o > ^°"*, -J ' h'*-' '^r. '-'^- ^^. V'««"' sV" :> Q> , o « , C » rf a ^~ ''^^ ".^ V (ARRiET F. WIFE OF iS^S^ CREIGHTON W. PARKER nUOXSDOX AND 1]0X IW MI LIES, Part I. i;<>i;i i:i i;i:uN>iH)\. mi i;( ii wr AXI" Ills I)K««rKXI»AXTS. ilarl II. .KMh i;n\. Lon \I \KI l;. Am> llm I)f.h( K V ii \ V rs Col. I.I (11^ i; \I AK'sji. AMU M Ks. 11 A i: i: I i: I r. r \ i: k i: i: (Publi^Aetl by .Mk.s. I'akkkk.) I-VNN, MASS. I'lIK NK ||(.l,s I'KKSS — TfloS. I'. VlfHOLS. 1 '.» •_' . THE I.IBNARV •f^ • •NGR&Sb. Two Co»'** Rtc« lUiliuur in AjVirtiondteli/ and Respectfully D^^iratr^ to All the De-tcendants of the abote Families by the Compilers. 3Jii ittruuirtam. liOBEUT BRONSDON, " Merchant of Boston," County of Suffolk, Province of Massachusetts Bay. " Shii bluiib. mij frinii). attii parthi inittr." — Tennyson. Date Author %rsh Titl< ^a 7-56 (rev V72) PREFACE " They who on glorious ancestry enlarge But prove their debt instead of their discharge." THE labor of research and compilation connected with this book was accomplished in three years. Similar undertakings frequently consume ten or twenty years, or longer ; but, whatever the time allowed, it is a fact that to the genealogist, ever aware of deficiencies in the records, the work never seems finished. At the commencement some material, already gath- ered, awaited but the opportunity of one who possessed considerable infor- mation of family matters, together with practical experience in genealogical methods. We refer to Colonel Lucius Bolles Marsh, late of Boston (see p 124). Colonel Marsh passed on to a higher life, Aug. 14, 1901, while at his summer home at North Scituate. A long and painful illness culminated three days before his death in paralysis. He was mourned by all who had the happiness to call him friend. In the beginning of this Genealogy he applied himself with enthusiasm to correspondence with kindred and prepa- ration of manuscript, but his strength proved unequal to such a task, and by the advice of his physician, he desisted from writing, but continued to impart instruction to his co-worker, Mrs. Parker ; her manuscript, when ready for publication, was submitted to him for verification and approval boon afterward his illness increased, and he thought better to relinquish the undertaking wholly to Mrs. Parker, who, without delay, made arrangements to publish the book, anxiously hoping the while that the Colonel might live to see It finished ; for Colonel Marsh, above all other descendants of Robert Bronsdon, would have rejoiced could he have held this volume in his hand and turned its pages. It meant much to him, for he undertook the work from the most unselfish motives. He believed that what we call " family pnde often proves a real moral restraint, and that the man who is assured of SIX or eight generations of respectable ancestors is better able to realize the kinship of the race, and consequently becomes less narrow and selfish more scrupulous in the performance of his parental duties, and a better member of society at large. Few families possess even one ancient relic which might serve as a reminder of their forefathers. Heirlooms and relics have their mission, inasmuch as they evoke inquiry on the part of our young people and keep alive traditions of the past vi PREFACE. A noted college professor has said that there is one thing within our grasp, and that is the " spiritual possession of the family kinship." Just a mere name and a few dates stand for the lifetime of one who has, like our- selves, lived and loved, joyed and suffered, gloried in achievement or bowed in disappointment. Who does not sometimes ponder the hidden springs of his own being ? " Those days are vanished, tone and tint, And yet perhaps the hoarding sense Gives out at times, we know not whence, A little flash, a mystic hint." Some delay has resulted from the difficulty of providing for the expenses of publication. These were underestimated at the start, consequently the customary fate of genealogists is ours. No person who embarks in an enter- prise of this sort need expect to make receipts and expenses balance. Lack of funds obliged us to omit some interesting pictures which it was originally intended to insert in the book. It was expected that three hundred pages, including the Index, would be the maximum number, but this limit is exceeded. For these reasons we are obliged to advance the price of this book, which in future will be somewhat above the original sum paid by subscribers. Our work has been performed in a conscientious spirit, but errors will doubtless have crept in, although we hope they are few, and we bespeak your leniency for all such. We have for the most part refrained from com- ment and allowed facts to speak for themselves. When doubt exists on any point we have so stated, leaving the matter open for future information or correction, which we will gladly receive ; also we desire to perfect all incom- plete records. We might entertain our readers with an account of the weeks and months spent in poring over old books and papers in dusty, dimly-lighted libraries, or in public buildings where knowledge was oftentimes to be gained only from weighty volumes of bound documents to which we scaled our way by ladders ; of interviews with public and private officials, obliging or other- wise ; of journeying to interview "oldest inhabitants;" of searches in old graveyards, or underground tombs, or wherever "original records" were thought to lurk ; also of the almost interminable task of compilation when names, dates, places and events were studied and assigned to their appro- priate niches, and manuscripts copied and re-copied during the " wee sma' hours ayant the twal." Hundreds of letters have been written and almost as many received. In the wide acquaintance thus gained, nothing has impressed us more than the changed conditions of succeeding generations and the differing fortunes of the posterity of those who were formerly on an even plane of worldly prosperity. PREFACE. y[{ However, all that has been wearisome or uncongenial in our task will fade into the background of Memory if ours be the happiness of knowing that we have presented you with an acceptable volume. We gratefully appreciate the services of those who have facilitated the acco-mplishment of our purpose. It is not possible, within the limits of this preface, to name all, but aside from the descendants of Robert Bronsdon, we are indebted for assistance to Miss Harriet Laughton Matthews of the Lynn, Mass., Public Library; Mr. John L. Hassam of Boston, an authority on Colonial history; Mr. G. T. Ridlon of Maine, author of " Saco Valley Settlers ; " Mr. Sereno D. Nickerson, Recording Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Mass., F. and A. M. ; the late and the present Recorders of the city of Boston, viz., Mr. Whitmore and Mr. McGlenen ; Mrs. Alice (Fairfield) Moody of Portland^ Me.; nor must we forget to acknowledge the courtesy of the Boston Evening Transcript in allowing us the use of their genealogical column. In the preparation of Box-Story records, we have been helped by the courtesy of the late Judge Isaac Story of Somerville, Mr. Robert Marion Pratt of Boston, and Mrs. Eleanor (Hoskins) Waitt of Dorchester. Mr. I. J. Greenwood of New York, author of much valuable genealogical literature, kiudly verified the Greenwood sketch. Mrs. Sarah (Vallette) Day of New York contributed the sum necessary to the production of the Vallette Appendix, and Mr. Milton H. Bronsdon of Providence, R. L, assumed the greater part of the expense of the English researches, for which we engaged Mr. Lothrop Withington, the celebrated genealogist of London, England. These researches were not completed, but may be resumed at some future time. Many who sent family records, etc., did not subscribe, doubtless for sufficient reasons. Our book has not been electrotyped and the present edition is small ; when it is exhausted, no more copies will be obtainable. We wish our subscribers to receive renewed assurance of our gratitude for their loyal and cordial support, which has kept us from relinquishing the enterprise when sometimes it has seemed impossible to carry it through to a successful termination. " Vento favente navis in portum venit.^'' HARRIET F. PARKER. Address : Mrs. Creightok W. Parker, 28 Lowell Street, Lynn, Mass. viii PREFACE. BRONSDON. , Early Origin of the Name. Bronsdon is derived from the old Saxon, Bronteston. We quote from that quaint old English book, " Shaw's Staffordshire," Vol. I, page 22 : " Bronteston is a small place in Staffordshire, a hamlet belonging to Burton. (Brantestun, Braunteston, Brantiston, Branston, Bronston). It is situated two miles south of Burton and near the Eiver Trent and upon the old Roman road Ryknield-Street, now the Turnpike to Litchfield. " The first mention of this small place is before the Conquest, much earlier than I believe I shall find any other original document or grant else- where in the whole county, viz., 956, when King Edwy, by his charter bear- ing that date and signed by himself, his son and Odo the Archbishop, other Bishops and Saxon Dukes, &c., grants to his faithful servant, or Thane, Eadwig, eight farms of land in Brantestun for his life, with permission after his death to leave them to whom he pleased, to be inherited forever. " The estate was afterward the property of Godeva, the wife of Leofric, Earl of Mercia, who died possessed of it, leaving it, with other estates, to her son Algar, whose heir, Edwyne, having forfeited it by his opposition to the Conqueror, we find it was held of him in the 20th year of his reign by the Abbey of Burton. " For, in Domesday Book, it is thus recorded. " This Abbey held Brantestone, which the Lady Godeva before held. " It then consisted of one hide and a half.* The arable lands of Braun- teston were 5 caracates, &c., 24 acres of meadow, a wood, a half a mile m length, and the same in breadth. It had been worth 60 shillings, but then only 40 shillings. In the time of Henry I, the wood was held by Robert de Ferrars. " It was granted for services to the church by the Abbots of Burton to various persons, until, in the time of King John (1199 to 1216) a family became settled there who took their surname from the place and divers of the lands there, as follows, '' About the year 1250 A-vice the widow of Robert, son of Ailwyn de Brontiston, grants and confirms to God and the church of Burton a tene- ment and one bovat of land in Brantestun, in the wood at Littlehay, with appurtenances, &c. " Next, Richard, the son of Robert de Brontiston, and Margaret, his wife, quitclaim, &c. to the said Abbey the above volantum in Littlehay wood for which they paid them, in their greate necessity, half a mark of silver. " About the year 1320 William, son of Richard de Brontiston, for the sake of charity and his own soule and those of his ancestors and successors, grants to Robert, Abbot of Burton, and monks there, two bovats of land in Brontiston. ~ * A "hide" was 120 acres. In 960 land sold at one shilling an acre, and thus we learn how dear was money and how cheap was land. In 1066 the ancient families were reduced to poverty by seizui-e of their lands by William the Conqueror. This is known as the Dissolution. PREFACE. ix " A-vice, daughber of Roger de Brantiston, for the health of her soul and those of her ancestors and successors, grants to God, and the said church, two bo vats of Land in Brantiston which Humphrey, the son of Edwv held, an VII acres of meadow for III shil. VI pence yearly." There was also a William Bronston, Abbot of Burton, who died in 1472, after occupying the office of Abbot for eighteen years. He died March 7, 1472, and was sumptuously buried in St. Mary's Chapel, under a marble tomb on which is inscribed a Latin epitaph beginning, ''Abbates gesslt, qui hie reqidescit, Wilhelmus nomine Branston cui det Deus. Amen.'' He was a great benefactor to the Abbey. The Abbot William Bronston gave six pieces of cloth of silver and gold to the Abbey, and also added greatly to its revenues. He also procured an exemption from servino- the office of Sheriff of Staffordshire. In the 24th year of the reign of Edward III, Joan, wife of Richard de Calangewood, and Henry, their son and heir, held lands in '' Brondeston." This manor passed, with the rest of the Abbey lands, to Sir William Paget after the Dissolution, and from him to the Earl of Uxbrido-e. Succession. i. " ' Alwines de Brontlston} before 1216. ii. Robert de Brontlston- and Avice his wife, 1250,* iii. Richard de Broritiston^ and Margaret his wife, iv. William de Brontlston^ Abbot of Burton, 1330. y. Roger de Brontlston^ (of London ?). vi. A-vice de Brantiston^. vii. William Bronston', Abbot of Burton, 1454 to 1472. Description of Burton, by Shaw. Burton consists of one principal street, running north and south, paral- lel with the River