parishes of Tain and Tarbat (Sasine nth December 1671) ; he died before 1687, leaving, 2. Andrew, " his son and h?ir," second of Pittogarty, who in February 1695, was put to the horn by James Dunbar of Dalcross, for a debt of £20 (Antiquarian Notes, Mackintosh). In 1535 William M'Culloch, third of Plaids, granted a charter of Pittogarty to William Denoon. In the Edinburgh Testaments, vol. xlv., 24th February 1609, there is the following: Testament-dative and inventory of goods, etc.. which pertained to the deceased Elspeth Ross, sometime spouse to Alexander Denovane in Pittogartie, in the parish of Tain, given up by the said Alex- ander, as father and lawful administrator to their bairns, David. John, Wil- liam, Andrew. Kathrine, Cristiane, Jonet Issobell, Elspeth. Will confirmed 23d February 1609, John Ross in Cullicudny, cautioner. Andrew Ross, provost of Tain, was witness. 10th August 1627, to the Sasine of John Denune, merchant there, in the lands of Pittogarty. On 22d February 1628, there was a reversion in favour of David Denune. and on 1st July 1634 a discharge of reversion by David Denune "of Pittogarty," in favour of the said John Denune, burgess of Tain (Inverness Sasines). ROSS OF AND IN RARICHIES. Hugh Ross "of Rarichies" died there 23d October 1529 (Kal. of Feme). Alexander, son of William Ross "in Rarichies," died nth November 1601 (Kal). Hugh Ross in Easter Rarichies is mentioned in Sasine nth April 1632. Andrew Ross in Wester Rarichies (witness Sasine 19th October 1649), and John Ross in Rarichies (witness Sasine 15th March 1659). Andrew Ross, sometime in Rarichies. and afterwards in Auchnaquhyll or Achaghyll, who died before June 1698, left a widow, Margaret M'Culloch, by whom he had, 1. Walter, eldest son and heir in Auchnaquhill. 2. Samuel, mason in Newnakill. 3. Hugh. 4. John. , 5. James. 6. Andrew. [1.] Margaret, married John Ross, mason, in Pitmaduthie. [2.] Helen, married Thomas Ross, saddler, in Tain. [3.] Isobell, married Alexander Munro in Alness. [4.] Janet, married Hugh Sutherland in Newnakill. These all made a renunciation in favour of David Ross of Balnagown of the lands of Achagyll and Badferne in the parish Kilmuir, dated at Balna- gown, 31st May 1698. David Ross disponed the above lands in liferent to Lady Anna Stewart, his spouse (Sasine 13th June 1698). In 1550 the lands of Easter and Wester Rarichies and of Cullis were sold by Alexander Ross of Balnagown to William Carnecors, and in 1615 these lands had become the property of Sir William Sinclair of Catboll, and then passed to Rose of Kilravock through intermarriage with the Sinclairs of Dunbeath (Orig. Par. Scot.). 74 Ross lit I hi. ROSS OF RISOLLIS. Thomas Ross " in Risollis " died 5th August 1600. and was buried at Cromarty (Kal. of Feme). Perhaps lather of Thomas Ross "of Risollis" (mentioned in Sasines 226. February 1628, 1st February 1629. 29th August 1643). Sheriff of Inverness (Sasine 8th June 1648). He married Margaret Gordon, relict of Hugh Ross of Kindeace, and " now his spouse." Jth April 1650. She died 5th September 1665. and was buried at Nigg (Kal. of Feme). He had a son. John, "lawful son of Thomas Ros of Rysolis " (Sasine oth October 1649). ROSS OF AND IN TUTINTARROCH. This name is spelt in many ways, Intumecarrach. Tuttintarvach, Tutam- taruach. etc. It has been impossible to settle the connection between the fol- lowing persons: — Walter Ross (126), brother of William Ross, third of Invercharron (76), styled " of Tutintarroch," was concerned in the murder of Captain James Ross at Tain in 1583 (see Morangie), and obtained a remission under the Great Seal 14th August 1595. Malcolm Ross, "apparent of" (witness Sasine 31st July 1607) ; "in Tutin- tarroch" (Sasine 31st March 1636). William Ross " of Tutintarroch " had a son, Walter, who died 29th Novem- ber 1648 (Kalendar of Feme). Thomas Ross " in Tutintarroch " had a son. Alexander, who married Issobel Ross, widow of Alexander Ross, second of Invercharron (75). David Ross of Pitcalnie gave a charter to him and his wife of some lands in the bishoprick of Ross (Sasine 30th July 1632 1. John Ross "in Tutintarroch" (witness Sasine 16th March 1665). ANDREW ROSS IN MUSSELBURGH. Andrew Ross, whose paternity is not stated, was a relative of the Shand- wick family; writing to Bailie Donald Ross, 29th March 1732, he sends "his humble respects to his worthie frinde, old Shandwook, to your Laday, my Cousine." He was a wealthy clothier at Musselburgh, and. dying — Novem- ber 1735, left two daughters, [1.] Grissell, married to John Rose of Blackball, in the parish Old Nairn, 14th July 1732. witnesses, Charles Hay of Hopes, and William Fraser. writer, Edinburgh (Invcresk Regr.). [2.] Christian, married to Charles Hay of Hopes. His testament-dative and inventory of goods were given up by his sons- in-law, his daughters being executrices. Amount of inventory and debts, £23.675. lis. Will confirmed 30th December 1735 (Commiss. of Edinb. Tests., vol. xcvii.). Grissell Ross, sister of the above Andrew, was married 17th February 1713 to Mr. William Lindsay, late schoolmaster of Musselburgh (Inveresk Regr.). ANDREW ROSS, PROVOST OF TAIN. 1. Andrew Ross (paternity not stated), styled "burgess of Tain" in Sasines 1624-26, "provost," 1627-38, "sometime provost" (Sasine 26th May 1640). He died 4th October 1660 (Kal. of Feme), having married first Mar- Benjamin Ross, Bailie of Tain. 75 garet Ross, charter to her, his spouse, of a liferent in the lands of Wester Catboll (Sasine 21st April 1630), and again, 7th August 1651, of part of the lands of Mikill Allane, which he had acquired by charter from James, grand- son and heir of John Ferguson, burgess of Tain. They had, 2. William. (See below.) [1.] Muriel, "daughter to the provost" (Sasine 4th March 1635). The provost married, secondly, Bessie Gray. As relict of Andrew Ross, sometime provost of Tain, she obtained a disposition of lands in Dornoch from John Gray in Arboll. She had a son also called William. 2. William Ross, "eldest son of the provost" (Sasine 16th April 1633), "elder, burgess of Tain" (witness 7th October 1650). He died before 1658, having married , by whom he had, 3. Andrew, eldest son and apparent heir of deceased William Ross, burgess of Tain, who died vested in the lands of Wester Geanies, apparent heir to his grandfather, Andrew, provost of Tain (Sasine 1st February 1658). Styled "bailie of Tain" 1665, "provost" (Sasine 24th February 1669, witness). 4. William, " son to deceased William Ross, bailie of Tain " (Sasine 4th March 1670, witness). He apparently had a son, Alexander, " son of William Ross, burgess of Tain (witness Sasine nth De- cember 1673), and a daughter Margaret, married to John Ross of Aldie (Hv.). Andrew Ross, provost of Tain, may perhaps have been son of Thomas, Abbot of Feme (see Morangic), burgess of Tain, 1608, therefore born in or before 1587. BENJAMIN ROSS, BAILIE OF TAIN. He married, , 1788. Jean, daughter of Bailie Millar, and had, George, baptized at Tain, 20th May 1789. Mary, baptized 30th October 1791. Margaret, baptized 29th September 1794. James, baptized nth May 1796. Elizabeth, baptized 16th July 179& DONALD ROSS, BAILIE OF TAIN. Donald Ross, bailie of Tain, whom, previous to his marriage in 1717 with Margaret, second daughter of Andrew Ross of Shandwick (155), William Ross (156), her brother, addressed as " aff. Cousigne," assisted the various members of the Shandwick family in their fallen fortunes. He was a pewterer in Tain, and at one time postmaster. Many of his letters are extant, but they give no clue to his paternity; only two nephews are men- tioned, Hugh Ross, and Hugh Munro, a sister's son. Perhaps Bailie Donald was a descendant of Donald Ross (146) who sold Shandwick in 1642. The above Hugh Ross was son of John Ross, "overseer at Craigioy," who died about 1743; on 22d November of that year he was retoured as heir-general to his father (Inq. Gen., registered 4th July 1749). He was student of divinity at Aberdeen, and graduated there April 1736. On the 16th he wrote to his uncle — " I was graduated Tuesday last we were very hearty yester night, I mean five more of the best of the class and I, y(S Rossi ana. treating the Regent and the other masters of the College with a dozen and half of wine and a supper, . . . we had so much over and above of the wine bought for our graduation where the masters were pleased to drink the health of our respective friends." From Aberdeen he went to Edinburgh, where he seems to have remained (in what capacity does not appear) for some years. He was licensed by the Presbytery of Tain, 21st .March 1744, ordained in 1755, and became minister of Kildonan, Sutherlandshire. He married i/59> Ann Houston, and died 1761. (Fasti Ecc. Scot.) His successor at Kildonan was Mr. John Ross, whose paternity is not stated. He was ordained missionary of Farr 26th September 1759, and minister of Kildonan 18th November 1761. He died 28th March 1783 in his forty-second year, having married the widow of Gunn M'Sheumais, by whom he had, David. (Sec below.) Katherine, married David Gunn, who died 1827. David Ross was in the army. On his father's death he left it, took a farm, and was also miller at Cloggan in Strathbeg. He married the daughter of a wealthy tenant, by whom he had a numerous family of sons and daughters. The eldest son went to America as a teacher (Memorabilia domestica, Sage, Minister of Resolis. Wick, 1889). NICHOLAS ROSS, BURGESS OF DORNOCH. He was a litstcr, or dyer, and appears as a witness to Sasines between 1695 and 1698. He had been previously established in Tain, where he was also burgess (Sasine 19th August 1701). He was living in Dornoch 1720-23, and was in all probability of the Little Tarrell family, either Nicholas, whose brother Walter (xxxix) was town clerk of Dornoch, or Nicholas, his nephew (xxxv). His daughter Katherine was married to George Ross, merchant, " Theusurer " in Tain, and had, William, baptized at Tain, 26th January 1720. Witnesses, William Ross, bailie, Thomas Reid, leat bailie, and John Reid, merchant. Katherine, baptized 30th June 1721. John, baptized 22d May 1723. Helen, baptized 25th March 1725. Another Nicholas Ross, student at Tain, witnessed a Sasine 1st April 1725, and was probably the Nicholas Ross who was " one of the present bailies of Tain" in 1754. WILLIAM ROSS, BAILIE OF TAIN. In Feme Abbey there is an oblong flat stone, with the following inscription running round the outer edge: — This stone is placed j here by William Ross bailie of Tain and un | der the same lyes | the body of Margaret Ross his spouse who depar | ted this life the 28 | day of March 1718. In the center of the stone William Ross Margaret Ross Katherine M'Intosh. William Ross, Bailie of Tain. 77 William Ross appears as witness to a Sasine 13th April 1710. Soon after the death of his first wife, he married, secondly, Katherine M'Intosh, by whom he had. Alary, baptized at Tain, 4th February 1720. Witnesses, David Ross of Inverchasley, Hugh Ross of Achnacloich, and Thomas Ross, leat bailie. Alexander, baptized 28th December 1722. Witness, David Ross of Kindeace. Robert, baptized 14th October 1724. Very probably many inscriptions in Feme Abbey Church perished, when on Sunday 10th October 1742, at the time of worship, the roof and part of the side wall fell in during a violent storm. The gentry had their seats in the niches, and by that means their lives were saved, as was the minister, Mr. Donald Ross, by the sounding-board falling on the pulpit and covering him. Very many were wounded, and forty were dug out and buried pro- miscuously without ceremony {Scots Mag.). Mr. Donald died 2d Septembt-'r 1755 in his 83d year (Fasti). WILLIAM ROSS, BAILIE OF TAIN. I. William Ross, bailie of Tain (paternity not stated), mentioned first in 1726 in the correspondence of the Shandwick family, and called their cousin, died before 1738, having married twice. By his first wife he had, 2. George, eldest son, who married Katherine, third daughter of Andrew Ross, seventh of Shandwick (155). 3. William, living in 1753. 4. David, died before 1753. [I.] ■ [2.] Margaret, second daughter, married Duncan Simpson of Nether Culcraigy (Sasine on marriage-contract 8th November 1734). Me married secondly , living as his widow in 1748, and had, •with a daughter, a son, Gilbert. In 1748 Alexander Ross (169), of the Shandwick family, wrote to Mr. Alexander Gray in London, introducing to him Gilbert Ross " as a youth he had great hopes of. His success and conduct at Aberdeen has endeared him to all his friends." He died in London March 1788. having become a mer- chant in Billiter Lane. His widow. Ann , was living in 1793. He left three sons, 1. Gilbert, the eldest, was married. 2. William, a grocer. 3. George. At his death he left £40.000 to be divided between his three sons, bis widow, and his sister. Roberta, widow of Lieutenant David Ross, who died before 1783. ADDITIONAL NOTES ON THE ROSS FAMILY. (By Francis Nevile Reid.) ROSS OF BALMACHY. IN volume xxxiii., Edinburgh Testaments, under date 27th February 1598, there is the testament-dative and inventory of goods, etc., pertaining to the deceased Margaret Munro, sometime spouse to Walter Ross, apparent of Ballamonthie, in the parish of Tarbet, and shire of Inverness, who died 8th May 1594, given up by the said Walter, as father, etc., to 1. Hugh, 2. George, 3. Donald, 4. David, 5. William, [1.] Katrene, [2.] Issobell, their lawful bairns, and executors-dative surrogate to their deceased mother. Confirmed 27th February 1598. James Innes, liar of Innerbraikie, is cautioner. ROSS OF BALNAGOWN. David Ross (20), the last laird of Balnagovvn, in 1668 gave part of the Oxgate lands of the Drum of Fearn to John Ross and Margaret his wife. It is by no means clear whether the husband, or the wife, was his illegitimate child. The above John Ross, mason in Balnagown, died before 1717, and his wife, Margaret, before 1741, having had an only son, David, who died before his father, and three daughters. , the eldest, married James Ross, tailor in Fearn. who in 1717 purchased the portions of the other two daughters, and died January 1738, having had, [1.] Frances, who married Finlay Ross, alias Roy, tenant of the Wester Drums of Fearn. [2.] Elspeth, married George M'Gilies in Arboll. [3. J Euphemia, died before her father, having married Roderick Ding- wall, tenant at the Bridge End of Fearn, by whom she had two sons and two daughters. These three sisters were retoured heirs portioners to the deceased John Ross, their grandfather, and also to the deceased David Ross of Balnagown, their great-grandfather, in part of the lands of the Drum of Fearn (Sasine 28th July 1741). The above James Ross, owing money to Bailie Donald Ross of Tain, in payment of the debt, the above heirs ceded to him these Oxgate lands of the Drum of Fearn (Memorial about the Heritable Estate of Bailie Donald). Ross of Calrossie. 79 ROSS OF CALROSSIE. From the following notice it appears that Thomas Ross, second of Cal- rossie (65), stated to be the son of Thomas Ross, first of Calrossie (64), by Katherine Ross his wife, was not his son, but his nephew. Procuratory of resignation of Thomas Ross of Calrossie. and pertinents in the parish of Logie Easter and sheriffdom of Ross, for new infeftment in favour of himself, and Thomas Ross of Knockan. son to Malcolm Ross, merchant in Tain, his brother-german (63). and the heirs male of the said Thomas Ross of Knockan. Alexander Ross, sheriff-clerk depute of Ross, is a wit- ness. Signed at Calrossie 7th October 1732, registered 13th December (Reg. of Deeds, MacKenzie Office, Edin. vol. 132). There was a Malcolm Ross "of Calrossie" who died 15th September 1618 (Kal. of Feme). (See (72) and (22).) ROSS OF EASTERFEARN. The daughters of Alexander Ross, fifth of Easterfearn (105) were. [1.] Janet Gordon, who married Mr. Arthur Sutherland, minister at Edderton, and was his widow in 1728. [2.] Margaret Gordon. [3.] , married Innes, and had a son, Walter. [4.] Elizabeth, married Manson. The latter will of Captain Ross of Daan (116), who died June 1735, was dated at Mt. Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, 4th September 1728. He named his brother Alexander, W. S., executor, and left legacies to his sisters and other relatives. Confirmed 16th June 1737 (Commiss. of Edin- burgh Tests, vol. 99). (106, 107). — Corrections. — William Ross, sixth (not fifth) of Easter- fearn, was commissary clerk of Ross in or before 1706 until after 1724. He died in 1727 (not in 1712, as previously stated). His son and heir, Alex- ander, afterwards seventh (not sixth) of Easterfearn, served and retoured heir to his father before 1729, had in 1726 become commissary clerk of Ross (Sasine 15th December). Being unable to pay the claims on him for the remainder of the purchase-money of Tarlogie, in lieu of further payment David M'Lendris or Ross, his creditor, accepted the clerkship, to which he was not regularly appointed until 1733 (MS. notes). Another Alexander Ross in a charter of resignation of part of Little Allan, called Balnagore (Gt. Seal, 3d February 1710, Sasine on 1st March), is styled " commissary clerk of Ross." He appears as witness to many Sasines ; in one. dated 25th February 1724, he is described as writer at Tain, commissary clerk depute of Ross. He died before 4th June 1730, when William, his eldest son and heir, disposed of lands in Dornoch. He had also a son Hugh (Tain Registers) whose daughter Jannet was baptized 23 d May 1723. Another Alexander Ross was commissary clerk of Tain, and married Janet, daughter of Bailie Dingwall ; they had, Alexander, baptized 20th September 1720. Charles, baptized 10th September 1722. Christian, baptized 20th December 1723. 8o Rossiana. Again, an Alexander Ross was Dean of Guild in Tain before 1698, and witnessed many Sasines; he had a son Alexander (Sasine 15th July 1724), and a son David (Sasine 17th October 1705). He was living in 1724. David Ross, notary, mentioned in various Sasines between 1690-1708, was sheriff-clerk of Ross; he had Andrew, his eldest son, and Mr. George, schoolmaster at Tarbat. ROSS OF INVERCHASLEY. (Second family so styled (see 50).) — From the nomination of heirs made in 1762 by Mr. David Ross (52), afterwards Lord Ankerville, whose mar- riage-contract bears date 7th August 1755. it appears that David Ross, lirst of Inverchasley, by his first wife, had the following daughters, [1.] Anne, married to John Haldane of Aberathven. by whom she had an only son David, captain in the Royal Regiment of Highlanders. [2.] Margaret, married to Charles Urquhart of Brealangwell, by whom she had an only son David (Sasine on marriage-contract, 28th September 1728). By his second wife, as previously stated, he had an only daughter, Mary, married to John Grant of Ballintotne. 1 The daughters of David Ross, second of Inverchasley, were, [1.] Jean, eldest daughter, wife of Roderick M'Culloch of Glastulich. by whom she had a son David, captain in the army. [2.] Isobel, 2 wife of William Ross, tenth of Invercharron. She and her heirs were passed over in the settlement. [3.] Mary. The above-named settlement included the lands of Shandwick, Tarlogie, Newton of Tarlogie and Fanintraid, Morangie and Dibidaile. part of Drum- gillie, Easter Kindeace, Morvichwater, part of Meikle Ranie, Pitkery, and various lands near Tain. (59) Charles Ross, Lieutenant-General, styled " of Morangie," second son of David Ross, second of Inverchasley,"' having become owner of Inver- charron, made a settlement of his estates 31st May 1796, recorded nth March 1797 (Register of Tailzies, Edinburgh, vol. 30. f. 107). Failing his 1 John Grant, third son of Tohn Grant of Dalrachney, and Mary Ross his spouse, 6th December 1736, gave a discharge to David Ross of Inverchasley for 2000 merks, due by bond of provision from her father, dated 12th January 1733 (Register of Deeds, Mackenzie Office, vol. 162). 2 This lady in the Shandwick papers is called Ann (see ante, Invercharron (84) her son David was captain in the 71*/ (not 1st) regiment of Foot, and was serving in India in 1796. Her eldest daughter, Helen, married William (not David) M'Caw. ^Inverness Sasines, vol. viii.. fol. 275. Sasine on disposition by William (not George, as previously hated) Ross of Morangie, writer in Edinburgh, in favour of David Ross of Inverchasley, of the town and lands of Easter and Wester Morangie, with the two milns thereof, etc., in the parish of Tain. At Edinburgh, ISth March 1726. Hugh M'Culloch ... is writer of the precept. Sasine on 20th April 1726, in presence of Charles Ross of Eye, Simon Ross of Rosehill. and David M'Culloch of Glastulich. David Ross obtained the lands of Dibidale also from the above William Ross, son of George Csee (51) ). Ross of Kindeace. 81 own heirs, he disponed his estates to his nephew, Charles Ross, advo- cate (57), and his heirs, whom failing to David Ross, younger of Anker- ville (53), and his heirs; to his nephew, Captain David Ross (85), son of William Ross, late of Invercharron, by his sister, Isobel Ross ; to his nephew, George Munro of Culrain; to Captain David Ross, late of Kindeace, now on half-pay, and their heirs; whom failing to his nieces, daughters of Lord Ankerville, viz. Margaret, wife of Major James Baillie, Fort-Major of Fort- George, Elizabeth Ross, Jean Ross, and their heirs; to his nieces, daughters of Invercharron, viz. Helen, wife of William M'Caw, and Elizabeth Ross, second daughter, and their heirs ; to James Rose, writer, Edinburgh, third son of the deceased Mr. Hugh Rose, minister of Tain, by Mary M'Culloch, his (the General's) first cousin, and his heirs; whom all failing, to his own lawful heirs, etc., etc. This distinguished officer received his commission as ensign in Leighton's regiment (32d Foot) 6th April 1747. He became lieutenant 2d October 1755; captain-lieutenant, Anstruther's regiment (58th Foot), 25th December 1755; captain, 32d Foot, 28th August 1756; 2d major, Earl of Sutherland's Battalion of Highlanders, 27th August 1759; lieutenant-colonel, 39th Foot. 31st July 1773; colonel of the /2d Foot, 13th October 1780. This regiment was disbanded in 1783, when he was placed on half-pay. He became major- general 19th October 1781, and lieutenant-general 12th October 1793. In June 1779, being at that time lieutenant-colonel of the 39th, he suc- ceeded in joining his corps at Gibraltar by assuming a disguise and risking the passage in a row-boat from Faro, a port in Portugal. In 1781 he went to England, and 13th November returned to Gibraltar to take command of his regiment, the 72d, or Royal Manchester Volunteers. On 27th November he commanded a force of about 2000 men in a sortie from the garrison, destroying the enemy's advance batteries ; and in December returned to England (War Office Records). He was M. P. for the Wick Burghs, 1780-84. He died .y. p. 1797; his nephew, Charles Ross, advocate, was served heir to him 26th April in the same year. ROSS OF KINDEACE. (Second Family so Styled.) Alexander Ross (69), eldest son of the second marriage of Malcolm Ross of Kindeace (-11), as has been already stated, joined his uncle Robert M'Culloch, merchant, at Copenhagen. He there became a grocer. He was born 5th July 1659, and died 27th August 1722, having married Catherine Elizabeth Abesteen, who was born 15th June 1675, and died 9th June 1735. He obtained a grant of arms from the Lyon Office, dated 1st March 1699, Sir Alexander Erskine of Cambo, Bart., being Lyon King. He is styled " Master Alexander Ross, merchant in Copenhagen, lawful son to Malcolm Ross of Kindeace, and lawfully descended of the family of Bal- nagown." The said Mr. Alexander for his ensigns armoriall Bears Gules three Lyoncells rampant argent within a bordure counter compound of the second and first, and for his Brotherly difference a Crescent in abysm or in the center argent on an helmet answerable to his degree with a mantle 82 Rossi a ii a. gules doubling argent and wreath of his colours is sett for his Crest a Fox passant proper with this motto in an Escroll above " Caute non astute " (Archives of the Herald's Office, Copenhagen). It must have been at this time that the bore-brieve (to which frequent reference has been made) was granted to Alexander Ross, perhaps by the Lyon Office, although in a search made there no record of it or of the grant of arms was found. The bore-brieve gives his paternal and maternal descent for many genera- tions, the old copy in my possession is wanting in date and signature. It concludes by stating that " he was educat and brought up in the fear of God, earlie instructed in the principles of the Christian religion and Orthodox faith . . . and while in his native country he behaved and demeaned himself in all places and societies piously and honestly as becomes." He left an only daughter and heiress, Marie, born 3d June 1693, died 12th January 1715, having married, 16th January 1710, Daniel Walker, grocer at Copenhagen, who was born 5th March 1680, and died 8th September 1747. They had a son, Alexander. (See below.) Alexander Walker inherited his grandfather's property, and, in accord- ance with his will, assumed the name of Ross in lieu of his own. He was born 17th December 1710. and married first Magdalene Elisa- beth Euran, who. died 15th October 1754. and secondly Anna Christina, daughter of Admiral Tydicker; she died s. p. 23d May, 1766. Having served the King of Denmark for thirty years, he was made " Com- missioner General of War" with the rank of Major-General. On 2d March 1782 he petitioned King Christian VII. to create him a Danish nobleman, and to permit him to use the Arms of his mother's ancestors. This petition was granted 12th June 1782, and all the documents are duly registered in the Herald's Office at Copenhagen. By his first wife he had, with a daughter, Paul Alexander, Aide-de-Camp and Major, born 26th October 1746, married, nth July 1782 or 1783, Petronelle Wasserfree, by whom he had two sons. Alexander, born 23d May 1784. Peter Vilhelm, born 29th January 1793. They have left very numerous descendants, of whom a description may be found under the heading of Ross of Balnagown in the Danish Peerage (Danmdrks Adels Aarboy) published yearly at Copenhagen by A. Thiset. ARMS OF ROSS. THE original arms of the Earls of Ross (gules three lions rampant within a tressure argent ) were taken from the shield of the King him- self, which was or and the tressure gules as well as the one lion rampant, to show that they were children of the Royal Lion, connected as they were with the Royal house of Scotland by marriage. When the Lairds of Bal- nagown assumed the title of Ross as a family name, they dropped the tressure and retained the three royal lions as proof of their de- scent from the Royal house ; motto, " Spem suc- cessus alit." The Rosses of Shand- wick bore argent three lions rampant gules. armed sable, the crest being a demi-lion rampant gules, and the motto, " Xobilis est ira leonis." Our own branch of Bal- blair bore gules three lions rampant argent, and the crest was a demi-lion ram- pant gules, armed and langued sable, and the motto was the same as that of Shandwick, " Nobilis est ira leonis." Hon. John Ross, Royal attorney-general, of Tuscu- lum and Philadelphia, bore the same arms, but had for a crest an arm holding a wreath of laurel leaves, and the motto of Ross of Bal- nagown, " Spem successus alit." No reason has ever The King's Escutcheon, or Arms of David II of Scotland, as shown by the Bruce Coat on the Cappiline. — [Stodart's " Scottish Arms." 8 4 Rossi a no. Stone Carving at Daan House. been given for this unless it was that he regarded the Balnagown crest and motto older than that of Bal- blair. Ross of Priest- hill, it is said, bore the same arms and crest as those of Balblair. The coat-of-arms cut in stone at Bal- nagown Castle, which I have seen, and which dates back to very early- times, is colored gules (red) for the shield, and or (gold) for the lions. While on a visit to Daan House in 1881, the writer ob- served a curious carved stone, above the fireplace in one of the rooms, which contained the Arms of Munro and of Ross. Gen- eral Meredith Read on being informed of it, had it photo- graphed, a repro- duction of which is shown herewith. Of the three circles appearing on the stone, the one on the left contains the Anns of Munro ( an eagle's head erased), surrounded by the motto, "Aquila 11011 captat muscas ; " the one on the right, the well-known three lions of the Arms of Ross, with the motto, " Nobilis est Anns of Ross. 85 ira leonis," while the centre circle contains the effigy of a man in a Geneva cloak and bands, holding an open book ; on which is inscribed, " Fear God in heart as ye my be bsd." Around the effigy appear the words, " Servire deo est regnare," together with the letters " M. H. M., E. R." (Magister Hector Munro, Effie Ross). The stone was undoubtedly erected as a memorial to Hector Munro, Minister of Edderton, " first of Daan (Sasines 226. August, 1626, and 30 April, 1629), lands of Little Daan," and Arms of the Earls of Ross. — [Stodart's " Scottish Arms." Effie Ross, his wife. The letters " A. M.," at the top of the stone, probably refer to Andrew or Alexander Munro, ancestor of Hector, while the letters " M. F." appearing at the bottom were intended to show that the family was of the ancient line of Munro of Foulis. Beginning at the left of the first circle and ending at the right of the third are the words, " Soli deo gloria." The date 1680 probably refers to the time of its erection. The Effie Ross here mentioned was the granddaughter of Sir David Ross, seventh Laird of Balnagown (d. May 20, 1527), and his wife, Helen Keith. Effie's father was William of Ardgay. afterward first of lnvercharron, second son of Sir David. 86 Rossiana. Arms of Alexander Stewart. Earl of Buchan, who married Euphemia, Countess of Ross, 1382.— [Stodart's " Scottish Arms." In the account of the funeral of Hugh Munro of Teaninich in 1703 (see page 139) the names of "Alexr. Munro of Dahan " and " Hector Munro the younger of Dahan." appear in the list of those in at- tendance from the parish of Edderton. The former was probably a son and the latter a grandson of Hector Munro and Effie Ross. A strange feature of the carving is the motto surrounding the Ross arms. " Nobilis est ira leonis." which was the motto of the Rosses of Shandwick and Balblair (descended from Hugh Ross, fourth Laird of Balnagowni, while the Effie Ross men- tioned was of the Rosses of Invercharron (de- scended from David Ross, seventh Laird of Balna- gown). It would seem that William Ross, of Ardgay, first of Inverchar- ron. must have adopted the motto of Shandwick. rather than the motto of Balnagown, " Spent suc- cessus alit." The carving contained no lines indicat- ing color. This interesting memorial of the past was some years ago removed by Lady Ross to Balna- LMiwn Castle. Many members of the family have been troubled about the different tinc- tures used by various members of the race both in this countrv and in Scotland, but modern English heraldry takes no account of the custom pre- vailing both in France and Scotland of differentiating the same coat-of-arms by changing the color of the shield and the color of the charges, to show a Arms of Ross. 87 younger branch. Neither does modern English heraldry say anything about the custom in both countries of taking crests for cadet houses other than the one used by the chief of the family. Malcolm Ross of Kindeace. third son of David Ross of Pitcalnie, received a grant of arms in 1672 which were thus described : " Gu. 3 Lyoncells ramp. arg., within a bordure, counter compound of the 2d and 1st; crest, a fox passant proper; motto, Caute 11011 astute." Alexander Ross, eldest son of the second marriage of the above Malcolm Ross of Kindeace, obtained a grant of arms from the Lyon office, dated March 1, 1699. He was styled " Master Alexander Ross, merchant in Copen- hagen, lawful son to Malcolm Ross of Kindeace, and lawfully descended of the family of Balnagown." The grant says : " The said Mr. Alexander for his ensigns armorial! Bears Gules three Lyoncells rampant argent, within a bordure counter compound of the second and first, and for his Brotherly difference a Crescent in abysm or in the center argent on an helmet answer- able to his degree with a mantle gules doubling argent, and wreath of his colours is sett for his Crest a Fox passant proper, with this motto in an Escroll above. Caute non astute." George Ross of Morangie, " descended of Balnagown," registered his arms at the Lyon office about 1672, as follows : " Gu. 3 lioncells rampant between as many stars arg.; next is placed on one torse for his crest a foxhead coupled proper ; motto, Spes aspera levat." Charles Ross, writer in Edinburgh, obtained a grant of arms from the Lyon office in 1703, which were described as follows : " Gu. 3 roses slipped in fees betwixt as many lioncells rampant arg.; above the shield an helmet befitting his degree mantled gu., doubled arg.; crest, a fox issuant out of the torse with a rose in his mouth proper ; motto, a Rosam ne rode." He was a descendant of Ross of Kindeace. David Ross of Priesthill, a judge in 1747, registered his coat of arms June 12, 1767, as follows : " Gu. three lions rampant, arg. and langued az., within a border of the second for difference ; crest, a dexter hand holding a laurel garland proper; motto, Nobilis est ira leonis." David Ross (born, 1775 ; died, 1799), a descendant of the house of Shand- wick, and a lieutenant in the First Regiment of Foot under General Burgoyne in America, registered a coat of arms on December 5, 1795, which was described as follows : " Gu. 3 Lyons ramp., arg. and on a chief or, 3 legs conjoined at the center at the upper part of the thigh, and flexed in triangle azure ; crest, a lymphad, her oars in action proper, flagged gules ; motto. Pro Patria." The arms of Ross of Shandwick, upon parchment, sent to Hon. John Ross, of Philadelphia, in 1764, by Hugh Ross, merchant in London, then head of the house of Shandwick, were for a long time in possession of Hon. John Read (1769-1854), Senator of Pennsylvania; they were afterward in pos- session of Miss Emily Read and Mrs. Major Reeves, her sister, and hung in their ancient mansion at Newcastle, Del. The parchment was later given to Miss Julia Ross Potter and now hangs in Mrs. William Potter's hospitable house, 21 19 Oak street, Baltimore, Md. 88 Rossi an a. The appended notes are taken from volume two of Stodart's " Scottish Arms " (being a collection of armorial bearings, 1370-1678, reproduced in facsimile from contemporary manuscripts, with heraldic and genealogical notes by R. R. Stodart, 1881) : Arms of Ross of Balnagown- [Stodart's " Scottish Arms. Referring to the arms of John, Earl of Ross and Lord of the Isles, Stodart says (page 37) : " The field should be gules, the lions argent, and the tressure probably or." Again, below, on the same page, he says : "In the armorial of Gilles Le Bouvier Berry Roi d'Armes, A. D. 1450-1455 is a shield described Anns of Ross. 89 as the arms of the Earl of Sutherland, but probably meant for those of the Earl of Ross, as the bearing of that family was gules three lions rampant argent. John, Earl of Sutherland at that time being the husband of Margaret, daughter of Alexander, Earl of Ross and lord of the Isles." In Forman's Roll (page 77) : " Ross of Balnagown — This is evidently Ross of Mont Grenane for which it must be intended, as Balnagown bore three lions rampant. Also the arms of Ross are usually first and fourth Scotland, second Ross, third Brechanbroke." Page 96: "Workman's MSS. mentions Robert II., and Euphemia Ross. In this MSS. there is a series of engravings with surcoats on which their arms- are represented." Page 284: "The second Lindsey MS. 1603-5, mentions the Lord of Ross. Melville in the first and fourth quarters. Then mentions the laird of Balna- gown. The arms of the Lord of the Isles are in Lindsey. Bouvier gives those of one of the latter Lords." Page 288: " Ross of Balnagown. Balnagown was granted by William Earl of Ross before 1370 to his brother Hugh, with whose descendants it remained until the death without issue in 171 1 of David Ross. This gentleman left the estate, which had been erected into a barony in 1615, away from his right heirs. He seems to have a passion for executing long documents, as he not only made three different deeds of entail, but arranged to execute a resignation of his pretentions to the Earldom of Ross in favour of William Lord Ross of Hawk- head, who hoped to obtain a regrant from the Crown. Balnagown had two sisters — Isabel, who married Innes of Lightnet, and Catherine, the wife of John MacKenzie of Inverlawell ; Malcolm Ross of Pitcalnie became heir male and his descendant is the present representative. Two savages were borne as supporters. The seal of Hugh of Rarichies afterwards of Balnagown in 1351,. at which time his elder brother was alive, has a mullet in base as a mark of difference and what Mr. Laign describes as a bordure charged with eleven escalopes or ermine spots ; perhaps this is the tressure which was borne by several of the Earls of Ross." The following paragraphs probably refer to one of the numerous families- of Rose, as the description of the arms would indicate : Speaking of the Le Sire de Ros (page 33) : "At this time Thomas de Ros, Baron of Hamlake, was the representative of the great house to which belonged William de Ros, a competitor for the Crown of Scotland in 1296. Three water bougets were his arms, and gules, three water bougets argent, is the blazon in the Caerlaverock Roll. It does not, however, seem very likely that in 1370 this family of Ros would be included in a Scotch roll of arms, as their connection with that country had long ceased. Page 101 : " Workman's MSS. Lord Ros. Quartered, or, a chevron chequered sable and argent, between water bougets of the second; second and third gules, three crescents argent within a border of the second, charged with eight roses of the field ; crest, a fox courant ; motto, " Thynk on ;'" supporters, two falcons. The crest was soon after changed to a falcon's head.' CLAN OF ROSS. THIS tribe is designated by the Highlanders as the Clan Anrias, which is altogether different from their name, as in a similar way, the Robert- sons are called the Clan Donnachie. In the ancient genealogical history they are called " Clan Anrias," and it begins with Paul MacTire, to whom William, Earl of Ross, Lord of Skye, granted a charter for the lands of Gairloch in 1366, witnessed by Alexander, Bishop of Ross, Hergone. brother of Earl William, Henry the Seneschal, and others. Robertson mentions that in the Earl of Haddington's Collections he met with an entry in the reign of Alexander II., dated about 1220, of a " charter to Ferquhard Ross, of the Earldom of Ross." This Ferquhard, he adds, was called Macant-Sagart, or the Priest's son, and has, with reason, been supposed to be the son of Gille-Anrias, from whom the clan took its name. He founded the Abbey of Fearn, in Ross-shire, in the reign of Alexander II. His son. Earl William, was one of the Scottish nobles who, under Alexander III., bound themselves to make no peace with England in which the Prince and chiefs of Wales were not included. This line ended in Euphemia, Countess of Ross, who became a nun, and resigned the Earldom of Ross to her uncle, John, Earl of Buchan. The Rosses of Balnagown were a very ancient line, as they sprang from William, Earl of Ross, a great patriot and steady friend of Robert I. His son, Earl Hugh, was killed at Halidon Hill, hghting for his King and country, in 1334. The ancient Rosses of Balnagown failed, and by an unusual circumstance the estate came, by purchase, to another family of the same name, the Lords Ross of Hawkhead. an old and very honorable branch of the clan, which failed on the death of George, twelfth Lord Ross, in 1754, at Ross House, and of his son. the Master, at Mount Teviot, when his title went to the Earls of Glasgow. The line of Balnagown is thus given in 1729 by George Crawfurd, His- toriographer for Scotland, and other authorities. Hugh Ross, second son of Hugh, Earl of Ross, married the heiress of Balnagown. and was succeeded by William, second laird of Ba'nagown, who married a daughter of the Lord Livingstone. Their son William mar- ried Catharine, the daughter of Paul MacTire. She was the heiress of Strathcarron, Strathoykel, and Fostray. Hugh, third laird of Balnagown, married Lady Janet, daughter of the Earl of Sutherland, and had by her John, his heir, and William Ross of Little Allan and Coulnaki, predecessor of the Rosses of Shandwick. John, fourth of Balnagown, married a daughter of Torquil MacLeod of the Lewes. Their son Alexander married a lady of the Duff us family, and had " Sir David Ross, who married Helen of Inverugie, daughter to Mari- schal's predecessor, by whom he had Walter, his son and heir, and William BADGE OF THE CLAN OF ROSS And where low, tufted broom or box or berry'd juniper arise. Dyer "The Fleece" Our woods with juniper and chestnuts crown'd With falling fruit and berries paint the ground And lavish Nature laughs and strews her stores around. Dryden "Seventh Pastoral" Origin of the Clan System. 91 who was the root of Rosses of Invercharron and its branches. The said Walter married Mary, daughter of James Grant of Frenchy, Laird of Grant." Their son Alexander was twice married. First, to Jean, daughter of George, Earl of Caithness, by whom he had George, his successor; second, to Katharine, daughter of MacKenzie of Kintail. by whom he had a son Nicholas, the first of the line of Pitcalnie. He died in 1591. George, sixth of Balnagown, married Marjorie. daughter of Sir John Campbell of Cawdor, with " a tachor of 3000 merks " in 1572. They had a daughter, married to the Laird of Kintail, and a son, David, seventh of Balnagown, who. by Anne of Tullibardine, had a son, " David the Loyal." who married Mary, Lord Lovat's daughter. He died at Windsor Castle after the Restoration, and Charles II. bestowed upon him and his heirs for ever a pension of 4000 merks Scots, yearly. David, the last Laird of Balnagown, married Lady Ann Stewart, daughter of the Earl of Murray, and dying without issue, conveyed his estate to Brigadier Charles Ross, son of George, tenth Lord Ross of Hawkhead, by his second wife, Lady Jean Ramsay, daughter to the Earl of Dalhousie. The Brigadier was an officer of high military reputation, and in 1729 was Colonel of the old 5th Royal Irish Horse, raised in 1688, and disbanded after the Rebellion of 1798. Ross of Pitcalnie was supposed to represent the ancient line of Balnagown, the present Baronets of Balnagown being in reality Lockharts. In 1745 the fighting force of the clan was 500 men. ORIGIN OF THE CLAN SYSTEM. 1 The Goidelic word eland or claim (in Welsh, plant) signifies seed, and in a general sense children, descendants. In the latter sense it was used as one of many terms to designate groups of kindred in the tribal system of government which existed in Ireland and the Highlands of Scot- land. Through the latter country the word passed into the English language, first in the special sense of the Highland clan, afterwards as a general name into the tenure of land in different countries and the ancient laws and insti- tutions of Aryan nations, and the publication of various Celtic documents, particularly the ancient laws of Ireland and Wales, have thrown much light on the constitution of the clan system, and given it a wider and more important interest than it had hitherto possessed. Before the use of surnames and the elaborate written genealogies, a tribe in its definite sense was called a tuath, a word of wide affinities, from a root tit, to grow, to multiply, existing in all European languages. When the tribal system began to be broken up by conquest and by the rise of towns and of territorial government, the use of a common surname furnished a new bond for keeping up a connection between kindred. The head of a tribe or smaller group of kindred selected some ancestor and called himself his Ua, grandson, or as it has been anglicized, O' , e. g., Ua Conchobair (O' Conor), Ua Suit- !This article on the origin of the clan system, which has been inserted as being of interest to many readers, is from the Encyclopaedia Britannica, vol. 5, pages 799 et seq. 9 2 Rossiana. leabhain (O'Sullivan). All his kindred adopted the same name, the chief using no fore-name whatever. The usual mode of distinguishing a person before the introduction of surnames was to name his father and grandfather, c. g., Owen, son of Donal, son of Dermot. This naturally led some to form their surnames with Mac, son, instead of Ua, grandson, c. g., Mac Carthaigh, son of Carthach (Mac Carthy). Mac Ruaidhri, son of Rory (Macrory). Both methods have been followed in Ireland, but in Scotland Mac came to be exclusively used. The adoption of such genealogical surnames fostered the notion that all who bore the same surname were kinsmen, and hence the genealogical term chum, which properly means the descendants of some progenitor, gradually became synonymous with tuath, tribe. Like all purely genealogical terms, claim may be used in the limited sense of a particular tribe governed by a chief, or in that of many tribes claiming descent from a common ancestor. In the latter sense it was synonymous with sil, siol, seed, e. g., siol Alpine, a great clan which included the smaller clans of the Macgregors, Grants, Mackinnons, Macnabs, Macphies, Macquarries, and Macaulays. The clan system, in the most archaic form of which we have any definite information, can be best studied in the Irish tuath, or tribe. This consisted of two classes: — (i) tribesmen, and (2) a miscellaneous class of slaves, criminals, strangers, and their descendants. The first class included tribes- men by blood in the male line, including all illegitimate children acknowl- edged by their fathers, and tribesmen by adoption or sons of tribeswomen by strangers, foster-sons, men who had done some signal service to the tribe, and lastly the descendants of the second class after a certain number of generations. Each tuath had a chief called a rig, king, a word cognate with the Gaulish rigs or ri.x, the Latin reg-s or rex, and the Old Norse rik-ir. The tribesmen formed a number of communities, each of which, like the tribe itself, consisted of a head, ccann fine, his kinsmen, slaves, and other retainers. This was the tine, or sept. Each of these occupied a certain part of the tribe-land, the arable part being cultivated under a system of co-tillage, the pasture land co-grazed according to certain customs, and the wood, bog, and mountains forming the march-land of the sept being the unrestricted common land of the sept. The sept was in fact a village community like the Russian mir, or rather like the German gcmcinde and Swiss altnend, which Sir H. S. Maine, M. de Laveleye, and others have shown to have preceded in every European country the existing order of things as respects owner- ship of land. What the sept was to the tribe, the homestead was to the sept. The head of a homestead was an aire, a representative freeman capable of acting as a witness, compurgator, and bail. These were very important functions, especially when it is borne in mind that the tribal homestead was the home of many of the kinsfolk of the head of the family as well as of his own children. The descent of property being according to a gavel-kind custom, it constantly happened that when an aire died the share of his property which each member of his immediate family was entitled to receive was not suffi- cient to qualify him to.be an aire. In this case the family did not divide the inheritance, but remained together as "a joint and undivided family," one Origin of the Clan System. 93 of the members being elected chief of the family or household, and in this capacity enjoyed the rights and privileges of an aire. Sir H. S. Maine has directed attention to this kind of family as an important feature of the early institution of all Aryan nations. Beside the "joint and undivided family" there was another kind of family which we might call " the joint family." This was a partnership composed of three or four members of a sept whose individual wealth was not sufficient to qualify each of them to be an aire, but whose joint wealth qualified one of the co-partners as head of the joint family to be one. So long as there was abundance of land each family grazed its cattle upon the tribe-land without restriction ; unequal increase of wealth and growth of population naturally led to its limitation, each head of a homestead being entitled to graze an amount of stock in proportion to his wealth, the size of his homestead, and his acquired position. The arable land was no doubt applotted annually at first, gradually, however, some of the richer families of the tribe succeeded in evading this exchange of allotments and converting part of the common land into an estate in severalty. Septs were at first colonies of the tribe which settled on the march-land ; afterwards the con- version of part of the common land into an estate in severalty enabled the family that acquired it to become the parent of a new sept. The same process might, however, take place within a sept without dividing it ; in other words, several members of the sept might hold part of the land of the sept as separate estate. The possession of land in severalty introduced an important distinction into the tribal system — it created an aristocracy. An aire whose family held the same land for three generations was called a flaith, or lord, of which rank there were several grades according to their wealth in land and chattels. The aires whose wealth consisted in cattle only were called bo-aires, or cow-aires, of whom there were also several grades, depending on their wealth in stock. When a bo-aire had twice the wealth of the lowest class of flaith he might enclose part of the land adjoining his house as a lawn; this was the first step towards his becoming a flaith. The relations which subsisted between the flaiths and the bo-aires formed the most curious part of the Celtic tribal system, and throw a flood of light on the origin of the feudal system. Every tribesman without exception owed ccilsinne to the rig, or chief, that is, he was bound to become his ceile, or vassal. This consisted in paying the rig a tribute in kind, for which the ceile was entitled to receive a proportionate amount of stock without having to give any bond for their return, giving him service, c. g., in building his dun, or stronghold, reaping his harvest, keeping the roads clean and in repair, killing wolves, and especially service in the field, and doing him homage three times while seated every time he made his return of tribute. Paying the " calpe" to the Highland chiefs represented this kind of vassalage, a colpdach or heifer being in many cases the amount of food-rent paid by a free or saer ceile. A tribesman might, however, if he pleased, pay a higher rent on receiving more stock together with certain other chattels for which no rent was chargeable. In this case he entered into a contract, and was therefore a bond or daer ceile. No one need have accepted stock on these terms, nor •could he do so without the consent of his sept, and he might free himself 94 Rossiana. at any time from his obligation by returning what he had received, and the rent due thereon. What every one was bound to do to his rig, or chief, he might do volun- tarily to the fiaith of his sept, to any fiaith of the tribe, or even to one of another tribe. He might also become a bond ccilc. In either case he might renounce his ceileship by returning a greater or lesser amount of stock than what he had received according to the circumstances under which he ter- minated his vassalage. Hence the anxiety of minor chieftains, in later times in the Highlands of Scotland, to induce the clansmen to pay the " calpe" where there happened to be a doubt as to who was entitled to be chief. The effect of the custom of gavel-kind was to equalize the wealth of each and leave no one wealthy enough to be chief. The " joint and undivided family," and the formation of "joint families," or gilds, was one way of obviating this result; another way was the custom of tanistry. The head- ship of the tribe was practically confined to the members of one family; this was also the case with the headship of a sept. Sometimes a son succeeded his father, but the rule was that the eldest and most capable member of the geilfine, that is the relatives of the actual chief to the fifth degree, 1 was selected during his lifetime to be his successor, — generally the eldest sur- viving brother or son of the preceding chief. The man selected as successor to a chief of a tribe, or chieftain of a sept, was called the tanist, and should be " the most experienced, the most noble, the most wealth}-, the wisest, the most learned, the most truly popular, the most powerful to oppose, the most steadfast to sue for profits and [be sued] for losses." In addition to these qualities he should be free from personal blemishes and deformities, and of fit age to lead his tribe or sept, as the case may be, to battle." So far as selecting the man of the geilfine who was supposed to possess all those qualities, the office of chief of a tribe or chieftain of a sept was elective, but as the geilfine was represented by four persons together with the chief or chieftain, the election w r as practically confined to one of the four. In order to support the dignity of the chief or chieftain a certain portion of the tribe or sept was attached as an appanage to the office; this land, with the duns, or fortified residences upon it, went to the successor, but a chief's own property might be gavelled. This custom of tanistry applied at first prob- ably to the selection of the successors of a rig but was gradually so extended that even a bo-aire had a tanist. A sept might have only one fiaitJi, or lord, connected with it, or might have several. It sometimes happened, however, that a sept might be so broken and reduced as not to have even one man qualified to rank as a fiaith. The rank of a fiaith depended upon the number of his ceiles, that is, upon his wealth. The fiaith of a sept, and the highest when there was *It is right to mention that the explanation here given of geilfine is different from that given in the introduction to the third volume of the Ancient Laws of Ireland, which has been followed by Sir H. S. Maine in his account of it in his Early History of Institutions, and which the present writer believes to be erroneous. 2 It should also be mentioned that illegitimacy was not a bar. The issue of " handfest " marriages in Scotland were eligible to be chiefs, and even sometimes claimed under feudal law. Origin of the Clan System. 95 more than one, was ceann fine, or head of the sept, or as he was usually called in Scotland, the chieftain. He was also called the flaith geilfine, or head of the geilfine, that is, the kinsmen to the fifth degree from among whom should be chosen the tanist, and who according to the custom of gavel-kind were the immediate heir- who received the personal property and were answerable for the liabilities of the sept. The flaiths of the different septs were the vassals of the rig, or chief of the tribe and performed certain functions which were no doubt at first individual, but in time became the hereditary right of the sept. One of those was the office of maer, or steward of the chief's rents, &c. j 1 and another that of aire tuisi, leading aire, or taoiscch, a word cognate with the Latin dues or dux, and Anglo-Saxon heve-tog, leader of the " here," or army. The taoiscch was leader of the tribe in battle ; in later times the term seems to have been extended to sev- eral offices of rank. The cadet of a Highland clan was always called the taoiscch, which has been translated captain ; after the conquest of Wales the same term, tywysaug, was used for a ruling prince. Slavery was very common in Ireland and Scotland; in the former slaves constituted a common element in the stipends or gifts which the higher kings gave their vassal sub-reguli. Female slaves who were employed in the houses of chiefs and flaiths in grinding meal with the hand-mill or quern, and in other domestic work, must have been very common, for the unit or standard for estimating the wealth of a bo-aire, blood-fines, &c, was called a cuinhal, the value of which was three cows, but which literally meant a female slave. The descendants of those slaves, prisoners of war, forfeited hostages, refugees from other tribes, broken tribesmen, &c, gathered round the residence of the rig and flaiths, or squatted upon their march-lands, forming a motley band of retainers which made a considerable element in the population, and one of the chief sources of the wealth of chiefs and flaiths. The other principal source of their income was the food-rent paid by ccilcs, and espe- cially by the daer or bond ccilcs. who were hence called biathachs, from biad, food. A flaith. but not a rig, might, if he liked, go to the house of his ceile and consume his food-rent in the house of the latter. Under the influence of feudal ideas and the growth of the modern views as to ownership of land, the chiefs and other lords of clans claimed in modern times the right of bestowing the tribe-land as turcrec, instead of stock, and receiving rent not for cattle and other chattels as in former times, but proportionate to the extent of land given to them. The turcrec- land seems to have been at first given upon the same terms as turcrec-stock, 1 This office is of considerable importance in connection with early Scottish history. In the Irish annals the rig, or chief of a great tribe (mor tuath), such as of Ross, Moray, Marr, Buchan, &c, is called a mor, maer, or great maer. Sometimes the same person is called king also in these annals. Thus Findlaec, or Finlay, son of Ruadhri, the father of Shakespeare's Macbeth, is called king of Moray in the Annals of Ulster, and mor maer in the Annals of Tighernach. The term is never found in Scottish charters, but it occurs in the Book of the Abbey of Deir in Buchan, now in the library of the University of Cambridge. The Scotic kings and their successors obviously regarded the chiefs of the great tribes in question merely as their maers, while their tribesmen only knew them as kings. From these " mor-maerships," which corresponded with the ancient mor tuatha, came most, if not all, the ancient Scottish earldoms. •96 Rossi an a. but gradually a system of short leases grew up ; sometimes, too, it was given on mortgage. In the Highlands of Scotland ceiles who received turcrec- land were called " taksmen." On the death of the chief or lord, his suc- cessor either bestowed the land upon the same person or gave it to some other relative. In this way in each generation new families came into possession of land, and others sank into the mass of mere tribesmen. Sometimes a "taksman" succeeded in acquiring his land in perpetuity, by gift, marriage, or purchase, or even by the " strong hand." The universal prevalence of exchangeable allotments, or the rundale system, shows that down to even comparatively modern times some of the land was still recog- nized as the property of the tribe, and was cultivated in village communities. The chief governed the clan by the aid of a council called the sabaid (sab, a prop), but the chief exercised much power, especially over the miscel- laneous body of non-tribesmen who lived on his own estate. The power seems to have extended to life and death. Several of the fiaiths, perhaps, all heads of septs, also possessed somewhat extensive powers of the same kind. The Celtic dress, at least in the Middle Ages, consisted of a kind of shirt reaching to a little below the knees called a lenn, a jacket called an inar, and a garment called a brat, consisting of a single piece of cloth. This was apparently the garb of the aires, who appear to have been further distin- guished by the number of colours in their dress, for we are told that while a slave had clothes of one colour, a rig tuatha, or chief of a tribe, had five, and an ollamh and a superior king, six. The breeches was also known, and cloaks with a cowl or hood, which buttoned up tight in front. The lenn is the modern kilt, and the brat the plaid, so that the dress of the Irish and Welsh in former times was the same as that of the Scottish Highlander. By the abolition of the heritable jurisdiction of the Highland chiefs, and the general disarmament of the clans by the Acts passed in 1747 after the rebellion of 1745, the clan system was practically broken up, though its influ- ence still lingers in the more remote districts. An Act was also passed in 1747 forbidding the use of the Highland garb; 1 but the injustice and impolicy of such a law being generally felt it was afterwards repealed. (w. k. s.) 1 The following oath was administered at Fort 'William and other places in 1747 and 1748:— " I, [name], do swear, as I shall answer to God at the great day of judgment, that I have not, nor shall have, in my possession any gun, sword, pistol, or any arm whatsoever, and that I never use tartan, plaid, or any part of the Highland garb; and if I do so, may I be cursed in my undertakings, family and property, — may I never see my wife and children, father, mother, or relations, — may I be killed in battle as a coward, and lie without Christian burial in a strange land, far from the graves of my forefathers and kindred; may all this come across me if I break my oath." -TAR-TAN OF" "THE! CLAN OR ROSS SHANDWICK SUCCESSION. Settlement of the Contest in 1876 — Efforts to Discover a Missing Family Tree Sent by Hugh Ross, Merchant in London and Head of the House of Shandwick, to Hon. John Ross, Counselor-at-Law in Philadelphia, in 1764 — Discovery of a Similar Tree Sent to Another John Ross. BY THE death of the direct representative of the house of Shandwick (Miss Cockburn Ross), without issue, in 1872, the question of the succession to the estate was left open, and a number of claimants appeared, all basing their claims upon descent from Andrew Ross, seventh of Shandwick, from whom Miss Cockburn Ross had descended. The final disposition of the matter depended upon the order of birth of the several sons of Andrew. An effort was made by the attorneys of some of the claimants to discover a certain family tree which, their records showed, had been sent in 1764 to Hon. John Ross, counselor-at-law in Philadelphia, grand- son of David Ross of Balblair, and a descendant of the house of Shandwick through the branch of Balmachy, by his kinsman, Hugh Ross, merchant in London, then head of the Shandwick house. After much correspondence with American representatives of the Ross family, the matter was finally referred to General Meredith Read, a descend- ant of David Ross of Balblair, who made an earnest effort to recover the missing tree by a search of the family archives. He found, first, a letter dated 1763, from Hon. John Ross to Dr. Gordon, then about to sail for England, as follows : Philad: April 30th, 1763. Dear Sir. — As it is a doubtful point whether my name sakes in London be of the same family with myself I decline writeing to either of those gentlemen till I am satisfied in that matter and the rather least they should imagine I wanted to scrape kindred with them, and call on them for some favours inconsistent with their inclinations or interest to grant. But because I honoured and loved my good father and entertained a high affection to all to whom he was, (and through him I now am), related and should greatly rejoice to find any branch of his family resident in London with whom I might now and then correspond, I must entreat your kind favor to examine whether any relationship subsists between these gentlemen and myself, & favor me with a line on the occasion, and should that be my happy case, I trust that they never will have occasion to be ashamed of any American Relation ; and the better to enable you to make this enquiry, permit me to subjoin an extract of my father's own account sent me of his birth and parentage. I wish you a safe and pleasant passage, and am with great truth Dr Doctor Your most obedt humble servant John Ross. This letter, enclosing an account of his descent by Rev. George Ross, was in due season presented by Dr. Gordon to Hugh Ross, merchant in London, head 98 Rossiana. of the house of Shanchvick, who wrote as follows to David Ross, writer in Edinburgh : London, March 22d, 1764. Dear Sir. — ■ You'l see by the within Letters to Doctor Gordin from John Ross Esqr Counselor of Law at Philadelphia That this gentlemen's father was second son of David Ross of Balblair, I must referr you to the very full and distinct account he gives of himself and as Mr. John Ross son of George Ross Rector of Newcastle in Philadelphia is desirous of having the best Account possible of his Pedigree and descent; I desire that you'l get such from the best authoritys you can and have it properly attested and the gentle- man's connections as to my family as they will appear to be, as I shall be glad of every connection to a gentleman of Mr Ross's character. If you was to consult my brother Sandy those matters I do not presume to shine in equal to him and I believe it would afford him some pleasure. You'l tell my brother I wonder I do not hear from him. I am &ca Hugh Ross. Hugh Ross of Shandwick, writer of the above, some six months later, wrote to Hon. John Ross, counselor-at-law in Philadelphia, enclosing the family tree mentioned as being likely to have an important bearing on the Shandwick succession. The letter follows : Dr Sr Dr Gordon having delivered me yours and coppys of my worthy kinsman your deceased fay r ' s faithful detail of his and your descent I sent coppys to them in Ross-shire where I have not been for many years. Your uncle Andrew Ross of Balblair long since dead, (whom I knew) left an only son, Andrew Ross, Doctor of Medecine of Kingston of Jamaica, also dead without heirs, so that I think you must be the male representative of that house? And as I find your ho. of Balblair is from mine of Shandwick I hand you a ace* y r of herew 1 not inferior to any extant as your worthy fay r truly tells you. My eldest br died a bachelor you shall find me his heir as the his- toriographer of Scotland's deduction shows. A parchment whereof herewt, also Blazon of my coat armorial on parchmt witout any risk of cadency as my h° of Alan and Shandwick are 290 years from the Earl of Ross and Barnv of Rarichies and Bal : if you desire any further voucher and regular cadency it will be expensive from the Lyon King at Arms his Court Ed r but as you stand cadet of a decayed house of Balamuchy from me you may take what crest and mottoe you please ; my coat has a star or mullet in front of the Lyons. Balblair of your title was purch* by my br as it was part of his ho. originally. It remains yt. I assure you of the pleasure Dr Gordon's hon'ble accts of you gave me. Mrs Ross and two boys all wish good offices for you and yours, please to reive. Your commands for me at London shall meet w< reciprocal punctuality, being w l my little family's respects to yours. With great truth and esteem, Hugh Ross. London, St. Mary Axe, October 1st, 1764. The family tree mentioned here as having been sent to Hon. John Ross was undoubtedly a copy of the tree prepared by George Crawfurd, the his- toriographer of Scotland, in 1729, another copy of which was in possession Note. — The account of the Ross family given above by Hugh Ross in his letter to Hon. John Ross is supported by documents in the muniment room in Dunrobin Castle, Golspie, Sutherlandshire, Scotland, the seat of the Duke of Sutherland, as well as by the clear and comprehensive account prepared by Mr. Frai*cis Nevile- Reid, which appears elsewhere in this volume. No branch of the Ross family in Ametica, however, ever bore a mullet or any other mark of cadency. Shandwick Succession. 99 of the attorneys interested in the matter of the Shandwick succession. Its value lay in the fact that the copy in Edinburgh showed that certain entries had been made in a handwriting different from the remainder of the instru- ment, and it was expected that the American copy, if found, would, by com- parison, show whether these entries were a later production than the tree itself. The Crawford tree, of which the American document was supposed to have been a copy, is as follows : A Geneologie of the Ancient Earls of Ross and of the male repre- sentative of this illustrious Family and its branches, and particu- larly of the Rosses of Shandwick. It is agreed on by all antiquaries that the Earldom of Ross is one of the most antient erections we have. Our history mentions — Macinsagart Comes Rossensis, in the reign of King William, that by his valour and conduct he defeated the rebellious Murrays and obliged them to submit to the king's mercy. He was succeeded by his son — Ferchard, Earl of Ross, whom our historians mention with great honour. In the reign of Alexander the Second he founded the Abbacy of Fern, in the County and Earldome of Ross and the Chanors of Tain; he died at Tayn the first day of February, 1257. He was succeeded by — Willielmus Comes de Ross, his son, of whom there is very honorable mention made in the Federa Angliae in the year 1258. He married Jean, daughter of William, Earl of Buchan, and had by her — William, his son and heir, which William, the second of that name, suc- ceeded his father in 1294, and is mentioned in the Federa and other authen- tick vouchers in the competition for the crown betwixt the Bruce and the Baliol. He married Matilda Bruce, daughter of Robert, Earl of Carrick, and sister to King Robert the Bruce, as by several original charters the author of this memorial has seen and perused, granted by the said King and Matilda, his sister, and to their heirs. By this noble Lady he had a son — Hugh, who was his successor, which Hugh adhered with great fidelity to King Robert the Second, and contributed not a little to fix him on the throne. He adhered with no less fidelity to his son. King David the Second, in whose service, and in that of his country, he lost his life at the battle of Halidon Hill, anno 1332. He left behind him two sons — William, his successor, and Hugh Ross of Rarichies and Balnagown, in whom the male line of this illustrious family, after the extinction of the dignity, came to be possessed. This Earl [Hugh] had also two daughters — Eupham, married, first, to John Randolph, Earl of Murray, &c. ; afterwards to Robert, the second of that name, King of Scotland and first of our Kings of the Stewartine Line ; and Jannet, the second daughter, was married to Sir Alexander Murray of Abercarny. as appears from the original contract, by way of indenture, which the author of this paper has seen. To Hugh, Earl of Ross, succeeded — William, his son, who, being a weak and easy man, was by the craft and cunning of Sir Walter Lessly, his son-in-law, circumvened out of his estate, that, by the laws and constitution of Scotland, should have gone, as all masculine feus had ever gone, to his brother, Hugh Ross of Balnagown. But Sir Walter Lessly, being in a high degree of favour, and having got the Earldom resigned in favour of his wife, there was no remedy, tho' the Earl himself supplicated the King again and again to have Sir Walter Lessly's right again tryed, but I see no regard was had to his remonstrance. The original remonstrance I have. Upon Earl William's death the honour did not descend to Eupham Ross, his eldest daughter, tho' she had the estate ; nor did her unkle Hugh assume it, because he had not the estate to support the honour of the family; nor was even Sir Walter Lesly Earl of Ross, but after his decease his wife, having the estate, she resigned in favor of Alexander Lesly. her son, who, upon that, was invested and de novo created Earl of Ross by King Robert the third, per cincturam gladii comitatus, according to the antient rite and form of creation. But he dieing without ioo Rossi a 11 a. issue male, the estate came to Eupham Lesly, his only daughter, who made it over to her tinkle, Sir John Stewart of" Coule, afterwards the famous Earl of Buchan. The antient Earls of Ross having thus lost their estate, the right of the representation in the male line is in the heir male of the antient and honour- able family of Balnagown, as hath been said, the first of whom was Hugh Ross, second son of Hugh, Earl of Ross, and brother and heir male to Earl William. He was succeeded by — William, the second laird of the house of Balnagown, who married . daughter to the Lord Livingstone, and had by her — William, the third of the family, who married Catherine, daughter of Paul MacTyre, heiress of Strathcarron, and had by her — Hugh, of Balnagown, his son and heir, who married Janet, daughter to the Earl of Sutherland, and had by her his son and heir [John] and William Ross of Little Allan, of whom the Rosses of Shandwick, to which branch we shall confine our deduction of the line of this antient and honourable family. John of Balnagown, who married Isabell, daughter of Torquil MacLeod of the Lewis., had — Alexander, his son and heir, which Alexander married Jean, daughter of Sir Alexander Sutherland of Duffus, and had — ■ Sir David, his son and heir, who married Helen, daughter to William. Earl Marishal, and had by her — Walter, his successor, and William, who was the root of the Rosses of Invercharron and its branch ; which Walter, Laird of Balnagown. married Mary, daughter of James Grant of Freuchie, Laird of Grant, and had — Alexander Ross of Balnagown, who married, first, Jean, daughter of George, Earl of Caithness, by whom he had George, his successor. He [Alexander] married, next, Margaret, daughter of MacKenzie, Laird of Kintail, by whom he had a son Nicolas, who was the first man of the House of Pitcalnie: he dyed in 1591. George Ross of Balnagown married Marjerie, daughter of Sir John Camp- bell of Calder, brother to the Earl of Argyle. by whom he had — David, his successor, and a daughter, married to the Laird Kintail. David, next Baron of Balnagown, married, first, Jean, daughter of John. Earl of Sutherland, and again, Anne, daughter to William, Earl of Tullibardin, ancestor to the Duke of Athol, by whom he had — David, the last Laird, who married the Earl of Murray's daughter, and. dying without issue, he conveyed his estate to Brigadier Charles Ross, son of George, Lord Ross, by his second wife. Lady Jean Ramsay, daughter of William, Earl of Dalhousie, who died Governour of Portsmouth, and Generall of all his Majesties British Horse, etc. The Branch of the House of Shandwick, regularly deducted from the Family of Balnagown. As we have observed in this deduction, the first of this branch of the house of Balnagown was William Ross of Little Allan, second son of Hugh Ross, second of that name and the third Laird of Balnagown, by Janet, his wife, daughter of William, Earl of Sutherland. This gentleman, William Ross of Little Allan, married, first, a niece of the great MacDonald, John. Lord of the Isles, and Earl of Ross, but whether by his brother Hugh of Slate or of McAlestine of Lochalsh, predecessors to the MacDonalds of Glengarrie, is not so clear. By this lady, his first wife, he had Alexander and — Walter Ross of Shandwick, who married six times, but presumitur by his first. Lady Janet, daughter of Walter Tulloch of Bonnieston, he had — David Ross of Shandwick, his eldest son and heir, who married Clunes of Milderge, by whom he had two sons — Andrew, his successor, and Mr. Robert Ross, parson of Allness, whose son, William Ross, came to be Laird of Shandwick. This William, so succeeding to the estate of Shandwick, married Margaret Campbell, daughter of Colin Campbell of Dellny, by whom he had issue — Shandwick Succession. 101 Andrew Ross of Shandwick, his son and heir, who married Isabell, daugh- ter of William Ross of Invercharron, a branch of the antient family of Balnagovvn, by whom he had — Andrew Ross of Shandwick, his son and heir, who married Christian, daughter of William Ross of Ardgay, by whom he had issue — Mr. William Ross, apparent of Shandwick, in Edinburgh. Hugh Ross, his second son, factor and merchant at Gothenburg, in Sweden. * Andrew Ross, his third son. Alexander Ross, his fourth son. * David Ross, his fifth son. Walter, sixth. Charles, seventh. Robert, eighth. Farquhar, ninth, and the tenth born Doctor a. 7 mo. aft. birth. The armorial bearings of this antient family is the same with the old Earls of Ross, vizt. : Argent three lions rampant gules, with a brotherly cognisance as a younger son of the House of Balnagown, the heir male ant representative of the antient Earls of Ross. This account of the family of Ross of Shandwick, as branched in this deduction from the antient Earls of Ross, was drawn from antient and modern charters and other authentic documents by me. (Signed) George Craufurd. Edinburgh. 10th February, 1729. CORRESPONDENCE RELATIVE TO THE SHANDWICK SUCCESSION. Edward Armstrong, Esq., of Philadelphia, wrote to General Meredith Read, under date of August 12, 1873, as follows, concerning the disputed Shandwick succession : " I have been applied to by Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne a respectable law firm of No. 56 Frederick Street, Edinburgh, to endeavor to recover a genealogical tree of the Ross family which I understand was many years ago sent out from Scotland to the Rev. Mr. Ross, Rector of Emmanuel Church, Newcastle, Delaware, the father of John Ross, who was a distinguished lawyer. " It appears that a trial is about to take place to establish the question of succession in Scotland, and the controversy, I am informed by Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne, has no sort of relation to the interests of the Ross family of Newcastle, Delaware. I wrote to the Rev. C. Spence, the present Rector of Emmanuel Church, who I understand applied to your cousin, the author of the life of George Read, without success, and to my great regret, for many reasons the latter shortly after died, for I highly esteemed and respected him. " I then wrote to your father, who kindly suggested that Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne might derive some information about the tree if they wrote to you, and that you had prepared a biography of John Ross. " Should they write to you, you would confer a personal favour if you would give them such information as you may possess as to the tree. " You have had a life of startling experiences since I saw you, and you may be assured that it afforded me great satisfaction to learn that you had escaped the terrible perils of the siege." *Note. — The Christian names Andrew and David, and those of all the sons after David, are in a different handwriting from the rest of the tree, and it was this fact which gave rise to the contest for the estate of Shandwick. decided in 1876. 102 Rossi an a. Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne to General Meredith Read. Upon the receipt of this letter. General Meredith Read wrote to Messrs. Stuart & Cheyne. offering to give any information or assistance in his power, and received the following reply under date of August 29, 1873: " Sir. — We were about writing to you in consequence of a letter from Mr. Armstrong of Philadelphia, when we received this morning yours of the 27th, by which we are obliged. " What we are in search of is a genealogical tree of a family of Ross of Shandwick in this country, which was sent by a member of that family Mr. Hugh Ross, merchant in London, to his relative Mr. John Ross, counsellor at law in Philadelphia, in 1764, and which, if it could be found, would throw light upon the question of succession in which we are engaged. " We understand from Mr. Armstrong that you prepared a sketch of the life of Mr. John Ross. Possibly therefore his family papers may have come into your hands, or you may be able to direct us to some quarter where such may be found. It would be very obliging, if you have the means of doing so, if you would enable us to trace the paper in question." John Whitefoord MacKenzie to General Meredith Read. General Meredith Read, having written to John Whitefoord MacKenzie, the well-known antiquary and book collector, of 16 Royal Circus, Edinburgh, concerning the Rosses of Balblair, incidentally mentioned the Shandwick matter, and in his reply, dated September 22, 1873, that gentleman said : " The estate you allude to the succession of which is at present in dispute, is that of Shandwick in Ross-shire, which belonged to an old lady Miss Cockburn Ross, who was insane for long before her death. " My friend, old Mr. Ross of Kerse, always held that his family would succeed, but since the old lady's death it has been found that this is a mistake, and that they have retired from the competition. I have been told that a Mr. Reid is thought by some to have the best claim, but I am ignorant of the grounds on which it rests. I have never seen him or his case, although the gentleman who was guardian to the old lady (and who, I think, was inclined to believe that he himself had some claim ) , told me he had heard it stated that I considered Mr. Reid's case a good one." R. R. Stodart, Esq., to General Meredith Read. Pursuing his investigation. General Meredith Read wrote to R. R. Stodart, Esq., of the Lyon Office, Edinburgh, to inquire about the standing of Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne, and also asking for any additional information he might possess concerning the merits of the Shandwick dispute. To this letter, under date of October 2, 1873, he received the following reply : " I have the most favourable accounts of the position of Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne as a house and as to the character of the individual members of the firm. I called yesterday afternoon at their office, which is within hve minutes walk of mine. Mr. Stuart was out, but I saw Mr. Cheyne. The one docu- ment of which they are very desirous of having inspection is a pedigree sent by one of the Shandwick Rosses to one of your family in 1764. It appears tbat the seniority of two or three brothers is a point of vital importance in the Shandwick case, and this contemporary holograph by a member of the family would be of great value. L T nder these circumstances, I think you might freely allow the pedigree if in existence to be produced or at least an authenticated copy of it. Of course the claimant would pay ah expenses that might be incurred." Shandwick Succession. 103 Edward Armstrong, Esore., to General Meredith Read. Mr. Armstrong again wrote to General Meredith Read on the 18th October, 1873, as follows (from Philadelphia) : " I am extremely obliged for your kind promise to write to Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne. I have not however been able to recover the missing genea- logical tree of the Ross family sent out to this country to Mr. Ross, upon the possession of which these gentlemen place so much stress. I doubt if it is now in existence. They sent me a copy of the original in which the descent from the Earls of Ross was established. * * * I often thought of you my dear friend through all that dreadful siege, and gloried in your pluck and generosity." Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne to General Meredith Read. Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne, writing from 56 Frederick street, Edinburgh, to General Meredith Read, on the 29th October, 1873, say : " We are obliged by your favour of the 21st and for your readiness to aid us in our search for the document wanted. We hope the result may be successful. We are loath to infringe on your valuable time, but the discovery of this document would go a long way to settle, if not to absolutely terminate, the disputed point of a valuable succession, the estate being worth between two and three thousand pounds a year. " We are sorry that we are not in possession of any letters written by Mr. John Ross of Philadelphia, though we have seen one in which he gives an account of himself and his family. We will by and bye get access to this and any others, if there be others in existence, and when we do so we will have pleasure in furnishing you with copies or if possible in procuring originals for you. Meantime, this will serve to explain why we are unable at present to comply with your request." Edward Armstrong, Esqre., to General Meredith Read. Mr. Armstrong again writes from Philadelphia to General Meredith Read, on November 5th, 1873, as follows : " I was indeed much gratified yesterday in receiving a letter from Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne of Edinburgh, apprising me that they had opened a correspondence with you in regard to the recovery of the Ross genealogical tree, and that you intended to fall upon some plan by which the examination of your papers in New York might be made. I replied that I would offer my services to you to visit New York and to assist in the matter, if I could afford any help. " I am truly obliged to your father for the suggestion that I should write to you, and I perceive by the contents of the letter of Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne that they are still more inclined to regard me as a person who has it in his power to render valuable service. " I am delighted with the reflection that one whose friendship I so much value (I mean yourself) has done such good service to his country and is in a position to render yet perhaps greater services to bring additional credit upon the American name." R. R. Stodart, Esore., to General Meredith Read. On the 2nd February, 1874, Mr. Stodart writes to General Meredith Read, from Edinburgh, as follows : " Mr. Hugh Ross's 1 letter in 1764 to Mr. John Ross of Philadelphia, is of real value as showing at that date what was believed to be the descent of Balblair." lMr, Hugh Ross's father-in-law was Alexander Ross, of Daan House, near Balblair, Ross-shire. He was a writer to the Signet in Edinburgh, admitted 171S, and knew thoroughly the origin of the Rosses of Balblair. 104 Rossiana. Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne to General Meredith Read. Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne write to General Meredith Read on the 23rd May, 1874, as follows: " We have accounts of the death of Mr. Armstrong of Philadelphia on the 25th February, before, of course, your letter of instructions in regard to making the search for the copy tree of the house of Shandwick could have reached him. It is unfortunate, as doubtless he could more easily have under- taken the search than anyone else from his previous knowledge of what was wanted. Is there anyone else to whom you could entrust the matter ? It is of course important that we should ascertain as soon as possible whether the copy is in existence or not." General' Meredith Read to Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne. On the 22nd July, 1874, General Meredith Read writes to Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne as follows : " I shall leave town on Wednesday of next week with my family for the purpose of spending two months in the United States. If you will, before that date, forward to me here another copy of the Ross pedigree, — for I cannot find for the moment the one you sent me, — I will endeavor to trace the original while I am in America. " You promised to procure for me the letters of the Hon. John Ross, my great grand uncle, — if you succeeded in obtaining the originals. If you cannot send the originals, send the copies as they will be of the greatest service in helping me to trace the missing document." Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne to General Meredith Read. " 56 Frederick Street, Edinburgh, " 25th July, 1S74. " Dear Sir. — We are favoured with yours of 22nd and are much obliged by your offer to make search for the missing pedigree of Ross of Shandwick on your visit to the United States. We send you, as requested, copy of the document and of the letter from Mr Hugh Ross of London to Mr John Ross of Philadelphia sending it. We are sorry we cannot send you either originals or copies of any letters of Mr John Ross. The one we formerly mentioned as extant is in possession at present of a party here who is from home. We sent today to see if his clerk could find it, but he thinks the party must have it away with him. He has gone to the country to examine witnesses in this matter and has taken a number of documents and probably the one referred to among them. We shall send you a copy as soon as we can get it. What will be your address in the States? " We hope your kind search may be successful in bringing the document to light, and will be glad to hear the result at your earliest convenience. " We are, Dear Sir, " Yours faithfully, " Stuart and Cheyne. " General J. Meredith Read " 37 Avenue d'Antin, Champs Elysees, Paris." Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne to General Meredith Read. Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne write to General Meredith Read from Edin- burgh on the 27th August, 1874, as follows : " We have now procured and enclose a copy of the letter from the Hon. John Ross of Philadelphia, of one to him from his father, and of one from the relative of the latter, Mr Hugh Ross of London, to Mr David Ross of Edinburgh. We are sorry that we h^ve been unable to send you this sooner, Shandwick Succession. 105 but the party in whose custody the old copy was from which we have transcribed the enclosed, only returned to town recently and until his return we could not get access to it. The originals of the letter are not extant, at least they have no-where come to light, and what we have transcribed from is a copy of the three letters in a continuous paper, but evidently very old. As we formerly explained to you, we cannot send you this old copy at present, as it is required as evidence in the case we have in hand, in order to aid in authenticating the copy tree you were kindly search- ing for, if this be found. On the case being completed, however, you may rely on our using every endeavor to get the custodian of it to give it up, and send it on to you, and have little doubt we will get it for that purpose. We have never found any letters from or relating to the Hon. John Ross ; but if we do so, and if there are any among the documents we are collecting we are sure to fall in with them, we shall have much pleasure in endeavoring to secure them for you. We shall be glad to hear from you as to the result of your search when completed." Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne to General Meredith Read. Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne write to General Meredith Read on the 18th October, 1874, as follows : " We are obliged by your favour of the 14th ult., which the absence of the party taking charge of the matter has prevented our earlier replying to We have since had a call from your friend Mr Stodart (if we recollect the name aright) who has explained to us what you state about your great uncle's papers being stored in New York. " Your great uncle's family were in no way concerned with the property, although related to the family to whom it belonged, and what we are at present in search of is a document which we know, from evidence in our possession was sent to him (the Hon. John Ross) by one of the Rosses of Shandwick, the name of the property in question. The accompanying memorandum will explain matters to you, and we need not therefore repeat ourselves here, but refer you to that memorandum. When we add that the point on which the question of succession turns is the names of the third and fifth sons of Andrew Ross, which you will find are blank in the copy of the tree quoted in the memorandum, and that the strong probability is that in the copy of that tree sent to Mr John Ross by Hugh the second son of the same Andrew, the names of the sons would all be inserted, you will see the very great importance of discovering if possible that copy. We think therefore that if there be no one in New York to whom you can confide the search among the Hon. John Ross's papers, it will be well worth the cost of having the boxes containing them sent over either to yourself in Paris, or here, where you could perhaps come and superintend the search. We will of course bear the expense of their transmission, and, if necessary, of your journey here, or, if you could get it done, of a search among the papers in New York. " We are assuming that Mr. John Ross your great uncle is the person to whom the document in question was sent. Some further correspondence between the latter and Mr. Hugh Ross which we have found reveal the fact that he was Counsellor at Law, and son of Mr. George Ross, clergyman at New Castle in America. " You asked if the Cockburn Rosses were descendants of Admiral Ross by Miss Cockburn. We have to answer, No ; but that a Miss Ross, one of the Shandwick family, married a Mr Cockburn, who, on his wife's succeeding to the estate, had to take the name of Ross — Cockburn Ross thus becoming the name of their descendants. Owing to the entire failure of the Cockburn Ross family, the estate now reverts to the descendants of one or other of the sons of Andrew Ross before referred to. As the trial of the case may be pushed on by some of the parties interested, we will esteem it a great favour if you can put matters in train for access being had to Mr John Ross's papers as soon as possible." io6 Rossiana. A SECOND ROSS FAMILY TREE. General Meredith Read during his visit to the United States in 1874 searched in vain among the family papers for the Ross genealogical tree, which had been sent over to the Hon. John Ross in 1764, by Mr. Hugh Ross of London. After a thorough search, in the course of which he applied for information to Miss M. E. Ross of Philadelphia, in whose hands he found the John Ross family Bible, and the silver alluded to in his letter to Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne. of the 14th December, 1874 (see, post). General Meredith Read had recourse to the family of Plumstead, which was related to his own family through the McCall family of Philadelphia. The Plum- steads were originally established in the county of Norfolk and received a grant of arms in the 15th year of Elizabeth. Clement Plumstead was Mayor of the city of Philadelphia in 1723: His grandson, William Plumstead, also a wealthy man was three times Mayor of Philadelphia, in 1750, 1754 and 1755. He married his second wife, at Christ Church, September 27th, 1753, viz. : Mary, daughter of George McCall, Esqre., of Philadelphia, by his wife Anne, daughter of Jasper Yeates. an early councillor. His son George, by his second wife, born May 3rd, 1765, died 5th April, 1805, married 3rd Decem- ber, 1795, Anna Helena Amelia Ross, daughter of John Ross of Philadelphia, merchant, a native of Tain, Ross-shire, by his wife Clementina, daughter of Captain Charles Cruickshank, of the Royal Army. General Meredith Read accordingly addressed his inquiries to Miss Clementina Ross Plumstead, descendant, who very kindly made a search among her family papers and gave to him the following statement : " Our grandfather, John Ross, merchant of Philadelphia, was born in Tain in the county of Ross. Scotland. His father Murdoch Ross, merchant in Tain, married Christian Simson in Tain, on the 29th December. 1724, and our grandfather was one of ten children, several of whom died in infancy. But little has come to us of his life before his arrival in this country. He was a merchant in Perth, Scotland, Tor a year or two, from whence he came to Philadelphia, and soon after married Clementina Cruickshank, daughter of Captain Charles Cruickshank, of the British Army, at Clinton Hall, after- wards called by him The Grange Farm. A paper among the family effects is entitled ' A Geneologie of Earles of Ross. The Antient Earles of Ross- shire in North Britain. Procured from Edinburgh, Anno 1764, by John Ross, late of Ross-shire, in Scotland, and a native of that place which county he left in 1763 : now a merchant and resident in the city of Philadelphia.' " The existence of this second Ross family tree was a curious coincidence. The Craufurd tree for which General Read was searching was sent, as stated, by Hugh Ross in London to Hon. John Ross, counselor-at-law in Philadelphia, in 1764. The second tree, in possession of the Plumstead fam- ily, was also a Craufurd tree, but had been sent by some one in Edinburgh to John Ross, merchant in Philadelphia, the same year (1764), who was in no wise related to Hon. John Ross. It apparently is a copy of the greater portion of the first tree, but is not brought down to as late a period as is the case with the former. Shandwick Succession. 107 Miss Plumstead to General Meredith Read. Philadelphia, November 9, 1874. •General Meredith Read, Minister of the United States to Greece, Fifth Avenue Hotel, New York: My Dear Sir.— Agreeably to your request I send you the copy of our family paper together with the extract from the family Bible, in looking over the old letters, there was one of my grandfather's General Ross's own writing which corresponds with that on the outside of the record; you will remember asking me if anyone could prove his handwriting. Our letters are merely family affairs of no interest except to relations, they are dated from Tain, Elgin, and Aberdeen but few were written in the present century. I cannot refrain from indulging a hope that something to our advantage may arise in the investigation. What gives me the hope is what "was communicated to us by one of our Scotch relations Mr. Alexander Gordon that one of the Ross family was a rich bachelor and that his nearest heirs were in America. I shall be glad to know that these papers have been safely received and are satisfactory. With kind regards believe me respectfully. [Signed] Clementina Ross Plumstead. Miss Plumstead to General Meredith Read. The documents were accompanied by the following letter addressed to General Meredith Read by Miss Plumstead : " Philadelphia, 1122 Girard Street, " November 14th, 1874. "My Dear Sir. — Your telegram was received. Not quite understanding, I asked for further information. Your letter, however, explains. " The memorandum on the back [of the genealogy] was copied in the paper sent, in which John Ross merchant was named; also the date 1764 on the back, but not under the name of George Crawford. Fearful of accident. I send duplicate with handwriting sworn to : also duplicate of the marriages of our great grandfather and grandfather, together with my mother's mar- riages, all of which I have sworn to. I regret that my ignorance of business has given you trouble, particularly as your time must be fully taken up on the eve of your departure from this country. " I hope I have given you what is necessary in the enclosed papers. Accept my thanks and warmest wishes for a safe voyage and believe me your's truly " Clementina Ross Plumstead." " My sister desires her kind regards as well as myself, and Mr. H. P. Muir- Jicad has kindly promised to deliver this package this evening." Enclosed in this letter was the following family record copied by Miss Plumstead from the Ross family Bible : Murdoch Ross, merchant in Tain, and Christian Simson were married December 29th, 1724, and had issue — Christian, born 5th June. 1726. Barbra, born 3d May, 1727. * John, born 29th January, 1729; died 8th April, 1800. Jean, born 22d January, 1731. Christian, born 8th March, 1733. Arthur, born 15th September, 1735. Peggy, born 26th June, 1736. Christian, born 12th November, 1737. David, born 17th December, 1738. *At Clifton Hall, on the 8th December, 176S, John Ross [merchant in Philadelphia] was married to Clementina Cruickshank, daughter of Captain Charles Cruickshank — 108 Rossi a ii a. Ann, born 21st October, 1742. Clementina was born November 26, 1769; died January 12, 1848. Margaret was born April 25, 1771. Charles was born October 5, 1772; died, 1818. Jean was born November 23, 1773 ; died, 1858. Mary was born August 3, 1775 ; died, 1837. Anna Helena Amelia was born November 26, 1776; died, 1848. Mr. Ross died, 1800. Mrs. Ross died, 1828. The Plumstead Pedigree. The Ross pedigree in possession of the Plumstead family, a certified copy of which was sent to General Read by Miss Plumstead, was as follows, and is printed here for comparison with the preceding one: A Geneologie of the Antient Earles of Rosse and of the male representative of that Illustrious family and its Branch 1st Shandwick. It is agreed on by all antiquaries that the Earldom of Rosse is one of the most antient Erections we have ; our historians mention : 1st — Macinsagart Comes Rossensis in the Reigne of King William, that by his valour & conduct he defeat the reblius Murrays & obliged them to submit to the King's mercy ; he was succeeded by 2d — Farchard, Earl of Rosse, his son, whom our historians mention with great honour; in the reign of King Alexander the 2nd he founded the Abbacy of Fearn in the County & Earldom of Ross and the Channers of Tain; he dyed at Tain, February the first, 1257; he was succeeded by his son William. 3d — ■ Willielmus Comes Rossensis, quohom very honourable mention in the Federa Anglise; in the year 1258 he married Jean, daughter of William, Earl of Ruchan, & had by her 4th — William, the 2nd of that name, who succeeded his father in 1294 and is mentioned in the Foedera and other authenticall vouchers in the competition for the Crown Betwixt the Bruce and the Baliol ; he married Matilda, sister to King Robert the Bruce, as by several original charters the author of this- memorial has seen and perused, granted by the said King & Matilda his sister and to their heirs ; by this great lady he had a son 5th — Hugh, who was his successor, who adhered with great fidelity to King Robert 2nd, and contributed not a little to fix him on the throne ; he adhered with no less fidelity to his son. King David the 2nd, in whose service and that of his country he lost his life at the battle of Halidon Hill, 1332. 6th — He left behind him 2 sons, William, his successor, and Hugh Ross of Rarichies, in whom the male line of this Illustrious family, after the extinction of the dignity, came to be preserved ; that Earl had also two daughters, Euphemia, maryed first to Randolph, Earl of Morey & after to Robert the third of that name King of Scotland and first of the Stewarts, and Janet, the second daughter, was maryed to Sir Alexr. Murray of Abercairney, as appears from the original contract by way of Indenture, which the author has seen. 7th — Hugh, Earl of Rosse, succeeded 8th — William, his son, who, being a weak, easy man, was, by the craft & cunning of Sir Walter Leslie, his son-in-law, circumveened out of his estate, that by the Laws and Constitution of Scotland, should have gone, as all masculine feus had ever gone, to his brother, Hugh, but Sir Walter Leslie, being in a high degree of favour, and having got the Earldom resigned in favour of his wife, there was no remedy, tho' the Earl himself suplicated the King often to have Sir Walter's right again tryed, but I see no regard was had to his remonstrance ; the original remonstrance I have. Upon Earl William's death the honour did not descend to Euphemia, Rosses eldest daughter tho' she had the estate, nor did her Uncle Hugh assume it because he had not the estate to support the honour of the family. Shandwick Succession. 109 nor was Sir Walter Earl of Ross, but after his decease, his wife having the estate, she resigned in favor of Alexander Leslie, her son, who upon that was invested and de novo created Earl of Ross by Robert the 3d, per cincturam Glady commitatis, according to the antient rite and forme of creation ; but he, dying without issue male, the estate came to Euphemia Leslie, who made it over to her uncle, Sir John Stewart of Coule, afterward the famous Earl of Buchan. The antient Earles of Ross having thus lost their estate, the right of the representation in the male line is in the heir male of the antient and honour- able family of Balnagown, as hath been said, the first of whom was Hugh Ross, brother-in-law to the King, 2nd son to Hugh, Earl of Ross & Brother and heir male to William, Earle of Ross ; said Hugh mary'd the heiress of Balnagown and was succeeded by 2nd — William the second Baron of Balnagown, who maryed the Lord Livingstone's daughter, and had by her 3d — William of that family, who maryed Paul Mactyre's daughter, by whom he got the lands & vast tracts of Strathcarron, Strathsikell & Tostray ; she bore him Hugh Ross, the 4th of Balnagown, who maryed the Earl of Sutherland's daughter, & had by her his son and heir, Hugh, & William Ross of Little Allan, of whom the Rosses of Shandwick, to which branch we shall confine our deduction of this antient honourable family; he maryed a niece of the great Macdonald, King of the Isles ; by this lady he had Alexr. & Donald Ross, the 1st of Shandwick, eldest cadet of the male line now extant of the Rosses, maryed six times & by his first wife, dau'r. to Tulloch of Bonytown, he had his son and heir, David Ross of Shandwick, who maryed Jean Clunes, daughter to Milderg, whose son, succeeding, was called Robert the Waster, whose son, Mr. William Ross of Shandwick, maryed Eliza Campbell, daughter to William Campbell of Delnies, who had issue, Andrew, who maryed Isabel Ross, daughter to William Ross of Inver- charron. by whom he had Andrew, who maryed Christian Ross, daughter of Ross of Ardgay, by whom he had ten sons and seven daughters. William, the eldest, dying a bachelor, he is represented by his second brother, Hugh Ross, now of Shandwick, merchant in London, who maryed Eliza Ross, only daughter to Alexr. Ross of Little Daan, late solicitor-at-law at London, by whom he had three sons and two daughters — Hugh, Alexander and Andrew William. The armorial bearings of this family is the same with the old Earles of Rosse, viz. : Argent three lyons rampant gules ; motto, nobilis est ira leonis. This acct. as branched from the antient Earles of Ross was drawn from antient and modern charters and other authentic documents by me. (Signed) George Crawfurd, Historiographer of Scotland. General Meredith Read to Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne. Upon receipt of a copy of the Plumstead pedigree, General Read, under date of December 14, 1874, wrote as follows to Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne, giving an account of his search and the discovery of the second family tree : " During my recent visit to America, a copy of the Ross pedigree, together with the copies of the letters of Hugh Ross Esqre to the Hon. John Ross of Philadelphia, 1764, were stolen. Will you do me the favour to send me duplicates as speedily as possible, as I leave Paris for Athens in a few days. The autograph of the Rev. George Ross, a copy of which you found among the old Ross papers, and which you sent to me, and of which I desired another copy was in the possession of my family and was printed in the life of my great grandfather. Chief Justice George Read, a Signer of the Declaration of Independence and a Framer and Signer of the Constitution no Rossiana. of the United States. I was unable to find in America the Pedigree sent by Hugh Ross. Esqre., to his relative the Hon. John Ross, but I discovered various pieces of family silver of ancient date and in the family Bible of the Hon. John Ross was the book plate of his son in law. Captain Henry Gurney, of the British Army, paly of six, or and azure : crest, a griffin's head erased or : with the arms of Ross on an escutcheon of pretence, and one of the Ross mottoes, "Span successus alit." This Bible was published by John Basket at Oxford in 1727. and the following entries are contained in it : Be it remembered that John Ross, Esquire, of Philadelphia, Counsellor at Law, son of the Rev. George Ross, Rector of the Church at New Castle on Delaware, was solemnly married to Mrs Elizabeth Morgan of Philadel- phia, eldest daughter of Mr Benjamin Morgan of Philadelphia, gentleman, on the 18th day of December. A. D. 1735 by the Rev. Mr Archibald Cum- mings. Commissary and Rector of Christ Church, in Philadelphia. The following inscriptions are in the handwriting of Mrs Ross : Elizabeth Ross was born 2nd May, 1740 and died 13th August, 1741. Margaret Ross was born 25th August, 1747, and died 20th Aug. 1766. Catharine Ross, born 21st July, 1748; died 27th August, 1782. She married the above named Henry Gurney, Esquire. I moreover found a copy or duplicate of the Ross Pedigree in the hand- writing and under the signature doubtless of George Crawford, Historiog- rapher of Scotland, which was procured from Scotland about the same time, 1763-4, by another person of the name of Ross. While this Pedigree in some respects differs from the copy of the one you forwarded to me, it is undoubtedly authentic. I recovered it after a long and arduous search after the other copy, which I carried out in different states. I desire to know what the case in hand is. You will greatly oblige me by giving me an exact idea of the question under discussion, and who are the parties to the same, and their claims. Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne to General Read. Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne, following the receipt of General Read's letter of the 14th, wrote him as follows, under date of December 17, 1874. in which they give full particulars of the case in relation to the Shandwick succession : " We are favoured by yours of the 14th, and are very glad to hear that you have been able to recover the copy you mention of Crauford's Tree. We think, however, it must be the one sent by Mr. Hugh Ross to the Hon. John Ross, unless you have come upon any evidence showing it to have come from some other quarter. If you have, we will be glad to know from whom it seems to have come, or to whom sent, as the sender may also have been one of the members or relatives of the Shandwick Family whom we may be able to trace. " We send you as requested herewith another copy of the Tree as we have it and of the biographical letter you wish. It is quite possible that the copy of the tree we have may differ in some particulars from that you have found even though that be the one sent by Mr. Hugh Ross, as we are not certain as to the correctness of our copy and we quite expect that the one sent to America will be the more authentic of the two. It was on this account that we were anxious to recover it. " The case is shortly this. The succession to the estate of Shandwick in this country, which has been lately opened by the death of the last proprietor, depends on the order of seniority of the sons of the last Andrew Ross of Shandwick. In the copy of the tree we have, the Christian names of some of these sons have been inserted in a different hand-writing from the rest of the document, and there is nothing to show by what authority this was done, or whether the order thus shown is correct. Owing to the date when Note. — The estate of Shandwick had been sold by the family and afterwards repurchased by one of the latter's descendants who had made a fortune in India, and on this account the American house was in no wise concerned in it — that is, as claimants. Shandwick Succession. 1 1 1 the copy was sent to America, we are lead to believe that if the names of the sons of Andrew are mentioned in it, they will be in correct order, and this, therefore, is the point of importance in reference to that copy. One of the claimants to the estate is a client of ours, Mr. Monro Ross, merchant in London, descended from Hugh Ross, a son of the said Andrew. Another claimant, is a Captain Reid, a descendant of Andrew Ross, another son of said Andrew ; and other claimants profess to be descended from George and Charles also sons of said Andrew. The estate has hitherto been in the possession of the descendants of David (another son of said Andrew) but these being now all extinct, it reverts to the descendants of one or other of David's brothers, the question to which of them, being as we have already said dependent upon the order of seniority of these brothers. We may men- tion that we have long been the family solicitors and that the absence of birth registers at that period in Scotland makes the evidence of the copies of the Tree of the more importance. " We will be greatly obliged if you will favour us at your earliest possible convenience with a copy of the Tree you have found, and which we presume you have with you, that we may see in what respects it differs from that we have. We should also like to have copies of any letters or writings that show by whom or to whom the Tree was sent and the date when it was sent or received. The originals will have to be recovered under order of our Supreme Court, so as to be preserved judicially, and thus rendered patent to all claimants, and until we can get such order, which we will apply for so soon as we know the contents of the Tree, we will be obliged by your taking great care that the originals meet with no mishap. We would suggest, with this view, and also as the order of Court will be more easily executed in Paris than in Athens, that on your leaving Paris you should deposit the documents in some secure place, say at the American or British Embassy or with Rothchilds Bank, where they may be got by the party who may be authorized by the Court to take possession of them. We expect our client Mr. William Monroe Ross to be in Paris in a day or two and are writing to him to his address there Hotel du Louvre to call upon you, if you have not left before his arrival. We will be pleased if he is fortunate enough to find you. " We were obliged for the papers you sent us and were well pleased to see the appreciation in which you are held by your countrymen, though their well deserved recognition of your services must have been damped by the soon after lamented death of your father." Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne to General Meredith Read, United States Ministers to Greece. Dated 30TH January, 1875. We wrote to you on the 17th ult. to the care of Messrs. Munroe and Com- pany, Paris, and hope our letters reached you safely. It will be a very great favour if you will kindly give us an early reply, as a trial of the succession case in which our client is interested is coming on and if the tree discovered by you is to be of any use in the matter we would require to have its contents at once. Hoping you will excuse our pressing the matter on your immediate atten- tion, we remain, dear Sir, Yours faithfully, Stuart and Cheyne. General Meredith Read to Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne. In reply General Meredith Read wrote the following letter to Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne : Legation of the United States, Athens, February 12th, 1875. Gentlemen. — Your brief note of the 30th January reached me yesterday. I had the pleasure of seeing Mr. Ross in Paris [Mr. William Monro Ross, of Stone Castle, Stone, West Dartford, Kent, England]. In fact he spent an ii2 Rossiana. evening with me by invitation. I showed him a sworn copy of the tree which I discovered in America. He was of opinion that it did not come down to a sufficiently late date to be of use. He thought, however, that it might perhaps be as well to send it to you and he said that he would ask you to send me a copy of another Pedigree which yon possess which giz'cs many more details than the one you sent me. 1 I have been waiting for this pedigree, but from your letter I infer that Mr. Ross has not yet informed you that he met me in Paris. This seems somewhat strange, as I treated Mr. Ross with great courtesy and gave him all the information in my power. I believe, however, that the oversight, on his part was not intentional and in accordance with your request I now enclose a sworn copy of the Tree which I discovered in the hands of Miss Clementina Ross Plumstead. You will observe on the last sheet that the above written document is endorsed as follows, viz. : " Genealogy of the Earles of Ross, the antient Earles of Ross-shire in North Britian, procured from Edin. Anno 1764 by John Ross late of Ross- shire and a native of that part of Scotland, which country he left in 1763 but now a resident and merchant of the city of Philadelphia." This John Ross merchant was as far as known in nowise related to my great uncle the Hon. John Ross, Attorney General, nor does it appear what connection if any he had with the family of the Earls of Ross, although he apparently adopted this tree. Was this the tree sent to the Hon. John Ross and did it fall into the hands of John Ross, merchant ? I think not, for the tree sent to the Hon. John Ross showed in detail at what time the house of Balamuchy branched from the main house and secondly the exact descent of the Hon. John Ross stated in the letter of Mr. Hugh Ross to the Hon. John Ross (dated London, 1st October, 1764), as follows: As I find your house of Balblair is from mine of Shandwick, I send the act yr of herewt, not inferior to any extant as your worthy Fathr truly tells you. * * * As you stand cadet of a decaved house of Balmuchv from me, &c &c On the 30th of April, 1763, the Hon. John Ross, then Attorney General (if the letter was written in the morning, for in the afternoon of that day his resignation was accepted and the Hon. George Read, who afterwards married his sister, was appointed in his place), residing in the city of Philadelphia, addressed a letter to Dr. Gordon requesting him to examine whether any relationship existed between him (the Hon. John Ross) and the family of Mr. Hugh Ross residing in London. Dr. Gordon took this letter with the copy of the account of his branch given by Rev. George Ross to his son the Hon. John Ross, and after his arrival in London delivered the two documents to Mr. Hugh Ross then residing in London, who sent copies of them in a letter dated London, March 22nd, 1764, to David Ross, Writer in Edinburgh. The result of a thorough investigation was the discovery that the Ross House of Balblair, of which the Hon. John Ross was the then male represen- tative, was descended from the Earls of Ross through the House of Bala- muchy. This, as I have before remarked, was set forth clearly in the letter of Mr. Hugh Ross to the Hon. John Ross, dated London, 1st October, 1764, and I have no doubt that the tree sent in that letter to the Hon. John Ross contained an account of his branch of the family. The tree, a copy of which I enclose, was probably obtained from Scotland by John Ross, merchant, for his own use. You will observe that the account of the latter's birth and parentage is enclosed. I had this copied from Miss Clementina Ross Plumstead's family Bible, as I thought it might perhaps give you a clue. I visited also in Philadelphia the great niece of the Hon. John Ross, Miss Mary Ross. She possesses many pieces of the Ross silver with the family arms; also the family Bible of the Hon. John Ross, but I could find no trace of the Pedigree. I only know that the facts set forth in the Pedigree have 'Messrs. Stuart & Cheyne, in a letter given subsequently, say that no further information is given in this pedigree. Shandwick Succession. 113 been traditional in our family from the time of the Rev. George Ross, the first settler in America who was born in Scotland in 1679, and died at New Castle in the Province of Delaware in 1754, and that we have quartered the Ross Arms with our own. I remember hearing in my early boyhood of our descent from Robert Bruce who contended with John Balliol. Messrs. Stuart and Cheyne to General Meredith Read. Edinburgh, 56 Frederick Street, 27th February, 1875. Dear Sir. — We were favored with yours of the 12th instant, and are much obliged for all the trouble you have taken in the matter of the Shandwick tree. We send you, as requested, copy of your letter to us and of the docu- ments that accompanied it and will be most happy to aid you in your anti- quarian research by affording you any information in our power. We have not, however, any other tree than Crawford's except some which have evi- dently been compiled from it and contain nothing but what is in it. It would, therefore, be useless to make copies of them for you, as they give no further information than his. The copy you have sent us is exactly the same as the copy of Crawford's tree we already have, save that yours does not contain the names of the younger brothers of Hugh Ross the last mentioned in the tree, and therefore for the purposes of our case it is unfortunately of no importance, the only point wanting to be cleared up in it being the order of seniority of these brothers. Although it is difficult to account for the confusion of the two John Rosses or the connection of the merchant with our Hugh Ross, we are almost certain that the tree discovered by you is the tree that was sent out by Hugh Ross, as its particulars agree so minutely with his letter to John Ross, and we think it is needless to pursue the research for another one any farther. We have not heard from our client Mr. Wm. Ross since he saw you and conclude that he cannot have as yet returned from the Continent. We remain Dear Sir, Yours faithfully, Stuart and Cheyne. General J. Meredith Read, Athens. P. S. — We do not think the tree sent by Mr. Hugh Ross had the Balblair or Balamuchy branch set fort.i in it, and rather read Mr. Hugh Ross' letter as merely meaning that as John Ross' house was from Shandwick he sends him the account of the Shandwick house, not that the tree traces the descent of Balblair, &c, from it. S. & C. SHANDWICK SUCCESSION SETTLED. The suit for the possession of the Shandwick estate was tried in July and August, 1876, and resulted in establishing the claim of Captain Andrew Geldart Reid, brother of Mr. Francis Nevile Reid, and a descendant in the female line of William Ross of Shandwick, who, in 1786, had repurchased the Shandwick estate and brought it back into the family after it had been alienated for over one hundred years, having passed from the family in 1675, when Andrew, sixth of Shandwick, died, and his widow, his second wife, gained possession of the estate by virtue of her marriage contract. Captain Reid, the successful suitor, died after the initiation of the pro- ceedings, and the estate descended to his eldest son. In a letter to General Meredith Read, dated February 25, 1892, Mr. Francis Nevile Reid says : " I descend from Mary Ross of Shandwick, from whom this property came into my family, and is now owned by my nephew, my elder brother's son." ii4 Rossiana. Appended is an interesting and complete description of the final settlement of the disputed Shandwick succession, as well as the names of the claimants and the nature of their pretensions, as printed in the columns of the Edin- burgh Scotsman of August 8, 1876 : The Shandwick succession case, which recently engaged the attention of the Lord President of the Court of Session and a jury for four days, deserves to be ranked as a cause celebre. It had many aspects of interest for the public at large, as well as for those who, from a professional point of view, could appreciate the enormous labour and the acumen that were displayed in tracing the branches of as tangled a " family tree " as ever puzzled a genealogist. The history of the case was in fact that of the Rosses of Shandwick. and it presented a curiously vivid and minute picture of the inner and domestic life, as it were, of a middle-class Scotch family of the last century. In more than one way, these Shandwick Rosses displayed strongly developed national characteristics. They were clannish, standing well by one another in time of need, and showing a decided preference in their matrimonial alliances for persons of their own name, and, it may be assumed, distantly or nearly of their own kin. They were quarrelsome, too; if they acted on the maxim that blood is thicker than water, they did not hesitate on occasion to spill that blood ; for the annals of the family within seventy years contain the record of two duels, each of which had a fatal termination for one of the combatants. Especially were they a pushing, enterprising race, ready to seek abroad the fortune that was not so easily within their reach at home. The number of cadets of the Shandwick blood who were sent out to that Eldorado of the last century, the East Indies, was remarkably large, while many of the family were at one time or another engaged in commercial undertakings at Gothenburg, in Sweden. The first connection of the Rosses with the Shandwick estate — which is returned in the Scottish Domesday Book as of 2,869 acres, and £2,721 gross rental, but was stated during the trial of the case to be at present worth between i' 3,000 and £ 4,000 a year — arose in the earlier part of the seven- teenth century, when Mr. William Ross, minister at Kincardine, acquired the " town and lands of Shandwick." He died in 1663, and was succeeded by his second son Andrew — the eldest, David, having been murdered in the wood of Invereshie. during the troublous times of the Civil War. This Andrew, who was twice married, died in embarrassed circumstances in 1675, and his second wife, who was a widow when he married her, got possession of the Shandwick estate in settlement of the provision made for her by their contract of marriage, leaving the eldest son of the late laird, likewise named Andrew, with nothing but the empty title ; and for more than a hun- dred years this was all the connection the Ross family had with the prop- erty. But if Andrew Ross the second did not possess broad acres, he was at least rich in olive-branches; it has been ascertained that he had thirteen children, and if a certain pedigree on which the case of one of the claimants partly rested could be trusted, he had seventeen — ten sons and seven daughters — so that he well deserved the title, recognised by all the claimants, of " common ancestor." Of his sons, the eldest, William, was a writer in Edinburgh, acquired considerable property as writers are wont to do, but was drowned in 1739 in a voyage between Peterhead and Orkney. He died unmarried. The second son, Hugh, cuts an important figure in the family history. He began life as a merchant in Tain, but in 1721 he killed Hugh Ross, laird of Achnacloich, in a duel, and fled to Gothenburg. There, and afterwards in London, he successfully continued mercantile pursuits, bought estates in Scotland, and for many years exercised a very generous and paternal care over numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins who stood in need of his assistance. He died in 1775 leaving two sons, both of whom died without lawful issue. The descendant of a natural son of one of them put in a claim as " nearest heir of conquest " to the Shandwick succession, but his claim was dismissed in 1873. Shandwick Su ccess ion. 115 The third son of the common ancestor was named Andrew like his father. He began life as a merchant in Tain, where he rose to the dignity of Bailie and Dean of Guild at a comparatively early age. His property did not, how- ever, continue, and he gladly accepted in 1737 a commission from his well- to-do brother Hugh to go out to the East Indies on some commercial enter- prise. There, in 1739, the same year in which his elder brother William was drowned, he met his death in the same manner. He left behind him three sons and three daughters ; the sons all died without leaving issue. The eldest daughter jjiarried Bailie John Reid of Tain, and had a family of three sons and four daughters — the grandson of Andrew, the eldest of these Reids, was one of the claimants to the Shandwick estate. The third of Andrew Ross's daughters, Katherine, married David Ross, Commissary-clerk of Tain ; and her great-grandson, Mr. John Ross Duncan, was another of the claimants to the estate. The claim of these two representatives of Andrew Ross was a joint one ; their titles to succeed, as will be shown, must of necessity stand or fall together. The fourth son of the common ancestor, Alexander, was, like so many of his relatives, engaged in commercial pursuits — a busy, active man, and a great traveler, who seems to have had no time to think about the domesticities. At all events, he died unmarried in 1775, at the respectable age of three score and ten. David Ross, the fifth son of the common ancestor, was a man of a very opposite character. He spent his life in farming, with indifferent success, one of the properties of his brother Hugh, and died in 1768, leaving a son named William and a daughter named Christian. It was this son William of his who, after more than a hundred years of alienation, brought back into the family the estate of Shandwick. He was taken under the protection of his uncle Hugh, educated chiefly at his expense, and sent out in 1770, in his eighteenth year, as a writer to Madras. There he did so well that in 1786 he was able to return to his native country with a considerable fortune, and he lost no time in opening negotiations with the then proprietor of Shandwick, Lord Ankerville, for its purchase. The transaction was com- pleted in the same year, the amount of the purchase money being £17,600. Finding that there was not on the estate any house suitable for him to live in, the new laird resolved to build one, and while this work was in progress, he took a seven years 1 lease of the mansion of Tarlogie. There he was often visited by two half-cousins, Helen and Charlotte Reid, daughters of his cousin Mary Ross, who. as noted above, had married Bailie John Reid of Tain. A charge brought against him of immoral conduct towards these young ladies led to a desperate quarrel between Andrew Reid their elder brother and William Ross. Andrew challenged the laird to a duel, but the latter refused to accept the challenge, on the chivalrous ground that his opponent was married and the father of a young family, while he was a bachelor and free. Thereupon the indomitable Andrew actually brought home from India his younger brother David, an officer in the Bengal army, to avenge the wrong done to his sisters. A duel was fought at Blackheath in May, 1790, and this unhappy family quarrel was quenched in the blood of poor William Ross, who had enjoyed the rehabilitated territorial honours of the Shandwick family for scarcely four years. He had executed a deed of entail, by which the estate devolved on the descendants of his sister Christian, whom failing, to his heirs whatsoever. The direct line of entail ended in 1872, when its last representative died. She had been for some years in a lunatic asylum, and for a long time evidence had been in process of collection to determine the important question of the heirship to the Shandwick property. The two claimants already specified — Captain Andrew Geldart Reid, grandson of Andrew Reid who brought about the duel fatal to William Ross, the entailer, and Mr. Andrew Ross Duncan — were indisputably the repre- sentatives (entitled to succession) of all the sons of the common ancestor older than David, the father of the entailer. They both claimed as descend- ants of daughters of Andrew Ross, the third son, William, the eldest, having died unmarried, and all the lawful issue of Hugh, the second, being extinct. Captain Andrew Geldart Reid died after the initiation of the proceedings, n6 Rossi a n a. but his claim was continued by his trustees. The title of these two claimants to succeed as " portioners " could not be questioned, except by descendants of younger brothers of David Ross, the entailer's father, to whom, by the law of succession, the estate would fall, in preference to descendants of the elder brother. There were in fact two sets of claims of this character, either of which, if established, would have been at once fatal to the pretensions of Captain Reid and Mr. Duncan. The first was by Mrs. Agnes Stewart Ross or Mackintosh, who claimed as fifth in descent from a Charles Ross, alleged by her counsel to be the seventh son of Andrew Ross, the " common ancestor," and therefore considerably younger than David, the fifth son. It was part of Mrs. Mackintosh's case that, following David, the common ancestor had no fewer than five other sons — Walter, Charles, Robert, Farquhar, and George. But evidence was only forthcoming as to the existence of the last-named of these, and the others, according to the con- tention of Captain Reid's and Mr. Duncan's counsel, either died in infancy or never lived at all. There could be no question that Mrs. Mackintosh was descended from a certain Charles Ross, and that he had a brother Walter. But the question was, were these two sons of Andrew Ross of Shandwick, the common ancestor? Against this hypothesis there was very strong, although indirect, evidence. In the first place there is not in the correspond- ence of the Shandwick family — a great mass of letters extending over many years — the least mention of Charles Ross. His son Walter is mentioned in the correspondence as a "cousin;" but it was proved that this cousinship. such as it was, arose from the circumstance that Charles Ross and David Ross, the entailer's father, had married sisters. A curious piece of evidence against Mrs. Mackintosh's claim was that two old wills by Walter, Charles Ross's brother, were found in the Probate Office, in which legacies were left to his *' unfortunate brother William." and his sisters, Katherine and Florence. Now in the Shandwick family there were indeed a William and a Katherine ; but the William was not unfortunate except in his death, which happened, as we have seen, in 1739, or thirty years before Walter's will was made. Moreover, Katherine Ross of Shandwick died two years before the execution of the will, and in the Shandwick family there never was a Florence at all. Mrs. Mackintosh's claim was thus disposed of: but there remained another set of claims of another class. Two persons alleging descent from George Ross, the youngest son of the common ancestor, put in claims as portioners. and could their pedigree have been established, their title to succeed would have been preferable to that of Captain Reid and Air. Duncan. This George Ross was not at all an apocryphal descendant of old Andrew the common ancestor; he was a very real personage indeed, but a shiftless, incapable sort of man, described in a letter by one of his brothers as a " positive fool." He went at an early age to Gothenburg to be under the wing of his thriving brother Hugh, who had begun so ill by killing his name-sake of Achnacloich, but was afterwards for nearly half a century the good genius of his family. It is known that George Ross married at Gothenburg, and had a number of children, of whom only two sons and a daughter survived their childhood. Both the sons died unmarried in India, whither they had been sent by their uncle Hugh or his wife, " equipt very genteely." The daughter's fate has never been ascertained; but as efforts made by advertisement and otherwise to find out any lawful descendant of hers have been utterly unsuccessful, it may be presumed that she either died unmarried, or that her family, if she had any children, is extinct. But those who claimed the Shandwick estate as descendants of George Ross did not pretend to any connection with the offspring of his Gothenburg marriage. So long ago as 1856 — it being even then certain that on the decease of the then possessor of the estate the ques- tion of the succession would arise — an old man resident in Lochee preferred a claim on the ground that his grandfather, George Ross, a wright and miller at Meikle Tarrell, was the youngest son of the common ancestor. He died some time ago, leaving three daughters, two of whom died before the case came on for trial. One of them, Mrs. Ann Ross or Robertson, had left a son, Mr. Andrew Ross Robertson, to whom of course her claim SJiandzuick Succession. 117 descended, and the other claimant on this basis was Mrs. Jane Ross or Macpherson, the two claiming as portioners. Their story was that before George Ross went to Gothenburg he married one Merran Manson, a servant girl, by whom he had a son named Andrew, a farmer in Tullich, the father of the claimant of 1856, and of course grandfather of Mrs. Macpherson and great-grandfather of Andrew Ross Robertson. But of this alleged marriage of George Ross not a tithe of evidence could be produced. The deposition of the claimant of 1856 set forth that his father Andrew died in 1789 at the age of sixty. In that case he must have been born in 1729, when George Ross of Shandwick, his alleged father, was but twelve years of age. Further, there was found in certain Sutherlandshire Presbytery records a statement that George Ross, wright and miller, and Merran Manson were brought up for ecclesiastical discipline in 1743, when George Ross of Shandwick was settled as a merchant in Gothenburg. Thus the case of those who were known as the Lochee claimants came to utter grief, and the only conclusion at which the jury could possibly arrive was that Captain Andrew Reid's trustees and Mr. Ross Duncan were the lawful heirs to the Shandwick prop- erty; which, oddly enough, reverts in part to the descendants of the very man who was chiefly instrumental in bringing about the duel that cut short the career of William Ross, who brought back the estate into the family. Referring to this article, the firm of Stuart & Cheyne wrote as follows to the Scotsman : In your article of to-day on the Shandwick succession case, it is stated that the two sons of Hugh Ross, the second son of the " common ancestor," Andrew Ross, died without lawful issue ; and the dismissal of the claim of a descendant of one of these sons is referred to in such a way as to lead your readers to the inference that it was dismissed because of his illegitimacy. 1 As agents for Hugh Ross' descendants, we must take leave to correct both the statement and the inference. The eldest son of Hugh Ross had several legitimate children, of whom two still survive. Another was the lady, whose careful preservation of a large number of family letters and papers has been of signal service to the success- ful claimants, in enabling them to meet and overcome the contentions of their opposing competitors. The claim of the " eldest " representative of Hugh Ross, in the person of his great-grandson in the direct male line, was dismissed, not on any ground of illegitimacy, but purely and simply because the Court decided as matter of law that the estate must go, not to the entailer's " heir of conquest," but to his " heir of line." No descendant of Hugh could claim in the latter char- acter while descendants of any younger brother survived. ROSS OF PITCALNIE. WHILE the guest of the Duke and Duchess of Sutherland in 1877, , General Meredith Read visited George Ross of Pitcalnie, the chief of the clan of Ross. Ross of Pitcalnie and his wife, nee Catharine Gilchrist, had recently met with a severe carriage accident which had the most serious results. Mr. Ross was shattered by the shock and his wife became blind in consequence of it. They received him with the greatest cordiality in the old house, which is beautifully situated in the midst of charming gardens surrounded by venerable trees. There was much ancient and quaint furniture in the drawing rooms and many family relics. Air. George Ross succeeded to the estates and to the chieftainship of his clan on the death of his brother on the 12th April. 1829. George Ross, of Pitcalnie, died without issue August 29, 1884, and was succeeded by his sister's grandson, George Ross Williamson, now of Pitcalnie, who assumed the name of Ross. The writer, in 1882, visited Ross of Pitcalnie, and was kindly received by the old chieftain and his estimable wife, at which time the writer also visited Balblair and Balnagown Castle (see "A Visit to Balblair and Balnagown Castle." page 150). A short time afterward General Meredith Read received the following letter from Mrs. Catherine Ross, wife of Ross of Pitcalnie. dated Rhives Park Hill. X. B., September 8, 1882: My Dear General Read: Many thanks for your kind card. It gave me great pleasure to make the acquaintance of your son Mr. Harmon Read, and I am gratified to hear that he gave such an interesting account of his interview with me. I was very much pleased with your son and thought how proud the father of such a youth must be. I am sorry to say I do not know how far he succeeded in seeing places of interest connected with our family of Balnagowan, but I hope after leaving me that he made his way into the old castle of his ancestors. The Chief sends greetings, and with kind regards I remain. Yours sincerely, Cathr. Ross. Following the death of Ross of Pitcalnie, in August, 1884, his widow wrote as follows to General Meredith Read: Rhives Park Hill, Ross-shire, October 27, 1884. My Dear Kinsman. — Accept my grateful thanks for the kind sympathy you have sent me as well as for the expression of regret for my dear husband. My sore bereavement has left me one consolation, the knowledge that he was much beloved and deeply regretted by a large circle of friends. The tokens of esteem from you I value highly, showing me that even the wide ocean that separates us does not prevent the heart beating warmly towards those who, though distantly, ; re still connected by the ties of blood. I can- not forget the short but pleasant interview I had with your most agreeable son, to whom I beg to be especially remembered. Please accept from me Ross of Pitcalnie. 119 a lithographed portrait of your kinsman, with a short printed notice of him and his lineage. They have been despatched by steamer in a small tin case to prevent injury. The likeness is thought admirable. With my cordial regards to you and your family Believe me always Very sincerely yours, Catherine Ross, By the pen of a friend. To General Meredith Read, 16 Everett Place, Newport, Rhode Island, United States of America. The lithograph has beneath it the following : " Your's truly George Ross." Mr. Ross was the Chief of the Clan of Ross. He is represented as a hand- some man of sixty-five, with a fine forehead and well-shaped head, a large, frank eye, aquiline features and a full flowing white beard and moustache and a full well-rounded figure. Rhives House is in Kilmuir Easter Parish, Ross-shire, and is seven fur- longs north of Delny Station. Its late owner, George Ross, Esqre., of Pit- calnie (1803-1884), owned 10,618 acres of the shire. It is some miles from Balnagowan. The ancient home of our ancestors is now occupied by Sir Charles Ross, Bart., who, of the family originally of Lockhart, took the name of Ross from the Lords Ross of Hawk-head, who were not in any way connected with our family which sprang directly from the ancient Earls of Ross. Yet Sir Charles Ross endeavored to figure as the head of a clan to which he does not belong. Balnagown Castle (also in Kilmuir Easter Parish), one and a half miles north of Nigg Bay, near Cromarty Firth, one and a half miles northwest of Kildary Station and five and a quarter miles southwest of Tain, stands amid romantic grounds, and commands a magnificent prospect. It was the seat of the Earls of Ross in feudal times. It is partly very ancient, partly an erection of 1836, and presents an imposing appearance in the old Scottish baronial style. It is the seat of Sir Charles F. A. Ross, Baronet, born 1872, succeeded 1883, ninth baronet since 1672, and the owner of 110,145 acres in the shire, valued at 12,633 pounds per annum. Creation, 28 February, 1672. According to Mr. Skene, the Scottish Historian, Ross of Pitcalnie was the representative of the ancient Earls. * * * In 1778, Monro Ross of Pit- calnie presented a petition to the King, claiming the Earldom of Ross as male descendant of Hugh Ross of Rarichies. This petition was sent to the House of Lords, but no decision appears to have followed upon it. DEATH OF THE LAIRD OF PITCALNIE. The Northern Chronicle, of September 10, 1884, contained the appended obituary notice of George Ross, Esq., Chief of the Clan of Ross : Mr. George Ross of Pitcalnie died at Rhrves, Ross-shire, on 29th ult.. and was buried among the birches he loved so well in the burying place of Annait-na-h-eaglais (Amat of the Church), on one of his own estates, lying 120 Rossi an a. at the head of Strathcarron, in Ross-shire. The funeral took place on Wednesday the 3rd inst., which, strange to say, though it had been fixed without reference to the circumstance, was the 81st anniversary of the deceased's birth. Mr. George Ross succeeded to the estates and to the Chieftainship of his clan on the death of his brother on 12th April, 1829, and from his succession to his death, has continuously resided in Ross-shire. Actively engaged in county business and all the ordinary pursuits of a country gentleman, adding further what few Highland lairds have cared to do during the same period — a close personal attendance to the management of his estates and superin- tendence of his tenants, and engaging extensively in farming operations, sheep and agricultural, both on his own lands and on the lands of others. As landowner, farmer and gentleman, he was thoroughly and intimately known, and found to be a man of the highest probity and most sterling worth, who discharged all the duties of his position and occupations in a manner which commanded the ardent affection and esteem of all with whom he came in contact. He was of course personally known throughout the length and breadth of the county, and he was intimately acquainted with every man, woman and child on his lands. His perfect knowledge of the circumstances, requirements and capabilities of his country and people gave real value to his personal superintendence of his estates, and during the more than half a century which intervened between his accession and his death, he was never known to provoke or suffer from discontent or contention with crofter or tacksman of his own lands, or with laird or factor on the lands he leased from others. The deceased was a very decided and consistent Conservative in politics, and no believer in the regeneration of the race by Act of Parliament or restoration of agricultural or other prosperity by extension of the Franchise. Pitcalnie married on 1st June, 1837, Miss Catherine Gilchrist, daughter of Dugald Gilchrist, Esquire of Opisdale, by whom he is survived. There was no issue of the marriage. He was 9th of Pitcalnie, and 24th in direct lineal descent from Syart Thane of Ross, who was created Earl of Ross by Malcolm III. at the Parliament of Forfar in 1062. The title passed from the 8th Earl, William, who had no son, to his daughter Euffen, Countess of Ross, who married Walter Leslie, second son of Sir Andrew Leslie of that Ilk. In right of his wife, Leslie took and enjoyed the title of Earl of Ross. The issue of this marriage were (1) Margaret, who married Donald of the Isles, and (2) Alexander, who succeeded to the title, and married a daughter of Robert, Duke of Albany, by whom he had one child, a daughter, Euffen. This Euffen, succeeding to the title of Countess of Ross, became a nun, and resigned the title to her maternal uncle John, Earl of Buchan. who became Earl of Buchan and Ross. This gave grave offence to Donald of the Isles, who had married Euffen's aunt Margaret, who now claimed the title as his in virtue of this marriage, which is the origin of the Lord of the Isles' claim to the Earldom of Ross. The contention caused by the Countess Euffen's resignation to Earl Buchan ultimately led to the battle of Harlaw. When the title of Earl of Ross passed to the daughter of the eighth Earl William, William's brother Hugh, first of Balnagowan, succeeded to the Chieftainship of the Clan Ross. From him it passed on from father to son to Alexander ninth of Balnagowan, who had two sons — the elder George, who succeeded him ; and the younger. Nicholas, who founded the family of Pitcalnie. The Chieftainship in the Balnagowans ended with the thirteenth Laird, David, last Ross of Balnagown, who died in 1711 without issue. The Chieftainship then passed to Alexander, fourth of Pitcalnie, from whom it passed in regular descent to Alexander, sixth, of Pitcalnie, the father of poor Callun Oag of the '45, who died without issue in exile. On the death of Alexander, sixth of Pitcalnie. he was succeeded by his younger son, Munro Ross, who, dis- appointed in love and in law, died childless at Amat. and opened the way to the Chieftainship for the descendants of his grandfather's brother, the last male of whom is the gentleman who has just died. He is succeeded in the estates by a grand-nephew, who will doubtless take the name of Ross. But the Chieftainship is extinct, unless indeed there still exist male descend- Ross of Pitcalnie. 121 ants of Malcolm of Kindeace — for we fear it is almost too late to search with success for a male descendant of Little Tarrel, Auchnaclaugh, Inver- charron, Priesthill, Shandwick, or Tayne. There is perhaps no county in Scotland where the lesser gentry native to the soil have been so numerous, and have so completely disappeared, as in this county of Ross. PRESENT ROSS OF PITCALNIE. The young laird of Pitcalnie. Mr. George R. Williamson Ross, who suc- ceeded to the estate of Pitcalnie on the death of George Ross, tenth laird, became of age on November 3, 1894, and entered upon his estate, at which time the tenantry arranged a notable celebration, which was thus described by the Ross-shire Journal of November 9. 1894: Coming of Age of a Young Laird — On Saturday Mr. George R. William- son Ross, Ankerville Cottage, Tain, the young laird of Pitcalnie and Amat, came of age. In honor of the event huge bonfires burned all night at Nigg, and at Amat on Monday the tenants held rejoicings on a large extent. Dancing was kept up heartily at both places, and the tenants and their friends did all in their power to honor the occasion. At Ankerville Cottage, Tain, the residence of the young laird, similar rejoicings were held. At a private party held in his house the young laird received many handshakes from friends who wished him joy and happiness. Mr. Ross's uncle, says a corre- spondent, the late Mr. George Ross, tenth of Pitcalnie, was twenty-third chief of the Clan Ross, and the oldest, if not the only, known male repre- sentative of the ancient Earls of Ross. His successor, Mr. George R. Williamson Ross, is a sister's grandson who has assumed the additional surname of Ross. He is ninth in descent from Nicolas, first of Pitcalnie, a younger son of Alexander Ross, ninth of Balnagown, who died in 1592, whose male descendants by his eldest son, George tenth, became extinct on the death, without issue, of David, thirteenth of Balnagown, in 171 1, when the chieftainship devolved on Malcolm, fourth of Pitcalnie. Alexander of Balnagown, already referred to, was ninth in descent from Hugh, fifth Earl of Ross, who fell at Halidon Hill in 1333, and who, in 1308, had married Lady Maud, sister of King Robert Bruce, by whom he had William, the sixth and last of the old Earl of Ross family, while their third son was Hugh, who became first of Balnagown, and who died in 1371. Between Malcolm, the first Earl of Ross (A. D. 1153-65) and the subject of this notice, there are twenty-three generations, only once broken in the female line. LIST OF DOCUMENTS IN POSSESSION OF GEORGE ROSS OF PITCALNIE IN 1876. George Ross, tenth of Pitcalnie, possessed a number of ancient charters, papers and documents, which, in 1876, were reported on by William Fraser (App., p. 715). The charters contain grants by Cardinal Beaton, the Bishop of Ross, and others, of lands in Ross-shire and Inverness to the Lairds of Balnagown and Pitcalnie. A bond entered into by certain persons named Rollok, whereby they received certain sums of money from George Ross of Balnagown to satisfy them for the " slaughter of Patrick Rollok, our brother germane," by Nicolas Ross of Pitcalnie, illustrates the convenient method used in 1595, of settling a serious case to the satisfaction of all concerned. There is also printed in full an agreement among a number of persons of the name of Ross, which throws some light on the relationship between the clansmen and their chief. Among the letters is one from John Earl of Sutherland in 1638. respecting the innovations in the Service Book. 122 Rossiana. and two letters from Duncan Forbes of Culloden, expressing his anxiety to prevent the son of Ross of Pitcalnie from continuing to take part in the Rebellion of 1745. Report of the Manuscripts of George Ross, Esor.. of Pitcalnie. in the County of Ross, by William Fraser, Edinburgh. Mr. Ross of Pitcalnie is the heir male of the ancient Earls of Ross, who were also Lords of Skye. This once powerful family was ennobled at a very early period of Scottish history. An Earl of Ross appears in the reign of King Malcolm the Mawen. who reigned from 1153-1165. Farquhar, Earl of Ross, founded the Abbey of Fearn, in the reign of King Alexander the Second. More than one of the family of the Earls of Ross intermarried with the Royal Family of Scotland, and the power of the Earls of Ross, especially in the north of Scotland, was so great as frequently to cause serious trouble to the monarch. But in the fifteenth century this family suffered an eclipse. In the year 1476 the Earldom of Ross was forfeited by an Act of Parliament of Scotland, and inalienably annexed to the Crown. William, Sixth Earl of Ross, who was Justicial of Scotland north of the Forth, obtained from King David the Second a charter dated 3 October, 1370, of the Earldom of Ross on Lordship of Skye. He had issue, two daughters ; the elder. Lady Euphemia Ross, who succeeded her father as Countess of Ross in 1372. married, first, Sir Walter Leslie, second son of Sir Andrew Leslie of that Ilk, and Sir Walter, in term of the Crown Charter of 1370, became, before 14 August, 1379, Earl of Ross. Of the marriage there was issue a son and daughter, the former of whom, Alexander Leslie, became Earl of Ross. He married Lady Esabel Stewart, daughter of Robert, Duke of Albany, by whom he had only one daughter, Lady Euphemia Leslie, who succeeded her father as Countess of Ross. Resolving to become a nun, she resigned in 1415 the Earldom of Ross to her uncle, John Stewart, Earl of Buchan ; but her aunt. Lady Margaret Leslie, wife of Donald, Lord of the Isles, successfully claimed the Earldom and title of Ross, and the Earldom of Ross and the Lordship of the Isle continued conjoined till the year 1476, when, as stated above, they were forfeited. Through the marriage of a Monro ancestor with a lady of the family of Lord Macdonald, the heir general of the ancient Earls of Ross and Lords of Skye is George Home-Brunning Home, Esquire of Argate, in the County of Perth. The younger daughter of William, Sixth Earl of Ross, Lady Johanna Ross, married Sir Alexander Fraser, who obtained with her the lands of Philorth, in the county of Aberdeen, which still form part of the inheritance of Lord Saltonnas, the descendant and representative of the Lady Johanna Ross or Fraser. Hugh Ross, of Rarichies, second son of Hugh, Earl of Ross, and Jean, daughter of Walter the High Steward of Scotland, obtained a charter in 1374 from King Robert the Second, in which he is designated his brother- in-law, of the lands of Balnagown and Rarichies. That Hugh Ross con- Ross of Pitcalnie. 123 tinued the family in the male line. After the forfeiture of the Earldom of Ross the Lairds of Balnagown were regarded as the head of the clan Ross, and they continued as such for many generations. David Ross, last of Balna- gown, sold the estate to General Ross, brother of Lord Ross of Hawkhead, who, although of the same name, was not of the same family. David Ross died in the year 171 1, without issue, and the representation in the male line then devolved on the Pitcalnie branch of the family. In 1545 Cardinal Beaton granted a charter of Confirmation to Charles Carncors of the lands of " Pitcallene," etc., belonging to the Bishoprick of Ross, as superior, to Alexander Ross of Balnagown and Katherine Mac- kenzie, his spouse. In 1587 Alexander Ross of Balnagown granted a charter to his son Nicholas Ross, of the lands of Pitcalnie and others, and Nicolas was afterwards known as the first Laird Ross of Pitcalnie. The agreement of date 20th July, 1676, entered into between Balnagown, the head of the clan Ross, and some of his kinsmen illustrates a point regard- ing the relation of the chief to the clan about which there has often been misconception. It has sometimes been supposed that the chief could do no wrong in the eyes of his followers, and was not in any way responsible for his bearing towards them. But this agreement, the occasion of which was that the Laird of Balnagown had cut with his " whinger " the head of one of his kinsmen, shows this to be an error, being that in the event of Balna- gown's acting unjustly towards his kinsmen, they would withdraw from following and wrong him. In the correspondence is a large number of letters from William, eleventh Lord Ross of Hawkhead, to the Laird of Balnagown. Lord Ross of Hawkhead wis anxious to be recognized as the head of the clan Ross, and made great promises of advancing the interest of all who bore that name, if Balnagowan should favor his views. The letter from Archibald, Earl of Argyle, to the wife of Balnagowan probably refers to Lord Lovat's first trial. Balnagowan was Lovat's cousin, and seems to have interested himself in the defence. The letters from Duncan Forbes, Lord President of the Court of Sessions, were occasioned by the son of Mr. Ross of Pitcalnie joining the party of Prince Charles Edward in the year 1745. Young Mr. Ross, while at Aberdeen College, had impressed his professor as a student of great promise, but at the same time as one who required strong rein and a steady hand to govern him. The subsequent actions of the young man showed the correctness of the professor's opinion, for all the entreaties of his father and the reasonings of the Lord President were not sufficient to draw him from the cause which he had espoused. There are a great many other letters in this collection which it has not been necessary to note, as well as other papers, among which is the petition of Munro Ross of Pitcalnie in 1778, regarding his claim to the Earldom of Ross, with relative papers. The charters previous to 1600 are noted and annexed hereto: 1. Notarial instrument, certifying that on the 24th day of January, 1456. a nobleman, John of Ross, Laird cf Balnagown, craved of Alexander of Southerland, Laird of Dunbeth. a bond for 2of usual money received and paid back. To which Alexander of Sutherland made answer saying that 124 Rossiana. he was fully paid and entered and claimed John of Ross for the sum, al- though he could not find the bond, yet he engaged that the said bond should never come in prejudice of the said John. Whereupon the said Laird of Balnagowan paid Alexander of Sutherland a certain sum of money for the wadsett of the lands of Culynorey and Moyblare, and asked the charter of wadsett to be returned to him. But Alexander of Southerland refused to give up the charter till John of Ross gave him a merk usual money beyond the sum for the maill of the land from the term of Martimas for the eight days past before payment, which John of Ross refused. Whereupon, with consent of both parties, the charter, with letter of reversion, was given to William Momlaw, notary public, to keep till the plea was settled who had a right to the merk. Done in the Church of Tayn, the above date. Present, Magnus Buze. rector of Olryk ; Thomas Colyson and William Momlaw, chaplains of Tayn ; Donald McFirissome and Christsan of Forres. 2. Charter of Assendation by Robert Bishop of Ross, commendator of Feme, to Charles Carncors, of the lands of Culderere Colnahaa, Pitcallene Amot Strononmadde, and Amot Aegglies. To be held of the Bishop of Ross in perform and heritage forever. Paying for the lands of Culderere five merks. half a mart, two sheep, six capons, six poultry and two kids, and forty eggs for six pennies, one boll of oats, commonly called " niggerging ates " and for gressum twenty-two shillings and three pennies. For the lands of Culuahaa forty shillings, a fourth part of a merk, etc. For the lands of Pitcallene, five merks. half a merk, two sheep, six capons, six poul- try, two kids and forty eggs for sixpence one boll of oats, and for gressum twenty-two shillings and three pennies, etc. And for arriages and carriages and other services from these lands two merks Scots. And giving three suits at the three head Courts at Chanoury. With a duplican on entry. Dated and signed by the bishop at the Chanoury of Ross, 18 May, 1543. [Seals wanting.] The preamble of the charter refers to the statutes passed by the King and Parliament of Scotland for leasing of lands, and the benefits thereby to accrue through building of sufficient houses, in breaking of land, amelioration of barren ground, planting trees, etc.. enriching of the tenantry and possessors " bestowed for the adornment and policy of the commonwealth of the King- and for defence of the Kingdom against ancient enemies, or any other invaders. 3. Precept of Sasine by Robert, Bishop of Ross, commendator of Feme for infefting Charles Carncors in the above lands of Culderer, Culuahaa, Pit- callene, Annot, Stranamaddow and Amott Eagglis. Dated and subscribed by the bishop at the Chanoury of Ross. 18 May, 1543. The bishop's rental was increased by the lease by the sum of two merks " bestowed for the adornment and policy of the commonwealth of the King- dom," besides a sum of money paid by the infeoffee. 4. Precept of Sasine. by Robert, Bishop of Ross, commendator of Feme, for infefting William Carncors in the lands of Vestir Ferbal, Sandvik Can- lochmore, Boithbege, Roiarchireachtrach, Rearchirorthrach, Canoichtrach. Dated at Chanoury of Ross, 18 May. 1543. A memorandum on the back states that Sasine was given on the 3 July, 1543. 5. Charge by Cardinal Beton, releasing the lease by Robert, late Bishop of Ross, to Charles Carnecors, layman of Glasgow diocese, of the church lands of Cuderere, Culnahaa, Pitcallene, Annott, Stronamaddo and Amot Eagglis ; and a petition by Charles Carnecors for confirmation by the Apostolic See. commanding the sub-Chantor of Moray, and Gaoin Leslies, and Thomas Gadderar. canons respectively of Aberdeen and Moray, to call together the dean and chapter of the Church of Ross, etc., and to ascertain whether the said lease was for the weal and benefit of the Church of Ross- and bishops of the See, and if so to confirm and ratify the same. Ross of Pitcalnic. 125 Dated at Edinburgh, in St. Andrew's diocese IX Kal., Februarii, 1545. The Cardinal appears to exercise his authority in this matter because of the decease of the Bishop of Ross. 6. Charter of Alienation by William Carncors of Cowmislie to Alexander Ross of Balnagowan, his heirs and assignees of the lands of Boith Beg, Kendlochmore, Rewfarquhare, Earththraich, Rewfarquhare, Oichthraich, and Canochthraich, lying in the Lordship and Bishopric of Ross, and part of Inverness ; to be held from the granter, his heirs and assignees of the Bishop of Ross and his successors, infeouff and heritage forever for payment of the sum of five pounds, thirteen shillings and four pennies Scots, half a merk, three sheep, etc., and in yearly augmentation of the rental of the bishopric four shillings and six pennies, with three suits of court at the three head courts held in Chanoury in name of feufarm ; and a duplicate by the heirs at their entrv. Dated at Edinburgh, 28 July, 1548. 7. Precept of Sasine by William Carncors of Cownislie for infefting Alexander Ross of Balnagowan in the lands of Borth Beg, Kandlochmor, Rewfarquhare Earththraich, Rewfarquhare, Oichthraich and Canochthraich, in the Lordship and Bishopric of Ross and Shire of Inverness, according to the preceding charter. Dated at Edinburgh. 28 July, 1548. 8. Precept of Sasine by John Duncan, Lord of the third part of the town and lands of Arkboll, for infefting Alexander Ross of Litill Terral, and Elizabeth Ross his spouse, in the third part of the town and lands of Arkboll. in the Earldom of Ross and Shire of Inverness. Dated at Terral Litill 12th day of January, 1566. 9. Confirmation by Mary Queen of Scots, under the Great Seal of Charter by John Duncan, with consent of Katharine Ross his spouse, to Alexander Ross of Litil Terral, and Elizabeth Ross his spouse, of the third part of the town and lands of Arkboll. To be held from the granter of the Crown Charter dated at Terrall Litill 12th January, 1561. Witnesses, John McCulloch of Litill Tarrell, etc. Confirmation dated at St. Andrews 24 February, 1662. 10. Charter by Henry, Bishop of Ross, as superior to Alexander Ross of Balnagowan and Katherine Makkenzie his spouse in conjunct fee, and the heirs male of their bodies, whom failing to the heirs of the said Alexander whomsoever of the town and lands of Culderrie, with brewhouse, etc., extend- ing to a half davoch of land, lands of Culahaa with brewhouse, etc., lands of Pitcalnie extending to a half davoch, fourth part of the lands of Ferbelt, lands of Annnot, Amot, Eglis, Borthbeg, Kenlochmoir, Eistir and Westir, Reinfaronharris, Kayndwochtheraich, fourth part of the croft of the said lands of Terbett, called Laird Croft (Croftadomin), fourth part of Brew- house of Terbett. fourth part of the fisher's croft, and fourth part of the mill of Terbett lying in the Diocese of Ross and Shire of Inverness, which for- merly belonged to Alexander Ross of Balnagown, heritable infeufing, and were resigned by him in the Bishop's lands of Roslyne. to be held of the Bishop of Ross. The reddendo is given at length. Among the services to be rendered were the leading " nyrae scoulaidis off, well, peillis to the bishop and his successors in manse of Nyg or Terbet when required, at their own charges, but the fuel to be cast and were at the bishop's charges, and to send ten horses for three days laboring and to give assistance in leading the sheaves of Nyg and Terley. and the tenants to assist in upholding the " 3 air " of Ryncame as formerly ; with three suits at the three head courts at Chanoury of Ross, with a deep license. The said Alexander and Catharine his wife and their heirs to make oath of fealty and homage, to the bishop at their entry, to maintain and defend his good lands, tends, and the orthodox faith to their power ; with other clauses and conditions, one being that if he rode or went on foot with any person, secular or ecclesiastic, against the bishop, or deforced his officers, he should lose the feufaim. Contains a Precept of Seisin and is dated at Roslyne, 22 April, 1563. Witnesses, William Sinclair of Roslyne, Sir John Robesoun, 126 Rossi a n a. Provost of Roslyne, St. James Gray, prebendary of Corstorphine, Sir Mark Jamesoun, Vicar of Kershindy, Alexander Pedder, Vicar of Urray, Notaries Public (seal needed entire). On the back is the instrument of Sasine. ii. Charter of Mary Queen of Scots, under the great seal, confirming a charter granted by John Donvoue, eportoner of Arkboll, with consent of Katherine Ross his wife, to his cousin William Donvoue of Petnely, his heirs and assignees of the third part of the town and lands of Arkboll, lying in the Earldom of Ross and Shire of Inverness to be held of the Crown. Charter dated at Petnely, 6th February, 1566. Witnesses, Andrew Ross, Bailie of Tayne, and others. Confirmation dated at Stirling, 4 July, 15.64. Witnesses, John, Archbishop of St. Andrew's; James, Earl of Mortoun; Wil- liam, Earl of Marischal, etc. [Seal.] T2. Charter by Nicholas Ross of Dunsraithe to Donald Ross of Litill Kinteis, his brother, in life rent of two oxgangs of his Kirkland of Duns- raith in the Earldom and Bishopric of Ross and Shire of Inverness. Dated and subscribed by the grantor at Pitcallene in Ross, 25 June, 1571. [Seal wanting.] 13. Tack by .Master Alexander Les, the parson of Kincairne (Kincaidine) with consent of the chapter of the Cathedral Kirk of Ross, to George Ross of Balnagowin. for a sum of money paid in name of person of the teind vicarage and parsonage of the lands of Argyle. Laichtclouek, " Ivercharroun, Scoll Langrie, Grunzeard, etc., lying in the Parish of Kincaidine, pertaining to him as part of his benefice, for nineteen years from the feast of Lainmas, 158O. Paying yearly at the Chanoury of Ross, seven score merks yearly for payment to the minister of Kincaidine of his stipend assigned to him furth of the thirds of the benefice. Dated at Elgin penult June, 1586. [Seal wanting.] 14. Charter by Alexander Ross, Laird of Balnagown, as ten bernle of the lands to his son Nicholas Ross of Pitcalnie, in fulfilment of his part of a • contract of marriage entered into between the said Alexander Ross and George Ross of Balnagown, and the said Nicolas, on the one part, and Hugh Munro of Assin as taken burden for his daughter Margaret Munro, relict of the late Alexander Ross of Litill Terrall on the other part, dated at Ark- boll, 23 January, 1587; of his few farm lands of Pitcalnie, Culderrerie, Cul- naha, Annett, with the quarter of the deuchy of Westy Terbart. Lands of Amot. Eglis, Litill Both, two Caindlochis, two Rinferquharis, and Caindwoch- treach. To be held from the granter of the Bishop of Ross for payment of the several Malls, fens grassums, etc. Reserving the life rent to the granter. Contains a precept of same, and is dated and subscribed at Eister Gany, 24 January, 1587. [Seal nearly entire.] 15. Letters of slains by John Rollok, burges of Dundee, and others, to Geo. Ross of Balnagowan, for the slaughter of Patrick Rollok by Nicholas Ross of Pitcalnie, 10 August. 1595. To all and singular quhome in offer is to quhais knowledge this present letters sail cum, Johnne Rollok, burges of Dundey, and George Rollok, my brother, brethingermane to one qulule Patrick Rollokquha was serin tutor in nos lyine to Sir Thomas Lyoun of Auld Sar Knicht, master of Glammis, with aduyse consent and assent of the richt honourabill Walter Rollok of Pitmeddee, tutour of Duncreeb, Peter, Bishop of Dun Relo, William Rollok of Balbegy and Andrew Rollock of Coistorne, breithir to the said Walter, Umpleras Rollok at the mylne of Fyndany, Robert Rollok of Marstoun and Robert Rollok of Bakak. the chief men and principallis of our kin on the father syde, and of William Schaw. of Lathangye and Harg Balfoure of Carprwie. two of the chief men and principallis of our kyn on the mother syde, greting in God everlasting. Wit ze ws, or dyney and sindriegreib Kowmes of money presentlie pay it and dely meritows, realy and with effect in numerat money, be ane honorabill man George Ross of Balnagowne. and for dyvers otheris greib respectis and gude considerationnes moving us. whaif remit'tib and forgivne and be the tensione heir of reintlas and for gevis hair- tlie with our hairtis to Nicolas Ross of Pitcalyne. brother to the said George Ross of Balnagowne. Walter Ros, William sone, Johnne Ros, Alices Reoch and Walter McCulloch and all other thair kyn; freindis, men leuneutis, ser- vancis adherentis, all ya assisteis and air taken all offence wiang, cryme, deid Ross of Pitcalnie. 127 and iniurie, counth be thaune, or any of thame, thereat the slaughter of the said inequhide Patrick Rollok our brother germane ; and als all feid rank our 16. For as meikle as upon the day of June, Jm Vie seventy-six years David Ross, Laird of Balnagowne did cut with his whinger the head of his kinsman, Walter Ross, bailie of Tayne, in the house of James Hay, late bailzie then, upon a de beat fallen out betain them ; and now seeing both the said parties are content and consent that the said act, and what might follow thereupon may be rather then legally amicably and Christianity mediat and composed ; therefore both the said parties do unanimouslie submit the de- cision and accommodation of the said act as said is to the arbitrement and determination of the friends underwreitin mutually chosen and nominal be as to that effect; that is to say, Walter Ross of Moeichanon, Malcolme Ross of Kindease, John Ross of Achnacloigh. Mr. Androw Ross, Minister at Tarbat ; Mr. Alexander Ross, Minister at Fearne ; Alexander Ross of Litle Tarrell, James Ross of Jye, Alexander Ross of Easter Ferae, John Ross, Bailzie of Tayne; William Ross Lachlinsone, late bailzie there; Robert Ross of Aldie, and Mr. Robey Ross, Minister at Tayne ; and to that effect we, the said parties. David Ross of Balnagown as chief and Walter Ross do hereby impower the forsaid freinds to appoint and propose not only betwixt us, but lykewise betwixt me the said Laird of Balnagowne as chiefe, and me the said Walter Ross as kinsman in the above. Within act and consequence thereof and all other our kinsmen in tyme causing as to our respective car- riage and behaviours in our several stationes. To which final sentence and determination of the above writtin friends or the greater part of them to be pronounced betwixt and the day of July ie seventie six years to be filled up upon the blank upon the back hereof, we the said Lairds of Balnagowne and Walter Ross bind and obligers, our aires, executors and successors faithfullee to adhere to and performe the said decerneing and decreet arbitrall mall point, under the failzie of one thousand marks usual Scots money, to be payed be the partie faileing to the partie willing to per- forme. And for the more securitie we, the said parties consent to the regis- tratione hereof in the Books of Council or Session or any other books com- petent to have the strength of a decree of other of thes judicatories that letters of promeing and all other executoriallis needfull may informe as effeirs pass thereon ; and to that effect constituts our procurators, etc. In witness whereof we the said parties have subscribed their presents wreitin be the said Mr. Robert Ross, with our hands at Tayne, the twentie day of Julie Jm Vie seventie sex years, before their witnesses David McCul- loch, Andrew Ross, younger merchant of Tayne, Lachlan Ross, merchant there, and Thomas Ross, seratortome, the said Laird of Balnagowne ; Sic sub- scribetur David Ross of Balnagowne [etc.]. The arbitrators find that the " act of bloodine " done by the said Laird of Balnagowne on the said Walter Ross was the result of a mistake and groundless jealousy, and that having regard to the welfare of both parties, they cannot excuse the said act. They oblige the said Laird of Balnagowne to acknowledge the wrong and injury done by him to the said Walter Ross, and to be more friendly for the future: And they determine that if any of the kinsmen of the said Laird offend or injure him then the offender, real or supposed, shall be convened before them, and the matter decided " by the sober advyce and counsell of us the said friends : " And further they resolve that if any friend be found to have done real injury to the Laird of Balna- gowne, and shall not subject himself to the regulation of the said Laird according to the advice of the said friends, then they shall concur with the Laird in reducing the " refractorie " person to order ; " and in case he con- tinue contumacious that he be declared and held by the Laird of Balnagowne and his friends as a stranger." And finally " if it shall happen (as God forbid) 128 Ross i a ii a. that contrary to the above wreitin course and determinatione, the said Laird of Balnagowne shall injure or wrong any of his kinsmen in other then per- sones or interests then and in that case " all the Lairds of Balnagowne's kinsmen shall concur to behave themselves as accord in law of any injunc •done be the Laird of Balnagowne to any of them." And further it's hereby judged and determined that if the said Laird of Balnagowne shall not be advysed be his friends, as said is (as Lord forbid) then the said freinds shall withdraw from following or serveing him as kinsmen. The Decree to be registered in the Books of Council and Session or other books competent, 21 July, 1576. 17. Letter by John, Earl of Sutherland, and others to the Laird of Findres- sie, calling a meeting at Fores about the innovations of the Service Book : Inverness. 16 April, 1638. Wery honerabill. — We have receivit letters from the rest of the nobilitie daitit at Edinburgh the 26 of March, desyring us to meit heir at Inverness on the 25 of this moneth, which we have obeyth to the effect that their com- missioneris might informe us trewlie of their proceedings concerning the novatione of the Service Book and others abussis, so much threating the overthrow of religion, laws and liberties of this kingdome ; On we find our selffis sufhcientlie satisfiet, and they have done nothing in all their proceiding is hot qukat is by all. to the glorie of God, the honour of our dreids overagued the King, our minister which is and sal be warrand it be the laws of the Kingdome. And following their good example all we have communicat the same with the whole gentrie. ministers and borrowis of the schyris of Caithnes. Sutherland, Inverness. Cromertie. We have find all kynd of people weill satisfeit, and for your better s a tisfactioune we have resolved to be at Forres on Saturday in be aughthoms the 28 of this instant, quhairze will be pleased to meet me. and to receive the lyk satisfactione,_ or giff your oppinionn in a matter so neither concemeing us all so expecting to see you there as we sal ever remayne. Your Affectionat good friends. Signed by John, Earl of Sutherland, Lords Lovat, Reay and Sinclair, and the Lairds of Balnagowan and Strichey. To our werie honorable and lubfine friend anil cussing the Laird of Finressieness. 18. Archibald, tenth Karl of Argyll, to the wife of Balnagowan: Edinburgh, January 18th. Madame. — This goes by the Lord Lovertt, who 1 have done my best endowmens to serve, in prosecution of the severall recommendations I have had from Ballengown chiefly, and from bis other friends. I have hitherto had successe in what I attempted, and since matters are come so good a lenth, it were sad if now anie thing should miscarry. He resolves to stand his tryall to clear himself of these false calumnies laid to his charge. Non has hitherto appear'd so publickly for him as Ballengown, so that both for Lord Lovatts interest, and Ballengowns own honor, in my humble opinion it is highly reasonable Ballengown comes hither with him, and own him at his tryall. He*el gain no new enemies by it. but show his firmnesse to his friend in supporting him in so criticall conjuncture. This I offer as my opinion, and must entreat of you to advyse him the same. I am. Madame, Your most affecttionatte nephew, and humble servant. Argyle. 19. Duncan Forbes of Culloden, to Alexander Ross of Pitcalny : Culloden, 25 Oct., 1745. Dear Sir. — I never was more astonished, and but seldom more aflicted in my life, than I was when I heard of the madness of your son. I cannot con- ceive by what magick he has been prevailed on to forfeit utterly his own Ross of Pitcalnie. 129 honour ; in a signall manner to affront & dishonour me whom you made answerable for him ; to risk a halter which, if he do not succeed must be his doom, without any other tryall than that of a court marshal, & to break the heart of an indulgent father as you are, which I am persuaded must be the case, unless he is reclaimed. The villain who seduced him profiting of his tender years & want of experience, tho I hope I am a Christian, I never will forgive, tho him I will, if he return quickly to his duty without com- mitting further folly. But if, trusting to indulgence on account of our rela- tion, he presists in the course in which I am told he is at present engaged, I think it but fair to declare to you, in the most solemn manner, that the very relation and connection to which he may trust will determine me to pursue him. with the utmost rigour, to that end which his conduct will most undoubtedly deserve. And, when I have said this, I can take God to wit- ness that he is the only person concerned in the present unhappy commotion, lor whom my heart would not lead me to be a solicitor, when things have that issue, which I believe they will soon have. In justice and friendship to you, and in hopes that he may repent before it is too late, I give you the trouble of this letter, and have desired your friend Air. Baily to deliver to you, not doubting that to save your son and to prevent my dishonour, you will do all that is in your power. I am, dear Sir, under great concern, your most obedient and most humble servant. Dun Forbes. (Address) To Alexander Ross of Pitcalny, Esqr. 20. The same to the same : Culloden, 7th November, 1745. Dear Sir. — I need not tell you what concern Malcolm's folly has given me. I sent him repeated messages to come and see me, which produced no other effect but a letter from him promising to do so, if I would give it him under my hand that he should be at liberty to return to Perth, whether he was by his parole of honour bound to return. I without lossing an moment, wrote him that effect a letter in the strongest terms last Monday, which was that day delivered to him, but to no purpose. Either his own apprehension or evill councillors have got the better of him ; and I confess my concern for him is very great. The only thing, however, like an ouvert act he has done, is the dispersing the men that were assembled in order to form the Independent Company. Xow if none of thise should actually follow him, I should hope that discouragement will be so great that he will choice not to venture further than he has done, but rather return to where he was confined than to make such a figure as in that case he must make should he follow the opinion of his present advisers. It is for this reason, dear Sir, that I give you the trouble of this line to entreat that you will lend your assistance to the other gentlemen of the name to whom I have wrote, not only to prevent the debauching any of the men, but also to prevail with them to form the Independent company now forming, that all the world may see that the unhappy youth's folly had no encouragement from you. I need to make use of little argument with vou to enforce an advice so agree- able to what I daresay are your own inclinations, nor need I spend time in assuring you that I am with great simpathy as well as sincerity Your most obedient and most humble servant. Dun Forbes. To Alex. Ross of Pitcalney, Esqr., at Arboll. The other papers and correspondence on the Pitcalnie collection .do not require special notice, as not coming within the scope of the commission. William Fraser. Edinburgh, 32, Castle Street, 4 September, 1876. ROSS OF BALBLAIR. GENERAL MEREDITH READ, being a direct descendant of David Ross of Balblair, and, through him, of the houses of Balmachy, Shandwick and Balnagown, and of the ancient Earls of Ross in Scotland, naturally took a deep interest in the history and descent of this illustrious family, and gave much time and care to making researches among the ancient charters and documents still in existence bearing on the Ross family. In answer to an inquiry sent to R. R. Stodart, Esq., of the Lyon Office, Edinburgh, General Read received the following letter, under date of August — 1872: " There is no published history of the family of Ross, of the County of Ross, or of the Parish of Fearn. The Registers of that Parish only begin in 1749 for baptisms and in 1783 for marriages, so that the baptism of the Rev. George Ross is not to be found there. The lands of Balblair of old belonged to the Abbey of Fern, founded in the thirteenth century by Ferqu- hard, Earl of Ross, head of one of the most powerful houses in Scotland which ended in the direct male line on the death of William, seventh earl, about the year 1375 when the earldom passed to females and was finally annexed to the Crown. " Many of the younger branches of this family continued to hold lands within the County of Ross. The chief of these was Ross of Balnagown, the heir male of the earls. The Balnagown estate passed by sale, upwards of a century ago, into the possession of a family of the same name, but belonging to a different race and carrying dissimilar arms, and is now the property of Sir Charles Ross, Baronet. 1 " Mr. Ross, of Pitcalnie, is the representative and heir male of the ancient Earls of Ross. " The arms of the Earls were three lions rampant as in the arms of Ross of your house, but the colours were reversed, namely the lions were or and the field gules. 2 ( In Scotland the reversal of tinctures was the sign of a cadet house.) " The motto, ' Nobilis est ira leonis/ appears in the Lyon Register as allowed in 1767 to David Ross, of Priest Hill, descended from Balnagowan. It is also borne now by Ross of Invercharron, who claims the same origin, but his right to arms has not been established here. 3 " The family of Ross maintained a close connection with the Abbey, founded by Earl Ferquhard. 1 nd several of the Abbots were of that surname. In the reformation the commandatorship was held by three generations in succession: Nicholas Ross, 1561 to 1566, died in 1569; Thomas Ross, 1566 to 1569, and Walter Ross, whose appointment was in 1584. The Abbey lands feued out and alienated, and I find that in 1550 Balblair was granted to Ross of Balnagown. lThis family, however, gave up their arms and assumed those of Balnagown. "I am sorry to say that the learned gentleman is wrong. The arms of the Earls of Ross never bore a' gold lion. Gold lions appear on an ancient stone carving at Balna- gown, but this painting is a recent ornamentation. 3 This fact does not invalidate his claims; for in Scotland many of the most ancient houses are not registered in the Lyon Office, which was only instituted in 1673, and their descent and standing being clear they deem it unnecessary to pay the fees. Ross of Balblair. 131 " David Ross, of Balblair, was dead before the 14th of January, 1710, the date of the general service of his son, Andrew of Balblair, to him. These are, of course, the father and brother of the Rev. George Ross." On September 6, 1872, Mr. Stodart wrote General Read as follows : " The marriage Registers of Ross were burnt early in this century at Tain, and no record of Wills prior to this exists. I may state that there is a mass of papers, some of the Wills, in a very damp, decayed state in a belfry of the Tower Hall of Tain, quite unarranged. The expense of going over these would be very great as a person would have to be sent from here. I hear, however, that there is some prospect of these documents being brought to this Register House and put in order ; but this may be a work of years. The records of the burgh of Tain only extend back to 1824. " Balblair was sold to William Ross, of Shandwick, writer in Edinburgh, who died in 1739, but socine is not recorded." A few days later (September 11, 1872) Mr. Stodart again wrote General Read, an extract from which letter follows : " I am very glad to hear that you propose visiting Tain and making personal investigation among the mouldering records there. I presume that you will pass through Edinburgh on your way and trust that I may have the pleasure of seeing you here. I do not see that there is anything more to be done, — the records being in such a very imperfect state, — unless you are inclined to incur the expense of a thorough search in the register of deeds, the cost of which might perhaps be thirty pounds. It contains contracts of marriage, bonds for money, disposition of lands and so forth and various other legal documents- The Register is very voluminous and not indexed alphabetically. The searcher whom I employed on your behalf is at present employed on an extensive investigation in connection with the family of Ross of Shandwick, and I hope to hear from him when and for what price Balblair was sold." Much interesting information concerning Balblair was contained in a communication from Mr. Stodart to General Read, dated January 3, 1873, as follows : "On the nth of March, 1709, David Ross of Balblair disponed the Mansion House and the Wester half of the property in life rent to his wife Margaret. He was dead 21 February, 1710, when his widow had sosine of the lands. David Ross on the 8th March, 1707, had disponed Balblair, reserving a life rent to himself and his wife, to his grandson Andrew (son of his own eldest son Andrew), and the heirs male of his body whom failing to the other heirs male of Andrew, whom failing to the Rev. George Ross and the heirs male of his body, whom failing to Hugh Ross third lawful son of the said David and the heirs male of his body. 'After David's death his eldest son Andrew had sosine of the land of Ballon in the County of Ross as heir to his father. Balblair was sold before 1732, probably after the death of Andrew junior to whom it had been conveyed by his grandfather David. Andrew was living on the 31st July. 1728, and died 2nd June, 1730, when his Aunt Bessie, second lawful daughter of David Ross of Balblair, and her husband were confirmed executors dative as next of kin. I have obtained a note from a letter dated 31st March, 1764, addressed by Dr. Gordon to John Ross, Esquire, Counsellor at Law of Philadelphia, in which he says he had applied to David Monro, Writer to the Signet, grandson of David Ross of Balblair, for information, and Mr. Monro believed his grandfather to be descended from Shandwick or Little Tarrell." In a later communication, dated January 30, 1873. Mr. Stodart says : " 1 have not seen a copy of the Chronicle of the Earls of Ross, which is out of print and only to be met with at sales. There is no printed list of ijj Rossiana. graduates of the University of Edinburgh at an early period; the calendar is quite a modern annual publication. Little Tarrell is in Ross-shire." General Meredith Read having met. at the Congress of the Archaeological Institute of Great Britain at Exeter in August, 1873. the well-known antiquary and book collector, John Whitefoord MacKenzie, of 16 Royal Circus, Edin- burgh, addressed a letter, dated August 17, to this gentleman, in which he said : " In 1700 one of my ancestors, the Rev. George Ross, son of David Ross, Esquire, of Balblair, graduated at the University of Edinburgh and passed through the Divinity School. He went over to the Church of England, and, having been ordained by the Bishop of London, emigrated to the Province of Delaware where he became one of the founders of the Established Church in America. He died Rector of Emmanuel Church, New Castle. Delaware, in 1754, in the seventy-fifth year of his age. His eldest son, the Hon. John Ross, was an eminent lawyer and Royal Attorney General. His second son was a distinguished Judge and became one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. His daughter Gertrude married my great grandfather, the Hon. George Read. Royal Attorney General, afterwards Chief Justice and one of the six Signers of the Declaration of Independence who were also Signers and Framers of the Constitution of the LJnited States. The third Mm. the Rev. Aeneas Ross, was a distinguished clergyman who was ordained by the Bishop of L »ndon. Aeneas Ross was named after his father's dear friend, the Rev. Aeneas McKenzie, Chaplain to the Earl of Cromarty, Secre- tarj of State for Scotland, who emigrated to Staten Island at the same time as the Rev. George Ros>. Senr., went to America. Mr. MacKenzie. on his return home from Exeter, received the letter of General Read, and answered it as follows, under date of September 22, 1873: " When I had the pleasure of seeing you at Exeter, I understood you to say that your ancestor was a son of Ross of Little Tarrell; but in your letter you said that he was a son of Ross of Balblair. The last Ross of Little Tarrell was an intimate friend of my father and of myself after I came to college. Me was also proprietor of the estates of Kerse and Skeldon in Ayrshire all of which had been sold before I knew him. 1 have always under- stood that his father had been a merchant in London and had purchased Kerse and Skeldon, the former of which had long been possessed by an old family of the name of Crauford, and the latter by a branch of the Campbells of which name there are many proprietors in Ayrshire. I recollect that he was possessed of a splendid dinner set of old Indian China, having blasoned upon it the arms of the old Earls of Ross, namely. Gules, three lions ram- pant, argent, two and one. without any difference. There are no arms matriculated for Little Tarrell. or for Balblair in the Lyon Register. The only families of the name registered up to the time your ancestor left this country were Balnagowan, Moran. Knockbreck, Pickerrie and Kindace. " Mr. Ross left several sons, who are all dead, except one, Alexander, who has lived at Dresden for many years. He comes sometimes to this country and always comes to see me. Prior to 1577 Little Tarrell belonged to McCullo or McCulloch. as in that year Margaret was served heir to her father John. " There is a John Ross of Little Tarrell in 1581, who must have died prior to the 31st July, 1596, as on that day Marjory and Isabella, daughters of Alexander Ross of Little Tarrell. are served heirs portioners to Alexander their father, who was probably John's son. Mickell Tarrell. prior to 1627, was the property of Sir Roderick Mackenzie of the Coegache, and is now the property of his representative, the Duchess of Sutherland, Countess of Cromartie. I think that I mentioned to you that the Rosses, particularly of Balnagowan or Rarichies are called Clanlanders or Clanlandric. This is accounted for in 'Ane Brieffe Discourse ' of the family in these words, Ross of Balblair. 