Trent, called High-street, and, at right angles, another spacious street called Horninglow-street. In the parish are 6 hamlets. Burton extra, Bronston, Horninglow, Stretton, Wiushill and Stapleliill. William Bramston was Sheriff in London, 1395, and was the ancestor of the Bramston family of Boreham, near Chelmsford, County Essex, Eng- land. The same variations of spelling are noticeable in the name of thts family as in the early Bronsdon generations, and there is little or no doubt that it is a branch of the ancient Brontestons. A record preserved in the Greenwood family was written over a century ago. It is as follows : * Robert and Avis remained as ancestral names in the family for centuries Robert PREFACE. " Samuel Greenwood married a Brinsdall descended from the Knights of Moulsham (near Chelmsford), Co. Essex. William Knight (see Chelms- ford Parish Register) had two sons and a daughter living temp. Charles I. One son was in the Army and the second, to whom the estate descended, died without issue, after which the property was managed by Fitz Walter and D. Fitz Gerald. The daughter married Brinsdell and had twin daugh- ters, of whom the eldest married S. Greenwood." The foregoing was furnished by Mr. I. J. Greenwood of New York City, who says further : " The name Fitz Walter comes in here, as the Manor of Moulsham belonged to the Mildmay family since 1542, and in 1669 Henry Mildmay was allowed the Barony of Fitz Walter which his ancestors had claimed. Both his sons Charles and Benjamin were Lords Fitz Walter, the latter dying in 1758, s. p." This may mean either that the mother of Bathsheba Richards was named Knight and that the writer confused the identity of mother and daughter, or that Robert Bronsdon was previously married according to the above record, and that Elizabeth was the daughter of that marriage, and therefore a step-daughter to Bathsheba. The Knight family was closely associated with Robert Bronsdon in America, as a study of documents relating to him will reveal. He purchased a Knight estate in Salem. Hoping to obtain a record of this marriage, we addressed the Deputy Parish Clerk of Chelmsford, who made researches in the old registers of marriages, baptisms and burials, and, as the spelling of the name varies so much, he concluded that Robert Bronsdon or Brimsdon sprang from the old family of Bramsdon or Bramston. The crest of the Bramstons of England is a " Lion sejant, or gorged with a collar, sable, charged with three plates."* This crest is taken from the tomb of Sir John Bramston of Roxwell, near Chelmsford, Co. Essex. He was son of Roger Bramston (a descendant of William, the Sheriff of London). He married Priscilla Cloville, and, in consequence of this alliance, removed to Boreham. While Roger Bramston and his wife were visiting relatives at Maldon, near Chelmsford, John was born May 18, 1577, as recorded in the Parish Church there. One of his godfathers was Henry Mildmay, Esq. In course of time he attended the University at Cambridge, and went from thence to the Middle Temple, and in due season was called to the Bar. He was appointed Counsel to the University at Cambridge and * Note. The Lion gorged with a collar, charged with three plates, is the crest in the " Coat of Arms " which John Box Bronsdon caused to be adorned with the symbols of American Independence as a memorial of his English origin and the part he took in the War of the Revolution. See illustration wherein it is reproduced from the original picture, now over 120 years old, and which is faded and crumbling. It belongs to the heirs of the late Hannah (Bronsdon) Allen. The English Coat of Arms was etched on a silver plate which disappeared about 35 years ago. It had descended to Phinehas Bronsdon' s heirs from earlier generations. BRONSDON COAT OF ARMS AMERICANIZED BY (282) JOHN BOX BRONSDON, PREFACE. XI to namerous other positions of honor, until, in 1630, he became Chief Justice of Ely, and in 1632 Queen's Sergeant, and was knighted that year. In 1635 he was constituted Lord Chief Justice of the King's Bench. In 1606 he married Bridget, a daughter of Thomas Moundefort, or Mountfort, Doctor of Physic, and Mary, daughter of Richard Hill of London by Elizabeth, 20th child of Sir William Lock, Alderman of London. Sir John Bramston by his first wife had twelve children, of whom three sons and three daughters survived. The first Lady Bramston died in the 36th year of her age, and Sir John married, second, Elizabeth, widow of Sir John Brereton and daughter of Lord Brabazon. In the year 1635 he purchased the estate of the son of the Earl of Portland at Skreens, Roxwell, near Chelmsford, Co. Essex, where he died Sept. 22, 1564. A monument to his son. Sir John Bramston, states that he was made a Knight of the Bath on April 23, 1661, at the coronation of King Charles II. He resided in London at his town house in the Charterhouse Yard, and also on his ancestral estates near Chelmsford. He had a quarrel with his political enemy. Sir Henry Mildmay, about the repairs to a bridge. The Mildmays were successors of the Bishop of London, who originally built the bridge. Lord Fitzwalter, the then owner of the Mildmay estates, retained all the solicitors of the county and obtained a verdict in his own favor. Sir John Bramston, being very bitter over the result, carried his grievance before the King in Council in 1672, and His Majesty was pleased to declare his very good opinion of Sir John and his two brothers, and that he regarded Mr. Mildmay's pro- ceedings as "a malicious contrivance against them who appeared to him altogether innocent of the charge." The second Sir John Bramston died Feb. 1, 1699, in the 89th year of his age. The above is condensed from Chancellors " Monuments of Essex," from a copy in full sent to the compilers of the Bronsdon history by the Parish Clerk of Chelmsford, England. The reader will observe the association of the Mildmay and Bramston names. A large and very quaint old book that belonged to Robert Bronsdon is carefully preserved ; this book is dedicated to Sir William Brereton, and probably that was the reason for its possession by Robert Bronsdon. We have the names of a brother and sister of Robert ; Benjamin Brons- don, whose Will is briefly summed up as follows : 20 June 1681. Benjamin Brunsden Devizes, Wilts, glazier. To sone £10 & buffe breeches, to daughter £10, Rest to wife Avis executrix. Wit- nessed by William Whittier for ISTicholys Bid dell, Walter Hulthorp. Inventory 24 August 1681 . . . coffee powder, coffee pott, etc. Total £112 : 15 : 6. Debts £15 : : 6. Signed Rich. Jeffries, Nicholas Biddell. (Consistory of Sarum, file for 1681.) xii PREFACE. His daughter, Avis Brunsden, married John Gale of Broomham, Wilts. Her son, Benjamin Gale, was in Boston fifty years later, when he signed deeds of real estate. Robert Bronsdon's sister Mary married into the Bosson family, probably of Roxbiiry, Mass. There was a Robert Bronsdon of London, called "cousin " by Robert of Boston. He died without children. We have abstracts of a number of old Bronsdon Wills, not any of which can be connected with absolute certainty with our ancestor, Robert, until further information is obtained. A few are here given, to indicate that the Bronsdon family of the time of Robert was prosjjerous and possessed of culture. There have been several of the name at the University at Oxford from early times. OLD ENGLISH WILLS. 18 June 1615 Jone Brunsden, East Grafton parish of Greate Bedwin, CO Wilts. To be buried in greate Bedwin church. To church of Greate Bedwin 6 s. 8 d. To poor of ditto 10 s. To Jone Brunsdone daughter of son Thomas £10. To daughter Jone bed etc. and £3. To son Thomas £5. To children's children 10 s. each. To Marie and Jane Brunsdone daughters of son John a bocram shete each. To servant Jane Batt 10 s. and second gowne. To Edward Brunsden son of John cowe and shepe. To daughter Jone all wearing linen. To god-children 10 s. each. Rest to son John Brunsden, executor. Inventory of Jone Brunsen late widow of Edmund Brunsen of Greate Bedwin taken and prized by Christopher Batt, Thomas Blandy & Robert Noyes £6 : 2 : 8. (Consistory of Sarum, file for 1615.) 15 Julie, lo James I. William Brinsden towne and parish of Wotten Bassett, Co. Wilts, gentleman. To the poor of Wotten Bassett 20 s. To Anne Jacobb £20. To William, Thomas and Mary Jacobb, grandchildren, £10 at 21 years. To daughter Jane £40. To daughter Ann brasse pott weight 15 pounds, powder weighing 12 pounds. To son John all lands in Wotten Bassett and paying to heirs of son John and daughters Jane and Ann 200 marks to be divided to children's children. Residue to son John Brinsden, Executor. Cozen John Brinsden of Bristoll, Richard Bosson of Woodshawe, gent., and John Parsons of Wotten Bassett overseers. Written with owne hand. No witnesses. Proved 11 Nov'' 1616. 23 April, 17 Charles II, 1675. Ann Brunsden of Wootton Bassett. To daughter Mary Maye my new Shiffe gown and third of wearing apparel and a ring. To daughter Rebeckah Ayloffe the bed shg lyeth on and Lynnen, third of wearing apparel and a ring. To daughter Susannah Levett silk Pettycoate and bedd I doe lye upon and other third of wearing apparel and a ring. To granddaughters two little rings. To grandsons two rings. To children of Susannah Levett 50 * apiece, etc., etc. Son Charles ex'or. Proved at London 12 May 1675. PREFACE. Xlll Will of Christopher Brunsdon of the City of Bristoll, vintner. To be buried at discretion of wife & Mr. Humphrey Brent whom I desire to preach my funeral sermon. Wife Ann executrix & my friend, Mr. Humphrey Little, Overseer, to whom I give 20 s. for a ring. My tenement, mill & lands at French Hay in Winterbourne in Co. Glos, to my eldest son Arthur Brinsdon and in default of him to son John Brinsdon and in default of him to daughters Anne & Ursula. My wife to have use of dwelling house for life. Tenement in Worten Bassett to son Arthur. To wife three tenements called the Three Trouts in St. Thomas Street, Bristoll, for life and then to fower children. To daughters my corner messuage in Temple Streete, my two stables in St. Thomas Lane, and messuage at Kedcliffe Pitt. Touching my Mowbarton at Temple Gate I give the same to my wife and at her marriage or death to son John, also to John the debt due from my brother- in-law, Roger Roydon, in case he accepts the Spittle house close as part of his wife's dividend etc. but if he refuse I give said close to son John. To the feoffies of St. Thomas Church £30 the interest to be imployed for a sermon to be preached every year forever August 24 my birth day, and the overplus to the poor. All my goods, household stuff, implements of trade, etc., to be inventoried and divided into five equal parts and divided to wife and children, or if wife prefers to carry on my trade she to give security for payments of children's portions at 21 or marriage. Witnessed by Nathaniel King, Fra. Yeamans, John Field, Rich. Higgins Jun'". Proved at London, 2 June 1673. Reg. P. P. C. Pye fo 69. 20 April 1675. John Brunsdon of Wootton Bassett, gentleman. To Mother Anne houses, freehold lands and rents in this towne and parish, except the houses that Richard Ayers and Robert Parsons doe live in which I give to the haires of my brother Christopher Brinsdon. Also to my said mother the leasehold lying in Eastfield . . . and leasehold in Unquety for her life and after her decease my dwelling house, etc., and lands belong- ing, the Barley close, Paradice, Snow Croft, and Bvxtt hay adjoining, to my sister Rebeckah Ayloffe and to my brother Charles for their life or the longest liver. My Butt hay barne (be)longs to Snow Croft, the Furlong Broadstone, Little Broadstone. Little Coxstalls, my dwelling-house outhouses. Leva] Is house. Gooseys house and all gardens belonging & also Paradice, The great Oare, Three little Oares and Long Pew, the Barley Close and Butt hay to my brother Charles Brunsden, and his heires reserving £10 a year for my sister Susannah Levett, 20 s. yearly to the poor of Unquety, 20 s more to the poor of Wootton Bassett. To nephews Arthur and John houses in Wootton Bassett now in occupation of John Skeat Jun"", John Brewer, Jeane Brewer and Jeffry Edwards. To poor of Wootton Bassett £10 to remain as a stocke. £10 more to be distributed the morrow after my funerall. 40 s to the church 20 s for a funeral sermon. £10 to sister- in-law Anne Brunsden, £20 to sister Rebeckah Ayliffe, £6 to Viccar Skeat for a silver tankard for his son John my godson, £10 to my niece Mary Maye if she abide with her grandmother for 6 yeares. Reside Legatee and Ex^ mother Anne Brunsden. Witnesses, John Franklin, Bartholomew Horsbell, Thos. Newth. 13 May 1675 Com°" issued to Charles Brinsden the brother, Ann the mother being dead. XIV PREFACE. Will of John Brunsden the elder of Ogborne St. George, co. Wilts. To son Richard 11 acres of land in the common fields ; to son John one and a half acres in Mershill, also Cookes Close ; to son Henry messuage called Hallams and 43 acres of land in the common fields. To daughters Mary & Frances £150 apiece. Residue to wife Mary. Witnessed by Ob. Burges, Thomas Potter, John Savery. Seal, a shield with a cross ; a star in the center. Will proved 1694 in the Dean, and Canons of Windsor. Frances Brunsdon, mentioned above, made her Will in Feb., 1694, men- tioning her mother Anne Brunsdon, brothers John, Richard and Herry, sister Elizabeth Burges of Ruckly, nieces Sarah Brunsdon and Ann Bruns- den, to whom she left a '' golde ringe." The inventory amounted to £163 : 13 : 2, and was taken by Vincent Ayers, John & Richard Brunsden, 21 May 1694. 13 March 1702. John Brunsdon of Manton. To son John my dwell- ing house purchased of Richard Brunsden for terme of 2000 years, in default to son Thomas and in default of him to son William. To daughter Joane Pawler £3. To daughter Susan Brunsdon £3. Residue to wife Joane. Witnesses, John Barnes, Richard Brunsden, William Marsh. Seal (fleur de lis) 20 Octo"" 1707. Thomas Brunsden of St. Martins in the Fields, co. Middlesex. To be buried as my dear Avife Jane directs. To son Thomas house in Orange Street and £100 at the end of his apprenticeshipp, also all my Bookes, biggest looking glass, his own picture done in oyle colors, one pair of fine holland sheets, my Sword, Belt, Bandeliers, Muskett, Carbine, pistoll and Pike, 6 pewter Porringers, one biggest pewter dishes, one dozen pewter plates, biggest copper porridge pott, biggest saucepan, paire of brass candlesticks, my seal ring, my mourning ring, a silver pott, 6 silver spoones, a silver salt, a silver watch and silver Boucles. To my wife Jane the rent of two houses on Mews street and Hedge Lane for life or widdowhood then to son Thomas. To brother John £10. To Brother Benjamin £5. To sister Jane Blake £5. Residue to wife. Wife & brother John Brunsden ex""*. Seal, a man's bust draped in a toga- — very fine. (Archdeaconry of Middlesex.) 12 January 1650. John Bronsdon, Aughton, parish of Collingborne, Kingstone. To daughter Joane £20 etc. To daughter Frances £20. To son Thomas £20 at 22. To son Edmund £20 at 21 & in case my brother- Edmund do put his life in his liven in Hampsheere then brother Edmund Bronsdon to have £20 for payment of this fine. To daughter Alee £20 at 21. To daughter Sue Bronsdon £20. Rest to wife Margery and son John, Executors. Overseers Edmund Bronsdon & John Chandler. Witnesses, Selathell Deane, Thomas Hall, Robert Brinsden, John Brunsden. John Bronsdon died 14 Jan 1654-5. (Consistory of Sarum, file for 1650.) PREFACE. XV Memorandum that vpon or about the thre & twentieth day of March in the year of our Lord God 1660 Edmund Brunsden of Greate Bedwin, co Wilts, yeoman, being sicke in body but of ppfect vnderstandinge & memory with intent to make his will did by word of mouth make and declare his last will and testament nuncupative and thereby disposed of his estate in manner followinge that is to say he gave vnto his deere wife (as he called her) the howse wherein he then dwelt together with the Backside and orchard there- unto adioyninge and alsoe a little close of pasture lyinge and beinge in Great Bedwin aforesaid for and duringe her naturall life. And after her decease he gave the said howse, Backside and orchard close to Robert Brunsden sonn of Thomas Brunsden his kinsman and to the heires of his body law- fully to be begotten and for the want of such heires then he willed that the said howse etc should discard and come unto Edmund Brunsden soim of John Brunsden late of Collingbourne another of his kinsmen and to his heires and assigns forever and soe he gave it. The rest of his goodes he gave to Amy his wife and appointed her to be executrix and shortly after died. This or the very same in effect was declared by the said Edmund Brunsden to be his last will and testament in the presence and hearinge of Robert Billings, Clarke, John Hurcome and John Harrold. p"" M'^ Robertum Billings, cleci. Proved 7 May 1661. Inventory £181 : 6 : 8 presented April 15 1661 by Robert Billings, Giles Reade, John Harold and Thomas Jenings. - (From Deanery of Sarum Bundle, 1660-1661-1662.) 1 Oct. 1669 Robert Brunsden the elder of Crofton in parish of Greate Beddwin, yeoman. To kinswoman Frances Hall £4. To sister Mary Hall 20 s. To Mary Brunsden £20. To Jeane Brunsden £10. To Alee Bruns- den £3. Item I make my kinsman Robert Bronsdon fully and wholly my exec- utor. To said Robert Brunsden my lands, orchards, houses, etc., etc., in Greate Bedwin. Witnessed by Robt. Sike, Nicholas Taint, John Noyese. Proved 16 May 1671 by Robert Brunsden Ex°^ Inventory £219-10-0, exhibited by oath of Robert Brunsden kinsman of deceased. (The length of time elapsing between the date of this will and the time it was proved may indicate that Robert Bronsdon of Boston was the kins- man indicated.) Administration of the goods of Edward Brunsden of St. Nicholas Cole Abbey, deceased, granted to brothers Walter & John Brunsden 8 Feb. 1665-6. (See Commisary Ct. London, Book 21, fo. 54.) Administration of the goods &c of Robert Branson of Stepney granted to Widow Frances 5 May 1666. (See Com'y Ct. Book 21, fo. 66.) A thorough search has been made of Wiltshire Wills. It has revealed the Will of the brother of Robert Bronsdon of Boston, but nothing to con- XVI PREFACE. nect their family with certainty to other Wiltshire Bronsdons. Therefore the parents of our Kobert will probably be found elsewhere. The Bronsdon family being one of the oldest in England, dating back before the Conquest, were early widely scattered throughout the kingdom. Several of the name are found among the graduates of Oxford College, and one of them has a memorial tablet in Dorsetshire (south of Co. Wilts). Memoranda. Capt. Thomas Bronsdon, ship builder of London, died 28 August, 1736. Will of Benjamin Bronsdon of St. Andrews Undershoft, London, was proved 8 Sept., 1738. Elizabeth, widow of William Bronsdon, died 31 Dec, 1779, ae. 101, and is buried in Stratford church-yard, near Salisbury, Wilts. A Mr. Bronsdon, ship builder, at Rotherhithe, Jan. 1746. John Brinsdon at Shedfield Ho. Hants, 1759. Lord Lyndhurst, Chancellor of England and son of Copley the artist, married, Mar. 13, 1819, Sarah Gray Bronsdon, daughter of Charles Brons- don, Esq. (spelled also "Brunsdon" and '< Brunsdell"). There are very few Bronsdons in England at the present day. There is a recent branch of the Brinsdon family in America which is noticed in Appendix XI, p. 285. ORTHOGRAPHY. In the article upon the ancient source of Bronsdon, we perceive the gradual evolution of the name : Braunteston, Brontiston, Brondeston, Bronston, Bronsdon, Brunsdon and Brinsdon. In England and America the name is rare, and is spelled with remarkable diversity. Here are some of the forms of spelling Bronsdon met with in our researches : Brandon Brondon Broaden Bransden Branson Bransdle B road es den Bransdon Brondson B runs en Brundson Brunson Bromdon Brumden Brumdon Brown ston Bronesden Bromden Bromsdell Brunsdell Brunsdel Brandsdle Brimsdon Brinnesden Brinsdel Brinsdell Brimmesden Brinsdin Bronstein Bromsdale Bronsdel Bromsal Bronston Brinston Brunston Bromdon Bronson Brownsden Brinsdon Bremsdon Note. The great expense of genealogical research in England prevented us from continuing, but Wiltshire Wills were thoroughly explored, some research was made in Co. Essex, and London wills and records partially examined. There is no doubt but what the family of Kobert Bronsdon could be identified from the data we have, if it can be located in England. This may yet be accomplished in the future. PREFACE. XVll Also " Brouden," in which form it is found in tlie printed book of owners of Copp's Hill Tombs. There is a Connecticut family descended from John Bronson, or Brown- son, of Hartford, 1636. During the earlier generations these families, being widely separated by location, did not conflict ; but one of the Bronsons is indexed as Bronsdon by mistake in the Suffolk Eegistry of Deeds. Brandon is used -by copyists who assume to know another person's name better than he does himself. Witness the use of Brandon in the intention of marriage and marriage record of Benjamin^, Junior, and Elizabeth (Foxcroft) Brons- don. EXPLANATORY OF METHOD, ABBEEVIATIONS, ETC., USED IN THIS WORK. The abbreviations are such as are in common use, and are easily under- stood : d. for died, m. for married, b. for born, res. resides or residence, fam. for family. When the State is not mentioned, Massachusetts is to be understood. Each descendant has received a number at the left of the name, no two having the same Arabic numeral, except in case of husband and wife. This is called the Genealogical number. In the descendants of John Box, Part Second, the Genealogical number is prefixed by the letter B, which becomes a part of the number, thus distinguishing the Hoskins branch from the Bronsdons ; for, although the Bronsdons descend from John Box, the Hoskinses do not descend from Robert Bronsdon. Generations are shown by a small Arabic numeral at the right of the name, just above the line. Lineal descendants have it at the right of Brons- don ; direct descendants through female branches have it at the right of the Christian name. The number of children is designated by small Roman numerals, thus : iv. Contents. Page Synopsis of Families Included in Bkonsdon and Box Genealogy, iii Preface, by Mrs. Harriet F. Parker v Early Origin of the Name and Family of Bronsdon .... viii Old English Bronsdon Wills xii Orthography of Bronsdon. Method, Abbreviations, etc. . xvi, xvii Part I. Descendants of Robert Bronsdon 1 Part II. Descendants of John Box 205 Appendices : I. Bant Family of Boston 254 II. Ancestry of Abigail (Baker) Bronsdon 266 III. Ancestry of Patty (Farrar) Bronsdon 270 IV. Ancestry of Ruth (Rich) Bronsdon 271 V. Ancestry of Louisa (McDuffee) Bronsdon 271 VI. Ancestry of Caroline E. (Mann) Marsh ....... 272 VII. Ancestry of Jno. Gould Loring 274 VIII. Ancestry of Creighton W. Parker 275 IX. Ancestry of Peter Vallette 276 X. Box Family in England and America 281 XI. Brinsdon Family in United States 285 XII. Ancestry of William Hoskins 285 (Appendix XII, contributed by Mrs. Eleanor (IIoskins) Waitt ) Corrections and Additions to Genealogy . . , 300 Index of Names in Genealogy 301 ILLUSTRATIONS. Harriet F., Wife of (525) Creighton W. Parker, Frontispiece Bronsdon Coat of Arms Decorated with Symbols of Amer- j9^']|; ican Independence x (196) Capt. Bant Bronsdon^ (born 1721) 92 Chair which Belonged to Capt. Bant Bronsdon^ .... 95 (282) Silhouettes of Mr. and Mrs. John Box Bronsdon* and Six of their Children, with Autograph of Robert Bronsdon^ 106 (299) Mrs. Thos. H. Marsh (Sarah Curtis Bronsdon^) .... 120 (434) Col. Lucius Bolles^ Marsh (with Autograph) 124 (B 1) John Box Bible, Printed 1708 140 (485) Margaret M. (Bronsdon) Parker and (526) Margaret E. Pakker 148 (603) Mrs. David C. Allison (Mary Jackson Bronsdon^) . . . 180 Box and Hoskins Old Family Silver 205 xix / PART I. ROBERT BRONSDOr AND His Descendants. Egbert Bronsdon, our first emigrant ancestor of the name of Brons- don, was b. , 1638-39 in England (see preceding pages for English relatives of Eobert Bronsdon) and d. in Boston, Province of Mas- sachusetts Bay, Nov. 22, 1701. His death is recorded by Samuel Sewall in his diary, as follows: -Nov. 23, 1701. M^ Brunsdon died the ni^ht before." ° The first mention of Robert Bronsdon in the colonial records, so far as yet discovered, was in 1667, when he was 29 years of age. He may have married in England and have been a widower, but we have no proof of it. We find that he married three times in New England. First marriage at Lynn, about ten miles north-east of Boston. " Robert Brimsdell (or Bronsdell) merchant of Boston and Bathsheba Richards of Lynn, April 15, 1667." There is no record of the second marriage, but it is abundantly proved. Robert Bronsdon and Mrs. Rebeckah (Hett ?) Cooley, Jan. (?) — , 1678. (For proofs, see later.) Mrs. Rebeckah Bronsdon was living in 1689.' The third marriage is recorded in the books of the Second or " Okie North Meeting House." " By the Rev. Cotton Mather, Robert Bronsdon to Hannah Breeme Apr. 12, 1694." Mrs. Hannah or " Anna " Bronsdon died in 1730. Mrjht Child)-en, all b. at the North End of Boston : (Of Robert and Bathsheba). (2) i. Mary Bronsdon", b. Sept. 22, 1668; d. youn- ^^^ 11. Elizabeth Bronsdon^, b. Aug. 27, 1670 (?)