133 'While Cluganach (about 1394) Gulia had to his Wyffe Paull McTyres Dochter call it Katherene, quhairby the Ross are call it Clanlanders.' Should I be able to learn anything further of the Rosses of Little Tarrell and Bal- blair, I shall inflict another long letter on you." Memoranda by General Meredith Read. The following notes concerning the Ross family and the Abbacy of Fearn were made by General Meredith Read in the library of the Marquess of Bute, at Mount Stuart, Rothesay, Isle of Bute, September 7, 1877, and are from " Origines Parochiaies Scotiae " ("The Antiquities, Ecclesiatical and Territorial, of the Parishes of Scotland"), volume two, Edinburgh, 1855, published by the Bannatyne Club, and contributed by the Duke of Sutherland and the Right Hon. Sir David Dundas: Between the years 1561 and 1566 we have the following rental of the Abbey given by Nicholas Ros (Ross) as commandator of Feme to the Collector of Thirds — " First, the landis contennit in the laird of Bal- langownis feu chartour, Invercarroun, Vestir Ferine, Downy, Westray, Mul- darg, Knockydaff, Myltoun, Balanock, Midilgany. Pitkery, the Manes of Fearine, Eister Gany, Wastir Gany. Meikill Rany, Baillieblair (Balblair) the Dow Croft, Brighous, Mylecroft, and Weitland and the fishing of Bonach ; * * * p. 437 of this book. * * * In 1570 King James VI, for the good service done by Alexander Suthirland during the regency of James Earl of Murray and subsequently, granted to him for life a yearly pension of 80 bolls of victual out of two thirds of the bishoprick of Ross, then vacant by the forfeiture of John bishop of Ross for treason and lese majesty; and as security he granted to him the tenual victual of the lands of Eister Gany, Midgany, Westir Gany Balleblair and Mekill Gany in the parish of Tarbet. * * * Pages 438-439. * * * In 1606 James Gordoune of Letterfurie was served heir to his father Patrick Gordoune of Letterfurie in the manor of Feme the lands of * * * Bal- blair * * * page 440. * * * In 1643 Sir James Sinclair of Cannesbye, Baronet, was served heir male to his grandfather George Sinclair of May in half the manor of Feme of old called the Monastery of Feme, the lands and town of Eistir Gany and called Mid Ganye * * * the lands of Belblaire * * * all in the baronye of Ganyes and Shereiffdom of Inverness, and united into the barony of Cadball * * * p. 440. In the Abbey Church of Fearn there is a stone effigy of Ferquhard, Earl of Ross, page 441. For an account of the arms and clan of Ross, see Hist, of the Scottish Highlands, Highland Clans and Highland Regiments, edited by John S. Keltie, F. S. A. Scot, published by A. Fullerton and Co., Edinburgh and London, 1875, Vol. II, pp. 235-237. MONRO OF ALLAN. THE family of Monro (or Munro) of Allan were in early times vassals of the Earls of Ross, and their lands lay along the north shore of the Cromartie Firth. Their possession of Foulis Castle has been ascribed to a period beyond written record. They are chiefs of the Clan Monro. Robert Monro, who succeeded his father of the same name but fell at Pinkie in 1747, married first a daughter of James Ogilvy and had two sons, Robert and Hector. He married, secondly, Katherine. daughter of Alexander Ross, by whom he had George Obsdale, ancestor of the third and succeeding baronet; the Fourth, John of Daan ; the Fifth, Andrew of Daan. Daan House is situated in Edderton Parish on the borders of the burn called Daan. in Ross-shire. The latter is formed by two head streams and running 2% miles N. N. E., reaches the North Dornach Firth at Ardmore Point, 1 34 miles West by North Mickle Ferry. Daan House is about one mile from the old mansion of Balblair. the ancient residence of the Rosses of Balblair, which has long since disappeared. Tbe Monro arms are: Or, an eagle, head erased gu. Crest — An eagle perching proper. Motto — Dread God. Tbe seat of .Monro of Allan is Allan House, Tain, Co. Ross. The descent of the family from Hugh Monro, thirteenth Baron of Foulis, to David .Monro, of Allan, who married Elizabeth, daughter of David Ross, of Balblair, is as follows: Hugh Monro, 13th Baron of Foulis. in 1425. married, first a daughter of Keith, Earl Marischal. which lady died in giving birth to her first son. He married, second, the Lady Margaret Sutherland, daughter of Nicholas, Earl of Sutherland, and had by her one son John Monro, ancestor of the Monros, Lairds of Milntown, Co. Ross. His grandson Andrew Monro, of Milntown, acquired large possessions by his wife, married in 151 1. He was succeeded in the estate of Milntown by bis eldest son, George Monro, and gave the lands of Allan and Allanmore to his second son, William Monro. William Monro, of Allan, Esq.. born 1535. married Catherine, daughter of Brigadier Shaw. Their son Andrew Monro, of Allan. Esq., born 1560, married Mary Ross. Their son David Monro, ot Allan, Esq.. born in 1600, was married, and his son David Monro, of Allan, born in 1640, was captain in Earl of Rothes' Horse; fell at the battle of the Bovne. He married Mary, daughter of Sir John Davis, of Whitehall, Carrickfergus, and grand- Monro of Allan. 135 daughter of Sir John Davis, Attorney-General of Ireland. Their son David Monro, of Allan, Esq., was the ancestor of the present David Monro, Esq., of Allan, Co. Ross. J. P. and D. L. for Cos. Ross and Cro- marty. (Burke, Landed Gentry.) He mar- ried Elizabeth Ross, daughter of David Ross, of Balblair, and his wife, Margaret. CORRESPONDENCE RELATIVE TO MONRO OF ALLAN AND ROSS OF BALBLAIR. In the early part of May, 1888, in the course of his researches, General Meredith Read discovered that Monro of Allan, Ross-shire, was, like himself, a descendant of David Ross of Balblair and Balloun. He accordingly addressed a letter to David Monro, Esq., of Allan, County Ross, J. P. and D. L. for the counties of Ross and Cromarty, formerly in the Seventy-sixth Regiment, and received the following reply : Allan By Tain, Ross-shire. N. B. igth May, 1888. Dear General Read. — I am in receipt of your friendly letter. I am proud to think that we are related. I am no genealogist, but my daughter is very strong in that line, and she will write to you about Ross of Balblair and Monro of Allan. Should anything bring you to Scotland we will be delighted to see you and most cordially welcome you here. I remain, Dear General Read, Yours very truly, D. Monro. This was followed by a letter from Miss Leila Monro, dated 19th May, 1888, as follows: Dear General Read.— I have great pleasure in giving you all the infor- mation I can regarding our mutual ancestor. Unlike my father, I am very fond of genealogies and antiquities, and have often puzzled myself over the total disappearance of the Rosses of Balblair. We see in Burke your most distinguished career fully described and we did not know that the Rosses had any descendant of such talent and energy. I regret to say that I have nothing belonging to the family save one old book of 1696 and a family dictionary well bound and full of wonderful prescriptions and so forth, — David Ross's name being well-written on its strong boards. The marriage contract between David Monro and Elizabeth Ross is also in my father's strong box. Many slips of Monro parchments and papers of very early date, but no Ross documents save this contract. I have never heard of any portraits of these Rosses and the estate has been sold and bought over and over again, divided and so forth. One-half is now a shooting and the other half is a large farm and huge Whiskey distillery. The nicest part, — the shooting — belonged to an English manufacturer. Almost every branch of the Ross family is extinct and their estates are merged in the great Balnagowan estate which once belonged to our barons of Balnagowan. The last Ross, Baron David, died childless in 1714, and hating his next heir, Ross of Pitcalnie, he sold the great Balnagowan estate to a Lowland Lord, no relation of his, but a great friend, called Lord Ross of Hawk-head in Renfrewshire, now represented in the female line by Lord Glasgow. This Lord Ross left Balnagowan to his sec?nd son John Ross, who married a 136 Rosstand. daughter of Count Lockhart of Leslie. They had one David who became heir of Balnagowan and married another Lockhart of the same family, but her husband assumed his wife's name of Ross. These people are the immediate ancestors of the present baronet of Balnagowan, and, though of extremely ancient and distinguished ancestors, have no descent from the Highland Ross of Balnagowan which is quite extinct in the male line, as all the Ross families are. Ross of Pitcalnie. the first cadet branch, was always acknowledged as Chief of the Clan, though Pitcalnie was a very small estate and much in debt. The last laird died four years ago, childless, so, having no brother or nephew in the male line, this little property of ten thousand acres has gone to the grand-on of his sister, a boy called Williamson. My father has a very good oil painting of David Monro, the son of Elizabeth Ross. He was a distinguished Edinburgh lawyer and died in 1767 when he was succeeded by my grandfather Charles Monro, then a boy, who lived to be a great age, my father being in his eightieth year, so from the longevity in the family a few lives carry us far back. My father has masses of Monro parchments and an extraordinary genealogie of Monro and of the old branch, beginning witli the date 1025 and going on lineally and distinctly to David Monro and Elizabeth Ross when it closes. It is very old and very large and most curious. About nine years ago old Allan House was burnt to the ground, but all the valuables were secured with the old china and so forth. I hope you will excuse any mistakes in writing. I am, \ 1 mrs truly, Leila Monro. On the eighth July following Miss Monro again wrote to General Mere- dith Read as follows : Dear General Read. — I have been absent for a little visit at Coul, a lovely place of Wester Ross, and have lately returned finding your most interesting letters. Curiouslv enough, when you visited Scotland in '~J my father's old house of Allan was burnt on the 8th June. I was in London at" the time, my mother in Ayrshire and my father had just returned in time to find his house all burning after having had it painted and done up for the rest of his days. Being uninsured, or very triflingly insured, it has been a most seriou> misfortune, & all the furniture was burnt with the exception of some old cabinets and pictures on the first floor, which were got out before the fire approached and all the parchments and papers wh were in tin boxes were all saved, but very tine and curious old china was lost; some of great value and five good pictures, ornamental not family ones. The Duchess of Sutherland is one of our oldest and best friends. Her father's place wh she now inhabits is 5 miles only from here — called Tarbet. We have often been to Dunrobin in their old gay days. They are now very quiet in comparison. Tarbet was once called Milntown and belonged to my father's own ancestors Monros of Milntown and New More with a dozen other places. These Monros were hereditary sheriffs or maors of Ross from 1425 until 1646 when the old castle of Milntown was burnt to the ground and all in it — from lighting fires when the chimneys were full of jackdaws nests made of dry sticks and straws. In those days there \vere no means of arresting a conflagration and then these Monros were ruined and sold Milntown to the first Viscount Tarhat who directly changed the name to his own title. He was the ancestor of the present Duchess of Sutherland and her son bears the title of Viscount Tarbat. She is Countess of Cro- martie. We had only this place left — Allan — and here we have been ever since then and have not risen to our old standing of great barons. Fire pursues the name. Our chief's Castle of Foulis has been burnt 3 times and the war cry of our clan is " Castle Foulis on fire." I cannot spell the Gaelic (translated) which was used in war to gather the forces together. You give me all the information I ever had of the extinct Rosses of Balblair. All I ever knew was that David Monro's mother was Elizabeth Ross, daughter of David Ross of Balblair and his name in that old book. I have Monro of Allan and Ross of Balblair. 137 never heard any one speak of them. When land is lost a family is soon forgotten. David Ross's signature though well written is so faint in that old faded ink that it would not photograph. I will try to copy it. I wish I knew anything to help you in your researches, but except what you have yourself told me I know nothing. The house you mention (Daan) belonged to Monro of Milntown. They had an enormous property in the tigh of Moray, their power was much greater than that of our chief at Foulis. Father will hope to see you at the New Allan, not to call but to pay him a visit though he is so old that he cannot reckon on many years — though the old last often when the young go. With many thanks for your letter and my best regards to your ladies, believe me dear General Read Yours truly, Leila Monro. The last remark in this letter, — that the old often last when the young go — seemed to be prophetic, for General Meredith Read received, on the fifth September, a letter addressed to him by Mrs. David Monro, the mother, dated Allan by Fearn, Ross-shire, N. B., 3rd September, 1888, as follows : My Dear Sir. — You will I feel sure be grieved to hear very sad news of my beloved daughter who lately corresponded with you. She died on the 21st August after a short illness, the result of repeated and neglected chills when visiting from home some weeks before. Almost the last effort of her pen was answering your last letter and though not in her usual health no fatal termination was then expected. To her aged father and to me the loss is irreparable. She was my only link with the outer world, as I am an invalid & never leave our home. She was much loved & appreciated by a large circle of friends the names of some of them you will see in the newspaper I send you with the account of her funeral : many more wreaths and crosses arrived too late & were placed on her grave. My son, Captain David Monro, his wife and family are here at present, he, after fourteen years military service in India retired, & was appointed Her Majesty's Inspector of Police for all Scotland. His wife was a Miss Pelly, whom you will find in Burke among the Pelly Baronets. He has three lovely daughters, aged from twenty to fifteen years' and three sons. If you ever visit Edinburgh, his home, and care to make their acquaintance, I enclose his card. Captain D. Monro, H. M. Inspector of Constabulary for Scotland, Nczv Club, Edinburgh & 13 Blantyre Terrace. He is of course often absent on his official duties, but his family are only absent when here. My poor daughter was looking forward to seeing you some time but alas are we not daily learning that " L'homme propose et Dieu dispose." Death has robbed every house in this county of one of its chief members, to God's will we must all bend. I think my dear daughter told you that our house was burnt about the time you visited the North, and we were away pending the building of a new one. Excuse this badly expressed, and still worse written letter, but it has been an effort I have been wishing to make. I remain most truly yours, Elizabeth Monro. Extract From the Northern Chronicle, Wednesday, August 29, 1888. The Late Miss Monro of Allan. — The funeral of the late Elizabeth Leila Monro, eldest daughter of David Monro of Allan, took place at Kilmuir on Saturday and although intended to be strictly private, many friends kindly 138 Rossi cvia. attended. The service was conducted by the Rev. Canon Thoyts, St. Andrews, Tain. Beautiful wreaths and crosses were sent by the Duchess of Sutherland; Mrs. F. M. Reid; the hon. Mrs. E. Willoughby; Sir Hector and Lady Monro of Foulis ; Sir Charles and Lady Ross of Balnagowan, and Miss Barnes ; Lady and Miss Mackenzie of Coul ; Mrs. Monro-Ferguson of Raith and Novar; Mrs. Romaines of Geanies House; Miss Murray of Geanies ; Mrs. Murray, Kirkton; Mrs. Brydone, Cromarty; Sir Kenneth Matheson of Lochalsh and Ardross ; the servants at Allan and many others. The chief-mourners were Mr. Monro of Allan ; Captain and Mrs. David - Monro and their sons and daughters; Sir Hector Monro of Foulis; Sir Arthur Mackenzie of Coul; Admiral Mackenzie, Coul, and Major F. M. Reid, Golspie. Mrs. Monro wrote again from Allan on the 29th March, 1890. Dear General Read. — In your last letter, written at the time of my dear daughter's death, you kindly said that you and Mrs. Read would be pleased to see any member of our family if they visited Paris. A niece of Mr Monro, Mrs Fraser, a widow, and her only daughter propose going there for a short time. The health and spirits of the latter have been sadly shaken by the sudden death of her only sister nearly a year ago at the age of 18. Her husband was Mr Fraser of Eskadale an estate in this county, sold at his death to Lord Lovat as a provision for her chil- dren. They have lived abroad frequently, speak French fluently and I hope you may all find them agreeable. The universal epidemic we observed, was very severe in Paris. I trust you and your family escaped its attacks. In this country it assumed rather a milder type, but everyone felt it more or less. Many sad events have occurred since our short correspondence. The loss of our oldest and dear friend the Duchess of Sutherland we have deeply deplored. Her family estate and one of her houses — Tarbet House — is only four miles from here, and she never failed to visit us when staying there, and a fortnight before her death and on the eve of her last journey southwards, she sat an hour with me. then suffering from bronchitis and quite unfit for the long journey and all the last fatiguing efforts she maae to see her husband. It was all a tragedy, and what a result ! ! We knew her from her childhood and I write of her now remembering you have mentioned your visit to Dunrobin. I have been reading an interesting book, " Motley's Letters, etc." and have been fancying you may have known him or met him in the diplomatic service. He was a short time U. S. Minister to London and Vienna. His eldest daughter married Sir Harcourt. Please accept our united kind regards. * * * Mr Munro was eighty-one years his last birthday and I only four years younger, so you may fancy our time here must soon come to a close. I wish we had known vou in earlier davs. LIST OF GUESTS INVITED TO THE FUNERAL OF HUGH MUNRO OF TEANINICH. MUNRO AND ROSS FAMILIES IN I703. THE Highlanders of old were extravagant in their funeral and marriage and ordinary social functions. The following list of the people invited to the funeral of Hugh Munro, of Teaninich, shows to what pitch funeral extravagance could rise, even in the case of a family of moderate estate at the beginning of Queen Anne's reign ; for be it remembered that all who attended were profusely entertained as invited guests. The list, however, is more deserving of publication on another account than the pointing out a moral and a contrast of changed customs. It indicates the men of influence, and importance over a wide district who were connected with or known to the Teaninich family. How many of them are represented to-day by descen- dants in the places which belonged to them? How many names have in two centuries dropped out of local existence altogether? Copy of the Funeral Letter Used in Connection with this Funeral. Much honored, — The honour of your presence on Thursday next be ten of the cloak in the forenoon, being the twenty-third inst., and to convoy ye corps off Hugh Munro of Teaninich, my grandfather, from his dwelling- house, att Milnetoune off Alnes, to his buriall place at Alnes.-— Is earnestly intreated, much honored, your most humble servt.. HUGH MUNRO. Milnetoune of Alness, 18th Sept., 1703. Ane List of the Gentlemen Invited to the Deceased Hugh Munro off Teaninich His Buriall, 17TH Sept., 1703. Contoune Paroch (Contin). Mr iEneas Morison, minister, yr. (there) Sir John Mackenzie off Cowll Mr Symon Mackenzie off Torridon Kenneth Mackenzie, younger off Torridon Alex. Mackenzie, son to Mr Symon Mackenzie off Torridon Kenneth Mackenzie in Tarvie Lachlane Mackenzie off Assint Mr Wm. Mackenzie, broyther German to ye Laird of Cowll Mr Duncan Murchison, chaplan to ye Laird of Cowll Note. — Among the names appearing here are those of David Ross of Balblair; Andrew Stronach of Little Allan; David Ross, Chief of the Clan of Ross, Laird of Balnagown (who married Lady Anna Stewart, daughter of James Earl of Moray), who died eight years later, in 1711, and was succeeded as Chief by the Laird of Pitcalnie v.'hose name is also found in this list of 1703. 140 Rossi an a. Ffodertie Paroch. Mr George Mackenzie off Ballamuchie The Laird of Davochmaluack Mr John Mackenzie Mr Rorie Mackenzie, broyr. German to Davochmaluack off Cross Kenneth Mackenzie, broyr. German to Davochmaluack John Bain in Inch Rorie John Macleod, chamberlain to ye Viscount Tarbot Kenneth Mackenzie, broyr. German to Ballamuchie. Urray Paroch. Roderick Mackenzie off Farburne Colline Mackenzie off Dunglust James Macrae off Ballnaine Murdoch Mackenzie in Brahan George Fraser in Brahan Colline Mackenzie, broyr. German to ye Laird of Farburne Win. Ffraser in Brahan John Tuach off Logie Rich John Ffraser, chamberlain to Garloch Mr Hector Mackenzie off Kinkoll George Tuach in Cribo House John Munro in Aulogourie Mr John Cameron, town elk. off Dingwall The Laird off Killiehulldrum and Ken. Mackenzie, his son Kenneth Mackenzie in Ord Thomas Mackenzie of Ord Dingwall. The Laird off Tulloch, elder Mr Kenneth Bain, son to Sir Donald Bain off Tulloch Roderick Dingwall off Ussie Donald Dingwall, late Baillie of Dingwall Donald Bayne, broyer to Knockbayn Kenneth Mackenzie, late Baillie of Dingwall The Much Hond. the Magistracy and haile Incorporation off Dingwal Donald Maclennan in Knock Coptor Urquhart and Loggie Paroch. The Laird off Culloden, younger Collin Mackenzie off Findon The Laird of Scattwall Donald Rhiach in Killbockie Mr And. Ross, minister att Crquhart Donald Simpson off Neyr. Calcraggie Alex. Simson in Fferintosh Alex. Ffraser in Fferintosh Rorie Mackenzie in Fferintosh Funeral of Hugh Munro of Teaninich. 141 Duncan Munro in Knocknairraid Robt. Alex, and John Munro in Ballnabing Alex. Mackenzie in Fferintosh Hector Urquhart in Fferintosh Killcaruaii. The Laird off Red Castle, elder and younger Mr Charles Mackenzie off Cullbo Rorie Tuiach in Red Castle Mr Andrew Junor, Governour to younger Red Castle Kilmuir Wester. The Laird off Ballmaduthy younger Captain John Macintosh off Drynie John Mackenzie in Wester Kossock The Laird off Allangrange Colline Mackenzie in Easter Kossock Suddy Paroch. The Laird off Suddy John Matheson off Bonnedgeffeild Mr Thomey Ffraser, minister in Suddy The Laird off Ballmaikduthie elder Mr Roderick Mackenzie, Muir off Avoch Hugh Baillie, Sheriff-Clerk off Ross The Laird off Drynie The Laird off Inchcultor George Graham, bailie of Ffortrose Alex. Baillie, notry pub. in Ffortrose Wm. Tolmie Baillie off Chanory The Magistrates and Incorporation off Chanory Mr George Gordon, minister off Rosemarkine John Millar, portioner off Rosenmarkney Andrew Millar off Kincurdie Alex. Gowan. son to Baillie Gowan off Rosenmarkney Alexr. Lessley off Ratherys The Laird off Kinock The Laird off Findrossie Cromcrty. Alex. Davidson, Sheriff-Clk. off Cromarty Thomas Cluies, mert. off Cromarty Alexr. Cluies off Dunskoith and Jo. Cluies, his son George Macleoud in Doubistoune George Macculloch off Ketwall Mr Thomas Macculloch, schoolmaster in Cromerty Wm. Ross. mert. in Cromerty David Macculloch of Davidstoune i_p Rossiana. Kirkmihell Paroch. The Laird off Newhall eldor David Ffraser of Main Wm. Urquhart off Braelangvvell Gilbert Barclay in Ballcherry, and his son George Macculloch, Fferytoune Thomas Urquhart, the Laird of Kinbeachie Mr David Kingtoune in St Martins Kilteam Paroch. Alexr. Munro off Killchoan And. Munro in Loamlair George Munro off Loamlair Captain John Mackenzie off Clynes John Junr, Loamlair Sir Robert Munro off Ffoulis Ffarquhar Maclean in Ardulzie Mr John Bethune off Culnaskea younger Wm. Munro off Swordoll Hector Munro off Drumond Ffarquhar Munro, tutor off Teanaird James Munro, tutor off Ardulzie Bailie Davie Rose Mr Wm. Stewart, minister John Munro off Teanrivan Ffrancis Robertson in Kiltearn, and Gilbert, Colline. James, and George Robert Douglas, and Mr Do. Bain in Teannord, and John Ffearnc- Alncs. Mr John Mackenzie in Assint Hugh Munro in Teanacraig David Munro, tutor off Ffyres Mr Jo. M'Gilligen off Alr.es Arthur Fforbes in Contullich Patrick Beaton in Cowll Mr. John Fraser, minister of Alness Mr John Munro off Cowll, Dr. of medicine Alex. MTntosh of Lealdie Donald Munro of Easter Lealdie Wm Munro off Cullcraggie Rosskin. Murdoch M'Kenzie off Ardross John Mackenzie, Broyr. german to Ardross Colline Robertson off Kindeace Wm. Robertson, younger off Kindeace George Robertson, son to Kindeace Robert Mason in Neonokill Funeral of Hugh Munro of Tcaninich. 143 Wm. Grant in Bridgend John Grant in Dallmore The Laird off Cullrayte Mr Alex Gordon, broyr. to Dallfolly Adam Gordon, broyr. German to Dallfolly Mr Wm. Gordon, his governor Wm. Dallas younger off Breachly The Laird of Newmore Walter Innes at Inverbreakig Hugh Innes younger Hugh Innes in Rosskeen Walter Innes in Braddanneish George Abernethy in Inverbreakig Colline Mackenzie off Pittlundie Mr Wm. Mackenzie, minister of Rosskeen Donald Aird in Neonakill John Aird in Kincraig Hugh Suyrland in Inverbreakie Donald Ross in the Ord of Inverbreakys H. Ross his broyr. Alex. Sword in Inverbreakie Killmuire Easter. Mr Daniell Macgilligin, minister off Killmuire The Minister of Tarbot Ranald Bayn The Laird of Knockbayne, younger and eldor John Macdonald off Knocknapark, younger Alex. Macdonald off Badie Bea Roderick Bayn off Green Hill Donald Macgoir in Tullich And. Munro in Delny George Munro in Priesthill Alex. Suyrland off Inchfure Murdoch Mackenzie, chamberlain to ye minister And. Tailler off Tarbot, Milnebuie . The Laird off Ballnagowne 1 David Ross, chief of the Clan Mr D. Fforbes, late minister off Killmuir, and his broyr. Alex. Fforbes John Munro off Loggie iThe Laird of Balnagown, in 1703, was DAVID ROSS, chief of the Clan of Ross, being thirteenth of Balnagown, son and heir to his father the 6th October, 1657, in the lands of Strathoykell, Inverchasley and others, Commissioner of Supply, Ross-shire, 1678-1685, M. P., Ross-shire, 1669-1674, Sheriff, 1689. He obtained the charter to himself and Frances Stewart of the lands and barony of Balnagown undei the Great Seal, 20th July, 16S8. He was born the 14th September, 1644, and consequently when he attended the funeral of Hugh Munro of Teaninich, in September, 1703, he was 59 years old. He died the 17th July, 1711, without issue, having married (Sasine on marriage- contract 10th April, 1666) Lady Anne Stewart, daughter of James, Earl of Moray: she died 1719. Various settlements were proposed for establishing the succession to the 144 Rossiana. Loggie Paroch. Mr Kenneth Mackenzie, minister of Loggie George Mackenzie in Blackhill Mr Robert Ross off Loggie Angus Macculloch in Drumgillie David Macculloch off Glastulich Hugh Munro in Glastulich Hugh Ross off Langwell David Ffearn in Callrossie Donald Mackenzie off L. Meddatt David Ross in Calrossie Ffearne Paroch. Win. Ross off Eastor Ffearne George Munro in Muckle Allan James Ross off Uge John Ross off Auchnacloich John Fforester off Danskoith Alexr. Fforester off Cullnanild Mr Hugh Duff, minister off Ffearne Mr John McCulloch David Ross off Ballblair And. Stronach off Little Allan Mr Wm. Cockburne off Millne Riggs Mr Alexr. Ross off Pitkery Hugh Ross off Little Tarrell Rory Ffowler, portioner off Mukle Allan Tarbal Paroch. The Laird off Ardloch Alexr. Ross off Little Tarrell Alex. Munro, Chamberlain to the Mr off Tarbot James McKenzie in Mukle Tarrole The Laird off Dumbeath Alexr. McCulloch, Chamberlain to Gordonstonne The Laird off Pitcallney The Laird off Auldie, elder and younger broad lands of Balnagown, which, bj document registered at Fortrose in 168S, consisted of forty-eight properties. Eventually it passed out of the hands of the old family to Lieutenant-General Charles Ross, of an ancient Lowland family, in nowise connected with the Earls of Ross, and finally came to Sir James Ross Lockhart, and is now in the possession of his descendant, Sir Charles Henry Augustus Frederick Ross. The Laird of Pitcalnie. in 1703, was Malcolm Ross, fifth of Pitcalnie, who, on the death of his cousin, David Ross, thirteenth of Balnagown without issue in 1711, became the male representative of the Earls of Ross of the old creation, and chief of the family. In 1706, he was Commissioner of Supply. On the 12th March, 1708, he had a charter of adjudication and resignation of his lands under the Great Seal. By Sasine 23d August, 1720, Alexander Forrester of Culnald ceded to him the quarter-lands of Annate in the Parish of Nigg. In 1721 he is styled Burgess of Tain. He married, first, in 1706, Jean, eldest daughter of Mr. James McCulloch of Piltoun. Funeral of Hugh Munro of Tcaninich. 145 Nigg Paroch. Thomas Gair, portioner off Xigg, and his son James Ross in Pittgllass David Ross in Annat James Rose, Chamberlain to Killravock And. Ross in Shandwick Alex. Gair in Nigg Ta inc. Wm. Grant off Ballkoith And. Ross off Pitteggarty The Provost of Tayne The Magistrates and Town Councill of Tayne Mr Hugh Munro, minr. off Tayne Charles Manson, Town Clerk David Ffearne off Tarloggie Rorie Dingwall off Cambusburry John Munro in Tayne Eddertoune Paroch David Ross in Eddertoune Arthur Ross his son Mr Arthur Suyrland, Muir off Eddertoune Alexr. Munro off Dahan Hector Munro, younger off Dahan Hugh Simpson and his son Mr Wm. Innas in Ffearne And. Ross off Shandwick David Ross in Airdguise Mr Hector Ffraser, minr. off Kincardine Robt. Ross Munro off Auchnagart John Munro off Inveran Hugh Munro, younger, and K. Munro, son to Inveran Wm. More off Linsed More John Munro off Little Atas John Munro in Invernauild Hector Munro in Teainleig James Ross of Knockan Wm. Munro in Auchnaluibach Local. Mr James Ffraser off Phopachy and Alexr. his son The Laird off Auchnagairne The Laird off Rilitt, eldor and younger And. Ffraser off Bannanie Inverness. Provost Duff Diggle Alexr. Duff off Drunmuire Baillie Barbour . ' 146 Rossiana. Go. Macintosh, baillie Robt. Rose, baillie Captain Alexr. Stewart Murdoch Ffeilcl Tho. Lindsay Ja. Thomson Thomas Ffraser John Locart Mr Hector Mackenzie, minister Mr Robt. Baillie John Robertson, apothecary, yr. (there) John Taillor, slir., yr. George M'Gilligen, apothecary, yr. David Stewart, mert. yr. (merchant there) David Maccay, mer, yr. John Macbean, mrt, yr. John Stewart, messgr., Inverness (messenger?) Castlehill, elder and younger, and Mr James his son John Cuthbert. Provost off Inverness David Cuthbert off Drakies The Laird off Inches And. Munro Wright MacLean, Baillie off Inverness Charles MacLean, Town Clk. off Inverness Alex. Maclean, mert., Inverness Mr John Mackintosh, advocat Mr James Maclean, Dr of medicine yr. John Maclean, mert., off Inverness Alex. Mackintosh, mert., off Inverness George Duncan, mert. yr. Alex. Dunbar of Barrmukaly James Dunbar, mert., Inverness The Magistrates and Town Councill and Incorporation off the Burgh off Inverness. Suyrland (Sutherland). Mr George Gray off Creich John Gray off Newtonne Robt. Gray off Skibow Alex. Gray off Skibow Captain Hugh Mackay off Skowly Alex. Suyrland off Mukle Torboll Mr David Suyrland off Camisavy John Munro off Rogard Mr Robt. off Sallach Sir John Gordon off Enbow Wm. Suyrland off Ham W. U., F. S. A. SCOT. WITCHCRAFT IN SCOTLAND. [From Narratives of Sorcery and Magic, by Thomas Wright, Esqre., M, A., F. S. A., Etc., Member of the National Institute of France.] r t* I 1 HE next case, or rather cases of witchcraft in the Scottish annals, is of more fearful and more criminal character than either of the preceding. The chief persons implicated were Katherine Munro, Lady Fowlis, wife of the chief of the clan of Munro, and Hector Munro, the son of the baron of Fowlis by a former wife. The Lady Fowlis was by birth Katharine Ross of Balnagown ; and in consequence of family quarrels and intrigues, she had laid a plot to make away with Robert Munro, her husband's eldest son, in order that his widow might be married to her brother George Ross, laird of Balnagown, preparatory to which it was also necessary to effect the death of the young Lady Balnagown. The open manner in which the pro- ceedings of Lady Fowlis were caried on, affords a remarkable picture of the barbarous state of society among the Scottish clans at this period. Among her chief agents were Agnes Ross, Christian Ross and Major Neyne MacAlester, the latter better known by the name of Loskie Loncart, and all three described as "notorious witches:" another active individual was named William McGillevorddine, and there were a number of other sub- ordinate persons of very equivocal character. As early as the midsummer of 1576, it appears from the trial that Agnes Ross was sent to bring Loskie Loncart to consult with Lady Fowlis, who was advised " to go into the hills to speak with the elf-folk," and learn from them if Robert Munro and Lady Balnagown would die, and if the laird of the Balnagown would marry Robert's widow; and about the same time, these two women made clay images of the two individuals who were to die, for the purpose of bewitching them. Poison was also adopted as a surer means of securing their victims, and the cook of the laird of Balnagown was bribed to their interests. The deadly ingredients were obtained by William MacGillvorddin, at Aberdeen, under pretense of buying poison for rats; it was administered by the cook just mentioned, in a dish sent to the Lady Balnagown's table, and another accomplice, who was present, declared " that it was the sairest and maist cruell sicht that evir sho saw seing the vomit and the vexacioun that was on the young Lady Balnagown and hir company." However, although the victim was thrown into a miserable and long-lasting illness, the poison did not produce immediate death, as was expected. From various points in the accusation, it appears that the conspirators were actively employed in devising means of effecting their purpose from the period mentioned above till the Easter of the following year, by which time the deadly designs of the Lady Fowlis had become much more comprehensive, and she aimed at no less than the destruction of all the former family of her husband, that their inheritance might fall to her own children. In May, I577- William McGillevordin was asked to procure a greater quantity of poison, the 148 Rossi ana. preceding dose having been insufficient; but he refused unless her brother, the laird of Balnagown, were made privy to it, a difficulty which was soon got over, and it appears that the laird was, to a certain degree, acquainted with the proceedings. A potion of a much more deadly character was now prepared, and two individuals, the nurse of the Lady Fowlis and a boy, were killed by accidentally tasting of it; but we are not told if any of the intended victims fell a sacrifice. The conspirators had now again recourse to witchcraft, and in June, 1577, a man obtained for the Lady Fowlis an " elf arrow-head," for which she gave him four shillings. The " elf arrow- head " was nothing more than one of those small rude weapons of flint belonging to a primeval state of society which are often met with in turning up the soil, and which the superstitious peasantry of various countries have looked upon as the offensive arms of fairies and witches. On the second and sixth of July Lady Fowlis and her accomplices held two secret meetings; at the first they made an image of butter to represent Robert Munro, and. having placed it against the wall of the chamber, Loskie Loncart shot at it eight times with the elf arrow-head, but always missed it; and at the second meeting they made a figure of clay to represent the same person at which Loskie shot twelve times, but with no better success in spite of all their incantations. This seems to have been a source of superstitious feeling, and this ceremony was to have insured Robert Munro's great disappointment, for they had brought fine linen cloth, in which the figures, if struck by the elf arrow-head, were to have been wrapped, and so buried in the earth at a place which seems to have been consecrated by death. In August another elf arrow-head was obtained, and towards Hallowmass another meeting was held, and two figures of clay made, one for Robert Munro and the other for the lady; Lady Fowlis shot two shots at Lady Balnagown and Loskie Loncart shot three at Robert Munro. but neither of them were successful, and the two images were accidentally broken, and thus the charm was destroyed. They now prepared to try poison again, but Christiane Ross, who had been present at the last meeting, was arrested towards the end of November, and, being put to the torture, made a full confession, which was followed by the seizure of some of her accomplices, several of whom, as well as Christiane Ross, were " convicted and burnt." The Lady Fowlis fled to Caithness, and remained there nine months, after which she was allowed to return to her home. Her husband died in 1588, and was succeeded by Robert Munro, who appears to have revived the old charge of witchcraft against his stepmother, for in 1589 he obtained a commission for the examination of witches, among whose names were those of Lady Fowlis and some of her surviving accomplices. She appears to have warded off the danger by her influence and money for some months, until July 22, 1590, when she was brought to her trial, her accuser being Hector Munro. This trial offered one of the first instances of acquittal of the charge of sorcery, and it has been observed that there are reasons for thinking the case was brought before a jury packed for that purpose. It is somewhat remarkable that while the Lady Fowlis was thus attempting the destruction of her stepchildren, they were trying to effect, by the same means, the death of her own son. Immediately after her Witchcraft in Scotland. 149 acquittal, on the same day, the 226. of July, 1590, Hector Munro (her accuser) was put on his trial before a jury composed of nearly the same persons, for practicing the same crime of sorcery. It is stated in the charge that, when his brother Robert Munro had been grievously ill in the summer of 1588. Hector Munro had assembled "three notorious and common witches," to devise means to cure him, and had given harbour to them several days, until he was compelled to dismiss them by his father, who threatened to apprehend them. Subsequent to this, in January, 1588 (i. e., 1589, according to the modern reckoning), Hector became himself suddenly ill, upon which he sent one of his men to seek a woman named Marion Maclngaruch " one of the maist notorious and rank witches in all this redline," and she was brought to the house in which he was lying sick. After long consultation and having given him " three drinks of water out of three stones which she had," she declared that there was no remedy for him unless the principal man of his blood should suffer death for him. They then held further counsel and came at last to the conclusion that the person who must be his substitute was George Munro, the eldest son of the Lady Fowlis, whose trial has just been described. The ceremonies which followed are some of the most extraordinary. A VISIT TO BALBLAIR AND BALNAGOWN CASTLE. MANY years ago I visited Balblair and Balnagown Castle, the ancient seat of my ancestors, and also the chief of the clan, Mr. Ross of Pitcalnie. At Balnagown Castle Lady Ross took me all over the house and was most kind in inviting me to dinner. The Duchess of Sutherland, the friend of Queen Victoria, invited me to come and spend ten days at Dunrobin Castle, one of the most beautiful places in all Scotland. 1 he Duchess of Sutherland was then one of the most charming and beautiful women in the United Kingdom. Her grace and loveliness were noted. She was also a descendant of the Earls of Ross, and very proud she was of that de- scent. My father was a great friend of Her Grace and was on inti- mate terms with both her husband, the Duke, and herself. He spent many happy hours at Dunrobin. I was unfortunately un- able to go as I was called back to America by the death of my mother's father. I have a number of photographs of the Duchess, all signed with her name. which she gave to my father at dif- ferent times. Perhaps it may not be out of place to tell a little story in regard to one of these photographs. It was framed in an ornamental frame of wood and stood on the mantel in the guest room in my house in Albany. In that room had hung the portrait of the famous Hon. John Ross, Royal Attorney- General, and it had been removed only a short time before to place it along Duchess of Sutherland. A Visit to Balblair and Balnagozcn Castle. 151 with that of his daughter, Mrs. Captain Gurney, in the drawing-room downstairs. One night a young cousin of ours. Miss Julia Ross Potter, who was a direct descendant of the Ross family, was awakened by some one moving in this room where she had been sleeping, and as if the person had been startled by something and had let the picture slip from between his fingers, there was a slight crash and all was silent. Miss Potter sprang out of bed, lighted the light and found, to her dismay, that the photograph of the Duchess of Sutherland had fallen near her bed, which was on the other side of the room, and that the frame was in pieces. The most extraordinary thing about it all was that the photograph leaned against the wall and something had been put in front of it to prevent its falling. It was abso- lutely impossible for it to have fallen without something moving it. It was in the year A. D. 1881 I had walked from the city of Tain, w r here I was stopping at the Ross Arms, to Balblair, the seat of my ancestors, the Ross's. There I found a new, large and comfortable house that a few years before had taken the place of the original picturesque and rambling manor house, with its pepper-box tower and coat of arms carved over the door. Mr. James Ross, a member of the clan, received me with great kind- ness and showed me all over the place and took me to the famous Daan house, now a peasant's dwelling. Towards evening we rambled back to the house at Balblair and were received by the charming lady who did the hospitalities of Mr. Ross' mansion. Many of the gentry came to dinner that night, and we sat over our cigars and whiskey (at least they did, for I only could take sherry in those days) and amusing stories were told, and the laugh went around the board as the evening grew older. At about eleven o'clock I arose to say good-night, for I had a long walk before me. They all came down to the gate to say good-bye, and with many a kindly word from each and all I left them. For a part of the way the road ran between a wood and an arm of the sea, and. in deed, the waves were not far away from the side of the road away from the wood. It was a sad, solemn night. Even- little while the moon would come out of the clouds for a moment and then half go back. I had walked about a quarter of that part of the road which ran between the wood and the sea when I stopped, my blood frozen in my veins, my hair standing on end, for there, about one hundred feet away from me, stood a figure of white light, the figure of a man, which looked at me and flickered like a gas light. I tried to advance ; I could not do so ; a great horror and fear was upon me. I said a silent prayer and took a pin that I happened to have with me and stuck it into my leg. The figure continued to flicker in the middle of the road. I could not go back to Balblair and have all those great, strong men laugh at me, and I could not advance upon this awful thing in the road. Suddenly an old nurse's tale of how at the sign of the cross all evil must give way came into my brain. No sooner thought than done, with a look of determination I advanced upon the horror in the road, and, as I came up to it, I made the sign of the cross and the figure went out as a gas light does when you turn it out. I crossed the place where it had stood, and after a moment or two was again taken with the strange fright, and, looking 15-2 Rossi a n a. back, saw the figure standing, now turned the other way. looking at me. I then lost all courage and took to my heels and ran as hard as I could for the good city of Tain, and I can yet remember the feeling of relief when I saw the light in the first house on the outskirts of the town. Gratitude is too mild a word to use to explain my feelings when I at last saw at the end of the street the old painted sign with the Arms of Ross upon it that hung over the door of my inn. What was this figure? Was it the result of acute indigestion, the play of the imagination and the shadows cast by the moon and clouds, or was it truly the spirit of old David Ross, who, during his life, had often walked over this road, who had come to warn me? I know not what it was. I only know that a day or so after I received a despatch telling me that I must return to America as my mother's father was dying. H. P. R. Descendants of the Earls of Ross in America. . - - (J* REV. GEORGE ROSS, M. A. REV. GEORGE ROSS (igye. in Ross Chart) was the second son of David Ross of Balblair (197b), and his descent from the ancient Earls of Ross is clearly traced through five generations of the Earls, four generations of the noble house of Balnagown, one generation of the house of Shandwick, five generations of the branch of Bahnachy and two generations of the branch of Balblair. He was born at Balblair in 1679, and was educated for the Presbyterian ministry, but left that denomination and took orders in the Church of England. He came to America in 1703 as a missionary of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts, locating at Newcastle, Del. He soon rose to prominence, becoming one of the pillars of the Episcopal church in the American colonies, and acting as chaplain to several of the proprietary governors of Pennsylvania. He married, first, Joanna Williams, of Rhode Island, by whom he had six children. She died September 29, 1726. act. 36. Her tomb, near the eastern gable of Emmanuel Church, bears this inscription : " Memor vertutum Johanna? conjugis, honesto genere natal, hoc sepulchrae monumentum maritus georgius Ross, Ev : Angelii praeco, extreundum curiast anno acquivit ilia aebatis trigesimo Septimo, 29 Sept., 1726. Dixit ei Jesus. Quisquis vivit et credit in me 11011 morietur in eternam. Calcanda semel via lethi." Rev. George Ross married, secondly, Catherine Van Gezel. of New Castle, by whom he had SEven children, among them Colonel George Ross ( 1730-1770). a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and Gertrude Ross, who married, first, Isaac Till, and, secondly, Hon. George Read, of New Castle, also a signer of the Declaration of Independence, thus connecting the two ancient families of Ross and Read. Rev. George Ross died at Newcastle, Del. in 1754. DESCENT OF REV. GEORGE ROSS FROM THE ANCIENT EARLS OF ROSS. The descent of Rev. George Ross, of New Castle, Delaware, from the ancient Earls of Ross, is contained in the following abstract (the black-face figures having reference to the Key Chart of the Ross family shown elsewhere) : 1. Malcolm, first Earl of Ross. (See "Earls of Ross," page 1). 2. Ferquhard, second Earl of Ross. He had — 3. William, third Earl of Ross, who married Jean, daughter of William Comyn, Earl of Buchan, by whom he had — 4. William, fourth Earl of Ross, married Euphemia , and had — 5. Hugh, fifth Earl of Ross, married (1308), first, Lady Maude Bruce, sister of the King, and, secondly, Margaret, daughter of Sir David Graham, of Old Montrose. The Earldom descended to Hugh's son William by his first wife. Hugh's son Hugh became — 156 Rossiana. 8. Hugh Ross, 1 of Rarichies, first Laird of Balnagown, who married Margaret de Barclay, and had — 9. William, second of Balnagown, who married Christian, daughter of Lord Livingstone. Their son and heir was — 10. Walter, third of Balnagown. He married Katherine, daughter of Paul McTyre, and had — 11. Hugh, fourth of Balnagown, who married Janet, daughter of the Earl of Sutherland. The succession of Balnagown passed to their son, John, fifth of Balnagown, while their son William, who married Greizel McDonald, became the father of — 143. Walter, 2 first of Shandwick, who married five wives, the first of whom, Janet Tulloch, is said to have been the mother of his sons. The line of Shandwick passed to Walter's first son, Donald, who became second of Shandwick. W'alter's third son became — 191. Hugh. 3 first of Balmachy, or Balla-Muckie. His son — 192. Donald, second of Balmachy, married Margaret Innes. He had — 193. Walter, third of Balmachy, who married, as second wife, Jean Douglas. He had — 194. Hugh, fourth of Balmachy, who married Katherine Macleod, and had — 195. George, fifth of Balmachy, who married Margaret McCulloch. The line of Balmachy passed to Walter, their eldest son, as sixth of Balmachy- Andrew, second son of George, became — 197a. Andrew, 4 first of Balblair. He had — 197b. David, second of Balblair, who married Margaret Stronach, and had three sons, Andrew, George and Hugh, the second of whom was — 197e. Rev. George Ross, of New Castle, Delaware. AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF REV. GEORGE ROSS, M. A. The following autobiography of the Rev. George Ross, with the letter pre- fixed to it, was copied in 1835, by William Thompson Read, grandson of George Read, the " Signer," from an ancient manuscript (itself a copy) in the possession of his brother. George Read (3d), of Delaware, the words contained between brackets, thus [ ], having been supplied by him, as suggested by the context : Letter from Rev. George Ross to His Son, John Ross, Esq. My very good son — You have, inclosed, an answer to your repeated request, wherein you may observe the easy and regular steps [by which] Providence conducted me to settle in this country. If my posterity contract 1 See " Line of Balnagown," page 8. 2 See " Line of Shandwick," page 31. 3 See " Branch of Balmachy," page 40. 4 See " Branch of Balblair," page 44. Autobiography of Rev. George Ross. 157 any blemish, it must be from themselves ; no original gulf can be imputed to them. It is well the rise of many families in these parts, like the head of the Nile, is unknown, and their glory consists in their obscurity. It is your satisfaction that it is otherwise with you ; your escutcheon is without blot or stain. Contend, therefore, for the honor of your family by a kind and generous behavior toward the several branches of it, relieve them from contempt by your beneficence, and put them above the world by exercising that ability towards them which God has blessed you with, which, if you do, God will gather you, in His good time, to your honest and worthy progenitors. I have a quick sense of your filial favors, and you may be assured, dear son, that I am your most obliged and affectionate father, George Ross. John Ross, Esquire. Autobiography. George Ross, Rector [as he is styled in his presentation], of the Church in New Castle, was second son that came to man's estate of David Ross, of Balblair, a gentleman of moderate fortune, but of great integrity, born in the north of Scotland, in the Shire of Ross, in the Parish of Tain [near the town of Tain], about four or five miles [from that part of] the shire between two firths, the one the Firth of Murray, and the other the Firth of Dornoch. The land lying between the two firths terminates in a noted point called Tarbatness. He was put to school very early, and made some progress in the Latin tongue under the care of the schoolmaster [in Tain], and, being of a promising genius, his father asked him, as they were going to a farm a little distance from home: "What would he be?" To which he answered: "A scholar," young as he was, credonis pcrationc. "A scholar you shall be," replied his father. When he was about fourteen years of age his eldest brother Andrew requested his father to send him to him at Edinburgh. Accordingly he was sent, but for the first twelve months little to his advan- tage, for instead of advancing him in his learning he made him attend his office and write from morning till night, often without his dinner — to his great disappointment, not through want of affection to his brother — but hurry of business and much company. His father, being informed of this low or no education, ordered him to be put to school and fitted for the university. Andrew lost his slave, and George was once more put in the way of being a scholar. He took his degree of master of arts in Edinburgh in 1700. With this feather in his cap he returned home and became tutor to the Lord of May, his son, for which [tutorship] he was allowed ten pounds sterling per .annum — great wages in that part of the world and at that time of day. [Having some] cash of his own, and somewhat anxious to see Edinburgh again, and taking [leave of his father] the [last time he ever saw him], not without some coolness on the son's side, for that the father did not add weight enough to his blessing, as the son expected — and even at that time he was not without the thought of foreign countries. I say, taking leave of his father, he proceeded on his journey to Edinburgh, and there entered his name among the students of divinity, worthy Mr. Meldrum being the professor. There was great hope of seeing worthy Mr. George mount the Presbyterian pulpit ; but, helas ! the closer he applied himself to reading, 158 Rossiana. the stronger his aversion grew to the party then uppermost in Scotland. He observed the leading men of that side to be some conscientious and hypo- critical. He could not digest the ministers' odd gestures, grimaces, dry mouths and screwed faces in their pulpits. He could not comply with their practices even to save him from want of bread. Their " horrible decretum [as Calvin, the author of it, calls it] of reprobation," gave him a surfeit of their principles, and as to their church government, he was satisfied it was a spurious brat [the genuine product of Core's rebellion] of proud Presbyters [revolting] against their lawful bishops. While he passed among the students for an orthodox brother, he was diligently informing himself of the principles of the Church of England, which [he] approved of so well that he was resolved, as soon as he could find encouragement, to set out for England. Mr. Thomas McKenzie, Chap- lain to the Earl of Cromarty, Secretary of State for Scotland, was then at London, to whom he wrote on this subject. Mr. McKenzie [being of the same way of thinking, answered that] he might depend upon [being pro- vided for] during the war. " the least," says he, " you can expect." Mr. McKenzie's letter he communicated to his brother, who, upon mature deliber- ation with some of the leading men of the Episcopal party in Scotland, procured him a bill of exch inge for £18 us. gd. sterling. Thus strengthened and provided, and honored with a recommendation from the Bishop of Edinburgh, then ousted by the revolution, he bid adieu to his native country [after suffering much in the flesh by college diet among a set of canting Pharisees] and went to London, who received him very kindly and ordered him to attend the next ordination, at which he and his friend, McKenzie, with several other candidates, were put in deacon's orders. This happened nine days after his arrival at London, which proved no small mortification to the [dominant] party in Edinburgh and triumph to those of the contrary party. He was soon promoted to a chaplaincy of eighty pounds sterling [per annum] on board a man-of-war. But the captain, being a haughty fellow, he soon grew sick of that station, and resolved to quit it as soon as he could be provided for. Returning to London, he found his friend McKenzie making application to the Society for Propagating the Gospel in Foreign Parts, then newly incorporated, for a mission. He was easily prevailed [upon] to join him in so commendable a design. Upon the Society's being satisfied, after full trial of their character and abilities, they were both admitted mission- aries : McKenzie for Staten Island, and Ross for New Castle, who arrived there in 1703 [and continued], save for a few years, when he removed for his health's sake, till this time, being in his seventy-third year. How he behaved is known from the constant regard [of the Society for him]. George Ross. lO t^~ T—\ OS r-~ zo — ( 1 1 w O 'A < & a « ►4 W < o PS c* — O O w 01 o 01 c « > Q w p< > P to o o r/5 fc U o Q W o W O Pi O w > P4 u h -a K "3 *- < £« a .S X 1st— Rev. Hack 2d- Rev. Curr 8 II s t"2.2 z « g « 03 (S o o o > w Q cs Si II, 00 W O I s J SI OS O o o o O o Descendants of Rev. George Ross. 159 DESCENDANTS OF REV. GEORGE ROSS. Rev. George Ross, by his first wife. Joanna Williams, of Rhode Island, had the following children : J l. David, 2 rector of St. Peter's Church at Albany, N. Y., where he had been a Church of England Missionary. He married , and left a son, John. 2. Margaret, married, first, Rev. Walter Hackett, Rector at Appoquin- ing, who was born in Frasersburg, in Banff, a province of Scot- land, and was descended from the ancient and respectable family of Hackett. He died March 7, 1733, aged 33 years. His tomb is in Emmanuel Church burying ground, near the monument of his mother-in-law, Mrs. George Ross. (See monumental inscription above.) Margaret Ross married, second, the Rev. Mr. Currie, of Philadelphia. She was born in 1747; died 20th August, 1766. Had issue. 3. Hon. John Ross, Attorney-General of Delaware, under the Crown, was the most eminent lawyer of his day in Philadelphia. Was baptized at Emmanuel Church, Newcastle, Del., October 21, 1714; died 8th May, 1776. Hon. John Ross married Elizabeth Morgan, daughter of Benjamin Morgan, gentleman, of Philadelphia, De- cember 28. 1731, at Christ Chureh, Philadelphia. She died 7th October, 1776, and was buried in St. Paul's Church, Philadelphia. They had — (1.) Elizabeth, born 2d May, 1740; died 13th August, 1741. (2.) Margaret, born , 1747; died 20th August, 1766. (3-) Catherine, born 21st July, 1748; died s. p. 27th August, 1782, having married Captain Henry Gurney, an officer in the British army. (The above dates are from the Bible of John Ross, now in the possession of General J. Meredith Read.) •*• /Eneas, rector of the English Church at Oxford, Penn., became rector of Emmanuel Church, Newcastle, in 1758; baptized there 17th October. 1716; died there in 1782, having married Sarah Leach, by whom he had an only daughter, Joanna, who married, by license, 13th October, 1775, Captain Thomas Hol- land, an English officer, killed at the battle of Germantown, s. p. 5- Anne, baptized 14th August, 1719 ; married Jasper Yeates, and had a son, John, baptized 16th May, 1798. 6. Jacob, married Jane Sayre. Their children were: John, baptized October 31, 1758, aged two weeks; James, baptized March 8, 1 76 1, aged one year and one month. iThe black face figures refer to the Chart of the Descendants of Rev. George Ross, herewith. 2The Rev. Walton \V. Battershall, D. D., the present rector of St. Peter's Church, however, believes that he was not the rector of the church, but took the place of the rector. There is no doubt whatever that he was the only clergyman in charge of the church at the time of his death. He was, like his father, a man of great learning. 160 Rossiana. Rev. George Ross, by his second wife, Catherine Van Gezel, had seven children, as follows : 7. Colonel George Ross (born 1730; died July 16, 1779). was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and lived in Lan- caster. Pa. He married Ann Lawler, a Scotch lady, and had three children — George, James and Mary. (See Descendants of George Ross, the " Signer," post.) 8. Gertrude (died September, 1802) ; married, first, Isaac Till, and, secondly, on January 11. 1763, Hon. George Read, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and who was United States Senator, Chief Justice of Delaware, and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty. He was born in Cecil county. Maryland, December 17, 1733, and was descended from the old family of Read of Ipsden, in Oxfordshire. Gertrude Ross, by George Read, had three sons — George. William and John. (See Descendants of Colonel John Read, post.) 9. Catherine (died 1809) ; married Brigadier-General William Thompson, one of Washington's aides-de-camp. Had issue. 10. Elizabeth ; married Colonel Edward Biddle, June 26, 1761. Had issue. 11. Susanna; married Rev. William Thompson, of Maryland. Had issue. 12. Mary; married Mark Bird. January 6. 1763. Had issue. 13. James ; married Eleanor . Had issue. LIST OF ROSS PORTRAITS. Appended is a list of Ross portraits known to be in existence. The descriptions were written many years ago by General Meredith Read, who made a careful study of each : 1. Rev. George Ross, painted in wig. gown and band, seated with an open volume before him, doubtless the blessed gospel of which he was so able and faithful a minister. The face is oval, eyes hazel, complexion florid, features regular and sufficiently strong to indicate the intelli- gence and energy which were certainly his. without the occasional harshness of the Scottish physiognomy. The gravity expressed by the countenance seems to have been from a sense of the sacredness and dignity of his profession, superimposed over a natural hilarity of temper and humorousness which lurk under it, and over which it with difficulty holds the mastery. It does not appear by this picture when and by whom it was executed, but, as it represents Mr. Ross of about middle age, it must be at least 170 years old. It is in a good state of preservation and well painted. It hangs in the mansion of Mrs. Major Reeves and Miss Emily Read at Newcastle, Del. 2. Hon. John Ross, son of Rev. George Ross. This portrait is a fine specimen of the work of Alexander, a famous Scotch artist, who made a tour through the Southern States, and was afterward first master of Gilbert Stuart. It represents a gentleman of full face, regular Note. — The portraits of Gertrude Ross, Hon. John Ross and Mrs. Captain Gurney are now (1908) in possession of the author. Descendants of Rev. George Ross. 161 features, hazel eyes, black velvet costume, with a full bag wig, seated in his library in an arm chair similar to those which were in the library of General Meredith Read. This portrait bears date 1766 and is now in possession of General Read. 3. Elizabeth Morgan, wife of Hon. John Ross (b. 1714; d. Oct. 7, 1776, aged 62). This is also an excellent specimen of Alexander's art, the lace and hands being particularly well painted. Mrs. Ross has an oval countenance, with regular features, dark liquid eyes and rich com- plexion. This portrait bears date of 1766, and is in possession of General Meredith Read. 4. Catherine Ross (b. 1748; d. Aug. 27. 1782. aged 34), daughter of Hon. John Ross and wife of Captain Gurney. She is arrayed in a white satin court dress with large pearl pendants, and was painted when she was quite young. She is thinking perchance of her birds, her lover, or her flowers, and unconsciously touches the keys of the harpsichord by which she is standing. This picture and the preceding ones were hanging in the family mansion in Philadelphia when it was occupied by British officers during the Revolution, who hung their swords upon the carved frames and unintentionally scraped, without really damaging, the canvas, and the marks are to be seen to this day. The portrait of Mrs. Gurney hung in the mansion of the late Chief Justice John Meredith Read at Philadelphia, over the high mantel-piece, in a great bedroom occupied by his young son, afterwards General Meredith Read. On one occasion, the servant having neglected to close the blinds, and a terrific thunderstorm hav- ing arisen in the night, the little child was awakened by the lightning playing across the white figure on the canvas, and it seemed to his frightened imagination that this relative, so long dead, was stepping down from the frame and advancing toward him. The impression remained to the day of his death. This portrait, dated 1776, is also in possession of General Meredith Read. 5. Gertrude Ross, wife of George Read, the " Signer." Painted by an unknown artist. She has an oval face, dark eyes and blonde hair, and is dressed in the fashion of the day, a rich blue brocade costume, with jeweled ornaments. This portrait was formerly in possession of General Meredith Read. 6. Margaretta Ross, daughter of Hon. John Ross. The portrait shows a comely girl, with hair as dark as the raven's wing and eyes of the deepest blue, and the figure points to an urn with this inscription, '* Margaretta Ross, obiit 20 Aug. 1766. Ae. 19. Si queris animam meam, respice coelum si forman en est." CORRESPONDENCE. Extracts from Letters Relating to the Descendants of Rev. George Ross. Mr. Francis Nevfle Reid wrote to his distant kinsman through the Ross family. General Meredith Read, from Minori, per Ravello, Province of Salerno. Italy, February' 12. 1892: " I am writing for the Scottish Antiquary, or Northern Notes and Queries, an account of the family of Ross, and the families descended from them. Among these families is Ross of Balblair, your ancestors. " Mrs. David G. Eshleman, of Newcastle, Penn., has greatly helped me. Thus, the descendants of the second marriage of George Ross, who went to Lancaster in 1705, are all in the pedigree, where your name appears. Of the first marriage of George Ross with Joanna Williams of Rhode Island, I can only learn that there were nine children, of whom some of the descend- ants are living in Delaware. I am anxious to obtain some information about them, especially if there is any male representative of this branch." J 1 62 Rossi a 11 a. General Meredith Read replied on the 16th February, 1892, and, among other things, said: " As to the descendants of the first marriage of George Ross with Joanna Williams, I think it will be difficult to trace many of them. " Here is an extract from the family bible of the eldest, the Honourable John Ross, of Philadelphia, Attorney-General under the Crown: 'John Ross, Esquire, of Philadelphia, son of the Rev. George Ross, rector of the Church of Newcastle, on Delaware, was solemnly married to Mrs. Elizabeth Morgan, of Philadelphia, eldest daughter of Mr. Benjamin Morgan, of Philadelphia, gentleman, on the 18th day of December, 1735, by the Rev. Mr. Archibald Cummings, Commissary and Rector of Christ Church. Phila- delphia.' Their children were: " Elizabeth Ross, born May 2, 1740: died August 13, 1741. " Margaret Ross, born 25, 1747; died August 20, 1766. " Catherine, born July 21, 1748: died August 27, 1782: married Henry Gurney, Esquire, of Philadelphia, late of the British Army, who served in the German wars in the middle of the eighteenth century. " Captain Gurney's bookplate is in the family bible of John Ross, Esquire, which bible was published at Oxford, by John Basket, in 1727. John Ross, Esquire, was born in 1714, and died at the opening of the American Revolu- tion. There are no descendants living." Mr. Nevile Reid replied on the 23d February, 1892: "• I am exceedingly obliged to you for the kind answer to my letter, and for the extracts from John Ross' bible. On a separate paper I note what I know about the first and second families of the Rev. George Ross, who went to Newcastle. In both accounts it is stated that John Ross married Elizabeth Ashe, whereas, from the bible, his wife's name is Elizabeth Morgan, which must be correct. I am anxious to learn whether there is any male represen- tative of the first marriage of the Rev. George Ross. Of the second there is but one, George Ross, an old man. Unless there is some male of the first family, I am afraid the old branch of Balblair. like so many of the Ross families, will soon be extinct. May I ask you two other favours: will you give me your descent, and from whom is' General Edward Burd Grubb descended? From a daughter of the Rev. George Ross, who married the Rev. W. Thompson, of Mary- land? Balblair descends from Balmachy. or Ballamuckie, this from Shand- wick, and this from Balnagown. I descend from Mary Ross of Shandwick, from whom this property came into my family, and is now owned by my nephew, my elder brother's son. With regard to the family name of Stronach, it seems to be the same as the word Stron-'each (Stronfitheach)." In Black's Guide to Scotland, page 561, we find the following: " Shieldaig derives a considerable amount of natural beauty from the charming wooded isle which lies in the bay, the strange looking craig of Stron-'each (Stronfitheach). so named from its resemblance to the beak of the raven, at the base of which the village is situated, and the distant table- land of Gairloch stretching out into the sea. Edmund H. Bell, of Philadelphia, to General Meredith Read. Chestnut Hill, Philada, Nov. 28th, 1893. My dear Sir: — I beg to acknowledge receipt of your valued favor of 7th inst. and your kindness tempts me to trespass further on your time. I think I have suc- ceeded in locating the thirteen children of Rev. George Ross, and some of their children, but as to their ages and relative position I am considerably puzzled, as I cannot get dates of birth. I am inclined to arrange them as follows: Descendants of Rev. George Ross. 163 Children of Rev. George Ross and Joanna Williams. 1. David: b. . d. . m. . Had issue. 2. Margaret: b. , d. ; m.. 1st. Rev. Walter Hackett: m., 2nd, Rev. William Currie. Had issue. 3. John: b. 1714: d. May 8th. 1776; m. Dec. 28th. 1735. Elizabeth Morgan. Had issue. 4. Aeneas: b. Sept. 17th. 1716; d. bet. 9th and 29th of April, 1783; m. Jany. 3, 1745, Sarah Leech. Had issue. 5. Anne: b. 1719: d. ; m. , Jasper Yeates. 6. Jacob: b. , d. ; m. April 10th. 1755, Jane Sayre. Had issue. Children of Rev. George Ross and Catherine J 'an Gezel. 1 7. George: b. 1730: d. July 16th, 1779; m. Aug. 17th, 1751, Ann Lawler. Had issue. 8. Gertrude: b. . d. Sept.. 1802: m., 1st, , I. Till; m., 2nd, Jany. nth. 1763. George Read. Had issue. 9. Catharine: b. , d. Dec, 1809: m. , Genl. William Thomp- son. Had issue. 10. Elizabeth: b. , d. ; m. June 26th, 1761, Col. Edw. Biddle. Had issue. 11. Susanna: b. . d. ; m. , Rev. William Thompson. Had issue. 12. Mary: b. , d. : m. Jany. 6th. 1763, Mark Bird. Had issue. 13. James: b. , d. ; m. Eleanor. Had issue. George, Gertrude and Catharine, I am sure, were the children of Catharine Van Gezel, and I believe Elizabeth and Mary were, but I don't feel sure about either Susanna or James, although some information I have indicates they were. You will note the order in which I have placed the children of Joanna Williams, and, as this does not exactly agree with your views as expressed in your letter to Mr. Francis Nevile Reid, permit me to explain my reasons : First. Mr. William T. Read, in his " Life of George Read," page 62, in referring to portrait No. 10, says : " John, son of Mr. Ross' eldest son David." Second. We know from records of Immanuel Church, John', son of Rev. George Ross, was baptized as an infant Oct. 21st, 1714, and that Aenaes was born Sept. 17th, 1716, an interval of less than two years, and it is, there- fore, most unlikely a child was born between. Third. David was the name of Rev. George Ross's father, and it is fair to presume he named his first son after him. As to Margaret : Her first husband, Walter Hackett, according to records of Immanuel Church, died March. 7th, 1793, leaving her a widow with two children, and she must certainly at that time have been 20 years old, which would make her birth antedate John's. Mr. Francis Xevile Reid, in one of his letters, gave the name of Rev. George Ross's mother as Margaret Stronack, so that he called his first daughter after his mother. Dr. Jacob Ross : Appears in the records of Immanuel Church, in 1758, as a vestryman, and. I conclude, must have been at this time well past his youth. Joanna Williams is said to have had a brother, Jacob, another reason for thinking Jacob her son. Jacob Ross was a practicing physician as early as 1752. (See letter of Rev George Ross to I. Till, " Life of George Read," p. 60.) 'Van Gezel Arms — Azure three boys' heads affrontee proper, on the head of each a cap argen*. Crest — A head as in the arms between two wings displayed azure. 164 Rossiana. Will you do me the favor to inform me what you think of my deductions and supply any dates, etc., you have which will assist in completing my record. I have now. I think, a complete list of the children of the following of the Rosses : John. George. Catharine and Elizabeth. I have children of Gertrude by George Read, but do not know if she had children by Till, her first husband, or not. I have an account of three children of James, one of Mary, one of Susanna, two of Margaret (without their names), four of Aeneas, one of David and two of Jacob. As to Anne, I know nothing beyond the fact she is said to have married John Yeates. This letter will give you some idea of the present condition of my work, and. if it contains any information not before in your possession, I am most happy to have been of some service. Very sincerely yours, Edmund H. Bell. To Gen. John Meredith Read, Paris. France. ADDITIONAL PAPERS. The appended document, fn a handwriting unknown to the author, is to be found among the Read archives in the Ross book. It is inserted here, as there are many things of interest given in it: [From Notes sent me by Gen. Read.] .Miss Katherine van Gezel, a descendant of Gerrit van Gezel, nephew of Governor Alrichs, who on the rst March. 1057, embarked tor New Amster- dam; igth December, 1656, the Directors of the W. India Comp. transferred to the Burgomaster of Amsterdam all the land from Christian Creek to Bombay Hook. '1 lie tracing of the signature of David Ross is from a family Bible published 1696. In 1760 Honorable John Ross was one of the founders of St. Paul's church, Philadelphia, and is buried in it. Mrs. Marcia G. Ross, widow of David Ross, grandson of Rev. George. John Ross, son of Rev. George, was baptized October 21, 1714. (Register, Emmanuel Church, Newcastle, Delaware.) Rev. George Ross was second son who grew up of David Ross of Balblair and Margaret his wife. John Ross died May 5. 1776, aged 61 ; his wife, October 7, 1776, aged 62. Catherine, wife of Captain Gurney, died August 27, 1782, aged 34. Rev. David Ross, missionary of the Church of England, Albany, New York, died there ; he had a son, John. In the Register of Marriages, Emmanuel Church, appears the following: George Read, , 1763, to Gertrude, daughter of Rev. George Ross, by his second wife. George Ross, the " Signer," had a son, Colonel James. Rev. William Thomson, of Maryland, married a daughter of Mr. George Ross by his second wife. Rev. Aeneas Ross, son of Rev. George Ross, was rector of the English church at Oxford, Pa. ; was appointed rector of Emmanuel Church, Newcastle, in 1758, and died there in 1782. Hon. George Ross, Royal Attorney-General. 165 Query Answered. Query — -George Ross, who signed the Declaration of American Independ- ence; wanted to know if he was married, and if so, did he leave any issue? Belher, John Bridges. Answer — My mother was the granddaughter of George Ross, who mar- ried Ann Lawler, a Scotch lady. There is but one male descendant living of the name, my first cousin, George Ross, whose only son was killed in the late Southern Rebellion. His sister, Miss Mary Ross, a maiden, lady, is living in Philadelphia. The grandfather of George Ross was David Ross, of Ross- shire, in the North of Scotland, would like much to know if any of the Scotch branch of the Ross family are living. (Signed) Mrs. David G. Eshleman, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Answer — George Ross, one of the signers of the American Declaration of Independence, resided in Lancaster, Pa. According to Harris' Biographical History of Lancaster, Pa., he was married to Ann Lawler, who is, said to have been a lady of most respectable family. One of the sons, George Ross, Junior, was, from 1788 to 1790, Vice-President of the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania. Another son, James Ross, was an officer in the American Revolution and subsequently judge in Louisiana. The Ross family is now nearly extinct, being limited, I am informed, to a brother and sister, both unmarried, who reside in Philadelphia. There are several families in Lancaster who are descended from George Ross in the maternal line. Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Jos. Henry Dubbs, D. D. HON. JOHN ROSS, ROYAL ATTORNEY-GENERAL. Hon. John Ross was a son of Rev. George Ross by his first wife, Joanna Williams, of Rhode Island, and was thus half brother of George Ross, the " Signer." He was born at Newcastle, Del., in 1714, and died in Philadelphia, May 8, 1776. He was admitted to the bar in 1735, and rose so rapidly in his profession that in 1743 he was the chief rival of A/wwrftter Hamilton before the Pennsylvania courts. In 1744 he engaged in the manufacture of pig iron in Berks county, his interest continuing in the business until his death. He took part in the organization of St. Paul's Episcopal church in 1760, and became its first warden. In 1759, with others, he was consulted by the governor and council in relation to a law for recording warrants and surveys, and thus render the title to real estate more secure. Alexander Graydon says : " Mr. John Ross, who loved ease and Madeira much better than liberty and strife, declared for neutrality, saying that, 'let who would be king, he well knew that he should be subject.'" John Adams, in his diary (September 25, 1775), speaks of him as "a lawyer of great eloquence and heretofore of extensive practice, a great Tory, but now they say beginning to be converted." Hon. John Ross was a friend and correspondent of Benjamin Franklin, and an early member of the American Philosophical Society. His portrait 1 66 Rossiana. was in the possession of General Meredith Read, and now hangs in the drawing-room of the author's home. It represents him sitting in his library. He was a large man of florid complexion and vigorous constitution. This portrait, dated 1766, was by Alexander, who came to this country about the middle of the 18th century, and while at Newport, seeing there a youth, Gil- bert Stuart, and finding him endowed with great talent, took him with him upon his southern tour during which this and other family portraits formerly in the possession of General Meredith Read were painted. There is also a most admirable portrait of Mrs. John Ross and one of her daughter Cath- erine, wife of Captain Henry Gurney of the British Army, all painted in the Hon. I. .iin Ross (1714-1776), Attorney-Genera] same year. One evidence of a great artist is the beautiful modeling of the hands, and in each i>\ these portraits the hands are exquisitely painted. Mrs. Gurney is standing with her hand upon the keys of a spinnet, in a white court dress with a crimson mantle. Entries in the Family Bible of the Hon. John Ross. Hon. John Ross's family Bible, which is still in existence, was published at Oxford by John Baskett. in IJ2J. It contains the following entries: " Be it remembered that John Ross. Esq., of PhiK counsellor-at-law, son of the Rev. George Ross. Rector of the Church at XewCastle-on-Delaware. was solemnly married to Mrs. Elizabeth Morgan of PhiK eldest dan. to Descendants of George Ross, the " Signer." 167 Mr. Benjamin Morgan of Philadelphia, gentleman, on the 18" day of Dec. anno domini 1735, by the Rev. Mr. Archibald Cummings. Commissary and Rector of Christ Church. Phil a . Their children were : Elizabeth Ross, b. 2 May 1740, d. 13" Aug. 1741. Margaret Ross. b. 25 May 1747. d. 20 Aug. 1766. Catherine Ross. b. 21 July 1748, d. 27 Aug. 1782, m. Henry Gurney, Esq., late Capt. in the British Army," who took part in the Seven Years' War. The arms of Captain Gurney are also contained in the Bible : A paley of six or and az ; crest, a lion's head erased or ; in the centre an escutcheon 7V JP&ILAIWLPlILi £\\ . 1 5. Patton (horn March 13. 177S), married Elizabeth Witmer, June 15. [805. No children. 6. William Bird (born April 6. [7X.2; died February [3, 1828). Unmarried. In the record of the Iowa Sons of the American Revolution, published in the "Year Book of the Societies Composed of Descendants of the Men of the Revolution" (1890), appears the following entry: Huitt Ross, Stratford. Hamilton county — Great grandson of George Ross, ot Delaware, Signer of the Declaration of Independence. On the maternal side, great grandson of Stephen Hopkins, of Rhode Island. Signer of the Declaration of Independ- ence. Mr. Ross's grandfather, Huitt Ross, was wounded at the battle of Maumee, under " Mad " Anthony Wayne. His father. Thomas Ross, fought at Tippecanoe under Genera] William Henry Harrison. He was himself with General Zachary Taylor at Palo Alto, Mexico, and Monterey; and then with General Winfield Scott at the capture of the City of Mexico, while a son marched with Sherman to the sea in the Sixteenth Iowa Regiment. If this statement is correct, George Ross, the Signer, must have had a son Huitt. The Ross Bible, however, contains no mention of this son, and Mr. Eshleman does not include the name in his chart of George Ross' descendants, in which he makes the late Mary Elizabeth Ross, daughter of Ceorge W. Ross, the last descendant bearing the name of Ross, though he does state that George Ross, son of George \\ ., left descendants in < Ihio, Indiana, Michigan, etc., but whether those descendants bore the name of Ross is uncertain. Rossi ana. 171 7. Gertrude Read (born January 20, 1785; died May, 1786). 8. George Washington (See below.) 9. Thomas Rufflin (born November 12, 1791 ; died April 17, 181 1). No children. 10. Robert Coleman (born December 20, 1793; died June I, 1818). No children. 11- Caroline. (See below.) 12. Eliza Juliana. (See below.) 4. Ann Ross (born January 5. 1774; died December 9, 1816) married James Hopkins, June 21, 1791. They had — 13. Washington. 14. William. 15. George. 16. James M. (See below.) 17. Ann. (See below.) 8. George Washington Ross (born April 24, 1788) married Alary Witmer, December, 1812. They had — 18. George (born April 4, 1817). Left descendants in Ohio, Indiana. Michigan, etc. 19. Mary Eliza (born March 31, 1814; died November 19, 1906). Last descendant of George Ross, the " Signer,'' of the name of Ross. 11. Caroline Ross (born February 15, 1796) married Samuel D. Orrick, May 31, 1821. They had — 20. John Newton. (See below.) 12. Eliza Juliana Ross (born October 25, 1797; died April 8, 1871) mar ried Dr. Abraham Carpenter, a Lancaster physician. July 2~, 1814. He died July 27, 1840. They had — 21. Caroline Orrick. (See below.) 16. James M. Hopkins was married and had — 22. William... 23. Henry C. (See below.) 17. Ann Hopkins married Newton Lightner, Esq., of Lancaster, Pa. They had — 24. James (unmarried), living at Lancaster. 20. John Newton Orrick (born June 24, 1828) married Lizzie . and had — 25. Caroline (unmarried), who lives in New York city. 21. Caroline Orrick Carpenter (born November 5, 1828; died April 11. 1906) married David G. Eshleman, November 14, 1848. He died April 30, 1895. They had — 26. Anna Julia. (See below.) 27. Eliza Ross. (See below.) 28. Harriette Borrows (born October 1, 1856), married E. C. Stimson, June 4, 1879, and now lives in Denver, Col. No children. 29. George Ross (born September" 30. 1864), married Elizabeth, daughter of S. S. Spencer, of Lancaster, Pa.. June 1, 1893. No children. Hon. George Ross, the "Signer" (1730-1779), from a portrait, painted at an early now in possession of Mrs. John H. Rodney, Newcastle, Del. Descendants of George Ross, the " Signer." 173 23. Henry C. Hopkins was one of a family of twelve children. He was married, and had — 30. Henry C, who had eleven children. 31. Ralph. 32. Isabel. 26. Anna Julia Eshleman (born October 20, 1849; died October 24, 1879), married John H. McMurdy, Alay 28, 1872. He died June 5, 1875. They had — 33. John H., who married Mary Frances Kaufman. No children. Address, 72 Broadway, New York city. 27. Eliza Ross Eshlem?n (born August 13, 1853), married Frank M. Taylor, November 28, 1876, and now lives in Denver, Col. They had — 34. David Paul (born Aprii 7, 1881). Unmarried. The following articles are in possession of George Ross Eshleman, Esq. : _ Portraits of George Ross and Ann Ross," his wife, painted by Benjamin West. Miniature of John Ross (brother of George Ross, the " Signer ") and his daughter. Solid silver tankard engraved with the Ross coat-of-arms. Silver cream pitcher of George Ross, the " Signer." Bible of George Ross, the " Signer," containing family records. GHOST STORY OF THE REVOLUTION. Hon. John Ross was a Staunch Tory Alive or Dead. — Warned all Patriots to Repent. — Dr. Kearsley's Weird Tale of the Royalist's Wraith Which Left With Him a Document and Ring. — Ghostly Message. DR. JOHN KEARSLEY was one of the most prominent Philadelphians of his day. He was a gentleman of large fortune and great learning. At the era of the Revolution, Dr. Kearsley, though otherwise a citizen of good character and standing, became exposed to the scoffs and insults of the people by his ardent loyalism. As be was naturally impetuous in his temper, he gave much umbrage to the Whigs of the day by his rash expressions. It was intended, therefore, to sober his feelings by the argument of tar and feathers. He was seized at his own door in Front street, a little below High street, Philadelphia, by a party of militia, and in his attempt to resist them received a bayonet wound in his hand. Mr. Graydon has told the sequel He was forced into a cart, and amidst a multitude of boys and idlers, paraded through the streets to the tune of the " Rogue's March." The con- course brought him before the coffee house, where they halted, the doctor foaming with indignation and rage, without a hat, his wig dishevelled and himself bloody with his wounded hand, stood up in the cart and called for a bowl of punch — when so vehement was his thirst he swallowed it all before he took it from his lips. " I was shocked," says Graydon, " at the spectacle, thus to see a lately respectable citizen so vilified. It is grateful to add, however, that they proceeded to no further violence, thus proving that a Philadelphia mob has some sense of restraint. To prevent further injury, the leaders of the patriot cause in Philadelphia bad him sentenced to be imprisoned for a limited time in the back counties of Pennsylvania for high crimes against his country. Dr. Kearsley had as his most intimate friend one of the most noted lawyers in this country, for many years Royal Attorney-General, Hon. John Ross. Mr. Ross was a man of very large fortune for his day, and lived in very fine style. His country seat, Tusculum, was one of the most beautiful plate, his servants and liveries were noted. His wines and his dinners plate, his servants and liveries were noted. His wines and his dinners were believed to be the best in America. Dr. Kearsley was a frequent guest at the home of Mr. Ross, and on one of these occasions the two old friends had been talking of death and the next world, and they came to an agreement that the first to die would come back to this world and make himself known to the other to show that another world existed. 'This story was printed in The Argus, Albany, N. Y., Sunday morning, March 20, 1904.— H. P. R. Ghost Story of the Revolution. 175 Back From the Dead. John Ross died before the Revolution closed in 177O. 'Much effort had been wasted to make him join the patriots, but all in vain, he stating that he well knew that no matter who was king he would always be the subject. On the night of the 20th of January, 1777, Dr. Kearsley saw his friend who had come back to him from the other world, but. perhaps, it will be just as well to let him tell his own story, which was found written in his own hand. The manuscript, much worn, tattered somewhat at its sides, and separated where creases were made by its folds, has been in the past much sought for, handled and read. This paper was the property of His Excel- lency, Governor Read, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, a United States Senator, a Chief Justice and Governor of Delaware. George Read married a sister of Hon. John Ross and was naturally interested in the paper : " For the Honourable, General William Thompson, on his plantation near Carlisle : "Dear Sir. — Last Monday night, the 20th January, 1777, be it remembered, I went to bed at ten o'clock, and as is common with me to order the servant to cover up the unconsumed part of the fire with ashes, after I had seen it done. A little before day-break I was awakened by an extraordinary dream, viz., that I was in company with our old friend John Ross, lawyer. As it then made a great impression on my mind, it is easy for you to conceive the emotions I felt on the occasion, nor will you be surprised when I tell you 1 jumped directly out of bed, and by the gleaming light of my fire, which had forced its way into a small flame through the ashes, I distinctly saw his figure on which, without any fear, I looked with great earnestness. At this instant the fire burst forth into a blaze, insomuch that I could see him very distinctly, with a paper in his hand, standing, in a speaking attitude, when he began and thus addressed me : My dear sir, you and I, in the state of body you are now in, ever lived in the greatest harmony and best friendship. I have been removed from you by the wise and kind providence of God, to a place of peace and ever- lasting felicity, while you are to remain some time in a world of trouble and great confusion, where you will hear of wars and rumors of wars, accompanied with pestilence, already begun, and famine which will ensue, and continue till your sins abate. These, my friend, are the scourges of sin, the vengeance of God poured forth on the American people for their ingrati- tude that superlative of sin which the Almighty always punishes.' " " Continued he : ' Lest you should doubt the authority of what I now say, I pray you take this paper,' which he held forth in his hand, 'and to con- vince you that I have really made an appearance to you, behold my signature, the initials of my name and profession in your world. These are placed first to every line, and I leave them along with this my signet ring, well known to you in the past, cut with the three rampant lions of my family coat and the sign known to you that you may as my steward keep them as a sign and token to be shown to my friends, but particularly to General Thompson, whom I love, and wish to hint something not unlike to what with you is termed prophecy.' " On thus speaking these words he disappeared, leaving the matter and ring behind him in my hand. In discharge of my duty to the above com- mission, and conceiving it also my duty to you "to discharge so important a trust, I send you a copy and whenever you will do me the favor of a visit you may see the original. I will seal this letter with the ring which you will readily recognize as the one always worn on John Ross' right hand. You will remember the stone, a Scotch chrystal, beautifully cut with the Ross coat of arms, and under, on the other side, a star formed of three 176 Rossi a u a. triangles with two circles inscribed with strange letters. 1 Mr. Ross had a strange story, you will recall, of this ring. It was brought from Scotland by his father. Rev. Mr. Ross, and was the parting gift of the latter's father, David Ross, of Balblair. It had belonged to one Hugh Ross 2 of Shandwick, who was a necromancer and wizard, notwithstanding his lairdship, in the fifteenth century. The star on the back was always known as the ' wizard foot.' I am, my dear sir. with many compliments to you and Mrs. Thompson and family, your very humble servant, " John Kearsley." "A True Copy." " Inspired to leave with you my trusty friend Old counsels, which I dare not wish to mend Honor to you disgrace to Congress' laws Nor can their terrors make you join their cause. Nor yet their prisons make you love their laws. Right well we lived when justice ruled the land O know you're at the would-be-king's command. Sent forth to fight as tyrants rule their slaves. Still will Britain rule both land and waves Lawyer I was, and Magna Charta knew Averse to riot, studied to be true, When just laws ceased heaven kindiy gave her call You have felt — I now foretell — so will all Ever gracious Lord ! Avert the dreadful stroke Repent ye ingrates — nor your God provoke. lThe under side of the ring had a five-pointed star in outline, as told in the above story, and the Hebrew letters were those forming the names of the spirits Ye Kahal and Aziel, known to the magicians and ancient Free Masons as the first Pentacle of Mercury, which controls the spirits which are under the firmament. 2This same Hugh Ross is said to have discovered much buried treasure one Sunday, between the 10th of July and the 20th of August, when the moon was in the sign of the lion. He went into a place which he had found by magical incantations, and with a magical sword described a circle of sufficient size to open the earth as the nature of the ground would allow. Three times during the day he burned incense in the hole, after which, clothed in a white silk garment, with mystic characters in red silk on the breast, and with white shoes on his feet. On his head was a gold crown, with the letters " Yod. He, Vau, He " on its front. Ross suspended, above the opening in the ground, a lamp whose oil was mingled with the fat of a man who had died in the month of July, and the wick was made from the cloth wherein he had been buried. Having kindled this with fresh fire, he fortified his ten workmen each with a girdle of the skin of a goat, newly slain, whereon was written with the blood of the dead man these words, " Nopa Padous." He then set the men to work, warning them not to be disturbed, but to work boldly, which they did. At the end of the second day their tools rang upon a huge metal-bound box of great age. They tried to lift the box, but in vain. The night had come, and looking down into the hole, lighted now by the overhanging lamp alone, he beheld the figure of a semi-luminous grey man, seated upon the lid of the box. Remembering himself, he said: "Adonai, Elohim El, Asher, Ehlieh, Existence of Existences, have mercy upon me! O ye good and happy spirits, depart in peace. Amen." As the last word was pronounced the old grey man arose, suddenly grew twenty feet high, and said: " I am that spirit Aziel, who guards the fortunes of your house; the treasure is yours; farewell," and disappeared. Ghost Story of the Revolution. 177 "Agreeable to our many conversations about eternity that the first of us who died, if permitted, should visit the other, by the will of the Omnipotent who governs the universe. I am sent to comfort you, but also to redeem the land which is now overwhelmed with trouble, a sure consequence of sin and pride, a continuance in which will be a misery, destruction and death. Believe, O ye sinners, believe and repent ! The sins of ingratitude, wilful and corrupt perjury, persecution and cruelty, with the sin of falsehood con- tinually propagated to inflame and mislead the ignorant, has so provoked the vengeance of heaven that the Almighty is to come forth against you with a flaming" sword to burn you up and cast you off; and I am risen from the dead to give you this last most solemn warning. Moses and the prophets have admonished former generations and some have believed and been saved. But if ye will not believe me when risen from the dead, horrid judgments will attend you. Death is but the continuation of the life on earth in another form and in another world. "John Ross." [Seal.] Ghost's Last Appearance. General William Thompson was by birth an Irishman. He emigrated at an early period of the eighteenth century to Pennsylvania. He had received a good education and was descended from a respectable family. He settled on a plantation which he called " Soldiers' Retreat." near Carlisle, in Cum- berland county, Pennsylvania. He was at first a surveyor ; he then went into the war between France and England as a commissioned officer. He re- ceived a silver medal from the city of Philadelphia for distinguished services in this war. He became during the American Revolution one of the most patriotic and gallant officers in our army. He died on September 3, 1781. The story is that ten days before his death, as he sat one evening before a table sealing a letter with the famous ring of John Ross that had been given to him by Dr. Kearsley, the candles suddenly became dim, and near the fireplace in which there was a fire, a smoke made itself felt, and all at once the form of John Ross became plain, but all he said was, " Fear not, for it is well with thee, thy time is near," and with that the figure moved to the table and caught up the ring that the general had dropped, and then faded away. The portrait of John Ross, Esq., painted by Alexander, the first master of Gilbert Stewart, is still in existence and represents a gentleman in the fashionable clothes of one hundred years ago, with a wig and lawn sleeves, seated in his library. Antiquarian. Albanv, N. Y. ANOTHER GHOST STORY. In connection with Tusculum, the mansion of John Ross, there is a curious old servant's tale, which will bear repetition in these pages. The old woman, who was a trusted servant and had been in the family many years, is said to have seen the spectre of Mrs. Captain Gurney, 1 daughter of John Ross, one night some five years after her death. The servant had been left in iGuRNEY Arms — Paly of six or and azure per fess countercharged. Crest — A lion's head erased or, gorged with a palisado coronet composed of spearheads azure on an esquire's helmet manteled gules doubled argent. (Captain Gurney.) 1 7 8 Ko. ssi a u a. charge of the house, as the story goes, preparatory to its being sold. It was a dark, stormy night in the late autumn, and the old woman was fast asleep upstairs, the only other person in the house being an old retainer in the family who had been the gardener years before. The servant was suddenly awakened by a loud crash down stairs. Believing the old retainer had fallen in some way, and thinking it strange that he should be awake at that hour of the night, she procured a light and went down stairs. To her great surprise she found the library illuminated and heard some one moving about in the room. As she entered the room, she nearly died of fright, for there in the old fiddle-backed chair Mr. Ross always Mrs. Hkxky GuRNEY (1748-1782), nee Catherine Ross, daughter of Hon. John Ross (1714-1776). used, sat her late mistress, Mrs. Gurney. In her hands she held a beautiful string of pearls and a magnificent jewel, in the shape of a cross, set with diamonds, swung from it. The wainscoted wall opposite her contained a large square hole, exposing an iron box, the lid of which had been wrenched off. and. falling to the floor, had caused the crash which had awakened the old woman. The box appeared to be filled with gold and jewels and costly rings. Mrs. Gurney. who sat in the chair toying with the pearls, was dressed in white satin trimmed with coral. As the horrified servant started to rush from the room, the spectre turned and seemed to recognize the old woman. At this instant the lights were extinguished, and in the darkness of the hallway the old servant felt something sweep past her, open the front door and vanish. Interesting Family Incident. 