° d. Dec 9 17'>1 • m Samuel Greenwood. See below. ' ' iii. Mary Bronsdon^, b. Aug. 27, 1670; d. Sept. 5, 1737; m. Capt. Jonathan Evans. See below ^ iv. Joseph Bronsdon^ b. Aug. 7, 1672 ; d. , 1697, perhaps left widow, ''Desire or Dinah Brinsdell of Lynn." * yoTE. _ In the earliest deeds and records connected with our ancestor, his name IS most frequently given as Robert " Brimsdon." (3) (4) (5) 2 - PART I. (Of Egbert and Rebeck ah). (6) V. Rebeckah Bronsdon:', b. Oct. 7, 1679 ; d. young. (7) vi. Sarah Bronsdon", b. , 1682 ; d. , 1762 ; m. William Clark. See below. (8) vii. B.ohert Bronsdon", b. July 28, 1684 ; d. Oct. 13, 1695. (9) viii. Benjamin Bronsdon", b. Aug. 30, 1686; d. Apr. 12, 1757; m. first, Mary Bant, who d. Oct. 6, 1751 ; m. second, Elizabeth . No record of any children by third wife. BIOGRAPHY OF ROBERT BRONSDOK It matters little to us, beyond the gratification of curiosity, whether our far-back ancestors were nobles or peasants, for under American insti- tutions nobility consists of noble deeds. It is of more importance to ascertain their virtues, and, happily, we have the testimony of the Rev. Cotton Mather to the worth of our ancestor. In Vol. II, p. 489, of the " Magnalia," Mather's semi-historical work on New England, occurs the following acknowledgment: '' Worthy persons bearing some of the expense of producing the INIag- nalia, — CtOv"- Stoughton, Sam' Sewall Esq'", John Foster Escf, Adam Winthrop Escf and "my good friends M'' Robert Bronsdon and M^ Samuel Lely are those that have kindly mecenated my labors and may their names be found written in the Lambs Book of Life as well as ours." In 1674 the name of Robert Bronsdon appeared upon a preliminary tax list, from which the regular tax list was compiled. That is missing, but in others, 1676 and 1689, which have been preserved, we have a list of his possessions. See book of possessions, p. 146, for year 1689. ''Mr. Robert Bremsdon. 2 heads of family. 30 housings and wharf, 1 horse. 1 cowe. 50 'Trades' (vessels?) also Mr. Robert Brimsdon owned 'one neagroo.' " This list alone indicates that the Bronsdon family of Boston possessed means of obtaining every luxury and advantage known to the wealthier colonists. The meagerness of most inventories of those times show with what difficulty money was gained, and indeed there was but a small amount of it in circulation. Robert Bronsdon was educated as well, and was honorable in his deal- ings. When he died there were no debts against his estate, and we cannot find that he was referred to other than in terms of esteem and respect. He was an active and important factor in the upbuilding of the North End of BRONSDON FAMILY. Boston. He erected several handsome brick houses and also buildings for commercial purposes. His matrimonial alliances were made with discretion. He added much to the commercial importance of Boston, and it is an incon- trovertible fact that the merchants who built up foreign and coastwise trade did as much and more for the growth and well being of their country as did those who held the offices of selectmen, tythingmen, etc. Public office in the seventeenth century was not a matter of such moment as it became in after years. Only once have we found it on record that our ancestor held any office in the town of Boston, and doubtless he took it upon himself at that time, because the spirit of laAvlessness demanded that the best and most influential citizens should stand for its suppression. The record reads as follows : "March 1675-6. Robert Brinnesden elected constable and impowered to give notice to several persons by virtue of a law for preventing excessive drinking and disorder in private houses." On Nov. 11, 1678, Mr. Robert Bronsdon (and others) took the oath of allegiance administered by Gov. Leverett. He was then about 40 years old, but not until 1690 was he made " freeman," explained by the fact that for several years the custom fell into decay. The early records of Boston were carelessly kept. Late in the seven- teenth century it was voted in Town Meeting " That the Bookes of the Register of births and deaths in the Town of Boston shall be demanded by the selectmen in whose hands soever they be." Not until 1698 were they kept in book form ; before that they were written on loose sheets and kept in private houses, and many were lost. Thus it is often impossible to trace old Boston families in all their branches and relationships. Neither is existing material freely accessible. Much of it is buried in private hands or close societies, although additions are often made to printed records, and more liberal methods are being adopted in the dissemination of facts. Even the author of that magnificent work, the " Memorial History of Boston," apologizes for omissions in his work regarding the earlier families. How- ever, nothing can restore the precious records and documents destroyed by the numerous fires which devastated Boston in the early days, notably, the one which destroyed the Town House in 1747. An article published in the New England Historical-Genealogical Register, see Vol. XXXV, p. 361, by Hon. Robert H. Eddy, a Boston mer- chant who died about thirteen years ago, gives some facts in regard to Robert Bronsdon, which were obtained from his ancestress, Mrs. Martha (Bronsdon) Eddy, born 1742. He states that Robert Bronsdon, a distin- guished merchant of Boston, was born 1638, came from London, that he loaned money to William Phipps (afterward Sir William Phipps) to enable him to search for Spanish gold in the sunken treasure ship " Hispaniola." 4 PART I. William Phipps was a member of the Second Church, as well as Eobert Bronsdon. Persons of wealth were often called upon to " stand surety "' or vouch for newly arrived residents, as a guaranty against their becoming a charge on the town. Robert Bronsdon appears in two of these transactions. " I, Robert Bronsdon, doe binde myselfe to Thomas Brattle, treas., in the sume of Fortie pounds that Robert Fothergill shall not be chargeable to the town. Witness March 11, 1680-1. Robert Fothergill. Robert Bronsdon." One hundred years later the families of Bronsdon and Fothergill were living on terms of friendship, Bronsdons acting as sponsors in baptism for Fothergill infants, etc. Without date, " Robert Bronsdon (Brimsdon) merchant, became surety to the town for John Collier and family." This John Collier was of Salem in 1701, where he had purchased an estate with the assistance of Robert Bronsdon, who loaned him money on mortgage. In Vol. 12, p. 115, Massachusetts Historical Society Proceedings, is a copy of an old paper, as follows : " An account of Severall Ships and Vessels Trading Irregularly in the Ports of Boston, Salem, New London, &c in New England. The 18th day of Aprill 1689. The Pink Mary of Boston, William Blake, Master, loaden with 148 ho'^'^^ of Tobacco for which Bond was given in Maryland to carry the same for England but against the Master's will was put Ashore in Boston by the Owners (M"" Russell, Magistrate and M"^ Bronsdell (Brinisdell) owners) of the vessell whereby their Majesties lost above £1000 Sterling in the Customes. The Master complained thereof to the Gov'" but had no redress." A few words concerning the Commerce of Boston will aid in under- standing Robert Bronsdon's position and the difficulties merchants had to encounter. At first the colonists were employed in agriculture, hunting and fishing, but as their wealth increased they began to build ships and to busy them- selves in commerce. In 1675, vessels were engaged in trade with Spain, Fayal, Madeira, West Indies and the British Isles. The principal imports were to Boston, from which was shipped, coastwise, goods to other American ports. English merchants desired to control the trade of the Colonies, and in 1651 Parliament passed the first of what were known as ''Navigation Acts," which forbade the Colonies to trade with any country except Eng- land ; also, foreign ships were forbidden American ports. These acts which harassed commerce, and, later, manufactures, compelled merchants to engage in trade forbidden by law and also, by the payment of heavy bribes to revenue officers, to seek an opportunity for illegal foreign markets. These annoyances gradually increased until Sir Edmund Andros was BRONSDON FAMILY. sent over from England in 1G86 to demand the charter of Massachusetts Colony. This was surrendered, but in 1689 the incensed people seized Andros and sent him back to England. They were emboldened to this by the Revolution in England, when James II was driven from the throne and William and Mary became the ruling powers. The old charter was never restored, but William and Mary granted a new charter in 1691, by which the colonies of Plymouth and Massachusetts Bay, the Province of Maine and the territory of Nova Scotia were united into one colony by the name of Massachusetts Bay, and this remained in force until the Revolutionary War. ^ On the 7th of February, 1682, Mr. Bronsdon and others petitioned His Majesty's Officers for redress of certain grievances in regard to customs charges. (See Colonial Archives.) In Vol. 5, pp. 382-3 of Massachusetts Archives, we find a copy of court proceedings, as follows : 5 Jany 1682. Present. — Symon Bradstreet Esq. Gov., Thomas Danforth Esq. Dep. Gov., and nine others. "Att the opening of the Court the Honno'ble Govnno'' acquainted the Magis'« & company mett (seuverall mags'^ & deputyes from the southward not being able to come by reason of the extremity of the weather by deepe snows and floods) that he had received by M-" Foye a letter from His Mai'? w"' the act of his Maj'y^ most honn'ble council his maj^y being present which were mett and communicate to the whole Court then mett w"> another letter from his Maj^y ke^t by M'" Mason ab' a fortnight after October Court was up — tho' a copy of it signed by M-" Chamberlayne was made publick &c also our agents two letters w»^ copies of M-- Randolphs complaints to the comissioners of the customs of England w'^^ a copy of M^ Bronsons complaint to the lords of his raajestys most honnoVble privy council &c w^Ji are not only on file but m the council books recorded word for word. After the communication of the above mentioned the Court judged it raeete to keep the day of February as a solemn day to seeke the face of God and guidanc and direction from Him in so weighty a matter which was donn. The Court mett on the 9th instant February & after a further p vsall and comunication adjourned themselves till the 14th instant & When the whole Court mett and so from day to day were on the due consideration and debate of and about so momentuous a discharg of their duty to God, his Maj^^ and the concerns of the country and in fine the Court centered their conclusion of duty in an humble address to his Maj^y comission and letters to our agents, a letter to the W Honno^'*^ S-- Lionel Jenkm one of his Maj'^^ principall secretary s of State w«> a general addresse and general supscriptions of the inhabitants directed by way of most humble peticoiis to his maj^y all which w'h copies of seuverall cases as M^ Keep M'' Bronsdons & seuverall others were sent to our agents in and by M-- Thomas Joells master of Ship Richard in a box, which adresses, com- mission, instructions to our agent & letter at large recorded verbatim the acts of the council. PAKT I. It is ordered that there be a day of humiljation kept by the Court together on Tuesday next being the 13th of the instant Februaxy m the towne house at eight of the clock in the morning and that the Leund M Mather and W Willard be desired to preach and as many of the Keund elders neighboring be by their deputyes desired to be present also to implore divine direction and assistance in weighty matters now before the Court. An address accompanied this report, commencing "Most gracious gracious drad Soveraigne," in which was the following, appeal : '' Clouds of fear have arisen in the minds of very many good subjects lest we be deprived of those liberties and privileges which we hold in such high esteem and which ourselves and progenitors been at such great hazard & charge & encountered such extreme difficulties for the enjoyment thereof." Among the State papers in London is one bearing date of 1681, in which New England was estimated to contain 120,000 souls. It is also mentioned that " Fifteen merchants were worth £5000 each. The number of families was 1500. A freeman must then be worth as much as £200." Robert Bronsdon's estate inventoried £5000 in 1701, and that sum did not include the whole amount. Sir William Phipps' estate amounted to £3377 ; Thomas Kellond left £4884 in 1683 ; Samuel Corwin of Salem, the builder of the celebrated Witch house, died in 1685, with upwards of £5900, and was one of the richest men of that time ; Peter Sargeant was worth £3300 in the year 1715. In 1673 Robert Bronsdon was one of a company of public spirited and moneyed men of Boston, who commenced the construction of the " Barri- cado" or "Out wharves," which was 2200 feet long, and separated at intervals to allow of the passage of vessels. There were 41 per- sons engaged in the enterprise, and each one contracted to build from 20 to 120 running feet, in a substantial manner, to be about 15 feet high and 20 feet in breadth at the top, of sufficient strength to answer the pur- pose of a fortification on which heavy guns could be mounted. Atlantic Avenue now occupies about the same track as the Out wharves, and was constructed partly with earth obtained by the levelling of Fort Hill. (See Shurtleff's Description of Boston.) Drake says " The ' Olde Wharfe ' was a great circular sea wall built for purposes of defence by a number of the wealthy citizens of Boston at their own expense, saving that they thereby acquired ownership to the flats between the wall and the shore. In consequence many estates for a century and a half bounded on the circular line." The proprietors of the Sconce Division of wharfing as taken from Mr. Kendall's book in 1681, included among others, " Mr. Brondson 58| feet." The •' Sconce " was at the South End, or what is now India wharf. The BRONSDON FAMILY. Barricado was designed as a protection against invasion, particularly by the Dutch, who settled in New York and were inclined to push eastward. Mr. Bronsdon owned 150 feet of this wharf. By marriage to the Widow Cooley he acquired another large portion of the Out Wharf, built by Henry Cooley. Mr. Bronsdon had already built a wharf 100 feet deep. He also owned a wharf privilege purchased of John Paine. On Bronsdon's Wharf he let space for dockage of vessels. Robert Bronsdon was a member of the Second Church of Boston, the church of the Mathers. This church was gathered in IGoO. The first meeting house was built in North Square in 1649, burnt in 1676, rebuilt in 1677, and torn down for fuel by order of the British General Howe, in 1775. It was called the "Old North." In 1721 a church called the "New Brick" was built in Hanover Street by seceders from the Old North. After the destruction of their ancient house the worshippers of the Old North re-united with those of the New Brick, under Rev. Dr. Lathrop, June 27, 1779, again forming one society, and taking Avith their pastor the name and records of the Sec- ond Church. Several more changes of location have since occurred, and at the present day the church is located on Boylston Street, near Dartmouth, and its faith is Congregational-Unitarian. For nearly a century and a half the names of Bronsdon and related families appear in its records, which have proved of great value to us in this work. When Robert Bronsdon and Bathsheba Richards were wedded April 15, 1667, the spring was, as an old chronicler informs us, unusually forward, and apple trees were all abloom. Edward Richards, the father of Bathsheba, was a joiner or builder, born 1616, adm. freeman 1641, and resided on Essex Street, in the eastern part of Lynn, Massachusetts ; his descendants of the name remain. On the 3d of April, 1646, he sold to Daniel King a parcel of' land called Windmill Hill, being the east mound of what was later Sagamore Hill. He d. Jan. 26, 1689-90, aged 74 years. His wife Ann survived him. They had several children. The ancestral Richards home is now the Fay Estate, Lynn. Bathsheba's name appears with her husband's in certain deeds of real estate. , The Bronsdon home was at the North End of Boston, on what was later- Ship Street, then called " The Way from the old North Meeting House to Winnisimmet Ferry " or " Merry's Point." The estate is described in a deed from Paine to Bronsdon, recorded Jan. 16, 1672. (See Book 30 leaf 28, Suffolk Deeds) : " Bought of John Paine land in Boston on highway abutting on lane to the Buriall place (Copp's Hill) also dwelling house, brew-house and land 8 PART I. at North End on the street leading from the North Meeting house towards Merrys Point (Chelsea Ferry) bounded by John Maverick on the N.W., John Paine on the S.W. and Joshua Davis on the N.E." John Hull's release, dated Sept. 30, 1674, gives further details : — He describes the house as '^ the one Bronsdon now lives in also brew house with utensils, pump and well, fruite trees and other trees, 53 feet next the street by the sea side running back from said street 115^ feet, running along by a peere tree to a stake also a privilege of 12 feet upon the wharf of John Paine and land and housing near adjoining for shipping and load- ing goods and other liberties." (See Book 10, leaf 29, Suffolk Deeds.) Robert and his bride may have sailed from Lynn to Boston, as was the easier mode of travel, or they may have ridden on horse-back in order to enjoy the beautiful Spring sights and sounds. Until within the memory of the writer, the marshes which they would have had to cross were but little changed by the passage of a century or more of time. " The long dead level of the marsh a coloring of unreal beauty wore Through the soft golden mist of young love seen." Half way to Boston they would surely have stopped at " The Anchor Tavern," where the smiling landlord, Joseph Armitage, would have given them his most bounteous attention. Robert Bronsdon frequented this old inn, as many of his business papers show, which for one hundred and seventy years was the most celebrated hostelry in Essex county, and counted among its guests the most noted men of the times. For an excellent pic- ture of it, having the true old-time flavor, see " Lynn and Surroundings," by Clarence W. Hobbs, 1886. In two or three years after Bathsheba went to live in Boston a family named Cooley bought an estate adjoining them. Henry Cooley was a cooper, and had bought the " lance " (cooper) shop of Henry Fane. The Cooleys were prosperous, and owned much real estate. " Henery Cooley's greate stone wall " was a landmark in the neighborhood. Sometime after 1672, Bathsheba died, leaving three little children motherless. Who stepped in to take the mother's place we cannot know, but in the light of after events we may assume much neighborly kindness from Mrs. Cooley. In 1677, trouble came to the Cooley family also, for the husband and father went to his long home. We find no record of his death, but letters of administration issued to his widow tell the story. " By Honourable John Leverett Estf Gov"" by Edward Tyng assistant, June 30, 1677. •'' Power of administration upon the estate of Henry Cooley, late of Bos- ton, deceased, is granted to Rebeckah his relict in right of herself children and others therein She giving security to the administer according to BRONSDON FAMILY. law, and bringing in an inventory of the estate upon oath." Signed by Isaac Addington. Feb. 15, 1670, Henry Cooley purchased an estate at the North End, and in March, 1673, he bought of Henry Fane his lance shop. Dec. 29, 1676, Thomas Clarke conveyed to Cooley for £120, land and buildings at the North End, bounded N. E. on the Highway before the New Meeting house. This was a fine estate in North Square. Jan. 8, 1676, Liberty granted to Henry Cooley to build cellar wall, leaving 22 feet to the street. Henry Cooley built 40 feet of the out wharves. In a tax list of 1674, he pays town tax of 8 shillings and county tax of 7 shillings. In the birth records appear three children born to Henry and Rebeckah Cooley : — i. Rebeckah Cooley, b. Nov. 25, 1669 ; d. in infancy, ii. Mary Cooley, b. Feb, 24, 1671. iii. Henry Cooley, b. July 7, 1676. All these children had died before 1680. The inventory returned by the Widow Cooley comprised house-furnishing of a variety and quality pos- sessed only by well-to-do families, besides considerable real estate. Rebeckah relied upon her neighbor Mr. Bronsdon for guidance in busi- ness affairs ; we find proof of it in the following '' surrender " when Robert Bronsdon signed as witness, '' Rebeckah Cooley did give up 20 of the 40 feet of the out or grand wharf in obedience to a receipt produced by Nich- olas Moulder for £30 that he paid Henry Coulley for the same." This paper is dated Dec. 17, 1677, and is the last time she appears as Mrs. Cooley in the records. On Sept. 8, 1678, she was received into the covenant at the Second Church as Rebeckah Bronsdon. Oct. 7, 1679, a daughter, Rebeckah, was born to Robert and his wife. (See records of Second Church.) Mrs. Rebeckah Bronsdon is the ancestress of all who bear the name of Bronsdon, also of the descendants of Mrs. Sarah Clark. The marriage was eminently suitable. She was of an aspiring turn of mind, for soon the Bronsdons were engaged in building a fine new mansion house, to which they removed. It seems fitting to introduce here a few extracts from various writers, descriptive of the Boston of the time we are now writiu"- In 1675, '' The equality of fortunes was remarkable, even for that age of simple habits, general industry and morality. There were only 15 or 20 merchants with so much as £500 apiece, but there were no beggars. Indian wigwams and the thousand habitations of the people sent their smoke into 10 PART I. the self same heavens. Indian canoes and fishing and coasting craft, as well as merchantmen loading for the West Indies, Spain and Africa, floated on the waters of the harbor. A score of Indian tribes yet maintained a foothold in Eastern Massachusetts, part of which was then primeval forest." In a quaint book of travels, written in 1672, we read that the town (Boston) was rich and populous. " The houses are for the most part raised on the sea banks, many of them standing upon piles close together on each side of the street as in London, and furnished with many fair shops. Their materials are of brick, stone and lime, handsomely contrived with their meeting houses and a town house built upon pillars where the Merchants confer. On the south side there is a small but pleasant Common where the gallants walk with their marmalet madams at sunset until the 9 o'clock bell rings them to their respective habitations when presently the Constables walk their rounds with lanthorns to see that good order is kept." " The North End was then the most elegant and populous part of Boston. The situation was delightful with an easy slope to the harbor and fine views both landward and seaward. The houses of the merchants stood on the harbor front overlooking their warehouses and commanding a view of the sparkling waters through the towering masts of their ships. In 1675 there were 7000 inhabitants in Boston." " Gentry in America then consisted of those who were gentry in Eng- land also the clergy and college graduates and the richest persons of those engaged in mercantile and marine pursuits. These elements combined by intermarriage to form an aristocracy Avhose claims as such were admitted by all." Equality of station was a thing unknown in New England as well as in old England. The costume of a gentleman in Robert Bronsdon's day was "coat and waist coat of imported cloth, knee breeches, fine linen, silken hose and shoes with silver buckles. A gold headed cane of some rare West Indian wood was usually carried by those of middle age. Periwigs were worn." These brief extracts from the writings which survive those times give small hi:it of the Avealth of colonial lore accessible to the reader, and which must always possess a fascination for a certain intelligent class in the com- munity. In 1692 or 1693, death once more invaded the home of the Bronsdons, removing the wife and mother. Of Mrs. Rebeckah Bronsdon's parentage we are not able to give certain information. The question may never be satisfactorily answered, yet Ave think it will. Robert Bronsdon owned a house in Charlestown, the old Hett estate, which in some way was connected in ownership with Rebeckah's relatives. The Hetts were an old and respected family, attendants at the Second Church. They inter-married with Lyndes and Willards. There was a Thomas Hett who married Annie Needham of Boston, and died 1688 aged 75 years. Thomas Hett was of Cambridge BRONSDON FAMILY. H 1G32, Hingham 1637, and also of Charlestown and Maiden. His widow Anne sold (to Everton) her garden in 1681, and her heirs, Hannah Hurry, Mehitabell Turner, Mary Frothingham and Dorothy Hett, conveyed half the house (in Charlestown) to Funnel) Everton, and Everton mortgaged it to Robert Bronsdon, and it finally became his property. In the division of his estate, his and Eebeckah's daughter, Sarah, received this old Hett house as a part of her inheritance. Hannah Hurry afterward married a Mr. Rand, (See Wyman's Charlestown Estates for Hett ; also abstract of deed from Middlesex Registry later given in this book), and she may have been Rebeckah's sister. All the lineal descendants of Robert Bronsdon are through his only surviving son, Benjamin Bronsdon^, whose mother was Rebeckah. Note. — Lineal descendants are those bearing the surname as well as the blood of an ancestor. Others of the blood, but of different surnames, are direct descendants. Of course, a lineal descendant is also directly descended. In both the second and third generations the Bronsdon name came near to extinction. In the fourth generation tliere were but four males, two of whom only