179 The next morning the old woman went into the library in great fear and found the room in its usual condition. There was no hole in the wall, but at the foot of the chair in which the spectre of Mrs. Gurney had sat was the beautiful cross. On the back was engraved the Arms of Ross — the three well-known lions — and around the shield, in ancient Scotch, the words, " Fear not, for I am with you." In the center was a long oval upon which was represented the Saviour and the Four Evangelists, in ancient enamel, and incrusted with diamonds. On the four branches of the cross were four angels, and the end of each branch was finished with a great pearl. A ring of gold and pearls served to attach it. This cross, which had never before been seen by any member of the family, was handed down by Mrs. Gurney's descendants for a number of generations. The pearl necklace was never found, although the family had searched for it after Mrs. Gurney's death. The old servant lived many years after her ghostly experience, and only told the story on her death bed. INTERESTING FAMILY INCIDENT. About the year 1883. Mrs. Gillespie of Philadelphia, a great grand- daughter of Benjamin Franklin, with whom General Meredith Read had long been acquainted, called upon General and Mrs. Meredith Read at their resi- dence at Newport, in order to show them a ring with which is connected an interesting family incident. Margaret Ross, or Margaretta, as she is styled on her portrait, the daughter of the Hon. John Ross, Attorney General, and his wife nee Elizabeth Morgan, was born on the 25th August, 1747. She was a beautiful and accomplished girl and an heiress. When she was eighteen years of age she was affianced to Richard Bache, who was born in Settle in the West Riding of Yorkshire, England, on the 12th September, 1737, and died 29th July, 181 1. He was the brother of Theophylact Bache of New York, merchant, also born in Yorkshire, and who had gone to New York as early as 1751, was identified with the resistance to the Crown in 1765, and in 1770 was one of the Committee to carry out the resolutions of Non- Intercourse. In 1777 he was chosen fifth President of the New York Chamber of Commerce. Richard Bache established himself in Philadelphia and accumulated a handsome fortune. Margaret Ross caught a severe cold at her father's resi- dence, Tusculum. which now forms a portion of the Episcopal Hospital, near Philadelphia, which the Ross fortune created, and this cold developed finally into a decline. Finding herself to be dying, the young girl sent for her friend Sally Franklin. — her intimate friend and the only daughter of Ben- jamin Franklin, — and also for her betrothed lover, Richard Bache. And when they came into her room she said, " Sally, I am about to die, and I wish you to marry Richard," and taking their hands she joined them and made them promise to marry after her death. Her last instruction was to have a ring prepared of the finest workmanship, upon which was to be enamelled this inscription : " Margaret Ross, ob. Aug. 20, 1766 " "Aged Nineteen " i8o Rossi a 11 a. And this ring was to be given to Sally Franklin upon her marriage, and to be ever afterwards worn by her. Richard Bache married Sally Franklin on the 3rd October of the following year, 1767. Franklin appointed him Secretary Comptroller and Register General to date from the 29th September, 1775, and this office he held until November. 1776. when he became Post- master General and continued such until 1782. His wife, Sarah Franklin, was the chief of the patriotic band of ladies who made clothes for the half- clad soldiers and sought to mitigate their sufferings during the severe winter of 1780. She died on the 5th October, 1808, and bequeathed this ring to her daughter, from whom it came to her granddaughter Airs. Gillespie who. during the Rebellion, rivalled her grandmother in her philan- thropic labours on behalf of our soldiers during the Revolution. Mrs. Gillespie wrote the following acrostic for General Meredith Read : Maiden, whose bones have crumbled long ago, Above thy tomb we bend, yet not in woe ; Regrets we have none, that an early call Grim Death made thee. He comes for all. And taking thee, he left us cause for mirth ; Reaching far back, aye, even from our birth. Each one of us was called for, though, finally. 'Twas that which made us flesh and blood with Sally. Requiems we sing not. for they're rather dull ; Odes we will write, with praises ever full; Sonnets and verses to that name we'll pen; Sally's our grandma ; she. the child of Ben. Newport, August 20th. 1883. DESCENT FROM THE ROYAL HOUSE OF SCOTLAND. THERE can scarcely be a question that the Rosses of Balnagown, Shand- wick, Balmachy and Balblair, from whom descended the American families of Ross and Read, were direct descendants of the Royal house of Scotland. If there were no other evidence to substantiate this, the fact that the arms of the Earls of Ross (gules three lions rampant, within a tressure argent) were taken from the shield of the King himself (which was or and the tressure gules, and displayed one lion rampant), to show that they were children of the Royal lion or Royal house, would unerringly point to a royal connection. The Lairds of Balnagown dropped the tressure and retained the three Royal lions as proof of their Royal descent. George Crawfurd, historiographer of Scotland, in his early account of the Earls of Ross, recorded the fact that Hugh Ross of Rarichies, first Laird of Balnagown, was the son of Hugh, fifth Earl of Ross, and Lady Maud Bruce, sister of Robert II, thus establishing the connection between Balna- gown and the royal house. This view was later accepted by Rev. Compton Reade in his " Record of the Redes," who also added the statement that another connection with the royal house was formed by the marriage of Hugh Ross, fourth Laird of Balnagown, and Janet, daughter of the Earl of Sutherland by Helen Sinclair, a direct descendant of King Robert II. Mr. Francis Nevile Reid, however, in his very full account of the Earls of Ross, makes the assertion that Hugh of Rarichies was the son of Hugh, fifth Earl of Ross, and his second wife, Margaret, daughter of Sir David Graham. If this were true, it is necessary to look elsewhere for a royal connection. As to the marriage of Hugh, fourth of Balnagown, and Janet, daughter of the Earl of Sutherland, Mr. Reid says that " it is said " to have occurred, but that " at Dunrobin there is no trace of this lady or of the marriage of Hugh Ross." Francis Nevile Reid's account having been given in full, it is deemed only fair that the pedigree by Rev. Compton Reade should be reproduced in these pages. I am inclined to believe that Mr. Nevile Reid is right, inasmuch as he made a life-study of the subject and expended a greater amount of energy and money in getting the descent correct than any other person. I must add. however, that my great-grandfather, Hon. John Read, who was a lawyer of eminence, a learned man. and a writer of note, as well as a banker of distinguished ability, always believed in the direct royal descent, and that my father, General J. Meredith Read, believed in it also. The pedigrees given by Compton Reade are as follows : i 182 Rossiana. DESCENT FROM THE ROYAL HOUSE OF SCOTLAND. Isabel, naturalised daughter of William the Lion = Robert de Bruce. I . ^ Maud Bruce, sister of King Robert Bruce=HucH, Earl of Ross (whose sister I Euphemia = Robert II.) I Hugh Ross, Baron of Rarichies and Balnagown = Margaret de Barclay. William Ross. Baron of Rarichies and Balnagown = Christiana, daughter of I Lord Livingstone. I Walter Ross, Baron of Rarichies and Balnagown = Katherein McTyre. Hugh Ross II., Baron of Rarichies and Balnagown = Janet, daughter of the Earl of Sutherland by Helen Sinclair daughter of the Earl of Orkney. I Rev. William Ross, of Little Allan, Sub-Dean of Ross = Griselle Macdonald, niece of the Lord of the Isles. I Walter Ross, Laird of Shand\vick = Jane Tulloch. I I Hugh Ross, Laird of Balmachie, was succeeded by his elder son, I Donald Ross, Laird of Balmachie, who was succeeded by I ! Walter Ross. Laird of Balmachie, whose successor was I Hugh Ross, Laird of Balmachie, followed by his elder son, George Ross. Laird of Balmachie, who = Margaret McCulloch. Andrew Ross, Laird of Balblair, was the father of David Ross, of Balblair. who = Margaret Stronach. 1 ^. Rev. George Ross, M.A. (ordained by the Bishop of London), Rector of jj^^f, Emmanuel Church, New Castle. Delaware =£ secondh^vi*/ tjuvsr^' Catherine Van Gezel. J \* V 1 *^ ^ - _ tv> S*" V Gertrude Ross (whose brother George Ross was one of the "Signers") = v " George Read, " The Signer." Y*\0- Descent from the Royal House of Scotland. 183 The Hon. John Read. Senator, etc. = Martha, daughter of General Samuel Meredith, Treasurer of the United States of America. ~~ I The Hon. John Meredith Read, Attorney General, and Chief Justice of Pennsylvania = Priscilla, daughter of I the Hon. J. Marshall, of Boston, U.S.A. r General John Meredith Read, who = Delphine Marie, daughter of Harmon Pumpelly, Esq., of Albany. A FURTHER DESCENT FROM THE ROYAL HOUSE OF SCOTLAND. Robert Bruce (2nd in the preceding table)=as his first wife Elizabeth, daughter of Sir Adam Mure, J of Rowallan. i Egidia Bruce = Sir William Douglas, of Nithsdale. I Egidia Douglas = Henry Sinclair, second Earl of Orkney. I I Helen Sinclair = Gordon, Earl of Sutherland. Janet Gordon = Hugh Ross II., Baron of Rarichies (see preceding descent), direct lineal ancestor of the late General John Meredith Read. Arms of Ross. — Gules, three lions rampant argent. Crest. — A lion rampant gules. Motto. — Nobilis est ira leonis. VAN GEZEL FAMILY CATHARIXE VAN GEZEL, of Xew Castle, who married, as second wife, Rev. George K — . was a direct descendant ox Gerrit van Gezel, who was the nephew and secretary oi Jacob Alrichs, who was appointed the first Dutch Governor, or Vice Director, of Delaware, then receutly named Xienw Amstel. Governor Alrichs was also an uncle of Beck. the Vice Director at Curac a. Vice Director Alrichs arrived in the Delaware, then called the South River. April 21, 1057. and Governor Stuy- vesant, in obedience to the orders of the Dutch West India Company, form- ally transferred to Governor Alrichs the " Fort of Casimir, now named New Amstel, with all the lands dependent on it. in conformity with our purchase from and transfer by the natives, to us on the 19 July. 1651." Upon his arrival at Fort Casimir. Alrichs received from Vice Director John Paul Jere- quet a surrender of his authority, and the Colony of New Amstel was formally organized. During the few months of Alrichs' directorship New Amstel prospered. The municipal government was remodelled, the town was laid out, buildings were rapidly erected, including a town hall : a bridge was placed over the creek near Fort Casimir. a magazine was constructed, the fort repaired, a guardhouse, bakehouse and forge built, together with residences for the clergymen and other public officers ; industry promised suc- ce.-s and thirty families were tempted to emigrate from Manhattan to the flourishing colony on South River. But disease and famine set in in and the heat of the summer enfeebled the unacclimated survivors. The wife of Alrichs was one of the victims. In the midst of these troubles Vice Director Alrichs died, having entrusted the government to Alexander d'Hinoyossa. with Gerrit van Sweringen and Cornelius van Gezel as Councillors. There are two references to persons named van Gezel in a volume entitled " Annals of Pennsylvania from the Discovery of the Delaware." by Samuel Hazard, which, it is understood, covers the period from 1609 to 16S2. On page 299 Gerit van Gezel is referred to as Secretary of Xew Amstel : and on page 301 it is stated that Cornelius van Gezel was removed from office as Councillor in Xew Amstel. A note refers to Volume XVII. Albany Records, page 142. The van Gezel family is of Dutch origin. The earliest reference to mem- bers of the Xew Castle family is believed at this time to be that among Records of the Dutch Reformed Church of Xew York. Among the records of marriages, as published in the Xew York Biographical and Genealogical Record. Vol. VIII. page 40. is found that of Jacob van Gezel. i. m. (that is young man or bachelor") from Xew Castle and Geertruydt Reyniers. j. d. (that is young woman or spinster) of Xew York. The bans or other notice appear to have been given on April 13, 1688. the celebration of the marriage following on May 9. 16SS. In the records of baptisms of the same church / 'an Gezel Family. 185 (See Vol. XI. page 1.38, N. Y. G. & B. Record) it appears that Anna Catharina, daughter of Jacob van Gezel and Geertruydt Reyniers, was bap- tized October 20, 1689, the witnesses being Reynier Williams, Hendrick Boelen and Femmetje"*Kock. Also that Cornelius, son of Jacob van Gezel and Geertruydt Reyniers. was baptized May 26. 1691, the witnesses being Adolph Pieterzen and Christiana de Honnem. In the parish register of the parish of North Sassafras or Saint Stephens in Cecil County, Maryland, it is recorded that Rynerius van Gezel, son of Jacob van Gezel and Gertrug his wife, was born December 16. 1696. and was baptized December 10, 1697. (See copy of Register at Md. Hist. Society, Baltimore, page 56.) A number or original papers, deeds, leases, &c. which refer to members of the van Gezel family are in the possession of Mrs. John Rodney of New Castle, who is descended from the Rev. George Ross and Catharine van Gezel, his wife. Among these papers is a deed from John Hogg to Cornelius van Gezel dated June 7, 1715, and it is thus quite plain that the family were living there prior to that time. Indeed the marriage notice of 1688 describes Jacob van Gezell as of New Castle, but the baptism of two children in New York some years later may indicate that after his marriage Jacob settled in New York. On the other hand, he may have merely taken his children there to be baptized in the church of his own or his wife's faith. There is also a confirmatory deed from John Hogg to Gertrude van Gezell dated November 17, 1718, which refers to the will of Cornelius van Gezell as dated November 8, 1717, and as devising a certain lot to his mother Gertrude van Gezell for life, with remainder to his brother John van Gezell and his sister Catharine. There is also a lease of February 8, 1730, from Rev. Geo. Ross of New Castle to Gertrug van Gezell, widow. This paper was signed by George Ross and also by Gertrug Vangezell, and opposite the signature of each is a seal in wax bearing the impression of a coat-of-arms. The same seal was used for both Mr. Ross and Mrs. van Gezell, and the device was a shield in the upper portion of which two rather long-legged birds are standing. The lower two-thirds of the seal has across it a band or " bend." The crest rests on a helmet and is an arm bowed at the elbow and in armor, the hand grasping something which cannot be deciphered. This device is not that of the Ross family or of the Van Gezel family, but may have been that of Gertrude's own family, Reyniers. There is also a deed of release of March 30, 1730, from George Ross and Catherine his wife, late Catharine Vangezell. There is an indenture from George Ross, gentleman, and Catharine his wife, and John Vangezell. saddler, and Mary his wife, of the one part, and Gertrude Vangezell. widow, of the other part. This paper was signed by George Ross, Ann Catharine Ross, John van Gezell and Mary van Gezel. There is also an abstract of the title to a certain lot evidently prepared by legal counsel. In it reference is made to* the will of George Ross as devising the lot to Jacob Ross, a younger son by his wife Catharine. It also refers to an indenture of May 22, 1755, in which George Ross is referred to as the eldest son of George Ross by his wife Catharine. Some of these very interesting papers have apparently not been recorded, but the deed from John Hogg to Cornelius and the confirmatory deed seem to have been recorded 1 86 Rossiana. in New Castle in Liber E. D. &c. folio 247, in which particular office seems not quite clear. It seems probable that the will of Cornelius and that of George Ross are of record in New Castle, and possibly an examination of the land records and records of wills there might establish some interesting circumstances. The records of Immanuel Church, New Castle, show that among the Church Wardens were: William Read 1720-1731, and John Vangezell, 1745-1762. Another entry records the burial of Gertrude van Gezell on March 27, 1810, without any statement to identify her with the earlier members of the family. From the above records and memoranda the following statement is made: Jacob van Gezel of New Castle and Gertrude Reyniers of New York were married on May 9, 1688 at the Dutch Reformed Church of New York. Jacob probably died prior to 1717 when Cornelius devised a lot to his mother and his brother and sister. Gertrude was living as late as March 31, 1730, when Rev. George Ross leased a lot in New Castle to her. They had children, as follows : A. Anna Catharine, baptized at Dutch Reformed Church October 20, 1689. Anna Catharine married the Rev. George Ross, the first Rector of Immanuel Church, New Castle, Delaware, being his second wife. They had children, as follows : 1. George Ross. 2. Gertrude, who married I. Till and second George Read. 3. Catharine, who married Gen. William Thompson of Perm. 4. Elizabeth, who married Col. Edw. Biddle of Phila. 5. Susanna, who married Rev. William Thomson, rector of St. Stephen's Church, Cecil County, Maryland. (He was a son of the Rev. Samuel Thomson and a cousin of Gen. William Thompson who married Catharine Ross ( 3 ) . They had a large family, among them a daughter, Mary, who married Dr. Thomas B. Yeazey of " Essex Lodge." Cecil County, Md. G. Mary, who married Mark Bird of Birdsboro. 7. James. 8. Jacob. Whether Jacob was in fact the youngest child is not plain. It is supposed he was Dr. Jacob Ross of New Castle. B. Cornelius van Gezell, baptized at Dutch Reformed Church, May 26, 1691. His will is dated November 8, 1717, and, as he devised certain property to his mother and brother and sister, it seems probable that he died unmarried or without children. C. John van Gezell. Married Mary Was living March 30, 1730. There is no further positive record now known of John but it seems quite probable that he was Church Warden of Immanuel Church 1745 to 1762. D. Rynerius, born December 16, 1696, baptized at St. Stephen's Church, Cecil County, Md., December 10, 1697. Van Gezel Family. 187 Jacob van Gezel and Gertrude Reyniers Married May 9, 1688. Cornelius I _ d. 1717 Anna Catharina John, who m. Rynerius m. Rev. Geo. Ross Mary WILL OF JOHN VAN GEZELL. In the name of God Amen I John Vangezell of the Town and County of New Castle on Delaware Shopkeeper being in health and sound in mind and understanding (praised be God therefor) duly considering that it is appointed for all men to die and being mindful thereof Do make this my last Will and Testament as followeth. First I Commend my soul to Almighty God my Creator hoping for free pardon and Remission of my sins and to enjoy ever- lasting happiness through the merits of Jesus Christ my Saviour. My body I commit to the Earth at the discretion of my Executor and as to my tem- poral Estate I dispose of the same as followeth. First I will that all my lawful Debts be paid by my Executor out of that part of my Estate hereinafter devised and bequeathed to him, it being my Intention and desire that no part of what shall be herein devised and bequeathed to my Daughter Gertrude be chargeable with any of them untill the whole which shall be hereby devised to my Executor if necessary be first Applied. Then I give and devise to my said Daughter Gertrude Vangezell all that my present dwelling house and Appurtenances in the front street of said Town of New Castle with the lot of Ground thereunto belonging to wit bounded South Easterly by the said front street Southwesterly by my lot purchased of George Read formerly belonging to Hon'ble James Hamilton North Westerly by the lot late of Sarah Janvier deced and North Easterly by the lot of Richard McWilliam. Also all that my front lot of Meadow Ground on the North West side of the Black Street of the said Town heretofore called Beaver Street and bounded South Easterly by the same street South Westerly by the lot of George Monro North Westerly by the centre of the old Bank dividing this from my Back Meadow Lot hereafter devised to my Executor and North Easterly with the Great Road leading from New Castle to Christiana Bridge to hold to my said Daughter Gertrude her heirs and Assigns forever. Then I also give and devise unto my said Daughter Gertrude all my Brick Messuage situate on the South Westerly side of the Thwart or Market Street in the Town of New Castle also adjoining the Brick Messuage late of the widow Blackburn deced with the Lot thereto belonging including therein A Moiety of the Ground between this devised Messuage and my frame Messuage to the Eastward thereof and that Breath from the Thwart Street to the South Westerly bound of both Lots with its apputenances to hold to my said Daughter Gertrude during her natural life and after to my Grandson John Vangezell son of Benjamin to him his Heirs and Assigns forever. Then I also give and bequeath to my said Daughter Gertrude in absolute Property to be by her taken and retained without .the usual form or Right of Assent by my Executor the 1 88 Rossi a u a. following part of my Personal Estate that is to say One Bed bolster and Pillows with Winter and Summer Covering therefor a Beadstead Curtains and there furniture half a dozen of my best chairs A looking Glass dressing Table, Dining Table Tea Table all of which my said Daughter is to have the liberty of making choice off together A pair of hand irons Shovel and Tongs, Also one pair of high chest of Drawers in the front Chamber my Silver Cane Cream Pot all my Table and Tea Spoons China and Delf Ware all my Sheeting Table Linnen and Xapkins and all my Kitchen Furniture including therein all Pewter Knives and Forks etc. Then I give and devise unto George Read of the Town of New Castle Gent, as my Executor for the payment of all lawful Debts against me or my estate that is to say all those my two Messuages on the South Easterly Side of the Said front Street in the Town of New Castle also with my several Lots on that side of the same street extending into the River Delaware bounded North Easterly by the House and Lot of George Ross deced and South Westerly by the Thwart Street — And all that my frame Messuage on the South Westerly side of the Thwart Street with the lot thereto belonging including therein A Moity of the Ground between this frame Messuage and the Brick Messuage herein before devised to my Daughter to the Westward and extending that division of the intermediate Ground from the Thwart Street to the South Westerly bounds of both Lots. And also all that my back Lot of Meadow Ground bounded North Easterly by the Great Road leading from New Castle to Christiana Bridge South Easterly by the Centre of the old Bank dividing this from my front Meadow Lot herein before devised to my Daughter South Westerly by the Lot of George Monro and North Westerly by the Orchard Lot of Richard McWilliam deced and also all that Lot of Ground not heretofor Conveyed by me purchased by me of the said George Read as also Situate on the North Easterly Side of the Thwart Street and North Westerly Side of the front Street and all other my Estate Real and personal whatsoever and wheresoever not hereinbefor mentioned and devised to hold to him the said George Read his Heirs and Assigns for the express Purpose of Selling and disposing of all my Right and Interest therein or in any part to Enable my said Executor to satisfy and discharge Debts as also Willing and Authorizing the sale thereof in the whole or in such Parts & allotments and in such manner as my said Executor in his discretion shall think fit and to the interest that my said Executor may not be discharged from undertaking the Trust I will that he shall be saved harmless and indemnified out of my Estate of and from all Damages and Expenses which shall or may happen or come to him for or by reason of his taking upon him the Execution of this will and I devise that he be allowed all Reasonable Commissions Costs and Charges and thereafter in Case of any Residue Remaining with my Executor I give devise and bequeath the same equally between my said Daughter Gertrude and my son Benjamin Vangezell their respective Heirs and Assigns. And whereas it may so happen through Casualties or otherwise that the part of my Estate which I have befor especially devised to my Executor may not produce sufficient for the purpose there mentioned in such case Will of Joint Van Gesell. 189 I do hereby will and Authorize my Executor to sell and dispose of such part of my Estate before devised to my Daughter and Grandson or either of them as he shall find necessary to pay Debts with that, that it is my meaning and desire that the small Brick Messuage on the South Westerly Side of Thwart Street Adjoining the Widw Blackburns be first disposed off and applied and in Case of any Residue in the Sales under this last Authority to my Executor I devise the same to my Daughter Gertrude solely and absolutely. And lastly I do hereby Nominate Constitute and appoint the said George Read Executor of this my last will and in case of his death or other disability I do hereby Nominate Constitute and appoint Mr. Curtis Clay of the City of Philadelphia Merchant Sole Executor of this will giving and granting unto him the like Powers of Selling and Conveying and after- wards of Applying the monnies arising therefrom as are herein before given and intrusted to the said George Read and I do revoke and make void all former and other Wills and Testaments by me at any time or times here- tofore made and do declare this to be my last Will and Testament. In Witness whereof I have hereto set my hand and seal this second day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty three. Jn. Vangezell (L. S.) Signed sealed and published by the before named John Vangezell as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who subscribed our names thereto As witnesses at his request and in his presence. John Read. Ross Thomson. Personally appeared John Read one of the Subscribing evidences to the within and foregoing will and being duly sworn doth say that he did see and hear John van Gezell sign seal publish pronounce and declare the within and foregoing Instrument of writing as his last Will and Testament that at the time of his so doing and saying he was (to the best of his belief) of sound and disposing mind and memory that he did sign his name as an evidence thereunto at his Request. In his presence and in the Presence of Ross Thomson Esquire whom he did see sign as one other evidence at the same time. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand at New Castle this 4th day of June Anno Domini 17S7. x Gun. Bedford, Regr. IGunning Bedford was a son-in-law of Colonel John Read (168S-1756), of Delaware, having married his only daughter, Mary, and was brother-in-law of Hon. George Read, the " Signer," named above as executor of John Van Gezel. BETSEY ROSS AND THE AMERICAN FLAG. ELIZABETH ROSS, better known as Betsey, was born in Philadelphia, Pa., January I, 1752, and was the daughter of Samuel and Rebecca Griscom. Her father, a member of the Society of Friends, was a noted builder, having assisted in the erection of Independence Hall. Skilful with her needle, she was fond of embroidery and other artistic and delicate work, and after her marriage to John Ross in 1773, who was a son of the Rev. Aneas Ross, assistant rector of Christ Church, and a nephew of Col. George Ross, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a grandson of Rev. Geo. Ross, of New Castle, Del., they went into the upholstery business, which they conducted until January, 1776, when John Ross died from an injury received while guarding military stores. The young widow continued the business alone. When Congress appointed a committee to design a suitable flag for the nation in June, 1776, on which was Col. Geo. Ross, General Wash- ington and Robert Morris, the committee, at the suggestion of Colonel Rossr went to her shop, at Xo. 239 Arch street, and engaged her to make the flag from a design drawn up by Washington and Colonel Ross, who was learned in the science of Heraldry. The drawing represented the outlines of a flag of thirteen stripes with a center or union dotted with thirteen six-pointed stars. Mrs. Ross suggested changing the stars trom six points to five points, because one would cut them out so much easier, illustrating this by deftly folding a bit of paper, and with a single snip of her scissors producing the star. The sample flag made by her was accepted by the committee and adopted by Congress June 14. 1777. After this she received the contract to make all government flags and held it many years, her daughter, Mrs. Clarissa Wilson, continuing the business uniil 1857. Mrs. Ross was afterwards married to Captain Ashburn. and for the third time to John Claypole. She died in Philadelphia, Pa., January 30. 1836. In connection with Mrs. Ross' making the first official flag of the United States it may not be uninteresting to give a few facts about the origin of the most beautiful flag in the world. The first striped flag used by the Americans was that used at Washington's headquarters at Cambridge. Mass., January 2, 1776. General Washington says of it : " We hoisted the Union flag in com- pliment to the United Colonies and saluted it with thirteen guns." This flag had thirteen stripes, alternate red and white, with the united crosses of St. George and St. Andrew on a blue field, the cross of St. George fimbri- cated to represent the original white field of the flag of St. George. It is said that Paul Jones first hoisted the flag of America in 1775 ; this is about two years before the Congress, in session at Philadelphia, resolved "that the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white ; the union to be thirteen stars on a blue field, representing a new Betsey Ross and the American Flag. 191 constellation, the stars to be arranged in a circle." Therefore, even though Elizabeth Robbins Berry, in her interesting article on the American flag, states that this flag is still in existence and that it has thirteen stripes and twelve stars (?) I think there must be some mistake, because it is contrary to tradition and history as far as we know. I believe the flag that was hoisted by Paul Jones was that which was used by Washington at Cambridge, and that either the flag now in existence is another of Paul Jones' flags of a later date or the same one with the union changed. Tradition states that Colonel George Ross was the real designer of the first American flag. He was a Arms of the United States of America. lawyer of distinction, a student and a man of great ability. He was much interested in heraldry. It is said that Washington was naturally anxious to preserve something of the striped flag that he had used at Cambridge and also that he was anxious to do away with the crosses which suggested a dependency on Great Britain. Washington's coach had emblazoned upon it his coat-of-arms argent two bars and three mullets or stars gules (a white shield and three red stars at the top and two red stripes across the shield) and for crest an eagle rising out of a ducal coronet. These arms gave Colonel George Ross his inspiration and he suggested to Washington the placing of thirteen stars in the blue union, thus representing to the world a new constellation. 192 Rossiana. Some persons have thought that this new constellation represented that of Lyra, symbol of harmony. This idea was brought out when the coat-of-arms of the United States was invented and was suggested by the striped shield and the stars above, rind this constellation was actually engraved upon passports as the arms of the United States under the Adams' and other presidents. The first flag bore thirteen stars in a circle and the constellation Lyra has not this form ; the lyre, which is its emblem, however, reversed. looks a little like our national shield. Col. George Ross, who, like most of the officers in the army, was a great admirer of General Washington, wished to pay him a compliment by placing the stars in the union and at the same time please the general by retaining the stripes of the original flag, keeping the alternate white and red of Washington's shield. The coat-of-arms invented after naturally followed the flag in colors, but the chief of blue had no stars upon it and the stars of the arms were placed in a glory in the form of a double triangle. The eagle of the Washington crest was turned into an eagle displayed which, when it is alone and bears a shield upon its breast, denotes empire. The American eagle was naturally chosen as more emblematical of the new nation than an heraldic one. The thirteen arrows and the branch of olive in the claws are the only symbols not found in the Washington arms, and as they were symbolic of peace and war it was only natural to add them to the new design. FIRST UNITED STATES FLAG. The appended interesting matter is taken from a paper read by Airs. Eliza- beth Robbins Berry, of the Woman's Relief Corps, at the Y. W. C. A. flag drill, Albany, N. Y., 1907: It is claimed that the first using of the stars and stripes in actual military service was at Fort Stanwix, afterward Fort Schuyler, now Rome, X. Y., in 1777. On August second of that year the fort was besieged by the English and Indians. The brave garrison was without a flag, but one was made in the fort. The red was contributed by a woman, who tore stripes from a petticoat for the purpose, the white from shirts given by the men and the blue was a piece of Col. Peter Gansevoort's military cloak. The flag of thirteen stripes and thirteen stars was used at Brandywine, at Germantown, floated over the surrender of Burgoyne, cheered the patriots during the long winter at Valley Forge, waved at Yorktown, and shared in the rejoicings at the close of the war. There was no change in the flag until 1794. Vermont having come into the Union in 1791, and Kentucky in 1792, a bill was presented in Congress increasing the number of both stars and stripes to fifteen. This bill caused much debate. One wise legislator said : " The flag should be permanent. We may go on altering it for a hundred years. Very likely in fifteen years we shall number fifteen States." This was almost literally fulfilled. The bill was finally passed and the fifteen-striped flag was used for twenty-three years, including the period of the War of 1812. It was in this form that the flag inspired Francis Scott Key to write what is now our national anthem, " The Star Spangled Banner." The flag is still in exist- First United States Flag. 193 ence, stored in a safety deposit vault in New York city. Upon the death of its owner it will probably become the property of some historical society. In 1818 the number of States had increased to nineteen, and now comes a very interesting item in our flag's history. At the head of Wendover avenue in Clermont Park. Borough of the Bronx. New York city, is the old Zabriskie mansion, located in the centre on the high hill overlooking the avenue, and the present headquarters of the " Department of Parks." Over this building floats daily from sunrise to sunset a large flag observable from a great distance in every direction, and its setting, like the flag itself, thrills the observer. Wendover avenue is named for the Hon. Peter H. Wendover, Member of Congress, to whom our country is indebted for the design of the flag as it now appears — the thirteen stripes of white and red diverging from the constellation of forty-five stars in the blue held. The passenger on his way up through the Bronx on the elevated or trolley railroad will note the call of the conductor at Wendover avenue, which is also East One Hundred and Seventy-second street, but he or she would not be reminded how sacred is ihe name to national pride, a historical part of the " Stars and Stripes." The writer is indebted for much of the valuable information concerning Congressman Wendover and his part in our flag's career to Rocellus S. Guernsey, a resident of the Bronx for about thirty years and an author of several works on New York history, and for one of which this city council gave him, in 1896, a vote of thanks. It was on the 9th of December, 1816, at the second session of Congress that Mr. Wendover took the matter up. and at his instance a committee was appointed of which he was chairman. It made a report which was not then acted upon, and the subject was dropped at the close of the session. He was a sailmaker in New York and made flags for all that required them, so he knew by actual experience the impracticability there was in continuing to add a stripe as each new State was admitted. Soon after the meeting of Congress in December, 1817, to which he had been elected, Mr. Wendover offered a resolution " that a committee be appointed to inquire into the expedience of altering the flag of the United States, and that they have to report by bill or otherwise." He said : " Had the flag of the United States never undergone an alteration he certainly would not propose to make a further alteration in it." It was his impression, he said, and he thought it was generally believed that the flag would be essentially injured by an alteration on essentially the same principle as that which had been made of increasing the number of the stripes and stars. He stated the incongruity of the flags in use, except those in the navy, not agreeing with the law and greatly varying from each other. He instanced the flags flying over the building in which Congress sat and at the navy yard. one of which contained nine stripes, the other eighteen and neither of them compatible to law. After some further remarks the motion was put and agreed to without opposition, and he was named chairman of the committee to report a law. 194 Rossiand. The matter was referred by this committee to Capt. Samuel C. Reid, 1 of New York, who had distinguished himself as captain of a privateer by the capture of several British ships, and as a result the committee reported as follows : " That they are led to believe no alteration could be more emblematic of our origin and present existence, as composed of a number of independent and united States, that to reduce the stripes to the original number of thirteen to represent the number of States then contending for and happily achieving their independence and to increase the stars to correspond with the number of stars now in the Union and hereafter to add one star to the flag whenever a new State shall be fully admitted. " The alteration proposed will direct the view to two strong facts in our national history and teach the world an important reality, that republican government is not only practicable but that it is also progressive. It points to the States as they commenced and as they now are. and will, with an inconsiderable addition, direct the mind to a future state of things." Air. Wendover said in making the report for the committee: "It cannot be deemed proper to go on and increase the stripes in our flag. There are now twenty States ; what number they will ultimately extend to none can con- jecture. Sir, I am not now speaking of conquest, but I can no more believe that any portion of the earth will remain in perpetual thraldom and be forever tributary to a foreign power than I can subscribe to the doctrine of a ceaseless succession of legitimate kings." (At that time Spain, Portugal, Mexico, France, England, Russia and other foreign governments ruled large territories adjoining the United States or islands near the latter.) In conclusion he said: "Air. Chairman, in viewing this subject there appears to be a happy coincidence of circumstances in having adopted the symbols in this Hag and a peculiar fitness of things in making the proposed alteration. In that part designed at a distance to characterize our country, and which ought, for the information of other nations, to appear conspicuous and remain permanent, you present the number of States that burst the bonds of oppression and achieved our independence ; while in the part intended for a nearer, or home view, you see a representation of our happy union as it now exists, and space sufficient to embrace the symbols of those who may hereafter join under our banners." Thereupon Congress enacted the flag law of 1818, and the first flag in its present form was made by the wife of Captain Reid, assisted by a number of patriotic ladies, at her home in Cherry street, Xew York city. This flag had twenty-one stars, and it was provided further by Congress that a star should be added upon the admission of every new State. The plan of arranging the stars in rows was then adopted, and has since been continued. It is notable that no star was taken from the flag during the civil conflict in the 6o's. the government maintaining that the tie which binds the States could not be severed. Another flag was used in the seceding States for a few years, but the flag of the Union is now the flag of the South as of the North, as was amply proven during the Spanish-American War. a Captain S. C. Reid was no relation to George Read, " The Signer." Descent of the Ancient and Historic Read Family. REDE OF TROUGHEND. THE American family of Read, which began with Colonel John Read (born in Dublin, 1688), whose father was fifth in descent from Thomas Read, lord of the manors of Barton Court and Beedon, in Berkshire, and high sheriff of Berks in 1581, was descended from Rede of Troughend. The arms of the Redes of Troughend, chiefs of the name in Redesdale and descendants of Reod (Reoda or Riada) are as follows: Gules, three sheaves of wheat between a chevron or, bearing three stalks of wheat vert; crest, a dragon or griffin ; motto, " In God is all." The arms of the Barton Court family bore four sheaves, in place of the three borne by the Troughend family, and the saltire in the Barton Court house is changed to a chevron in the Troughend family, with a part of the fourth wheat sheaf placed upon the chevron. The crest is not the same; neither is the motto. The descent of the two families from the same ancestor is, however, clearly indi- cated. A manuscript of the time of Queen Elizabeth has a passage in which Rede of Troughend is thus described : '* Ye Laird of Trough- wen, the Chief of the name of Reed and divers followers." In 1542 the Redes of Troughend and their rela- tives were reckoned the second clan of the dale of Rede. The oldest forms of the name of the family in Redesdale are Rede and Read, which, in the Troughend family, became changed to Reed, and in the Barton Court family to Reade, except the American branch, which still spells it Read. Troughend. LAST OF THE TROUGHEND CHIEFS. A stone tablet in Elsdon Church, Redesdale (an illustration of which appears herewith), erected to Ellerington Reed, Esq., of Troughend, who died January 5, 1758, aged forty-four, has this remarkable inscription above the coat of arms : " The ancient family of Troughend for above 800 y rs ." The last of the Redes of Troughend, Chiefs of the name, was Ellerington Reed, Esquire, who sold Troughend and died in 1829. His second daughter and fifth child married a Mr. Hall. This very probably makes the Reads, or Reades, of Oxfordshire, the chiefs of the name in the world. 198 Rossiana. At the battle of Agincourt, which took place Friday, the 25th clay of October. 1415. one Rouland de Rede (whose shield was or, a saltire between four garbs gules) was in the retinue of Sir John Gray, thirty-five lances and ninety-six archers. At the same battle John Rede was one of the lances (Esquires) in the retinue of the Duke of Gloucestershire. THE REDES OF REDESDALE. The appended information was taken from documents, with the exception of the first paragraph. I regret that I am unable to give the name of Sir Thomas de Rede's father from documentary evidence, but tradition states that it was Thomas de Rede of Redesdale (1275?). The seal of Sir Thomas de Rede of Redesdale, bearing a chevron be- tween three garbs, was dug up on the estate of Lord Tankerville and is of the date 1300 A. D. Thomas Rede, in 1400. was bound to William de Swinburne for the ransom of William Mostrop. Thomas Reide. in 1429, served on a jury concerning Elsdon Church. Thomas Rede de Redesdale was returned by the commissioners of 1433- Thomas Reed, or Rede, swore al- legiance to Henry VI in 1435. William Rede of Troughend, Lord of Trougen ( name spelled Red at times), in 1552 was a com- missioner of enclosure and witness to the will of Clermont Read of Old Town (name spelled Red and Read in the will). Johannes Rede, in the -ixteenth century, was seized of Troughend. Percival Reed was rated for the Manor of Troughend in 1618 and 1638; cited before the Consistory Court of Durham. Gabriel Read was prior of the Manor of Redesdale in 1646, and in 1667 settled Troughend on his son Percival. He was living in 1685. Percival, his son. married Elizabeth, daughter of Gabriel Hall, and by her had issue — Gabriel (died 1718), who married Isabella, daughter of John Ellerir.gton. Ellerington Reed of Troughend (1714-1758) married Dorothy Boutrlower of Apperley ( 1717-1702 ). Ellerington Recti. 2d (1743-1X29). married Mary Snowdon of Prendwick, and aliened Troughend to Christopher Reed of Chipchase, December, 1764. Tablet in Elsdon ( ihrch. The Redes of Redesdale. 199 His son, Gabriel, married Jane Hunston of Kintreadwell. His brother, Robert, married Nancy Anderson, and by her had Gabriel, James and Percy. Of these sons one only is alleged to have survived, and must be now dead. In 1522 the Troughend Redes were reckoned chiefs of the clan. Of the Hoppen branch of the Troughend Redes, the first on record is George Read of Heathpool, living in 1743. Arms of Reed of the Cragg — Gules a chevron between three garbs or. Crest — A griffin or. Arms of Reed (or Read) of Heathpool and Hoppen — Or, on a chevron between three garbs, as many ears of reed argent. Crest — A demi-griffin or, holding an oak branch proper. Motto — In deo omnia. A REDE PEDIGREE. The following pedigree, which I found among my papers, will be of pass- ing interest to those of the name: To the members of our family the name of Thomas Rede, living in 1429, " whose son, Edmund Rede, possessed property at Hedington Oxon," will be of the greatest interest. On the other hand, Edmund Rede, Lord of Borstal, who is mentioned in this genealogy, we know bore arms that were not those of the Reads, of Oxfordshire, or the Redes, of Troughend. The seal of Sir Edmund Rede bears the following heraldic device: In the center is a helmet, on which is the crest, a wild boar. On either side of it are dogs entangled in the lambrequins. The helmet rests upon a shield con- taining three stags' heads on one side and three birds on the other (parted per pale) around the seal Re de Militis. Galfrinus de Rede, son of David de Rede (whose brother, John de Rede, held lands from the Bishop of Norwich), grandson of Robert de Rede, and great grandson, by Margaret Glanville, his wife, of William de Rede, who was fourth in descent from Brianus de Rede, living in 1139. had three sons: 1. Robert of Rede, who married Cicilia Randall, and died in 1346, leaving a son. Robert, consecrated Bishop of Carlisle 8th February, 1396, and trans- lated same year to Chichester, died 1415, left his property to the Dean and Chapter; 2, William, Bishop of Chichester, consecrated in 1369, died 18th August, 1385, and, 3. Thomas Rede, living in 1429, whose son, Edmund Rede, possessed property at Hedington Oxon. He married Cristiana, daughter of Robert James and Catharine de la Pole, his wife, and had (with a son, Edmund, whose son, Edmund, was Lord of Borstal), another son and heir, John Rede, Mayor of Norwich in 1388, and Sergeant at Law in 1402, who had (with a daughter, Magdalina, married to J. Paston, of Paston, esquire, d. 1429) two sons, Henry Patron, of Clothall. The eldest son. John Rede, of Norwich, married Joan Ludlowe. died nth November, 1502. leaving, with other issue, Thomas Rede, of Beccles, who married Phillippa Bacon, and had five sons: 1, William: 2. John, of Nor- wich, warden of New College, Oxon, in 1520, died 1521; 3. Alan Abbot, of Waltham, 1507; 4, Edward, Sheriff of Norfolk. 1508, and Member Parlia- ment, who died in 1524, was father of Sir Peter Rede, Knighted by the 200 Rossi a n a. Emperor Charles V after the siege of Tunis; he married twice, had a grant of arms, died 1568, and 5. Thomas, Rector of Beccles, died 1543. Arms — Az on a bend wavy or three Cornish choughs within a bordure engrailed argent charged with torteaue and twists alternately. Crest — A buck's head erased argent, attired or between two palm branches, of the second charged on the neck with three bars gemelles or three Cornish choughs proper. FIRST FREE MASON AMONG THE READS. The first Free Mason of the race seems to have been William Rede, Bishop of Chichester, Kent. His family came from Read in Marden. His first preferment was that of Provost of Wingham College. Ancient Library of Merton College. Founded by William Rede, Bishop of Chichester, who died in 1385. View of the Library from the grove. Bred a fellow of Merton College, he there built a fair library, furnishing it with books and astronomical tables of his own making, which (they say), are still to be seen therein. Retaining his mathematical impressions, he commendably expressed them in architecture, erecting a castle, himself working as master mason, at Amberley in Sussex. His death happened anno domini 1385. He was noted for his knowledge of the faculty of Abrax and the universal language. His mason (bench) mark was the five-pointed star or pentagram. Origin of the Arms of Rede, or Read. 201 ANCIENT TRADITION OF THE ORIGIN OF THE ARMS OF REDE, OR READ. An ancient tradition tells us how the Irish chieftain Riada or Reod was converted to the faith of Christ by a learned cnldee, and, burning to convert those who knew not the true faith, he cast his eyes upon the shores of Scot- land, which were visible on a clear day from that part of Ireland where he dwelt. Assembling his sept and all his fighting men, he made known his will, and the 'following month he and his tribe set forth in their rough ships to convert the heathen of other lands, and, as the fashion then was among the pious, to try and convert some of the lands of their neighbors to their own use. Landing at a time of the year when the corn had been gathered into sheaves, a great battle was fought by Reod in a field just beyond what was the great fortified city of the heathen Scots. The sun had just set and a glow of red light was lingering over the battlefield, the enemy had retired in some confusion into their walled city, and Reod, " with silver helmet and falcon crest, with locks of hair of reddish gold and eyes that pierced like the falcon's glare," " dressed in armour of chain and hide, with legs all bound with thongs of skin, in one hand held his heavy shield of hide, bound with gold, and in the other his axe, the handle inlaid with pearls, his shoulders covered with a cloak, checked with red and gold (the symbol of his clan)," tired and bleeding from many a wound made his way to a great oak tree not far away, there to rest himself. Before he had time, however to seat himself beneath the tree a great light appeared from under the branches, and our chieftain saw a man in white robe, fringed with blue, standing before him, and Reod knew that he saw his Master — that Christ of whom the culdee had so often spoken. A terrible fear came over him who had never known fear, and he fell upon his knees. The tradition tells little else, except the words spoken to him, and they are faltering — possibly because of the rendering them into many languages before they reached our own. Pointing to four wheat sheaves that were still left standing after the bat- tle, and taking them evidently as symbols of the richness and worth of the land they were in, the figure said: Reod, these I give to thee. Then pointing to a heap of the slain soldiers of Reod's army, he said: Because this blood was shed for me. Beneath this great and noble tree I have met thee, Reod. Because what thou hast done is good. Two of its branches thou shalt take and with them thou shalt make a cross which thou shalt bear against yonder gate and with it that proud city take. Fare thee well Reod. With these last words the figure vanished and Reod the brave was left in darkness. Early the next morning the slaves were ordered to make a gigantic cross of the great branches of the tree under which Reod had conversed with his God. 202 Russia u a. The astrologer of the prince having declared that the hour had come for beginning the battle, and the cross being finished in the form of an X or saltire, it was carried by twenty of the Dal Reodii in front of the army, and amid the deafening roar of trumpets was placed against the gate of the city, serving as a rough ladder for the soldiers of Reod, who climbed upon it and dropped on the other side and fighting their way to the very feet of the enemies' king slew him and carried his head to Reod. The city was thus taken by the aid of the cross, and all those of the enemy who were willing to bow their heads to the Symbol of the new faith were spared and became the subjects of Reod the brave, who reigned for many years afterwards in that part of Scotland. Four hundred years afterwards another Reod, descended from the first, was in turn driven out of the same city (or castle) and forced to cross over into the wilds of Northumberland with his family and followers. He settled in a dale near a beautiful river, to which dale he gave his name, Reodsdale, or Readsdale. The miraculous cross was carried into Readsdale and was for many centuries the centre of many pilgrimages; it finally fell to pieces because of its great age and what remained of it was buried at a place called Elsdon and a church was erected over it. The descendants of Reod. as time went on, multiplied greatly within the dale and the chief of the clan lived for eight hundred years at a place called Troughend — many of the family removing during the years 1200 and 1300 to Morpeth. When heraldry as a science first became known among men, about the year 1000 A. D.. the descendants of Reod took for their device the four wheat sheaves and the miraculous cross of Reod on a bloody field. ANCIENT REDESDALE. FROM the remote period when Reod, expelled from Dunstaffnage, descended first on a Northumberland vale and made it his own, to the Plantagenets, represents an hiatus valde deffendus. Research may eventually add to our slender stock of information and bridge over the centuries which divide the founder from those notable houses established by his descendants at different points in the wide area known still as Redesdale. Our difficulty is largely increased because Borderland changed hands so often. Northumberland, until the Battle of the Standard, was an integral part of the realm of Scotland. As a Scot Reod came there. He did not seek refuge in another land, but settled on the fringe of what was Kennett's Kingdom, acknowledging in all probability his sovereignty. Had Northum- berland been acquired by the Conqueror we should have had the Doomsday book for reference. On the other . _, hand, the independence of "•"*' ' *** the shire, secured by its vas- salage to the crown of Scot- »—--.. ** * , '* ' land, saved it from being absorbed by William's hun- gry followers. Thereby the ancient tribe held its own. and after Northumberland became an item of England, the clay for wholesale plunder was over, and suc- cessive sovereigns were glad enough of the lances supplied by knights of Redesdale in championing the cause of England during many centuries of interminable Border warfare. The Redes therefore preserved their tenure of the ancient valley until late in the Middle Ages, their principal homes being those at Troughend, Morpeth, and Close, the house at Chipchase being founded rather later than the others. Thirty years ago the connection between the Redes of Oxon, Berks and Bucks, with the Northumberland line, rested only on tradition and an identity of armorial bearings. The missing links in the chain have now been discovered, and we are able also to realize more thoroughly than before the importance of Redesdale. It must have formed something akin to a petty principality, its area exceeding that of any one among the Highland clans, while the town of Morpeth, from Redesdale. 204 Rossiana. time immemorial, has given thereunto, if not a centre, at all events headquar- ters. Our common ancestor was not only the feudal lord of Manors in Redesdale, but further had established himself as a citizen of Morpeth. Among the townships, either within the limits of Redesdale or on its borders, Bellingham enjoys pre-eminence on account of its great antiquity. Dedicated to St. Cuthbert, it appears to have been constructed as much for defensive purposes against the encroaching Scots as for its proper ecclesiastical use. The walls exceed in thickness even those of the Norman period, and the windows are thin lancets. A heavy groined roof afforded additional pro- tection against sudden attack, and here the parishioners could find sanctuary against marauders. Although substantial as regards exterior, with no other adornment than a bell tower, the interior shows traces of delicate workman- ship consisting of chancel, nave and a chantry-chapel, while the churchyard formed a very beautiful terrace overlooking the North Tyne. Within the parish of St. Cuthbert is Elsdon, divided into the following wards: Elsdon, Monkridge, Otterburn, Rochester, Troughend and Woodside. At the foot of the Cheviots rises that picturesque tributary of the Tyne, the River Rede, watering nearly the entirety of Redesdale, whereof the lords were accorded Royal privileges, analogous to those enjoyed in the South and West by the Barons of Boarstall and Burford. Of these, one may be termed unique, viz., that of trying causes before their own Justices. Elsdon Castle, now the Rectory, was built in the 14th century by Sir Robert Taylboys, whose arms, are on the southern parapet. It is a building of extraordinary strength, containing a very remarkable feature in the lower story which is spanned by a single arch. Troughend, to the west of the River Rede, comprises an estate of 26,000 acres, chiefly sheep-walks, and until the last century it remained in the possession of the family, who had held it in all likelihood from the days of Reod, since the origin of that branch cannot be traced. The old tower is mentioned in the very earliest records. It stood west- ward of the modern mansion erected by the last Redes of that ilk. Passing by the ancient forest of Northbury of old, a portion of the Rede estates, we come to another monument of the family, and a very splendid one, in Chipchase Castle. Here, as at Troughend. we have to reflect sadly on the mutability of human affairs, for the motto of the Chipchase Redes is Quimus. Their Castle rises proudly on an eminence over the North Tyne, but of the ancient building a tower only, with a projecting battlement resting on corbels, and crenelated remains. This tower contains the tattered frag- ments of curious paintings. Verily too true it is that " The old order changeth, giving place to new." The onus lies with the latter to prove that the change is an evolution and not a devolution. Long before the Norman conquest the Baronial Castle at Morpeth was in possession of the Redes. They appear to have been dispossessed, possibly owing to a conservatism that has been repeated in their subsequent story, in favour of a Walter de Morlay, or Morlaix. After changes of ownership it eventually gravitated towards the Howards, to whom it gives the dignity of Viscount. Although ejected from the Castle, the Redes continued to hold lands and tenements in the Borough, albeit with manors outside it. It would be instructive to trace the number and extent of the manors held in Redesdale Ancient Redesdale. 205 and around it by members of the Rede clan. Their estates in the efflux of centuries became absorbed gradually by other families, such as the Howards, Greys, Mitfords, and above all by the Earls of Derwentwater, whose lands and advowsons were, after the Rebellion of 1715, appropriated to the use of Greenwich Hospital. It is to the men of our name, rather than to the mouldering stones, that tell so eloquently of the past of the race, that we turn for proof of their rank and honour. Of these, one has been in a sort of back-handed fashion immortalized by the late John Edmund Reade, who, as he informed one of the family, as far back as 1858, obtained the legend in an old volume at Ship- ton Court. It runs thus: Merrily flashed the sunrays on The Castle of Morpeth bright : Gray tower, and keep, and Donjon stone In morning's purple light : Merrier within the Court, the din Of arming warriors rose, For Sir Reginald Read On his maded steed To the Border foray goes. " Fling open the gate, it waxeth late," Cried the Knight — then backward bore His rein, for a swarthy woman sate With lowering brow and eye of hate On the coping-stone of the door. " In the fiend's name say, why stoppest thou our way On the ground with thy lighted stare? Squat like a toad by the bridle road, I had nigh tramped over thee there ! " " Sir Reginald Read, I warn thee heed, Thy menials thrust me forth, But I watched day break that thou should'st make Thy peace with me on earth." Wrath lit the chieftain's eye of flame, '' Dost beg on our threshold still, And worst threat to our beards proclaim? Get to the buttery, in God's name, There feast thee at thy will." Unfortunately for Sir Reginald at this juncture, while he is rather qualifying this invitation to the buttery by some pointed remark which given in prose might be rendered " Go and be hanged," a fiery steed, disliking the evil eye of a witch, rears and the lady is left, in heraldic parlance, couchant. Of course, after the manner of her sort, she flings a malediction after his retreating form, whereunto the gentleman makes reply : " Avaunt thee, Witch ! If ill befall Or me, or mine, to-day, I'll have thee hung on the Castle wall To scare the crows away." These legends apart, the stern laws of dramatic unity compel the verifica- tion of the dark lady's prediction. In short, the ill-starred Knight, after spreading his falcon pennon, an arrangement which suggests the query 206 Rossiana. whether the falcon were a flag or the flag a falcon? and winning his foray, met with one of those untoward accidents that occur in the best regulated battles. " Pierced by a spear the chief on a bier of shields was homeward borne." The witch's reputation for second-sight was amply justified. It only remained for her, having thus adorned a tale, to point a moral. This she does by tracing a cross on the gateway of Morpeth Castle, and beneath this sacred symbol inscribing a bit of socialism more in accordance with the close of the Victorian era than with the earlier middle ages, as thus " The dead their warnings give. Spurn not the beggar in her need ; All have an equal right to live." READA AND REDESDALE. The appended extracts from two well known histories, in Latin, with their accompanying translations, are given to show that, though imperfect, notice is taken of Reada's advent into Redesdale and the giving of his name to the place : (Fordun Scotichronicon, HI). 2, capp. 12, 13.) Post cujus [i. e., Fergusii] vero regumque quarundam aliorum decessum, almepos ejus Reuther, quern Beda Readam vocat, ad regimen, regni Scotorum Albionensium succedens, ex terris Britonum quasdam extremi limitis pro- vincias versus Boream suo dominio subjugare. . . . Ubi procursu modici temporis eum suis residens parti cuidam regionis qua fixit tentoria de nomine suo Retherdale, Anglice Riddisdale, inditum est nomen hodiernum." (Translation by Hon. Howard Conkling, former Member of Assembly from Warren county, N. Y.) After whose departure (or death) truly and that of certain other Kings, his great-grandson Reuther whom Bede calls Reada (Read or Riad) suc- ceeding to the government of the Kingdom of the Scots in Albion subjugated to his own authority certain provinces of the territory of the Britons on the extreme northern boundary . . . where having advanced for a short time with his remaining forces, the present name Ritterdale, in English Rid- disdale (Redesdale) was bestowed upon a certain part of the region where he pitched his camp, from his own name. (Bede, Eel. History, I., 1.) Procedente au tern tempore, Britannia? post Brittones et Pictos, tertiam Scotorum nationem in Pictorum parte recepit ; qui, duce Reuda, de Hibernia progressi, vel amicitia vel ferro sibimet inter eos sedes quas hactenus habent. vidicarunt ; a quo videlicet duce usque hodie Dalreudini vocantur nam lingua eorum " daal " partem significat. (Translation by Rev. Mr. Whipple, M. A., rector of St. Mary's Church, Luzerne, N. Y.) But as time progressed he received in the part belonging to the Picts — the Nation of the Scots, the third (nation) of Britain after the Britons and the Picts, who having gone forth from Ireland under their leader Reuda, obtained for themselves, either by friendship or by the sword settlements among them — which they hold up to this time — from which leader even to this day they are called Dalreudini — for in their language " daal " means a part. Notes Concerning Redesdale. 207 NOTES CONCERNING REDESDALE. (From the " Local Historian's Table Book of Remarkable Occurrences," etc., Historical Division, vol. 1, by M. A. Richardson, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, 1841.) [P. 74.] 1245. — At this period there were forges in Redesdale, North- umberland, which made iron that yielded an annual rent of £4 2s. — Hodgson's Northd. [P. 96.] 1314. — Harbottle castle was demolished by the Scots, but was afterwards restored. This was part of the possessions of the Umfrevilles of Prudhoe, who held it by the service of keeping Reedsdale free from thieves and wolves, under which tenure they held the castle and manor of Otter- burn. — Hutchinson's Northd. [P. 163.] 1464 (May 15). — The Earl of Kent, who was taken in a close called Riddesdale, was brought to Newcastle and there beheaded. — Hodg- son's North., Pict. Hist. Eng. [P. 215.] 1575 (July 5). — Sir George Heron, keeper of Tindal, and Ridisdale, * * * * [P. 236] Cut of arms sculptured on the battlements of Elsdon Castle, which are supposed to be those of Sir Robert Taylboys. The inscription reads ROBERTUS DOMINUS DE REDE, i. e., Robert, Lord of Rede. The castle is known to have existed in the beginning of the fifteenth century. [P. 364.] 1727. — The figure of Robin of Risingham, or Robin of Reeds- dale, for it is known to the people of the neighbourhood by both names, has given rise to several speculations among antiquaries as to whom it was intended to represent, and at what period it was carved. Warburton, in his map of Northumberland, published previous to 1727, appears to have been the first who gave an engraving of it — to which he subjoins the following brief notice : " This antick figure I find cut on a rock near Risingham, in Readsdale, called the Soldan's stone." This celebrated figure was cut in high relief upon a huge block of " slidden " sandstone rock, on the brow of the hill, a few yards to the west of the modern Watling-street, and upon the estate called Park-head. The stone itself was five sided, six feet on the base, eight feet high, five feet on the two sides to the right of the middle of its front, seven feet on the uppermost side to the left, and four on the lower ; its thickness six feet. The figure itself was about four feet high ; had a panel above it about twenty-nine inches long and twenty broad, as if intended for an inscription, and a square block or altar opposite the right knee, probably left for the same purpose. It certainly belongs to the Roman era in Britain. The Roman panel, the altar, the Phrygian bonnet, the toga and the tunic, all tell of its Roman origin, and the hare it holds in the left hand and the bow in its right, are symbols plainly indicating that it was set up in memory of some hunter: "Venator tenerse conjugis immemor." Sir Walter Scott, in his notes to Rokeby, canto 3rd, speaking of this figure observes : " The popular tradition is that it represents a giant whose brother resided at Woodburn, and he himself at Risingham. It adds that they sub- sisted by hunting, and that one of them, finding the game become too scarce to support them, poisoned his companion, in whose memory the monument was engraven. What strange and tragic circumstances may be concealed under this legend, or whether it is utterly apocryphal, it is now impossible to 2o8 Rossiana. discover." The only part of Robin which now remains is from the waist downwards, that portion of the stone which contained the trunk and head having been broken off. The station of Rising-ham, the ancient Habitancum, is about a mile to the north of the stone ; its walls stand upon or inclose nearly four acres and a half of dry, rich ground on the southern margin of the river Rede. Numerous altars and inscriptions have been found in this neighbourhood. — Hodgson's North., Rambles in Northd., &c. [Accompanying this paragraph, on p. 305, is a woodcut representing Robin of Risingham as above described.] 1 (From Historical Division, Vol. 2, pages 329. 330, 1S42. ) 1789 (Nov. 15). — Died, in St. Nicholas' poor-house, Newcastle, of which he was the keeper. .Mr. William Umfraville. His father, Mr. Thomas Umfra- ville, who died June 28th, ijX.v was for 40 years parish clerk of St. John's, in that town, and had formerly been a merchant there. He was a descendant of one of the greatest nanus and most illustrious families in the north. The pedigree traces back the family to Robert de Umfraville, called Robert with the Beard, lord of Tours and Yian. who came into England with William the Conqueror. This Robert bad a grant from the Conqueror, in the tenth year of his reign, of the valley of Ridds, or Redesdale, with all its castles, woods and franchises, to hold of him and his heirs forever, by the service of defending that part of the country from wolves and the king's enemies by the sword which the said King William wore at his side when he entered Northumberland. Mr. William Umfraville had. in his custody, a sword which belonged to Sir Robert Umfraville, vice-admiral of England about the time of Richard 11. Mr. Umfraville died in very indigent circum- stances, leaving a widow, with an only son and daughter, without any means of support. The late Duke of Northumberland, hearing that a descendant of the once-powerful family of the Umfravilles had died in such humble circumstances, kindly allowed an annuity to the widow and undertook the charge of educating and providing for the son. John Brand Umfraville, for whom, wdien of a proper age, his grace obtained the situation of midshipman in the royal navy. He ultimately rose to the rank of captain and died a few years ago without issue. — Rambles in Northd. In the same work. Historical Division. Vol. V.. MDCCCXLVI, p. 41-'. 1842 (Oct. 12). — Died, at his resident in Albion Place. Newcastle, aged 54. John Trotter Brockett, Esq.. F. S. A.. London and Newcastle. [The armorial bearings, with the motto. Invictus Maneo, are given.] 1 Kobin, or Robert, of Redesdale. — Another tradition has it that this Robin or Robert was one of the earliest chiefs of the name of Rede, a short time after the tribe came into Redesdale; that he had a brother, and that they were both men of extraor- dinary stature. This brother became jealous of Robert's power and slew him while they were hunting, thus making himself chief of the clan. H. P. R. ELSDON IN 1762. TWO very interesting and amusing letters written in 1762 by the Rev. Charles Dodgson, A. M., on his taking possession of the rectory of Elsdon, in Redesdale, Northumberland, are given below as printed in the " Local Historian's Table Book of Remarkable Occurrences, Historical Facts," etc. (Newcastle-upon-Tyne, 1843.) These letters are curious, inasmuch as they furnish a lively account of the appearance of Elsdon nearly a century and a half ago. In some instances we believe the picture to be rather exaggerated ; but the occasional sprinkling of humour over certain passages, and the spirit with which the whole is con- ceived and executed, impress us with the belief that the writer had been a man of considerable talent. From the freedom of his manner, he would seem to have been very intimate with the Percy family, and to have had. therefore, no hesitation in giving his correspondents a sketch to the life, not only of himself, but of the people amongst whom he had taken up his residence. His recent arrival in the district, and the consequent novelty with which he regarded it, together with the severe weather he encountered, render his description very animated and by no means deficient of graphic power. Rev. Dr. Dodgson was presented to the rectory of Elsdon, in 1762, by the Earl and Countess of Northumberland. His residence there was of short duration, for he became bishop of Ossory in 1765, from which see he was translated to that of Elphin : " Elsdon, March 2SH1, 1762. " My Dear Mr. Percy, I am obliged to you for promising to write to me, but don't give yourself the trouble of sending any letters to this place, for 'tis almost impossible to receive 'em without sending a messenger 16 miles to fetch 'em, and nothing is so difficult to be procured as a messenger. I had the pleasure to find your Grandmamma very well as I passed through York. My journey produced a great deal of pleasure till I reached Darlington, when I quitted the coach and be- gan to fly, but my wings soon failed me, for the post horses which I hired at Durham were Elsdon Church not able to move an inch farther than the 9th mile stone. After an age of expectation a return chaise from Newcastle approached, but alas ! it was pre-engaged by some poor travellers, and the post boy was unwilling to comply with my request : I seized the horses, bribed the passengers to quit the chaise, and at last prevailed upon the boy 210 Rossiana. to back to Newcastle. He was so pleased with the premium proposed that he drove at the rate of 12 miles an hour for I went 6 miles in about 34 minutes. About 3 miles to the south of Newcastle, I met with such a shower of hail and such a hurricane, that I expected to be blown over, if not carried into the sea every moment. The weather continued very tempestuous all the afternoon, however by the assistance of two determined postillions, and four good horses which I procured at Newcastle, I pro- ceeded in my journey though the storm was full in our faces, and arrived at this place about seven o'clock last night. I was scarcely able to go through the duty to-day, having got a very bad sore throat, but I hope it is now more easy than it was. I am obliged to be my own surgeon, apothecary and physician, for there is not a creature of that profession within 16 miles of this place: 'tis impossible to describe the oddity of my situation at present, which however is not void of some pleasant circumstances. A clog maker combs out my wig upon my curate's head by way of a block, and his wife powders it with a dredging box. The vestibule of the castle is a low stable, above it is the kitchen in which are two little beds, joining to each other, the curate and his wife lay in one and Margery the maid in the Other. I lay in the parlour between two beds to keep me from being frozen to death, for as we keep open house the winds enter from every quarter, and are apt *.o creep into bed to one. 1 will write very soon to my lord or lady; pray present my respects, duties and compliments to Messrs. Reveleys. I remain &c. Dodgson." " Elsdon. March 30//1. " My Lord, I wrote to Mr. Percy a few days ago, and gave him a short account of the most material things which happened upon the road and immediately after my arrival at this place. If your lordship can spare a few moments, the continuation of my narrative will perhaps afford as much entertainment as a cmmon newspaper, tho' it will be greatly inferior to an excellent gazette. Elsdon was once a market town, as some say, and a city according to others; Inn as the annals of the parish were lost several centuries ago, 'tis impossible to determine in what age it was either the one or the other. There are not the least traces of its former grandeur to be found whence some antiquarians are apt to believe that it lost both its trade and character at the deluge. Most certain it is. that the oldest man in the parish never saw a market here in his life. Modern Elsdon. my lord ( for I am not now speaking of the Antediluvian city of the same name), is a very small village consisting of a tower which the inhabitants call a castle, an inn for the refreshment of Scotch carriers, five little farm houses, and a few wretched cottages, about ten in all, inhabited by poor people who receive the parish allowance, and superannuated shepherds. These buildings such as they are may be conceived to stand at very unequal distances from one another, in the circumference of an imaginary oval, the longer axis of which coincides with the meridian line and is about 200 yards long, the shorter may be perhaps 100. In the centre of this supposed ellipsis stands the church which is very small, without Elsdon in i /6s. 211 cither a spire or a tower, however the west end is not totally void of an ornamental superstructure. An Elsdonic kind of cupola forms a proper place for a belfry, and the only bell which is in it is almost as loud as that which calls your lordship's labourers to dinner at Sion. It may be heard at the castle when the wind is favourable. The situation of the village is such that in descending down a hill called Gallalaw from the south, it gives a person an idea of a few cottages built in a boggy island which is almost sur- rounded by three little brooks, on the north by Dunsheeles burn, on the east by Elsdon burn, on the west and south west by Whiskersheeles burn; the first runs into the second on the north east part of the town, and the second into the third on the south side. There is not a town in all the parish except Elsdon itself be called one, the farm houses where the principal parishioners live are five or six miles distant from one another and the whole country looks like a desert. The greater part of the richest farmers are Scotch dissenters, and go to a meeting house at Birdhopecrag, about ten miles from Elsdon, however they don't interfere in ecclesiastical matters, nor study polemical divinity. Their re- ligion descends from father to son and is rather a part of the personal estate, than the result of reasoning or the effects of enthusiasm. — those who live near Elsdon come to the church, those at a greater distance towards v^j the west go to the meeting house at Birdhopecrag. Others, both churchmen and Presbyterians, at a very great distance, go to the Elsdon Castle. nearest church or convent- icle in a neighbouring parish. There is a very good understanding between the parties for they not only intermarry with each other, but frequently do penance together in a white sheet, with a white wand, barefoot, in one of the coldest churches in England, and at the coldest season of the year: I dare not finish the description for fear of bring- ing on a fit of ague. Indeed, my lord, the ideas of sensation are sufficient to starve a man to death, without having recourse to those of reflection. If I was not assured by the best authority on earth that the world was to be destroyed by fire, I should conclude that the day of destruction is at hand, but brought on by means of an agent very opposite to that of heat. There is not a single tree or hedge now within twelve miles to break the force of the wind ; it sweeps down like a deluge from hills capped with everlasting snow and blasts almost the whole country into one continued barren desert. The whole country is doing penance in a white sheet for it began to snow on Sunday night, and the storm has continued ever since. Its impossible to make a sally out of the castle and to make my quarters good in a warmer habitation. I have lost the use of every thing but my reason, tho' my head is entrenched in three night caps, and my throat, which is very bad, is 212 Rossi an a. fortified with a pair of stockings twisted in the form of a cravat. My capital 1 is of a new construction. I wish I could send your lordship a drawing of it. Irregular and unarchitectural as it might appear to your lordship's judicious eye. 'tis certainly of the composite order, and extremely becoming a block- head, of which numerous society I have the honor of being a member. As washing is very cheap I wear two shirts at a time, and for want of a ward- robe hang my great coat upon my own back, and generally keep on my boots in imitation of my namesake 2 of Sweden. Indeed, since the snow became two feet deep (as I wanted a chappin of yale from the public house) I made an offer of them to Margery, the maid, but her legs are too thick to make use of the offer, and I am told that the greater part of my parishioners are not less substantial, and notwithstanding this they are very remarkable for their agility. There is to be a hopping on Thursday se'nnight. A hop- ping, my lord, is a ball, the constant conclusion of a pedlar's fair. Upon these celebreties there is a great concourse of braw lads and lasses, who throw off their wooden shoes shod with plates of iron, and put on Scotch nickerers, which are made of horse leather, the upper part of which is sewed to the sole without being welted. We expect a great deal of company from fifty-eight and mure different places in the neighborhood. Your lordship will excuse my want of memory when 'tis considered how short time I have been in the parish, and I'll endeavour to complete my catalogue as soon as possible. 1 propose to do myself the honour of writing to her ladyship after I have reconnoitered the field of battle at Ottcrburn. But God only knows when I shall be able to get out. Permit me my lord to remain with my duty to Lady Northumberland and Mr. Percy, with my compliments to both the Air. Reveleys. and with my kindest wishes for the completion of Mr. Hugh's recovery. I am &c. Dodgson." "P. S. — If I had not brought this paper with me. I should have been obliged to write upon such a composition as was never seen. The summer will exhibit a more pleasing prospect, for all the heather or ling will be in full bloom, and the sides of Gallalaw covered with verdure, and I hope the valleys will laugh and sing. The inhabitants are very fond of a pastoral life, but seem to have no taste for agriculture. The enclosed lands are only separated by a dry ditch and a low bank of earth. The sheep, as Milton says, at one bound would overleap all bounds. Quicksetts would grow but the people are enemies to hedges because the sheep would be entangled in them. The manner in which a herd (shepherd) lives upon the moors. especially in bad weather, will draw tears from your lordship's eyes, when it is described in the most simple manner. I wish I had not stumbled upon the remembrance of it. If a tear is due to misery — if — I am glad I cannot proceed for want of paper. I'll now sit down and do what your lordship would have done if I had finished this storv." 'Head, or covering for it. -Charles XII. "THE DEATH OF PARCY REED." Ancient Ballad Concerning the Sad End of the Lord of Troughenp, " Taken Down by James Telfer from Recitation, with an Intro- duction by Robert White." [From " The Local Historian's Table Book of Remarkable Occurrences, etc., 1844, Legendary Division, vol. 2, pages 361 et seq.] THE event on which the following ballad was founded has been incident- ally noticed by Sir Walter Scott, in " Rokeby," and by my revered friend Mr. Robert Roxby, in the " Lay of the Reedwater Minstrel." We have no historical evidence to prove at what period it occurred, but as the farm of Girsonsfield belonged to those who betrayed Parcy Reed and successive owners of Otterburne demesne ever since the reign of Elizabeth, we may assign it a date not later than the sixteenth century. 1 It would appear to have taken a remarkably strong hold of the public mind, for almost every circumstance connected therewith has. by tradition, been distinctly transmitted down to the present day: consequently, an outline of the same, traced in the light which can thus be obtained, may not altogether be uninteresting to those who may honour the ballad with a perusal. Percival or Parcy Reed was proprietor of Troughend, an elevated tract of land on the west side and nearly in the centre of Redesdale, Northumberland. The remains of the old tower may still be seen, a little to the west of the present mansion, commanding a beautiful and most extensive view of nearly the whole valley. Here he resided, and being a keen hunter 2 and brave sol- dier, he possessed much influence, and was appointed warden or keeper of the district. His office was to suppress and order the apprehension of thieves and other breakers of the law, in the execution of which he incurred the displeasure of a family of brothers of the name of Hall, who were owners of Girsonsfield, a farm about two miles east from Troughend ; he also drew upon himself the hostility of a band of mosstroopers, Crosier by name, some of whom he had been successful in bringing to justice. The former were, however, artful enough to conceal their resentment, and under the appear- ance of friendship, calmly awaited an opportunity to be avenged. Some time afterwards they solicited his attendance en a hunting expedition to the head of Redesdale, and, unfortunately, he agreed to accompany them. His wife had some strange dreams anent his safety on the night before his departure, and at breakfast on the following morning the loaf of bread from which he was supplied chanced to be turned with the bottom upwards — an omen a If this event happened in the sixteenth century or before, the name should be spelled Rede or Read, for these were the forms then in use in Redesdale. 2 It once fell out that an arrow, which he discharged at a deer, killed a favourite dog named Keilder. This incident has been made the subject of a beautiful painting by Cooper, which again elici'ed from Sir Walter Scott a poem of eleven stanzas. See Legendary Division, II, p. 240. 214 Rossiana. which is still accounted most unfavourable all over the north of England. Considering these presages undeserving of notice, Reed set out in company with the Halls, and after enjoying a good day's sport, the party withdrew to a solitary hut in Batinghope, a lonely glen stretching westward from the Whitelee, whose little stream forms one of the chief sources of Reedwater. The whole of this arrangement had been previously planned by the Halls and Crosiers, and when the latter came down late in the evening to execute their purpose of vengeance, they found Parcy Reed altogether a defenceless man. His companions not only deserted him, but had previously driven his sword so firmly in its scabbard that it could not be drawn, and had, also, moistened the powder with which the long gun he carried with him was charged, so as to render both useless when he came to rely upon them for protection. Accordingly the Crosiers instantly put him to death, and so far did they carry out their sanguinary measures even against his lifeless body, that tradition says the fragments thereof had to be collected together and con- veyed in pillow slips home to Troughend. Public indignation was speedily aroused against the murderers: the very name of Crosier was abhorred throughout Redesdale, and the abettors were both driven from their residence and designated as "the fause hearted Ha's " — an appellation which yet remains in force against them. 1 Superstition, afterwards, lent her powerful aid to embellish and heighten this tragical occurrence. Shortly after daybreak, or in the twilight of the evening, the resemblance of Parcy Reed was often seen in the vicinity of Batinghope, hurrying over the heath, arrayed in his green hunting dress, his horn by his side, and his long gun over his shoulder. Again, on a stormy night, when the clouds were careering athwart the sky, permitting occasionally a glimpse of moonlight to hasten over the darkened landscape, the likeness of the murdered man was frequently beheld in the neighbourhood of his own mansion, dealing destruction around him with a large whip so furiously that the very trees were threatened to be struck down. Even within the last century and in the broad light of a Sabbath forenoon, while the good people in the upper part of Redesdale were proceeding to the meeting house at Bird- hope-craig. they often beheld the flitting spirit of Troughend, as he was called, under the mild semblance of a dove, take its station on a large stone in the middle of the Reed at Pringlehaugh, and if any of the party made a bow or a curtsey towards it, by way of compliment, it very graciously returned the salutation. These examples show the deep impression which the tragical fate of Parcy Reed left on the memory of the inhabitants of Redesdale, and exhibit how easily any natural cause or object may, amongst a pastoral people, be construed into one of the shadows of that region beyond the dark bourne which circumscribes our present existence. The annexed ballad was never before published, having been taken down by my valued friend. Mr. James Telfer of Saughtree. Liddesdale, from the lv Vhen a late landlord of Horsley in Redesdale, whose name was Hall, a most respect- able man, had taken his allowance freely, he not unfrequently disburdened his mind by thus reverting to the circumstance: " Wey now, Aw wunna disguise me neame — me neame's Tommy Ha';" — and here the tears began to flow down the cheeks of the worthy host, '• but Aw trust to me meaker, A'm nit come o' the fause hearted Ha's that betrayed Parcy Reed." Death of Parcy Reed. 215 chanting of an old woman named Kitty Hall, who resided at Fairloans in the head of Kale water, Roxburghshire. She was a native of Northumberland, and observed she never liked to sing the verses, as she knew them to be perfectly true, and consequently could not bear to think that there had been, of her own surname, such wretches as the betrayers of Parcy Reed. Mr. Telfer had the honor of presenting a transcript of the piece to Sir Walter Scott, who placed it at the end of his copy of the " Lay of the Reedwater Minstrel;" and both now occupy a place in Press P, shelf i. at the library of Abbotsford. Touching the literary merit of the ballad, little in the way of either plot or graphic description may be found calculated to command the admiration of those who are accustomed to look critically upon such compositions. It is rude and simple in its structure, but perhaps its principal defect arises from the dialogue being so painfully protracted towards the close. The aim of the Minstrel undoubtedly was to convey a representation of what may be sup- posed to have taken place, when his hero fell into the hands of implacable enemies ; and this he has accomplished, although neither with such spirit, nor, at the same time, with such unapproachable felicity as some of his more tuneful brethren at that age exhibited, when sounding those strains of ballad minstrelsy, which now form so precious a portion of our country's literature. I cannot allow the opportunity of concluding these remarks to pass, with- out adverting to the circumstances, and it is with peculiar pleasure I do so, of having spent a portion of my early life in Redesdale, and of enjoying on many occasions, the unaffected courtesy and kindness of its people. Indeed the district sounds still in my ears like home; and my heart throbs deeper on recollecting the evenings I passed there, when a number of faces, now no more, gleamed bright about our family hearth. Other attractions likewise, bind me closely to Redesdale. To throw gracefully the names of its localities into verse was a subject embraced by the early muse of Mr. Roxby, whose subsequent numbers, brief but beautiful, have at times contributed to render it no small honour. In addition to this, we have in its limits the field of Otterburne — the actual scene not only of the best contested battles ever fought in the time of chivalry ; but also of one of our most ancient and spirit-stirring national ballads. Whether, therefore, in a domestic, or a liter- ary point of view, the tract of country possesses a claim upon me, to which my feelings cordially respond ; hence, its sheltered nooks, its sloping fields and solitary moorlands, with their innumerable associations, are amongst the last objects I shall forget. THE DEATH OF PARCY REED. God send the land deliverance Frae every reaving, riding Scot : We'll sune hae neither cow nor ewe, We'll sune hae neither staig nor stot. The outlaws come frae Liddesdale, They herry Redesdale far and near ; 1 he rich man's gelding it maun gang, They canna pass the puir man's raear. 2i6 Rossiana. Sure it were weel, had ilka thief Around his neck a halter Strang; And curses heavy may they light On traitors vile oursel's amang. Now Parcy Reed has Crosier ta'en, He has delivered him to the law; But Crosier says he'll do waur than that. He'll make the tower o' Troughend fa'. And Crosier says he will do waur — He will do waur if waur can be; He'll make the bairns a' fatherless. And then, the land it may lie lee. "To the hunting, ho!" cried Parcy Reed. " The morning sun is on the dew : The cauler breeze frae off the fells. Will lead the dogs to the quarry true. "To the hunting, ho!" cried Parcy Reed. And to the hunting he has gane ; And the three fause Ha's o' Girsonsfield Alang wi' him he has them ta'en. They hunted high, they hunted low, By heathery hill and birken shaw ; They raised a buck on Rooken Edge. And blew the mort at fair Ealylawe. They bunted high, they hunted low, They made the echoes ring amain ; With music sweet o' horn and hound. They merry made fair Redes laic glen. They bunted high, they hunted low, They hunted up, they hunted down. Until the day w is past the prune. And it grew late in the afternoon. They hunted high in Batinghope, When as the sun was sinking low; Says Parcy then: " Ca' off the dogs; We'll bait our steeds and homeward go. They lighted high in Batinghope. Atween the brown and bcnty ground : They had but rested a little while. Till Parcy Reed was sleeping sound. There's nane may lean on a rotten staff. But him that risks to get a fa' ; There's nane may in a traitor trust, And traitors black were every Ha'. Death of Parcy Reed. 217 They've stown the bridle off his steed. And they've put water in his lang gun ; They've fixed his sword within the sheath. That out again it winna come. "Awaken ye, waken ye, Parcy Reed Or by your enemies be ta'en ; For yonder are 'he five Crosiers A-coming ower the Hingin'-stane." "If they be five, and we be four, Sae that ye stand alang wi' me. Then every man ye will take one, And only leave but two to me: We will them meet as brave men ought. And make them either fight or flee." " We mayna stand, we canna stand. We daurna stand alang wi' thee ; The Crosiers baud thee at a feud. And they would kill baith thee and we." " O turn thee, turn thee, Johnnie Ha' — turn thee, man, and fight wi' me; 1 When ye come to Troughend again, My gude black naig I will gie thee ; He cost full twenty pounds o' gowd, Atween my brother John and me." " I mayna turn, I canna turn, 1 daurna turn and light wi' thee ; The Crosiers hand thee at a feud, And they wad kill baith thee and me." " O turn thee, turn thee. Willie Ha' — turn thee, man, and fight wi' me ; When ye come to Troughend again. A yoke o' owsen I'll gie thee." " I mayna turn, T canna turn, 1 daurna turn and right wi' thee; The Crosiers hand thee at a feud, And they wad kill baith thee and me." " O turn thee, turn thee, Tommy Ha' — O turn now, man, and fight wi' me ; If ever we come to Troughend again. My daughter Jean I'll gie to thee." 'I. e., along with me. 2l8 Rossiana. " I mayna turn, I canna turn, I daurna turn and fight wi' thee ; The Crosiers hand thee at a feud, And they wad kill baith thee and me." " shame upon ye. traitors a". I wish your names ye may never see ; Ye've stown the bridle off my naig. And I can neither right nor flee. " Ye've stown the bridle off my naig, And ye've put water i' my lang gun ; Ye've fixed my sword within the sheath. That out again it winna come." He had but time to cross himsel' — A prayer he hadna time to say, Till round him came the Crosiers keen, All riding graithed. and in array. " Weel met. weel met. now Parcy Reed, Thou art the very man we sought ; Owre lang hae we been in your debt. Now will we pay you as we ought. " We'll pay thee at the nearest tree. Where we shall hang thee like a hound." Brave Parcy waved his fankit 1 sword And felled the foremost to the ground. Alake. and wae for Parcy Reed — Alake he was an unarmed man : Four weapons pierced him all at once. As they assailed him there and than. They fell upon him all at once : They mangled him most cruellie : The slightest wound might caused his deid. And they hae gi'en him thirty three. They hackit off his hands and feet And left him lying on the lee. " Xow Parcy Reed, we've paid our debt. Ye canna weel dispute the tale." The Crosiers said, and off they rade — They rade the airt o' Liddesdale. It was the hour o' gloaming gray. When herds come in frae fauld and pen : A herd, he saw a huntsman lie, Savs he. ''Can this be Laird T roughen'? 