are known to have lineal descenants in the United States, aiid they are few in number, the name being rare, and the same is true of the Bronsdon or Brinsdon family in England. Our ancestor exemplified human nature with fidelity in his three marriages. Bathsheba Richards and he Avere young together; while esteem was undoubtedly present as a factor in the second marriage, yet both parties found gratification for ambition in the match. The third wife was about the age of Robert Bronsdon's eldest daughter, and their union was typical of December and May. Hannah Breenie, or Breame, was the daughter of Benjamin and Anne Breame of Hingham, and was born July 26, 1668. She had a brother, Robert Breame, who married Ann Barnes, and thus arose the mistake of Mr. Savage, who states in his great genealogical Avork that Robert Bronsdon married Ann Barnes, but adding a well founded expression of doubt as to the correctness of his assumption. Mrs. Hannah Bronsdon invariably signed her name " Anna." She may have disliked plain, old-fashioned humdrum living as well as old-fashioned names, and so have appreciated highly those luxuries with Avhich wealth could surround her. That she was a companion for the children, without haughty assumption of authority, is easily divined by the arrangements made for her in her husband's will a few years later, and no doubt her Avishes Avere his guide in the matter. There is reference to a ••' marriage con- tract," but the document has not been preserved. "Previous to this union, Elizabeth and Mary Bronsdon had been married, and were settled in homes of their own near their father's house. Possibly Joseph Bronsdon was also married and settltid at Lynn. His name appears in some of the transac- tions connected with the "Spring Pond " Estate, his grandfather Richards' 12 PART I. early home, and which his uncle, Daniel Richards, had sold to Robert Bronsdon, styling it in the deed of conveyance an '< estate of inheritance." Young Joseph Bronsdon died a short time before his father, about 1697. In the Lynn records we find that Thomas Dwinell married a Desire or Dinah Brimsdell (or Bronsdell) of Lynn (''so called"), in May, 1701. (See Dvvinnell Genealogy.) There were three minor children when Mr. Bronsdon married his third wife, viz., Sarah, aged 14 years, and Robert, Jr.^ and Benjamin, 10 and 8 years respectively. Robert, Jr., died the next year, 1695, and in 1697 (probably) Joseph the eldest son passed away. These cruel bereavements must have been felt very sensibly by their father, who ever manifested strong parental regard for his children. While in the full tide of affairs, building new houses, developing his property in every direc- tion, with his laden ships at sea, Robert Bronsdon was stricken with a fatal illness. Evidently it was a sudden illness. Samuel Sewall in speaking of his death expressed a hope that " the sickness " would not return. Our ances- tor must have felt that his time had come, for his will was made only six- teen days before his death. It is a model of good English and correct spelling, as well as indicative of justice and warm attachment to relatives and friends. Undoubtedly the composition is his own, and the signature is firm and elegant. A few days before the will was made, ere his illness was deemed seri- ous, the Hon. Waitstill Winthrop, his neighbor, called upon him, and an unpleasant encounter followed, which Winthrop wrote about in a letter to a friend. This letter has been preserved, and its reading will provoke a- smile from every true Bronsdon we doubt not. " Boston Nov'\ 3"*, 1701. Dear Brother I intended when Court was over to have com that way (New London, Conn.) but going to visit on Neibour Brinsdell who- is ill last Thursday night his dogg bit thre holes in the small of my legg to the bone which has been so angry and painful to me I have not been able to- stir since and I fear will lay me up all winter though it is a little easier to day." (See Mass. Hist. Soc. Proceedings, Vol. 5, p. 102.) Winthrop's wharf was between Bronsdon's and Richards' wharves. In our history of the life of our ancestor there is much left to conjec- ture. Still to the observant mind a great deal is evident that is not a mat- ter of set records. First, there is the bold, resolute, adventurous young- Englishman, probably a "mariner," quite likely master of his own vessel, who, in his visits to the colony, is quick to apprehend the opportunities awaiting him for trade and investment. He is not one of those who, having crossed the ocean, must perforce stay even though affrighted at the savage- ness of the new land where a mere handful of civilized people cling to the BRONSDON FAMILY. 13 outer border of the unknown. But Robert Bronsdon has a heart for such a trial ; he has means to live well in England, and has many dear friends there, but he enjoys the sense of power which his success affords him, and he values liberty, — so zealous is he of those liberties that their infringe- ment rouses him to manly protest. Withal he is modest. In his domestic and church relations, he appears blameless. He is methodical and exact. No debts are left for his executor to pay, except those incurred after his ill- ness and for his funeral expenses. He meets death as he has ever the exigencies of life, with faith and resignation for himself, and earnest thought and preparation for the future of his loved ones who must live without his care with his only son doomed to a long and expensive minority. All this and more may be read between the lines, which tell us of his life and achievement. The printed records tell us of his possessions, his home and the arti- cles of furniture within it, his neighbors, friends and business associates, his church and pastors, and much more. One relic of him survives. A large and finely printed book published in 1683, and written by Nathaniel Ingelo. The title "Bentivolio and Urania." It is a learned treatise on morality and religion, slightly disguised in story form, seasoned with liberal Greek quotations, and shows its author to have been much in advance of his time in refinement and liberality of sentiment. It is dedicated to William, Lord Brereton, of Brereton, Cheshire Co., England. The estate of Robert Bronsdon is charged with a sum equal to about $1200.00 for the expenses of his funeral. In Sewall's Diary there is a hiatus of twelve days after his announce- ment of Mr. Bronsdon's death, and we have not discovered any account of the ceremonies by other writers. Still such may be in existence. It has been remarked that history needs a revision every thirty years on account of the discovery of new material. Beyond question, the customs then in vogue obtained at our ancestor's burial. One writer speaking of funerals before 1730, says : " At that time very little sanctity attended the last rites. " Great parade was made at the funerals of the rich : gloves, gold rings and mourning scarfs were presented to those in attendance. Near friends acted as bearers carrying the body on a bier on the shoulders, there being relays as occasion required. In the procession males and females walked apart, but those of the same sex of the deceased and nearest in relationship walked nearest the remains. " Officers with staffs and mourning badges accompanied the procession ; on returning from the grave a liberal entertainment was dispensed, includ- ing wines and liquors. No funeral sermons were preached, which is the 14 PART I. more remarkable as the good old Divines of that time were not prone to let slip golden opportunities of holding forth for the edification of their people." (See History of Lynn.) The burial place of the Bronsdons Avas but a stone's throw from the house, on Windmill (afterward Copps') Hill. The tomb Avas in what is now called the "Old Ground" of the <' North Burial Place," and is owned by the heirs of Lorenzo Burge, late of Boston. In 1718, Robert Bronsdon's son Benjamin had a very large tomb constructed (in a new range bordering on Hull Street), which is the present Bronsdon Tomb, Number One, Old Ground. The old tomb remained in the family until after the death of the last of Benjamin Bronsdon^'s children, when the heirs of the fourth generation empowered their oldest member, Mrs. Curtis, to sell it to William Abrams of Boston. The bodies were removed to the present Bronsdon tomb. There have been between twenty-five and thirty interments in the new tomb, the last being that of Sarah Dennis, a grand-daughter of Capt. Bant Bronsdon^. The quaint old burial place on Copp's Hill is well Avorth a visit, partic- ularly to those whose ancestors there " sleep their last sleep." Nowhere else do visions of the past so vividly arise. How much the place meant to them. Within a few steps they lived, joyed and suffered, their little ones played about the hill, or walked sedately with their elders upon a Sabbath twilight. Here in the dew-laden grass . one fair Bronsdon maid tripped along in dainty slippers, and taking cold from her imprudence, fell a prey to dread consumption, and now she, too, is laid in the tomb of her fathers. PvELATING TO CONVEYANCES OF REAL ESTATE. The deeds of property in which Robert Bronsdon was grantee or grantor, together with other papers relating to his estate, would, if pub- lished in full, make a good-sized book of themselves. We Avill therefore confine ourselves to brief abstracts of some (not all). In order to avoid confusion we will give each'group separately, but not strictly in rotation, viz.: Essex, Suffolk, Middlesex and York County (Me.) Registries. At the Essex Registky of Deeds, Salem, Mass. Thomas to Bronsdon ; recorded June 25, 1670. George Thomas con- veys a small parcel of land in Salem about 20 rods situated between the shop and land of William Curtice and the house and land of Humphrey Coombes and on a Avay separating it from Mary Searle. Witnessed by Joseph Armitadge, Edward Richards and William Howard. (See Book 3, leaf 83.) Note. Mr. Armitage, who died 1680, was the landlord of the "Anchor Tavern," the half-way house between Salem and Boston. Mr. Richards was Mr. Bronsdon's father-in-law. BRONSDON FAMILY. 15 Knight to Bronsdon; 4"^ mo, 15"', 1675. John Knight conveys a house " 18 foot brocad and 2G foot in length with 24 poles of land in Salem that was formerly owned by Thomas Watson also a 10-acre lott adjoining Mr. Paul Thorndike in Beverly with house, land, barn, fencing," etc., for a consideration of 50 pounds. (Book 4, leaf 114-115.) Release signed by John Knight, Jun'', and Jacob Pudeator. Note. The possibility has been considered that Robert Bronsdon brouglit from England a wife with whom he resided in Salem, and that her name before marriage was Knight. In an old family paper (see the Greenwood Branch) this theory receives some conrirniation. If this was the case, the intimacy of the Knights and Bronsdons is explained. This family of Knight was some time of Newbm-y. Madam Sarah Knight witnessed the will of Robert Bronsdon, and afterward helped to do writing for the estate. " Jerson " (Ireson) to Bronsdon, Jan. 30, 1676. Samuel Ireson of Lynn convej'ed to Robert Bronsdon, merchant of Boston, and John Smith, butcher, a certain tract of land " scittuat " at Lynn containing 50 acres of upland and "medoAv" as it was granted to his father Edward Ireson bounded by land of John Hawkes and Abraham Welman together with the timber and timber trees, woods, mines, minerals and all appertaining thereto in equal shares. Witnessed by James Taylor. John Endicott and Thomas Kemble. (Book 4, leaf 146.) Note. This land was at North Saugus, ijear the Iron Works. Bronsdon passed the property by deed to Philip Knell (Neal ?). Hodge to Bronsdon, Aug. 8, 1685. Robert Bronsdon loaned Robert Hodge of Salem £100 sterling, taking a deed of house and 1 acre of land in Salem as security. Witnessed by Carbry Dermott and Laurence Walters (the latter " about 50 years old "). Acknowledged before John Richards and Samuel J^ewhall. Accompanying this mortgage deed is the following '^Declaration.