'Confined, or sheathed. Death of Farcy Reed. 219 " There's some will ca' me Parcy Reed. And some will ca' me Laird Troughen' : It's little matter what they ca' me ; My faes hae made me ill to ken. " There's some will ca' me Parcy Reed, And speak my praise in tower and town ; It's little matter what they do now. My life blood rudds 1 the heather brown. " There's some will ca' me Parcy Reed, And a' my virtues say and sing; I would much rather have just now A draught o' water f rae the spring ! " The herd flang aff his clouted shoon. And to the nearest fountain ran ; He made his bonnet serve as cup And wan the blessing o' the dying man. " Now honest herd, ye maun do mair — Ye maun do mair as I you tell ; Ye maun bear tiding to Troughend, And bear likewise my last farewell. " A farewell to my wedded wife ; And farewell to my brother John, Wha sits into the Troughend tower, With heart as hard 2 as any stone. " A farewell to my daughter Jean ; A farewell to my young sons five : Had they been at their father's hand, I had this night been man alive. " A farewell to my followers a'. And a' my neighbors gude at need ; Bid them think how the treacherous Ha's Betrayed the life o' Parcy Reed. "The laird o'Clennel bears my bow; The laird o' Brandon bears my brand ; Whene'er they ride i' the Border side. They'll mind the fate o' the laird Troughend." 1 Reddens. -Black in the original. PEDIGREE OF THE CLAN OF REDE, OR READ. THE descent of the Clan of Rede, or Read (from Carbry Riada, or Reoda), beginning with the first man Adam, and so down to Milesius of Spain, and thence through the ancient monarchs of Ireland and the kings of Dalriada to the royal bouse of Scotland, is taken from " Irish Pedigrees," by John O'Hart, Q. U. I.. Dublin, 1S81, though much of the information had previously appeared in the works of the " Four Masters," 1 so-called. This line of descent is printed her.- more as a genealogical curiosity than as an authen- ticated statement. Stem of the Irish Nation from Adam Down to Milesius of Spain. " God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, who was from all eternity, did, in the beginning of Time, of nothing, create Red Earth; and of Red Earth framed Adam ; and of a Rib out of the side of Adam fashioned Eve. After which Creation, Plasmation, and Formation, succeeded Generations, as follows." — Four Masters. 1. Adam. 2. Seth. 3. Enos. 4. Cainan. 5. Mahalaleel. 6. Jared. 7. Enoch X. Methuselah. 9. Lamecb. 10. Noah divided the world amongst his three sons, begotten of his wife Titea : viz., to Sbem he gave Asia, within the Euphrates, to the Indian Ocean; to Ham he gave Syria, Arabia, and Africa ; and to Japhet, the rest of Asia beyond the Euphrates, together with Europe to Gades (or Cadiz). 11. Japhet was the eldest son of Noah. He had fifteen sons, amongst whom he divided Europe and the part of Asia which his father had allotted to him. 1 The " Four Masters " were so called because Michael O'Clery, Peregrine O'Clery, Conary O'Clery, together with Peregrine O'Duigenan (a learned antiquary of Kilronan, in the County Roscommon), were the four principal compilers of the ancient annals of Ireland in the 17th century. Besides the above-named authors, however, two other emi- nent antiquaries and chroniclers assisted in the compilation of the annals — namely, Ferfassa O'Mulconry and Maurice O'Mulconry, both of the County Roscommon. Pedigree of the Clan of Rede, or Read. 221 12. Magog: From whom descended the Parthians, Bactrians, Amazons, etc.; Partholan, the first planter of Ireland, 1 about three hundred years after the Flood; and also the rest of the colonies that planted there, viz., the Nemedians, who planted Ireland, Anno Mundi three thousand and forty-six, or three hundred and eighteen years after the birth of Abraham, and two thousand one hundred and fifty-three years before Christ. The Nemedians continued in Ireland for two hundred and seventeen years ; within which time a colony of theirs went into the northern parts of Scotland, under the conduct of their leader Briottan Maol, or Babel; from whom Britain takes its name, and not from " Brutus," as some persons believed. From Magog were also descended the Belgarian, Belgian, Firbolgian or Firvolgian colony that succeeded the Nemedians, Anno Mundi, three thousand two hundred and sixty-six, and who first erected Ireland into a Monarchy. [According to some writers, the Fomorians invaded Ireland next after the Nemedians.] This Belgarian or Firvolgian colony continued in Ireland for thirty-six years, under nine of their Kings ; when they were supplanted by the Tuatha-de- Danans (which means, according to some authorities, " the people of the god Dan," whom they adored), who possessed Ireland for one hundred and ninety-seven years, during the reigns of nine of their kings ; and who were then conquered by the Gaelic, Milesian, or Scotic Nation, (the three names by which the Irish people were known), Anno Mundi three thousand five hundred. This Milesian or Scotic Irish Nation possessed and enjoyed the Kingdom of Ireland for two thousand eight hundred and eighty-five years, under one hundred and eighty-three Monarchs ; until their submission to King Henry the Second of England, Anno Domini one thousand one hundred and eighty-six. 13. Baoth, one of the sons of Magog; to whom Scythia came as his lot. upon the division of the Earth by Noah amongst his sons, and by Japhet of his part thereof amongst his sons. 14. Phoeniusa Farsaidh (or Fenius Farsa) was King of Scythia, at the time that Ninus ruled the Assyrian Empire; and, being a wise man and desirous to learn the languages that not long before confounded the builders llreland: According to the Four Masters, " Ireland " is so called from Ir, the second son of Milesius of Spain who left any issue. It was known to the ancients by the following names: — To the Irish as— 1. Inis Ealga, or the Noble Isle. 2. Fiodh-Inis, or the Woody Island. 3. Crioch Fuinidh, the final or most remote Country. 4. Inis-Fail, or the Island of Destiny. 5. Fodhla. learned. 6. Banba (from the Irish banabh, a sucking pig). 7. Eire, Eri, Eirin, and Erin, supposed by some to signify the Western Isle. 8. Muig Inis, meaning the Island of Mist or Melancholy. To the Greeks and Romans as— 9. Ierne. Ierna, Iernis, Iris, and Irin. 10. Ivernia, Ibernia, Hibernia, Juvernia, Jouvernia, Hiberia, Hiberione, and Verna. 11. Insula Sacra. 12. Ogy-gia, or the Most Ancient land. (Plutarch, in the first century of the Christian era, calls Ireland by the name Ogy-gia; and Camden says that Ireland is justly called Ogy-gia, as the Irish, he says, can trace their history from the most remote antiquity: Hence O'Flaherty has adopted the name "Ogy-gia" for his celebrated work, in Latin, on Irish history and antiquities.) 13. Scotia. 14. Insula Sanctorum. To the Anglo-Saxons as — 15. Eire-land. To the Danes as — 16. Irlandi, and Irar. To the Anglo-Normans as — 17. Irelande. 222 Rossiana. of the Tower of Babel, employed able and learned men to go among the dispersed multitude to learn their several languages ; who sometime after returning well skilled in what they went for, Phceniusa Farsaidh erected a school in the valley of Senaar, near the city of .Eothena, in the forty-second year of the reign of Ninus; whereupon, having continued there with his younger son Niul for twenty years, he returned home to his kingdom, which, at his death, he left to his eldest son Nenuall : leaving to Niul no other patrimony than his learning and the benefit of the said school. 15. Niul, after his father returned to Scythia, continued some time at jEothena, teaching the languages and other laudable sciences, until upon report of his great learning he was invited into Egypt by Pharaoh, the King; who gave him the land of Campus Cyrunt, near the Red Sea, to inhabit, and his daughter Scota in marriage: from whom their posterity are ever since called Scots ; but, according to some annalists, the name " Scots " is derived frmn the word Scythia. It was this Niul that employed Gaodhal [Gael], son of Ethor, a learned and skilful man, to compose or rather refine and adorn the language, called Bearla Tobbai, which was common to all Niul's posterity, and afterwards GaodJiilg (or Gaelic), from the said Gaodhal who composed or refined it; and for his sake also Niul called his own eldest son " Gaodhal." [The following is a translation of an extract from the derivation of this proper name, as given in Halliday's Vol. of Keating' s Irish History, page 230: " Antiquaries assert that the name of Gaodhal is from the compound word formed of ' gaoith ' and ' dil,' which means a lover of learning; for, ' gaoith ' is the same as zvisdom or learning, and 'dil' is the same as loving or fond]. 16. Gaodhal (or Gathelus), the son of Niul, was the ancestor of the Clan-na-Gael, that is, " the children or descendants of Gaodhal." In his youth this Gaodhal was stung in the neck by a serpent, and was immediately brought to Moses, who, laying his Rod upon the wounded place, instantly cured him: whence followed the word " Glas " to be added to his name, as Gaodal Glas (glas: Irish, green; Lat. glaucus; Gr. glaukos), on account of the green scar which the word signifies, and which, during his life, remained on his neck after the wound was healed. And Gaodhal obtained a further blessing, namely — that no venomous beast can live any time where his posterity should inhabit ; which is verified in Creta or CandL, Gothia or Getulia, Ireland, etc. The Irish chroniclers affirm that from this time Gaodhal and his posterity did paint the figures of Beasts, Birds, etc., on their banners and shields, to distinguish their tribes and septs, in imitation of the Israelites ; and that a " Thunderbolt " was the cognizance in their chief standard for many generations after this Gaodhal. 17. Asruth, after his father's death, continued in Egypt, and governed his colony in peace during his life. 18. Sruth, soon after his father's death, was (see the Dedication of the Second Series) set upon by the Egyptians, on account of their former animosities towards their predecessors for having taken part with the Israelites against them ; which animosities until then lay raked up in the embers, and now broke out in a flame to that degree, that after many battles and conflicts, wherein most of his colony lost their lives, Sruth Pedigree of the Clan of Rede, or Read. 223 was forced with the few remaining to depart the country ; and, after many traverses at sea. arrived at the Island of Creta (now called Candia), where he paid his last tribute to nature. 19. Heber Scut (scut: Irish, a Scot), after his father's death and a year's stay in Creta, departed thence, leaving some of his people to inhabit the Island, where some of their posterity likely still remain; "because the Island breeds no venomous serpent ever since." He and his people soon after arrived in Scythia; where his cousins, the posterity of Nenuall (eldest son of Fenius Farsa, above mentioned), refusing to allot a place of habitation for him and his colony, they fought many battles wherein Heber (with the assistance of some of the natives who were ill-affected towards their king), being always victor, he at length forced the sovereignty from the other, and settled himself and his colony in Scythia, who continued there for four generations. Hence the epithet Scut, "a Scot" or "a Scythian," was applied to this Heber, who is accordingly called Heber Scot. Heber Scot was after- wards slain in battle by Noemus the former king's son. 20. Beouman; 21. Ogaman; and 22. Tait, were each kings of Scythia, but in constant war with the natives ; so that after Tait's death his son, 23. Agnon and his followers betook themselves to sea, wandering and coasting upon the Caspian Sea for several (some say seven) years, in which time he died. 24. Lamhfionn and his fleet remained at sea for some time after his father's death, resting and refreshing themselves upon such islands as they met with. It was then that Cachear, their magician or Druid, foretold that there would be no end of their peregrinations and travel until they should arrive at the Western Island of Europe, .now called Ireland, which was the place destined for their future and lasting abode and settlement; and that not they but their posterity after three hundred years should arrive there. After many traverses of fortune at sea, this little fleet with their leader arrived at last and landed at Gothia or Getulia — more recently called Lybia, where Carthage was afterwards built ; and soon after, Lamhfionn died there. 25. Heber Glunfionn was born in Getulia, where he died. His posterity continued there to the eighth generation ; and were kings or chief rulers there for one hundred and fifty years — some say three hundred years. 26. Agnan Fionn ; 27. Febric Glas; 28. Nenuall; 29. Nuadhad; 30. Alladh; 31.. Arcadh; and 32. Deag: of these nothing remarkable is mentioned, but that they lived and died kings in Gothia or Getulia. SS- Brath was born in Gothia. Remembering the Druid's prediction, and his people having considerably multiplied during their abode in Getulia, he departed thence with a numerous fleet to seek out the country destined for their final settlement, by the prophecy of Cachear, the Druid above men- tioned; and, after some time, he landed upon the coast of Spain, and by strong hand settled himself and his colony in Galicia, in the north of that country. 34. Breoghan (or Brigus) was king of Galicia, Andalusia, Murcia, Castile, and Portugal — all of which he conquered. He built Breoghan's Tower or Brigantia in Galicia, and the city of Brigansa or Braganza in Portugal — called after him; and the kingdom of Castile was then also called after him 22A Rossiana. Brigia. It is considered that " Castile " itself was so called from the figure of a castle which Brigus bore from his Arms on his banner. Brigus sent a colony into Britain, who settled in that territory now known as the counties of York, Lancaster, Durham, Westmoreland, and Cumberland, and, after him, were called Brigantes; whose posterity gave formidable opposition to the Romans at the time of the Roman invasion of Britain. 35. Bile was king of those countries after his father's death; and his son Galamh [galav] or Milesius succeeded him. This Bile had a brother named Ithe. 36. Milesius, in his youth and during his father's life-time, went into Scythia, where he was kindly received by the king of that country, who gave him his daughter in marriage, and appointed him General of his forces. In this capacity Milesius defeated the king's enemies, gained much fame, and the love of all the king's subjects. His growing greatness and popularity excited against him the jealousy of the king; who, fearing the worst, resolved on privately despatching Milesius out of the way, for, openly, he dare not attempt it. Admonished of the king's intentions in his regard, Milesius slew him; and thereupon quitted Scythia and retired into Egypt with a fleet of sixty sail. Pharaoh Xectonibns, then king of Egypt, being informed of his arrival and of his great valour, wisdom, and conduct in arms, made him General of all his forces against the king of Ethiopia then invading his country. Here, as in Scythia, Milesius was victorious; he forced the- enemy to submit to the conqueror's own terms of peace. By these exploits Milesius found great favour with Pharaoh, who gave him. being then a widower, his daughter Scota in marriage; and kept him eight years afterwards in Egypt. During the sojourn of Milesius in Egypt, he employed the most ingenious and able persons among his people to be instructed in the several trades, arts, and sciences used in Egypt; in order to have them taught to the rest of his people on his return to Spain. [The original name of Milesius of Spain was, as already mentioned, "Galamh" (gall: Irish, a stranger; amh, a negative affix), which means no stranger: meaning that he was no stranger in Egypt, where he was called " Milethea Spaine," which wss afterwards contracted to "Mile Spaine " (meaning the Spanish Hero), and finally to "Milesius" (mileadh: Irish, a hero; Lat. miles, a soldier).] At length Milesius took leave of his father-in-law, and steered towards Spain; where he arrived to the great joy and comfort of his people, who were much harassed by the rebellion of the natives and by the intrusion of other foreign nations that forced in after his father's death, and during his own absence from Spain. With these and those he often met ; and. in fifty-four battles, victoriously fought, he routed, destroyed, and totally extirpated them out of the country, which he settled in peace and quietness. In his reign a great dearth and famine occurred in Spain, of twenty-six years' continuance, occasioned as well by reason of the former troubles which hindered the people from cultivating and manuring the ground, as for want of rain to moisten the earth; but Milesius superstitiously believed the famine to have fallen upon him and his people as a judgment and punish- Pedigree of the Clan of Rede, or Read. 225 ment from their gods, for their negligence in seeking out the country destined for their final abode, so long before foretold by Cachear their Druid or magician, as already mentioned — the time limited by the prophecy for the accomplishment thereof being now nearly, if not fully, expired. To expiate his fault and to comply with the will of his gods, Milesius, with the general approbation of his people, sent his uncle Ithe, with his son Lughaidh [Luy], and one hundred and fifty stout men to bring them an account of those western islands ; who, accordingly, arriving at the island since then called Ireland, and landing in that part of it now called Munster, left his son with fifty of his men to guard the ship, and with the rest travelled about the island. Informed, among other things, that the three sons of Cearmad, called Mac-Cuill, MacCeacht, and MacGreine, did then and for thirty years before rule and govern the island, each for one year, in his turn ; and that the country was called after the names of their three queens — Eire, Fodhla, and Banbha, respectively : one year called " Eire," the next " Fodhla," and the next "Banbha," as their husbands reigned in their regular turns; by which names the island is ever since indifferently called, but most commonly " Eire," because that MacCuill, the husband of Eire, ruled and governed the country in his turn the year that the Clan-na-Mile (or the sons of Milesius) arrived in and conquered Ireland. And being further informed that the three brothers were then at their palace at Aileach Neid, in the north part of the country, engaged in the settlement of some disputes concerning their family jewels, Ithe directed his course thither; sending orders to his son to sail about with his ship and rest of his men, and meet him there. When Ithe arrived where the (Danan) brothers were, he was honourably received and entertained by them ; and, finding him to be a man of great wisdom and knowledge, they referred their disputes to him for decision. That decision having met their entire satisfaction, Ithe exhorted them to mutual love, peace, and forebearance ; adding much in praise of their delight- ful, pleasant, and fruitful country; and then took his leave, to return to his ship, and go back to • Spain. No sooner was he gone than the brothers began to reflect on the high commendations which Ithe gave of the Island ; and, suspecting his design of bringing others to invade it, resolved to prevent them, and therefore pursued him with a strong party, overtook him, fought and routed his men and wounded himself to death (before his son or the rest of his men left on ship-board could come to his rescue) at a place called, from that fight and his name, Magh Ithe or "The Plain of Ithe" (an extensive plain in the barony of Raphoe, county Donegal) ; whence his son, having found him in that condition, brought his dead and mangled body back into Spain, and there exposed it to public view, thereby to excite his friends and relations to avenge his murder. And here I think it not amiss to notify what the Irish chroniclers observed upon this matter, viz. — that all the invaders and planters of Ireland, namely, Parthalon, Neimhedh, the Firbolgs, Tuatha-de-Danans, and Clan-na-Mile. were originally Scythians, of the line of Japhet, who had the language called Bearla-Tobbai or Gaoidhilg [Gaelic] common amongst them all; and conse- quently not to be wondered at, that Ithe and the Tuatha-de-Danans under- 226 Rossiana. stood one another without an Interpreter — both speaking the same language, though perhaps with some difference in the accent. The exposing of the dead body of Ithe had the desired effect; for, there- upon, Milesius made great preparations in order to invade Ireland — as well to avenge his uncle's death., as also in obedience to the will of his gods, signified by the prophecy of Cachear, aforesaid. But, before he could effect that object, he died, leaving the care and charge of that expedition upon his eight legitimate sons by his two wives before mentioned. Milesius was a very valiant champion, a great warrior, and fortunate and prosperous in all his undertakings : witness his name of " Milesius," given him from the many battles (some say <7 thousand, which the word "Mile" signifies in Irish as well as in Latin) which he victoriously fought and won, as well in Spain, as in all the other countries and kingdoms he traversed in his younger days. The eight brothers were neither forgetful nor negligent in the execution of their father's command ; but, soon after his death, with a numerous fleet well manned and equipped, set forth from Breoghan's Tower or Brigantui (now Corunna) in Galicia, in Spain, and sailed prosperously to the coasts of Ireland or Inis-Fail, where they met many difficulties and various chances before they could land : occasioned by the diabolical arts, sorceries, and enchantments used by the Tuatha-de-Danans, to obstruct their landing; for, by their magic art, they enchanted the island so as to appear to the Milesians or Clan-na-Mile in the form of a Hog, and no way to come at it (whence the island, among the many other names it had before, was called Muc-Inis or " The Hog Island ") ; and withal raised so great a storm, that the Milesian rleet was thereby totally dispersed and many of them cast away, wherein five of the eight brothers, sons of Milesius, lost their lives. That part of the fleet commanded by Heber. Heremon, and Amergin (the three surviving brothers), and Heber Dunn, son of Ir (one of the brothers lost in the storm), overcame all opposition, landed -ate. fought and routed the three Tuatha-de- Danan Kings at Slieve-Mis, and thence pursued and overtook them at Tailten, where another bloody battle was fought; wherein the three (Tuatha- de-Danan) Kings and their Queens were slain, and their army utterly routed and destroyed: so that they could never after give any opposition to the Clan-na-Mile in their new conquest; who. having thus sufficiently avenged the death of their great uncle Ithe, gained the possession of the country foretold them by Cachear, some ages past, as already mentioned. Heber and Heremon, the chief leading men remaining of the eight brothers, sons of Milesius aforesaid, divided the kingdom between them (allotting a proportion of land to their brother Amergin, who was their Arch-priest, Druid, or magician ; and to their nephew Heber Donn, and to the rest of their chief commanders), and became jointly the first of one hundred and eighty-three Kings or sole Monarchs of the Gaelic, Milesian, or Scottish Race, that ruled and governed Ireland, successively, for two thousand eight hundred and eighty-five years from the first year of their reign. Anno Mundi three thousand five hundred, to their submission to the Crown of England in the person of King Henry the Second; who, being also of the Milesian Race by Maude, his mother, was lineally Pedigree of the Clan of Rede, or Read. 227 descended from Fergus Mor MacEarca, first King of Scotland, who was descended from the said Heremon — so that the succession may be truly said to continue in the Milesian Blood from Before Christ one thousand six hundred and ninety-nine years down to the present time. Heber and Heremon reigned jointly one year only, when, upon a difference between their ambitious wives, they quarrelled and fought a battle at Ardcath or Geshill (Geashill, near Tullamofe in the King's County), where Heber was slain by Heremon ; and, soon after, Amergin, who claimed an equal share in the government, was, in another battle fought between them, likewise slain by Heremon. Thus, Heremon became sole Monarch, and made a new division of the land amongst his comrades and friends, viz. : the south part, now called Munster, he gave to his brother Heber's four sons, Er, Orba, Feron, and Fergna ; the north part, now Ulster, he gave to Ir's only son Heber Donn; the east part or Coigeadh Gallon, now called Leinster, he gave to Criomthann-sciath-bheil, one of his commanders ; and the west part, now called Connaught, Heremon gave to Un-Mac-Oigge, another of his com- manders ; allotting a part of Munster to Lughaidh (the son of Ithe, the first Milesian discoverer of Ireland), amongst his brother Heber's sons. From these three brothers, Heber, Ir, and Heremon (Amergin dying without issue), are descended all the Milesian Irish of Ireland and Scotland, viz. : from Heber, the eldest brother, the provincial Kings of Munster (of whom thirty-eight were sole Monarchs of Ireland), and most of the nobility and gentry of Munster, and many noble families in Scotland, are descended. From Ir, the second brother, all the provincial Kings of Ulster (of whom twenty-six were sole Monarchs of Ireland), and all the ancient nobility and gentry of Ulster, and many noble families in Leinster, Munster, and Con- naught, derive their pedigrees; and, in Scotland, the Clan-na-Rory — the descendants of an eminent man, named Ruadhri or Roderick, who was Monarch of Ireland for seventy years (viz., from Before Christ 288 to 218). From Heremon, the youngest of the three brothers, were descended one hundred and fourteen sole Monarchs of Ireland: the provincial Kings and Hermonian nobility and gentry of Leinster, Connaught, Meath, Orgiall, Tirowen, Tirconnell, and Clan-na-boy; the Kings of Dalriada; all the Kings of Scotland from Fergus Mor MacEarca down to the Stuarts; and the Kings and Queens of England from Henry the Second down to the present time. The issue of Ithe is not accounted among the Milesian Irish or Clan-na- Mile, as not being descended from Milesins, but from his uncle Ithe; of whose posterity there were also some Monarchs of Ireland (see Roll of the Irish Monarchs, in Part III, c. ii), and many provincial or half provincial Kings of Munster: that country upon its first division being allocated to the sons of Heber and to Lughaidh, son of Ithe, whose posterity continued there accordingly. This invasion, conquest, or plantation of Ireland by the Milesian or Scottish Nation took place in the Year of the World three thousand five hundred, or the next year after Solomon began the foundation of the Temple of Jeru- salem, and one thousand six hundred and ninety-nine years before the Nativity of our Saviour Jesus Christ; which, according to the Irish computa- tion of Time, occurred Anno Mundi five thousand one hundred and ninety- 228 Rossi a >t a. nine: therein agreeing with the Septuagint, Roman Martyrologies, Eusebius, Orosius, and other ancient authors; which computation the ancient Irish chroniclers exactly observed in their Books of the Reigns of the Monarchs of Ireland, and other Antiquities of that Kingdom; out of which the Roll of the Monarchs of Ireland, from the beginning of the Milesian Monarchy to their submission to King Henry the Second of England, a Prince of their own Blood, is exactly collected. [As the Milesian invasion of Ireland took place the next year after the laying of the foundation of the Temple of Jerusalem by Solomon, King of Israel, we may infer that Solomon was contemporary with Milesius of Spain; and that the Pharaoh King of Egypt, who (i Kings iii. I,) gave his daughter in marriage to Solomon, was the Pharaoh who conferred on Milesius of Spain the hand of another daughter Scota.] Milesius of Spain bore three Lions in his shield and standard, for the following reasons; namely, that, in his travels in his younger days into foreign countries, passing through Africa, he, by his cunning and valour, killed in one morning three Lions; and that, in memory of so noble and valiant an exploit, he always after bore three Lions on his shield, which his two surviving sons Heber and Heremon, and his grandson Heber Donn, son of Ir, after their conquest of Ireland, divided amongst them, as well as they did the country : each of them bearing a Lion in his shield and banner, but of different colours; which the Chiefs of their posterity continue to this day : some with additions and differences ; others plain and entire as they had it from their ancestors. Descent from Adam to Milesius of Spain. i. Adam; 17. Asruth, his son; 2. Seth, his son ; 18. Sruth, his son ; 3. Enos, his son; 19. Heber Scutt (Scott), his son; 4. Cainan, his son; 20. Beouman, his son; 5. Mahalaleel. his son; 21. Oghaman, his son; 6. Jared, his son; 22. Tait, his son; 7. Enoch, his son ; 23. Agnan, his son ; 8. Methuselah, his son ; 24. Lamhfionn, his son ; 9. Lantech, his son; 25. Heber Glunfionn, his son; 10. Noah, his son. 26. Agnan Fionn, his son ; 11. Japhet, his son. 27. Febric Glas, his son; 12. Magog, his son ; 28. Xenuall, his son ; 13. Baoth, his son. (Baoth: Irish, 29. Nuadhad, his son; " simple ; " Hebrew, " to ter- 30. Alladh, his son ; rify.") 31. Arcadh. his son ; 14. Phceniusa (or Fenius) Farsaidh, 3^- Deagh. his son; the inventor of Letters, his son; 33- Brath, his son; 15. Niul, his son; 34- Breoghan (or Brigus), his son; 16. Gaodhal (the Clann-na-Gaodhail, 35- Bile, his son; or the Gaels), his son; 36. Milesius of Spain, his son; Pedigree of the Clan of Rede, or Read. 229 Descent from Milesius of Spain to .Eneas Turmeach-Teamrach. 2,~. Heremon, second Monarch of Ire- land, his son ; 38. Irial Faidh, the 10th Monarch, his son ; 39 Eithriall, the nth Monarch, his son ; 40. Falach (or Fallain), his son; 41. Tighearnmas, the 13th Monarch, his son; 42. Eanbrotha, his son ; 43. Smiorgoill, his son ; 44. Fiachadh Lamhraein, the 18th Monarch, his son ; 45- Aongus (or /Eneas) Ollmuchach, the 20th Monarch, his son ; 46. Maon, his son; 47. Rotheachta, the 22d Monarch, his son; 48. Dein, his son ; 49. Siorna Saoghalach, the 34th Mon- arch, his son; 50. Olioll Olchaoin, his son ; 51. Giallchadh, the 37th Monarch, his son; 52. Nuadhas Fionnfail, the 39th Mon- arch, his son; 53. Aodh Glas, his son ; 54. Simeon Breac, the 44th Monarch, his son ; 55. Muireadhach (Muredach) Bol- gach, the 46th Monarch, his son ; 56. Fiachadh Tolgrach, the 55th Mon- arch, his son ; 57. Duach Ladhrach, the 59th Mon- arch, his son ; 58. Eochaidh Buidhe, his son ; 59. Ugaine Mor, the 66th Monarch, his son ; 60. Cobthach Caol-bhreagh, the 69th Monarch, his son; 61. Melg Molbhthach, the 71st Mon- arch, his son ; 62. Iarn Gleo-Fathach, the 74th Mon- arch, his son; 63. Conla Caomh, the 76th Monarch, his son ; 64. Olioll Casfiacalach, the 77th Mon- arch, his son; 65. Eochaidh Altleathan, the 79th Monarch, his son; 66. Aongus (or ^Eneas) Turmeach- Teamrach, the 81st Monarch (from whose younger son, Fiacha Fearmara, the kings of Dalriada, in' Scotland, down to Loarn, the maternal grand- father of Fergus Mor Mac- Earca, were descended) ; Descent from /Eneas Turmeach-Teamrach to Fergus Mor MacEarca 67. Enda Agneach, the 84th Monarch, son of Turmeach-Teamrach; 68. Asaman Eamhnadh, his son ; 77- 69. Roighean Ruadh, his son; 70. Fionnlaoch, his son; 71. Fionn, his son; 78. 72. Eochaidh Feidhlioch, the 93d Monarch, his son ; 79. 73. Breas-Nar-Lothar, his son : 74. Lugaidh Sriabh-n Dearg, the 98th Monarch, his son ; 80. 75. Crimthann Niadh-Nar (called Crimthann the Heroic), the iooth Monarch, who reigned 81. when Christ was born, his son ; 76. Feareadach [Feredach] Fionn Feachtnach (or Feredach, the True and Sincere), the I02d Monarch, his son ; Fiacha Fionn Ola (or Fiacha of the White Oxen), the 104th Monarch, his son ; Tuathal Teachdmar, the 106th Monarch, his son ; Felim Rachtmar (or Felim, the Lawgiver), the 108th Monarch. his son ; Conn Ceadcatha (or Conn of the Hundred Battles), the noth Monarch, his son; Art-Ean-Fhear (or Art-Enear), the 112th Monarch, the ances- tor of O'h-Airt, anglicised O'Hart, his son ; 230 Rossi an a. 82. Cormac Ulfhada (commonly called " Cormac Mac Art "), the 115th Monarch, his son ; 83. Cairbre Liffechar, the 117th Mon- arch, his son ; 84. Fiacha Srabhteine, the 120th Mon- arch, his son ; 85. Muredach Tireach [teeragh], the I22d Monarch, his son; 86. Eochaidh Muigh Meadhoin (or Eochy Moyoone), the 124th Monarch, his son ; 87. Niall Mor (known as Niall of the Nine Hostages), the 126th Monarch, his son; 88. Eoghan (Owen), his son; 89. Muredach, his son ; 90. Fergus Mor Mac Earca, 1 the brother of Murchertach (or Murtogh) Mor MacEarca, the 131st Monarch of Ireland, his son. Descent of the Kings of Dalriada in Scotland from .Eneas Tuirmeach- Teamrach. iEneas Tuirmeach-Teamrach (No. 66 in the preceding pedigree), the 8 1st Monarch of Ireland, who died at Tara, before Christ, 324, had a son named Fiacha Firmara, who was ancestor of the Kings of Dalriada and Argyle, in Scotland. Following is the descent from .Eneas Tuirmeach- Teamrach to Fergus Mor MacEarca, founder of the Scottish Monarchy: 67. Fiacha Firmara, as above. 68. Olioll Earon, his son ; 69. Fearach, his son ; 70. Forga, his son ; 71. Main Mor, his son ; 72. Arnold, his son ; 72,. Rathrean. his son ; 74. Trean, son of Rathrean ; 75. Rosan, his son ; 76. Suin, his son ; 77- Deadha, his son ; had a younger brother; 78. Iar, his son; 79. Olioll Anglonnach, his son ; 80. Eoghan, his son ; 81. Edersceol, son of Eoghan, who was the 95th Monarch of Ire- land: 82. Conaire Mor (or Conarius Mag- nus), his son, who was the 97th Monarch of Ireland; 83. Carbry Fion Mor, his son ; 84. Daire (or Darius) Dorn Mor, his son ; 85. Carbry (2) Cromcheann, his son ; 86. Lughach (or Luy) Altain, his son; 1" In a. D. 498, Fergus Mor Mac Earca, in the twentieth year of the reign of his father, Muredach, son of (Eugenius, or) Owen, sen of Niall of the Nine Hostages, with five more of his brothers, viz., another Fergus, two more named Loarn, and two named Aongus (or yEneas), with a complete army, went into Scotland to assist his grandfather Loarn, who was king of Dalriada, and who was much oppressed by his enemies the Picts, who were in several battles and engagements vanquished and overcome by Fergus and his party. Whereupon, on the king's death, which happened about the same time, the said Fergus was unanimously elected and chosen king, as being of the Blood Royal, by his mother; and the said Fergus was the first absolute king of Scotland, of the Milesian Race; so the succession continued in his blood and lineage ever since to this day." — Four Masters. According to the Scottish chroniclers, it was a. d. 424. that Fergus Mor Mac Earca went from Ireland to Scotland. Before him, the Milesian kings in that country were kings only of that part of it called " Dalriada," of which Loarn. the grandfather of Fergus Mor Mac Earca {Mac Earca: Irish, son of Earca, daughter of Loarn) was the last king. Pedigree of the Clan of Rede, or Read. 231 87. Mogha Lainne, his son ; 88. Conaire (2), his son, who was the 1 nth Monarch of Ireland, and known as " Conaire Mac Mogha Lainne." This Conaire (or Conarius) the Second, was married to Sarad, daughter of Conn of the Hundred Battles, the noth Monarch of Ireland, who began to reign A. D. 122; and Sarad was mother of Car- bry Riada, the first king of Dalriada (Dal-Riada; Irish, Riada's share or portion) in Scotland; 89. Carbry Riada,* son of Conaire the Second, whose brother, Cairbre Muse, was ancestor of O'Falvey and O'Shee, and whose son, Eochaidh, settled in Kerry. 90. Kionga, King of Dalriada; 91. Felim Lamh-foidh, his son, King of Dalriada; 92. Eochy Fortamail, his son, King of Dalriada; 93. Fergus Uallach, his son, King of Dalriada; /Eneas Feart (feartas: Irish, manly conduct; Lat. virtus) his son, King of Dalriada; Eochy Mun-reamhar, his son, King of Dalriada; 96. Earc, his son, King of Dalriada ; 97. Loarn, his son, and the last King of Dalriada. 94 95 This was the Loarn to assist whom in his war against the Picts, his grandson, Fergus Mor MacEarca, went to Scotland, A. D. 498, or, according to the Scottish chroniclers, A. D. 424; and this Fergus Mor MacEarca was the founder of the Scottish Monarchy. *Carbry Riada (Reoda) : "One of the most noted facts in ancient Irish and British history," writes Dr. Joyce, " is the migration of colonies from the north of Ireland to the neighboring coasts of Scotland, and the intimate intercourse that in consequence existed in early ages between the two countries. The first regular settlement mentioned by our historians was made in the latter part of the second century, by Cairbre Riada, son of Conary the Second, king of Ireland. This expedition, which is mentioned in most of our Annals, is confirmed by Bede, in the following words: — 'In course of time, Britain, besides the Britons and Picts, received a third nation, Scotia, who, issuing from Hibernia under the leadership of Reuda (Riada), secured for themselves, either by friendship or by the sword, settlements among the Picts which they still possess. From the name of their commander, they are to this day called Dalrcudini: tor, in their language, Dal signifies a part.' (Hist. Eccl., Lib. I. cap. 1.) " There were other colonies, also, the most remarkable of which was that led by Fergus, Angus, and Loarn, the three sons of Ere, which laid the foundation of the Scottish monarchy. The country colonized by these emigrants was known by the name of Airer Gaedhil [Arrer-gale], i. e. the territory of the Gael or Irish; and the name is still applied to the territory in the shortened form of Argyle, a living record of these early colonizations. The tribes over whom Cairbre ruled were, as Bede and our own Annals record, called from him Dalriada, (Riada's portion or tribe); of which there were two— one in (the north of) Ireland, and the other and more illustrious in Scotland."— Irish Names of Places. Read, or Reade, of Barton Court. BARTON COURT. BARTON MANOR, with the ancient palace of the Abbots of Abingdon — otherwise named the " King's House," because the sovereign could claim hospitality of its owner — was acquired by Thomas Reade, founder of the Barton Court line, in 1550, as set forth in the Inq. p. mortem held at Abingdon, April 13, 1557: King Edward VI was seized in fee of the Manor of Barton, formerly belonging to the Monastery at Abendon, and of various lands demised to John Audelett, and by letters patent July 10th, I Edward VI (1547), he granted the premises to Richard Lee, Knight. By license of the same King a fine was levied Michaelmas, 1547, between Edmund Herman, plaintiff, and the said Richard Lee, Knight, and Margaret, his wife, deforciants, who remised and quit-claimed the premises to Herman and his heirs. By another license of the same King a fine was levied in Easter term, 1548, between the said Thomas Rede and Anne, his wife, plaintiffs, and the said Edmund Herman and Agnes, his wife, deforciants, who remised and quit-claimed to the said Thomas and Anne. The said Richard Lee, Knight, by his writing, dated February 12th, 1550, for the sum of £40 13s. 4d. released the premises to Rede and wife. The great Manor of Barton, at this time, consisted of the following lands and estates, as stated in the above document : Alderne, Inny, Pomney, Stokey, Gosey, Bartoun, Brewarney, Brislay Hille, Barrowe Hille, Sudbrooke, Crowe Close, Conynger, Myre Close, Pounde Close, Straye Close, Bowre Close, Box Hille, Barton Pece (the 20 acres lying and being in Barton), with the usual Manorial privileges, including spiritual as well as temporal appurtenances. This manor, originally the property of the Abbey of Abingdon, the last Abbot (Thomas Rowland) gave, granted and surrendered to King Henry VIII, with the monastery and titles, February 9, 1538. This grant was farther endorsed by a statute passed April 28, 1541. The bulk of Thomas Reade's other real estate, as set forth in the same Inq. />. mortem, consisted of lands in Sonningwell, Long Wittnam, Stanmere, Byddon (Beedon), Ballyng, Foller, UJffingtou, Kingston Lysley, Abingdon and Wanting (Wantage). Thomas Reade's name first occurs in a conveyance (T536) by John Audelett. then of Abingdon, but previously of Woburn, Bucks, to himself and others, of the Manors of Ipsden Huntercombe and Ipsden Bassett,* in trust for his wife Catherine. He was seized of other estates by a similar joint-purchase with his cousin, Catherine Audelett, in survivorship, viz. : the Manor of Idmyston, Wilts., with lands in Stratton St. Margaret; the Manor of Denford, with lands in Raunds, Ringstead and Wold, Northants, and the Manor of Dunstew, Oxon, the latter having been purchased by John Audelett, in 1528, of the suppressed Abbey of Merton. *The manors of Ipsden Huntercombe and Ipsden Bassett alone, of all the manors held by this line, survive to the family after a lapse of nearly four centuries. 236 Rossiana. Thomas Reade was buried April 27, 1556, in the Reade aisle of St. Helen's Church. Abingdon, Berks. His wife, Anne Hoo, survived him nineteen years, and. by direction of her will, was also buried in the Read aisle at St. Helen's. Thomas Reade ( d. 1604), son of Thomas, first proprietor of Barton Manor, married Mary Stonhouse, daughter of George Stonhouse, Esq., Lord of the Manors of Little or West Peckham, Kent, and Radley, Berks. The Manor of Barton subtends that of Radley. and it is a coincidence that the recent owner of Barton Manor, Sir W. Bowyer, Bart., like the Reade family, whom the Bowyers succeeded there, is a descendant of George Stonhouse. MANOR OF BEEDON. Beedon, mentioned above, was formerly one of the seats of the De Lisle family. Lyson's Britannica says: "Alice De Lisle had the Royal license to make a park at Beedon in 1336." The estate afterward passed to Thomas, fourth Lord Berkeley (d. 1417). who married Margaret (d. 1395), daughter of General De Lisle; then to Lady Elizabeth Berkeley, their daughter, who married Richard Beauchamp, Earl of Warwick: then to Lady Alianora Beauchamp, their daughter, who married the Duke of Somerset; then to Lady Johanna Beaufort, their daughter, who married, first, Lord Howethe, and. secondly, Richard Frye. At the decease of Lady Johanna Beaufort, in 1518, the manor was leased by the Crown to Robert Sewey : and May 13th, 7th Henry 8th, in considera- tion of surrender of annuity of iioo, a grant in survivorship was made to Sir William Fitzwilliam, Mabel, his wife, and their eldest son. Lastly, Henry VIII, for £_>id, granted to William Thomas the Manor of Beddon, late parcel of the possessions of tin- Countesse of Somerset." In 1562 the Manors of Beedon and Stanmore with the advowson were the property of Anne, widow of Thomas Reade of Barton Court, ami this is the earliest mention of Beedon as an estate of the Reade family. It was aliened by Sir John Chandos Reade, seventh Baronet, third creation, in 1S57, to Lord Overstone. Both Barton and Beedon were evidently in ruin- in [663, when the King granted to Sir Compton Reade, High Sheriff of Berks, the privilege of residing out of the county, "he having no lit residence in it." Beedon, lying near Newbury, the scene of two battles during the Civil War, and being the home of a "malignant cavalier." was utterly demolished. Sir Compton, late in life, erected the present manor house on the site of Alice De Lisle's ancient mansion. RUINS OF BARTON COURT. In describing the ruins of Barton Court as they appeared at the time of his visit to the ancient seat of his ancestors in 1877, General Meredith Read said : After the battle of Cropedy Bridge, which was fought on the 29th June, 1644, and in which Charles I was victorious, a force of Cromwellians advanced from Abingdon and attacked Barton Court, which was vigorously defended by Compton Read and Edward, his brother, and their grand uncle, Ruins of Barton Court. 237 Richard Read (then sixty-five years old), and their various retainers. The storming party only gained access by means of the torch, and the once stately pile was reduced to a heap of smouldering ruins. Richard Read died before the Restoration, but his nephew, Compton, was one of the first Baronets created after the accession of Charles II, and he owed his title to his services in the royal cause, and especially to the loss which had over- taken the family in striving to stay the advance of the forces of the Commonwealth. A gaunt mass of masonry in disjointed outlines still keeps watch and ward on the spot, in spite of the fierce attempts of a herculean vine, which has wrapt it in its undermining embraces. The upper portions have fallen, but there still remain traces of three stories, with accompanying fireplaces and chimneys. The third floor has a wide chimney place, with sculptured marble. A small tower is there also, with embrasures. The origin of the building was of the greatest antiquity. Ruins of Barton Court. It was built of stone, and, in historical times, was lined with brick and cement. It belonged originally to the Abbey of Abingdon, which was founded in the eighth century. In his " Record of the Redes," the Rev. Compton Reade, thus describes the destruction of Barton Court: The date of the defence of Barton Court is not as yet established. Mr. John Edmund Reade fixed it at after the siege of Worcester. In the Gentle- man's Magazine for August, 1897, is an account of the attempt on Abingdon made by Prince Rupert, in March, 1646. The elaborate plan of attack has been preserved in the Rupert Papers, Civil War Tracts. In this plan no mention is made of Barton House, or palace ; but in a letter included in the Civil War Tracts, from "Colonel Payne to General Browne, it is stated that " the enemy came between Thrupp and Norcot to Barton House, where they kept covert till daylight, and lay till after the Ravalue (reveille^ was beaten," etc. In a letter in the Tanner MSS., the writer says : " The enemy about six o'clock this morning, as soon as the Ravaley had beat, appeared 2 3 8 Rossi a 11 a. in a full body, both horse and foot, from Barton House, where it is con- ceived they had long before lodged," thus showing that Barton was made the pivot of a venture which ended in failure. Shortly after, the newspapers on the Parliament side stated that General Browne, after demanding sup- plies for the reduction of the enemy's garrisons, adjacent to Abingdon, " hath a design to smoke them out." This design was carried into execution. After playing on the massive walls of the old Abbot's Palace, and in such wise that cannon balls were extracted from the masonry as late as forty years ago, fire was employed to effect an entrance, and evidences thereof "are still conspicuous in the ruins.* Afterward there must have been a sharp contest, for the timbers of the present Barton Farm house, which was constructed from the debris of the old structure, show marks of bullets. ki i ns of Barton Ci 11 ki. It was for this service especially that Sir Compton Reade headed the list of gentlemen of Berks when the order of the Royal Oak was contemplated, and was created Baronet. It should be added that Sir Compton's troop of horse and gallant defense of his grandfather's mansion were favorite topics with the late John Reade, of Ipsden, who could just remember Ids grand- father, John, who again was a schoolboy when Edward, Sir Compton's brother, and his grandfather died. In 1646, Sir Compton, although he had served three years during the Civil War. was a few months under age, and therefore the omission of the name of one so junior is hardly a matter of surprise. That his services were appraised at their true value the rewards assigned him at the Restoration amply demonstrated. *The late General Meredith Read possessed one of these cannon balls, Sir John Chandos Reade another, and the late Mr. Trendell, Mayor of Abingdon, a third. General Meredith Read's Visit to Barton Court. 239 GENERAL MEREDITH READ'S VISIT TO BARTON COURT, 1877. In view of the interest taken by all the Read family in the ancient Manor of Barton Court, the cradle, if not the birthplace, of the race, I have inserted General Meredith Read's description, never published before. Barton Court was visited by myself and Mrs. Read a few years ago, and its very courteous proprietor received us with great politeness. It is now a gentleman's seat; the farm house has been enlarged and beautified, and the estate has returned to its historic name of Barton Court. H. P. R. General Meredith Read's Visit to Barton Court, Berks, September, 1877. Barton Court, one of the ancient seats of my ancestors, is now represented by Barton Abbey Farm, and an ancient dwelling which originally formed a part of the outlying buildings and offices of the old chateau. During my visit there, on the 3d of September, 1S77, I made the following notes : In the sitting-room there is an ancient French print — now, 1888, in my possession — engraved by P. Drevet, from the picture by Hyacinthe Rigaud. It bears the title: Et Verbum Caro factum est, et habitavit in nobis; (i. e.) Le Verbe s'est fait Chair, et il a habite parmi nous. A Paris chez P. Drevet rue St. Jacques, a l'Annonciation avec privil. du Roy. H. Rigaud, pinx. Drevet, excu. Hyacinthe Rigaud, who, with Nicolas de Largilliere, painted the portraits of many of the distinguished men and women of their day, was born in 1659, and died in 1743. Although Rigaud's attention was almost exclusively devoted to portraiture in his early life, he carried away, in 1682, the first prize offered by the Academy with his picture " Cain Building the City of Enoch," and in 1684 he was received by the Academy, as historical painter, upon his merely showing a crucifixion which was not yet finished ; and his Martyrdom of St. Andrew, now in the Louvre, confirmed his reputation. His pictures were wonderfully engraved by those great masters of the Burin, the two Pierres Drevet — father and son. The former was born in 1664, and died at Paris in 1739. The father was the author of this engraving. Mr. Ambroise Firmin-Didot, Member of the Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres, published a Catalogue Raisonne of plates executed by the members of the Drevet family, and this valuable work contains an exact description of the Barton Court print. Several finely illuminated volumes in my library, with dedicatory auto- graphs, embalm the friendship which existed between myself and M. Firmin- Didot — who personally illustrated the best traditions of a house, which has practically adorned French literature in its several generations, for nearly a century and a half. The above rare engraving is preserved in an ancient black frame, with a massive inside of sculptured gilt mat. It was executed by Pierre Drevet in 1691, and hung in the offices of Barton Court in the time of Sir Thomas Read, Bart., who succeeded his father, Sir Edward, in 169 1 ; was one of the 240 Rossiana. gentlemen of the bedchamber to George I, one of the clerks of the house- hold to George II, and M. P. for Cricklade, county Wilts. He married Jane, daughter of Sir Ralph Du'tton, Bart, of Sherburne, county Gloucester, and died in 1756 without issue. Another print hanging on the walls of the sitting-room is entitled: 'Coming of Age in the Olden Time," and the castle represented therein resembles the outlines of Barton Court in the days when my ancestors dwelt there, before the civil wars had destroyed its fine proportions. In the parlor is a coloured print : " Snow-balling on Christmas Eve." In the room over the parlor there are two curious openings through which cross-bowmen once shot. All the upper rooms are more or less deserted, and are mottled with large shot holes, through which cooing doves go in and out. There is a haunted room which has been uninhabited from time imme- morial. Through its dilapidated windows on certain nights in the year steel- clad warriors pass and repass in ghostly procession. The end of the main hall is approached by four or five steps, and under this raised portion of the hall strange noises have been heard from time to time. I asked the fanner why he did not investigate the cause of these disturbances. He replied that he could not do so without dismantling the place, to which his landlord would naturally object. A tradition has always existed in our family that a secret passage ran from this point under the river Thames to the little Abbey church on the opposite side of the river. It had been raining; and, as I stepped outside of the door, I noticed a slight cavity and falling in of the earth near the wall of the house, and. procuring a long pole I thrust it down a distance of seven or eight feet. My curiosity was naturally greatly excited, and I asked the farmer if it would not be possible to have a hole dug there to ascertain whether this was a part of the secret passage. He made the same reply which he had previously made in regard to the hall. Barton Abbey farm now, 1877, belongs to Sir George Bowyer, Bart. It is occupied by Mrs. Powell, the widow of Mr. Walter J. Powell, the great maltster and corn dealer at Abingdon. Samuel Cornish is the farmer. In connection with it there is a Cundic farm, with barns and shepherd's house and 500 sheep. Barton Court is on the west bank of the Thames, a short distance north of Abingdon. The locks are opposite to it. The river roars and overflows its banks in winter. Nuneham Park, the seat of the Harcourt family, is in sight to the east and about a mile away. The Abbey of Abingdon possessed certain proprietary rights in the Manor of Beedon, which afterwards passed to the Read family, and it is probable that this association with the Abbey, and the subsequent intimacy which existed between William Read and John Awdlett, the treasurer of the Abbey of Abingdon, led to the acquisition of Barton Court and its dependencies. The early wills of the family show that the stables of Barton Court in ancient times were filled with renowned stock, and to-day there are to be seen there some fine cattle, among them a pedigree bull, whose brother, General Meredith Read's Visit to Barton Court. 241 the " Oxford Butterfly," brought two thousand guineas. Nearby is the pond, with ducks, and the great brew-house, with its huge chimney place. The ancient pigeon-house is filled with cooing tenants, who flutter in curving lines before this inscription: T. R. and M. R. 1600. The first two letters are the initials of Thomas Read, high sheriff of Berks in 1598, who was knighted by his kinswoman Queen Elizabeth in the following year, and died at Barton in 1604. He was the father of Sir Thomas Read, who was likewise sheriff of Berks, and acquired Brockett Hall through his wife; of John Read, who died young, and of Richard Read, born at Barton in 1579, and who defended it, as above mentioned, in 1644, and marrying a daughter of Sir Alexander Cave, by his wife, Anne, daughter of Sir John Brockett, by the latter's wife, Ellen Lytton, of Kneb- worth, died at Dunstew in 1659, aged eighty, leaving at least two sons, Alexander and Charles. The letters M. R. represent the first above-mentioned Thomas Read's wife, Mary Read, daughter of George Stonhouse, Esquire, Lord of the Manor of Little Peckham, a high official in the court of Queen Elizabeth, and the ancestor of the baronets of that name. It has been proposed to endeavor to procure a piece of land nearby the ruins upon which the English and American branches may erect a monu- ment to the memory of their common ancestors. Charles Reade has warmly taken up the matter, and it is intimated that Lady North would be glad to contribute to this worthy object. I have had several interviews with my friend Sir George Bowyer, who has received my suggestions with generous interest, but I am informed by his agent at Abingdon, Mr. Babcock, that there are certain difficulties in the way of entirely meeting my wishes. I desire to purchase outright a small plot of ground. Sir George is unwilling to sell the freehold, but offers to give a site for the monument 1 and to agree that it shall not be disturbed by him or his successors. His unwillingness to part with the freehold of even a very minute portion of the Manor arises from the fact that it is being laid out into streets and villa lots, the intention being to lease and not to sell the latter. Under the circumstances, without intending to pun, I fear the whole project will fall to the ground. In speaking of the antiquity of Barton Court, it is interesting to note that I brought away from its ruins a stone finial, with primitive carvings of foliage, which may be referred to the twelfth century; also the base of a column, with Decorated moldings, which probably belongs to the end of the fourteenth century. It appears that a garrison was established at Abingdon by Charles I, and that it became the headquarters of his horse. The whole royal family also came thither as early as the 17th April, 1644, and often enjoyed the hos- pitalities of Barton Court. 'The monument was never erected. 242 Rossiana. In May of the same year a council of war was held at Abingdon, soon after which the garrison quitted the place on the approach of the Earl of Essex, who plundered the town and fortified it for the Parliament. It was at this time that the Reads of Barton Court made their valiant defense, and the destruction of their seat was completed by the contest which ensued between Prince Rupert and the Parliamentary forces. J. M. R. ANCIENT ABINGDON. Abingdon, county of Berks, near which is located Barton Court, the ancient home of the Reads, is a municipal borough on the right bank of the Thames, at its confluence with the Ock, 56 miles from London by road, 10324 by the river and 59 by the Great Western railway, with which it is connected by a short line which joins the main Oxford line at Radley station, in the northern division of the county, hundred of-Hormer, rural deanery of Abingdon, archdeaconry of Berks and diocese of Oxford. The name Abingdon is derived in legendary history from Aben, a noble hermit, who is said to have built on this site a dwelling house and a chapel in honor of the Holy Virgin. According to other writers the town was originally called Seovechesham or Seusham, and some identify it with Cloveshoe, a place famous in the annals of English church councils, but it no doubt owes both its name and historical importance to its abbey, formerly one of the wealthiest mitred abbeys in England. Seovechesham was at a very early period a royal residence, but was subsequently deserted by the Saxon kings, until Offa, king of the Mercians and West Saxons, while accidentally visiting the spot, was so charmed with the beauty of the Isle of Andersley, a district lying southwest of the town, and between the monastery and St. Helen's Church, that he prevailed on the monks to exchange it for the manor of Goosey, and built for himself en the island a royal residence, which was there maintained until Kenwulf, his successor, resold Andersey to Abbot Uthemus for the manor of Sutton and £120 in silver; at this palace his son Egfrid died in 793: the site called in Leland's tune " The Castle of the Rhe," is now indicated by a large tract of land encircled by the Thames and a tributary inlet. William the Con- queror, in 1084, kept his Easter at Abingdon, being splendidly entertained by his powerful adherent, Robert D'Oyley, to whose charge he entrusted his youngest son, afterwards Henry I. while receiving his education at this abbey. During the civil war Abingdon was garrisoned for the king, who, on 17th April, 1644, arrived here with the queen and attended by Prince Rupert and the Duke of York, and after holding a council of war, returned to Oxford; on the following day, May 25th, the Royalist general deserted the town, and the Earl of Essex, arriving with his troops, plundered it, and placed there a Parliamentary garrison, under the command of General Browne ; on the 31st of May, a new Parliamentary force under General Waller, which had been quartered at Wantage, entered the town and demolished the beautiful cross which then stood in the market place; various attempts were made by the king's party during the years 1644-6 to recover the town, but in the main with little success, although in 1646 Prince Rupert gained possession of the abbey buildings, and it eventually remained in the Ancient Abingdon. 243 hands of the Parliament. Abingdon increased much, both in population and wealth, by the building of Burford or Borford bridge, a structure of seven arches, near the town, and of another bridge at Culhamford, about half a mile east of it, the erection of which has been attributed by some to Henry V., who, however, only granted his license and protection ; of these works, begun in 1416 John Houchons and John Banbury were zealous promoters ; and among the chief of those who contributed to the building and preservation of the bridges and intermediate road were Sir Peter Besils, of Besilsleigh ; Geoffrey Barbour, a merchant, and William Hales and Maud his wife, who, in 1453, added three arches to Burford bridge. The town is connected by Culhamford bridge with the parish of Culham, in Oxfordshire; and a high and broad causeway, constructed in the 15th century by the munificence of Geoffrey Barbour, unites the two bridges. The town consists of a spacious Market place at the east end, from which several streets diverge to the north, south and west; the chief of these, High street, was formerly much contracted, but has been widened at its western extremity, where it gives off tributary streets to the right and left and then expands into a smaller square, from which the wide thoroughfare, called Ock street, extends to the western limit of the borough. Abingdon at an early period of its history possessed a Bendictine abbey of great wealth and high distinction, whose mitred abbot was summoned with the barons to parliament. Cissa, father of King Ina, whose rule extended over Wiltshire and a large part of Berkshire, is said to have founded it (a. d. 675), on a site described in the abbey chronicle as a " table land surmounting a rising ground of delightful aspect, in a retired spot, inclosed within two most pleasant streams." About a. d. 866-71, the Danes overran the country, and coming to Abingdon, destroyed the monastery, leaving only the bare walls ; but on their extermination by Alfred, it was rebuilt, and subsequently, between a. D. 946-55. reconstructed under King Edred. On the arrival in England of William the Conqueror (a. d. 1066) Abbot Aldred took the oath of allegiance to him, but was displaced, and the abbacy bestowed upon Ethel- helm, a Norman : at the general dissolution of the monasteries the abbey was surrendered to the king by the abbott, Thomas Rowland, B. D., some- times written and called " Rowland Penticost." The existing remains com- prise the Perpendicular gatehouse, a vaulted structure, adjacent to the church of St. Nicholas, with central and side arches, and rooms above occupied by the Corporation, and some other buildings situated eastward of it, on the backwater of the Thames, now occupied as a brewery, but readily accessible, and principally consisting of a long building, with walls of great thickness and massive buttresses, at one end of which a flight of wooden steps, with a time-worn balustrade, gives access to several apartments with lofty open- timbered roofs, and connected by a corridor running along the north side ; the room at the west end contains a fine Early English fireplace, with grace- ful shafts and foliated capitals ; and the doorway is flanked on either side by good traceried windows ; underneath is a spacious vaulted crypt, now used for storing ale. Henry I. (Beauclerc) was a student here, and Egelwyn, bishop of Durham (1056-71), died while imprisoned in the abbey in 1071. 244 Rossi a no. St. Helen's church, situated close to the river, southwest of the town, is a spacious edifice, chiefly in the Perpendicular style, consisting of five parallel aisles of unequal length and breadth, named as follows, beginning from the north — Jesus aisle, Our Lady's aisle, St. Helen's aisle, St. Cath- arine's aisle and the Holy Cross aisle; a tower and spire on the northeast, with a porch in the lower stage, vestry on the southeast, and a small chapel or chantry west of the tower : the church was completely restored in 1S73, when the high pews and cumbrous galleries were removed, the nave and chancel roof renewed in open timber work and considerably heightened. The north aisle has a timber ceiling, richly painted with figures of kings, prophets and saints, given by Nicholas Gold, one of the founders of the fraternity of the Holy Cross; the south aisles, one of which was built in 1539- for the use of a guild, are rather later, but of the same character, as is the south porch, which has a good doorway and canopied niche, recently filled with a figure of St. Catharine, the buttresses being surmounted with figures of St. Dunstan and St. TThelwold ; the tower is Early English, and has a plain parapet with crocheted angle turrets, from within which flying- buttresses support a tall octagonal spire ; it contains a peal of 10 bells, remarkable for their exceeding sweetness of tone and a clock; the restora- tion of the tower and spire was completed on May 1st, 1886. At the east end of the south aisle is a portrait, on panel, of Mr. William Lee, five times mayor of Abingdon, who died in 1037, aged 92; accompanying the portrait is a genealogical chart, and an inscription, stating that he had in his lifetime issue from his loins two hundred, lacking but three. In 1644-5, the parliamentary army, under General Waller, while quartered here, used the north aisle as a stable. The church of St. Nicholas, situated on the north side of the Market place, adjoining the abbey gateway, was built, according to Dugdale, by Nicholas de Coleham or Culham, prior, and afterwards abbot, of Abingdon, liet ween the years 1289 and 1307, although portions of the west front seem to indicate an earlier origin, perhaps during the period 1200-20; traces of the triple lancet window, which originally lighted the west front, are still visible, as well as ^i other similar windows in the north wall; and it may therefore be concluded that the building existed at least 60 years before the abbacy of de Coleham. The church is a small structure, consisting only of chancel and nave, a small chantry, organ chamber and vestry on the north and an embattled western tower, containing 6 bells, cast in October, 1741. The tower is built partly upon the west wall, and is otherwise supported from within the church by two stone piers or legs, standing clear of the walls attached to it; on the north side is a minstrels gallery and a singular square stair turret, with a gabled roof and a small triangular window; the west doorway, with its lateral arcading, is a good example of late Norman work. but the rest of the church as now existing is chiefly Perpendicular. During the year i88r the church underwent a thorough restoration at the hands of Mr. Edwin Dolby, architect, of Abingdon, in course of which the nave roof was entirely renewed in English oak, and a panelled and embattled parapet, with numerous carved shields, was imposed upon the north wall; the floor was also relaid with small blocks, tiles and disturbed gravestones; the old Ancient Abingdon. 245 pulpit refixed and the chancel and nave refitted in oak; the heraldic glass, with which the east and other windows were previously filled, including a shield of arms of Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York, was wholly removed and sold; some may still be seen in the windows of Barton Farm, and other portions are at the Abbey House, the residence of E. J. Trendell, Esq., who has refilled the east window with Bristol glass; and one lancet window has also been renewed in memory of Henry Yeates, of Abingdon. Abingdon, in addition to these two churches, contains the Church of St. Michael, an ease to St. Helen's; a Roman Catholic church, dedicated to St. Mary and St. Edmund of Canterbury ; Trinity Wesleyan church, a Bap- tist chapel, a Congregational church, and a Primitive Methodist chapel. The streets, which are well paved, converge to a spacious area, in which the market is held. In the center of this area stands the market-house, supported on lofty pillars, with a large hall above, appropriated to the sum- mer Assizes for the county, and the transaction of other public business. In the beginning of the last century Abingdon manufactured much sail- cloth and sacking; but its chief trade now is in corn and malt, carpets and coarse linen. It sends one member to Parliament, and is governed by a mayor, four aldermen and twelve councilors. Its population in 1871 was 6,571- SHIPTON COURT. THE handsome country seat, known as Shipton Court, was, for over two hundred years, owned by the Reades of the Shipton line of Reade baronets, and passed from the family about forty years ago. Shipton Court was purchased, November 17, 1663, by Sir Compton Reade, first Baronet, from Rowland Lacy (afterward Sir Rowland Lacy), by whose grandfather it had been built The demesne adjoined Sir Compton's lands in Fullbrook and Taynton, styled in the settlement of Sir Thomas Reade. Shipton Court. fourth Baronet, " the ancient inheritance." It is said that the estate was purchased with money given Sir Compton for the purpose by King Charles II. Shipton Court was devised by Sir John Chandos Reade, seventh Baronet, who died without descendants, in 1868, to Joseph Wakefield, a family servant, upon the latter's assuming the surname of Reade, thus removing the estate from the family where it should have remained. It is related that Sir John Chandos Read, being very fond of boxing, usually about once a week, after a late dinner, called in one of his young footmen who was a good boxer Shipton Court. 247 and indulged in a round or two. One night, as he was thus engaged in the upper hall, he struck the footman a hard blow, but without intent to injure him, and the unfortunate servant rolled down the stairs. When picked up by Wakefield he was dead, and as Wakefield was the only witness who could defend Sir John from the charge of murder, it is said that he gained unusual influence over him. He became his master's butler, and finally came into the splendid estate. The title, however, could not be devised, and descended to Sir John's great-nephew, Sir Chandos Stanhope Hoskyns Reade, eighth Baronet. After the latter's death in 1890, without male issue. Sir George Compton Reade became ninth Baronet. The latter married Melissa, daugh- ter of Isaac Ray, Esq., of Michigan, whose son, George Reade, is the present heir apparent. Shipton Court passed to Joseph Wakefield's son, from whom it passed to the present owner, Mr. Pepper, who has thoroughly repaired and modern- ized the interior of the ancient structure. A GHOST AT SHIPTON COURT. Sir Compton Reade, as stated herein, purchased the estate of Shipton Court from Sir Rowland Lacy in 1663. Lady Lacy, it is said, was a great friend of King Charles II, and. at the restoration of that monarch, was one of those influential women at court who pushed the claims of Compton Reade. Tradition has it that the King, at the time Compton Reade was raised to the baronetcy, gave him a large fortune to make up to him the destruction of Barton Court, so gallantly defended in the King's interest by Compton and Richard Reade* and other relatives, the condition being that he (Compton) should purchase Shipton Court from Lady Lacy's hus- band, Sir Rowland, at that time in sore need of money. Many years went by, so the story goes, but Lady Lacy could never recon- cile herself to the loss of beautiful Shipton Court. A month after her death her ghost was said to have been seen walking along her favorite path, in the moonlight, by the gamekeeper. A few days later one of the Reade family came across the ghost in the park, but as a young woman whom he recognized by her resemblance to a portrait of her hanging in the hall at the Court, painted a year before the property had been sold. The ghost of Lady Lacy is said to still haunt her favorite walk, now known as the " Ghost's Walk." She is described as a young and beautiful woman, with a remarkably full and beautiful bust, in a low-neck gown of the time of Charles II, and a blue mantle thrown over her shoulders, while a great sadness shines in her eyes. She walks slowly in the moonlight, and after an hour is seen no more the same night. A few years ago some of the old men and old women at Shipton-under- Wychwood, stated that they had seen " her ladyship," and the story goes that when the late Sir John Chandos Reade died and left all his estate to his butler that the ghost was heard for the first time, loudly wailing as if in great trouble. Old servants' talk gives as the reason why Joseph [Wake- field] Reade, the ex-butler, built the new house and never would live at the * Richard spelled his name Read. 248 Rossiana. Court was because every night the ghost would come to him and torment him. Another later story of another ghost at Shipton Court describes noises like a person walking about in the room where Sir John Reade died, fol- lowed by a noise in the hall as of a struggle, and then a heavy thud on the stairs. Shipton Court is a beautiful place, even shorn as it is to-day of its historic portraits and relics. The author has, among many other family portraits, those of Sir Compton Reade and his wife, painted by Mrs. Beale, in the time of Charles II. These portraits hung at Shipton until the son of Joseph (Wakefield) Reade sold the place. The ancient church is well worth visiting, and contains many interesting monuments to the baronets and other members of the family. BARTON COURT DESCENT. THE Reades of Barton Court were unquestionably descended from the Northumbrian Redes, who were of Royal origin, through Cairbre Riada, who was the son of Conaire, King of Ireland, and who estab- lished the Kingdom of Dalriada on the western coast of Scotland, of which nine sovereigns ruled in succession. The ninth, Reuda (or Riada), whose Christian name is said to have been JEdan, after his defeat by Kenneth, settled in Redesdale, where he founded the clan. The early pedigree of the family prepared by the late General Meredith Read, who gave much time and effort to research, proves clearly that the connection between Rede of Redesdale and Reade of Barton Court is beyond doubt. General Read's deduction of the early Read pedigree, beginning with Rede of Troughend, is as follows: 1. Rede of Troughend, chief of the clan. 2. Brianus de Rede. 3. WlLLLIAM DE REDE. 4. Robert de Rede. 5. David de Rede. 6. Galfrinus de Rede, whose son — 7. Thomas de Rede, or de Redesdale, of Morpeth, Northumberland, had two sons — 8. Thomas de Rede, ancestor of the Barton Court line. See below. 9. John de Rede, ancestor of the Redes of the Borstall line. (See " Borstall Line.") 8. Thomas de Rede, armiger, son of Thomas of Morpeth, was lord of sev- eral manors and a part of Morpeth in 1384; was born before 1377 and was living in 1412. He had three sons — 10. Sir Thomas Rede, one of the knights and gentlemen who accom- panied Henry VI in 1439, when that king held his Parliament at Reading, Berks. 11. William Rede, Mayor of Reading, 1453-56, 1464, 1467 and 1469, and M. P. for Reading, 1435, 1460, 1462 and 1472. 12. Edward Rede. See below. 12. Edward Rede, armiger, married a daughter of Lord de Lisle, said to have been named Katherine, and was, jure uxoris, Lord of the Manor of Beedon, Berks; high sheriff of Berks, 1439 and 1451 ; M. P. for Berks, 1430-1 and 1461-2, and for Oxford, 1450. He and his wife were both buried at Beedon. They had — 13. Edward Rede, armiger, son and heir, Lord of the Manor of Beedon, who married Mary , and had — 250 Rossiana. BARTON COURT LINE. 14. Willliam Rede, or Read (sometimes styled "Sir William Rede, Knt."), Lord of the Manors of Beedon and Stanmore, of the Manor of Barton Court, in the Parish of St. Helen's, Abingdon, Berks, and Lord of the Manors of Ipsden Bassett and Ipsden Huntercombe, Oxford. He was buried, Jan. i, 1541-2, in St. Helen's church, Abingdon. He married Dorothy, daughter of John Beaumont. Lord of the Manor of Orton-on-the-Hill, alias Overton, Leicester, who. fighting for Henry VI in the Wars of the Roses, was slain with his cousin John. Viscount Beaumont, at the battle of Northampton. July 19, 1460. She was buried in St. Helen's, 1539. William Rede had a son — 15. Thomas Rede, or Read, Lord of the Manors of Beedon and Barton Court, Berks, and of Dunstew, Ipsden Bassett and Ipsden Huntercombe, Oxford; high sheriff of Barton; elected governor of Christ's Hospital, Abingdon, in 1553. Buried April 27. 1556. in St. Helen's church. Abingdon. Will dated April 16, 1556; proved June 23. 1556. Married Anne, daughter of Sir Thomas Hoo, Knt., of Hoo, Paul's Walden, Herts, who was son of Thomas Hoo, of Hoo, the son of Thomas Hoo, of the same place, who was son of Sir Thomas Hoo, Knt.. one of the heroes of Agincourt. and brother of Thomas Lord Hoo and Hastings, whose daughter Anne, by Sir Geoft'rey Boleyn, Knt.. her first husband, was great-great-granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth. She is mentioned in her husband's will, dated April 16, 1556. Buried at St. Helen's, Abingdon, Oct. 30, 1575; will dated Oct. 25, 1575; proved Dec. 3, 1575. Thomas Rede, or Read, had — 16. Sir Thomas Read, Knt. (by some authorities called Thomas Read, Esq.), Lord of the Manors of Beedon, Barton Court, Appleford, Long Wit- tenham, Stanmore, Peasemore and Sunningwell, Berks; of Denford, Northampton; and Dunstew, Ipsden Bassett and Ipsden Huntercombe, Oxford; high sheriff of Berks, 1581-2, and 1599; executor of his mother's will, dated Oct. 25. 1575; knighted by Queen Elizabeth in 1599. Had a con- firmation of the Read arms, viz.: '"Gules, a saltire between four garbs or," and a grant of the following crest, viz.: "On the stump of an oak tree raguly lying fesswise vert, a falcon rising proper, beaked and belled or, jessed gules," by Camden, Clarenceux King of Arms. He died Sept. 25, 1604, at his manor house, Beedon, and was buried Dec. 26, 1604, at St. Helen's, Abing- don, Berks. Funeral observed Jan. 26, 1604-5. Will dated April 14, 1604; proved April 24, 1605. He married Mary, daughter of George Stonehouse, Lord of the Manors of Little or West Peckham, near Tunbridge, Kent, and Radley, Berks; one of the clerks of the Green Cloth, tempp. Philip and Mary, and Elizabeth, and sister of Sir William Stonehouse, first baronet of Radley. Married before 1568. Buried Sept. 14, 1625, at St. Helen's, Abing- don. Sir Thomas Read had eight children, among them Richard Read, ancestor of the American Reads (see "American Line") and — 17. Sir Thomas Read, Knt., Lord of the Manors of Beedon, Barton Court, of Long Wittenham, Berks ; of Denford, Northampton ; Ipsden and Dunstew, Oxford; and of Minsden, Hitchin and (jure uxoris) Brocket Hall, Herts; patron of the livings of Little Ayot, Herts; Beedon, Berks; and Dun- Barton Court Line. 251 stew and North Aston, Oxford ; J. P. of Berks ; high sheriff of Berks, 1606 ; of Oxford, 1615, and of Herts, 1618. Born, 1575; was educated at Queen's College, Oxford; became a student of the Middle Temple in 1594, and was incorporated M. A. of Aberdeen University, May 28, 1620. Knighted at Roy- ston July 21, 1616. Buried Dec. 20, 1650, at Dunstew. Will dated June 28, 1650; proved Feb. 8, 1650-1. He married Mary, fifth daughter and co-heir of Sir John Brocket, Knt. (of Brocket Hall, Hatfield, Co. Herts), Lord of the Manor of Symonds Hide (with which was incorporated the Manor of Almeshoebury ), and jure uxoris, of Minsden, both in the same county; sheriff of Herts in 1566 and 1581 ; by Helen, his first wife, eldest daughter and co-heir of Sir Robert Lytton, Knt., of Knebworth, Herts, and of Shrub- land Hall, Suffolk. Married March 1597-8. Buried April 20, 1654, at Hat- held; will dated May 2J, 165 1 ; proved May 4, 1654. Sir Thomas Read's son, Sir John, became the first baronet of Brocket Hall. (See "Baronets of Brocket Hall.") His eldest son and heir was — 18. Thomas Read, of Barton Court, St. Helen's, Abingdon; of Apple- ford, Sutton Courtney, Berks, and of Ipsden, Oxford. Born at Barton Court, Feb. 2, 1606-7 ; bapt. Feb. 22, 1606-7, at St. Helen's ; educated at Magdalen College, Oxford; died vita patris; buried Dec. 14, 1634, at St. Mary's, Burford, Salop. He married Mary, daughter of Sir Thomas Cornewall, Knt., Baron of Burford, Salop, called '* the great baron," and sister of Sir Gilbert Cornewall, Knt., Baron of Burford. She was baptized at St. Mary's, Burford, Sept. 10. 1600, and married there Sept. 8, 1624. Thomas Read had nine children, among them Sir Compton Reade, founder of the Shipton Court line. (See " Baro- nets of Shipton Court."') BORSTALL LINE. 9. John Rede, sergeant-at-law, second son of Thomas de Rede of Mor- peth, was the ancestor of the Redes of the Borstall line. He married Cecelia, daughter and co-heir of Griffin Marmion, of Checkendon, Oxford, who after his death, married, secondly, William Faukner. She died May 20, 1428, and was buried at Checkendon. William Rede, son of John Rede, founded Bor- stall church, and died in 1473. Another son was — 1 Edmund Rede, of Checkendon ( d. Oct. 8, 1430), who married Christina (d. March 28, 1435). daughter and heiress of Robert James, of Wallingford. Lord of Borstall, Bucks, which he had acquired by his marriage with Catherine, only surviving daughter and heiress of Sir Edmund de la Pole, Knight Banneret, of Kingston-upon-Hull, York. Edmund Rede, first of the Borstall Redes, had — 1 Rev. Compton Reade, in his " Record of the Redes," intimates that the first Edward, of the main line, and his cousin, Edmund, of the Borstall line, were the same person or at least that Edmund, and not Edward, was high sheriff of Oxon and Bucks (1438, 1450), principally because the former's " vast wealth points him out as a probable sheriff." This deduction, for which there is no proof, would seem to be purely con- jectural. Fuller, on the other hand, gives the name of Edwardus Rede in his list of high sheriffs. Edmund Rede (of the Borstall line) was a personage of wealth and influence, but his arms were not at all like those of Barton Court. He bore three birds, and his crest was a boar. Fuller gives the arms of Edwardus Rede as " a red shield, a gold saltire between four garbs of wheat " (gules a saltire between four garbs or), the same as is borne by the Read family to-day. 252 Rossiana. Sir Edmund Rede, K. B., hereditary warden of Borstall and Bernwood Forest (b. 1416; d. June 7, 1487), created a Knight of the Bath at the coro- nation of Elizabeth, queen of Edward IV, May 20, 1464. He married, first, Agnes, daughter of John Cottesmore (living in 1435) ; secondly, Catherine, daughter of Walter Greene, of Bridgenorth, Salop, widow of Nicholas Gaynesford, by whom she had issue. Among other issue by his second wife, Sir Edmund had — William Rede, of Borstall, mentioned in his father's will, who married Anna, daughter of Sir Walter Mantle, Knt., of Heyford, Northampton, by whom he had two sons — Edmund Rede, who died s. p., and — Sir William Rede, Knt., of Borstall; J. P. for Oxford, 1515 ; one of the nobles attendant upon King Henry VIII at his meeting with the French King at the Field of the Cloth of Gold, 1520; devisee of the "great horn of Xigel the Forester;" mentioned as father of Leonard Rede in a letter dated April, 1532. He married, first. Anne, daughter of Sir John Twyneho, Knt., Horn of Nigel tin- For* of Bristol. He died Aug. 22, 1551 ; her will, which is in the Archdeaconry of Berks, dated Aug. 13, 1550. describes her as " Dame Anne Rede of Walling- ford, Co. Berks, widow." Sir William married, as second wife, Anne, daugh- ter of William Warham, who afterward married George Gaynesford, of Oxford. Among other issue. Sir William had — Leonard Rede, of Borstall, who married, first Anne, daughter of John Heron of Heron, Kent; secondly (before Feb. 6. 1527), Anne, daughter of Sir Wilford, Knt., alderman of London. After Leonard Rede's death, his widow married Thomas Read, of Muswell, Oxford, son of Thomas Read, of the New Forest, Southampton. Among other issue by his first wife, Leonard had a daughter and heir, Catherine, of London ( d. 1547), who married (Aug. 16. 1546) Thomas Dynham, who thus became, jure uxoris, Lord of Borstall and Chief Forester and Steward of Bernwood. The early Borstall line of descent prior to the accession of Edmund Rede, son of John Rede, sergeant-at-law. given in a pedigree found among the records of the late General Meredith Read, is as follows: 1. Nigel, Forester of Borstall before the Conquest, had- — 2. William Fitz Nigel (d- 1204), who married Mabel and had — Baronets of Shipton Court. 253 3. Sir John Fitz Nigel, Knt., of Borstall (d. 1242), who married Isolda and had — 4. Sir John Fitz Nigel, Knt., or Johannes de Borstall (d. 1289), who married Isabel (living 1305) and had — 5. Joane, sole daughter and heir, who married (1299) Sir John de Handlo, Knt. Banneret, Lord of Hadlow. Kent; bailiff of Shotover Forest. Oxford (d. Aug. 5, 1346). They had — 6. Richard he Handlo, who married Isabella, daughter of Almaric de St. Amand, and had — 7. Margaret, eldest daughter and co-heir (d. 1394), who married, first, Gilbert de Chastelain; secondly, John de Appleby, Lord of Borstall, jure uxoris, who died s. p. 1372, and the title and estate passed to — 8. Elizabeth, youngest daughter and co-heir of Richard de Handlo, who had livery of her brother's lands, and was aged 18 in 1355. She mar- ried Sir Edmund de la Pole, Knt., Captain of Calais (d. 1418, seized of Borstall, jure uxoris). He was the grandson of William de la Pole, mer- chant of Kingston-upon-Hull, and son of Sir William de la Pole, Knt., Mayor of Hull, Baron of the Exchequer, Knt. Banneret (d. 1366). Sir Edmund had one son, Walter, who d. s. p., and two daughters, Elizabeth, eldest daughter and co-heir, who married Sir Ingelram Bruyn, Knt., who held one moiety of Borstall, jure uxoris, and — 9- Catharine, youngest daughter and co-heir of Sir Edmund de la Pole, married Robert James, Esq., of Wallingford. Lord of Borstall, jure uxoris (d. Feb. 16. 1431). Their sole daughter, Christina (d. March 28, 1435, aged 34) married Edmund Rede, Esq., who thus became, jure uxoris, Lord of Borstall. Guillim, in his " Display of Heraldry " (page 225), has the following: " Azure three pheasant cocks or, is born by the name of Read." This was the coat-of-arms of John Read, son of George, the son of Leonard Read, Esq.. and his wife, daughter of John Heron, which Leonard was the son and heir of Sir William Read, of Borstall, Kt, and Anna, his wife, daughter of Nicholas Warham, brother of William, Archbishop of Canterbury, which Sir William was the son of William, the son of Edmund Read and Katharine, his wife, which Sir Edmund was son and heir of Edmund Read, Esq., and his wife, Christiana, daughter of Robert James, Esq. BARONETS OF SHIPTON COURT. Of all the English Redes, Reades or Reads, the most interesting and splendid personage of them all was our own Sir Compton Reade (1626-1679), founder of the Shipton Court line. The compiler has a number of interest- ing documents signed by Sir Compton. He was first baronet, third creation, Lord of the Manors of Beedon and Barton Court, Berks, and of Shipton Court, Shipton-under-Wychwood, Oxford; high sheriff of Berks, 1663, and patron of Beedon, 1672. He was the eldest son and heir of Thomas Reade, Esq. (1607-34), of Barton Court and Appleford, Berks, and of Ipsden, Oxford. He was baptized at St. Mary's, Burford, Salop, January 24, 1625-6; educated at Magdalen Hall, Oxford; created a baronet by letters- patent bearing date March 4, 1660-1; died September 29. 1679, and was buried CHART OF THE DESCENT OF THE READE BARONETS OF SHIPTON COURT. 1. Sir Compton Reade=Mary Cornewall. (First Baronet.) I 2 I Thomas, (d. unm.) 3 I Sir Edward. (2d Bart.) Elizabeth Harby. 4 I Anne. Cornelius Vermuyden. No ch. 5 I Mary, (d. young.) 6 I Elizabeth. Sir Fairmedow Penyston. No eh. 7 I Sir Winwood. (3d Bart.) (d. aet. 9.) Sir Thomas. (4th Bart.) Jane Mary Dutton. 9 I Edward, (d. 1686.) 10 | Gen. George. Jane Nowes. No ch. 11 Sir John. (5th Bart.) Harriet Barker. 12 | Sir John. (6th Bart.) Jane Hoskyns. 13 I Thomas. Catherine Hill. 13a | Mary. Sir Elijah Impey. 14 I Sir John Chandos. (7th Bart.) Louisa Murray. 15 | Capt. George Compton. Maria Jane Hoskyns. 16 I Harriet. 17 I (Twins.) Louisa. r- 19 I Compton. (d. unm.) 20 1 John Chandos. (d. young.) 21 I Louisa Jane. (d. unm.) 37 I George. (Heir apparent.) 38 | Elmer. Julia Jane. (d. 1837.) John Edmund. Maria Louisa Reade. Agnes Cornelie. Arnold Highton Reade. Susan. Capt. Charles ( lhamberlayne Irvine. Emily Jane. 22 | Emily. 23 | Clara Louisa. John Talbot Rice. 24 | George. Jane Ann Norton. 25 | John Stanhope Lovica Walton. 1 30 | Sir Chandos Stanhope Hoskyns. (8th Bart.) 31 1 Louisa Jane Elibank. 32 | Sir George Compton. (9th Bart.) Maria Emma Elizabeth Conway. No ch. Rev. S. M. Wade. Melissa Ray. 39 | Harry. 40 | Emory. 41 | Julia. 42 | Ellen. 26 I Chandos. (d. young.) 27 | Catherine Julia, (d. unm.) 33 | Charles Walter. 34 | Catherine. 43 | Esther. 44 | Edna. Harriet Lucy. Roberts. 28 | Maria Louisa. John Edmund Reade. 35 | Christian. 29 | Caroline Jane. Skurr. 36 I Maria Louisa. 45 | Sonorah. 254 Rossiana. at Shipton-under-Wychwood. He married (at Dunstew, Oxford, 1650) his cousin, Mary Cornewall. eldest daughter of Sir Gilbert Cornewall, knight, Baron of Burford. She died April 26. 1703, aged 76, and was buried at Shipton-under-Wychwood. A brief pedigree of the Shipton Court line of baronets, taken from the detailed chart prepared by General Meredith Read in 1893 is as follows: 1. Sir Compton Reade, first baronet of Shipton Court (bapt. Jan. 24, 1625-6; d. Sept. 29, 1679) married (1650) Mary Cornewall (b. 1627; d. April Sir Compton Reade (1626-1679), first I'aronet of Shipton Court, and who purchased the Shipton estate in 1663. From a paint- ing by Mrs. Beale. 26, 1703, aged 76), his cousin, daughter of Sir Gilbert Cornewall. Knt., Baron of Burford. They had — 2. Thomas (b. Dec. 13, 1653; d. 1675, unmarried); educated at Christ church, Oxford. 3. Sir Edward, second baronet. See below. 4. Anne (b. June 14, 1652; d. 1681), of St. Margaret's, Westminster, Middlesex; married Cornelius Vermuyden (b. 1626), of Corn- wall, eldest son and heir of Sir Cornelius Vermuyden, Knt., of Hatfield, York, and of London. 5. Mary (bapt, July 16, 1656; d. 1663). Baronets of Shipton Court. 255 6. Elizabeth (bapt. Oct. 11, 1657; d. 1688) ; married Sir Fairmedow Penyston (b. 1665; d. Dec. 24, 1705), fourth baronet of Corn- well, Oxford. He married, secondly, Alary, eldest daughter of John Powney, of Old Windsor. Berks, and widow of Sir William Paul, Knt., of Bray, Oxford, who died Jan. 10, 1714, aged 66. Sir Fairmedow Penyston, dying s. p., the baronetcy of Cornwell became extinct. 3. Sir Edward Reade, second baronet (b. June 30, 1659; d. Sept. 4, 1691), was educated at St. Alary Hall, Oxford; was executor of his father's Lady Penyston (165T-16SS), daughter of Sir Compton Reade, first Baronet of Shipton Court, and wife of Sir Fairmedow Penyston, fourth and last Baronet of Cornwell. will, dated Sept. 9. 1679. He married Elizabeth (b. 1661). daughter of Fran- cis Harby, of Adston, Northampton, who survived him and married, sec- ondly, Henry Farmer. In her will, dated July 15, 1729, she is described as " Dame Elizabeth Read, alias Farmore, of Shipton, Co. Oxon." By her Sir Edward Reade had — 7. Sir Winwood Reade, third baronet (b. 1683 ; d. June 30, 1692, aged 9 years). 8. Sir Thomas Reade, fourth baronet. .See below. 9. Edward Reade (d. 1686). 10. George Reade (b. 1687; d. Mch. 28, 1756), of Shipton, lieuten- ant-general in the army, and colonel of a regiment of foot; 2^6 Rossiana. M. P. for borough of Tewkesbury, Gloucester, 1721-2, and again in 1727. He married Jane (b. 1689; d. July 24, 1744), daughter of Charles Nowes, of Wood Ditton, Cambridge, and of the Middle Temple. No issue. 8. Sir Thomas Reade. fourth baronet (b. 1684: d. Sept. 25, 1752), was Patron of Beedon; one of the Gentlemen to the Privy Chamber to King George I: Clerk of the Household to King George II. and M. P. in five Parliaments for Cricklade, Wilts. He married (Oct. 29. 1719) Jane Mary Sir Thomas Reade (16S4-1732), fourth Baronet of Shipton Court. From a portrait by Sir Godfrey Kneller. (d. June 28, 1721), daughter of Sir Ralph Dalton. first Baronet of Sher- borne. Gloucester, M. P. for that county. They had — 11. Sir John Reade, fifth baronet ( b. 1721 : d. Nov. 9, 1773), only son and heir, and nephew and heir-at-iaw of General George Reade. He mar- ried (1759) Harriet (b. 1727; d. Dec. 23. 1S04). only child and heir of Wil- liam Barker, of Sonning, Berks, by Olivia, his wife. They had — 12. Sir John Reade, sixth baronet. See below. 13. Thomas Reade ( b. March 8, 1762, twin with his brother, Sir John: d. Jan. 24, 1837), of the city of Bath, Somerset. He married Catherine (d. 1830), daughter of Sir John Hill, by whom he had four children — John Edmund Reade, the poet Baronets of Shipton Court. 257 (d. Sept. 17, 1870), who married (Oct. 1, 1847) Maria Louisa (d. Nov. 24, 1886). daughter of Captain George Compton Reade, of the First Foot Guards, and had one daughter, Agnes Cornelie, who married (Oct. 1, 1881) Arnold Highton Reade (formerly Arnold Highton), only son of Edward Gilbert Highton, M. A., Cambridge, barrister-at-law of Lincoln's Inn ; Susan Reade, who married Captain Charles Chamberlayne w.\." ; \ ^tefl fr.lt... „,^. ,. ^ - ■ - — ■^£\j&k/^JL^&.-.s^y.f •-> -- a -|^l gH> ■ M * ^O K;->v£ifc; V.".' —v. fif* -•*• rfc yif «fc] ■&* B UQia H^vs^ v ~ H '3H^M~^HKiB£B!li]« r 99 : % ■^■IBIH 'SBGSsflf'^gSSSSf^ « H^B-' 1 ** .., .^>-^Ja'''^5^^- 1 v.Vj> ? '.' ■ \ 'Jk&^Li ^K|[ ■«! jftrln ■■"■■" Ji^^m^B^ I " r ...; J|&g|& ;F|"' H S ;-""- ■ '>'^s^^- 4 '9M Is t ^^^^^^^X^^^i "^ ?**; t* _,^ ^ ^ii^. General George Reade (1687-1756), grandson of Sir Compton Reade, first Baronet of Shipton Court, and brother of Sir Thomas Reade, fourth Baronet. Irvine, R. N. ; Emily Jane Reade; Harriet Lucy Reade, who married — ■ — Roberts. 12. Sir John Reade, sixth baronet (b. March 8, 1762, twin with his brother Thomas; d. Nov. 18, 1789), was educated at Magdalen College, Oxford (M. A., July 2, 1783). He married (Jan. 13, 1784) Jane ( b. 1756; d. 1847), second but only surviving daughter of Sir Chandos Hoskyns, fifth baronet of Harewood-End, Ross, Hereford. They had — 14. Sir John Chandos Reade, seventh baronet. See below. 15. George Compton. See below. 16. Harriet, twin with her sister Louisa, who died young a few days before her father. 258 Rossi a ii a. 17. Luuisa. twin with her sister Harriet, who died young, surviving her father but a few months. 18. Julia Jane, who was born posthumously in 1790. Died April 9, 1837- 14. Sir John Chandos Reade, seventh baronet (b. Jan. 13, 1785; d. Jan. 14, 1868). was high sheriff of Oxford, 181 1, and Patron of Beedon, Berks, 1828; eldest son and heir male of Sir John Reade, sixth baronet, and grand- son and heir male of Sir John Reade, fifth baronet; also heir-at-law of Sir Thomas Reade, fourth baronet, and of George Reade, of Shipton Court, brother of the said Sir Thomas, as appears by a certain indenture bearing date Jan. 26, 1813 ; was educated at Harrow and afterwards at Christ church, Oxford. He married (Jan. 6, 1814) Louisa t d. Feb. 6, 1821, aged 31), young- est daughter of the Hon. David Murray (by Elizabeth, his wife, fourth daughter and co-heir of the Hon. Thomas llarley. Lord Mayor of London in 1767, and granddaughter of Edward, third Earl of Oxford), who was brother of Alexander, seventh Baron Elibank, and son of the Hon. and Rev. Gideon Murray, D. D., prebendary of Lincoln, and afterwards of Durham, and rector of Carlton, Notts. Sir John Chandos, dying without heir male, the baronetcy passed to his brother's grandson, Chandos Stanhope Hoskyns Reade (30). Sir John Chandos Reade had — 19. CoMPTON (b. Oct. 17, 1814; d. July 31, 1X51) ; educated at Trinity College. Oxford. 20. John Chandos (b. Feb. 8, 1816; d. Jan. 25, 1818). 21. Louisa Jane (1>. July 20, 1.S17; d. Feb. 9, 1837, unmarried). 22. Emily (b. April 30. 1819). 23. Clara Louisa (b. Jan. 25, 1X21 ; d. Aug. 11. 1853) ; married (Oct. 13. [846) the lion. John Talbot Rice (b. 1819), of Oddington House, Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucester (jure uxoris) J. P. for that county; brother of Francis William, fifth Baron Dynevor, and fifth son of the Hon. and Very Rev. Edward Rice, D. D., Dean of Gloucester, and rector of Great Risington, Gloucester, lie married, secondly (Oct. 24. 1X55). Elizabeth Lucy, daughter of Robert Boyd. 15. Captain George Compton Reade (b. Jan. 8, 1788; d. Dec. 24, 1866), of the First Foot Guards, second son of Sir John Reade. sixth baronet, mar- ried (March 6, 1809) Maria Jane (d. 1837), his cousin, daughter of Sir Hun- gerford Hoskyns. sixth baronet of Harewood End, Ross, Hereford. They had — 24. George. See below. 25. John Stanhope. See below. 26. Chandos Reaue (b. 181 7; d. Sept., 1833, aged 16). 27. Catherine Julia (b. 1813; d. April, 1824, unmarried). 28. Maria Louisa (d. Nov. 24, e886) married (Oct. 1, 1847) John Edmund Reade, the poet. (See children of Thomas Reade [13]). 29. Caroline Jane (deceased. 1893) married Skurr. 24. George Reade (b. 1812; d. 1863), lieutenant Madras Army, married Jane Ann, daughter of J. Norton, and had — Baronets of Brocket Hall. 259 30. Sir Chandos Stanhope Hoskyns Reade, eighth baronet (b. Sept. 5, 183 1 ; d. Jan. 28, 1890, s. p.), D. L. for Anglesey, married (March 11, 1880) Maria Emma Elizabeth Conway, daughter and heir of Richard Trygam Griffith, of Carreglwyd and Berw, Anglesey. The title then passed to Sir Chandos' cousin, George Compton (32). 31. Louisa Jane Eubank married (April 26, 1892) Rev. Sed- borough Mayne Wade, M. A., Cambridge, curate of St. Leon- ard's-on-Sea, Sussex, formerly curate of St. James" Chelten- ham, Gloucester, sun of Gustavus Rockfort Wade. 25. John Stanhope Reade ( d. 1N83) married (1836) Lovica Walton, of Dexter. Michigan, U. S. A., and had — 32. George Compton. See belozv. 33. Charles Walter. 34. Catherine. 35. Christian. 36. Maria Louisa. 32. Sir George Compton Reade (b. Dec. 17, 1845), resident at Howell, Livingstone county, Michigan, U. S. A., ninth and present baronet, succeeded his cousin, January 28, 1890. He married (June 4, 1863) Melissa, daughter of Isaac Ray, of Michigan, and had — 37. George Read (b. Nov. 22, 1869), heir apparent. 38. Elmer Reade (b. Nov. 1, 1877). 39. Harry Reade (b. April 18, 1884). 40. Emory Reade (b. Oct. 9, 1887). 41. Julia (b. Dec. 25, 1870). 42. Ellen (b. March 22, 1874). 43. Esther (b. Jan. 15, 1876). 44. Edna (b. Aug. 11, 1879). 45. Sonorah (b. June 7, 1881). BARONETS OF BROCKET HALL. Sir John Read, Knight and first Baronet of Brocket Hall (parish of Hatfield ) and Minsden, Herts, and of Dunstew, Oxon, was a son of Sir Thomas Reade, Knight, and his wife, Mary Brocket, daughter and co-heiress of Sir John Brocket, Knight, of Brocket Hall. Sir John Reade was born in 1617, and was 46 years of age at the time of his second marriage in 1663; was knighted at Newmarket, March 12, 1642; created a Baronet by letters patent dated March 16, 1642, granted a fresh patent of baronetcy by Cromwell, June 25, 1656, being the first hereditary honor awarded by the latter. Sir John was high sheriff of Herts, 1655, and was buried in the Reade and Brocket chapel at Hatfield, February 6, 1694. He married, first, Susanne, daughter of Sir Thomas Style, Bart., of Wateringbury, and, secondly, Alissimon, widow of Hon. F. Pierpont. By his first wife, Susanne, Sir John had five sons — John. Thomas, Stephen, James and Peter. The first three sons seem to have disappeared in some mysterious way, as no mention has been found of them, and the baronetcy and estate descended to the fourth son — 260 Rossi a 11 a. Sir James Read, second Baronet (1655-1701), who married Love (1655- 1731), daughter of Alderman Dring, and had, with five daughters, an only- son — Sir John Read, third and last Baronet of Brocket Hall, who was born 1691 ; educated at Eton; matriculated at Wadham College, Oxford, Novem- ber 7, 1705: died, unmarried, of the small-pox, February 22, 1712, aged 21 years, at Rome, when the Baronetcy became extinct, and Brocket Hall and Dunstew passed to his sisters. Iiihx Read (1691-1712), third and last P.aronet of Brocket Hall. From an ancient painting. Sir John Read. Kt.. and first Baronet of Brocket Hall, had two coats of arms — the inherited arms of his family and one granted him with the baronetcy, azure a griffin segreant or. In 1X10 a peixm styling himself "the Rev. Sir William Reade, Bart., Rector and Prebendary of Tomgrany, in the County of Clare," Ireland, appeared before the College of Arms, London, and sought to establish his claim to the Baronetcy of Brocket Hall. His pretensions were based on the statement that he was the great-great-grandson of Sir John Reade, first baronet, and great-grandson of "Sir Matthew" Reade, an alleged The American Line. 261 brother of Sir James Reade, second baronet. These claims, upon investiga- tion, were found to be without foundation. It is believed, however, that he was a descendant of the family, but not of the Baronet. THE AMERICAN LINE. Richard Read (or Reade), of Culham Rectory, Oxfordshire, ancestor of the American Reads, was the third son of Thomas Reade (living 1549, d. 1604) and Mary Stonehouse (d. 1625), and was consequently the grandson of Thomas Reade (d. 1556), the first Lord of Barton Court. Richard Read was born at Barton Court in 1579, and was baptized August 16 of that year, at St. Helen's, Abingdon, Berks. He matriculated at Queen's College, Oxford, with his brothers, Thomas and John, July 6, 1593, at which date he was fourteen years of age. and was a student of the Middle Temple in 1595. He signs himself Richard Read (without the final e) to a bond dated January 11, 1604-5, and at the same time was administrator of his brother John, who died without issue. He again signs his name without the final e to an indenture dated May 9, 1625 (in which he is described as "of Dunstew"), but appends his signature with a final e to another indenture bearing the same date. Richard Read was associated and named with his brother. Sir Thomas, and the latter's wife, Mary Brocket, in a license of alienation granted by Lord Chancellor Bacon in 1625, allowing them to give and grant to William Stonehouse, Esq. (their maternal uncle), 40 acres of meadow, 30 acres of pasture and 30 acres of wood in Barton and Radley, Berks. This document was in possession of Richard's descendant. General Meredith Read, and is accompanied by a large portion of the Great Seal. Richard Read married Helen, the eldest child of Sir Alexander Cave, Knt., of Bargrave and Rotherby, Leicester, High Sheriff of Leicestershire, 1620-1, by Anne, second daughter and co-heiress of Sir John Brocket, Knt., of Brocket Hall, in the parish of Hatfield, Lord of the Manor of Symonds Hide (with Almeshoebury ), and, jure uxoris. of Minsden, both in the same county, High Sheriff of Herts in 1566 and 1581, by Helen, his first wife, eldest daughter and co-heiress of Sir Robert Lytton, Knt., of Knebworth, Herts, and of Shrubland Hall, Suffolk, High Sheriff of the counties of Herts and Essex. She was named after her grandmother, Helen Lytton, and was born about 1601 ; married before 1622 (probably about 1619) ; died, having had issue, at Dunstew. and was buried there February 25, 1623. Thus Rich- ard wedded the niece of his elder brother's wife, and became, by marriage, his brother's nephew. ("A Record of the Redes.") Richard Read died at Dunstew in 1659 — nine years after the death of his eldest brother. Sir Thomas, and one before the Restoration. His eldest son, Alexander (1620-1681), married Mary Ruffin (January r, 1649), daughter of Thomas Ruffin, of Ayot Parva, Herts, had the Manor of Pomney granted him. Pomney formed part of the group of manors included in the Abbatial Manor of Barton, and lies directly facing Nuneham. Alexander Read had nine children, some of whom went to Ireland Richard Read's second son — 262 Rossi a ii a. Sir Charles Read (1622-1674), of Whitefriars, London, and of Dublin, was undoubtedly a man of mark. He went over to Ireland during the civil war, in the King's cause, and in two separate documents of different dates (the first being May 16, 168S) he is styled " Sir Charles," having doubtless received the accolade in Dublin. Inasmuch as he was knighted for his services to the Royal cause, it has been conjectured that he had joined in the defense of Barton Court. He was buried at St. Bride's, Fleet street, April 6, 1674. By his wife, Catherine Russell, a kinswoman of his cousin, Sir William Russell, of Strensham, he had four sons and one daughter, Elizabeth, who married Thomas Ruffin (d. 1677). Sir Charles Read's eldest son — Henry Read (1662) married Mary Molines, a descendant of the old Oxfordshire house of De Molines, which survives in Lord Ventry. Henry Read's only son — John Read (1688-1756) was the first of the family to cross over to America, and became Colonel John Read of Delaware. ( See " Read of Delaware.") He was also proprietor of Kinsley Manor in Maryland. DESCENT FROM JOHN OF GAUNT. The Brocket alliance gave the Reades of Brocket Hall and Shipton Court. as well as the American Reads, a descent from John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. King of Castille, etc., third son of King Edward III, as follows: John of Gaunt = as his third wife, Catherine, daughter of Sir Payne Roelt, and widow of Sir Otho de Swynford. and had — Joan de Beaufort = secondly, Ralph Nevill, Earl of Westmoreland, and had — Joan Nevill = Thomas de Fauconberg, Lord Fauconberg, and had — Joan or Johanna de Fauconberg = Thomas Brocket, and had — Sir Thomas Brocket = Elizabeth, heiress of Philip Ashe, and had — Edward Brocket = Elizabeth Thwaites, and had — Sir John Brocket = Lucy, daughter of John Poulter, of Hitchin, and had — John Brocket = Dorothy Huson, and had — Sir John Brocket (2)=Margaret, daughter of William Benstede, of St. Peter's, Herts, and had — Sir John Brocket = as his first wife. Helen, daughter of Sir Robert Lytton, of Knebworth. and had — (1.) Mary Brocket = Sir Thomas Reade, ancestor of the English branch — (2.) Anne Brocket = Sir Alexander Cave and had — Helen Cave = Richard Reade, great-grandfather of Colonel John Read, of Delaware, ancestor of the American branch. ; DESCENT OK THE IPSDEN READES FROM READE OK BARTON COURT. American Reads. Thomas. = Mary (b. 1600). Sir John. = 1. J uaanne, dau. of Sir T. (16061631.) Daughter of Sir Heir of Sir Thomas Come- Style. Had is Thomas and an- wall. Baron of sue. (d. 1657.) cestor of the Burford. = 2. Alias! Shipton and (Si pont. ib 162-') Ipsden Readcs. Sir Compluii. = Mary CornewaM. (1626-1679.) dau. of Sir Gil- Edward. — 1. Jane Acton. (1620-1657.) Founder of the bert Cornewali. (1627-1716.) = 2. Elizabeth Al- len, (d. 1664.) line. ford. 0627-1703 ) = 3. Mrs. Ellen Al len. (d. 16SS.I =4. Susanna. (m. 1697; living 1717.) Herbert Charles. (1844-1862.) Winifred (187(7) Edward Burnard. (1880.) Evelyn Mertrfith. (1887.) Dragoon Guard; Scott G. Compton. am.) son of Joh"R«d" lVs-r^rf lp 5 °!en ' nf vTs toruh, Mi^LtT"* "? En 8 1W ' °°«"« ta °{ th 5 '"^ quarter of the 19th Century. He was the youngest B V. iu 1835, with a third class in classics, "as elect" V iner ian L^Wh , a " d was e.iu, ,ted or the bar He entered Magdalen College, Osford, proceeded hi, Hfe that he took up literature and achieved thathigh ^uta^ta 'X'JSiV^ r^ac^Sii Wm!" ' r "" ' "* ^ " W " ""P"*™* ^ in Descent of the American Family of Read. ■£&&&< dm i ANCIENT AND HISTORIC FAMILY OF READ OF DELAWARE. THE first ancestor in this country was Colonel John Read, a wealthy and public-spirited Southern planter, who was born in Dublin January 15, 1688, of English parentage, in the last year of the reign of James the Second. His mother was the scion of an old Oxfordshire house, and his father, an English gentleman of large fortune, then residing in Dublin, was filth in descent from Thomas Read, lord of the manors of Barton and Beedon, in Berkshire, and high sheriff of Berks in 1581, and tenth in descent from Edward Read, lord of the manor of Beedon. and high sheriff of Berks in 1439 and again in 1451. One of the latter's brothers, William Read, six times mayor of Reading, was member of Parliament for Reading in 1453, 1460, 1462 and 1472. An older brother, Sir Thomas Read, was one of the knights who accompanied King Henry the Sixth when he held his Parlia- ment at Reading in 1439. and they were all sons of Thomas Read, lord of various manors in Northumberland. In the civil wars of the seventeenth century, says Mr. Charles Reade, the family declared for the crown, and its then chief, Sir Compton Read, was for his services one of the first baronets created by Charles the Second after the Restoration. A younger son of the family went over to Ireland in the same troubles, and it was his son who was the progenitor of the American house. Besides the baronetcy of the 4th March, 1660, an earlier one had been conferred upon Sir John Read on the 16th March, 1641. Through a clerical error in one of the patents an e was added to the name, and was sub- sequently adopted by the English branches. The historical American branch retained the ancient form which the name had when it left England, and it figures thus on the petition to the King of the Congress of 1774, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States and many other earlier and later State papers. 1 " Colonel John Read," says Scharf in his " History of Delaware," had a romantic history. He fell in love at an early age in the old country with his cousin, a beautiful and accomplished girl, who died suddenly before their engagement ended in marriage. This shock so overcame the lover that, after struggling in vain against his melancholy amidst familiar scenes, he determined, in spite of the earnest opposition of his parents, to seek relief in entire change. Crossing the ocean to Maryland, he purchased lands in several counties in that province, to which he added others in Delaware and Virginia. On his home plantation in Cecil county, Maryland, where his eldest son George was born, he possessed a spacious brick mansion, subse- 1 " Read Archives and Muniments," " Burke's Peerage under Reade olim Read, Bart," " Burke's General Armory," " Charles Reade's Sketch of his Kinsman, Chief Justice John Meredith Read, of Pennsylvania," published in The Graphic, London, March 6, 1875; republished in Magazine of American History, March, 1SS6. 266 Rossiana. quently destroyed by fire, with outbuildings and offices and comfortable quarters for his slaves, whom he treated with an unvarying humanity which became hereditary in his family. Groves of oak grew near the house, and tulips of great rarity bloomed in the gardens. Jim was the head of his house servants, as Juba was the head of those in the next generation. The product of the wheat and tobacco plantations were dispatched to Philadelphia and to England, and found their way back in various attractive and practical shapes for the use of the household. He was fond of field sports, and the woods rang with the sound of his dogs and his guns. He was both hos- pitable and generous. He gave all the land to endow the churches in his vicinity, both in Maryland and Delaware, and his life was honorable in all its Early English Silver Tankard which belonged to Colonel John Read (1688-1756). relations. Being largely interested in various enterprises, he joined a few other gentlemen in founding the city of Charlestown, at the head-waters of the Chesapeake Bay, twelve years after Baltimore was begun, hoping to make it a great commercial mart to absorb Northern trade, to develop Northern Maryland, and to give a suitable impetus and outlet to the adjoin- ing forges and furnaces of the Principio Company, in which his friends, the elder generations of the Washington family, and eventually General Wash- ington himself, were deeply interested. Tradition preserves in this connection an account of the youthful Major Washington's visit to Colonel Read at the close of the latter's active and well-spent life." As one of the original proprietors of Charlestown, John Read was appointed by the Colonial Legislature one of the commissioners to lay out and govern the new town, and he was assiduous in his attentions to these Read of Delaware. 267 duties. In the course of his active career he held several military commis- sions, and in the latter part of his life he resided on his plantation in New- castle county, Delaware, where he died June 15. 1756, in the 69th year of his age, and was buried in Newcastle county. Colonel John Read signed his will on the day of his death (June 15, 1756), as is mentioned in an indenture some 35 years later, for the original will was carried away by the British army with many of the public records of Newcastle county. Among his estates in Maryland was one called Kinsley, which he pur- chased February 2, 1742, from Jacob Rogers, of London, clerk, who purchased this manorial grant from Lord Baltimore, Nov. 20, 1735. He owned several other plantations in Cecil county, one of which he called Reads, which he purchased February 9, 1755. Colonel Read embodied the characteristics which have distin- guished the Read family for many centuries — piety, severe integrity original and powerful intellectual- ity, devotion to friends, courtly and fascinating manners. In figure he resembled his English ancestors, being fuller in form than the ma- jority of his American descend- ants. He was a remarkably hand- some man, six feet in height, with a ruddy complexion and dark, ex- pressive eyes, and was noted for his physical strength. Adorned by all the Christian virtues and bequeathing to his descendants the traditions of a well ordered life, he was the fitting progenitor of an illustrious line of statesmen, jurists, soldiers, sailors, and di- vines. He was the father of six sons and one daughter, who, by paternal descent, were of English origin, and by maternal ancestry of Welsh blood. Three of the sons afterward were numbered among the founders and fathers of the United States — George Read, the " Signer ;" Commodore Thomas Read and Colonel James Read. There are two portraits of Colonel John Read. One represents him in his youth before he left the old country, and in the striking costume of the reign of Queen Anne. The other depicts him in middle life, in the wig and dress of the time of George II. After a long period of single life his early sorrow was consoled by his marriage with Mary Howell, a charming young Welsh gentlewoman, many Gravestone of Colonel John Read (1688- 1756). in the Presbyterian churchyard at Christiana, Del. 268 Rossi ana. years his junior, who was as energetic and spirited as she was attractive and handsome. She was a descendant of the Howells, of Caerleon, County Monmouth, but her immediate ancestors were seated in the neighborhood of Caerphilly, Glamorganshire. Wales, where she was born in 171 1. and whence, at a tender age. she removed with her parents to Delaware, where her father was a large planter, and her uncle was one of the founders of Newark, his name appearing in the original charter. Twenty-three years younger than her husband. Mrs. Read survived him nearly thirty years. Beautiful in person, loyal and pious in all her acts, she possessed rare quali- ties of mind and heart. Like her husband, she had great powers of char- Reading Table. Silver Candlesticks and Chair of Colonel John Read (1688-1756). acter, and ruled her establishment after his death with a firm yet benignant sway. She died at her seat in Newcastle county, Delaware. September 22, 1784. Mrs. Read's nephew. Colonel Richard Howell, was a distinguished Revolutionary officer, and for eight years Governor of New Jersey. He was the ancestor of Chief Justice Agnew, of Pennsylvania; of Verina Howell, wife of Jefferson Davis, President of the Southern Confederacy, and of Rear Admiral John dimming Howell, of the United States Navy, who distin- guished himself in the War of the Rebellion. Mary, the only daughter of John and Mary (Howell) Read, married Gunning Bedford, Sr.. who was a lieutenant in the war against the French in 1755, and took an active part in the Revolutionary struggle. He was commissioned major on the 20th of March. 1775. and becoming lieutenant- colonel of the Delaware Regiment on the 19th of January, 1776. was after- Read of Delaware. 269 wards wounded at the battle of White Plains while leading his men to the attack. The subjoined cut shows the sword used by Gunning Bedford at White Plains. After being badly wounded in the sword arm he was removed from the field by his men. The sword which had belonged to his father and Sword of Gunning Bedford. grandfather, is a French rapier of the time of Charles I of England. Gunning Bedford was likewise muster-master general, member of the Continental Congress and Governor of Delaware. Governor and Mrs. Bedford (nee Read) left no issue. DESCENDANTS OF COLONEL JOHN READ. The following brief pedigree of the American branch of the Read family is taken from the detailed chart prepared by General Meredith Read in 1893 to which has been added much later material derived from equally reliable sources. The chart in question not only gives many interesting particulars concerning the American branch, but is also complete as to the English Reads, being brought down in detail to the year 1893. It is of too bulky a nature, however, to be reproduced entire in this work: Colonel John Read (b. Jan. 15, 1688; d. June 15, 1756) married (April 16, 1731) Mary Howell (b. 1711; d. Sept. 22, 1784), and had — 1. George. See below. 2. William (b. 1735; d. 1763), formerly of Philadelphia, afterward of Havana, West Indies, where he was assassinated in 1763. He married Elizabeth Chambers and had a daughter Mary, who married, first, Richard Thomas, and, secondly, Jesse Higgins. No children. 3. John, planter, of Cecil county, Maryland (b. 1737; d. 1808), who inherited a plantation of 500 acres and a mansion from his father. He was unmarried. 4. Thomas (b. 1740; d. Oct. 26, 1788) married (Sept. 7, 1779), as second husband, Mary Peale (b. March 8, 1743; d. Feb. 27, 1816). widow of Robert Fields. Xo children. *>• James. See below. 6. Andrew, planter of Cecil county, Maryland, where he died unmarried. He inherited a plantation of 500 acres, a mansion and two mills from his father. 7. Mary (b. 1745; d. 1820) married, in 1769, Colonel Gunning Bed- ford (d. Sept. 30, 1797). No issue. 1. Hon. George Read, the " Signer" (b. Sept. 18, 1733; d. Sept. 21, 1798), married (Jan. 11, 1763) Gertrude Ross ( d. Sept. 2, 1802), daughter of Rev. George Ross and granddaughter of David Ross of Balblair. They had — *■>• John (bapt. Dec. 1, 1763; d. in infancy). Named in honor of his grandfather. Colonel John Read. The fourth son received the same name, and consequently seemed to take the place of his eldest brother. 9- George. See below. 10. William. See below. 11- John. See below. 270 Rossiana. 12. Mary. See belt w. 5. Colonel James Read (b. 1743; d. Dec. 31, 1822) married Susanne Correy, July 9, 1770. They had — 13. James (b. 1783; d. Oct. 29. 1853. unmarried). 14. Susanne. See below. 15. Anna Correy (d. Dec. 3, 1847. unmarried). 16- Other issue who died in infancy. 9. Hon. George Read (2d), of Delaware (b. Aug. 29, 1765; d. Sept. 3, 1836), married Alary Thompson, his first cousin, and daughter of General William Thompson, on Oct. 30. 1780. They had — 1 7. George. See below. 18. William Thompson' (b. Aug. 22, 1792; d. Jan. 27, 1873, without issue). He married Sallie Latimer Thomas. 19. Gunning Bedford (d. 1826, unmarried). 20. Charles d'Happert (b. Sept., 1800; d. 1834, unmarried). 21. John Dickinson (!>. Dec. 1803; <1. 1831. unmarried). 22. Catherine Anne. See below. 23. Mary Gertrude (b. 1805; bapt. July 13. 1806). 10. Hon. William Read, of Philadelphia (b. Oct. 10, 1767; d. Sept. 25, 1846), third son of lion. George Read, the "Signer," and Gertrude Ross, his wife, married (Sept. 22. 1796) Anne McCall (b. May 2, 1773 ; d. July 17, [845 ). and had — 24. H,»n. George Read (b. June 10, 1797; d. Mch., 1889, unmarried). 25. William Archibald (b. Oct. [9, iXoo; d. in 1865, unmarried). 20. John (1). Oct. 10. [802; d. Sept. 19, 1846. without issue). 27. Samuel McCall (b. Jan. 3. 1810; d. Aug. 30. 1S60). Was married, hut died without issue. 28. Mary. See below. 11. Hon. John Read (1>. July 17. 1769; d. July 13, 1854), fourth son (second of the name) of Hon. George Read, the "Signer." and Gertrude Ross, his wife, married (June 25. 1796) Martha Meredith (b. 1773; d. Mch., iSif) I, and had — 29. John Meredith. See below. 30. Edward (b. 1799; d. in infancy). 31. Henry Meredith (b. Oct. 31, 1802; d. Mch. 16, 1828, unmarried). 32. Margaret .Meredith (b. May 6, 1800; d. 1802). 33. Margaret Meredith ( h. April 7. 1806; d. Mch. 13, 1854, unmar- ried). 12. Mary Read (b. Sept., 1770; d. Jan. 12, 1816), only daughter of Hon. George Read, the " Signer," married Matthew Pearce, Esq., and had — 34. Henry Ward (b. 1788; d. in infancy). :l~i. Gunning Bedford (b. 1790; d. s. p.). 30. Henry Ward (b. 1796). 37. William ( d. s. p.). 38. Dr. George Read married Juliana Ward and had four children. who died in infancy. She married, secondly, Ambrose C. Richardson, Esq. 3#. Matthew Carroll. See belozv. 49. David Ross (d. s. p.). 44. Anastatia Gertrude (b. 1792), married (1826) Dr. Allen McLane (d. Jan. 11, 1845.). Descendants of Col. John Read. 271 42. Mary (b. 1794). 43. Emma. 44. Two other children, who died in infancy. 14. Susanne Read (b. Dec. 25, 1776; d. Dec. 3, 1861), daughter of Colonel James Read (5) and Susanne Correy, his wife, married (March 17, 1803) Joachim Frederic Eckard (d. Sept. 14, 1837), and had — 45. James Read. See below. 46. Frederic Simon (b. Aug. 28, 1807; d. 1856), married (June 3, 1845) Elizabeth X. Kelly. 47. Mary Read ( b. Dec. 17 1803; d. Dec. 22, 1823, unmarried). 17. Hon. George Read (3d), eldest son of Hon. George Read, 2d (9), and Mary Thompson, his wife, was born June 4, 1788; d. Nov. 1, 1837. He married (April 19, 1810) Louisa Ridgeley Dorsey, and had — 48. George, See below. 49. William. See below. 50. J. Dorsey, who married Maria Chapman. 51. Marian Murray. See below. 52. Louisa Gertrude, married Captain B. K. Pierce, and died in 1840, without issue. 53. Annie Dorsey. See below. 54. Caroline. See below. 55. Julia Rush, married Major-Gen. Samuel Jones (b. 1820; d. July 31, 1887), and had one daughter, Emily Read, who was unmarried. .16. Emily (unmarried). 22. Catherine Anne Read (b. 1794; d. 1826), daughter of Hon. George Read, 2d (9), and Mary Thompson, his wife, married (June 18, 1812) Dr. Allan McLane (b. 1786; d. Jan. 11, 1845) and had 57. Julia. See below* 58. Samuel ( d. aet. 17). 58a. Allan, who married and had three children. 58b. Mary, who married Thomas Veazey Ward. (See " Ward Family." p. 378.) 58c. George who married Mary Ashmead. 28. Mary Read (b. June 16, 1799; d. July 7, 1875), only daughter of Hon. William Read (10) and Anne McCall, his wife, married (1827) Cole- man Fisher (b. 1793; d. March 4, 1857) and had — 59. Coleman P. (d. unmarried). 60. William Read (b. 1832; living, unmarried, 1893). 61. Elizabeth Rhodes (d. 1877), married Eugene A. Livingston (d. Dec. 22, 1893). 62. Sally West. 63. Mary Read. 29. Hon. John Meredith Read (b. July 21, 1797; d. Nov. 29, 1874), eldest son of Hon. John Read (n) and Martha Meredith, his wife, married, first (March 18, 1828), Priscilla Marshall (b. Dec. 19, 1808; d. April 18, 1841), daughter of Hon. Josiah Marshall; secondly (1855), Amelia Thomson (b. 181 1 ; d. Sept. 14, 1886). By his first wife John Meredith Read had — *The author is indebted to Miss Ross Read Lockwood, of Washington, D. C, a granddaughter of Dr. McLane, for valuable information concerning the' descendants of Dr. Allan McLane and Catherine Anne Read, his wife. (See page 274.) 272 Rossi ana. 64. John Meredith. See below. 65. Emily Marshall (b. Jan. 5. 1829; d. April 20, 1854). married (June 13, [849) William Henry Hyde and had one daughter, Emma (b. Nov. iN. 1N52; d. April 16, 1880, s. p.), who mar- ried lion. George \Y. Wurts. William Henry Hyde married, secondly. Miss Fleming. 66. Mary (1>. [83O; d. [831). 67. Mary (1». [83 1 ; d. May. [833). 68. Priscilla (b. 1833; d. [835). 39. Matthew Carroll Pearce, son of Matthew Pearce and Mary Read (12), daughter of Hon. George Read, the "Signer." married Elizabeth Jeanette Groome. by whom he had — 69. Henry Ward ( d. s. p.). 70. John Groome ( d. s. p. ). 71. Matthew Carroll ( d. s. p.). 72. I li'nry ( Iroome ( d. S. p. I . 73. I'M ward Ward ( d. s. p.). \ Elizabeth [eannette / . , , . . 74. ; . . „ . ■ twins (both d. s. p.). / Anastasia < rertrude \ 75. Mary Wallace, married Dr. Andrew Binney Mitchell. 76. Elizabeth Jeannette. See below. 77. Ellen M. J. (living, unmarried. [893). 45. Rev. James Read Eckard (b. Nov. 22, [805; d. Mch. 12. 1X87), son of Joachim Frederic Eckard and Susanne Read (14), daughter of Colonel James Read (5) and Susanne Correy, his wife, married (May 26, 1833) Margaret Esther Bayard (b. Oct. 18, 1N10; d. Feb. 29, 1N72) and had — 78. James ( h. Feb. 10. [838; d. Sept. 26, 1X41)). 79. Leighton Wilson. See below. 80. Jane Elizabeth (b. August 15, [834; d. [894, unmarried). 81. Anna Maria (b. Feb. 8, [840), married (1881) Dr. Charles L. Crane. 82. Mary Kelly. 83. Anna Read (b. 1N4N). married Dr. Algernon S. Uhler, and had one son, Algernon S., posthumously born. 84. Elizabeth. 85. Two other children, who died in infancy. 48. George Read, 4th (b. Oct. 16, 1812; d. July 22, 1859), son of Hon. George Read. 3d (17), and Louisa Ridgeley Dorsey, his wife, married (Nov. 9, [843) Susan Chapman, and had — 86. George. See below. 87. William Thompson (b. Oct. 7, 1857), married (Jan. 7, 1879) Antonio Sanders. 88. Marian ( b. Feb. 3, 1853), married (Nov. 10, 1880) M. F. Carleton, and had four children — George, who married Emma Anderson; Marian, who married Hamilton Frank; Jessie and Mattie. 89. Five other children who died s. p. -19. William Read (b. April 24, 1S2.3; d. 1884), son of Hon. George Read, 3d (17), and Louisa Ridgeley Dorsey, his wife, married M. E. Beale. and had — 90. George, married Alice Dickson. Descendants of Col. John Read. 273 91. William Thompson. 92. Emily Truxtun, married General M. C. Goodrell and had two children Truxtun* and Marie. 0:J. .Mary Anna, married J. Bates and had three children. 04. Gertrude Parker, who married Paul Randolph. 05. Blair Beale. 96. Edith Ross, who married E. K. Brodhead and had three children. 51. Marian Murray Read (b. Feb.. 1811; d. 1857;, daughter of Hon. George Read, 3d (I/), and Louisa Ridgeley Horsey, his wife, married Gen- eral James C, Martin, and had — 07. William Bruce, who married Elizabeth Stark, and had five children — Elizabeth, James, Lida, Marianne and George Read. 08. James, who married Annie Davis, and had two daughters — Esther and Annie. Esther married Frank MetZ, and has two children, 00. Annie II. Martin (lives in Ashevillej. KM). Marian, who married Samuel Tennent, and had (1893) one daughter — Annie Martin. 58. Annie Dorsey Read (b. 1818), daughter of Hon. George Read, 3d (17), and Louisa Ridgeley Horsey, his wife, married Captain Isaac S. Keith Reeves, and had — 101. Marian Calhoun Legare (b. 1054). 102. Annie Horsey. See below. 103. Caroline Emily. See below. 104. I. S. Keith, who married Henrietta Young, and had — Marian, who married Dr. Sidney Scott, and has two children; I. S. Keith, who married Margaret Hoblitzell, and had two children; Joan, who married Dr. Frank Duffy; Joseph, unmarried. 54. Caroline Read (b. [820; d. Sept. 26, 1884)) daughter of Hon. George Read, 3d (17), and Louisa Ridgeley Dorsey, his wife, married (March 31, [840) Major-General William H. French (b. Jan. 13, 1815; d. May 20, 1881), and had — 105. Frank Sands (b. 1841 ; d. Sept. 4, [865, unmarried). 100. William (b. July 17, 1844), who married (1879) Emily Ott, and had twelve children. 107. Halverson (d. unmarried). ♦Truxtun Goodrell, Esq., of Cherokee, Iowa, a descendant of lion. George Read, the Signer, writes as follows to the compiler, under date of September, 1908: My maternal grandfather was William Read, son of George Read, 3d. lie graduated from West Point, and was a first lieutenant, i . S. A., in the Mexican war; married Mary Eliza Beale, daughter of George Beale, paymaster I '. S. N. (who received a medal from Congress for gallantry in action), and In- wife, Emily Truxtun, daughter of Commodore 'I 1 Truxtun, who received a vote of thanks from Congress and a ( ongressional medal for his victory over the French fleet in 1800. His mother was Kathciinc Von llrond. William Read had the following children: 1. George Beale Read, who married Alice Dickson and had two children — George Beale Read, Jr., and Alii' Read. U. Emily Truxtun Read, my mother, who married Brigadier-General Mancil (lav Goodrell. His father was Hon. Stewart Goodrell, of Iowa, whose father was Rev. George Goodrell, and his grandfather was George Good- rell, a captain of artillery under General Washington. ;$. William Thompson Read. 4. Gertrude Parker Read, who married Paul Randolph. K. F. P. Pdair Read. <>. Edith Ross Read, who married Elher Howe lirodhead, whose children are: Beale, Truxtun and Elber Howe Brodhead. Mrs. Brodhead lives in Parksburgh, Pa. All the rest of William Read's children make their homes in Washington, D. C, and his grandchildren all live there except myself. 274 Rossiana. 108. George Ross (b. July 8, 1857), who married (March 26, 1885) Elizabeth H. Findlay, and had one son — Findlay French. 109. Annie Read (b. May 23, 1853), married (May 24, 1875) Captain John L. Clem (b. 1853), U. S. A., and had one son, John L., who married Elizabeth Benton. 110. Rosalie (b. June 4, 1861), married Lieutenant John Conklin. U. S. A., and had one son — John. 57. Julia McLane (b. Feb. 21, 1818; d. Nov. 21, 1880), daughter of Catherine Anne Read (22) and Dr. Allan McLane, married (Oct. 20, 1840) Dr. John Alexander Lockwood (b. 1812), and had — 111. John Alexander Lockwood (b. Oct. 30, 1856). 112. Mary Angela (b. Sept. 14, 1841 ; unmarried, 1893). 113. Katharine Read (b. Oct. 1, 1843; unmarried, 1893). 114. Edith. See below. 115. Sally Read (b. Oct. 3, 1849; d. Aug. 10, 1850). 116. Florence. 'See below. 117. Ross Read (b. Sept. 22, 1859). 64. General John Meredith Read (b. Feb. 21, 1837; d. Dec. 27, 1896), son of Hon. John Meredith Read (29) and Priscilla Marshall, his wife, married (April 7, 1859) Delphine Marie, daughter of Harmon Pumpelly, and had — 118. Harmon Pumpelly (b. July 13, i860), married (Aug. 24, 1889) Catherine Marguerite de Carron d'Allondans (b. Aug. 5, 1866). No children. 119. John Meredith (b. Jan. 27, 1869), married Countess Alix de Foras, and has one son, John Meredith Read. 120. Emily Meredith (b. Jan. 6, 1863), married, first (Aug. 21, 1884) Hon. Francis Aquila Stout (d. July 18, 1892), and, secondly, Edwards Spencer, Esq. No children. 121. Marie Delphine Meredith (b. May 9, 1873), married Count Max de Foras, and has three children — Countess Huguette, Countess Delphine and Count Joseph. 76. Elizabeth Jeaxxette Pearce, daughter of Matthew Carroll Pearce (39) and Elizabeth Jeannette Groome, his wife, married Clinton McCullough, Esq., and had — 122. Clinton (b. Dec. 8, 1876). 123. Matthew Pearce (b. Oct. 13, 1878). 124. Hiram (b. Sept. 8, 1880). 125. Groome (b. Dec. 10, 1882). 79. Rev. Leighton Wilson Eckard (b. Sept. 23, 1845), second son of Rev. James Read Eckard (45) and Margaret Esther Bayard, his wife, married (June 3, 1869) Elizabeth Abbot Longstreth, and had — 126. James Mcintosh Longstreth (b. May 23, 1870). 127. Bayard Gelston (b. Dec. 25, 1878). 128. Esther Longstreth (b. Aug. 27, 1872), married (1894) Reeder. 129. Helen Nevins (b. Feb. 17, 1876). 130. Jane Louise (b. June 26, 1882). 86. George Read, 5th (b. Feb. 9, 1847), son of George Read, 4th (48), and Susan Chapman, his wife, married (April 15, 1878) Susan E. Salmons, and had — 131. George (d. in infancy). Descendants of Col. John Read. 275 132. Cleveland (b. July 4, 1884). 133. Alice (b. Feb. 15, 1880). 133 Vz. Gertrude. 102. Annie Dorsey Reeves, daughter of Captain Isaac S. K. Reeves and Annie Dorsey Read (53), his wife, married Hon. John H. Rodney, and had — 134. Georges Brydges, who married Nesfield Cotchette and had a son, George Brydges. 135. Annie Read, who married Frank de H. Janvier and had two children — Frank Darrough and Margaret. 136. Keith Reeves, who married Matilda Walton and had a daughter, Virginia. 137. John H., Jr. (unmarried). 138. Sarah Duval, who married Captain A. V. Faulkner, U. S. A., and had a daughter, Annie Dorsey. 139. Dorsey (unmarried). 140. James, who married Louise Everett and had a daughter, Louise. 140a. Richard Seymour (unmarried). 103. Caroline E. Reeves, daughter of Captain Isaac S. K. Reeves and Annie Dorsey Read (53), his wife, married William S. Potter, and had — 141. Carolyn Reeves, who married Rev. Wyllys Rede and had two sons and three daughters, George Ross, Kenneth, Emily, Carolyn Wyllys, Marion. 142. Dorsey Read, who married May Wheat and had — May, William S. and Florence Allen (d. inf.). 143. Marian Legare. 144. Annie Dorsey. who married Frank J. Taylor and had — Anna Margaret, Carolyn Reeves and Frank J. 145. William Walk, who married Mabel Dunham and had five children. 146. Emily Read, who married William F. Alexander and had two sons — Richard A. and William Fontaine. 147. Julia Ross (unmarried). 147a. Nathaniel (unmarried). 147b. Knight (unmarried). 114. Edith Lockwood (b. Aug. 29, 1845), daughter of Dr. John Alexander Lockwood and Julia McLane (57), his wife, married (May 16, 1871) Edward William Sturdy (b. Sept. 18, 1845). and had — 148. Edward William (b. Mch. 3, 1872; d. Aug. 9, 1872). 149. Henry Francis (b. Nov. 17. 1884). 150. Julia McLane. See below. 151. Edith Rhoda (b. Nov. 10, 1875). 116. Florence Lockwood (b. April 26, 1853), daughter of Dr. John Alex- ander Lockwood and Julia McLane (57), his wife, married (Feb. 17, 1878) Captain Charles Alfred Booth (b. 1841), U. S. A., and had — 152. William Chatfield (b. Jan. 12, 1879). 153. Mary Louise (b. July 24, 1880). 150. Julia McLane Sturdy (b. Jan. 29, 1873), daughter of Edward Wil- liam Sturdy and Edith Lockwood (114), his wife, married Hardee Cham- bliss and had — 154. Joseph Hardee. 155. John Alexander Lockwood. 156. Hardee. READ OF DELAWARE. The following account of the American Read family, descendants of Colonel John Read, is in the main derived from the " History of Dela- ware," and was written by General Meredith Read, but the author and com- piler has added much interesting material to the original account: GEORGE READ, THE " SIGNER." George Read was, in a peculiar sense, the father of the State of Delaware, for he was the author of her first Constitution in 1776, and of the first edition of her laws. He figured in her Assembly no less than twelve years, was Vice-President of the State, and at one time her acting chief magistrate, He penned the address from Delaware to the King, which Lord Shelbourne said so impressed George III. that he read it over twice. lie is the most conspicuous figure in the Delaware record, for Thomas McKean and John Dickinson were more closely allied to Pennsylvania than to Delaware; and while Caesar I\odne\ was prominent in the time of the Declaration, and afterwards as President of Delaware, his premature death in 1783 cut short his career. In person. Read was tall, slight, graceful, with a finely-shaped head, strong, hut refined features, and dark-brown, lustrous eyes. His manners were dignified, and he could not tolerate the -lightest familiarity, hut he was most courteous, and at times captivating; and he dressed with the most scrupulous care and elegance. lie was one of the two statesmen, and the only Southern statesman, who signed ^SO.^&tfJ) 8£3iUt departure from perfect tranquility of manner. After the battle ^\ (iermintown he returned to his office as Paymaster of the Navy. On February uth. 177S. he was directed by the Naval Com mittee of Congress to remove his books and papers from Bordentown to Baltimore. In 1770 he was made Lieutenant-Colonel Commandant of a Regiment of Philadelphia City Militia. Me then. 1 think, resigned his office as Paymaster of the Navy. For a while he and Colonel Jonathan Bayard Smith were in command of a body of troops near the Robin Mood tavern on the Ridge Road, four miles from Philadelphia. I know not the exaei lime of this, but 1 think it was in the summer of 177c). In 1770 the Continental Congress appointed Colonel Read, together with John Wharton and William Winder (father of the late General William Winder of Baltimore), as Commissioners of the Navy Board, Messrs. Wharton and Winder declined the appointment and Congress passed a resolution authorizing Col. Read to perform the duties of all three. Cooper. in his Naval History, says: "in October, 1779 — a Board of Admiralty was established consisting of three Commissioners who were not: in Congress and two that were. Of this Hoard any three were competent to act. In January, 17S1. James Read (misspelled Reed) was appointed by special resolution to manage the affairs of the Navy Board in the Middle Department."* Subsequently a different arrangement was made. The Superintendent of Finance, Mr. Morris, was directed by Congress to exercise the powers and perform the duties of Agent of Marine. Col. Read was appointed Secretary in the department thus reorganized. Joseph Pennell was then Paymaster. Col. Read continued as Secretary in the department of the Agent of Marine until the close of the war. As was before noticed he served again as Paymaster of the Navy from July, 17S3, to September 14th, 1784. This was •From memoranda of conversation with Col. Read made by Mr. J. R. Eckard, in 1821, I infer that lie acted as Commissioner of the Navy Board from 1779. 290 Rossiana. by the persuasion of .Air. Morris who needed the assistance of one who combined so much pure integrity with extensive knowledge, and accurate habits of business. When the war was entirely finished, and its naval accounts settled, Col. Read was appointed Inspector of Flour for the City and County of Philadelphia. He held this office from 1785 until 1803. Subsequently to this he again engaged in mercantile operations, chiefly as an importer of teas and other Chinese goods from Canton. After some years he retired from all mercantile business. In 1783 Col. Read was appointed by the Executive Council of Pennsyl- vania as one of four Commissioners to settle the claims of Connecticut emigrants to large tracts of land near Wilkesbarre. In 1793 he was elected a Director of the City Library Company, and at a later time a Director of the Bank of North America. Both these offices he held until his death. He also was a Director, and, for a time, President, of the Mutual Assurance Company against Fire. Also a Director of the Insurance Company of North America, in which office I think he continued until death. For several years he was a member of the Select Council of the City of Philadelphia and would have been continued as such hut he declined re-election. During the War of 1812 he was appointed by the Select Council one of a Committee to provide for the defence of the river Delaware. In 1703. when the yellow fever visited Philadelphia so terribly. Col. Read sent away his children, but remained himself with Mrs. Read to perforin whatever duties might be required at such a time of distress. At last he was attacked by the disease. When Mrs. Read perceived that he was ill she went to a stable belonging to their house where they kept a horse and chair. She harnessed the horse to the chair herself, I think, the prevalence of the pestilence making it difficult to get aid. With her assistance Col. Read got in the chair. Having fastened the windows and doors she drove into tin- country, not knowing where to go. They stopped at several farm houses before they found a family willing to receive them. He finally reo 'vered. It was about 1772 that he married Susan Correy of Philadelphia; perhaps the marriage took place a year or two earlier. She died about the year 1812. Their children were: Maria, who died aged about twenty-five; John, who died as a boy. Two others who died in infancy. I know nothing about them. Susan, who married J. F. Eckard, from St. Thomas, in the 1 i.mish West Indies, and who was, for some time, Danish Consul for the Middle States. She died at the age of 85 in 1861. James, who died in 1853, aged 70. Anna Correy. who died in 1847, aged about 55. All of these were unmarried except Mrs. Eckard. Col. Read was for many years a communicant in the First Presbyterian Church of Philadelphia. He died in December, 1822, with a calm and con- fident hope in his Saviour. When lying on his death bed he was visited by his pastor, the late eminently learned Dr. James P. Wilson. Sitting down beside him, Dr. Wilson remarked that he had not come to give instruc- tion, or to administer encouragement, but rather for the purpose of receiving George Read (>d). 291 both, by seeing how a Christian could gain the victory over death. At his funeral Dr. Wilson remarked that he believed that Col. Read had sins and defects because he was human and no man on earth is free from them, but, he added that this was his only ground for making the assertion, and that, during his long intercourse with him as his pastor he had never known of any word or action on the part of the deceased which was inconsistent with his profession as a Christian. Notwithstanding the limited advantages for education in the part of Maryland where he passed his earlier years, Col. Read was a man of superior information. His reading in English literature was extensive. By means of translations he had a very respectable knowledge of classical literature. In regard to poetry his taste was refined and elevated. His picture by Otis represents him in an attitude selected by his family as peculiarly characteristic. His spectacles are in his hand and a book lying open before him. He is supposed to be on the point of telling the family circle something instructive, or interesting, about which he has just read. The handwriting of Col. Read was uncommonly good. His account books and business papers were remarkably well and neatly kept. He was six feet in height, well formed and athletic. His manners were those of a gentleman of the old school. The amiability and gentleness of his character were visible in his countenance and constant deportment. In politics he was a decided old-fashioned Federalist. Confidence in and admiration for George Washington were like a master passion in his heart. Indeed, his own character was formed on the same general model as that of Washington, although, of course, decidedly inferior in ability and mental power to his great commander. There was a close resemblance between them in unambitious modesty, control of temper, disinterested patriotism, pure integrity, accuracy in business and brave energy in action. Having faithfully served his God and his country he died, as he had lived, without fear and without reproach. GEORGE READ (2d). Hon. George Read (2d), of Delaware, eldest surviving son of George Read, the signer, was born at New Castle the 17th of August, 1765, at the Read mansion. He married, on the 30th of October, 1786, Mary Thompson, daughter of General William Thompson, a distinguished Revolutionary officer, at the latter's country seat, near Carlisle. Pennsylvania. Mrs. Thomp- son was Catharine Ross, the sister of Gertrude Ross, wife of George Read, the signer. George Read (2d) was an eminent jurist, and for nearly thirty years was United States district attorney of Delaware. He was the owner of large plantations in Mississippi. He died at the Read mansion on the 3d September, 1836, and was buried at Emmanuel Church. He was a handsome, dark-haired man, of rich complexion and courtly manners. His portrait was painted by Wortmuller. He restored the Read mansion, and enter- tained Lafayette there most sumptuously on the latter's second visit to America. 292 Ro. s'siana. GEORGE READ (3d). Hon. George Read (3d), of Delaware, son of George Read (2d), of Delaware, was born in the Read mansion, at Xew Castle. Delaware. June 4. 1788. and married, the 19th of April. 1810. Lonisa Ridgeley Dorsey, whose, family resided near Baltimore. Maryland, her father being Dr. Nathan Dorsey, a surgeon in the Revolntionary navy, who afterwards became an eminent physician in Philadelphia. After graduating at Princeton with honors, in 1806. he studied law with his father, and was called to the bar in Delaware. Distinguished as a lawyer, he was still more eminent as an Residence of George Read 2d (1765-1836) at Newcastle, Del. advocate and remarkable for his conversational powers, fine taste and extensive and varied literary attainments. Frank, generous, benevolent, gentle and unassuming in manner, it was said of him that the general regard that his many admirable qualities attracted was only surpassed by the warm attachment, much more than any man we have known, which he elicited from his im mediate friends. His father had occupied for many years the post of United States district attorney, and he also filled that office with ability during the administrations of three of our Presidents. George Read (3d) died at the family mansion, in New Castle, on the 1st of November. 1837. and on the eve of his nomination to the United States Senate. He had constantly refused the highest State and national offices. George Read (4th). 293 GEORGE READ (4th). George Read 1 (4th), son of George Read (3d), of Delaware, was born at New Castle, 16th Oct., 1812; married, in 1844, Susan Chapman, of Virginia, and died in August. 1859, forty-seven years of age at Rossmere, near Columbia, Arkansas. He showed early aptitude for business, and was trained in the counting house of an eminent firm in Baltimore. In company with his grandfather, George Read (2d), he purchased a cotton plantation of several thousand acres in Chicot County, Arkansas, on the borders of Louisiana, which grew under his masterly touch into one of the great repre- sentative plantations of the South. He took an active part in the organiza- tion of a parish in his neighborhood, where his kindness and generosity made him the object of warm affection. He died in the communion of the Episcopal Church, of which he was a prominent member, like all of his family. He was characterized by sound judgment, foresight and energy. He was most fastidiously refined, a man of medium height, of handsome face and carriage. GEORGE READ (5th). George Read (5th), of Arkansas, eldest son of George Read (4th), of Delaware, was born at Grand Gulf, Mississippi, February, 1847. and suc- ceeded by will to the great plantation of Ro'ssmere, which was much damaged by the Union army during the War of the Rebellion. He married Susan Salmon, of Lynchburg, Virginia. He is also a successful cotton-planter, and a gentleman of great refinement and varied culture. His eldest son, George Read (6th), of Rossmere. died in infancy. Two children survive — Cleveland Read, born 4th July, 1884, and Alice Read, born 15th of February, 1880. George Read (5th), of Rossmere, had seven brothers and sisters; all died without issue during the lifetime of their father, except one sister and Wil- liam Thompson Read, born at Rossmere, 7th October, 1857, married 7th January. 1879, Jono Saunders, cf Chicot County, and has William Thompson Read, born at Rossmere 2d of April. 1880. and Earl Read, born 15th July, 1883. Mr. W. T. Read is a large and successful planter. The only surviving sister of George Read (Sth) and William Thompson Read is Marion Read, who was born at Rossmere on the 3d of February, 1853; married. 10th November, 1880, F. M. Carlton, Esq., of King and Queen County, Virginia, and has George Read Carlton, born 9th July, 1883, and Marian Read Carlton, born August 1. 1884. William Thompson Read, son of George Read (2d), of Delaware, was born in the Read mansion, at New Castle, on the 22d of August. 1792, and 1 In a letter to the compiler, Alice Read, granddaughter of George Read (4th), says: My Grandfather CGeorge Read) married the widow Taliaferro, who was a Miss Susan Chapman, of Orange Court House, Virginia. They had three children (who lived to be more than infants) — George (my father), Marian, who married Millard Fillmore Carlton, and William Thompson, who married Antonio Saunders. My father had four children — George, who died in infancy; Alice, Cleveland and Gertrude, all unmarried. Aunt Marian (Mrs. Carlton) had five children — George, who married a Miss Emma Anderson; Marian, who married a Mr. Hamilton Frank (dead), and Jessie and Mattie. unmarried. Uncle Will (William Thompson Read), had four children — William, who married a Miss Cook; Erie, unmarried; Gladvs, who married Tohn Breckenridge, and George (dead). My mother's name was Sue Salmons, of Lynchburg, Virginia. 294 Rossiana. was baptized the 16th of September following at Emmanuel Church. He graduated at Princeton in 1816, studied law with his father and was called to the bar in Delaware. He resided at Washington for some years, and was at the head of one of the government departments, and became later secretary of the legation of the United States to Buenos Ayres, and a Senator of Delaware. He was also Grand Master of Masons of Delaware, and one of the founders of the Historical Society of Delaware. He was a man of great culture, an ardent churchman, and highly respected in all relations through life. He was the author of a life of his grandfather, George Read, the signer. He died in his mansion at New Castle on the 27th of January, 1873, having married Sally Latimer Thomas, who pre-deceased him. He left no issue. His brothers, Gunning Bedford Read and Charles Henry Read, both lawyers of great promise, died unmarried. His sister, Catherine Anne Read, who was born in 1794, in the Read mansion at New Castle, and died there in 1826, married, on the 18th of June, 1812, Dr. Allen McLane. of Wilmington, son of Colonel .Mien McLane. of the Revolutionary army, and brother of the Hon. Lewis McLane. Secretary of State of the United States, and uncle of the Hon. Robert M. McLane, United States Minister to France. William Read, first lieutenant of the United States army, born the 24th of April. 1823. at the family mansion. Xew Castle. Delaware, was baptized on the 4th of April. 1824. at Emmanuel Church. Xew Castle. He was the son of the Hon. George Read (3d), of Delaware, and Louisa Ridgeley Dorsey, his wife. He was appointed from Delaware a cadet at West Point the est of July. 1840: promoted to be second brevet lieutenant in the Sixth Infantry, served with distinction in the war with Mexico; was mack- second lieutenant of the Fifth Infantry in 1846, and first, lieutenant of the same regiment in 1847; resigned 21st of July, 1850. He was Professor of Natural and Experi- mental Philosophy in the Kentucky Military Institute from 1851 to 1853: assistant examiner of patents at Washington from 1855 to 1861. and a planter in Montgomery County. Maryland, from 1861 until his death in 1884. He married M. E. Beale. the granddaughter of Commodore Truxton, of the United States navy. J. Dorsey Read, a graduate of the Naval Academy at Annapolis, was a lieutenant in the United States navy. He died in 1858. Married Maria Chapman, of Virginia, but left no descendants. He was the third son of the Hon. George Read (3d), of Delaware, and Louisa Ridgeley Dorsey, his wife. Marian Murray Read, born at the Read mansion. New Castle, Delaware, was baptized on the 6th of May, 181 1. aged three months, at Emmanuel Church. New Castle; was the eldest daughter of the Hon. George Read (3d), of Delaware, and Louisa Ridgeley Dorsey. his wife. She married James G. Martin. Esq.. of North Carolina, a graduate of West Point, who attained the rank of major in the United States army, and became a major-general in the Confederate army. James G. Martin, eldest son of James G. Martin, of North Carolina, wa9 counselor-at-law, Asheville, North Carolina. He married Annie Davis. Elizabeth Stark Murray Martin was the eldest daughter of James G. Martin, of North Carolina. She married William Bruce, Esq., counselor-at- law, Norfolk, Virginia. George Read (5th). 295 Annie Hollingsworth Martin was the second daughter of James G. Martin, of North Carolina. She died unmarried. Marian Martin, the youngest daughter of James G. Martin, Esq., of North Carolina, was married to Samuel Tennent, Esq., planter, Asheville, North Carolina. Louise Gertrude Read, horn at the family mansion, New Castle, Delaware, second daughter of Hon. George Read (3d), and Louisa Ridgeley Dorsey, Ids wife, was married to Colonel B. K. Pierce, of the Lhuted States army, brother of General Franklin Pierce. President of the United States. He commanded at Governor's Esland at the time of his wife's death, which occurred in 1840. She was buried at Governor's Island, New York, having no issue. Annie Dorsey Read, third daughter of the Hon. George Read (3d), and Louisa Ridgeley Dorsey, bis wife, born at the family mansion, New Castle, Delaware, was baptized on the 2d of August, 181S, then aged three weeks, at Emmanuel Church. New Castle. She married Isaac S. K. Reeves, of the United States army, who was born in New York. He was appointed a cadet from New York to West Point in 1X3 r, graduated in 1835, served with distinction in the Florida War, and attained the rank of major. He died prior to the Rebellion. Mrs. Reeves resided in one of the old Read mansions at New Castle, Delaware, and had the following children: Keith Reeves, only son, an engineer in the United States navy, who married Henri- etta Young and has four children — Keith, Marian. Joan and Joseph; Marian Legare Reeves, a well-known authoress, who wrote under the nam de plume of Fadette, the following novels: " Ingemisco," "Randolph Honour " and " Wearie Thome," and in connection with her aunt, Miss Emily Read, of New Castle, published " Old Martin Boscawen's Jest." Annie Dorsey Reeves married the Hon. John H. Rodney, of New Castle, a great grandnephew of the Hon. Caesar Rodney, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and has six sons and two daughters. Caroline E. Reeves married Wm. S. Potter, Esq., a planter in Cecil County, Maryland, and has four sons and live daughters. Caroline married Rev. W. Rede; Dorsey Read married May Wheat: William married Mabel Dunham; Marian Legare; Emily Read married Wm. Fontaine Alexander (of the Geo. Washington family); Annie Dorse) married Francis Taylor; Julia Ross unmarried; Nathaniel and Knight both unmarried. Caroline Read, fourth daughter of Hon. George Read (3d), of Delaware, and Louisa Ridgeley Dorsey, his wife, born at the family mansion, New Castle, Delaware, was baptized on the 22(1 of July, 1820, at Emmanuel Church, New Castle. She married, on the 31st of March, 1840, Major-General William H. French, of the United States army, a graduate of West Point in 1837, a distinguished officer of the United States army during the Rebellion. He was born on the 3d of January, 181 5, at Baltimore, Maryland. He retired in July, 1880, as Colonel of the Fourth Artillery, with rank of major-general. He died on the 20th of May, i88r, at Washington. His wife. Caroline Read, died on the 26th of September, 1884, at Blue Ridge Summit. Franklin County, Pennsylvania. They left the following issue : Lieutenant-Colonel Frank Sands French, born in 184 1, at Houlton, Maine, entered the United States army, 1861. as second-lieutenant of artillery, 296 Rossiana. and was made captain and brevet lieutenant-colonel for gallant and meritori- ous conduct during the war ; died 4th September, 1865, at New Castle, Delaware, of wounds received at the battle of Antietam; unmarried. William Henry French of the United States army, born 17th July, 1844. at Newport, Rhode Island, while his father was stationed at Fort Adams. He married Emily Ott in 1879, and has three daughters. Lieutenant Frederick Halverson French, a graduate of West Point in 1877, second lieutenant United States army same year; first lieutenant i860; retired January, 1885 ; unmarried. Lieutenant George Ross French, United States navy, born 8th July, 1857, at Fort McHenry, Baltimore, Maryland, while his father was stationed there; a graduate of the Academy, Annapolis, in 1880; midshipman of the United States navy in 1882; ensign, June. 1884; married, in Baltimore, 26th of March, 1885, Elizabeth Hollingsworth. daughter of Charles Findlay, Esq. Mrs. French was born the 17th of November, 1856. They have one son. Findlay French. Annie Read French, born the 24th of May, 1853. at Tampa, Hillsborough County, Fla.. while her father was stationed there; married, the 24th of May, 1X75. to Captain John L. Clem, of the United States army. He was born at Newark, Licking County, Ohio, in 1853, entered the United States army in 1862 as a drummer-boy, and distinguished himself in the battles of Chickamauga and Shiloh, and became famous as the "Drummer-boy of Chickamauga," and for his distinguished services and gallantry was appointed, when only ten years of age, a sergeant in the United States army; became second lieutenant in 1870. first lieutenant in 1N74, and captain and assistant quartermaster in [882. They have one son, John Clem. Rosalie French, born 4th June, 1861, at New Castle. Delaware, married Lieutenant J. Conklin, of the l'nited States army. Julia Rush Read, fifth daughter of the Hon. George Read (3d), of Dela- ware and Louisa Ridgely Dorsey, his wife, born at the family mansion, New Castle, Delaware, and married General Samuel Jones of Virginia, who graduated at West Point, and attained the rank of captain in the United States army. He became a major-general in the Confederate army, and commanded during the Rebellion the Departments of South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Florida. They have one child, Emily Read Jones, who is unmarried. Emily Read, sixth daughter of the Hon. George Read (3d), of Delaware and Louisa Ridgely Dorsey. his wife, was born at the family mansion. New Castle, Delaware, where she resided for many years. She has contributed to the Encyclopaedia Britannica, and has produced anonymously ** Life in New Sweden Two Hundred Years Ago." She is also the authoress, in conjunction with her late niece. Miss Marian Reeves, of " Old Martin Bos- cawen's Jest," and " Pilot Fortune." Lieutenant John Alexander Lockwood, of the United States army, Pro- fessor of Military Tactics at the University of Michigan, is the son of Dr. John Alexander Lockwood, born at Dover, Delaware, in 1812. by his wife, Julia Read McLane, born 21st of February, 1818, at Wilmington, Delaware, married the 20th of October, 1840, died the 21st of November, 1880, at Wash- ington, D. C. PAINTED BY THOMAS Hon. William Read. 297 Lieutenant Lockwood was born on the 30th of October, 1856, at Dresden, Saxony, Germany. He is the grandson of Dr. Allen McLane and his wife, Catharine Anne Read, and fifth in descent from George Read, of Delaware, the signer. His sister. Florence Lockwood, born at Florence, Italy, the 26th of April, 1853, married, the 17th of February, 1878, Captain Charles Alfred Booth, of the United States army. HON. WILLIAM READ. William Read, of Philadelphia, consul-general of the Kingdom of Naples, was the second son of George Read, the signer, of Delaware. He was born in the Read mansion, Xew Castle, Delaware, October 10, 1767, and died in his own mansion, at Philadelphia, September 25, 1846. He was married, at Christ Church, Philadelphia, on the 22d of September, 1796, by Bishop White, to Anne McCall, daughter of Archibald McCall and Judith Kemble, his wife. Mrs. Read was born on the 2d of May, 1772. and died the 17th of July, 1845. Air. William Read, who removed to Philadelphia at an early age, was. for many years, consul-general of the Kingdom of Naples, and represented several other foreign powers. He was a brother of George Read {2d), of Xew Castle, and of the Hon. John Read, of Philadelphia. Fie resided in an ancient and spacious mansion on Second street, then the most fashionable part of Philadelphia. His eldest son, George Read, of Pennsylvania, was born in Philadelphia, on the 10th of June, 1797. in the large mansion in Second street, three doors above Spruce, on the west side. In accordance with the ancient family usage, he was taken to Xew Castle, Delaware, and christened on the 29th of October, 1797, in Emmanuel Church, of which his great-grandfather, the Rev. George Ross, was the first rector in 1703. Mr. Read resided nearly forty years in Spain, first going thither on the 10th of October, 1817. He was for a long time United States consul in that Kingdom. He died some years ago, and in his ninety-second year was extremely active in his habits, and his anecdotes were at that time as interesting and his wit as vivacious as in his earlier years. He wa*S unmarried. His three brothers, — William Archibald Read, a planter near Xew Orleans; John Read, a prominent lawyer of Philadelphia; and Samuel McCall Read, also a planter near Xew Orleans, Louisiana — died without issue. His only sister, Mary Read, born the 16th of June, 1799, died the 17th of July, 1875; married, in 1827, Coleman Fisher, of Philadelphia, son of Samuel and grandson of William Fisher. Mr. Fisher was born in Philadel- phia in 1793, and died there the 4th of March, 1857. Their children are the present William Read Fisher, Esq., of Philadelphia ; Elizabeth Rhodes Fisher, who married Eugene A. Livingston, Esq., of Livingston Manor. Xew York, and died in 1877; Sally West Fisher and Mary Read Fisher. The eldest son, Coleman P. Fisher, a distinguished engineer, died some years ago unmarried. Mrs. Livingston left one son and two daughters. HON. JOHN READ. The Hon. John Read, of Pennsylvania, an eminent lawyer, financier and philanthropist, and one of the leaders of the Federal party, was the fourth son of George Read, of Delaware, a signer of the Declaration of Indepen- 298 Rossiana. dence, and a framer and signer of the Constitution of the United States. The eldest son, John, named in honor of his grandfather, had died in infancy, and the fourth son received the same name, and consequently seemed to take the place of his elder brother. His mother, Gertrude Ross, was the daughter of the Rev. George Ross, Rector of Emmanuel Church, New Castle, a grad- uate of the University of Edinburgh in 1700, and of the Divinity School in 1702, who having been ordained by the Bishop of London, became one of the founders of the Church of England in America. Air. Ross was born in 1670. and died in 1754. His daughter. Mrs. Read, was beautiful in person, her manners were refined and gracious, and her piety was shown in a con- stant succession of charitable deeds. As her pious father expressed it in his autobiography, the family escutcheon was without spot or stain. Her grand- father, David Ross, Esquire, of Balblair, was a descendant, through the house of Balmachy, of the ancient family of the Karls of Ross. Her eldest brother, John Ross, had preceded her husband as attorney-general; a younger brother, George Ross, was a distinguished judge and a signer of the Declara- tion of Independence, while the patriotic sermons of another brother, the Rev. /Eneas Ross (an eloquent divine of the Church of England, who had received his degrees at Oxford), had tired the heart of the colonies at the opening of the Revolution. John Read was horn in the Read mansion. Xew Castle, Delaware, on the 17th of July, 1769. lie graduated at Princeton in 17N7. studied law with his father, was called to the bar and removed to Philadelphia in 1789, where he married in 17c/), Martha Meredith, eldest daughter of General Samuel Mere- dith, member of the Continental Congress, first Treasurer of the United States, and an intimate friend of General Washington, thus connecting the ancient families of Read and Meredith. George Clymer, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a framer of the Constitution of the United States, was Mrs. Read's uncle. Her mother was the daughter of Dr. Thomas Cadwalader, of the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsyl- vania, and the sister of General John Cadwalader. whose daughter Fanny married Lord Erskine, and Colonel Lambert Cadwalader. Her brother-in- law, General Philemon Dickinson, commanded the Xew Jersey forces at the Millstone ami at the battle of Monmouth, and John Dickinson, author of the "Farmer's Letters," was her cousin. Mrs. Read's grandfather, Reese Meredith, the son of Reese Meredith, Esquire, of the county of Radnor, was horn in Wales in 1705, removed to Philadelphia in 1727, and married the granddaughter of Samuel Carpenter, owner of the " Slate Roof House," the partner of William Penn and one of the executors of his will. Reese Mere- dith sprang from the very ancient Cambrian family of Meredith, to which belong Lord Athlumney, Baron Meredith and the Merediths, Baronets of Greenhills and Carlandstown, County Meath. He was one of the wealthiest men of his day; his town house was in Walnut street below Second; his country seat was on the west bank of the Schuylkill opposite Fairmount. His son, General Meredith, resided in a large mansion on the north side of Chestnut street, two doors above Fifth, opposite Independence Hall. His country seats were Greenhills, Philadelphia County; Otter Hall, near Tren- ton. New Jersey, and Belmont, near the present town of Scranton, Pennsylvania. Hon. John Read. 299 John Read was appointed by President John Adams, in 1797, Agent Gen- eral of the United States under Jay's Treaty. He filled this important office with marked ability also under the administration of President Thomas Jefferson, and until its termination in 1809, and published a valuable volume entitled " British Debts." He was City Solicitor, a member of the Common and Supreme Councils of Philadelphia, and took an active part in the defense of the Delaware during the War of 1812. He was also a member of the > Pennsylvania Legislature, and chairman of the Committee of Seventeen in 7 1816. He was Senator from 1816 to 1S17; was appointed by the legislative body State Director of the Philadelphia Bank, and on the retirement of his wife's uncle, George Clymer, the signer, in 1819, became President of that bank, which office he held until 1841. He was also the president of many other important corporations. An active, wise and liberal churchman, he constantly figured in the national councils of the Episcopal Church, and he was for many years Rector's warden of Christ Church, St. Peter's and St. I James'. He died at Trenton, New Jersey, on the 13th July, 1854, in the eighty-sixth year of his age, and was buried in the Read vault, Christ Church. Philadelphia. Pie was the father of the Hon. John Meredith Read. Chief -~ Justice of Pennsylvania. His humanity and philanthropy were largely manifested during the terrible outbreak of yellow fever in Philadelphia, in 1793, when he contributed liberally from his purse, and exposed his life , throughout the entire course of that epidemic in behalf of his suffering fellow-citizens. Mr. Read had three sons. Chief Justice John Meredith Read, of Penn- sylvania ; Edward Read, who died in infancy, and Henry Meredith Read, M. A., M. D. The latter was born at his father's mansion in Chestnut street, Philadelphia, on the 31st October, 1802; graduated at Princeton in 1820. and at the Medical School of the University of Pennsylvania in 1823. He was ja man of brilliant promise, but died prematurely and unmarried on the 16th bf .March, 1828, in the twenty-sixth year of his age. Mr. Read's daughters were Margaret Meredith, born 6th May, 1800, and died in 1802, and Mar- garet Meredith Read, born 7th April, 1806, and died, unmarried, the 13th \j March, 1854. The latter was a lady of remarkable accomplishments, and a general favorite in society. Mr. Read's children were all taken in infancy rto Xew Castle to be christened at Emmanuel Church, in accordance with ancient family usage. Mr. Read's spacious mansion stood on the south side of Chestnut street, between Seventh and Eighth streets. Philadelphia, surrounded with gardens, wherein tulips bloomed in profusion, running back to his stables which fronted on Sansom street. To this hospitable house resorted all the wealth and fashion of the early part of the century. Mr. Read, like his father and grandfather, was a collector and reader of rare books. His reading was extended and profound, and his memory was remarkably retentive, and always obedient to his call. He related with dramatic force the incidents of his childhood, which was passed among' the most stirring scenes of the Revolution. Mr. Read's miniature by an unknown but admirable artist, represents him at the age of twenty-five. The oil painting by Sully gives an idea of him in 300 Rossiana. his more mature years. Unlike his paternal and maternal family, he was not above the medium height, but he had the refined but strongly defined features of the Reads, and he inherited their courtly and agreeable manners. CHIEF JUSTICE JOHN MEREDITH READ. The Hon. John Meredith Read, LL. D., "a great jurist and a wise states- man," was the son of the Hon. John Read, of Pennsylvania, grandson of the Hon. George Read, of Delaware, and the great-grandson of Col. John Read, of Maryland and Delaware. He was born in the mansion of his grandfather, General Samuel Meredith, to whom his parents were then paying a visit, in Chestnut street, two doors above Fifth street, opposite Independence Hall, on the 2ist of July. 1797: and he died in Philadelphia, on the 29th of Novem- ber. 1S74, in the seventy-eighth year of his age. He graduated at the Uni- versity of Pennsylvania at the age of fifteen, in 1812; was called to the bar in 181S; elected to the Pennsylvania Legislature in 1822, and again in 1823; and afterwards became city solicitor and member of the select council, and drew up the first clear exposition of the finances of Philadelphia. He was appointed United States District Attorney of the Eastern District of Penn- sylvania, in 1837. and held that office eight years. He was also Judge Advo- cate on the Court of Enquiry on Commodore Elliot. Solicitor-General of the Treasury Department, and Attorney-General of Pennsylvania. Although his family were eminent and powerful Federalists, he early became a Democrat and was one of the founders of the Free Soil wing of that party. This militated against him when he was nominated to the Senate in 1845, as Judge of the Supreme Court of the United States ; for the Southern senators opposed his confirmation, and he consequently requested the President to withdraw his name. He was one of the earliest, most ardent and effective upholders of the annexation of Texas, and the building of railways to the Pacific. He powerfully assisted Andrew Jackson in his war against the United States Bank, and yet after its downfall Mr. Nicholas Biddle came to him and begged him to be his counsel. In the celebrated trial of Castner Planway, for treason. Judge Read was engaged with Thaddeus Stevens and Judge Joseph J. Lewis, for the defendant, and made such a masterly argu- ment that Mr. Stevens said he could add nothing, for his colleague's speech had settled the law of treason in this country. This great triumph gave Judge Read an international reputation, and English jurists paid the highest compliments to his genius and learning. He showed his repugnance for slavery in the Democratic Convention held in Pittsburgh in 1849. where he offered a resolution against the extension of slavery, which concluded with these remarkable words: " Esteeming it a violation of States rights to carry it (slavery) beyond State limits, we deny the power of any citizen to extend the area of bondage beyond the present dimension; nor do we consider it a part of the Constitution that slavery should forever travel with the advanc- ing column of our territorial progress." Holding these strong views he naturally became one of the founders of the Republican party, and he delivered at the Chinese Museum, in Philadel- phia, at tbe beginning of the electoral campaign in 1856, his celebrated speech upon the " power of Congress over slavery in the territories." This strucK . rain m($M. rnwss Mwmmwwwmi mniHE, jljlw, CHIEF JUSTICE OF PENNSYLVANIA Son of Hon.John Read of Perm?, grandson of George Read of Delaware. "the Signer,"and great-grandson of Col John Read of Maryland & Delaware. Born opposite Independence Hall in Chestnut Street, Phil-, 21" July; 1797, and.m accordance with ancient usage m his family, christened at Immanuel Church, New Castle, Dela- ware, of which his great-grandfather was the first Rector in 1703. He married 11', Priscilla, daughter of Hon.J.Marsliall of Boston, 20? March 1828, who was bom 19? Dec. 1808. and died IS? April 1841. 2^ in 1855, Amelia, daughter of Edward Thomson Escf, who died J4? Sej .-.aged 75. Chief Justice Read Phil? 2 9 •? of November 1874, in his 78^year, and was buried mule Read Vault, Christ Church, Phil S-, leaving an only son. by his first -wife Read . PAST GRAND MASTER OF THC GRANT LOC Chief Justice John Meredith Read. 301 a keynote which resounded throughout the country, and his discourse formed the text of the oratorical efforts of the Republican party. It was under his lead that the Republican party gained its first victory in Pennsylvania, for he carried that State in the autumn of 1858, as a candidate for Judge of the Supreme Court, by nearly 30,000 majority. This brought him prominently forward as a candidate for the presidency of the United States, and Mr. Lincoln's friends proposed to nominate Judge Read for President, with Mr. Lincoln for Vice-President. This arrangement was destroyed by the defeat of Judge Read's supporters by the friends of the Hon. Simon Cameron, in the Pennsylvania Republican Convention, in February, i860. Nevertheless Judge Read received a number of votes in the Chicago Convention, although he had thrown his influence in favor of his friend, Mr. Lincoln. The decisions of Judge Read run through forty-one volumes of reports. In whatever branch of the law a question arose, he met and disposed of it with a like able grasp and learning. He was familiar with civil and criminal law, and their practice ; with international and municipal laws, with law and equity, with the titles, limitations, and descents of real and personal estates, with wills, legacies, and intestacies; with the Constitution, charters, and statutes' of the United States, the States and all our cities. His opinion was adopted as the basis of the Act of March 3. 1863, authorizing the Presi- dent during the Rebellion to suspend the writ of habeas corpus ; and through- out the country his talents and his influence were constantly enlisted in behalf of the general government, and all his decisions were governed by the ardent and lofty patriotism which characterizes his conduct through life. He re- lieved the American Philosophical Society froni arbitrary taxation by decid- ing that the land in Independence Square, on which its hall stands, was granted by the State forever for public uses; and, as it could not be sold by any form of execution, no taxes could consequently be a lien upon it. His judgment also placed the public buildings of Philadelphia on their present site. Another famous decision was that refusing an injunction to prevent the running of the passenger tramways on Sunday. He could not consent to stop the " poor man's carriage, the passenger car." Many thousand copies of this opinion were printed in the East and West, and it carried public opinion with it wherever it was read. His associate on the Supreme Bench, Judge Williams, in his address to the bar of Philadelphia, said: "Chief Justice Read possessed talents and learning of a very high order, and his personal and official influence were very great. He was a gentleman in every sense of the word ; a gentleman of the old school, of the very highest sense of honor, of great dignity of character, and in social intercourse kind, affable and courteous. He was a true friend, strong and unswerving in his attachments, ready to make any sacrifice for his friends, and when they were in trouble he was untiring in his efforts to serve them. He was a man of the strictest integrity, and despised everything that was low and vile. With him the equity and justice of the case was the law of the case. He was a man of chivalrous courage, persistent purpose, and inflexible will. He did not know what fear is." A partial list of Chief Justice Read's published writings are to be found in Allibone's " Dictionary of Authors." and his merits as a lawyer and a judge were ably and eloquently portrayed by the 3> ) m 9p T ■»" .*.«r* ! Castor, Tankard, Server and Coffee Pot which Belonged to Reese Meredith, and to His Son, General Samuel Meredith. man of his day in the Colonies; was educated at Oxford; gave $5,000 in 1778 to clothe and feed the soldiers at Valley Forge ; was, like most of the promi- nent Philadelphians of his day, a Quaker. Reese Meredith was the first person who introduced General (then Colonel) Washington into good so- ciety in Philadelphia. He had — Samuel Meredith, who married Margaret, daughter of Thomas Cad- walader. Hon. Samuel Meredith was born in Philadelphia, 1741 ; died at Belmont (his country seat), February 10, 1817. He was edu- cated at Dr. Allison's Academy, and became a partner in business with his father and brother-in-law, George Clymer. He enlisted as Major in the Third Battalion of Associators in 1775, and in December, 1776, was made Lieutenant-Colonel, later participating in the battle of Princeton. As Brigadier-General of the Pennsylvania Militia he served at Brandywine and Germantown. Fie resigned in August, 1778, and was subsequently member of Assembly for several years, 1 This pedigree down to the first Reese Meredith was furnished by a relative many years ago to my father. — H. P. R. 330 Rossiana, and member of the Continental Congress from 1786 to 1788. At the organization of the Federal Government Washington appointed him Treasurer of the United States, which office he held for more than 12 years. The first money ever paid into the Treasury was $20,000 loaned by him to the government. He subsequently loaned the Treas ury $140,000. He retired, after 1S01, to his seat called " Belmont," near Pleasant Mount, Wayne County, Pa., where he lived in great state. He owned 75,000 acres of land in Wayne county and 67,000 acres in Lackawanna and Wyoming counties, and George Clymer and himself owned altogether nearly a million acres in Pennsylvania, New York, West Virginia and Kentucky. He had — 1. Martha, who married (1796) Hon. John Read. (See Read Pedigree.) 2. Elizabeth (died, unmarried, November 18, 1826). 3. Anne, wbo married Samuel Dickenson. 4. Thomas (born 1778; died in infancy). 5. Thomas 1 (born, 1779; died at Newton, N. J., March 5, 1855), studied law with John Read and was admitted to the Bar of Philadelphia in 1803; but in 1805 removed to his father's resi- dence, Belmont. He was a Major of the Pennsylvania Militia in the War of 1812. and Prothonotary, Register of Wills, Register of Deeds, etc., for Wayne county, 1821-3. He after- wards lived at " Meredith Cottage," Carbondale Township. 6. Margaret (born, 1781 ; died, unmarried, 1824). 7. Maria (born, 1783; died, 1854). The preceding pedigree is all I have been able to obtain concerning the early Merediths, and was drawn up many years ago by a descendant of Reese Meredith. The two generations preceding the Reese Meredith who came to America are correct. I have had in my possession a document written by his father, Reese Meredith of Landoglen, Radnorshire, Wales, and General J. Meredith Read has verified the preceding generation (the first Reese Meredith). LETTER FROM LORD ATHLUMNEY AND MEREDYTH. I wrote to my distant kinsman. Lord Athlumney and Meredyth, in regard to this pedigree, and received the following reply : 3 Charles street, Berkeley Square \\\, London, June 28, 1907. My Dear Kinsman: For such I trust I may call you. Your father, General Meredith Read, was by name well known to me, and you are quite right in stating that he and my father were con- nected. I can well remember my father speaking of him many times, and he attached great importance to our keeping in touch with our kinsmen across the sea. Up to your father's death I used to hear from him every year, and on my first, and every subsequent, *A seal cut in 1S00, in London, England, on a red carnelian, and used by Thomas Meredith, had a demi lion rampant, chained, and collared or, above an oval in which was cut the letters " T. M." joined. This stone was used by Judge Read and lost. Another seal, cut long before this one, had the arms as well as the crest. Meredith Family. 331 visit to Philadelphia I have always tried to find some trace of the family, but without success. I have at home pictures of several of the Reads — General Meredith Read and a John Read, who was governor of Pennsylvania. On> receipt of your letter I wrote to my friend Burke (editor of Burke's Peerage, etc.), and I enclose his reply. In his private letter to me he says: As far back as the Bishop's father the Meredyth descent has been put to the proof legally and the pedigree has been officially recorded. The Welsh part is, however, mainly traditional, as in the case of most Welsh pedigrees. You might refer your correspondent to Dunn's Visitation of Wales. He mentioned nothing about the origin of the arms for which you asked. I will be seeing him shortly and will make a point of finding out. I am so glad to find that 1 have still some representatives of the family in the States, and only wish I had known it before, as I have been over so many times. Now that the ice has been broken, I trust we shall not lose track again. If you should come over here believe me a warm welcome awaits you, and when next I visit the States I will not fail to let you know. I beg to sign myself, Your kinsman, Athlumney. Burke's Pedigree of the Meredyth s of Ireland. The note by Burke, mentioned above by Lord Athlumney, is as follows : Lord Athlumney, who is also Lord Meredyth in the peerage of the United Kingdom, is the representative of the family of Meredyth of Dollardstown, Co. Meath, 1 cadets of the family founded in Ireland in 15S4 by the Right Rev. Richard Meredyth, Bishop of Leighlin and Ferns, descended out of Wales. The Right Hon. Sir Robert Meredyth, Knt., P. C, the eldest son of the bishop, was ancestor of Meredyth, Bart., of Greenhills, Co. Kildare. Sir Thomas Meredyth, Knt., second son of the bishop, was ancestor, through his eldest son, Charles, of Meredyth, Bart., of Carlandstowu, Co. Meath. Arthur Meredyth, ot Dollardstown, Co. Meath, second son of the last-named Sir Thomas Meredyth, Knt., was ancestor of the family now represented by Lord Athlumney. Lord Athlumney descends, in the male line, from Sir Marcus Somerville, 4th Bart., M. P., and Mary Ann, his wife, only daughter and heir of Sir Richard Gorges Meredyth, Bart., of St. Katherine's Grove, Co. Dublin, and Mary, his wife, daughter and heir of Arthur Francis Meredyth, of Dollardstown, son and heir of Lieut. -Gen. Thomas Meredyth, eldest son of Arthur Meredyth, of Dollardstown, above mentioned. The Bishop of Leighlin, who founded the family in Ireland, was educated at Jesus Coll., Oxford — B. A., 1573; M. A., 1575; prebend, of Coll. Church of Brecon, 1574; rector of Burton, Co. Pembrook,, 157S; vicar of Llanavon Vawr, Co. Brecon, 1579; cursal prebend, of St. David's, 1580; rector of Nangle, Co. Pembrook, 1580; chaplain to Sir John Perrott, Lord Deputy of Ireland and Dean of St. Patrick's, Dublin, 1584, and Bishop of Leighlin and Ferns, 1589 till his death, 1597. He was son of Robert Meredyth ap Grouw, with whom the registered pedigree in Ireland begins. He is said to have been grandson of Thomas a Meredith of Llangylo in Wales and descended from Howel ap Maddoc Llangylo. In Wales family names were not in general use until long after the time of Queen Elizabeth. Hence a coat-of-arms is a more certain guide to a man's early pedigree than his name vould be. The Meredyths of Ireland and our own Radnorshire Merediths are without question of the same family and blood. The tradition of this has been handed down from generation to generation ever since the former went to Ireland and the latter came to America. The arms used by the American 1 Lord Athlumney's landed estate in County Meath. Ireland, according to the Encyclo- pedia Uritannica, amounts to 10.213 acres. 332 Rossiana. family long before the Revolution are the same as those used by the Irish Mefedyths. One of the early American Merediths called his country estate Green Hills, after an estate in Wales, while the Irish Meredyths did the same. MEREDITH ARMS. According to Sir Bernard Burke, there was confirmation of ancient arms argent a lion rampant sable, gorged with a collar and chain affixed thereto retlexed over the back or. Crest a dcmi-lion rampant sable collared and chained or, Motto, Heb dduw heb ddim. a Duw a digon, 1574, And accord- ing to the same learned authority these arms were originally granted to com- memorate the Meredith descent from the Prince of Powis. However that may be these arms were always used by both Reese Meredith and Samuel Meredith on their carriage- and be free that i> tied about the neck, which Aristotle observeth. saying: " Halliom animal tunc est liberum, quando collum suum vinculis habet solutum." BRIGADIER-GENERAL SAMUEL MEREDITH. First Treasurer of the United States. The following sketch of the career of General Samuel Meredith, written by Wharton Dickinson, will be found of much interest: In the noble eulogy on Emanuel Swedenborg, delivered by Mr. Samuel Sandel. member if the Royal Academy of Sciences, Stockholm, at the request of that body, in the Great Hall of the House of Nobles, on the 7th of October, 177-'. occur these words: " Xature and art form the ornaments of the earth; birth and education form those of the human race. A fruit-seed does not always produce a tree which yields as excellent fruit as that which produced it: which often i- owing to the modifications effected in the tree by art, which occasion a difference in iis products, but do not at all alter its nature. Experience supplies us with a great many similar instances in our species. But it would be hazarding a paradox were we to attempt to determine how far certain virtues are hereditary in families, or are introduced into them by education. Be this as it may, it cannot be denied, that the advantage of having sprung from a respectable and virtuous family, inspires a man with confidence, when he is conscious that he does not disgrace his descent. In every condition, it is a real advantage to be born in a family which has been, for a long time, the abode of honor and virtue, and a nursery of citizens every way useful to the country." To such a family belonged the subject of this sketch. The son of a man, himself distinguished for his virtue, integrity and patriotism, a friend of liberty and a benefactor of his country, we are not surprised to find Samuel Meredith, at an early day, openly advocating the cause of the colonies. Reese Meredith, the father, was a native of Leominster, Herefordshire, where he was born in 1708. His father, John Meredith, a woolen mer- chant of that town, was the youngest son of " Richard Meredith of Pres- teigne, Gentleman," living in 1673, the representative of the ancient line of " Merediths of Radnorshire," to whom Queen Elizabeth granted the right to bear arms in 1572, viz.: "Argent, a lion rampant, sable, collared and chained, or : Crest a demi-lion. rampant, sable, collared and chained, or." Reese Meredith was educated at Oxford, and at his father's death, in 1729, came to this country, landing in Philadelphia in February, 1730, where he entered the counting house of John Carpenter, second son of the well- known Samuel Carpenter, Member of the Provincial Council, Treasurer Meredith Family. 333 of the Province, and one of the two Lieutenant-Governors appointed by Penn to assist Markham in the government of the Province; the commis- sion bears date September 24, 1694, and was issued to John Goodson and Samuel Carpenter. In 1738 Mr. Meredith married his employer's daughter, Martha, and was taken into partnership with his father-in-law, and on his death succeeded to the business. He lost his wife August 26, 1769; he sur- vived her nine years, dying on the 14th of November, 1778. During the darkest hours of the revolution Mr. Meredith's faith in the ultimate success of the colonies never wavered, and when the patriots were perishing from cold and hunger, at Valley Forge, in the winter of 1777-78, he generously gave, from his ample means, the munificent sum of £5.000 to feed and clothe the starving soldiers. George Clymer and Colonel Henry Hill, names well known to the students of American history, were his sons-in-law. Samuel Meredith, the son. was born in the city of Philadelphia in the year 1741, in his father's mansion, which stood on the corner of Second and Walnut streets. The house was built by his great-grandfather, Samuel Carpenter, soon after the settlement of the city. When about fourteen years of age he entered the academy of Dr. Robert Allison, of Philadelphia, a noted Presbyterian divine, where he remained some four years. Upon leaving the academy he immediately went into his father's counting house, and devoted himself to learning mercantile business. March 22d, 1765, George Clymer married his sister, Elizabeth Meredith, and in April the two young men were admitted as partners in the business, the firm name becoming " Meredith & Sons." It so continued until 1778, after which it was " Meredith & Clymer," until 1782. when it was dissolved. November 7th, 1765, all three of the firm signed the " Non-Importation Resolutions," the great forerunner of the " Declaration of '76." About this time Mr. Meredith began to take a deep interest in the political affairs of the day. He was an earnest advocate of the principles of the Whig party, and served a term or two in the General Assembly. On the 19th of May, 1772, he was united in marriage, at the Arch street Meeting House (Friends), to Mar- garet, daughter of Dr. Thomas Cadwalader. one of Philadelphia's leading surgeons, and a member of the Governor's Council. They enjoyed a happy married life of forty-five years, and were blessed with six children. On the 20th of May, 1774, Mr. Meredith attended the first of the meetings, held by the citizens of Philadelphia, to protest against the unjust preten- tions and usurpations of Great Britain. On the 18th of June he was present at the great meeting held in the State House yard, at which John Dickin- son and Thomas Willing presided, when it was determined to be expedient to issue a call for a Continental Congress. Mr. Meredith was sent, as a deputy from Philadelphia, to the Provincial Convention, held at Independ- ence Hall from the 23d to the 28th of January, 1775. On the 24th of April, 1775, he was one of the great meeting held in the State House yard, at which it was estimated over eight thousand citizens were present. Here it was that the citizens of Philadelphia determined to form battalions for the defence of their lives, liberty and property. One of these battalions, the Third, was officered as follows: John Cadwalader, Colonel; John Nixon, Lieutenant-Colonel; Thomas Mifflin, Senior Major; Samuel Meredith. Junior Major. , The first appearance of these citizen soldiers was in May, when they marched out to meet the southern delegates to Congress, and escort them into the city; a like compliment was paid to the delegates from the Eastern States a few days later. The third battalion is historically known as the " Silk Stockings," so called from the social standing of its officers and men. Early in 1775 a number of the prominent citizens of Philadelphia, favorable to the cause of independence, organized an association, which they named the " Whig Society." Each member presided in turn for a month. In August, 1775, this honor fell on Major Meredith. The ques- tions discussed were, of course, of a political nature. The society generally met at the " City Tavern." Washington, in July, 1776, requested that the associators be sent to the defence of Amboy. In pursuance of these orders, •Colonel John Dickinson with the First battalion, and Colonel John Cad- 334 Rossi ana. walader with the Third and the Second, the name of whose Colonel is unknown to us, left Philadelphia on the 12th of July for Amboy, and remained there six weeks. In December, upon Washington's recommenda- tion, the three battalions were consolidated into one brigade of 1,200 men, with Colonel Cadwalader as Brigadier-General. Nixon became Colonel of the third, and [Meredith, Lieutenant-Colonel, the Senior Major, Mifflin, hav- ing been elected to Congress. They left Philadelphia for Trenton on the 10th. Washington, in a letter to the President of Congress, dated Decem- ber 13th, 1776, says: " Cadwalader, with the Philadelphia militia, occupies the ground above and below the mouth of the Neshaminy River, as far down as Dunk's Ferry, at which place Colonel Nixon is posted with the Third battalion of Philadelphia." When Washington planned the attack on Trenton, he arranged for the main army to cross at " McConkey's Ferry," nine miles above Trenton; Dickinson, with the New Jersey Militia, to cross at Yardlyville, four miles above the town: Ewing at the Falls opposite; and Cadwalader at Bristol. Owing to the ice, the main army alone succeeded in crossing. Cadwalader, with a detachment, crossed over at Bristol, but had to return, as his entire force was unable to move. He succeeded, however, in crossing on the 30th, and marched to Lambertown, now South Trenton, on the south side of the Assunpink Creek, and his entire command took an active part in the battle of Princeton on the 3d of January, 1777. The Americans then went into winter quarters at Morristown. Cadwalader's brigade remained there until about February 1st, when they returned to Philadelphia. In the latter part of January Washington paid a living visit to Philadel- phia, as would appear from the following extract from a letter to Colonel Meredith from his wife, bearing date January 27, 1777: " General Wash- ington invited himself to breakfast with me yesterday: the children were at table, and behaved themselves extremely well. I observed that the Gen- eral is very grave. I do not wonder at it: a man of his reflection must feel strongly our present unhappy situation. * * * Experience teaches me, my dear husband, that true happiness can alone be found in the bosom of independence." The intimacy between' General Washington and the Mere- diths was one of long standing, and Reese Meredith used to relate the following anecdote as to its origin, which has been handed down to us by successive generations. Says he: "In the fall of 1755 I happened to step into the Coffee House to lunch. While sitting there I noticed a genteel- looking stranger, sitting apart from the rest, reading a paper. I took the liberty of a Friend to approach the young man. and inquired his name and place of residence, and was answered in reply that he was Colonel George Washington of Virginia; that he was here on business for the Governor of Virginia in relation to the Indians. I was highly pleased with the young man's appearance, and invited him home to dine with me on fresh venison." This acquaintance, thus happily begun, lasted through life, and was only broken by the death of Washington in 1799. April 5. 