- — Robert Bronsdon aged about 46 years and Samuel Lilly (Lely ?) about 22 years testify and depose that they were present and saAV Robert Hodge, late of Salem, mariner, signe, seal and as his act and deed in due forme deliver this deed of sale above and that these deponents set to their hands as wit- nesses." Sworn in Boston Oct. 24, 1685, before John Richards. Robert Hodge also sold his sloop "Friendship" at the same time and the "Decla- ration" relates to that sale also. (See Book 7, leaf 41.) Greeley to Bronsdon, Aug. 25, 1687. Philip Greeley for a valuable consideration sells house and land "no description place not given but pre- sumed to be Salem," to Robert Bronsdon, merchant of Boston. Witnessed by Joseph Bronsdon and Samuel Jones. Philip Greeley appeared before me one of the Councell of this His Majesties Territory and Dominion of New England and acknowledged the above written instrument to be his act and deed. (Signed) John Usher. Bronsdon to Greeley, Oct. 15, 1687. Robert Bronsdon of Boston "with consent of my now wife Rebeckah Bronsdon" conveys the house formerly bought of George Thomas in Salem on June 25, 1670, to Philip Greeley for 16 PART I. a valuable consideration part of which is one-half part of the "Catch.'' Philip and Mary. Witnessed by John Viall Jun"" and Thomas Kemble. (Book 7, leaf 147.) King to Bronsdon, Feb. 24, 1693. Elizabeth, widow of Daniel King Sen"" by this Indenture made 24"* February 1693, in the 6th year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord & Lady William & Mary and Daniel King eldest son of s'^ Elizabeth for a consideration of £220 do sell and convey to Robert Bronsdon merch' of Boston about Five hundred acres more or less in the town of Lynn about or almost one-half of farm lately purchased by Major William Browne and Mr. Benjamin Browne at Cedar Swamp running to Lynn Commons and Richards land and to Benjamin Farrs land and Swampscott pond or '' Brooke " and the Sea, with dwelling and other houses orchard trees and timber trees underwoods and water courses &q and it is further understood that the same Elizabeth and Daniel King well and truly pay unto Robert Bronsdon the full and just summe of £220 '* currant" money of New England on or before the 1st day of March 1695, and interest at 6 per cent for the same and also that Robert Bronsdon have liberty for two horses to run upon the farm of said Kings from day of date for a space of Two years. If the money be so paid then this Indenture shall be utterly void otherwise of full effect. Witnessed by William Hall, Henry Mayer (Mayo) and William Millborne. (Book 11, leaf 122.) Note. The preceding relates to the celebrated Swampscott Farm, which included what in recent times has been known as " Paradise," in the town of Swampscott. Notwithstanding that Mrs. King made every effort to raise the neces- sary sum from relatives and others, she did not succeed, and the land eventually became Robert Bronsdon's. The history of this estate is very interesting. May 6, 1635, Swampscott farm and a fresh pond with a little island was granted John Humphrey, Esq., Assistant of the Colony, and as he was to take 500 acres not nearer than five miles of any town then planted, he selected the land lying between North and West Saugus (afterward Lynn, Mass.). His lands covered about 1300 acres, but his Avife, Lady Susan, daughter of the Earl of Lincoln and sister of Lady Arabella Johnson, wished to return to England, being weary of the wilderness and wild beasts and Indians. At length, in 1644, Mr. Humphrey yielded to her wish and returned to England, selling Swampscott Farm to Sir Henry Moody, who, with his mother, was of the church in Salem in 1640. It was said of her by a contemporary author: "Lady Moody lives at Lynn but is of Salem church, a good woman almost undone by buying Master Humphries farm." Dec, 1642, Lady Moody was in Court, for "holding that the baptism of infants were no ordinance of God," and the next year she removed to New Amsterdam to enjoy liberty of conscience. The Moodys sold their property to the King family, which Avas an enterprising one for, in addition to farming and fishing, they carried on a varied sort of trade with Barbadoes. They became embarrassed, and in their dilemma applied to Robert Bronsdon for a loan, but not before they had had certain transactixjns with Major William and Benjamin Browne of Salem, but the title remained with the Kings, whose name is perpetuated in King's Beach, Swampscott. BRONSDON FAMILY. 17 The Swampscott Farm bordered on the Richards estate (now the Fay estate), which Mr. Bronsdon purchased a few years later. As to tlie ultimate disposal of the Swampscott Farm, Robert Bronsdon sold sixty acres of the land, on which was a dwelling house and barn at Fishing Point, in the Towne of Linne, to Henry Mayer. The witnesses to the deed were Anthony Stoddard, his old neighbor and friend in Boston, and his son-in-law. Captain Jonathan Evans; this was in February, 1696. (See Essex Registry Deeds, Lib. xii, folio 72.) A few years later he disposed of another portion to Mr. Joseph Blaney, whose lineal descendant, Elbridge G. Blaney, has this year celebrated his own golden wedding in the original Blaney house, the estate having remained in the Blaney family for exactly 200 years. An abstract of the deed (see Lib. xix, folio 18) is as follows : On Sept. 27, 1700, in consideration of ninety pounds paid by Joseph Blaney of Lynn, shipwright, Robert Bronsdon, merchant of Boston, conveys one quarter part of 200 acres, more or less, containing field and vxpland ; about forty-three acres more or less of Cedar Swamp, also certain " Beach ease- ments." (See Essex County Deeds.) The witnesses were Theophilus Burrell and Madam Sarah Knight (authoress of the famous Diary). Mr. Blaney mortgaged back the place to Robert Bronsdon and made three payments, one of £17 and one of £76, and the third, of £9, was paid shortly after IMr. Bronsdon's death in Xovember, 1701, the money being sent by "Philip Bread." At the same time that Robert Bronsdon sold to Joseph Blaney he sold 120 acres to John Burrill, maltster. " Three-quarter parts of field, upland and meadow, containing about 120 acres (the other quarter part Robert Bronsdon hath sold to Joseph Blaney as by deed bearing even date) situated in the Towne of Lynn in a place commonly known by ye name of Swampscott and formerly the land of Cap- tain Ralph King, late of Lynn, and I purchased the same of the widow and his heirs, bounded on the town Commons, partly on John Richards's land, partly on land formerly known as Winters and partly on Benjamin Farr's land, west and southwest partly on land called Smith's Hill and partly on Walter Phillips, on the ditch wall and Joseph Blaney . . . with a highway privilege through the land of Walter Phillips the same as the widow King reserved for herself in the Phillips deed." (See Essex County Registry of Deeds, Lib. xiv., folio 223.) John Burrill died and his son Ebenezer Burrill purchased the remainder of the Swampscott farm of Robert Bronsdon's heirs in 1723. The Bronsdons had owned the land for over a quarter of a century ; it formed part of their summer residence and hunting grounds. Rev. Cotton Mather relates that he used to go pleasuring to the Spring Pond place (now the Fay estate) in Lynn, and as, in his own words, he described ]\Ir. Bronsdon as '• my good friend, may his name be written in the Lamb's Book of Life," he doubtless enjoyed the beauties of ''ye Swampscot Farme" also. The deed was signed by the Bronsdon heirs and witnessed by Samuel Clark and Samuel Parkman on Nov. 4, 1723. (See Essex Registry of Deeds, Lib. xL, folio 110.) The old Humphrey house was standing in 1865. It was owned by the Burrill family (long known as the Royal Family of Lynn) until 1797, when it was sold to Mr. Robert Hooper (the "King" Hooper of Marblehead), and by his daughter, Mrs. Hannah (Hooper) Reed, was sold to Enoch Redington Mudge, Esq., who built, near the old house, a beautiful gothic stone cottage. Under the name of "Paradise," that part of the Swampscott Farm became 2 18 PART I. famous. Only quite recently lias this magnificent estate been divided and built upon, some superb residences having been built near the old house. (See Boston Transcript, Oct. 10 and Dec. 12, 1900, and History of Lynn.) The " Richards " Estate at Spring Poxd, Lyx:n^. Richards to Bronsdon, June 10, 1696. Daniel Richards, mariner, of Lynn (brother in law to Robert Bronsdon) released certain lands of inheri- tance at a place called Spring Pond in the town of Lynn, upland and low- land, bounded as follows : West upon the Town Commons, South west upon Spring Pond, South east upon Muddy Pond, North east from an " Ocke " tree marked, and straight towards the Old Pond, so called, or Muddy Pond. Also it is to be further understood that the said Daniel Richards has also sold to the said Robert Bronsdon his new house lately built upon the Spring Lott and has full satisfaction for it. Witnessed by Thomas Johnson, Henry Ingraham and Joseph Bronsdon (oldest son of Robert Bronsdon and nephew of Daniel Richards.) (See Book^ 11, leaf 122.) Note. This beautiful estate formed a continuation of tlie Swampscott Farm, and circumstances seem to favor tlie conclusion that it was purchased as a residence for his son Joseph, whose name appears as witness on that and other Lynn deeds. .Joseph probably died in 1697, and in January, 1698, Robert Bronsdon sold the Spring Pond estate to John Clifford. Mr. Clifford did not live long to enjoy his purchase; he died the follow- ing June, ''in the 68th yeare of his age," and some mischievous person has altered the date 1698, making his tombstone read 1628. Mrs. Elizabeth Allen of Salem then bought the property, and she disposed of it to her son- in-law, John Caspar Richter von Crowninscheldt, a German, in June, 1700, the deed specifying "20 acres of land neere a certain pond called the Spring Pond with all the houses, buildings, waters, fishings," etc. Rev. Cotton Mather sings the praises of this beautiful retreat and extols the virtues of its medicinal spring. There was fishing in the pond, hunting in the wood and beautiful paths in every direction. The little lake is sometimes called Lynnmere. In 1847, a gentleman named Fay purchased the estate, and has pre- served it in all its sylvan beauty. The writer, in strolling through the grounds over twenty years ago, was reminded of the descriptions of old baronial estates. It would seem that this spot, if any, might retain some- thing of the aspect which was familiar to the Bronsdons. It was the girl- hood home of Robert Bronsdon's wife, Bathsheba. " Paradise," at Swampscott, and the Fay estate, at Lynn, are two of the most famous of the old-time private residences in Essex County, and it is a coincidence that Robert Bronsdon should have once owned them both. Harvey to Bronsdon, (mortgage) Feb. 23, 1701. Thomas Harvey of Almsbury (Amesbury) weaver, and Sarah his wife for the sum of 89 pounds 8 shillings currant silver money of New England convey as security for the BRONSDON FAMILY. 19 repayment thereof land and dwelling house at a place called "The Peake " Avhich was bought of Eev. Thomas Wells and John Hoyt Sen'' and Jun'' and Nathan Gould in IGSo. Witnessed by Sarah and John Penwill and Anthony Stoddard. (Book 37, leaf 53.) Note. This mortgage was redeemed in 1718, and the fact is dulv inscribed on the margin of deed tliat Mr. Penwill liad died and liis widow liad married a Maxwell. Collier to Bronsdon. Feb. 23, 1701. Mortgage deed for loan of 52 pounds to said Collier in whom Robert Bronsdon had a special interest ; he became " surety " for him as an inhabitant of Boston. Witnesses, Anthony Stoddard and Thomas Cawte. (Book 12, leaf 123.) Note. These two also witnessed the will of Robert Bronsdon a few months later. We will conclude these memoranda from Essex County Registry with an abstract of a deed given to the purchaser of the ''Knight place," so called, in Salem, John Williams. Est. of Robert Bronsdon to John Williams, Oct. 27, 1708. "To all unto whome this present deed of sale shall come, Benjamin Bronsdon of Boston in New England, merchant, only son of Robert Bronsdon late of Boston aforesaid, deceased, and Samuel Greenwood of Boston, shipwright, executor of the last Will and Testament of said deceased and Elizabeth the wife of said Samuel Greenwood, one of the daughters of said deceased — and Jonathan Evans of said Boston, mariner, and ^Nfary his wife one other daughter of said deceased — and William Clark and Sarah his wife one other daughter of said deceased — in consideration of £20 of passable money of New England well and truly paid by John Williams of Salem, cooper, convey a certain parcel of land containing by estimate 24 poles of ground, more or less, being in breadth 3 poles and in length from the Common northerly backward 8 poles formerly land of Jacob'Pudeator, blacksmith, of Salem, lately deeded by him to John Knight and by said Knight to Robert Brons- don." Signed by all the heirs, all of whom were able to write. Deeds in which Robert Bkoxsdon is Graxtee or Grantor in Suffolk Registry, Boston, Mass. [The first 10 volumes of Suffolk Deeds are printed and can be found in most large libraries.] Severns to Brimsdon. Jan. 16, 1672, recorded Apr. 16, 1672, in Book 10, 6. Samuel and Sarah Severns convey all that small parcell of land lying and being at the North End of the Town of Boston nigh Merryes Point bounded south by Roger Rose, west by the upland, east by low water. Paine to Brimsdon. March 30, 1672, John Paine who bought of John Webb conveys a parcel of land containing in front 374- feet in length 52 feet in rear 44^ feet bounded in front northwestward with a highway lead- ing to the Buriall Place (Charter Street) on northeastward by land of Daniel Henchman on southeastAvard by land of John Paine and on the west by a common Avay 6 feet wide and separating it from William Greenough. (See Deed 265 in printed records.) Note. This estate was disposed of to William Hobbie, merchant, in 1675. 