1777, Colonel Meredith was commissioned Brigadier-General of the Fourth Brigade; June 5th, 1777, John Armstrong was commissioned Major-General, and on the 26th of August James Irvine, Brigadier-General. The four brigades were placed under Armstrong, the Brigadiers ranking as follows: John Cadwalader, First Brigade, date of commission, Decem- ber 25, 1776; James Potter, Second Brigade, date of commission, April 5, 1777: Samuel Meredith, Third Brigade, date of commission, April 5, 1777; James Irvine. Fourth Brigade, date of commission. August 26, 1777. In this rank they took part in the battles of Brandywine and Germantown, and shared the discomforts of Valley Forge. General Meredith's military service ended January 9, 1778, when he resigned his commission, and returned to Philadelphia. He was succeeded by his senior Colonel, John Lacey, whose commission dates January 9. 1778. This step was occasioned by his father's ill health, and the continued absence of his brother-in-law. Mr. Clymer, to the great detriment of the business of the firm of Meredith & Sons. General Meredith had taken the oath of allegiance to the new State Government of Pennsylvania. Meredith Family. 335 August 7, 1777. and on the 6th of November, 1778, was elected to the Assembly from the city of Philadelphia. He served until October, 1779. He was again elected to the Assembly in November, 1781, and served until October, 1783. In the fall of 1779 he, with George Clymer and Henry Hill, fitted out the sloop-of-war " Mariah," commanded by John Lord, carrying eight guns, and manned by twenty-five men. In the spring of 1780 he and George Clymer subscribed £5,000 ($25,000) each to the fund of $315,000, contributed by ninety-three citizens of Phila- delphia for the support of the army. Mr. Meredith was also a director of the Bank of North America, organized by Robert Morris and others in May, 1781. In August, 1781, he was elected President of the Welsh Society in Philadelphia, which bore the rather high-sounding title of the " Royal Society of Ancient Britons." In 1782 he and Mr. Clymer dissolved part- nership. November 26, 1786, he was elected to the Congress of the Con- federation and served on the committee, composed of one delegate from each State, which issued the call for the Federal Convention, in pursuance of the recommendation contained in the letter issued by the Annapolis Convention of 1786. General Meredith served until November, 1788 (two terms). August 9, 1789, he was appointed by President Washington Surveyor of the Port of Philadelphia, but he held the office only six weeks, as appears from the following: " " Journal of the Senate, Friday, September 11, 1789. — A message from the President of the United States, which Mr. Lear, his secretary, delivered to the Vice-President and withdrew: 'Gentlemen of the Senate: I nominate for the department of the Treasury of the United States Alexander Hamilton of New York, Secretary; Nicholas Eveleigh of South Carolina, Comptroller; Samuel Meredith of Pennsylvania, Treasurer; Oliver Wolcott, Jr., of Connecticut, .Auditor; and Joseph Nourse of Pennsylvania, Register; * * * and in case the nomination of Samuel Meredith should meet with the advice and consent of the Senate, I nominate as Surveyor of the Port of Philadelphia William McPherson. George Washington." General Meredith entered upon the duties of his office when the Treasury of the country was in a most distressing condition. It required financial ability of the highest order; but Washington well knew the character of the man whom he had selected to fill this most responsible position. He held the office twelve years and six weeks; his annual reports were models of their kind, and always received deserved recognition from the hands of Congress. During his long administration as Treasurer not a single dis- crepancy marred the entire correctness of his accounts. During the first year he resided in New York in a house on Broadway, opposite the Presi- dential Mansion. He was on terms of intimacy with Chancellor Livingston, with whom he frequently dined in a " friendly manner." He was also a frequent guest at the table of the first President, as appears by the latter's private journal. He resided in Philadelphia from 1790 to 1800, and in Washington until October 31, 1801, the date of his retirement. He served under Washington and the elder Adams, and seven months under Jeffer- son; and his chiefs were: Alexander Hamilton, 1789-95; Oliver Wolcott, 1795-1800, and Samuel Dexter. 1800-1802. His retirement was due to ill- health and financial embarrassments, his private affairs having become sadly neglected during his official life; upon it he received the following complimentary letter from Jefferson: Monticello, September 4, 1801. Dear Sir. — I received, yesterday, your favor of August 29th, resigning your office as Treasurer of the United States after the last of October next. I am sorry for the circumstances which dictate the measure to you; but from their nature, and the deliberate consideration of which it seems to be the result, I presume that dissuasives on my part would be without effect. My time in office has not been such as to bring me into intimate insight into the proceedings of the several departments, but I am sure I hazard nothing when I testify in your favor, that you have conducted yourself with perfect integrity and propriety in the duties of the office you have filled and pray you to be assured of my highest consideration. Mr. Meredith. Thomas Jefferson. General Meredith retired to his estate called " Belmont," situated in Clin- ton, Mount Pleasant and Preston townships, Wayne County, Pennsylvania. It was some twenty miles in length, and two in breadth, and contained 33 6 Rossiana. nearly 26.000 acres. He had purchased this tract about 1796, and about 1812 erected a dwelling on it, about a mile from Mount Pleasant, at a cost of $6,000. Here he spent the remaining sixteen years of his life, superin- tending the settlement and development of his vast estate. He, with his brother-in-law, George Clymer, from 1774 until 1800 purchased vast tracts of wild land, situated in Bradford, Luzerne. Pike, Schuylkill, Sullivan, Sus- quehanna, Wayne and Wyoming counties, Pennsylvania; Sullivan and Del- aware counties, New York and in Western Virginia and Eastern Kentucky; in all about 500,000 acres. General Meredith departed this life at " Belmont," on Monday, February 10th, 1817, in the seventy-sixth year of his age; his wife survived him nearly four years, dying September 20th, 1820. They were both buried in the pri- vate burial-ground of the family, on the "manor tract." We know of no better personal description of the General than the following, taken from a letter written by the venerable Alvah Norton, of Aldenville. Wayne Countv. to Dr. Meredith Maxwell, of New York, a great-grandson of the General. It is dated June 30th. 1877. Mr. Norton was then in his eighty- first year. Dear Sir.— Received vour letter dated June 20th, 1877, concerning General Samuel Meredith. In reply to your first inquiry, I remember an elderly gentleman attired in dress coat and knee-breeches of navv-blue broadcloth; shoes and silken hose; gold buckles at the knee and shoes; buff or white vest; ruffled shirt front and ruffles at the wrist falling over his delicate hands; hair powdered and worn in a queue, tied with a ribbon the color of his coat. In height about five feet ten inches, straight as an arrow, spare in flesh. A well-balanced head, bright, restless, light-blue eyes under a well- develope'd forehead, an aquiline nose, a firm mouth and decided chin. I have often seen him walking the porch of his residence, hands linked behind him. with nervous move- ments, ofttimes thinking aloud. There hung (in the old days), in the parlor at Belmont, a portrait of him. taken, 1 judge, about the age of forty, which was considered by the family to be an excellent likeness; * * * Of his habits of life I may not be a competent judge; should think he kept as closely to his city habits as change to country life would permit. * * * He kept a colored housekeeper named Rachael who, I think, came with the family from Philadelphia. She always, after his death, insisted that " < >ld Massa " visited the sleeping-rooms, after the occupants were asleep, to see if the lights were out — an invariable habit of his, as long as he lived. * * * His daughters were expected to take as much care of their personal appearance as though living in Philadelphia. They were always in full dress at dinner. Three hours were occupied at the dinner-table daily, and the utmost ceremony observed. On the gentle declivity of the Moosic, overlooking the lovely valley of the Lackawaxen, lie the remains of the beloved friend of Washington and the first Treasurer of the Union; by his side sleeps his noble and accom- plished wife. A movement was set on foot July 4, 1877, for the erection ni a monument to mark the site. Hon. Edward Overton, member of Con- gress from Pennsylvania, has introduced a joint resolution in the House at Washington for an appropriation of $10,000. Of General Meredith's issue, we shall make slight mention of three. His only son, Thomas Meredith, was a lawyer by profession; held the commis- sion of Major during the War of 1812; served as Prothonotary, Clerk of Courts, Recorder and Register for Wayne county, 1821-30, and was largely interested in the development of the Lackawanna coal fields. He opened the first mines in Carbondale in 1824, obtained a charter, and had the route surveyed for a railroad from Scranton to Great Bend. The route is now used by the northern division of the Delaware. Lackawanna and Western Railroad. He died at Trenton. New Jersey, in 1855, aged 76. General Meredith's eldest daughter, Martha, married Hon. John Read, Agent-General of the United States for British Debts, member of the Penn- sylvania House of Representatives and Senate, City Solicitor of Philadelphia, and President of the Philadelphia Bank, 1819-41. Their son was the late Hon. John Meredith Read, LL.D.. member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Attorney-General of Pennsylvania and Justice of the Supreme Court. Pennsylvania, 1858-72; Chief Justice, 1872-73, and father of General John Meredith Read. LL.D., F. S. A.. M. R. I. A.. Regent of Cornell Uni- versity, Adjutant-General of the State of New York, Consul-General to Paris. 1869-73 ; Minister and Charge d'Afifaires to Athens, 1873-79. General Meredith Family. 337 Meredith's third daughter, Anne, married Samuel Dickinson, Esq., of Tren- ton, father of Philemon Dickinson, Esq., President of the Trenton Banking Company, 1832-79, United States Pension Agent for many years, member of the New Jersey Constitutional Commission, 1873, and chairman Board of Managers of the State Sinking Fund, a Mason of high rank, an honorary member of the New Jersey Historical Society and of the State Society of the Cincinnati, and also of Colonel Samuel Dickinson's First New Jersey Militia, and captain of Company E, Tenth U. S. Infantry during the Mexican war. UNVEILING OF GENERAL MEREDITH'S STATUE. In connection with the foregoing matter concerning the Meredith family, I have thought that an address made before many thousands of people at Pleasant Mount on the occasion of the unveiling of statue to Gen. Samuel Meredith, would nor be uninteresting to the readers of this book. This statue was erected by the State of Pennsylvania to commemorate Meredith's great services to his country during the American Revolution. The author was asked to make this address by the Meredith Monument Association and the State. Many very able orations were made by distinguished men who had gathered from all parts of the State to do honour to this great patriot. 1 can yet remember with pleasure and admiration Judge Edwards' masterpiece. Mrs. Captain Graham, a granddaughter of General Meredith, unveiled the statue. Under it are buried the bodies of the general and his wife, Margaret Cadwalader. Members of the Samuel Meredith Monument Association, Ladies and Gentlemen : " The fathers and founders of our country were friends to truth, virtue and liberty "— to that glorious band of patriots, statesmen and soldiers who founded this great nation Gen. Samuel Meredith belonged. It may be said with perfect truth that of all the leaders of the American Revolution none were more generous, none more unselfish and few risked as much as he. He had little to gain and much to lose. Blessed with a very large fortune, the Meredith family, when the Revolution broke out, stood in the front rank among the richest and most influential families in this country. General Meredith was born in Philadelphia in 1740 and was the son of Reese Meredith, who occupied a high social position in that city and who was born in Radnorshire, Wales, and was the son of Reese Meredith, of Landoglen, Radnorshire, gentleman, and was eighth in descent from Llwellyn ap Meredydd, or Meredith, a native prince of Wales. General Meredith received a liberal education at the College of Philadelphia, now the Uni- versity of Pennsylvania, and in the spring of 1765 he and his brother-in-law, George Clymer, who married his eldest sister, became partners with the elder Mr. Meredith. On the 7th of Nov., 1765, he and they signed the Non-Importation Resolutions. He married, on the 21st of May, 1772, Margaret Cadwalader, daughter of ■ Dr. Thomas Cadwalader, of Philadelphia, and sister of Col. Lambert and Gen. John Cadwalader. On October 2nd, 1774, he took his seat in the Common Council as successor to Gen. John Cadwalader, and served until 1776. He was a member of the Provincial Conference of Pennsylvania in 1775 and the same year was chairman of the Revolutionary Committee of Safety of Pennsylvania. He was Major of the famous "Silk Stocking" Regiment of Philadelphia that enlisted for and participated in the battles of Trenton and Princeton and was General of the Fourth Brigade of Penn- sylvania troops at the battles of Germantown and Brandywine. He was twice a member of the Colonial Assembly. In 1780, at a moment of great financial distress, when the army was in a precarious condition, 33§ Rossi ana. Gen. Meredith and his brothers-in-law. Colonel George Clymer and Colonel Henry Hill, each subscribed five thousand pounds for the public relief. He was a member of the State Board of Finance from 1781 to 1785. He repre- sented Pennsylvania in the Continental Congress from October, 1786, to October, 1788, serving until that body disbanded. He voted aye for the adoption of the ratification of the Federal Constitution by that historic last Congress. On August 3rd, 1789, Washington nominated him Surveyor of the Port of Philadelphia, but in the following month of September appointed him Treasurer of the United States, he being the first person who held that office. He ably seconded the endeavors of Alexander Hamilton to restore the financial credit of the country. It has been publicly stated that the first money paid into the Treasury of the United States after its formal organ- ization in 17S9 was a draft of Gen. Samuel Meredith for $20,000 on the Bank of Pennsylvania, of which he was a director. To this he shortly afterward added one hundred and forty thousand dollars. Secretary Sherman declared, in an address in New York, that not one dollar of this money has ever been repaid by the government. He served as Treasurer under Washington and Adams, resigning when Jefferson came into office in 1801 against the desire of the new President. In conjunction with Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Geo. Clymer and others, he had in the meantime purchased a large tract of land in northern Pennsylvania. In 1796 he made an individual purchase of 5,000 acres in Wayne county. He also owned one hundred and twenty thousand acres of land in Delaware county, N. Y., upon which stand the three towns of Meredith, and was a large landed proprietor in Virginia. He named his great estate in Wayne county Belmont. It extended from the Mousic Mountains northward to the New York State line, a distance of 22 miles, and was two miles wide. Upon this property he built a fine man- sion surrounded with outhouses for his servants and dependents. A part of this house was still standing a few years ago and was unfortunately burned. Gen. Meredith died on February 16th, 1817, at Belmont Manor. His daugh- ter, Martha Meredith, b. 1773, married at Christ Church on the 25 June, 1796, my great grandfather, Hon. John Read, Senator of Pennsylvania, Agent- General under Jay's Treaty. Gen. Meredith was nearly 6 feet tall, straight as an arrow, spare in flesh, with a well-balanced head, bright, lively blue eyes under a well-developed forehead, and having an aquiline nose, a firm mouth ami a decided chin. He usually wore a dress coat and knee breeches of navy blue broadcloth, a buff waistcoat, white silk stockings and gold buckles at the knee and upon the shoes, and from his fob pocket hung his costly seals, a ruffled shirt and lace at the wrists falling over his delicate hands, hair powdered and worn in a cue tied with a ribbon of the same color as the coat completed the costume. As a younger man he often wore a velvet coat and velvet breeches and a sword and diamond buckles to his shoes. Such was the man whose memory we have gathered here together to-day to do honour to. It is most fitting that here in this beautiful country where he lived and died, and which he loved so well, the first public monument erected to Samuel Meredith should stand, and that among many of those attending this unveiling to-day so many descendants of those who loved and knew Meredith should be found. Samuel Meredith, the patriot, the soldier, the financier and the gentleman is indeed a name that all of you in this county of Wayne in particular and in the State of Pennsylvania in general should be justly proud of. In the service of his country he never counted the cost. He lived to see much of his vast wealth swept away from him and to feel that his country was not even grateful enough for his great services to pay to him what it owed, and yet never an unkind word came from Meredith. It is surely high time that our country should remember this debt by erecting in the city of Washington a statue to this great man who did so much to make us what we are. Meredith Family. 339 A MEREDITH GHOST STORY. General Samuel Meredith's old colored housekeeper, who had originally come from Philadelphia with him many years before, and had ever since been in charge of the Belmont manor house, stated that, after his death, she had often seen the ghost of the " old massa " visiting the sleeping rooms after the occupants were wrapped in slumber, to see if the lights were out, which had been his invariable custom as long as he lived. It is also related that General Meredith's colored body servant, thirteen days after the general's funeral, was lighting the lights in the great hall in the early evening and, hearing someone coming down the stairs, turned to see who it was. To his amazement and consternation, he beheld the well- known figure of General Meredith, dressed in his best blue coat and gold buttons, blue shorts, yellow silk hose and waistcoat, pumps with diamond buckles, and in his hand his gold snuff-box, on the lid of which was his crest formed of diamonds. The old servant nearly fainted when the general, turning to him, said : " Do not fear me, Sam, for I am pleased with you and your faithful work since I have been away. Tell my sen, your master, to look under the grey stone slab in the cellar for the one hundred pounds in gold for which he has been looking since I left here." The ghost then vanished. The one hundred pounds was found under the stone, and Sam got one of them as a reward. The last time the ghost of General Meredith was said to have been seen was when the last remnant of the old manor house was burned many years ago. Among the persons attracted by the fire from Pleasant Mount was to be seen an elderly and erect looking man, dressed in a blue coat, yellow shorts and waistcoat, white silk stockings and a three-cornered hat, with his white hair done in a cue and tied with a black ribbon. He went among the people urging them to extinguish the fire. When the house had finally burned down, he was joined by a young man and a lovely looking lady, and all three turned, took one farewell look at the smouldering embers, and walked across the field to the place where were buried the bodies of General Meredith, his wife and grandson, Dr. Henry Meredith Read, and vanished in the gloom of the trees. 340 Rossi ana. CARPENTER FAMILY. Samuel Carpenter (b. 1649), at one time the richest man in the Colony of Pennsylvania, the trusted friend of William Penn, a member of the Provin- cial Council, and Treasurer of the Province, married on October 12. 1684, Hannah Hardiman (b. 1646, d. 1728), a native of Haverford, West South _ I at.- J. ,.-. . ■ ■, iV. £ I PSVLSIA. -i_ Wales, (laughter of Abraham Hardiman. She and her brother, Abraham, arrived in Philadelphia in the late spring of 1683. She was a noted preacher. Samuel Carpenter's son, John Carpenter (b. March 5. 1690), married Ann, daughter of Dr. Richard Hoskins, and had, Martha, who married Reese Meredith. (See Meredith pedigree.) Carpenter Arms. — Argent, a greyhound sable, a chief of the last. CADWALADER FAMILY. GENERAL SAMUEL MEREDITH married, on May 19, 1772, Margaret Cadwalader, daughter of Dr. Thomas Cadwalader, of Philadelphia. Their daughter, Martha, married Hon. John Read, son of George Read, the " Signer." Margaret Cadwalader brought into the Meredith fam- ily two ancient pedigrees — probably the most ancient in America — of Cadwalader. These pedigrees, as given below, are taken from Rev. Compton Reade's " Record of the Redes " : DESCENT FROM THE ANCIENT KINGS OF WALES. Rhodri-Mawr, King of all Wales, died 876 Cadell, Prince of South Wales. Howell-dda, King of all Wales. Owen, Prince of South Wales. Einion, eldest son, k.v.p. Tudor-Mawr, Prince of South Wales. Rhys ap Tudor-Mawr, Prince of South Wales. I I Griffith ap Rhys, Prince of South Wales. Rhys ap Griffith, Chief Justice of South Wales. Rhys Gryd, Lord of Yestradtywy. I Rhys Mychyllt, Lord of Llandovery Castle. Rhys Vaughn, of Yestradtywy. Rhys-Gloff, Lord of Cymeydmacn. 342 Rossi a n a. Madoc ap Rhys. Trahairn-Goch, of Llyn, Grainoc, and Penllech. David Goch, of Penllech. Evan ap David-Goch, of Grainoc and Penllech, temp. 1352, had by his wife, Lady Eva, daughter of Einion ap Celynnin, of Llwy- diarth. in Montgomeryshire a descendant of Bleddyn ap Cynfyn, Prince of Wales, founder of one of the Royal Tribes, Madoc ap Ievan, of Grainoc. Deikws-Ddu, who had by his wife, Gwen, daughter of Ievanddu, a descend- ant of Maeloc Crwm, chieftain of the 7th Royal I Tribe of Wales, 11 75, ~l Einion ap Deikws, w1io=Morvydd, daughter of Matw ap Llowasch. Howel ap Einion, w1io=Mali, daughter of Llewllyn ap Ievan. Griffith ap Howel, w1io=Gwenlian, daughter of Einion ap Ievan Lloyd. Lewis ap Griffith, of Yshute, w1io=Ethli (or Ellen), daughter of Edward ap Ievan Llanoddyn by his wife. Catharine Griffith, a descendant of I King Edward I. Robert ap Lewis, wIio=Gwrvyl (or Gwyrrl), daughter of Llewllyn ap I David, of Llan Rwst, Denbighshire. _ I Evan ap Robert ap Lewis, of Rhiwlas and Vron Goch. ! I Owen ap Evan. Ellen Evans=Cadwalader Thomas ap Hugh, of Kiltalgarth, Llanvawr, Merionethshire, and had by him, who died ante 1683, John Cadwalader, of Philadelphia, who=at Friends' Meeting, Lower Merion. I Pa.. 29th December, 1699, Martha, daughter of Dr. Ed- ward Jones by his wife, Mary, daughter of Dr. Thomas I Wynne, of Philadelphia, also of Royal Descent. 1 Dr. Thomas Cadwalader, of Philadelphia, who=i8th June. 1738, Hannah, daughter of Thomas Lambert. Cadwalader Family. 343 Margaret Cadwalader, who=i9th May, 1772, General Samuel Meredith. Martha Meredith, \vho=i/96, John Read, of Philadelphia (son of George Read, a Signer of the Declaration of Inde- pendence). Chief Justice John Meredith Read, of Philadelphia, born 1797, died 1874, who had, by his first wife, Priscilla Marshall, the late I General John Meredith Read. A FURTHER DESCENT FROM THE ANCIENT KINGS OF WALES. Marchweithian, Prince of one of the 15 Tribes of North Wales and Lord of Ys Aled. I March wystt. Ysdrwyth. 1_ I Tagnu. ! I Tyfid. I I Heilin. Kyrnrig ap Llowarch. I_ I ElYNION AP KYNRIG. I I David ap Eiynion. "1 Evan ddu. Evan ap Coch of Bryammer, co Denbigh. Tudor ap Rees. Rees goch ap Tyder. I I Evan ap Rees goch. Rossiana. 344 Hugh ap Evan. I I Thomas ap Hugh. Cadwalader ap Thomas ap Hugh — Ellen Evans. Hon. John Cadwalader of Phila.=MARTHA Jones, from whom was de- scended (vide preceding pedigree) the late General John Meredith Read. Cadwalader Arms. — Azure, a cross pattee fitchee or. Crest. — A cross partee fitchee. r OF THE FAMILY OF GENERAL i the Mayflower Families of Cushman, and Cook, a?id frotn the Early New Freeman and Marshall, hon Pumpelxy Read, 1907) WER FAMILIES — 1620. \ ; 4 I arren William Bradford — Alice Southworth irren William Bradford — Alice Richards Francis Cook Esther Mary Cook John Thompson =John Bradford Jacob Thornpson=Abigail Wadsworth I I >rd=**Jonathan Freeman John Thompson=Joanna Adams' (See below) ms Thompson losiah Marshall (See below) iall=Jobn M. Read u Meredith Read=Delphine Marie Pumpelly * MAYFLOWER DESCENT. THE family of General John Meredith Read is descended, by intermarriage, from at least four distinct families who came over in the Mayflower in 1620. The appended chart shows the descent from the Mayflower families of Cushman, Allerton, Warren, Bradford and Cook, as well as from the early New England families of Waterman, Freeman and Marshall. General Read's family is descended from these eight families through Hon. Josiah Marshall, whose daughter, Priscilla, married Hon. John M. Read, father of General Read. The heavy face figures herein refer to the chart numbers of the heads of families : CUSHMAN FAMILY. 1. Robert Cushman, a Plymouth Pilgrim, was born in England in 1580; died in England in 1625. He was instrumental in obtaining the patent in which the King granted toleration to the American Colonists for their form of religion, and Cushman embarked with his family on the Speedivell (which was intended to accompany the Mayflower, but which was compelled to return to Plymouth) August 5, 1620, but returned with that vessel, and remained in England to act as financial agent for the colonists. The next year he went to New England, accompanied by his son, Thomas (afterward Elder), but remained there only two months. While there he preached a sermon on " Sin and Danger of Self-Love," which became noted as the first sermon delivered in the New World that was published. It was published in Eng- land in 1622, and republished in Boston in 1724. While returning to England in 1621, he was captured by the French, held two weeks, and then released. In 1623 he obtained a grant of territory on Cape Ann, where a new band of Pilgrims made the first permanent settlement within the limits of the Massa- chusetts Bay colony. Robert Cushman had one son — Elder Thomas Cushman (born in England), who married Mary, daugh- ter of Isaac Allerton (2), and had — Rev. Isaac Cushman, first minister of Plympton. Selectman of Plym- outh, and Deputy from Plymouth to the General Court of the Colony, 1690. He married Mary Rickard, and had — Mary Cushman (born October 12, 1682), who married Robert Waterman. (See Waterman Family.) ALLERTON FAMILY. 2. Isaac Allerton (born 1583) sailed for America in the first voyage of the Mayftozver in 1620, and was an enterprising member of the Colony until 1631, when he had a dispute with the settlers, and removed to Marblehead, establishing several trading stations. He died in New Haven in 1659. His wife was Mary Norris, by whom he had — Mary Allerton, wdio married Elder Thomas Cushman. (See above.) Mary Allerton was the last survivor of the Mayftozver company. Her daughter, Mary Cushman, married Robert Waterman. (See belozv.) CHART SHOWING THE DESCENT OF THE FAMILY OF GENFr JOHN MEREDITH READ from the Mayflower Families of CushT ^ Allerton, Warren, Bradford and Cook, and from the Earl, ^a**' England Families of Waterman, Freeman and Marshall ^ (Prepared by Major Harmon Pumpelly Read, 1907) HEADS OF MAYFLOWER FAMILIES— 1620. 1 I a I 3 I 4 , Robert Cushman Isaac Allerton Richard Warren William Bradford c... ' — — rK *Ncis Cook MaryNorris Alice Soinhworth EstheV Mary Cook N John Thompson Thomas Cushman=Mary Allerton Joseph Warren William Bradford Alice Richards Isaac Cushman=Mary Rickard Mercy Warren=John Bradford Jacob Thompson=Abigail Wadsworth Mary Cushman=*Robert Waterman Mercy Bradford=**Jonathan Freeman John ThomDson-r™„„, (See below) j (See below) nompson-Joanna Adams Thomas Waterman=Mercy Freeman Freeman Waterman=Joanna Adams Thompson Priscilla Waterman=***Josiah Marshall (See below) Priscilla Marshall=john M. Read General John Meredith Read=Delphine Marie Pumpelly Harmon Pumpelly Read Emily Meredith Read John Meredith Read, Jr. " Marie Delphine Meredith Read Countess Alix de Foras Count Max de Foras Marguerite de Carron d'Allondans 1st Francis A. Stout Ud Edwards Spencer John Meredith Read, 4th Countess Huguette" Countess Delphine Count josepli WATERMAN FAMILY Robert WATERMAN=Elizabeth Bourns (Plymouth, 1U35) I John Waterman=Anna Sturtevant 'Robert Waterman=Mary Cushman (See above) FREEMAN FAMILY Edmund Freeman^ — (Early at Plymouth) I Thomas Freer. ♦♦Jonathan Freeman- Mercy Bradford (See above) MARSHALL FAMILY 8. Thomas Marshall^ (Plymouth, 1634) John Marshall=Mary Burrage John Marshall^Eunice Rogers Isaac Marshall = Phebe Richardson Isaac Marshall=Abigail Brown ♦«*Josiah Marshall^ Priscilla Waterman (See above) (A detailed descent of Hon. Josiah Marshall appears elsewhere.) 346 Rossiana. WARREN FAMILY. 3. Richard Warren, one of the Mayflower Pilgrims, was married, and had — JosErH Warren, who was married and had — Mercy Warren, who married Major John Bradford, grandson of Major William Bradford [-4], and had — Mercy Bradford, who married Jonathan Freeman. (See Freeman Family.) Warren Arms — Gules a lion rampant, argent, a chief chequy or and azure; crest, out of a ducal coronot a demi-eagle displayed; motto, Pro patri a mori. BRADFORD FAMILY. 4. Major William Bradford. Colonial Governor, was born in Austerfield, Yorkshire, England, March, 1590, and died in Plymouth, Mass.. May 9, 1657. From early childhood he was religiously inclined, and at an early age joined the Puritan Congregation at Scrcoby Manor. Persecution arose in Notting- hamshire, and the Puritans, or Separatists, emigrated to Holland as they could find opportunity. After imprisonment and delay, Bradford and his companions reached Amsterdam in 1608, and joined the Colony there, which in 1C09 removed to Leyden, and in 1620 to America. A patent was obtained for the settlement from the New England Council in 1629. It was a grant cf the Plymouth plantation to William Bradford, his heirs, associates, etc. In 1640 he made over the property to the body of colonists, reserving for himself no more than one settler's share. His leisure was largely spent in writing, and after his death these interesting manuscripts were published. Among them were the following: "A Diary of Occurrences" (relating the history of the colony during the first year, and written with the help of Edward Winslow) ; " Some Observations of God's Merciful Dealings with Us in This Wilderness ; " "A Word to Plymouth ; " " Memoir of Elder Brewster," and "History of Plymouth Plantation." (American Supp., Enc. Brit., p. 543.) Major William Bradford became the second Governor of the Colony (April 21, 1621), succeeding John Carver. While in Leyden he mar- ried (November 20, 1613) Dorothea May, by whom he had one son, John, born before the emigration, who was in Duxbury in 1645, and in 1652 was a deputy to the General Court. William Bradford's wife, Dorothy, was drowned in Plymouth Bay, December 7, 1620. On August 14, 1623, he mar- ried Alice Carpenter (who came over in the Anne, and died March 26, 1670), widow of Edward Southworth. by whom he had — Major William Bradford (born June 17, 1624; died July 20, 1704), who married Alice, daughter of Thomas Richards of Weymouth (she died December 12, 1671, aged 44 years). He married, secondly, the Widow Wiswall, and, thirdly. Mr?. Mary Holmes (nee Atwood), who died January 6, 1703 William Bradford was Lieutenant-Governor of Plymouth. By his first wife. Alice, he had — Major John Bradford (1655-1756). first representative of Plymouth to the General Court, who married Mercy Warren, granddaughter of Richard Warren (3), by whom he had — Mercy Bradford, who married Jonathan Freeman, grandson of Edmund Freeman (7). (See Freeman Family.) Mayflower Descent. 347 COOK FAMILY. 5. Francis Cook 1 came over in the Mayflozver. His wife was Esther . by whom he had. with other children. — Mary Cook (born, 1626; died March 21, 1715), who married (December 26, 1645) Lieutenant John Thompson (born, 1606; died, 1696), who came to Plymouth in 1621 ; settled at Halifax, 1673 ! was f° r several years delegate to the Massachusetts General Court. They had — Jacob Thompson (born, 1662; died, 1740), who married Abigail Wads- worth, daughter of Captain Samuel Wadsworth. They had — John Thompson (born, 1700; died, 1790), who married Joanna Adams, and had — Joanna Adams Thompson, who married Freeman Waterman. (See Waterman Family.) WATERMAN FAMILY. Tradition asserts that this family is of Welsh descent, and was an ancient family of some military note. Like most of the families of that time, it was endowed with a coat of arms. This bears the motto, " Mare Ditat," meaning " The Sea Enriches," referring probably to the avocation of one Thomas, who finally came to bear the second name of Waterman, possibly because he had some commission in the navy, and his descendants were known by the same surname. Thomas Waterman left Wales and settled in Norwich, England, near the close of the sixteenth century or early part of the seven- teenth. From him is supposed to have descended — 6. Robert Waterman (died, 1655), who was in Plymouth as early as 1635. He married Elizabeth Bourns, by whom he had — John Waterman (born. 1642; died, 1718), who was one of the first two deacons of the church in Plympton. He married Anna, daughter of Samuel Sturtevant of Leyden, who had followed the Puritans to America, and had — Robert Waterman, who married Mary, daughter of Rev. Isaac Cushman, and had — Thomas Waterman (born, 1707; died, 1789), who married Mercy, daughter of Jonathan Freeman, by whom he had — Freeman Waterman (born 1748: died, 1833), who was a member of the Massachusetts Convention and voted for the Federal Constitution. He married Joanna, daughter of John Thompson, and had — Priscilla Waterman (born, 1782: died, 1S60), who married Hon. Josiah Marshall. (See Marshall Family.) Waterman Arms — Barry of six argent and gules, three crescents two and one, counterchanged ; crest, a lion rampant ; motto, Mare ditat. 1 Savage says: " Francis Cook came over in the Mayflower, with one child, John. His wife, Esther and other children, Jacob, Jane and Esther, came over in the Anne in 1623, so that he counted six shares in the division of lands in 1624. In 1626 Alary, who married Lieutenant John Thompson, was born, and he (Francis) had seven shares at the division of cattle. Francis Cook was called by Bradford, " a very old man (in 1650) who saw his children's children have children. He married, in Holland, a native of The Netherlands, of the Walloon church; was one of the first purchasers of Dartmouth. 1652, and of Middleborough, 1662; he died April 7. 1693. 348 Rossi a n a. FREEMAN FAMILY. 7. Edmund Freeman (1590-1682), of Devonshire, England, was early at Plymouth ; he was married and had — Deacon Thomas Freeman, who was married, and had — Jonathan Freeman of Harwich. Mass., who married Mercy, daughter of Major John Bradford, and had — Mercy Freeman, who married Thomas Waterman. (See Waterman Family.) Freeman Arms — Azure three lozenges or; crest, a demi-lion rampant gules, holding in the paws a lozenge or ; motto, Liber et audax. MARSHALL FAMILY. 8. Thomas Marshall, who came from England about 1634, was descended from Thomas Marshall, one of Cromwell's soldiers, noted for his good services at the battle of Naseby, for which he was made a captain ; from Naseby he went to Leicester, and thence to Marston Moor. Thomas Marshall (1634) was captain of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Com- pany in 1640; was admitted freeman in 1641, and was representative to the General Court for six years. He died December 23, 1689. He had — John Marshall (Sergeant), of Billerica. Mass. (born, 1632; died, 1702), who married Mary, daughter of Thomas Burrage of Charlestown, and had John Marshall (born, 1671 ; died, 1714), who married Eunice, daugh- ter of John Rogers (1641-1675), and had — Isaac Marshall (born, 1712; died, 1797), who was a Selectman in 1750. He married Phebe. daughter of Andrew Richardson, and had — Isaac Marshall (born. 1737; died, 1813), who served as a lieuten- ant in the Revolutionary army. He married Abigail, daughter of Samuel Brown, and had — Hon. Jostah Marshall (born 1773; died 1841), who married Priscilla, daughter of Freeman Waterman, of Halifax. (See chart of Marshall Family.) Marshall Arms — Sable three bars argent, a canton or; crest, out of a ducal coronet a stag's head all or. DESCENT FROM HON. JOSIAH MARSHALL HON. JOSIAH MARSHAIvL,=Priscilla Waterman Sabina Josiah T. b: 1801 b: 1803 d: 1803 d: 1876 Almira b: 1805 d: 1863 :Rev. Dr. Alva Woods b: Aug. 11 1794 Pres. of the Univ. of Kentucky and the Univ. of Alabama Emily= b: 1807 d: 1836 William Foster Otis Son of Hon. Harrison Gray Otis Marshall = Anne Geo. Alleyne Emily— Samuel Brown Francis dau. of Gov. John Brown Francis b: 183.i d: 18 18-!) M. Eliot LL.D. Pres. of Trinity College Mary Alleyne=Alexander H. Stevens of N. Y. son of Stevens and grandson of Gen. Stevens Hon. John Abbie=Samuel A. Carter Abbot Brown of Boston, son of Judge Abbot William Emily M. F. Otis Eben Fanny A. I,adenburg=Emily Mary E. Priscilla=Hon. John M. Henry Marian=John Geo. Charlotte=Com. Horatio b: 1808 Read b:1812 Holbrooke b: 1819 Bridge d: 1841 U. S. N. Gen. John Meredith=Delphine Emily M. Stephen Geo. Otis Read U. S. Minister to Greece S. A., M. R. I. A. K. G. C, O. R. etc., etc., etc. Marik dau. of Harmon Pumpelly Pres. Albany Savings Bank, etc. M. A. Professor of L,atin in Trinity College Hartford, Conn. Harmon P. Emily=F. A. Stout John Marie b: July 13, Meredith of N. Y. Meredith Meredith 1860, b: 1863 b: January, b: in Paris, F. R. G. S. 18G9 France, Pres. of the May, 1873 Y. M. A. of Albany PEDIGREE OF BRADFORD OF BRADFORD. County of Northumberland. THE family of Governor William Bradford (1589-1657) being connected by direct line, through the Hon. Josiah Marshall, of Boston, with the family of General John Meredith Read, the pedigree of the Bradford family prior to the colonial governor has been deemed of sufficient interest to add to this volume. The appended pedigree is from the Genealogist, first series, vol. 5, page 293 : Paragraph I. Avenel de Bradford was feoffed by Henry I. of Bradford, County Northumberland, which he held of the King in capite and per baroniam. This appears from the Testa de Neville in a notice of an Alex- ander de Bradeford some reigns later (vide, Record Commission Publications, P- 393)» where it is stated that the latter held Bradford in capite by Knight's Service, as did all his ancestors since the reign of the first Henry (1100-1135), who feoffed Avenel de Bradeforde, the ancestor of this Alexander. In another part of this record, Bradford, held by the above Alexander de Bradeforde, is called a barony. From the name, Avenel, it is evident that the above Avenel came from the Norman Avenels of the Biarz, as in the early feudal ages the patronymic of a great family was never taken as a baptismal name. He must, therefore, have been an Avenel who, with his descendants, derived the name of Bradford from the place in Northumberland. The Avenels of the Biarz are mentioned by Mr. Plandie in his work, " The Conqueror and His Companions," and he gives Vincent de Beauvais, an historian of the thirteenth century, as his authority for stating that Harold Avenel, who was a kinsman of Rollo, first Duke of Normandy, landed with him in Normandy in 910, and in 913, when Rollo became Duke, Harold acquired the Lordship of Biarz. His descendant, William Avenel, accom- panied Duke William to England in 1066 and was distinguished at Senlae (incorrectly, Hastings). His grandson, — Avenel, was feoffed of Brad- ford by Henry I., and his grandson — Paragraph II. Robert de Bradeforde (temp. Henry II.) is returned by the Sheriff of Northumberland (14 Henry II.) [1167] as among the Barons who did not send on charters of respect to the tenements for the aid of the marriage of Maude, daughter of the King. (Vide Magna Rotutis Pipcc, 14 Henry II.) His son — Paragraph III. Alexander de Bradeford pays Scutage of XLs. in 7th Richard I. (1195) for two knight's fees (a piece of land yielding an annual income of £40) and in order to avoid crossing the sea in the second army 3^o Rossiana. to Normandy. (Vide M. R. P. 7th Rich. I.) He is again mentioned in the M. R. P., 9th John (1207). His son and heir — Paragraph IV. Alexander de Bradeforde is mentioned in M. R. P., 20th Henry III. (1235), as paying 100s. for his relief. In this same year the King accepts his homage and gives him livery of his inheritance of all his father's lands. (Vide Excerpta et Rotutis Finium [Roberts], vol. 1, p. 307.) In the inquisition post mortem on his estate (No. 238, 29th Henry III.) [1244] it is stated that he was hereditary keeper of Bamborough Castle at the time of his death, and his widow, Ada, is mentioned, and Sybilla de Bradeforde was his daughter and heir, aged nine years. (Excerpta et Rotutis Finium [Roberts], vol. 1, p. 433.) H ; s brother — Paragraph V. Johannes de Bradeforde, called " uncle " of Sybilla, (2,2, Henry III.) [1248I ( E. et R. F. [R.], vol. 11. p. 13), paid homage to the King as nearest heir and relation to Sybilla, and had livery of all her lands as her guardian. His inquisition post portem (50 Henry III.) [1265] states that his son and heir — Paragraph VI. Alexander de Bradeforde was 19 years old, first son (50 Henry III.) [1265]. This Alexander pays homage to the King (52 Henry III.) [1267], as son and heir of Alexander, being then of full age, and held Bradford in capite per baroniam. and was also hereditary keeper of Bamborough Castle, and attended Edward I. into Wales, forty days. He was also on the roll of feudal barons under Humphrey de Bohun, Earl of Essex and Hereford, at the Mu and had — 1. Richard, mentioned in the will of his maternal uncle Robert Wright; had issue — 1. John; married June 10, 1679, Mary Danbie, and had — 1. Sara, baptized January 23, 1680. 2. William, baptized April 29, 1683. 2. Mary, under age in 1609. 3. Elizabeth, under age in 1609. 4. Margaret, under age in 1609. 4. Elizabeth, baptized July 31, 1570; married, January 20, 1585. Joseph Hill. Paragraph XX. William Bradford (3d) of Austerfield, born, 1557; mar- ried, 1584, Alice, daughter of John Hanson, and died before his father in 1591 ; buried July 15. Had issue — 1. Margaret, baptized 8 March 1585, d. y. 2. Alice, baptized 30 October 1587, d. y. 3. William. (See No. 21.) Paragraph XXI. William Bradforth (4th) of Austerfield, was baptized March 19, 1589. Brought up by his uncle Robert. In 1609 he joined the Pil- grims in Leyden and married there 20 Nov., 1613, Dorothea May. They came over in the Mayflower in 1620, and Dorothea was drowned in -Plymouth Bay, Dec. 7, 1620. Had one son — 1. John, born 1614: married Martha Bourne but dep. 1678. April 21, 1621, Mr. Bradford was elected Governor in place of John Carver, and Aug. 14, 1623, he married Alice Carpenter, widow of Edward Southworth. The Governor died May 9, 1657. Mrs. Bradford died 26 March 1670. They had — 1. William, born 17 June 1624; died July 20, 1704. He was Lieutenant-Governor of Plymouth; married, first, Alice daughter of Thomas Richards; she died Dec. 12, 1671, 356 Rossiana. aged 44; married, secondly, the widow Wiswall ; mar- ried, thirdly, Mrs. Mary Ho'mes ncc Atwood, who died 6 January, 1713. 2. Mercy, born 1627, married Benj. Vermayes. 3. Joseph, born 1630, married May 22d, 1664, Jael, daughter of Rev. Peter Hobart; she died in 1730, aged 88; either this Joseph or his son moved to Connecticut; date of death not known. Avenel Sires de Biard or Es Biard. (From "Roll of Battle Abbey," by the Duchess, of Cleveland, vol. Ill, p. 353.) Biarz, now Les Biards, is in the Canton of Isigny, Arrondissement of Mortaine, Normandy, about 17 miles west by north of Bayeux. And the Avenels were Hereditary Seneschals of the Counts of Mortaine. They wire descended from Harold Avenel, called Harold the Dane, a kinsman of Rollo. His descendant, Hugh Avenel of the Biarz, in 1030 granted the Church of Ste Marie de Bleme to Marmontier Abbey, with the consent of his son and heir Herve de Avenel de Biarz, whose son and heir in 1067 was Ligembcrt Avenel de Es Biarz, and his son " Osmellinus qui cognominahatur Avenellus," is mentioned in a charter of Robert de Say as early as 1060. This latter Avenel had six sons, the eldest of which, William de Avenel de Es Biarz, came to England in the train of the Count of Mortaine and fought at Leulae, but appears to have returned to Normandy. His sons were William Avenel, called " Avenel de Haddon " on account of being feoffed by Henry I of the great estate of Haddon in Derbyshire, and Robert Avenel, called "Avenelde Bradford " for the same reason in Northumberland. For Robert's line see page 1 of the Bradford Record : William Avenel of Haddon was the grandfather of Robert Avenel of Haddon, who in 1169 was witness to a donation to Lenton Priory and to the foundation charter of Welbeck Abbey. He was also a witness, as Robert Avenel de Biarz, to a charter granted to the Nuns at Mouton by the Count of Mortaine, dated at Tinchebray in 1 158. This line ended in an heiress, Alice Avenel, daughter of William Avenel, " King of the Peak " in Derbyshire, with Mont Meland, Gariz, Anvers, Rove- strat, etc., in Normandy, who married William de Vernon, youngest son of Warnre de Vernon, Fourth Feudal Baron of Shipbrooke, and carried Had- don into the Vernon Family. Haddon Hall has been a famous place for centuries. From younger sons of the First William Avenel of Haddon descended the Avenels of Bedford, Gloucester, Cambridge, Devon, Leicester, and the famous Scotch Line of Avenel, Lords of Eskdale in Mid-Lothian. PUMPELLY FAMILY. THE Pumpelly family, mentioned in the Read pedigree, is of interest. The first of the name in this country was Jean Pompili, whose family came from Avignon and whose ancestors came there from Spoletto, Italy, in the train of Cardinal Abornoz. His son, Jean Pompili, was a sea captain at Plymouth and was knocked overboard by a boom and drowned a short time before the birth of his son, John Pumpely or Pompilie. His wife, who was a Miss Monroe, married again, a Rev. Mr. Glover. John Pumpely ran away from home at fifteen years. 1757, and enlisted in Captain John Lor- ing's company of His Majesty's foot as a drummer boy; he made the whole campaign of the French and Indian war. married Miss Eppen Hillebranz Mei- jer, a lady by birth, of Dutch extraction. He was made a sergeant for distin- guished bravery, carrying despatches to Fort William Henry through a hostile country. He was one of the Crown Point expedition, at one time a member of Rodgers' Rangers and a messmate and friend of Daniel Webster's father. He was a commissary under General Putnam at the time of the battle of Saratoga. He married secondly Hannah, daughter of Captain Samuel Bushnell, of Salisbury, Conn. He was superintendent of the Connecticut Iron Mine and furnace for casting cannon. He removed, in 1803, with his family to Broome county, New York, near Owego, where his son, Hon. James Pumpelly, had settled and had become a wealthy man. The latter part of his life he was a surveyor and farmer. After leaving the army for a time he was an architect. He died in 1819, aet. 92 years. He had by his first wife the following children: Bennett, Barnet, Elizabeth, John, Eppen and Samuel, and by his second wife he had James, Charles, Jerusha, Maria, Harriet, William and Harmon. The sons by his second wife, James, Charles, William and Harmon became very rich men for their day. Their fortunes were made very early in the 19th century, and they became conspicuous for their hospitality, ability and kindliness. All of them married into old families. In Tioga county the Pumpelly family is by far the most prominent of the many county families of the local gentry. Descent of the Pumpelly Family from John Pumpelly. The annexed chart, containing the descent of the Pumpelly family from John Pumpely, of Connecticut, was prepared from a family tree drawn up by John H. Pumpelly, Esq., from one made by the author in the year 1878-9, under the direction of Harmon Pumpelly, Esq., President of the Albany Savings Bank. The Pumpelly pedigree last mentioned contained much matter not in the original tree, and which was secured by Mr. Pumpelly and myself after much writing and careful work. In the following narrative reference is had to the numbers used in the accompanying chart : 358 Rossiana. John Pl'MPELY was a soldier in the French and Indian wars and Com- missary in the American Revolution. He died in 1819, at 92 years. He married first, Eppen Hillebranz Meijer, by whom he had — 1. Bennett, who married E. Merrill, and had — (1.) Bennet. (2.) Barnard. (3) Elizabeth. ( + ) Allen. (5-) John. (6.) Daniel, died young (7-) George, died young. (S.) Oreal, died young. 2. Barnet, w ho served throughout the Revolution. 3. Elizabeth, died voting. 4. John, who married Mary French, and had — (i.) Mary, died voting. (2.) Charlotte. <3-> Celia, died young. (4.) Elizabeth. (5.) Lamina. (6.) John. (/•) Harriet. (8.) Cyrus. (9-) Sumner. (10.) Mary. (11.) Marcus. 5. Eppen (it Appy), married Seth Samson, and had- — (1.) Abel. (2.) John. (3.) Isaiah. (4.) Seth. (5.) Elizabeth. (6) Joseph. (7.) Daniel. (8.) Harriet. (9.) George. «. Samuel married Sarah True, and had — (I.) Sarah. U) Eppen. (3) Rhoda Merrill. (4.) Allura Susana. (5.) Eppen, or Appy, 2d (Mrs. Merrill). (6.) Samuel Barnard, died unmarried. (7.) Harriet. (S.) George, died young. (9-) John, came to Owego in 1844. (10.) Josiah Bonne}'. (11.) Benjamin. ( 12.) Solon Dexter, died unmarried. "SB-? ' PJ I!!1 •sauiBf IS 'tobhila Iz •£>£)m£) qiavq— A' •'"IS? ""(Slfn. 5 -any 'ssna -a^uanajBi^ Xjbw i(S) l(Z) |(T) Ihob; 1(1 I •piBdaqg Bzijg •japo^al jBimajaf jaBqdBy -aniqdasof 1(9) |(*) •e^auio^uv Anew l(S) •shtih/yv 'H ahvjv — aNg •pjBAvpg sajjBqo I f 1 S I Z |i I •sauiBf nqof -pjBAipa I XI | 01 •so[JBqo 16 d jCJBJV "SSUIBf I 18 |J •saaag naNay^; c ATiaawr •uossiOBf }J00AasuBo ;jnet •Xeajpoo nqof 1(1) •spijjajV eiapy -auiqdasof l(Z) ' 1(1) •EII9JS \(Z) •g seat 1(1 ■aaS •sa^Bi CHART OF THE DESCENT OF THE PUMPELLY FAMILY JOHN PUMPELY 05 CONNECTICUT (Prepared by MAJOR HAKMi PUMPELLY READ, l'JOT) JOHN PUMPELY >pi;n Hillebranz Meijer. .! (7)| | I) OH (2|| (3)| (1)( (5)| JJ| (7)| (8)| (S)| <3)i (4)1 (5>i fen ( : m\ (9)i (ToTi Rhoda AJIurn Rppvn or Samuel rlet George. John. Joslah Merrill. Suraua, Appy, 2(1. Barnard. Bonney. JOHN PUMPELY=/ iA nnah Bushnell Benjamin. Solon I HON. JAMES PUMPBLLY—Mrs. Mary Tinkham. >sephlne. Lau renco . a HON. CHARLES PUMPELLY Frances Avery. John CbarlM. Mary Ann. Susan 1 0«,r«TD.co« °kb (211 CbulM. Albert. I - p ,,„..„-, (iJrr. jj.1.. . .r„h. Dr. KrogsWdt. ^ ^^ oson Hon T&eo. FrellnihuT" Hon. John M. F ■*T"" m. w »«"w» r«nclH Henry. Augusta Abeel JoSTpucpe, ,.m... || (2 I (3M 1 — w. ( Milr» SolLh P-Mdirh-k B-raneM 1 s Avery Virginia 'urupelly. Joaephlm George. Charles. Mary. Joseph. JuTla John ^Jory 3 JERUSHA PUMPELLY 4 MARIA PUMPELLY -Abner Beers. 5 WILLIAM PUMPELLY=lst— Sarah Emily Tinkham |.=s2nd— Mary H. Weli.es. •Jaanads spjUMpg pj jnojs V sioubjji isx snBpnonv.P hojjbo ep e^uanSJ^iM |(Z) •Xuaduinj uouij'bh 1(1) 'PP!H satnBf •Bqsruep auiiapy II .siizAllHdlMnd NOMtfVH L |(Z) KT) \nqof •Jfi 19IJJBH I S •auiiama a utunsfuag IT IlHdPiad XHIHUVH 9 i d pqia mipa xj«im ►) l(S) |(Z) l(T) •Bnipay Xiiraa •«U8;sa Xjbjaj l(z') Id) •uosdm9jpi< jooa nay Xjbw 'Weld UBraqonjH ureniTM. EjM uBsng JiOBquanoH uqof l(Z) l(T) •xpraa q«j^s 1 1 P98M •sBraoqx ■ iqof -saouBJa 'ianqv "Brauia 'P^a 113 ' J CI 'd uouubh I 9 IS I * IS I Z I T iiiadwnd vravw t anssi on ) Ld vHsmiHf e uosuqof Xjbjaj 1(1) Bad ) Pit in pel I y Family. 359 DESCENDANTS OF JAMES PUMPELLY. John Pumpelly married, secondly. Hannah Bushnell, daughter of Captain Samuel Bushnell, of Salisbury, Conn. They had — 1. Hon. James Pumpelly, born in Salisbury, Conn., 1775; died in Owego, N. Y., October 4, 1845. He was a member of the New York State Assembly in 1810, was President of the Board of Trustees of Owego, and first President of the Owego Bridge Co. He married Mrs. Mary Tinkham (born in Stockbridge, Mass.. May 11, 1777; died at Owego, June 4, i848),widoy of Dr. Samuel Tirikham and daughter of Colonel David Pixley, of the Revolution, deceased. They had — 1. George James (born December 11, 1805; married Susan Isabella Pumpelly, April 24, 1832; died May 9, 1873). She died July 30, 1864. They had — 1. James Kent (born April 25, 1833) married Elizabeth C. Beal, by whom he had — (1.) George James, born June 25, 1864; died April 24, 1873. 2. Charles Frederick (born May 9, 1835). 3. Josiah Collins (born August 16, 1839) married Mrs Winslow. 4. George Brinckerhoff (born July 27, 1842) married , and had — (1.) William. (2.) George. (3.) Frederick Collins. 5. Alary Susan (born, February 1, 1845) married A. Wordsworth Thompson. 2. Lydia Abbey (born February 13, 1808), married Dr. Ezekiel Love joy. They had — 1. James, married Powell, and had — (1.) Lydia A. (2.) Anna Fredericka, who married Dr. Rob- ert Watts Eastman. 2. Frederick. 3. Frederick Henry (born January 13, 1810), married Sarah Ann Hewitt, January 5, 1847; died May 15. 1867). She died July 27. 1881. They had — 1. James Frederick (born November 2, 1847), married Maria Louisa Field, October 12, 1869. They had — (1.) Mary Josephine (born February 27, 1871). (2.) Laurence (born July 3, 1881). 2. Fredericka H. (born May 10, 1849), married first, Edward J. Raymond, January 1, 1871 (he died October 11, 1883), and. secondly, Frank Wooster Elwood, April 7, 1885. By her first husband she had — (1.) Victoria R. (born July 28, 1872). 360 Rossi a ii a. 3. Gurdon H. (born June 30, 1851), married Kismissia B. Armstrong, December 24, 1879. They had — (1.) Frederick Armstrong (born January 28, 1887). 4. Mary Eliza (born February 15, 1855; died January 14, 1864). 5. Sarah Antoinette (born January 6, 1861), married A. Ericsson Perkins, August 24, 1884. They had — (1.) Harold A. (2.) Spencer A. DESCENDANTS OF CHARLES PUMPELLY. 2. Hon. Charles Pumpelly (born in Salisbury, Conn., 1776) came to Owego, N. Y., with his father in 1803. He was member from Broome County in the Constitutional Convention of 1S21 ; member of the New York State Assembly in 1825 ; died in Owego in 1855. He married Frances Avery (born January 9, 1775) on September 2, 1803. They had — 1. John Charles (born October 28, 1804; died, unmarried March 9, 1830). 2. Mary Ann (born December 31, 1806), married George Bacon. She died February 6, 1845. They had — (1.) Charles, who married ■ — , and had — (1.) Mary. (2.) Albert, married , and had — (1.) Jessie, married Dr. Krogstadt. (3.) Frances, married Ransom, and had — (I.) Sarah. 3. Susan Isabella (born April 24, 1809), married her cousin, George James Pumpelly. She died July 30, 1864. 4. Frances Eliza (born March 9, 181 1), married Hon. Joseph Solace Bosworth. She died March 30, 1879. They had — (1.) Frances Avery Virginia. (2.) Nathaniel Pumpelly. (3-) Josephine, married General Charles Yates. They had — (1.) Frances B. (2.) Stella, married Geurt Gansevoort Jackson. (4.) Stella, married George Carleton See. They had — (1.) Josephine. (2.) Adele Merrick. (5.) George. (6.) Charles, married Julia Beekman. (7.) Mary, married John Saxe. They had — (1.) John Godfrey. (8.) Joseph, married Mary Wray. Pumpelly Family 361 (9.) Frederick. (10.) Francis Howard. 5. Catherine Ann (born February 28, 1813), married Hon. John Mason Parker. She died December 30, 1845. 6. Harriet Amelia (born June 28, 1815), married Hon, Theo- dore Frelinghuysen. She died February 6, 1876, without issue. 7. Stella Avery (born September 10, 1817), married Hon. John M. Parker. They had — (1.) Charles Edward, married Mary Farrington. (2.) Francis Henry who married Augusta Abeel, and had one daughter. (3) John Pumpelly. (4.) Norman. 8. Caroline Augusta (born February 6, 1820). 9. James (born September 23, 1822; died December 3, 1823). 10. Lydia Abbey (born June 26, 1827), married Hon. James Forsyth, who died in 1886. She died August 12, 1876. They had — (1.) James. Jerusha Pumpelly, who died without issue. DESCENDANTS OF MARIA PUMPELLY. Maria Pumpelly (born, 1786; died, 1855), married Abner Beers, farmer at Owego, Tioga County, N. Y. They had — 1. Harmon P. (born 1804; died 1844). Dr. Eli (born 1806; died, 1883). He had one daughter and two sons. David (born, 1808), married Miss Thomas. They had a daughter and a son. Emma (died in infancy). Abner (born, 181 1; died, 1881) was a planter in Mississippi before the War of the Rebellion. He had a daughter. Frances (born, 1813), married Weed. They had a daughter. John James (born, 1814; died about 1829). Mary P. (born in 1818), married E. McNeil, and lives (1878) in Chillicothe, Mo. They had — (1.) Frederika M. (born, March, 1839; died, Novem- ber, 1859). (2.) James Frederick (born, February, 1841 ; died, 1864, in the army of the Union). (3.) Ada A. (born, August, 1843; died, November, 1879). (4.) Charles Edward (born, April, 1854). 9. Charles (born, 1819) ; married Ganung. No issue. 10. Edward (born, 1829; died, 1865). 11. John James (born, 1831 ; died, 1882) was married. 362 Rossi ana. DESCENDANTS OF WILLIAM PUMPELLY. 5. William Pumpelly was born in Salisbury, Conn., June 17, 1788; died at Owego, N. Y., 1876. He was a surveyor, merchant, and President of tbe Bank of Owego. He came to Owego in 1803 with his father. He married, first, Sarah Emily Tinkham (died, 1822), daughter of Dr. Samuel and Mary Tinkham (see James Pumpelly (1) above). They had — ■ (1.) Sarah Emily (born, February 25, 1815), married (Sep- tember 17, 1839) William Hinchman Piatt (born, September 23, 1815 ; died, February 28, 1883). She died of pneumonia, in New York, January 20, 1856. They had — (1.) Mary Johnson (born, August 27, 1840. at Owego, N. Y. ; died, at Kingston, N. Y., August 22, i860, unmarried). (2.) Stella Emily (born in New York. July 16, 1853). married P. T. Kempson, June 16, 1881. They had — (1.) Mary Estella. (2.) Emily Redina. William Pumpelly (5) married, secondly, Mary H. Welles, October 24, 1824. She was the daughter of George Welles, Esq., who was graduated at Vale College, 1779. and was descended from Governor Welles, of Connecticut. Mary Welles was born in Athens, Pa., May 6, 1803; died in Paris, France. December 4, 1879. They had — (1.) John Hollenback (born at Owego, N. Y., August 16, 1826) graduated at Yale College, 1848. He married (February 29. 1868) Mary Ann Foot, daughter of Lyman Foot, surgeon in the U. S. A. She was born September 22, 1832; died. April t. 1877. John Hollenback Pumpelly died at Walton, Mass., December 6, 1907. (2.) Susan Mary (born at Owego). (3.) Marie Antoinette (born, March 3, 1832, at Owego), married Jeremiah Loder, son of Benjamin Loder, who was President, in 1848. of the New York and Erie Railroad, and one of the most efficient promoters of that enterprise. They had — (1.) Mary. (2.) Edith (born, September, 1857). (3.) Ethel P. (born, May 29, 1865). (4.) Raoul (born June 24, 1867). (4.) Josephine (born at Owego). (5.) Raphael (born at Owego, September 8, 1837) was, from 1854 to i860, pursuing studies in Europe ; from i860 to 1865 was engaged in Arizona, Japan and China ; was sometime Professor at Harvard University. He married Eliza Shepard. They had — (1.) Mary Marguerite (born August 6, 1873). Piimpclly Family. 363 (2.) Elise (born May 14, 1875). (3.) Anna Pauline (born June 30, 1878). (4) Clarence King (born, May 12, 1879; died, August 12, 1879). (5.) Raphael (born May 23, 1881). DESCENDANTS OF HARRIET PUMPELLY. i. Harriet Pumpelly (born, 1791) married, March 3, 1809, David Quigg (born, June 2, 1781 ; died, December 17, 1862), merchant in Ithaca, N. Y. She died August 25, 1863. They had — (1.) Benjamin D. (born, May 18, 1812; died, August 28, 1865, unmarried). (2.) Emeline (born March 1, 1815) ; unmarried. (3.) Harriet M. (born, November 18, 1816; died, July 3, 1870, unmarried). (4.) John William (born, June 20, 1819; died, August 28, 1865, unmarried). . (5.) James (born July 29, 1821/, merchant at Ithaca, N. Y. He married, December II, 1848, Julia A. Rose (born September 20, 1821). They had — (1.) William Edward (born, December 5, 1849; died, January 10, 1861). (2.) Harmon Pumpelly (born, January 10, 1853; died, November 2, 1855). (3.) Mary Rose (born March 20, 1856), married, December 29, 1881, Whitney T. Newton, of Denver, Colorado. (6.) Edward (born at Ithaca, January 5, 1824; died, August 15, 1855), married Mary Bouchard. (7.) Helen (born at Ithaca, October 23, 1829), married, Sep- tember 1, 1859, Jefferson Beardsley. DESCENDANTS OF HARMON PUMPELLY. 7. Harmon Pumpelly was born in Salisbury, Conn., August 1, 1795, and died in Albany, N. Y., September 28, 1882. He was President of the Board of Trustees of the village of Owego in 1835, and later moved to Albany, where he became President of the Albany Savings Bank. He married, first, Delphine, daughter of Judge John R. Drake, of Owego, and, secondly, Maria Brinkerhoff. By his first wife, Delphine Drake, Harmon Pumpelly had — (1.) Adeline Jerusha, married James Kidd. (2.) Delphine Marie, married General John Meredith Read, Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Redeemer, United States Minister to Greece, Consul-General to France. They had — (1.) Harmon Pumpelly (born July 13. i860), who resides in Albany. He married Mademoiselle Marguerite de Carron d'Allondans, and has no children. 364 Rossi an a. (2.) Emily Meredith, who married, first, Hon. Fran- cis A. Stout, and, secondly, Edwards Spencer, of Cherington Park, Esquire, England. (3.) John Meredith. Jr., who raised a regiment during the Spanish war, and who married Countess Alix, daughter of Count Amede de Foras, of the Castle of Thuyset. They had — (1.) John Meredith, 4th. (4.) Marie Delphine, who married Count Max de Foras, of the Castle of Thuyset. They had — Hon. Harmon Pumpelly (1795-1882). (1) Countess Huguette. (2) Countess Delphine. (3) Count Joseph. The eldest son of Count Max de Foras, by his first wife Mile, de Chanteau, is Count Amede. THE PUMPELLY ARMS. The following description of the Pumpelly arms appears on the John H. Pumpelly tree. . Argent chausse azure on a pale gules, accosted by two roses in base (on the azure); a fleur-de-lis or; a chief of the last an eagle displayed sable; %>o, 1772 ; d. March 23, 1S26. 5. Moses, b. March 8, 1774. *>• Rachel, b. April 11, 1776. 7. Reuben, b. May 25, 1778; d. March 27, 1818. 8. John R., b. November 28, 1782; d. March 24, 1857. 9. Joshua, b. April 12, 1786. Hon. John R. Drake (8) was one of the earliest settlers in Tioga county, N. Y. ; Member of Congress, 1817-19; elected Judge of Tioga county, 1833; Member of Assembly, 1834; Master of lodge of Free Masons, and was one of the best educated, most learned per,. mis in the county. He married (September 4, 1803, at Catskill, N. Y.) Jerusha (b. July 6, 1780), daughter of Joseph Roberts, M. D. (b. 1755; J November 6, 1813, at Hudson, N. Y.) and Anne Leaming his wife (h. 1748; d. June 15, 1X15. at Oswego). The Drake Family 367 latter was the daughter of Matthias (d. September, 1789, at Farmington, aged 72) and Phylathea Learning (d. December 7, 1799, at Bristol, aged 63.) Hon. John R. Drake had the following children: 1. Harriet Gould (born Aug. 22, 1805, at Newburgh; died Sept. 12, 1902, at Owego). Married (July 7, 1825) David Pixley Tinkham (died Aug. 10, 1836, at Owego). 2. Adeline Beebe (born May 5, 1808, at Newburgh; died March 21, 1888). Married (August 12. 1834) Isaac Bradford Gere (died February 16, i860, at Owego). 3. Delphine (born April 11, 1811, at Owego; died February 27, 1839). Married (November 16, 1830) Harmon Pumpelly (died Septem- ber 28, 1882, at Albany). 4. Theodore (born January 16, 1814, at Owego; died August 25, 1888, at Owego). Unmarried. 5. Charlotte Marsh (born November 5, 1816, at Owego; died Septem- ber 26, 1898). Married (July 17, 1837) Edward Raynsford (died November 27, 1881). THE DRAKE ARMS. The arms of Rev. Reuben Drake's family were : Argent, a wivern with wings displayed sable. Drago the Saxon was proprietor of Honiton before the Norman conquest. Gower mentions Dragons, or, as he calls them. Fire Drakes. Guillim, in his " Display of Heral- dry," at page 262, says : He beareth argent a wivern, his wings displaid, and taile nowed, gules, by the name of Drakes.* This word nowed is as much to say in Latine as Fodatus. This Taile is said to be nowed because it is intricately knotted with divers infoldings, after the man- ner of a Frette. Like as a Griffon doth participate of a Fowle and a Beast, as aforesaid, so doth the Wiverne partake of a Fowle in the wings and legs, and with a snake, ad- der or such other serpents (as are not of Gressible Kinde, but glide along upon their Belly), and doth resemble a serpent in Taile. On page 117 of the same work is to be found the following : The field is diamond, a fess wavy be- tween the two Pole stars, Arcticke and Antarctick, pearl. Such was the worth of this most generous and re- nowned Knight, Sir Francis Drake, sometime of Plimmouth, as that his merits doe require that his coate- armour should be expressed in that selected manner of Blazoning that is fitting to noble personages, in respect of his noble courage and high attempts achieved, whereby he merited to be reckoned the honour of our nation and of navall profession, inasmuch as hee, cutting thorow the Magellanike Straits, Anno Domini 1577, within the com- vum£/ * The name is spelled Drake in the index; the final error. here being probably a printers 368 Rossictna. passe of three years he encompassed the whole world ; whereof his ship laid up in Doeke neere Detford will long remaine as" a most worthy monument. Of these his travels a Poet hath thus sung: Drake, perrerati novit quern terminus orbis Quemq : Semel Mundi vidit uterq: Polus, si taceant homines, facient te Syder a notum. Sol nescit comitis non memor esse sui. The world survaied bounds, brave Drake, on thee did gaze; Both the North and Southern Poles have seen thy manly face. If thankelesse men conceale, thy praise the stars will blaze — The Sunne his fellow-traveler's worth will duly grace. It will thus be seen that Sir Francis Drake received an entirely new coat-of-arms unlike those of his ancestors. In the first drawing up of the design, the crest, a ship on a globe drawn by a cable in the hand of Provi- dence, has, on the deck of the ship, the ancient wivern of the family, but in the subsequent grant this was eliminated, leaving nothing of the original arms of his family. In the arms of the Owego branch of the family the wivern is black, which is a very old way of differentiating arms used by a younger branch, and this shows these arms to have been in constant early use in America and taken from some ancient seal or piece of silver brought over to the new country, and not taken from some work on heraldry. There are many families in England that possess two or three coats-of- arms. having received several grants. Thus. Sir John Read of Brocket Hall, besides his family arms of gules a saltire between four garbs or, was granted, with the baronetcy, the following coat: "Azure a griffon segreant or rampant or." " This coat also belonged to Richard Read of Whittlesey in the Isle of Ely, in the county of Cambridge, esquire, aged 45, anno 1684. He was one of His Majesty's Justices of the Peace for the said Island." JUDGE JOHN R. DRAKE. The following are extracts from a sketch of the career of Judge John R. Drake which was published in the Oswego Gazette, in February, 1908: John R. Drake was born Nov. 28, 1782, at Pleasant Valley. In early life he was a clerk in the store of Judge Stanley at Catskill. While thus employed he was sent to Painted Post. N. Y.. to do some collecting. When he reached Owego he stopped at the old tavern which stood at the northwest corner of Front and Church streets. When he started on his way from Owego some one purposely misdirected him, so that instead of crossing the Owego creek and going westward, he went north toward Ithaca. He soon met some one who informed him of his mistake. It was at this time he first saw the land on the flats, which he afterward induced his brother, Reuben Drake, to buy. After Reuben had made the purchase his wife would not come out here into the wilderness to live, and John R. Drake took the property off his hands. This property Judge Drake purchased about the year 1814. It extended from the west line of Evergreen cemetery to the Owego creek. The north boundary was Drake's lane, now Talcott street, and the south boundary was the north line of Elizur Talcott's farm. When Judge Drake came here with his family in October. 1809. he lived below and adjoining where the river bridge now is in Front street in a building which he rented of Dr. Samuel Tinkham as a store and residence. Here he lived until he bought the farm in the north part of the village. On Drake Family. 369 this farm, on the west side of North avenue, midway between where Talcott and Adaline streets now are, was a farm house. This house he enlarged and he lived therein. Later he again enlarged the house and converted it into a tavern for Seth Mosher. After the construction of the New York and Erie Railroad to Owego he still further enlarged it. It was then kept a few years by Judge Drake's son-in-law, A. B. Gere, as a hotel and was known as the Mansion House. Judge Drake, in February, 1829, purchased the house on the south side of Front street, west of Park street, now owned by Mrs. Emily Gere. Judge Drake died in this house March 21, 1857. Judge Drake was in the general mercantile business in the Dr. Tinkham store until 1814. In August of that year he purchased for $1,200 of James Caldwell the lot on the south side of Front street directly opposite Lake street, on which he built a wooden store two stories high. In the rear of this store was a large storehouse with a long dock. Here he stored and loaded into arks for shipment down the river salt, plaster and wheat. This merchandise was shipped on the spring and fall freshets to Wilkesbarre, Columbia and other points on the way to Baltimore. A great amount of lumber, shingles and staves was also shipped in arke and rafts. Judge Drake is said to have had a larger number of arks and rafts on the river every year than any other Owego shipper. He employed men to manu- facture shingles and staves of pine and oak in the forest on lands five miles from Owego on the Montrose turnpike. During the war of 1812 Judge Drake had a contract for making tent pins for the United States government. In front of his store Judge Drake laid the first stone sidewalk ever put down in this village. The stones were quarried in this vicinity. Judge Drake was also the first Owego merchant to introduce lamps in place of candles to light his store at night. He sold everything usually sold in the general country stores of those days except intoxicating liquor. In 1830 he sold that portion of his stock which was of a kind now kept in drug stores to Dr. Jedediah Fay, and not long afterward closed out the rest of his stock of goods and retired from the mercantile business. Judge Drake became the owner of much property in the business part of the village. He built Rollin block, which occupied the northwest corner of Front and Lake streets. In the third story of this block was Concert Hall, where all public entertainments and shows were given. In the fire of Sep- tember, 1849, Judge Drake owned nine stores, all of which were burned, and on which he had only $2,000 insurance. He built and owned the mills on the south side of the river, opposite the Owego creek, which were afterward known as the Hand mills, and which he subsequently sold to James Pumpelly, who was his partner in the lumber manufacturing business. When the New York and Erie Railroad was built to Owego Judge Drake, who was one of the projectors and who had used all his influence to have it built through this village, gave the railroad company nine acres of land, comprising the grounds where the station and railroads yards now are. In 1847, two years previous to the completion of the New York and Erie Railroad to Owego, Judge Drake opened a land office. At about this time he caused a survey and map of this village to be made. This map was litho- graphed in New York and was entitled 'A Map of Drake's Reservation in the Village of Owego, N. Y." The map shows the line of the old Ithaca and Owego Railroad as it extended down through the village into Front street, the proposed line of the New York and Erie Railroad through the then northern part of the village, and the situation of all the residences and stores. Judge Drake's farm on both sides of the railroad was laid out into village lots on this map, with streets, several of which streets were opened after- ward and are now in use. They were generally named in honor of members of his family. Delphine, Charlotte and Adaline streets were opened and still "bear those names. Theodore, Harriet, Jerusha and Arianna streets do not appear on the latest maps. Jerusha street on the Drake reservation map is now known as West avenue. 3/0 Rossi a int. When Judge Drake gave the nine acres of land to the New York and Erie Railroad Company there was some kind of an agreement whereby he was to have had the rent of the dining-room at the station and that all trains were to stop here, but at about this time he was stricken wih paralysis, and the person who attended to this business for him allowed the arrangement to be changed, and he did not receive the benefit of it. It is related of Judge Drake that some time before the old Owego and Ithaca horse railroad was built he was present at a public meeting in this village to consider the question of public improvements. Among other things discussed was a proposed survey for a canal from Ithaca to Owego. At this meeting Judge Drake said that if it was found that the building of a canal would not be a profitable investment, perhaps the line might be used for a railroad. Thereupon an incredulous citizen contemptuously remarked, " What won't the d — d old fool be at next?" Yet the railroad was built. And several years later when the Xew York and Erie Railroad was com- pleted to Owego and the first train came to the station Judge Drake, who was then helpless with paralysis and was sitting in his carriage on the hill above looking at the arrival of the train, the man who made the disparaging remark at the public meeting stood by his side. Judge Drake was prominent in public as well as in business affairs. He was supervisor of the town of Owego in 1813. He was appointed first judge of Broome county April 8. 1815. and served until 1823. He was reappointed first judge of Tioga county March. 27, 1833. and served until April 18, 1838. lie was a member of Congress from 1817 to iKio; member of Assembly in 1N34, and president of Owego village from 1841 to 1845, inclusive. In 1823 lie was one of the three commissioners appointed to supervise the construction of the first Tioga comity court house, built in Owego at the southeast corner of .Main and Court streets. William F. Warner, in his centennial history of Tioga county, writes as follows concerning Judge Drake: "Judge Drake for many years before his death was paralytic, but in earlier years few men surpassed him in vigor of mind and body. He was a keen observer of men and things and a right royal talker. Like Mr. Jonathan Piatt he found in the ordinary affairs of life abundant amusement, and was disposed to make the most and best of everything. Although he may have sometimes held his neighbors up in a somewhat ludicrous view, yet Mr. Drake, though gifted with great powers of sarcasm, generally aimed to be just. * :;: * Judge Drake held a prominent place among the leading men of the county, and had much influence in shaping the public affairs of the village in which he resided, and of tins county as well." VISIT TO THE OLD DRAKE CHURCH. In an interesting letter, dated November 2J, 1886, written to Mrs. James Kidd (nee Pumpelly), of Albany. N. Y., Mrs. Harriet G. Tinkham (born Aug. 22, 1805: died Sept. 12, 1902), eldest daughter of Hon. John R. Drake, of Owego, describes a visit made the previous summer to Plattekill, formerly Pleasant Valley, and to the site of the old church built by her grandfather, Rev. Reuben Drake. Among other things, Mrs. Tinkham says: We went to Pleasant Valley, a lovely place, and rightly named, but now called Plattekill (the vandals!). Visited the cemetery where our grand- parents are buried. My grandfather (your great-grandfather) gave the -round for a cemetery, built a church at ins own expense on a corner of the ground and preached in it until his death. A pleasant country school house stands on a piece of the ground, built entirely from the timbers, boards, etc., of the old church. It made me sad to think my eyes were looking on the very spot where he, the good man, had spent his time for the happiness ofhis neighbors. Sarah went to searching for a spot where she could get a piece of clapboard grandfather's eyes had rested on, and to see her tugging and Drake Family. 371 pulling at it, determined to have a piece of that old church if she pulled the school house down, set us laughing, and all my moralizing went in saying: "Such is life; this is the road to the beginning of another." I gathered some leaves from their graves. The inscriptions are as clear cut and the stones as perfect as if just erected. Inscriptions on the Tombstones. In Memory of Elder Reuben Drake Who departed this life January the 27th, 1793 Aged 47 years. All you that do this tomb view, Remember I was once as you. Prepare to meet thy God and be Laid in the earth along with me. In Memory of Pheise, wife of the late Rev. Reuben Drake, Who departed this life September 3d, 1797. Aged 51 years and six days. Rev. Reuben Drake had at least two brothers (perhaps more) — William and Uriah Drake. Airs. Peck, granddaughter of William, died in Chicago. John Drake, great-grandson of Uriah, I found in Plattekill, where I also found DeWitt Garrison, grandson of Charity, John R. Drake's sister. He had brothers living in Plattekill. Dr. Charles Drake (son of Joseph and grandson of Rev. Reuben) died in Newburgh. His children are : Halleck Drake, of Plainfield, N. J., and Mrs. Cassidy, wife of a New York lawyer. Mrs. Cobb, who lives in Yonkers, is the granddaughter of William Drake (son of Rev. Reuben), who lived near Little Falls on the Mohawk river. Mrs. Townsend, the cousin you have heard me speak of, is Moses Drake's (my father's brother) granddaughter. The children of Moses are: Deborah, Rufus, Nancy, Rachel, Reuben and Catherine — all dead. Mrs. Townsend is the daughter of Nancy. Deborah married her second cousin, Mrs. Peck's brother. Rufus married Mary Ann Barker and had two sons — James Bow- man Drake and John Bowman Drake. This is all I heard about the ancestors, but you are related to a great many very nice Drakes. I would copy our genealogy from the Peerage if I could make up my mind whether we belong to the Drakes of Ash or the family of Sir Francis Drake. John and William are family names of the Drakes of Ash, but I have always heard we were from Sir Francis' family. FAMILY OF CARRON D'ALLONDANS. FOLLOWING is the pedigree of the old family of Carron d'Allondans, cadet of Carron, Lord of Carron and Chevalier and Little Baron of Meyrieu : The Hon. Antoine Carron, of St. Germain, Beugey, France, was married, and had a son — John de Carron. Esq., living in [521, who was Lord of Carron, and whose letters of nobility are dated from the " Coste St. Andre." April 29. 1539. He was also Chevalier and Baron of Meyrieu. His eldest son was Laurent de Carron, Esq.. Lord of Carron and Baron of Meyrieu, and his younger son — Jehan de Carron became a Protestant and fled to tin- Vaud country, and from thence he went to the county of Montbeliard. in Tranche Comte. and settled at Velloreille or Verroreille. His son — *Le Sieur Jehan Carron de Verroreille, married .Marguerite , and they had a son — Le Sieur Pierre Carron de Verroreille, who married Jehanne Martelot d'Allondans, and had a son — Le Sieur Jacques Carron ( 1644), who married and had a son — Le Sieur Jacques Carron. who married Claudine . and had a son — Le Sieur Jean Jacques Carron d'Allondans. who married Susanne Metin, and had a son — Le Sieur Jean Jacques Carron d'Allondans (horn July 21, 1720; baptized July 22, 1720). who married Marie Catherine, daughter of a man of means of the city of Montbeliard, the Hon. Pierre Maigret, burgess of the city. Their son — Le Sieur Jean Jacques Carron d'Allondans (horn October 16, 1761 ; bap- tized October 18, 1761), was a man of great intelligence and was better known as le Citoyen Jacques Carron. He married Elizabeth Marguerite. *lt must be remembered that in ancient France " le sieur" and "Monsieur" were titles given to younger sons of noble families when they did not possess landed prop- erty large enough to place the name of said property after their names. Formerly in ancient France the Lord of a manor was the only one to bear the name of that manor as in England to-day and as in Scotland even now. To-day and ever since the Revolu- tion and before in many families every one bears the name of the manor or other title that may no longer be possessed by the family. When the title is Baron then every one of the sons are called Baron only with the Christian name placed before the de; when higher the sons bear the title inferior to the one borne by the father. L'Honorable (the Honourable) was a title given to Patricians of cities and to personages holding dignified offices in the Protestant Churches, and is still given in this last case. In France when a title dies out in the main line some younger branch assumes the title and this is called (releve) to re-establish the title. The only thing necessary to do this is that the younger branch doing this shall be in a position sufficiently important in the world so as not to make its members ridiculous by bearing a title. - /////f/f/t/r/i '/ti/fif. ' / ' ' J// r ,111 I I I II //l/l I ' I Ill-Ill ll/l.l . Family of Carron d'Allondans. 373 daughter of Jean Georges Chenelot and Elizabeth Marguerite Charpiot de Bart. Among other children, they had — The Hon. Georges Frederic de Carron d'Allondans, elder in the Protestant Lutheran church at Allondans, who married Catherine Elizabeth, daughter of Monsieur Jean Georges Bourlier, Mayor of St. Marie. They had a son — Monsieur Jacques Frederic de Carron d'Allondans (born 1835), Municipal Councillor, who married Catherine, daughter of Monsieur Frederic Pillard, " rentier et proprietaire " at Tremoins. By this marriage he had two chil- dren — Catherine Marguerite, who married Major Harmon Pumpellv Read, and Louise Catherine de Carron d'Allondans. Arms of Carron— Azure three tiles or ; crest, out of a coronet an eagle displayed with a tile on its breast ; motto, Loyaute. In old French : d'Azur a trois Carrons d'Or. Arms of Pillard — Two eagle's legs sable, claws toward the base, on a chief azure a mullet or ; crest, out of a coronet a cock's head or, crested gules ; supporters, two cocks, one on dexter side or, and the other on sinister side ar- gent, 1480-1509. Monsieur Pierre Carron, master of the French schools in Mont- beliard and a very learned man for his day. and instructor to the Prince's child, was the son of the Honorable Jacques Carron, Bur- gess of the city of Montebeliard, and a man of wealth, from which the above family derives its de- scent was intimately associated with the ancestor of the Carron d'Allondans as a near relative. It has been taken for granted by the family in general that he is a direct ancestor instead of a near collateral one. Monsieur Pierre Carron married a woman of refinement and fine education, Susanne, daughter of Monsieur Matthias Vatelet, " Minister of the Word of God at Mont- beliard." The following are the children of this marriage: 1. Catherine (b. March 2, 1617). Presented for holy baptism by Monsieur Nicolas Nardin, minister of the Sacred Evangel at Montbeliard. 2. Jean (b. April 17, 1620). Presented by Monsieur Jean Bouvier. " gref- fier a la prevoste " (clerk of the city) and by Magdal Pommier. 3. Henriette (b. April 15, 1622). Presented by Andre Ernst in the name of Abram, and by Antoinette Cler in the name of her daughter, Henriette Heijer. 4. Pierre (b. January 11, 1624). Mrs. Harmon Pumpelly Read, in cos- tume representing Mrs. Colonel James Read, in Revolutionary Tableaux at Al- bany Bi-Centennial Celebration, July, 1886. 374 Rossi an a. 5. Monsieur Jacques (b. June n. 1626). Presented by Monsieur Pierre Guersot Parol, almoner of the hospital, in the name of his son. Jacques, and Dame Sybille (Lady Sybille) in the name of her daughter. Marie Magdeline. 6. Monsieur Maurice Frederic (b. May 31. 1629). Presented by Maurice Gregor and by Dame (Lady) Henriette Vienot. 7. Catherine (b. January II, 1632). 8. Samuel (b. August 26, 1634). Presented by Samuel Brisechoux and by Elizabeth Parrot in the name of her daughter, Marie du Vernoy. Below are given a few extracts to show the sources from which the author has drawn his information concerning this old family : In an ancient book, dated 1660, called " Vraye et Parfaite Science des Armoires, par Maistre Lovvan Geliot, augmente par Pierre Palliot," we find the ancestor of this family thus described : Carron en Beugey, Seigneur dudit lieu et de Meyrieu porte d'azur a trois Quarreaux d'argent. In the '* Generalite de Bourgogne," by Belly, we find the following: Jean Francois de Sessel et Marie Ann de Carron sa femme Porte parti coupe, tranche taillee d'or et d'azur, accole d'azur a 3 carreaux d'argent poses, 2 et 1. (40, 37, 38.) The same is found in the "Armorial General de France" (page 35), and in " d'Hozier." In the "Armorial de Bourgogne," by Chevillard (letter C), we find the following: "Carron Sg r du clit lieu et de Meyrieu Orig r de Savoye. Bresse (et Bourgogne)." Again, in "d'Hozier" (509), we have the following: Alexandre Carron, Docteur en Medicine a Lagnieux, and Antoine Carron, Chantre Theologal de L'Eglise, Cathedralle St. Jean Batiste de Belly. Also: "Bernard Carron, huissier aux registres du palais a Dijon (639). Extracts from the Registers of the Parish of St. Julien. copied by Rev. E. Meguin, follow : 1720 — Jean Jacques de Carron. fils de Jean Jacques Carron d'Allondans. et de Susanne Metin sa femme est ne' on dit lieu le 21 et a ete, baptise le 22 Juillet. 1720. Presente' an Saint bapteme par honorable Jean Jacques Jodrv, ancien de l'Eglise, pour son tils Jean Jacques le parrain et par Anne- Catherine, nlle ainee de l'honorable Jean Jacques Met try, ancien de l'Eglise, la Marraine, tous du dit Allondans. Sons le ministere de P. C. Morel. Translation — 1720 — John James de Carron, son of John James Carron d'Allondans ami of Susanne Metin. his wife, was born in Allondans the 21 and was baptized the 22 of July. 1720. Presented to holy baptism by Honorable John James Jodry. elder in the church, for his son John James, the godfather, and by Anne-Catherine, eldest daughter of Honorable John James Mettey, elder in the church, the godmother. All of the above- mentioned Allondans. 17b i —Jean Jacques de Carron, fils de Jean Jacques Carron d'Allondanset de Marie-Catherine Maigret, est ne' le 16 du mois Octobre, et a ete' baptise le iS du meme mois, par le souscrit ministre. 11 a eut pour parrain Jean Jacques Goguel, d'Allondans, et sa marraine fut Catherine Jodry, fille de Jacques Jodrv. anssi du dit lieu. Signe Bernard. Family of Carron d'Allondans. 375 Translation — 1761 — John James de Carron, son of John James Carron d'Allondans and Mary Catherine Maigret, was born the 16th of the month of October and was baptized the 18th of the same month by the undersigned min- ister. He had as godfather John James Goguel, of Allondans, and his godmother was Catherine Jodry, daughter of James Jodry, also of Allondans. Signed Bernard. Le manage de Jacques Carron d'Allondans, fils de Jean Jacques Carron d'Allondans et de Marie Catherine Maigret, avec Marguerite-Elizabeth Chene- lot de Bart, daughter of Jean-Georges Chenelot de Bart et de Elizabeth Mar- guerite Charpiot a ete beni et continue dans le temple de St. Julien, le 6 Feurier, 1787. Signe C. F. Goguel. Translation — The marriage of James Carron d'Allondans, son of John James Carron d'Allondans and of Mary Catherine Maigret, with Marguerite Elizabeth Chenelot de Bart, daughter of John George Chenelot de Bart and of Elizabeth Marguerite Charpiot, and was blessed and confirmed in the Temple of St. Julien the 6 of February, 1787. Signed C. F. Goguel. These copies are exact and in the handwriting of Rev. E. Meguin. Also: "Josef Ealavier, procureur au Palement de Dijon, et Pierrette Car- ron sa femme." In Guichenon's " Histoire de Bresse " we find a long description of the older line, beginning with Jean de Carron, Lord of the same place, living in 1521, who was ennobled by King Francis II. We also find, in an old MS., " Maistre Carron de Verrorelle, azure 3 car- rons d'or, 2 and 1." Related Families. The following families of the name of Carron are all related: Carron: Arms, azure three tiles argent, two and one; crest, an eagle displayed. Lords of Carron and Barons of Meyrieu. Carron- Arms, azure three tablets (or long tiles), argent. Carron : Arms, gules three tiles or, placed as lozenges. Carron: Arms, gules three tiles or; crest, an eagle displayed or. Carron: Arms, gules three carrons or, the shield surmounted with the coronet of a Count, Lords of Biguerne and Counts of Cessens and of Gresy. Carron d'Allondans: Arms, azure three tiles or, two and one; crest, an eagle displayed bearing a tile or upon its breast. Carron: An old family of Dijon. Arms or, a counter band sable. Caron or Carron : Arms, azure three tiles placed as lozenges argent, two and one, in clief a small cross or. The family is of Lagnieux. 1 lThe above information in regard to the family of Carron was obtained many years ago. The author consulted Guichenon Chevillard, Palliot, the History of Gresy sur Aix, family papers and a great quantity of documents such as that wonderful collection of d'Hozier in the National Library in Paris. There is a branch of this race in Switzer- land with arms not at all like those given above. There is another branch in Italy who are Marquises and Knights of the Anonciade. They bear azure three tiles argent as a shield of pretense on their own arms to denote their descent from the original family. FORAS FAMILY. THE family of Foras is one of the knightly houses whose nobility is immemorial in the Duchy of Savoie. It is mentioned in authentic deeds of the thirteenth century and figures and is styled one of the must distinguished Families of the Duchy in the " Preuves Chapitrates " for the Order of Malta. Barle or Berlion de Foras was one of the Knights of the Collier (now the Annonciade) who founded this celebrated order in 1362. Rudolph de Foras was commander of the Order of Malta from 1368 to 1379. Seated originally in Genevois, the family emigrated in the fourteenth cen- tury to the Chateau de Foras sous Ballyson (Haute Savoie) which was destroyed in 1687 and from that time it established itself in the " Chateau de Thuyset," near Thonon. Among other distinguished modern members of the family may be mentioned General Joseph Marie de Foras and the Foras Family 377 very learned Count Amedee de Foras, Knight of St. John of Jerusalem (Malta), Commander of SS. Maurice and Lazare and of the Order of Christ, Knight of the Holy Sepulchre, Grand Marshall of the Court of Bul- garia. An author of note, his son, Count Max de Foras, Knight of SS. Mau- rice and Lazare, married Marie Meredith Read, and his daughter, Countess Count Amedee de Foras. Alix de Foras, married, in 1901, Colonel John Meredith Read. Besides these children, he had — Count Barle de Foras, who has a large family. Count Etienne de Foras, who is married. Count Rudolph de Foras, who is married and is an officer in the French armv. c 1—2 «2 c • — r- a; r* 1 ' x 3 3 n ii 3 c. « «» O B II J* 3hJ 5 00 to — j? osSi-1 B 5 ;" "3 — ; M « >- K, '_ tc ~ c o 5 < B . d §& - II « S — -* O " Ml « E is H « . o — ,D B pcj w b t- i- rH b d 3 O U £ • — C N ^ 2S J >" rt C/3k» jj <£ 6= s "3 a u «J E on2 fc — o 3.2 u — u a eg E a N b ^3 1*S B wo J5H J £ iq — 1 u 5.S b r; ~ . — >. N «>-; '""b s «^> ri ri ■"^" 2^ II — 3 - £ d a < 'b"c CO-3 b"3 oo b B in 5 6 in — C o — 1 o M c. — - " _ b ■" ii § n 5 •d (LI r^-, > hJ 3 >. M n c — c si ills C/2 si - — S u 1 1 Ht° 2 •= ,: w 3 C/2 a 3 o «° .3 ~y H A — B - - «Ell cS- E >. — c = _>1 i- B ^a — - u rin-J; «2 :: — >' .; (U f~ 1 — rt E f-'-iJii>j- 'S < u — ■ o ■ — b | ' *-J V "o «> " o.r k, WARD FAMILY. THE Ward family of Maryland, which became connected with the Read family through the marriage of Thomas Veazey Ward with Mary Thompson McLane, daughter of Dr. Allan McLane and Catherine Read McLane (daughter of Hon. George Read, 2d, of Delaware), was one of the most respectable and influential in Maryland. 1. William Ward, planter, of Sassafras Neck, Cecil county, Maryland, had a patent in what was afterwards called Cecil county, in 1671. On December 14, 1681, he patented " Neighbors' Grudge," afterward called " Woodlawn." He was commissioner to lay out the towns in Cecil county, 1683; Justice of the County Court, 1688-92; commissioner to divide Cecil county into parishes of the Church of England, 1692 (see Proceedings of the Assembly, 1683, Archives of Maryland, p. 610; Proceedings of the Council, 1687, pp. 2^, 49, 454 474, Publications of Maryland Historical Society) ; member of the first vestry of St. Stephen's church, parish of North Sassafras, the first meeting of which was held January 10, 1693 ; on February 16, 1693, the vestry met at his house; he served in the vestry 1693 to 1704, and from 1707 to 1712; sold to the vestry (1695 and 1697) the land which is now the glebe (see Parish Records, 1 to 55, Maryland Historical Society). William Ward married, first, Elizabeth — , who died in 1696, and, secondly, Charity , who left no children. He died April 17, 1720 (page 172, St. Stephen's Register). The children of William and Elizabeth Ward were: 2. Alice. 3. Nathaniel, who died in childhood. -4. John (baptized 1692), planter, of Sassafras Neck, Cecil county. (See p. 165 St. Stephen's Register, Maryland Historical Society.) He owned "' Woodlawn," " Locust Thicket " and other tracts ; vestryman at St. Stephen's, 1714, 1727-29 (St. Stephen's Register, pp. 57, 80, 92, 102, no, in, 116); Justice of the County Court, March 3, 1726, to 1730 (Archives of Maryland, vol. " Commissioners," 1726, etc.) John Ward married (March 25, 1717) Susanna (b. Jan. 20, 1696), daughter and only child of William and Rosamond Veazey, of Sassafras Neck, granddaughter of John and Martha Veazey. John Ward died in May, 1734; will dated April 26, 1734; proved May 25, 1734; recorded in office of Register of Wills for Cecil county at Elkton, vol. AA, p. 280. The children of John and Susanna V. Ward mentioned in his will or recorded in the Register of St. Stephen's were: 5. Alice. 6. Elizabeth. 7. Susanna. 8. Sarah. 9. Rachel. 380 Ward Family. 10. William. See brim,: 11. John, from whom descended Henry V. Ward, George Washington Ward and others. 12. Nathaniel. 10. William Ward, planter, of Sassafras Neck, Cecil county, was horn March 19, 1727, and lived at " Woodlawn," which was devised to him in his father's will as "Neighbors' Grudge." He was vestryman at St. Stephen's for many years; Justice of the County Court. 1760. 1772-74; member of the House of Burgesses of Maryland from Cecil county, 1762-63, 1765-66, 1768-70 and 1773; member of the Convention of Provincial Deputies which met at Annapolis, June 22. 1774 (Proceedings of the Assembly). William Ward married (.March 11, 1757) Rebecca Davis ( b. Dec. 17, 1737). daughter of Thomas and Rebecca Gregory Davis, of Cecil county (p. 26, St. Stephen's Register). He died .May or June. 1776; will dated February 20. 1 7 7< » "• proved June 6, 1776; recorded in the office of the Register of Wills at Elkton, vol. I'd',, p. 439. The will mentions the following children: 13. William. See below. 14. Thomas. 15. Susanna. 16. Rebecca. 17. Sarah. IS. Elizabeth. 13. William Ward, planter, of Sassafras Neck, Cecil county, was born September 28, 1760 ( p. nS. St. Stephen's Register), and lived at "Wood- lawn." which was devised to him by bis father, lie was a vestryman at St. Stephen's for many years; member of the Maryland House of Delegates from Cecil county in General Assembly of 1793-05. He married (Nov. 25, 1 7S4 ) Anne Veazev. daughter of Edward and Elizabeth He Course} Veazey, of "Cherry Grove," and granddaughter of Colonel John Veazey, Sr., of " Essex Lodge." William Ward died at " Woodlawn." December 4. 1835; will proved December 16, 1N35; recorded at Elkton. The children of William and Anne V. Ward mentioned in the will (including James, not mentioned) were: 1!>. William 11. Ward. (Judge Ward, of Baltimore.) 20. Elizabeth. 21. Sarah, who married Dr. John T. Veazey. 22. Anne, who married Thomas B. Veazey, of " Essex Lodge." 2:$. James, who died unmarried. 24. Susan, who married Andrew Eoster Henderson. 25. Juliana, who married, first, Dr. George Read Pearce, and. secondly, Ambrose C. Richardson. 26. Thomas Veazey. See below 26. Thomas Veazey Ward (b. March 25, 1809) lived at "Woodlawn." He was a vestryman of St. Stephen's Church. He married (184 — ) Mary Thompson McLane (d. 1882), daughter of Dr. Allan and Catherine Anne Read McLane, of Delaware. Thomas Veazey Ward died November 26, 1873, having had the following children : 27. Julia McLane. See below. 28. Catherine (d. young). Rossiana. 381 29. William. See below. 30. Thomas. See below. 31. Lilly (d. young). 32. Elizabeth McLane. See below. 27. Julia McLane Ward married Rev. W. H. W. Cruikshank, and had the following children : 33. Ward, who married Florence P. Mitchell, of Charles comity, Maryland, and died in October, 1906, leaving two children. 34. Miriam. 35. Harry. 36. Julia, who married Dr. Charles Doland, of Spokane, Wash. 29. William Ward (b. Jan. 31, 1847, twin with his brother Thomas), married (April 27, 1872) Charlotte R. Knight, daughter of William Knight, of Cecil county, and died August, 1905, having had three children : 37. Belle Knight. See below. 38. Mary McLane. See below. 39. William (b. Jan. 6, 1882; d. March 6, 1883). 30. Thomas Ward (b. Jan. 31, 1847) married (Oct. 16, 1877) Henrietta George Davis, daughter of Henry George and Elizabeth Caldwell Davis, of Talbot county, Maryland. He died August 19, 1890, having had the following children : 40. Elizabeth Caldwell (b. April 19, 1880). 41. Thomas Veazey (b. Dec. 20, 1884; d. Aug. 6, 1885): 42. Henry George (b. Sept. 25, 1886). 43. Allan McLane (b. Feb. 18, 1888). 32. Elizabeth McLane (b. April 7, 1854) married (Jan. 17, 1884) War- rington Lore, of Philadelphia, and has one son — 44. Thomas Ward Lore (b. Oct. 13, 1887). 37. Belle Knight Ward (b. July 10, 1874) married Dr. John Randolph Graham, of New York, and had a son — 45. John Randolph Graham. 38. Mary McLane Ward (b. Oct. 27, 1877) married (Aug. 28, 1897) Leonard Passano, Jr., of Baltimore, and has two children — 46. Leonard. 47. Gladys. Appendix. ANCIENT FREEMASONRY. IN connection with the fact that Bishop William Rede (born , died 1385) belonged to the fraternity of Operative Free Masons, and of the fur- ther fact that a number of the descendants of Colonel John Read, ancestor of the American Reads, held high rank in the Order of Free and Accepted Masons in the United States, it may be of interest to say a few words about this ancient fraternity. The origin of this society has been sought in the mysteries of the ancients, and at one time or another every secret society of the ancient world has been claimed as the parent of the order. Strange, that, with its ancestor still alive and in a good state of health in France, both in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries men should have written so many books to show an ancestry which could easily be shown to be false! There is in France to-day a very ancient society among workmen, orig- inally men employed in the building art, such as masons, carpenters, wood carvers, stone carvers, etc., called " Le Compagnonnage " (the Fellowship). There are three rites among them — i°. The Children of Solomon, or the Rite of Liberty. 2°. The Children of Master James (Maitre Jaques), Companions of the Rite, or Devourers. 3°. The Children of Master Soubise, who are also Companions of the Rite, but who are distinguished from them by their traditions. Each of these Rites possesses its own legend, and claims to descend from one of the original founders. The legend of Solomon, or, rather, of Hiram, is by far the oldest of the three. It is the same, with the exception of a few more details, as the legend of the third degree of Masonry known to all Master Masons. The legend of Master James is as follows : While the Companions of the Rite of Liberty pride themselves upon their two founders, Solomon and Hiram, the Companions of the Rite (or Sacred Rite of God, as it is often named) pretend to have been created by a personage, who is thought to have been mythical, called Master James. There are two versions to this legend. The first version states that Master James, one of the most im- portant Master Masons of Solomon, and the colleague of Hiram, was born at Carte (which would be Saint Romili, a place which to-day does not exist). He began to cut stone from his childhood. At fifteen years of age he made long journeys to Greece, Egypt, Palestine; thence to Jerusalem, where he arrived at the age of 36 years, after having traveled 21 years of his life. He worked on the Temple of Solomon, then being built, and carved two pillars — the Column Vedrera and the Column Macaloe. On these columns were sculptured pictures from the Old Testament and from his own life. He was called the Chief Master of the Masons, Stone Carvers 386 Rossiaiia. and Carpenters. The Temple completed, James left Judea in company with another Master, Soubise. He fought with him, and they separated. Soubise landed at Bordeaux and James landed at Marseilles with thirteen com- panions and forty followers. He journeyed three years, during which time he was obliged to defend himself against the disciples of Soubise. One day one of them threw him into a marsh, but fortunately he hid behind some reeds until his friends came and rescued him. He retired to the Hermitage of Saint Baume, in Provence. One of his disciples, the infamous Jeron, became a traitor. One morning while Master James was at his prayers in an out of the way spot, Jeron came and gave him the kiss of peace. This was the signal understood by his five assassins, who threw themselves upon Master James and pierced him with five wounds made with their poniards. He lived a few hours after this — long enough to say good-bye to his com- panions. "I die," he said; "God wished it. I pardon my enemies. I for- bid your following them, for they are unfortunate enough. I gave my spirit to God, my creator, and as I have nothing to give you, I give you the kiss of peace. You will give it to each companion that you will receive, as coming from their father, and they in turn will transmit it. When I am gone I will look after you, and wish you to be faithful to your Rite and to God." When Master James was dead his followers took off his clothes and found in his breast a small part of one of the reeds, which he always wore in remembrance of those reeds which saved his life in the morass. It was made into a case and inside were found mathematical instruments. The fellows placed the body on a bed, which was transported to a grotto. There his body remained exposed for two days while a fire made with alcohol and rosin burned around his improvised pyre. The body was then brought in a procession to a place near Saint Maximin, where it was buried with full funeral rites. The effects of Master James were then divided. They gave his hat to the hatters, his coat to the stonecutters, his sandals to the lock- smiths, his cloak to the , his belt to the carpenters, and his staff to the carters. Jeron, the traitor, devoured with remorse, threw himself into a deep well, which was filled up. Master Soubise was accused of having instigated the murder of James, but others say that he was very sorrowful when he learned of the death of his old friend. The legend of Master Soubise is nearly the same as that of Master James. The truth of the matter is that the oldest legend is that of Hiram, which has come down in the Compagnonage, or Fellowship, probably since the building of Herod's Temple, when large numbers of foreign workmen were employed. The Knights Templar were great constructors of churches and other buildings, and employed large numbers of skilled workmen to do their work. Master James, represented in the above story as contemporary with Hiram at the building of the first Temple, was really Grand Master James de Molay. the last Grand Master of the Knights Templar, and who was burned by order of King Philip le Bel. Grand Master de Molay grouped together Ancient freemasonry. 387 the fellows of the constructive trades and gave them rules to govern them, such as the masons, stone carvers, carpenters, etc., who worked for the Order of the Temple. Soubise was simply a Benedictine Monk, who lived at the end of the thir- teenth century, for he is always represented in the costume of that order in ihe lodges of the companions or fellows of the Rite. Soubise, like Read and other learned churchmen, was a skilled architect, and was the practical architect, with James de Molay as the chief director in the construction of the Cathedral of Orleans (the Church of Sainte Croix). Why do our English Masons have no records or remembrance of Master James (Jaques) and Master Soubise? it may be asked. The answer must lie that Masonry, or Fellowship, was introduced into England before the thirteenth century and before the times of James de Molay and Soubise. If two organizations, such as the Fellowship and Freemasonry, without any connection known at the time of the so-called Masonic revival in London, have for centuries had one legend handed down by word of mouth, and one of them has two rites with another legend also, which tradition states really has to do with the construction of the Orleans Cathedral in the thirteenth century, it must necessarily mean that the younger body (the English) must have left the parent stock before the new legends had taken root. The various rites of the Fellowship .(Compagnonage) have, as emblems, the star, the maul, the book, the rose, the vine, the acacia. A part of one of the lectures runs thus : What does the flaming star signify? A. The star that guided Master James and Father Soubise from the Orient to Provence. What do the nine stars signify? A. They signify the nine masters who went to the research of the body of * * *. The square ashler signifies the first stone placed at Solomon's Temple ; the rose signifies beauty; the acacia, laurel and vine, softness, sadness, peace and strength. The luminous triangle is the symbol of the trinity which rules mortals. The mosaic pavement, the flaming star and cable with knots are important emblems. Again, the jewels, are divided into three immov- able (symbolizing the Rouleur [Masterl and the first and second in the city) and three movable (the rough ashler for the Apprentice, the cubical stone for the Fellows, who sharpen their tools upon it. and the tracing board, upon which the Master traces his designs. The three points that Freemasons in some rites place after their names are also placed after the names of mem- bers of the Fellowship, and are thus explained : First — They were adopted in remembrance of the three blows given to their ancient Master. Second — They remind one that man is born, man lives, man dies. Third — They also mean, " Knock and it shall be opened to you ; seek and ye shall find; ask and it shall be given you." The other lectures are still more like those of Masonry. Bunches of rib- bons of various colors, used to designate the rite to which a Fellow belongs, are the badges of the society. The square and compasses is the general badge or arms of the whole Fellowship. A long staff is also an important part of the dress of the Fellow, and the apron and white gloves have their 388 Rossiana. place. The sun and moon and Rouleur (Master), play the same part as in Masonry. Of course, I have taken the rite of Master James, and not that of Liberty, or Children of Solomon, to illustrate my theory of the origin of Freemasonry. That of Liberty is simply ancient Masonry about which, as one of the fra- ternity, I do not feel that, however interesting, I can print any one of its ceremonies. The reader will see that in the Fellowship the word freedom, or liberty, plays an important part in the Rite of Liberty or Freedom. Free Mason is the English adaptation. It does not come from Frere Mason, as some have thought, but from that rite of the Compagnonage called the Rite of Liberty, or Freedom, Children of Solomon. Most of the degrees of the Scottish Rite, which were made in France and even to-day bear strong marks of their French origin, were taken from the various rites of the Compagnonage. Baron de Ramsay was the inventor of the Rite of Perfection of fourteen degrees. 5 These degrees were nearly all taken from the Fellowship and given a chivalrous garb to please the French and Scotch nobles who went into the fraternity, and in accordance with the tradition that Master James was no other than James de Molay. Ramsay, however, never dared reveal the source of his information, but placed it in Scotland, a country which at that time had never heard of any- thing contained in his high degrees, except Scottish Master and Templar." The proud gentlemen of France would, at that period, have scorned to have anything to do with a workmen's society. In England, for many years before the revival in 1717, lodges existed in the various cathedral towns and were the continuation of these lodges that had worked at the construction of those cathedrals, or at their finishing or reparations. Two things are very confusing in what ancient documents have come down to us — the word craft and its traditions and the word Freemason, or Freemasonry, and its traditions. The two seem to have a different origin. I helieve it is because of this. Freemasonry, or the Fellowship, was a society with traditions going back to the construction of the Temple of Solomon, while the craft of Masonry was the trade of stonecutter and builder. In those English and Scotch lodges before 1717, and indeed far back in 1400, it would be only natural that men should from time to time arise in these lodges who would be interested in the history of the art of building and make some study of it, particularly in their own country, and having done so and put it into writing, what would be more natural than that these lodges, which had such members, should become proud of this extra learn- ing and hand it down as a priceless heirloom, and to read at each meeting this extra information for the benefit of the initiate? Thus have come down to us two sets of traditions — those of the Fellowship (the legend of Hiram, etc.), and the ancient documents giving the history of the craft of Masonry in England, perhaps long before the advent of the fraternity itself. 'Chevalier de Bonneville also invented many of these degrees. 2 There are some learned masons who believe the degree of the Royal Order of Scot- land was worked at the time. Of course there must have been some extra degrees in Scotland to give Baron de Ramsay some excuse for his Rite. Ancient Freemasonry. 389 The initiation of a Fellow in the Fellowship always ends in libations and a feast; so did the initiation of a Mason. The colors, blue and white and gold, are the colors of the Fellowship; the colors, blue and white, those of Freemasonry, and gold is or was the metal used for decorating. The colors used in the higher degrees are found in the various rites of the Fellowship, and, if I am correct, were not found in Freemasonry until the days of Baron de Ramsay. Let it be quite understood that I am not one of those brethren of the order who consider Freemasonry a modern society. On the contrary, I believe it to be very ancient, but that its name on the continent was Com- pagnonage, or Fellowship, before it was brought to England. It is a well understood fact that, after the building of Herod's Temple, the masons who built it were employed in keeping it in order, and when a new workman had to be employed, say to repair something in the holy of holies, he was blindfolded by one of the priests, and taken a number of times about the building so that he did not know how he had come there. He was lowered by a cord into the sacred place, three candles or lights were lit so that he might have light to work by, the blindfold taken off as being of no further use, the cord unloosed and his tools given to him and an oath administered to him that he should not reveal what no one had seen except the higher order of priests. It does not require a great stretch of the imagination to believe that these favored workmen would look upon one another as being superior to the rest and would be more inclined to form a select band ; and that the priests would do all they could to favor such a spirit is only natural; that traditions of Solomon's Temple would naturally be of the greatest interest to these workers needs no demonstration, and the priests' ability to furnish them better than any one in the world is of course undoubted. These artisans were nearly all strangers, and when Jerusalem fell they fled to all parts of the world. As the society became a part of the order of things in mediaeval Europe, and it introduced the gothic form of architecture, it gradually added matter to its symbolism, taking much from the Christian church, which was but natural, some from the ideas of astrology, much from Vetruvius the Roman architect, and some things most interesting from the Gnostics and White Magic (the Key of Solomon). Then came the period of the Templars' con- nection with "the order, and it adopted some things from them on the Conti- nent, particularly in France. ■ The oldest genuine Masonic symbol is to be found on a mosaic found in Pompeii. The field is blue, like a square apron, on which is a level, skull, a wheel and aprons hung up by the end. There are genuine Masonic sym- bols on the Cathedral of Milan and on the Cathedral St. Denis, in France, and on nearly every Gothic church, or on the inside may be found symbols and signs yet used in English Freemasonry and in the French Compagnonage or Fellowship. In the Compagnonage, or Fellowship, it is true the real members of a lodge are the fellows ; the apprentice is only attached to the lodge, but is not a member, and the Masters are no longer true members of the lodge as they were in the eleventh century ; the reason being that the social position of the Master of the work (architect) has risen durin~ all 390 Rossiana. these centuries, and that in most countries they separated early from the mass of their workmen. In Germany it was not so; neither was it so in Scotland. In Germany the master of the work presided in the lodge and held a sword in his hand ; this was before English Freemasonry was intro- duced into that country. In the revival in London in 1717 much interesting matter was given up and destroyed, because of the ignorance or prejudice of the " gentlemen masons." These things may be yet recovered by entering the Fellowship in France. The word in English Masonry of Lewis or Littlewolf has no significance, but its full meaning is understood in the Fellowship in the rites of Freedom, of Master James and of Father Soubise. MASONS' MARKS. In Germany each master of the work had his mark as the humblest work- man had. but with this difference, the master placed his upon a shield and the mark was cut out in large like a heraldic charge and it became hereditary in his family, and many coats of arms of the old burgess families had this origin. There were regular keys to try these marks upon ; some of the German ones have come down to us because in use as late as the eighteenth century. There is, for instance, the key of the circle, the key of the triangle, the key of the star, etc. Quite early in the thirteenth century a difference existed between the proprietary signs of masters and fellows of the original Fellowship, or Free- masonry, but only in elaboration and method of representation. Previous to this time their composition was of the plainest simplicity. Afterwards, and until the monogram came in in the seventeenth century, a master Mason's mark was invariably presented in the form of a shield on which the token was hewn or painted in colors. A safe guide in the detection of the age of these figures is the pointed edge of the escutcheon. Along the gallery of St. Vitus' Cathedral in Prague may be >till seen numerous busts chiseled out of. stone between the years 1370 and 1409, to commemorate functionaries of high grade in state and church, as well as Master Masons of high degree. Among these in right of their fame as constructors of this mighty structure are the images of Matthew of Arras, and Peter of Gemun- den, each of these is decorated with his Masonic mark. This last-named Mason's mark, though be was from Swabia, was solvable on the quadrate system, and so took his filiation in the fraternity within the jurisdiction of Strasburg. In their general construction, marks were undoubtedly drawn upon the fixed theorems of geometry. It may be stated that this basis or key, solving each Mason's mark into its geometric elements is divisible thus to a perfect square within a circle, this then is carried out into a succession of figures such as two interlaced squares or three within the circle, which may be multiplied indefinitely. For the same purpose the 2° component is traceable to the equilateral triangle described inside the perfect circle with its unlimited extensions. 3 , or the last base for a key, is a smaller circle drawn from the Ancient Freemasonry, 39i interior line of the perfect circle in the centre of the smaller circle a dot — whose multiples conjoined with the preceding quadrates and triangles com- pose the key of the medieval Mason's marks. These marks were used as seals by the masters, many of them cut in gold and silver. There was also another more simple key which was a five-pointed star, made by three tri- Keys to Mason's Marks. angles placed within a perfect circle. The following lines taken from the German, refer to the Mason's mark and the secret way of testing it : A point that in the circle goes, Which in quadrate and triangle stands Knowst thou the dot, then it is good. Knowst thou it not, then all is vain. 39 2 Rossi a no. I believe that the point within a circle and the two parallel vertical lines is the key to an English key for masons' marks. The explanation now given in the lodge is probably intended to hide from any but the initiate the way to use this key. The trouble with most historians of the society has been that they do not wish to recognize that the three first degrees were part of a brotherhood of Keys to Mason's Marks. mechanics devoted to the building trades. Everything, therefore, found in the Masonic lodges previous to 1717 must have been intimately connected with building, or the mystic religious ideas of these builders. It must be remembered that these artisans had come under the Christian spell very early in their history, probably a century after the fall of Jerusalem and the Ancient Freemasonry. 393 destruction of Herod's temple. They were Johnite Christians, and the sym- bols and traditions, while symbolizing the art of architecture through the story of the Builder, or, as it was anciently called, the Master's part, typified the chief stone which the builders rejected. These ancient fellows were mystics. From St. John they got their Chris- tianity ; from the Temple of Solomon, their traditions ; from Vetruvius, their /I''- M^ >*- . ' « ' , ; "Vvi-.: ip^ V '*i*'^i sj Keys to Mason's Marks. architectural inspiration ; from White Magic and the astrologists, some of their secrets; from the Gnostics, their faculty of Abrax or universal language. Later they adopted many of the ideas of the alchemists, those wonderful men who gave us modern chemistry. The point within the circle and the two parallel lines is one of the most ancient symbols and figures of the fraternity. 394 Rossiaua. RAMSAY'S RITE OF PERFECTION. Baron de Ramsay ruled for some time the office of Orator of the Provin- cial Grand Lodge. He was a partisan of the Stuarts, and his Rite of Perfection, called Scottish, by him was intended to make Masonry sub- servient to the Stuart party by the restoration of the Pretender. In the year 1758 a chapter was formed called " The Emperors of the East and the West," of which the members gave themselves the modest titles of Sov- ereign Prince Masons, Substitutes General of the Royal Art and Grand Wardens and Officers of the Sovereign Grand Lodge of St. John of Jeru- salem. This chapter was a rite composed of Ramsay's Rite of Perfection of fourteen degrees and some other newer degrees, and one old one, in all twenty-five. This was the ancestor or direct parent, rather, of the Ancient Scottish Rite. The double-headed eagle of that rite refers to the two- headed eagle of the Holy Roman Empire, one head represents the emperor of the West and the other the Emperor of the East. The eagle of Scottish Rite Masonry alludes to the Holy Empire of Freemasonry, whose founda- tion is trust in God. The flaming sword or dagger in its tallons signifies that the Knights of Masonry will defend the Holy Empire with arms if necessary. This eagle has nothing to do with the Prussian eagle, which has but one head. The Teutonic cross refers to the two columns of the Temple, which being crossed forms the Christian cross, in other words, the passing away of the old dispensation and the commencing of the new era, Peace on earth, good will to men. Baron de Ramsay was converted to the Roman Catholic religion by no less a person than Fenelon, and afterward became preceptor at Rome to the son of the dethroned King James III. He came to France in 1728, after having failed in London in his attempt to organize, in the interest of the Stuarts, a new Masonry calculated to annihilate the influence of the Grand Lodge of London. He died at the age of 57, at St. Germain en Laye, in 1743. At first his rite had only five degrees, then it was augmented by the addition of two degrees, and finally to fourteen degrees as already stated. Ln l 737 Baron Sinclair of Roslin, hereditary patron of the Masons of Scot- land, resigned his rights and became the first elected Grand Master of Scotland. Some of the ancient lodges, among them Kilwinning, had two extra degrees, said to have been Templar and Scottish Master. After the organization of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, the thirty-two lodges of which it was constituted ranked by number in the order of their claims to age, and the Lodge Mary's Chapel exhibiting an act in due form, which carried its origin to the year 1598, was placed at the head of the list. The Lodge Canongate Kilwinning had rightly claimed this place, stating that its origin went back as far as the year 1128, a circumstance very generally admitted in the country, but this lodge having lost its papers, could not pro- duce proof of this antiquity and was refused the preference. This refusal caused the lodge to set itself up as an independent constituent power at Edinburgh in 1744. at first under the name of the Mother Lodge of Kil- winning, and subsequently as the Royal Grand Lodge and Chapter of the Order of Herodim of Kilwinning. Canongate Kilwinning had two high Ancient Freemasonry. 395 degrees, known as Templar and Scottish Master, as I have already said, but it shortly added to its collection many of Baron Ramsay's inventions largely taken from the Fellowship. The reader of these notes will easily see that the author does not agree at all with the conclusions of Gould, the famous Masonic historian. Gould would make Masonry a modern society, with no degrees and no secrets and no ceremonies before 1717, the period of the revival. He would wish us to believe that men not connected in any way with the art of building and prejudiced against anything like a handicraft invented the three first degrees. This is not only improbable, but impos- sible, and it was only because of the genuine belief in the antiquity of the society that the apron and other signs of the craft were retained. What the degrees would have been had they been the invention of these men at that period can easily be seen by looking over the Rose Croix, one of the oldest of the high degrees. In 1780 the degrees of Adonhiramite Masonry were already old; the base of this rite was the three first degrees ; then came Perfect Master, First Elected, Second Elected, Third Elected (elected of 15), Little Architect, Grand Architect or Scotch Fellow, Scottish Master, Knight of the Sword, Knight of the Rose-Croix and Noachite or Prussian Knight. I have before me an ancient book, dated 1787, containing the degrees from Perfect Master up to Noachite. The Noachite's degree had already undergone a change. Nearly all these degrees were a little later placed in the Scottish Rite. Some of them forming part of Ramsay's original Rite. The Knight of the Phenix is believed to have been worked by some French lodges in 1720, and some say earlier than that. Unless a grade attached to the Compagnonage and afterwards transferred to Freemasonry I do not see how this can be. One must, of course, always remember that some of the degrees of Knighthood given in the Masonic fraternity during the last one hundred and fifty or two hundred years were really very ancient and truly existed in the middle ages unconnected with Freemasonry or the Compagnonage. For one reason or another these orders died out, leaving nothing behind except a few decora- tions and the ceremony of reception practiced in each of them. In the eighteenth century, at the revival, enthusiastic Masons found these books containing the ceremonies and placed these orders as degrees in high Masonry. KING SOLOMON'S TEMPLE. Stanley in his History of the Jewish Church, among other things about the Temple, says : The Porch. " The porch, the most startling novelty of the building was as being external to the rest, the part in which foreign architects were allowed the freest play. In materials it was probably suggested by the Assyrian in Elevation by the Egyptian Architecture, whilst the Tyrian sculptors displayed their art to the full in the two elaborate pillars. They stood immediately under the porch within but not supporting it : and were, Called either from the workmen or from their own firmness and solidity Jachin and Boaz. Their golden pedestals, their bright brazen shafts, their rich capitals their 396 Rossiana. light festoons, were thought prodigies of art so remarkable that the Israelites were never weary of recounting their glories. The gates of the porch usually stood open. Hung around it inside were probably the shields and spears that had been used in David's army perhaps also the sword and the skull of the gigantic Philistine which had originally been laid up in the Tabernacle. The Holy Place. The Phoenician workmen had rendered it as nearly as they could like pne of the huge vessels to which their own city of Tyre was compared by the Hebrew Prophets. But inside the wood was overlaid with gold, and on this were sculptured forms which nearly resemble the winged creatures and mysterious trees familiar to us in Assyrian Sculpture. The Cherub with the alternate face of a man and of a lion and the Palm then as afterward in the Maccabaen age the emblem of Palestine, were worked alternately along the walls. At the end of the chamber were the two symbols of nourishment and fasting which were in a more tangible and material form represented by the sacrifices. ********** The Innermost Sanctuary. He who in the progress of the building ventured to look in would have seen a small square chamber, like an Egyptian adytum absolutely dark except by the light received through this aperture. But in the darkness, two huge golden forms would have been discerned, in imitation on a grand scale of the cherubs which had formed the covering of the Ancient Ark. But, unlike those movable figures, these stood firm on their feet ; one on the north, one on the south, waiting to receive the ark, which was destined to occupy the vacant space between them. Their vast wings extended over it and joined in a car or throne, called the "Chariot of the Cherubs " to represent the throne of him who was represented as flying and sitting upon the wings of the wind and the extension of his protecting shelter over his people. The name and partly the idea of the "Holy of the Holies" has been copied in the Eastern Church. The architects of the middle ages, (and it is said the Freemasons of our own time ) made a boast of tracing back their legendary lore and strange usages to those of Solomon's Temple." ********** Middoth says that in the later Temple (Herod's) workmen for repairs were let into the Holy of Holies blindfolded and other Authors tell the same story with additions. The Cherubim were symbolic animals wdiose body was that of a bull with the face of a man, the eyes and wings of the eagle, the mane of a lion and the ears of an ass. The symbolic combination of the arms or tribal emblems of the most important tribes- — representing the generative force of the bull, the swiftness' and keen sight of the eagle, the intelligence of the man, the Ancient Freemasonry. 397 courage of the lion and the patience of the ass. Probably the ornaments around or under these animals took in all the symbols of the other tribes. These beasts were male and female — This is really the symbolic angel of the Lord — We know that the cherub had long ears, from the repeated statement made that the Jews worshipped a god in the shape of a donkey — Undoubt- edly as Stanley says the cherub which ornamented the rest of the temple was not always represented the same for it would not be so if for nothing else than artistic effect. Probably the head was changed in one to represent the lion, in another the man, in another the bull, in another the eagle and most probably in another the ass. Coat of Arms. The York masons preserved the tradition of the composite character of the cherubim for centuries as shown in their coat of arms ; composed probably in the 16th century, where the field is made up of a cross composed of four squares in each quarter counter changed of which are to be found the lion, the eagle, the bull and the man, and supported by two figures representing cherubim and made up of the head and upper body of a man, the legs and lower body of a beast and instead of arms the wings of an eagle. The crest to this coat of arms is the ark, and in the earliest representations that have come down to us the ark is in the shape of a boat. This was so with the Egyptian arks. Of course, these arms have nothing to do with the grant of arms made by Hawkeslowe in 1472 to all the craft of Masonry. The herald who gave these arms knew nothing of the symbolism of the fraternity. The Masons afterward added two columns with globes, as supporters, and changed the chevron indented to a plain one, making it a square. These arms are described as, sable a chevron indented between three castles argent; crest, a castle towered and walled proper. The Mason's Company of London changed the black shield to blue ; crest, a towered and walled castle. The original grant of arms to the " Hole Crafte and Fellowship of Masons " dated the twelfth year of Edward IV (1472-1473) from William Hawkeslowe, Clarenceux king of arms, is now in the British Museum. No crest is mentioned in the grant, although one is painted in the margin with the arms as follows : Sable on a chevron engrailed between three square castles triple towered argent, masoned of the first, a pair of compasses extended sable. Crest, on a wreath argent and sable, a castle as in the arms, but more orna- mented. This grant was confirmed by Thomas Banolt, Clarenceux, 12th Henry VIII or 1520-21, and entered in the visitation of London made by Henry St. George, Richmond herald, in 1634. The motto is, In the Lord is all our trust. On a MS. Roll dated 1686 these arms are given with the plain chevron and three towers instead of the three castles, also on a MS. Roll dated 1686. The Masons Company in 1633 also bore the same arms. Individual Free Masons having no family arms had the above variations of the coat of arms carved upon their monuments, for many Master Masons were rich and their families able to afford monuments of note. 398 Rossiana. The "Athol " Grand Lodge took the other arms mentioned, with the cherubim as supporters as their emblem; which had been in use, for many years by the lodge at York. These arms Dermott blasons as follows : Quarterly per squares, counterchanged vert. In the first quarter, azure, a lion rampant or. In the second quarter, or, an ox passant sable, In the third quarter, or, a man with hands erect proper robed crimson and ermine. In the fourth quarter, azure an eagle displayed, or. Crest, the holy ark of the covenant proper supported by cheubim. Motto KODES LA' ADONAI. A banner in the possession of the Lodge of York, used in 1776, has these arms upon it. A seal and counter seal used in 1776, and evidently much older, has on the seal these arms and the cross is made of four distinct mason's squares very clearly cut. The counter seal has three crowns. I think the seal can easily go back to 1600 or 1598. There is also a painting on wood of these arms said to go back to the 17th century but which I would say did not go farther back than 1720. These latter arms have been assumed by the Grand Lodge of New York. The Stone Masons of Germany, a branch of the Compagnonage or Free- masonry which probably in its organization changed less than any other branch, had as arms a blue shield with a globe or ball in the centre; towards the centre of which one point of each of four compasses is directed. This shield is surmounted by an ornamented helmet (open full faced). Crest, out of a coronet, gemmed, issues a demi eagle displayed, a pen in his beak, in a circle surrounding the head are the words S. Johannes Evangelista. This design was used by the German Masons in 1515 and most probably in 1300. ROSE CROSS DEGREE. The following document may lie of interest to the school in Masonry which considers Masonic degrees a modern invention and that the occult degrees are of recent origin. This is a document of a Masonic Rose Cross degree giving the seal which every Mason of learning will easily understand, and dated 1794. This Rose Cross order or degree was evidently old at this time. These persons were gentlemen and evidently men of learning. I have this degree in manuscript, I believe, or a large part of it. It forms what is known as Three Times Illustrious Rosy Cross Master Mason of that Rite, known as the Rite of honorary Masonry, or Knights of the Golden Cord: In the name of^lTl^K T) "1 I")*! the True and only God Manifested in Trinity. I, Sigismund Bacstrom, do hereby promise, in the most sincere and solemn manner, faithfully to observe the following articles, during the whole course of my natural life, to the best of my knowledge and ability ; which articles I hereby confirm by oath and by my proper signature hereunto annexed. One of the worthy members of the august, most ancient, and most learned Society, the Investigators of Divine, Spiritual, and Natural Truth (which society more than two centuries and a half ago (z. c, in 1490) did separate themselves from the Free-Masons, but were again united in one spirit among themselves under the denomination of Fratres Rosa Cruris, Brethren of the Rosy Cross, 1. e., the Brethren who believe in the Grand Atonement made by Jesus Christ on the Rosy Cross, stained and marked with His blood, for Ancient Freemasonry. 399 the redemption of Spiritual Natures), having thought me worthy to be admitted into their august society, in quality of a Member Apprentice and Brother, and to partake of their sublime knowledge, I do hereby engage in the most solemn manner — i. That I will always, to the utmost of my power, conduct myself as becomes a worthy member, with sobriety and piety, and to endeavour to prove myself grateful to the Society for so distinguished a favour as I now receive, during the whole course of my natural life. 2. That derision, insult, and persecution of this august society may be guarded against, I will never openly publish that I am a member, nor reveal Early Seal of Rosicrucian Masonry. the name or person of such members as I know at present or may know hereafter. 3. I solemnly promise that I will never during my whole life publicly reveal the secret knowledge I receive at present, or may receive at a future period from the Society, or from one of its members, nor even privately, but will keep our Secrets sacred. 4. I do hereby promise that I will instruct for the benefit of good men, before I depart this life, one person, or two persons at most, in our secret knowledge, and initiate and receive such person (or persons) as a member or apprentice into our Society, in the same manner as I have been initiated and received; but such person only as I believe to be truly worthy and of 400 Rossiana. an upright, well-meaning mind, blameless conduct, sober life, and desirous of knowledge. And as there is no distinction of sexes in the Spiritual World, neither among the Blessed Angels, nor among the rational immortal Spirits of the human race ; and as we have had a Semiramis, Queen of Egypt ; a Myriam, the prophetess; a Peronella, the wife of Flammel ; and, lastly, a Leona Constantia, Abbess of Clermont, who was actually received as a practical member and master into our Society in the year 1736; which women are believed to have been all possessors of the Great Work, conse- quently Sororcs Roses Cruris, and members of our Society by possession, as the possession of this our Art is the key to the most hidden knowledge; and, moreover, as redemption was manifested to mankind by means of a woman (the Blessed Virgin), and as Salvation, which is of infinitely more value than our whole Art, is granted to the female sex as well as to the male, our Society does not exclude a worthy woman from being initiated, God himself not having excluded women from partaking of every felicity in the next life. We will not hesitate to receive a worthy woman into our Society as a member apprentice (and even as a practical member, or master, if she does possess our work practically, and has herself accomplished it), provided she is found, like Peronella, Flammel's wife, to be sober, pious, discreet, prudent, and reserved, of an upright and blameless conduct, and desirous of knowledge. 5. I do hereby declare that I intend, with the permission of God, to commence our great work with mine own hands as soon as circumstances, health, opportunity, and time will permit; 1st, that I may do good therewith as a faithful steward ; 2nd, that I may merit the continued confidence which the Society has placed in me in quality of a member apprentice. 6. I do further most solemnly promise .that (should I accomplish the Great Work) I will not abuse the great power entrusted to me by appearing great and exalted, or seeking to appear in a public character in the world by hunting after vain titles of nobility and vain glory, which are all fleeting and vain, but will endeavour to live a sober and orderly life, as becomes every Christian, though not possessed of so great a temporal blessing; I will devote a considerable part of my abundance and superfluity (multipliable infinitely to work of private charity), to aged and deeply-afflicted people, to poor children, and, above all, to such as love God and act uprightly, and I will avoid encouraging laziness and the profession of public beggars. 7. I will communicate every new or useful discovery relating to our work to the nearest member of our Society, and hide nothing from him, seeing he cannot, as a worthy member, possibly abuse it, or prejudice me thereby; on the other hand, I will hide these secret discoveries from the world. 8. I do, moreover, solemnly promise (should I become a master and possessor) that I will not, on the one hand, assist, aid, or support with gold or with silver any government, King, or Sovereign, whatever, except by pay- ing taxes, nor, on the other hand, any populace, or particular set of men, to enable them to revolt against the government; I will leave public affairs and arrangements to the government of God, who will bring about the events foretold in the revelation of St. John, which are fast accomplishing; I will not interfere with affairs of government. Ancient Freemasonry. 401 9. I will neither build churches, chapels, nor hospitals, and such public charities, as there is already a sufficient number of such public buildings and institutions, if they were only properly applied and regulated. I will not give any salary to a priest or churchman as such, to make him more proud and insolent than he is already. If I relieve a distressed worthy clergyman, I will consider him in the light of a private distressed individual only. I will give no charity with the view of making my name known to the world, but will give my alms privately and secretly. 10. I hereby promise that I will never be ungrateful to the worthy friend and brother who initiated and received me, but will respect and oblige him as far as lies in my power, in the same manner as he has been obliged to promise to his friend who received him. 11. Should I travel either by sea or by land, and meet with any person who may call himself a Brother of the Rosy Cross, I will examine him whether he can give me a proper explanation of The Universal Fire of Nature, and of our magnet for attracting and magnifying the same under the form of a salt, whether he is well acquainted with our work, and whether he knows the universal dissolvent and its use. If I find him able to give satisfactory answers, I will acknowledge him as a member and brother of our Society. Should I find him superior in knowledge and experience to myself, I will honour and respect him as a master above me. 12. If it should please God to permit me to accomplish our Great Work with my own hands, I will give praise and thanks to God in humble prayer, and devote my time to the doing and promoting all the good that lies in my power, and to the pursuit of true and useful knowledge. 13. I do hereby solemnly promise that I will not encourage wickedness and debauchery, thereby offending God by administering the medicine for the human body, or the aiintni potabile, to a patient, or patients, infected with the venereal disease. 14. I do promise that I will never give the Fermented Metallic Medicine for transmutation to any person living, no, not a single grain, unless the person is an initiated and received member and Brother of the Rosy Cross. To keep faithfully the above articles as I now receive them from a worthy member of our Society, as he received them himself, I willingly agree, and sign this with my name, and affix my seal to the same. So help me God. Amen. S. Bacstrom, L.S. I have initiated and received Mr. Sigismund Bacstrom, Doctor of Physic, as a practical member and brother above an apprentice in consequence of his solid learning, which I certify by my name and seal. — Mauritius, 12 Sept. 1794. du Chazel, F.R.C. KNIGHTS OF THE AMARANTH. IX view of the fact that Colonel James Read's son, Chevalier James Read, was made a Knight of the Amaranth by the Queen of Sweden, it will not be out of place to give a short history of this most exclusive order of knighthood. The order was instituted by Queen Christine, daughter of Gustavus Adolphus the Great, in 1655. The ceremonies of the institution were as follows : The Queen, seating herself on her throne, made the gentlemen who had been chosen to be created knights approach her, accom- panied by their sponsors. When they had knelt before her she took each one by the hand, one by "lie. and made them swear that they would be faithful to her interests and, if necessary, that they would defend her in- terests. Then she placed on the shoulders of each a silk mantle with the badge of the order on the left side. The same badge in the form of a costly jewel of gold and diamonds attached to a riband of blue was hung about their necks. Then the knights arose, thanked her and retired. The badge and jewel were both of the same form; the jewel was a wreath of laurel held together with a white riband ■ in which were these words: " Dolce nella illemoria." In the centre of the wreath of laurel was to be found two A's inter- This monogram was incrusted However, in the portrait of Decoration of the Order of the Amaranth. laced, one up and the other reversed with diamonds and precious stones. James Lampadin's envoy of the Princes Frederick and Christian-Louis of Brunswick and Lunebourg, at the peace of Minister, one remarks that he wears a chain around his neck made of many interlaced A's and escutcheons of arms, with another little chain attached to the larger chain on the right side, to which was a little horse pendant. Therefore one may be sure that there was a chain of the order from which hung the jewel, or that there were a few who held office and wore the chain and horse. Knights of the Amaranth. 403 The Queen made knights of foreign gentlemen and sent to distinguished personages of other nations patents giving them the order. Among the first knights were Vladislas, King of Poland; Charles Gustave, after King of Sweden, his brother Adolphe-John ; George, Duke of Saxony; the Landgrave of Hesse and a number of others, as, for instance, Count de Montecuculi ; Don Antonio Pimental ; and Balfstod Whiteloc, an English Earl. This was the occasion chosen by the Queen to institute this order : It was a custom in Sweden to celebrate every year at Stockholm a feast or cele- bration which was called Wirtschaft, as one might say, a feast of friends. At this celebration every one put on his or her best clothes and passed the whole time dancing and making merry. At one of these popular celebrations the Queen prepared a splendid hall and invited all the court to come dressed as gods and goddesses. The festival lasted all night and the guests were served by young and beautiful boys and girls dressed as nymphs and shep- herds, and at the end of the feast the Queen ordered all to throw their disguises into the fire and to reappear in their court clothes. She then called the feast the Amaranth, the name she had taken during her disguise. She then and there instituted the Order of the Amaranth, giving to each gentleman and lady the beautiful jewel as a perpetual remembrance. ANCIENT HERALDIC AND CHIVALRIC ORDER OF ALBION OR KNIGHTS OF THE CON- VERSION OF THE TWENTY- THREE KINGS. AS General Meredith Read was Governor-General of the Order of Albion, and as I have succeeded him in that office, as well as the fact that tradition states that George Ross, the " Signer," was a knight, and Hon. John Ross, Governor-General and Captain of the order. I have thought that it would lie of interest to the various members of the family to give as much of the history of that venerable order and its constitution as possible. The Ancient Heraldic and Chivalric Ordek of the Knights of Albion or Knights of the Conversion of the 23 Kings. Flag: Yellow silk upon which i> depicted the open Gospel surmounted by a hand dexter issuing from edge holding a sword erect surmounted by a crown ail red. This Order was instituted originally in 1643 in America by Sir Edmund Plowden, of distinguished English ancestry, for the conversion of the twenty- three Indian tribes comprised within the grant of the extensive territory designated as new Albion. Sir Edmund Plowden was by grant of King Charles I, at the same period, created "Lord Earl Palatine of New Albion;" which comprised portions of what are now New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland and Virginia. Much of the history of the Order and its original members, together with designs representing its seal, medal insignia and ribbon, is to be found among the historical manuscripts and early documentary history of the States of Pennsylvania and Delaware, as well as in recent valuable publications of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. After the settlement of the Swedes and Dutch and the formation of their colonies and consequent changes of government, the Order became officially inactive. Tradition, however, states on good authority that the descendants of the original members kept up the organization of the Order as a secret associa- tion of gentlemen long after the American Revolution ; members being also admitted to the Society from time to time who were not descendants of the original members of the Order, a large number being admitted by Sir Charles Varlo. After the great conflict was ended the members who then remained in the Society formed part of that brilliant entourage of Hamilton, and with the other conservative elements of the time — such as the Cincinnati — con- tributed greatly to the stability of the new and independent government then established and which later Society was the natural sequence of this, its venerable historical predecessor under the English crown. Order of the Knights of Albion, etc. 405 This Order lingered for many years in a more or less moribund condition until i Rossiana. Rede (Ashmans, co. Suffolk: Robert Rede, Esq., of Ashmans. assumed the surname of Rede, in lieu of his patronymic Cooper, on inheriting the estates of his maternal uncle, Robert Rede. Esq.). Az. on a bend wavy or. three Cornish choughs ppr. a bordure engr. ar. charged with torteaux and hurts alternately. Crest — A buck's head erased az. attired or, betw. two palm branches gold, charged on the neck with three bars gemelles also gold. Motto — Avi numerantur avorum. Rede (Middle Temple, London). Per pale or and ar. a cross botonnee fitchee betw. four fleurs-de-lis sa. Rede. Az. a griffin segreant volant or. supporting an oak branch vert, acorned of the second; another. Per pale or and a/, a cross botonnee fitchee sa. betw. four fleurs-de-lis counterchanged. Rede, or Rythe. Per pale gu. and. sa a cross botonnee fitchee betw. four fleurs-de-lis or. Rede. Az. on a bend wavy or. three bitterns sa. membered gu. a bordure engr. ar. pellettee; another. Gu. a bend fusily erm. ; another, Ar. a chev. vert betw. three fleurs-de-lis gu. in chief a torteau ; another. Per pale sa. and gu. guttee d'or, a cross moline fitchee of the last; another. A/, three termails or; another. Az. three bezants; another. Az. three fusils in fess or. Reed (Troughend, co. Northumberland, Prestwick Lodge, Newcastle-upon Tyne, and Chipchase Castle, same co.). Or. on a chev. betw. three garbs gu. as many ears of corn ar. Crest — A griffin ramp. or. Reede (Wembury, co. Devon). See Ui am:. Reede ( co. Gloucester). Az. guttee d'or, a cross formee fitchee of the last. Reede. Per pale gll. and sa. a cross botonnee fitchee ar. betw. four lleurs- de-lis. or. Crest — A fleur-de-lis or. Reede. Per pale wavy ar. and sa. three crescents counterchanged; another. Gu. on a bend or. three shovellers sa. membered of the field. Crest — A hand holding a lance in pale ppr. Reid (Pitfoddles, co. Aberdeen). Quarterly, 1st and 4th. ar. a chev. az. betw. two mullets in chief and a cross crosslet in base gu. ; _'nd and 3rd. or. a fess chequy az. and ar.. for Stewart. Reid (Birnes, co. Aberdeen, 167 2). As the last. Crest — A hand issuing from a cloud holding a book expanded ppr. Motto — Virtute et labore. Reid (Collision, en. Fife). Ar. an eagle displ. (sometimes blazoned with two heads) sa. beaked and membered or, charged on tin- breast with an escutcheon of the last. Reid (London. 1740). As the last, with a crescent in chief for diff. Crest — An eagle volant ppr. Motto — In sublime. Reid (Straloch; the family arms of General Read, Founder of the Music (."hair in Edinburgh University). Quarterly, 1st and 4th. ar. an eagle displ. ,l;u. 1 leaked and armed az., for Reid; 2nd and .pal. gu. a dagger erect in pale ppr. betw. three wolves' heads erased ar., for ROBERTSON. Crest — A demi eagle displ. as in the arms. Motto — bortitudine et labore, Descriptions of Arms of Read and Ross. 408E Reid (Blegbie, Scotland. 1767). Ar. on a chev. betw. two eagles displ. in chief, beaked and membered gu. and a buck's head erased in base of the last. a cross crosslet litchee betw. two mullets or. Crest — A dexter arm issuing from a cloud holding a book expanded ppr. Motto — Fortitudine et labore. Reid (Barra, co. Aberdeen, hart.. 1706). Az. a stag's head erased or. Crest — A pelican in her nest feeding her young ppr. Motto — Nihil amanti durum. Reid (Ewell Grove, co. Surrey, hart., 1823). Per saltire erminois and erm. an eagle displ. sa. Crest — A castle ar. surmounted by two spears saltire- ways ppr. points upward. Motto — Firm. Reid (England). Ar. a chev. vert betw. three fleurs-de-lis gu. in chief as many torteaux. Crest — A lion pass, tail extended ppr. Reid (Andrew Reid, Esq., of London, and Lionsdown, co. Hertford). Ar. an eagle displ. sa. on the breast an escutcheon of the first, charged with a border engr. gu. Crest — A cubit arm issuing out of the clouds, holding the Holy Bible open at Job xix. all ppr. leaved or. Reid Seton. See Seton. Reid (granted. 1840. to James Reid, Esq, son of Samuel Reid, Esq., formerly of Newrv, co, Down, and to the other descendants of their ancestor. Hugh Reid, who came from Scotland, settled in the North of Ireland, and d. 1758). Per chev. ar. and or. an eagle displ. with two heads sa. in chief two thistles ppr. Crest — An eagle displ. with two heads sa. gorged with an Eastern crown or. Motto — Spectemur agendo. Reid (Dublin; allowed by Betham, Ulster, 1830, to Robert Reid. Esq., M. D., of Dublin, and Henry Reid Esq., of Phibbleston, cos. Dublin, son of Rev. James Read, of Midleton, co. Cork, who was grandson of Andrew Reid, of co, Dumfries, who settled in Ireland). Quarterly, 1st and 4th, ar. ,111 eagle displ. sa. charged on the breast with an escutcheon gu. ; 2nd and 3rd. or, on a saltire az. nine lozenges of the first. Crest — • Issuant from a rock a cubit dexter arm holding a bill all ppr. Motto — Firm. Rhead or Read: Arms — gules a saltire between three sheaves of Reeds or. Crest — A griffin segreant or claws gules. Motto — T will defend. Read or Rede: Azure three birds or. Crest — A boar proper. Supporters — Two dogs. Read or Reod (Australia). Gules a saltire between four garbs or. Crest — A falcon upon a lot;, rising belled and fessed or. Motto — Cedant arma toga?. Supporters — Two horses argent. Reed. — Gules a saltire between four reeds or. Crest — A griffin segreant azure armed gules. Read. — Gules a chevron between three garbs of Reeds or. Crest — A demi griffin rampant or. Motto — God for us. 408F Rossiana. ROSS. Ross (borne by Sir John Ross, C. B., Capt. R. N. so distinguished for his discoveries in the Arctic Regions). Gu. three estoiles in chev. betw. as many lions ramp. ar. — for augmentation, a chief or. thereon a portion of the terrestrial globe ppr. the true meridian described thereon by a line passing from north to south sa. with the Arctic circle az. within which the place of the magnetic pole in latitude 70° 5' 17" and longitude 96 46' 45" west, designated by an inescutcheon gu. charged with a lion pass, guard, of the first; the magnetic meridian shown by a line of the fourth passing through the escutcheon with a correspondent circle, also gu. to denote more par- ticularly the said place of the magnetic pole; the words following inscribed on the chief, viz., "Arctseos Numine Fines." Crests — 1st, Ross: A fox's head erased ppr.; 2nd: On a rock a flagstaff erect, thereon hoisted the union jack, inscribed with the date, 1st June. 1831 (being that of discovering the place of the magnetic pole), and at foot, and on the sinister side of the flagstaff, the dipping-needle, showing its almost vertical position, all ppr. Ross (Lamer Park, co. Hereford). Sa. three padlocks or, in fess, an escutcheon of the last betw. two swords erect ppr. hilts and pommels gold, the escutcheon charged with a boar's head erased gu. betw. three water bou- gets of the first. Crest — A branch of laurel erect ppr. Ross. See of (Scotland). Ar. a bishop standing in the sinister habited in a long robe close girt purp. mitred, bidding in his left hand a crozier or, and pointing with bis right to St. Boniface on the dexter side clothed and both hands laid on bis breast ppr. Ross (/:'(/;•/ of AV.s-.s-, extinct, Scotland). Gu. three lions ramp. ar. Crest — An eagle displ. Supporters — Two lions. ^ Ross (Balnagowan, co. Ross, bart). Gu. three lions rami), ar. (formerly within a bordure of the last). Crest — A N hand bidding a garland of laurel ppr. Supporters — Two savages wreathed head and middle with laurel ppr. Motto — Spem successus alit. Ross (Kindace, co. Ross). Gu. three lions ramp. ar. within a bordure counter-company of the second and first. Crest — A fox pass. ppr. Motto — Caute non astute. Ross (Chaki.es Ross, son to Ross, of Kildace, 1672). Gu. three roses slipped ppr. in fess betw. as many lions ramp. ar. Crest — A fox issuant with a rose in his mouth ppr. Motto — Rosam ne rode. Ross (Morinchie, co. Ross). Gu. three lions ramp. betw. as many stars ar. Crest — A fox's head couped ppr. Motto — Spes aspera levat. Ross (Knockbreck, co. Ross. 1672). Gu. a bear's head couped ar. muzzled of the first betw. three lions ramp, of the second. Motto — Time Deum. Ross (Pitcalnie, Pitkearie, co. Ross). Gu. three lions ramp. ar. within a bordure counter-compony or and of the first. Motto — Xou opes sed ingenium. Ross (Priesthill, 1767). Gu. three lions ramp, within a bordure ar. Crest — A dexter band holding a garland of laurel ppr. Motto — Nobilis est ira leonis. Descriptions of Arms of Read and Ross. 408G Ross (Balkaill, 1773). Gu. three stars in chev. betw. as many lions ramp, ar. Crest — A fox's head erased ppr. Motto — Spes aspera levat. Ross (Millcraig, co. Ross, 1795). Gu. three lions ramp. ar. on a chief or, three legs conjoined in the upper part of the thigh and flexed in triangle az. Crest — A lymphad, her oars in action ppr. flagged gu. Motto — Pro patria. Ross (Lord Ross, of Halkhead). Quarterly, 1st and 4th, or, a chev. chequy sa. and ar. betw. three water bougets of the second, for Ross ; 2nd and 3rd, gu. three crescents ar. within a bordure of the last charged with eight roses of the field, for Melville. Crest — A hawk's head erased or. Supporters — Two goshawks belled or. Motto — Think on. Ross (Nuick, 1672). Same Anns, within a bordure invecked sa. Ross (Henning, co. Ayr). Or, a chev. counter-embattled betw. three water bougets sa. Ross (Portivoe and Ireland, 1681). Or, or on a chev. counier-embattled betw. three water bougets sa. a thistle slipped of the field betw. two cinque- foils erm. Crest — A rose tree hearing roses ppr. Motto — Floreat qui laborat. Ross (Craigie, 16th century). Or, a fess chequy ar. and sa. betw. three water bougets of the last. Ross (Bishop of Argyll, 1676). Or, a chev. chequy sa. and ar. betw. three water bougets of the second, in the honour point a rose slipped gu. barbed and stalked vert. Motto — Christo suavis odor. Ross, or Rose (Auchlossin, co. Aberdeen). Or, a boar's head couped gu. betw. three water bougets sa. a bordure of the last. Crest — A water bouget sa. Motto — Agnoscar eventu. Ross (Professor of Oriental Languages, Aberdeen, 1779). Or, a boar's head couped gu. between three water bougets sa. a bordure of the last charged in chief and base with three padlocks ar. and in the flanks with two swords erected ppr. hilted and pommelled of the field. Crest — A sprig of laurel in flower ppr. Motto — Agnoscar eventu. Ross (Poland, 1786). Or, a lion's head couped gu. betw. three water bougets sa. a bordure of the last charged with three crescents ar. Crest — A water bouget az. Motto — Agnoscar eventu. Ross (Leith-Ross, of Arnage, co. Aberdeen, 1803). Quarterly. 1st and 4th grand quarters, or, three water bougets and a bordure sa., for Ross; 2nd and 3rd grand quarters, counterquartered, 1st and 4th, or, a cross cross- let fitchee sa. betw. three crescents in chief and as many fusils in base gu. a bordure az , for Leith, 2nd and 3rd, az. a hart trippant or, attired and unguled gu., for Strachan. Crest — On a cap of maintenance a water bouget sa. Mottoes — Over the crest: Agnoscar eventu; below the shield: Virtue have virtue. Ross (Kintore, co. Aberdeen, 1810). Or, on a chev. az. betw. three water bougets sa. as many boars' heads couped of the field. Crest — A dove hold- ing an olive branch in its mouth ppr. Motto — Virtus ad astra tendit. 4o8h Rossicma. Ross-of-Bladensburg (Rcsstrevor, co. Down). Or. a chev. embattled counter-embattled betw. three water bougets sa., with an honourable augmen- tation granted for the service of the late General Robert Ross, who gained the battle of Bladensburg. Crests — i st : An arm embowed in armour, the hand grasping a dagger all ppr. ; 2nd: An arm in a General's uniform issuant out of a mural crown, and grasping the broken flagstaff of the standard of the United States all ppr. Motto — Per aspera virtus; also. Bladensburg. Ross (Ardnalea Craigavad, co. Down; granted to William Augustine Ross. Esq., of that place, son of William Ross. Esq., of Clonard Lodge, and to their descendants). Or. a fess gu. betw. two water bougets in chief sa. and in base a tower a/. Crest — On a mural crown gu. charged with a water bouget or, a falcon's head erased ppr. Motto — Floret qui laborat Index. INDEX. A Abbacy of Fearn, memoranda by Gen. Meredith Read relative to 133 Albion, origin and constitution of Order of 400 Aldie, Rovs branch of 51 Alexander, Earl of Ross and Lord of the Isles 8 Allan. Monro of, account of 134 Allerton, Isaac (b. 1583), descendants of 345 Amaranth, origin of Order of the 398 American flag, Betsey Ross and the 190 Ancient Abingdon, description of 242 Ancient Earls of Ross. (See Earls of Ross.) Ancient Freemasonn . account of 381 Ancient funeral customs in Scotland 139 Ancient Kings of Wales, Cadwalader descent from 341, 343 Ancient Redesdale, description of 203 Ancient Royal house of Scotland, Ross and Read descent from. .. .181, 182 Ancient tradition of the origin of the arms of Read 201 Ankerville and Easterfearn, Ross branches of 25 Annat, Ross of and in 55 Ardgye, Ross in 56 Arm-. (See " Coats-of-Arms." ) Armstrong. Edward, Esq., letters to Gen. Meredith Read relative to Shandwick succession 101. 103 Athlumney, Lord, letter to the compiler, 1907, relative to Meredyth pedigree 330 Autobiography of Rev. George Ross (1679-1754) 156 B Balblair and Balnagown Castle in 1881 150 Balblair. Ross branch of 44 American descendants of 153 arms of .' 83, 84, 183 Balblair in 1881 150 connection with Monro of Allan 134 correspondence concerning 130 descent from Royal house of Scotland 182 Ballintraid, Ross of and in 56 Ballivat, Ross of 56 Ballone. Balon or Bellon, Ross of and in 57 412 Index. Balmachy, Ross branch of 40. 78 descent of, from the Royal house of Scotland 182 memoranda relative to 44 Balnagown Castle, visit to 150 Balnagown, Ross line of 8, 78 arms of 83, 89 descent from the Royal house of Scotland 182, [83 1 ''iii mets of Brocket I Ia.ll, descent of 259, 260 (See. also. Read of Brocket Hall.) Baronets of Shipton Court, chart of 253 descent of 254-259 (See. also, Reade, or Read, of Shipton Court.) Barton Court, defense of 237 ruins of 236 visit of Gen. Meredith Read tO 239 l'..i i ion Court descent fn >m \\v*\^ of Tn >ughend 249 Barton Manor, description of 235 Beedon Manor, description of 236 Bell, Edmund EL, letter to Gen. .Meredith Read, relative to descendants of Ri i Georgi Ross (1679- 1754) " |J Betsej Ross and the American flag 1.0 Borstal! de-cent from \--. Parish 01 Rosskeen, Ross branch of 54 Clan of Rede, or Read, pedigree of 220 Clan of Ross, origin of 00 Clan system, origin of 91 Index. 413 Coats-of-arms, description of: Baiblair, Ross of 83. 84. 1 S3 Balnagown, Ross of S3, 89 Bushnell family 36=5 Cadwalader family 344 Carron d'Allondans family 312, 373 Carpenter family 340 Craft of Masonry 397 Drake family 367 Foras family ^1 ^ Freeman family J4S Gurney, Captain Henry 177 Invercharron, Ross of 85 John, Earl of Ross and Lord of the Isles 88 Kindeace, Malcolm Ross of 87 Lord Ros (or Rose) 89 Marshall family 348 Meredith family 332 Monro of Allan 1 ?4 Pillard family ^7 3 Priesthill, Ross of 84 Pumpeily family 364 Read. Colonel John (1688-1756) 267 Read, General John Meredith (1837-1896) 313 Read, Sir John, of Brocket Hall 368 Read. Sir Thomas (d. 1575), of Barton Court 250 Rede of Troughhend 197, 198, 202 Rede, Sir Edmund [59, 25 1 Reed of the Cragg 199 Reed (or Read) of Heathpool and Hoppen 199 Ross, Alexander (1659-1722) 81. 87 Ross. Charles (d. 1708) 62. 87 Ross. Lieut. David (1755-1799) 36. 87 Ro-,-,, David, of Priesthill (d. 1781) 58, 87 Ross, Earls of 83, 89, 130 • Ross. George (d. 1703). of Morangie 70. 87 Ross, John ( 1 714-1776) 83, 167 Shandwick, Ross of 31, 83. 98. 101, 109, 183 United States of America 191 Warren family 346 Waterman family 347 York Masons 397 Connection between Ross of Baiblair and Monro of Allan 134 Cook, Francis, descendants of 347 Correspondence: Armstrong. Edward, Esq.. to Gen. Meredith Read. 1873. relative to Shandwick succession 101. 103 414 Index. Corresp< mdence : Bell. Edmund H., to Gen. Meredith Read, relative to descendants of Rev. George Ross (1679-1754") •■ 162 Dodgson. Rev. Charles, to Earl of Northumberland, 1762, relative to Elsdon parish • • 210 same to Mr. Percy, 1762. relative to Elsdon parish 209 Dubbs, Rev. Joseph Henry, answering query relative to descendants of Geprge Ri iss, the Signer 165 Earl of Argyll to Lady Balnagown, relative to Lord Lovat 12S Earl of Sutherland, the Laird of Balnagown and others to the Land of Findressie, 1638. relative to the service hook 128 Eshleman, George Ross, Esq., to the compiler. 1907. relative to descendants of Rev. George Ross (1679 17541 170 Eshleman. Mrs. David G. answering query relative to descendants of George Ross, the Signer 165 Forbes. Duncan, to Alexander Ross of Pitcalnie. 1745. relative to his son Malcolm's folly 128, 129 Goodrell, Truxtun, Esq., to the compiler, [908, relative to the descendants of William Read (1823-1884") 273 Jefferson, Thomas, to Gen. Samuel Meredith, 1S01. regretting hit- ter's retirement 335 Jones. Lev. James M., to Duke of Sutherland. 1877. relative to Dunrobin manuscripts 44 King George I. of Greece to Gen. Meredith Read. [893, relative to coat-of-arms 313 Lord Athlumney and Meredyth to the compiler, 1907. relative to Meredith pedigree 330 Mackenzie. John Whitefoord, Esq., to Gen. Meredith Read. 1873, relative to Shandwick succession 102 same to same, [873, relative to Ross of Balblair 132 Monro, David, of Allan, to Gen. Meredith Read. 1888. relative to Monro of Allan and Ross of Balblair 135 Monro. Elizabeth, to Gen. Meredith Read. [888, relative to the death of Leila Monro 137 same to same, 1890, introducing Mrs. Fraser 138 Monro, Leila, to Gen. Meredith Read, 1S8S, relative to Monro of Allan and Ross of Balblair 135, 136 Norton, Alvah, to Dr. Meredith Maxwell. 1877. describing Gen. Samuel Meredith 336 Plumstead. Clementina Ross, to Gen. Meredith Read, relative to Ross family tree 106, 107 Queen Alexandra of England to Gen. Meredith Read. [879, extend- ing greetings 314 Read, Alice, to the compiler. 1907. relative to descendants of George Read. 4th (1812-1859) 293 Read, Gen. Meredith, to Frances Nevile Reid. 1892, relative to descendants of Rev. George Ross (1679-1754) 162 Index. 415 Correspi mdence: Read, General Meredith, relative to descendants of Rev. George Ross (1679-1754): same to Stuart & Cheyne, Edinburgh, relative to Shandwick succession 104,109. in same to William M. Evarts, Secretary of State. 1877, relative to Russian grain trade 3°6 Reid. Francis Xevile, Esq., to Gen. Meredith Read, 1892. relative to descendants of Rev. George Ross (1679-1754) 161, 162 Ross, Catherine, of Pitcalnie, to Gen. Meredith Read, 1882, relative to visit of his son 1 18 same to same, 1884, relative to death of Ross of Pitcalnie.... 118 Ross, Hon. John (1714-1776). to Dr. Gordon. 1763. relative to Ross of Shandwick 97 Ross. Hugh, of Shandwick. to David Ross, writer in Edinburgh. 1764. relative to American Rosses 98 same to Hon. John Ross ( 1714-1776), of Philadelphia. 1764. relative to Balblair descent 98 Ross. Rev. George (1679-1754), to his son. John Ross ( 1714-1776) . . 156 Stodart. R. R., Esq.. Edinburgh, to Gen. Meredith Read. 1872-3. relative to Ross of Balblair 130. 131 same to same, relative to Shandwick succession 102, 103 Stuart & Cheyne. Edinburgh, to Gen. Meredith Read, 1873-5, rela- tive to Shandwick succession 102-105, TI °- IIT ! IT 3 Tinkham. Mrs. Harriet G.. to Mrs. James Kidd. relative to old Drake church 37° Crawfurd. George, genealogy of Earls of Ross by 99- irj 8 Cushman, Robert, (1580-1625). descendants of 345 D " Death of Parcy Reed," ancient ballad 213 Death of Ross of Pitcalnie, chief of the Clan of Ross 119 Decadence of Llangunllo. Wales 3-7 Decoration of the Order of the Amaranth 398 Descendants of: Allerton, Isaac (b. 1583) 345 Bradford, Avenel de 349 Bradford. Major William ( 1500 1' 57 I 34'J Carbry Riada 231 Carpenter. Samuel (b. 1649) 340 Carron d'Allondans 37 2 Cook. Francis 347 Cushman. Robert ( 1580-1625) 345 Drake. Rev. Reuben ( 1745- 1793) 366 Earls of Ross 2-82. 99, 108 Foras family 376 41 6 Index. Descendants of: Freeman. Edmund ( 1590-1682) 34^ John of Gaunt 262 Kings of Dalriada 230 Kings of Wales (Cadwalader family) 341, 343 Madog ap Meredith, Prince of Powis 3 2 9 Marshall, Thomas (d. 1689) 34§ Meredith, Samuel (1741-1X17) 329 Monro of Allan 134 Nigel, the Forester of Borstall 25 2 Pumpelly, Charles 1 1 77' i- 1 855 ) 360 Pumpelly. Harmon (1795 [882) 363 Pumpelly, Harriet (1791-1862) 363 Pumpelly, James (1775-1845) 359 Pumpelly. John (1727-1X10) 357 Pumpelly, Maria (1786-1855) 361 Pumpelly. William (1788-1876) 3''-' Read-'. Sir Compton (1626-1679), firs! Baronet of Shipton Court.. 254 Reade, Sir Edward (1659-1691), second Baronet of Shipton Court.. 255 Reade, Sir Thomas (1684-1752), fourth Baronel of Shipton Court.. 256 Reade. Sir John (1721-17731. fifth Baronet of Shipton Court -'5') Reade, Sir John (1762 17X0). sixth Baronet of Shipton Court 2^7 Reade. Sir John Chandos (1785 [868), seventh Baronet of Shipton G >urt ■ • 258 Reade. Sir George Compton (b. [845), ninth and present Baronet of Shipton Court 255 Read. George (1733 C798), the Signer 269 Read. George, 2d (1765-1836) 270 Read, George, 3<\ (1788 1X371 271 Read. Georg< 4th (1812-1859) 272 Read. George, 5th (b. 1847) -'75 Read. James ( 1 743- 1X22 ) . 270 Read, John (1688-1756) 269 Read, John (1769-1854) 270 Read. John Meredith (1797-1874) 272 Read. John Meredith (1837-1896) 274 Read. John Meredith (b. [869) 274 Read. Richard ( 1579-1659) 261 Read. Sir John (1617-1694), first Baronet of Brocket Hall 259 Read. Sir James (1655-1701). second Baronet of Brocket Hall.... 260 Read. William ( 1767- 1846) 270 Read. William ( 1X23-1X84) 273 Rede. John, ancestor of Borstall line 251 Rede of Troughend 198. 240 Rede. Thomas, ancestor of the Barton Court line 249 Rede. William (d. 1542). Lord of the Manor of Barton Court.... 250 Ross. Earls of 2-82. 99. 108 Ross. George (1730-1770). the Signer 169 Index. 417 Descendants of: Ross, John (1714-1776) 166 Ross, Rev. George (1679-1754) 159, 163 Royal house of Scotland (Ross and Read families) 181, 183 Van Gezel of Delaware 184, 187 Ward, William, of Maryland 379 Warren, Richard 346 Waterman, Robert (d. 1655 ) 347 Dodgson, Rev. Charles, letters to Mr. Percy and Earl of Northumber- land, relative to Elsdon parish. 1762 209, 210 Dornoch, Nicholas Ross, Burgess of 76 Drake family, arms of 367 John R. (1782-1857), career of 368 descendants of 367 Rev. Reuben (1745- 1793), account of 366 descendants of 366 William, descendants of 366 old Drake church, visit to, 1886 370 Roberts and Learning families, connection with 366 tombstone inscriptions at old Drake church 371 Drake, Roberts and Learning families, chart of 366 Dubbs, Rev. Joseph Henry, letter answering query relative to descend- ants of George Ross, the Signer 165 Dunrobin Castle, visit of Gen. Meredith Read to, 1877 44 E Earl of Sutherland and others, letter to the Laird of Findressie, relative to the Service Book 128 Earl of Argyll, letter to Lady Balnagown, relative to Lord Lovat 128 Earls of Ross: 1. Malcolm, first Earl 2. 155 2. Ferquhard, second Earl 2. [55 3. William, third Earl 2, 155 4. William, fourth Earl 3. 135 5. Hugh, fifth Earl 4. 155 6. William, sixth Earl 6 7. Alexander. Earl of Ross and Lord of the Isles 8 8. John, Earl of Ross and last Lord of the Isles 8 account of, by Francis Nevile Reid, Esq 2-8 arms of • 83-89 chart of descendants of 2 descendants of: Aldie. branch of 51 Ankerville and Easterfearn, branches of 25 Annat. Ross of and in 55 Ardgye, Ross in 56 4i 8 Index. Earls i if Ri >ss : descendants of: Balblair, branch of 44 Ballintraid, Ross of and in 5' 1 Ballivat. Ross of 5 (l Ballone. Balon or Bellon. Ross of and in ?J Balmachy, branch of 4°- 7§ Balnagi iwn, line of 8, jS Brealangwell. branch of 24 Calrossie, branch of 20, 79 Ciulich, or Cunlich, or Cunlichmoir, now called Easter Ardross, Parish of Rosskeen, branch of 54 Dornoch. Nicholas Ross, Burgess of "6 Easterfearn. Ross of 79 Easter Gany, Ross of 60 Edderton, then of Rives and Priesthill, Ross in 57 Fychie, Little Allan and Eye, branch of 53 Invercham >n, line of 21 [nverchasley, branch of 18 first family, -u styled 60 second family. s,i styled So Kincardine. Ross in 60 Kindeace, line of 16 tirst family, so styled 61 second family. SO styled St Kirkskeath, Ross of 62 Knockbreak, Ross of and in 63 Knockgartie, k<>ss of 63 Little Allan and Muldarg, Ross of 55 Little Tarrell, line of 45 Logie Easter, branch of 39 Logy or Logie, Ross of 64 Meddat, Ross of 66 Midfearn or Midfairnie, Ross of 66 Mid Gany. Ross of 59 Morangie, Ross of 66 Muldarg and Little Allan. Ross of 55 Musselburgh, Andrew Ross in 74 Nether Pitkerie. branch of 48 Nicholas Ross. Dyer in Tain, branch of 40 Nonnakiln. branch of 53 Pitcalnie, line of 14 Pitcalzeane. Ross of 7 2 Pitkerie. branch of 47 Pittogarty. Ross of 7^ Priesthill. branch of 29 Rarichies. Ross of and in 73 Index. 4K) Earls i if Ri iss : descendants of: Risollis, Ross of 74 Shandwick, line of 31 Tain, Andrew Ross, Provost of 74 Tain, Benjamin Ross, Bailie of 75 Tain. Donald Ross, Bailie of 75 Tain. William Ross, Bailie of 76. ~]~ Tolly and Achnacloich, line of 27 Tutintarroch, Ross of and in 74 Wester Gany, Ross of 60 Early history of Redesdale 203 Easterfearn, Ross of 79 Easter Gany, Ross of 60 Edderton (then of Rives and Priesthill), Ross in 57 Elsdon parish in 1762, description of 209 Entries in family Bible of John Ross ( 1714-1776) 166 Eshleman. George Ross, Esq., letter to the compiler relative to the descendants of Rev. George Ross ( 1679-1754) 170 Eshleman. Mrs. David G.. letter answering query relative to the descend- ants of George Ross, the Signer 165 Estate of Pitcalnie passes to George R. Williamson Ross 121 F Family charts: Baronets of Shipton Court 253 Drake, Roberts and Learning families 366 Earls of Ross, descendants of 2 Marshall family 348 Mayflower and New England families 345 Pnmpelly family 358 Read family, descendants of Colonel John Read (1688- 1756), of Delaware 269 Ross, Hon. George, the Signer, descendants of 170 Ross, Rev. George (1679-1754), descendants of 159 Ward family of Maryland 378 Ferqnhard. second Earl of Ross 2, 155 First Free Mason among the Reads 200 First United States flag 192 Foras family, descent of 376 Forbes, Duncan, letters to Alexander Ross of Pitcalnie relative to folly of Malcolm Ross 128, 129 Freeman. Edmund (1590-1682), arms of 348 descendants of 348 Freemasonry, ancient 381 Funeral of Hugh Munro of Teaninich in 1703 139 Fychie, Little Allan and Eye, Ross branch of 53 4-20 Index. G Genealogy of the " Antient Earles of Rosse " 99, 108 George I. King of Greece, letter to Gen. Meredith Read, relative to coat-of-arms 313 " Ghost Story of the Revolution *' [74 Ghost story of Tusculum 177 Goodrell. Truxtun, Esq., letter to compiler relative to descendants of William Read I [823-1884) 273 Gurney, Captain I [enry, arms of 177 H History of ancient Abingdon _»4_> Barton Court 235 Clan of Read 201 Clan of R< iSS go Hugh, fifth Earl of Ross 4, [55 I Interesting incident in the family of John Ross 11714-177(1) 179 Envercharron, Ross line of 21 arms of 85 [nverchasley, Ross branch of 18 tir-t family, so styled 60 second family, so styled 80 J John, Earl of Ross and Lord of the tsles 8 Jefferson, President, letter to Gen. Samuel Meredith, regretting latter's retirement 335 Jones, Rev. James M.. letter to Duke of Sutherland, relative to Dun- robin manuscripts 44 K Kidd, Mrs. James, letter from Mrs. Harriet G. Tinkham, relative to old Drake church 370 Kincardine. Ross in 60 Kindeace, Ross line of 16 arms of 87 first family, so styled 61 second family. ~n styled Si King George I, of Greece, letter to Gen. Meredith Read, relative to coat-of-arms 313 Kirkskeath, Ross of 62 Knights of Albion, origin and constitution of 400 Knights of the Amaranth, origin of 398 Knockbreak, Ross of and in 63 Knockgartie, Ross of 63 Index. 421 L Learning family 366 Legend of Sir Reginald Read 205 Lesley, Alexander. Earl of Ross 7 Lines on George Read, the Signer 278 List of guests invited to the funeral of Hugh Munro of Teaninich, 1703. . 139 List of Ross portraits in America 160 Little Allan and Muldarg, Ross of 55 Little Tarrell. Ross line of 45 Llangunllo. Wales, description of ^27 Logie Easter. Ross branch of 39 Logy or Logie. Ross of 64 Lord Athlumney and Meredyth, letter to compiler relative to Meredyth pedigree 330 M MacKenzie. John Whitefoord. Esq.. letter to Gen. Meredith Read, rela- tive to Shandwick succession 102 same to same, relative to Ross of Balblair 132 Malcolm, first Earl of Ross 2, 155 Marshall. Thomas ( d. 1689). arms of 348 descendants of 348 chart of 348 Mayflower and New England families, chart of 345 Allerton 345 Bradford 346 Cook 347 Cushman 345 Freeman 348 Marshal] 348 Warren 346 Waterman 347 McDonald, Alexander, Earl of Ross and Lord of the Isles 7 Meddat, Ross of 66 Meredith in America: Reese, career of 329 descendants of 329 Samuel (1741-1817), appointed United States Treasurer by President Washington 335 career of 329, 222 descendants of 330 Jefferson, President, letter of regret from 335 unveiling of statue at Pleasant Mount 237 ghost story of 339 Meredith of Radnorshire, arm> of 332 Llangunllo. description of 327 Madog ap Meredith, descent from 329 422 Illdc.Y. Meredyth in Ireland, Burke's pedigree of 331 Lord Athlumney and Meredyth. letter from 330 Midfearn, or Midfairnie, Ross of 66 Mid Gany, Ross of 59 \l issing parchment of the Ross family tree 97. 108 Monro, David, of Allan, letter to Gen. Meredith Read, relative to Monro of Allan and Ross of Balblair [35 Monro. Elizabeth, of Allan, letter to Gen. Meredith Read, relative to death of Leila Monro i.v same to same, introducing Mrs. Fraser 138 Monro, Leila, of Allan, letters to Gen. Meredith Read, relative to Monro of Allan and Ross of Balblair 135, 136 Monro of Allan; arms of 134 connection with Ross of Balblair 134 correspondence with Monro family 135- 1 38 de-cent from Monro of Foulis 134 guests invited to funeral of Hugh Munro of Teaninich, 1703 130 Morangie, Ross of 66 arms of 70. S7 Muldarg and Little Allan. Ross of 55 Musselburgh, Andrew Ross in 74 N Nether Pitkerie, Iws- branch of 4S Nicholas Ross. Dyer in Tain, branch of 40 Nigel, the Forester of Borstall, descendants of 252 Xonnakiln. Ross branch of 53 Norton. Alvah. Utter to Dr. Meredith Maxwell, describing Gen. Samuel Meredith 356 Notes concerning Redesdale • • 207 o Order of Albion, origin of 400 Order of the Amaranth, origin of 398 Origin of arms of Read 201 Clan of Read 220 Clan of Ross 90 Clan system gi P Pedigrees of: Bradford of Bradford 349 Cadwalader family 341 Carron d'Allondans family 372 Clan of Rede, or Read 220 Clan of Ross 00 Index. 4-3 ! '( digrees of: Drake family 366 Earls of Ross 2 Mayflower families of Allerton. Bradford. Cook. Cushman and War- ren 345 Meredith in America 3 2 9 Meredith of Radnorshire. Wale- 3 2 9 Meredyth in Ireland 33 1 Monro of Allan 134. 135 New England families of Freeman. Marshall and Waterman 345 Reade of Barton Court 2 49 Reade of Shipton Court 2 54 Read in America 2 69 Read of Brocket Hall 2 59 Rede of Borstall -'5' Rede of Northumberland 199 Rede of Redesdale l 9$ Ross in America . . x 55 Ross in Scotland •., 2 Van Gezel of Delaware [ 87 Ward of Maryland 379 Pitcalnie. Ross line of : 4 account of ll ^ death of the Laird of "9 succession I21 Pitcalzeane, Ross of 7- Pitkerie, Ross branch of 47 Pittogarty, Ross of 7- Plumstead, Clementina Ross, letters to Gen. Meredith Read, relative to Ross family tree 106, 10/ Priesthill, Ross branch of 2 9 arms of 5§, 84, 87 Pumpelly family, arms of 364 chart of 358 descendants of: Charles (1776- 1855) 360 Harmon ( 1795-1882 ) 363 Harriet (1791-1863) 363 James ( 1775- 1845 ) 359 John (d. 1810, aet. 92) 35§ Maria (1786-1855) 36 1 William ( 1788-1876 ) 3^ Queen Alexandra of England, letter to Gen. Meredith Read, extending greetings 3*4 Queries concerning descendants of Rev. George Ross answered 165 424 Index. R Rarichies, Ross of and in 73 Hugh Ross of. rir^t Laird of Balnagown 8 Reada and Redesdale, notes concerning 206 Read. Alice, letter to the compiler relative to descendants of George Read. 4th 293 Reade (or Read) of Barton Court: ancient Abingdon, description of 242 arms of 235 Barton Court descent from Rede of Troughend to Thomas Read ( 1607-1634 ) 249 Barton Court, defense of 237 ruins of 236 visit of ( ieii. Meredith Read to, 1S77 239 Barton Manor, description of 235 Bcedon Manor, description of 236 Read. Richard, of Culham Rectory. Oxfordshire, ancestor of Ameri- can Reads 250. 26] . 262 descendants of 261 St. Helen's Church. Abingdon, description of 244 Reade (or Read) of Shipton Court: Baronets of Shipton Court, descent of: 1. Sir Compton Reade (1626-1679), first Baronet 254 2. Sir Edward Reade (1659-1691), second Baronet 2^ 3. Sir W'mw 1 Reade (1683-1692), third Baronet.., 255 4. Sir Thomas Reade (1684-1752), fourth Baronet 256 5. Sir John Reade 11721-1773). fifth Baronet 256 6. Sir John Reade (1762-1789), sixth Baronet 257 7. Sir John Chandos Reade (1785-1868), seventh Baronet 258 8. Sir Chandos Stanhope Hoskyns Reade (1831-1890), eighth Baronet 259 9. Sir George Compton Reade (b. 1845), ninth and present Baronet 259 family chart 9 Shipton Court, alienation of 246 description of 246 1 at 247 Read in America: Read. George (1733-1798). the Signer: arms of, shown in hook-plate 276 career of 276 descendants of 269 verses on, by Prof. Holbrooke 278 Read. George, 2d (1765-1836): career of 291 descendants of 270 Index: 425 Read in America: Read, George, ,3d (1788-1837): career of 292 descendants of 271 Read, George, 4th (1812-1859): career of 293 descendants of 272 Read. George, 5th (b. 1847): career of 293 descendants of 275 Read, Harmon Pumpelly (b. i860) 274,310 Read. James (1743-1822): career of 284 descendants of 270 Read, John (1688- 1756). first American ancestor: arms of, shown on gravestone 267 career of 265 death of 267 descendants of 269 chart of 269 romance of early years 265 Read, John (1769-1854): career of 297 descendants of 270 Read. John Meredith (1797-1874): career of 300 descendants of 272 Read, John Meredith (1837-1896): Abbacy of Fearn, memoranda relative to 133 arms of 313 Balmachy. memoranda relative to 44 Barton Court, visit to, 1877 239 career of 3 -> correspondence of: letters from: Armstrong, Edward, Esq 101, 103 Bell, Edmund H.. of Philadelphia 162 King George I of Greece 313 MacKenzie, John Whitefoord, Esq.. Edinburgh 102, 132 Monro. David, of Allan 135 Monro, Elizabeth, of Allan 137, 138 Monro, Leila, of Allan 135, 136 Plumstead, Clementina Ross 106, 107 Queen Alexandra of England 314 Reid, Francis Nevile, Esq !6i, 162 426 Index. Read in America: Read. John Meredith (1837-1856): correspondence of: letters from: Ross, Catherine, of Pitcalnie 118 Stodart, R. R.. Esq., of Lyon Office 102. 10^, 130, 131 Stuart & Cheyne, Edinburgh. ... 102. 103. 104, 105, no. in, 113 letters to : Evarts. William M., Secretary of State 306 MacKenzie, John Whitefoord. Esq., Edinburgh 132 Reid. Francis Nevile, Esq 162 Stuart & Cheyne, Edinburgh 104, 109, 111 descent of, from : ancient Kings of Wales 341, 343 Balblair, 1 )avid Ross of 1S2. [83 Balmachy. house of [82, 183 Balnagowan, house of [82, [83 Cadwalader, John 342, 344 Carpenter 340 Earls of Ross ( through Rev. George Ross) 155 John of Gaunt (through Richard Read) 202 Mayflower and New England families of: Allerton 345 Bradford 346 Cook 347 Cushman 345 Freeman 34S Marshall 348 Warren 34(1 Waterman 347 Meredith, Madog ap, Prince of Powis 329 Meredith. Samuel 330 Read, Colonel John, of Delaware 274. 303 Read, Hon. George, the Signer 274. 303 Ross. David, of Balblair 182, 183 Ross. Rev. George, of Delaware 182. 183 Royal house of Scotland 181-183 Shandwick, house of 182, 183 Dunrobin Castle, visit to, 1877 44 recollections of: autobiographic 315 Maverick House 324 Warwick Neck 319 Ross of Pitcalnie. visit to. 1877 1 18 Read. John Meredith (b. 1869) 274, 312 Index. 4 2 7 Read in America: Read, Thomas (1740- 1788): career of 2 °° defense of Delaware Bay 280 discovery of Alliance and Morris Islands 281 first naval officer to attain rank of commodore 280 voyage to China, 1788 283 Read, William (1767-184(1): career of 2 97 descendants of 2 7° Read, William ( 1823- 1884), descendants of 273 Read of Brocket Hall: Baronets of Brocket Hall: 1. Sir John Read (1617-1694), first Baronet of 259 2. Sir James Read (1655-1701). second Baronet 260 3. Sir John Read (1691-1712), third and last Baronet 260 Rede of Borstall: Borstall descent from Rede of Tronghend to Leonard Rede, last Rede Lord of Borstall 240, 251 Nigel, Forester of Borstall, descendants of 25 2 Rede of Redesdale 198 Rede of Tronghend: ancient Redesdale, description of 203 arms of Troughend, description of 197- IQ 8 tradition of the origin of 201 Clan of Rede, or Read, pedigree of 220 " Death of Parcy Reed." ancient ballad. .' 213 Elsdon parish in 1762, description of 209 legend of Sir Reginald Read 205 Reada and Redesdale, notes concerning 206 Rede of Redesdale 198 Rede, old forms of name of 197 Redesdale. description of 203 notes concerning 207 Rede. Sir Edmund, arms of 199 Rede, Thomas, of Beccles. arms of 200 Rede, William, Bishop of Chichester, first Free Mason among the Reads 200 Reed, Ellerington, last of the Troughend chiefs 197 Reed of the Cragg, arms of 199 Reed, or Read, of Heathpool and Hoppen, arms of 199 Reid, Francis Nevile, Esq., letters to Gen. Meredith Read relative to descendants of Rev. George Ross 161, 162 Related families: Allerton, Isaac (b. 1583). descendants of 345 Bradford, Major William ( 1590-1657), career of 346 descendants of 346 428 Index. Related families: Bradford of Bradford, pedigree of 349 Cadwalader family, arms of 344 descent of, from ancient Kings of Wales 341 Carpenter, Samuel (b. 1649), arms of 340 career of 340 descendants of 340 Carron d'Allondans, arms of 173. 375 pedigree of 372 related families 375 Cook, Francis, descendants of 347 Cushman, Robert (1580-1625), descendants of 345 Drake, arms of 367 John R. ( [782-1857), career of 368 descendants of 367 old Drake Cnurch, visit to. 1886 370 Rev. Reuben ( 1745-1793 ). account of 366 descendants of 366 Roberts and Learning families, connection with 366 tombstone inscriptions at old Drake Church 371 William, descendants of 366 Foras family, descent of 376 Freeman. Edmund (1590-1682), arms of 348 descendants of 348 Marshall, Thomas (d. 1689). arms of 348 descendants of 348 Meredith in America: Meredith. Reese, career of 329 descendants of 329 Meredith. Samuel (1741-1817). appointed United States Treas- urer by President Washington 335 career of 329. 332 descendants of 330 Jefferson. President, letter of regret from 335 Meredith ghost story 339 unveiling of statute at Pleasant Mount 337 Meredith of Radnorshire: arms of 332 Llangunllo. description of 327 Madog ap Meredith, descent from 329 Meredyth in Ireland: Burke's pedigree of 331 Lord Athlumney and Meredyth, letter from 330 Pumpelly, arms of 364 Charles (1776-1855), descendants of 360 Harmon (1795-1882), descendants of 363 Harriet (1791-1863). descendants of 363 Index. 429 Related families: Pumpelly. arms of: James ( 1775-1845), descendants of 359 John (d. 1819. art. 92), career of 357 descendants of , Maria (1786-1855), descendants of 3 I William (1788-1876), descendants of 3 Van Gezel of Delaware, account of * will of John Van Gezel Ward of Maryland: r . 179 William (d. 1720). career ot .... 379 descendants ot . 340 Warren, Richard, arms ot descendants of Waterman. Robert (d. 1655). arms of ■ 347 descendants of /4 Risollis, Ross of 66 Roberts family • ' '.""' ' ' " ', ".'• "1 ' l' n Ross Catherine, of Pitcalnie, letter to Gen. Meredith Read relative to I Io visit of his son „ same to same, relative to death of Ross of Pitcalnie .••••• Ross Hugh, of Shandwick. letter to David Ross, writer in Edinburgh, „ 9" relative to American Kosses Ross in America: Ross. Betsey, and the American flag Ross, Hon. George (i730-i779>- the Signer: 169 career ot , 170 descendants ot . 169 chart of Eshleman, George Ross, letter from l ' residence of, at Lancaster, Pa Ross, Huitt. memoranda concerning l/0 Ross. Hon. John (1714-1776). Royal Attorney-General: . , .. t 83, 167 arms of, description ot , 167 book-plate of r ID5 career ot 167 descendants 01 entries in family Bible 174 ghost story concerning 1 7Q interesting family incident '* letter to Dr. Gordon relative to Ross in Scotland 97 _ , . , c 168 Tusculum, residence ot 177 ghost at " Ross, Rev. George (1 679-1754): , t 1 56 autobiography ot 155 career ot 430 Index. Ross in America: Ross, Rev. George (1679-1754): descendants of 159 chart of 159 correspondence relative to • 161 memoranda concerning 164 descent of, from : Earls of Ross 155 Royal house of Scotland 182, 183 letter to his son. John Ross 11 714-177'' 1 156 Van Gezel family, account of • • 184, 187 Ross portraits in America, list of 160 Ross in Scotland: ancient Earls of Ross. (See Earls of Ross.) arms of Ross S3 Balblair and Balnagown Castle in [881 150 Balmachy, memoranda relative to •• 44 Clan < if Ri iss, origin of 90 Clan system, origin of . . . • • 91 Monro of Allan and Ross of Balblair 134 Munro and Ross families in 1703 139 Ri iss family pedigrees 99. 108 Ross, Hugh, of Shandwick, note concerning • 176 Ross of Balblair. correspondence concerning 130 Ross of Pitcalnie, account of • • 118 Royal house of Scotland. Ross descent from 181 Witchcraft in Scotland 147 Ross of Balblair: arms of 83. 84. 183 correspondence relative to 130-133 memoranda concerning, by Gen. Meredith Read 133 connection with Monro of Allan 134 Ross of Pitcalnie. chief of the Clan of Ross: death of 1 19 documents in his pi i>>e"i< in, 1876 121 his successor 121 letters from his widow to Gen. Meredith Read 118 visited by Gen. Meredith Read. 1877 118 visited by Harmon Pumpelly Read. 1882 . 1 iS Royal house of Scotland, descent of Rev. George Ross from 181 Shandwick. Ross line of 31 arms of 31. 83. 98. 101, 109. 183 descent from Roval house of Scotland- 182 Index. 43 * Shandwick succession: correspondence relating to 101-113 discovery of two Ross family trees • • 99, 108 family tree, search for • 97~ ll 3 settlement of, 1876 •• n 3 Shipton Court, alienation of • • 2 4° descent of Baronets of 2 ^4 description of 2 4 ghost at 2 4' St. Helen's church, Abingdon, description of 244 Stodart, R. R.. letters to Gen. Meredith Read relative to Ross of Bal- blair W 131 same to same, relative to Shandwick succession. 102, 103 Stuart & Cheyne, Edinburgh, letters to Gen. Meredith Read relative to Shandwick succession 102-105, no, in, 113 T Tain, Andrew Ross, Provost of • • 74 Benjamin Ross. Bailie of • ■ 75 Donald Ross, Bailie of • • 75 William Ross, Bailie of • • /6. 77 Tinkham, Mrs. Harriet G., letter to Mrs. James Kidd. relative to old Drake church ■ • 37° Tolly and Achnacloich. Ross line of 2 7 Tutintarroch, Ross of and in. 74 Tradition of the origin of the afms of Troughend 201 u United States, arms of l 9 l United States flag, origin of • • l 9 2 V Van Gezel family, account of I0 ° Wan Gezel, John, will of- • : °7 w Ward family of Maryland, account of 379 chart of • • 378 William ( d. 1720), career of 379 descendants of • • 3/9 Warren, Richard, arms of • • 340 descendants of ■ • 34o Waterman. Robert (d. 1655), arms of 347 descendants of ■ • 347 Wester Gany, Ross of °°' Williamson, George R., succeeds to the chieftainship of the Clan of Ross. 121 Witchcraft in Scotland : 47 JLQJ HK196-7R '* r o V" 5 »°^ ' 0° ^ • . 1 * ^ <^ A c v * 0' 4 o. ^O >^ c v ♦ % ,0 v v ,H°^ *.°-^ o ^ ^ k V^ c > •^ 4 G v 6 b ^ :-s-' ' %*^V v^-V %^v V- V 'life "V : *9fe V '^^ "° » • 4 * A <> o O O A •q? v<> INDIANA J ;§r|k^ " ^^^^?^^^l N MANCHESTER. INDIANA j « ' ■> * ^ °^ * o » °