20 PART I. Another deed of conveyance, Paine to Bronsdon, Jan. 16, 1672, with John Hull's "release," Sept. 30, 1674, has been given in preceding pages. The estate referred to then formed the homestead of Robert Bronsdon and was on Ship Street, afterward North Street. For these deeds, see Book 10, p. 29, Suffolk Registry. Paine to Bronsdon, 1673. "To all People to whome this Deed of Sale shall come John Paine of Boston in the Massatlmsetts Colloine of New England, Merch' sendeth Greeting : Know yee that the s*^ John Paine for and in consideration of a valewable some of money and curant payment in hand paid by Robert Brimsdon (Bronsdon) of the same Boston the Receight whereof the s'^ Paine doth hereby owne and acknowledge, Hath Given, Granted, Bargained, Sould, Enfeoffed and Confirmed and do hereby &c unto the s'^ Robert Brimsdon merch* his heires and assighnes forever a parcell of land to the quantity of thirtye acors as by deed of Sept 18 1666 appereth: it being the easternmost corner of that tract .... adjoining to Balepute Hill : together with all the woods. Timber, Stones, Quarries with all and singular the Rights, Profits, easements, Priveledges and Appurtenances thereunto belonging • In witness whereof John Paine hath hereunto putt his hand and scale this day of 1673 Regui Regis Caroly Secundi XXV."' Witnessed by signed John Paine (and a seal) Nathaniel Greenwood & Thomas Lockwood. Ack. before Saml. Stmonds Dep. Gov'' Note. In the original copy, of wliicli the above is an extract, occurs the expres- sion, " abutting east on Boston line." The town owned several tracts of land outside the peninsula, one of which was at Muddy River (Brookline), at one time comprised with Cambridge (the New town). Baldpate Hill, also anciently known as " Paine Hill," was in Newton. Robert Bronsdon nor his heirs ever conveyed this land in any deed upon record. Title to property in that neighborhood was often " vague." The Paine deed of 1660 seems to be missing also. Kellond to Bronsdon 1678. Thomas Kellond and wife Abigail convey to Bronsdon for 75 pounds a piece of wharfing as it now stands on the range of the out wharf containing 20 feet and which is the same that Henry Cooley deceased sold unto James Loyd and said Loyd to Thomas Kellond and situ- ted next the piece that Robert Bronsdon had with his wife Rebeckah Cooley. (See Book 31,390.) In 1680 Kellond with consent of wife Abigail and 25 pounds paid by Robert Bronsdon conveyed to s'* Bronsdon outwharves and flatts before the town of Boston. (Book 1, leaf 581, No. 22.) Jan. 1680, Robert and Rebeckah Bronsdon gave separate deeds of con- veyance to Anthony Hayward of an estate in Boston bounded by Henry Cooley's estate with "long warehouse, wharf already built, flatts," for a con- sideration of £100 of which £320 remained on mortgage. Witnessed by Henry Armitage and Thomas Kemble. Robert and Rebeckah Bronsdon also conveyed an estate in the same neighborhood (adjoining Walter Merry) to John Turell, at which time the following testimony was given : — BRONSDON FAMILY. 21 " Mr. Thomas Kemble testified upon oath that he was present and saw Robert Bronsdon and his wife seale and deliver this instrument as their act and deed and hee did then subscribe his name as a witness and did see Robert Bronsdon Jun'' do the like. Sworn Aug. 16 1683, bef. Isaac Adding- ton." (Book 12, leaf 13.) Was Robt. Bronsdon Jun'' our Robert's cousin from London ? Bought of John Davis, '• taylor," various parcels of land on the high- way leading to Winnisimmet Ferry adjoining Nathaniel Greenwood on the west, land formerly of Payne " now of William Downes " on the Avay that " leadeth to the North Battery."' The earliest of these deeds is dated 1677. Some of the land adjoined George Nowell, blacksmith. (Book 13, leaf 36.) Edward Cricke, tailor, borrowed £'100 of Robert Bronsdon, giving deed of his house near the millpond as security which he redeemed in 1688. (Book 13, leaf 404.) Maverick to Bronsdon. Katherine widow of John Maverick did on August 12, 1680, for £60 convey her house and land by the advice of her father Elias Maverick, bounded by Bronsdon's land and on the west by Capt. Wait Wiuthrop, John Pearse, Richard Tuttle, also part of the Well. Witnessed by John Hayward and Ebenezer ]\[oody. (Book 11, leaf 391.) Ballard to Bronsdon. Jan. 20 1695-6. Jarvis Ballard and Martha his wife conveyed one-half acre at the North End of Boston bounded north by Simon Lynde, decsd. and JMr. Samuel Ruck, east by Hezekiah Brownes house and land, south by the highway and west by Samuel Hudson. (Book 17, leaf 198.) Stanbury to Bronsdon. Jan. 22 1695-6. Thomas Stanbury and wife Mary for a loan of £39 convey as security for the payment of said loan two parcels of land situate and lying upon the island commonly called Long Island within the lines and bounds of Boston, one parcel containing one and a quarter acres more or less and the other four acres more or less, both parcels being every way butted and bounded Avith the lands of John Nelson, to Robert Bronsdon his heirs and assigns forever. Payment was arranged for in yearly sums of £3 each for 13 years. Witnessed by Jarvis Ballard, William Rowse and Laurence Hammond. (Book 17, leaf 200 Suffolk Reg. of Dee^ls.) IVoTE. Thomas Stanbury, a shop keeper of Boston and owner of the famous "Feather Store" (built 1680, demolished 1860) was one of the original "renters" of Long Island. In 1666-7, the town relinquished its rights to the renters on certain con- ditions, supposed to have been fulfilled, as Mr. John Nelson purchased of said renters, except Thomag Stanhnnj, all their rights in the Island. (Tliis Mr. Xelson was the person who compelled Sir Edmund Andros to surrender himself and the fort on Fort Hill to the colonists.) He sold his part of Long Island to the Brownes of Salem for £1200, but it reverted again to Mr. Nelson, whose heirs dis- posed of it to Mr. Charles Apthorp of Boston. John Nelson paid £8, due from himself to Robert Bronsdon's executor, but for what is not specified, unless it was on account of Thomas Stanbury. There is nothing to show that it was, however. Several other changes of ownership finally resulted in Nelson's title being vested in the " Long Island Company" and later, in the Government of the United States. 22 PART I. There is no evidence that Thomas Stanbury paid up his indebtedness to Robert Bronsdon. The careful accounts kept by Samuel Greenwood, during the seven years minority of Benjamin Bronsdon% give no reason to suppose that any payments were made. The tradition of ownership of a part of Long Island has always existed in that part of the Bronsdon family who have remained near Boston. At the time of Robert Bronsdon's death he held a lease of " near nine years " in a building formerly of Tho. Stanbury, (the Feather Store ?) Holland to Bronsdon. John Holland, anchorsmith, conveyed an estate afterward sold by Robert Bronsdon to John Turell. Turell to French. Turell conveys lands of inheritance with proviso that £50 be paid to Robert Bronsdon in 1694. One Ardell became surety for Thaddeus Mackarty on account of a debt due Robert Bronsdon from Mackarty of £200, dated Aug. 16, 1686. Mr. Mackarty subsequently paid in •' goods from his ship." (See acct. of Saml. Greenwood.) Robert Bronsdon consented to a sale of land at Rumney Marsh (Chel- sea) by John Bennett and Apphia his wife of Boston to Elisha Bennett of London, said Bronsdon holding a mortgage deed of said estate. (May 18, 1685.) Power of Attorxey. "Isaac Greenwood of Boston dos appoint his highly and well respected friend, Mr. Robert Bronsdon of Boston, nierch' to be his lawful attorney and legal representative." This was for the purpose of purchasing for Edward Bricknall the " pink " Mary 80 tons burthen. The witnesses to the bill of sale were Mr. Bronsdon and his son Joseph Bronsdon, the date Aug. 23, 1692. On this paper is endorsed " Robert Bronsdon aged about 52 years made oath that he was present and with his son Joseph set their hands to the within instrument." Bronsdon to Swimstead. " Xber " (Dec.) 16, 1674. Robert Bronsdon and Henry Kemble sold one quarter part of Barque "Mary & Elizabeth" 30 tuns burthen, to John Swimstead Jun"" for 8 pounds. Note. Henry Kemble was a brother of Madam Sarah Knight, who m. Apr. 19, 1666, Richard Knight. They were children of Thomas and Elizabeth (Terrice) Kemble and grand children of Mrs. Rebecca Lynde. These families are found constantly in connection with the Bronsdon, Hett, Willard and Greenwood families. 1697. Henry Jones, Distiller borrowed £120 of Robert Bronsdon and gave as security two negroes, " Betty and Anthony which had formerly been slaves of Masted- Samuel Phillips ; " he failed to pay and the negroes remained in possession of Mr. Bronsdon. BRONSDON FAMILY. 23 Middlesex Registry of Deeds at Cambridge, Mass. Evertoii to Bronsdoii. Mortgage Deed given by Funuell Evertou to Robert Broiisdon. " Endorsed upon an original! Deed of Sale from Hannah Hurry, Mehit- abell Turner, i\Iary ffrothingham & Dorothy Hett to Funnell Everton bear- ing date the eighth of July, 1692, and recorded in Lib. Ko. (?) page 132, 133, 134." Note. This " originall Deed " we did not discover even by the aid of one of the gentlemen in the office of the Registrar. Possibly a more thorough search would reveal it (the number of the volume is indistinctly written, it appears to be 20, but is not 20). ''Memorandum That I Funnel Everton of Charlestown, mariner, within named for and in consideration of the sum of twenty five pounds currt money of New England to me in hand by Robert Bronsdon of Boston in County of Suffolke in the Massachusetts Bay in New England, merchant. I have granted, bargained, sold and set over all that moiety or one half part of a dwelling house and one half part of all the land belonging to ye house late in ye possession of William Hett deceased and since of Dorothy Hett and, by the within written deed of Sale, bargained, sold and confirmed by the daughters and co-heirs of Anne Hett and Dorothy Hett unto me s'^ Funnell Everton the s*^ half part of the s'^ half house and land being butted and bounded as within mentioned and as situate, being and lying in Charlestown, For 28 pounds due Aug. 6, 1692. In presence of Edw^ard Page and William Milborne " Recorded in Book 14, page 412, Middlesex Reg. of Deeds. Note. This paper was not recorded until 1707. Funnell Everton died and his widow Mary received £3. Dorothy Hett was the widow of William Hett. This estate became the property of Mrs. Sarah Clark, youngest daughter of Robert Bronsdon, in the division of his estate. N. Bowditch (Gleaner) writes that the Bronsdon family owned much real estate but now (1860) appeared to be nearly extinct in Boston as there was but one Bronsdon in the City Directory for that year. From York Co., Maine, Deeds. (Book 3, Fol. 28.) John Paine to Robert Brimsdon to John White for & in consideration of £29 : 10 : payd by Robert Brimsdon of Boston, Mer- chant, & John Whitte of Boston, joyner, 800 acres of land at least lying near township of Wells & Cape Porpus, the wh'"^^ is a part of a great par- cell of land ab^ 4 or 6 miles square formerly sold by Sosowen the father & confirmed by Flewelly the sonn, both Sagamores, unto Peter Turbett, John Sanders and John Bush & by them sould unto Harlackendine Symonds, to have and to hold, &c. signed Oct. 25 1673 and 25'^ of Charles II In presence of John Payne, Dan'- Stone ack. Jan. 8 1673 before raee Sam'- Symonds Will"' Howard. Dep. Gov. (Book 3, Fol. 29.) John Payne of Boston, merchant, in consideration of a valewable sum of money and current pay of New England well & 24 PART I. truely payd by Dan' Stone of Boston, chyergeon & Eobert Brimsdon of same Boston, merchant ... a parcell of land viz* the moiety of 300 acres that is to say 150 acres thereof scitnate between the county of York- 'shyre in New England in towaiship of Wells ab* 4 miles distant from sayd town being upon the Edg of a great swamp . . . and also that parcell of marsh by the heath & also one half that marsh of the south west wdiich marsh is bounded by marked trees ... to have and to hold the sayd moiety of sayd 300 acres & the two marshes sometime appertaining unto Nicholas Coole {Cooly) signed Dec. 10, 1673, 25"^ of Charles II. In presence of Johx Paixe Anthony Checklt & Will*' Howard. (Book 4. Eol. 99) Robert Brimsdon of Boston, merchant, assigns to Capt. John Hill of 'Wells, Richard Sellys mortgage of lands in Saco to Henry Kemble Oct 31, 1693, 6th yr. of their Majestj'S reign. Witnessed by Thomas Johnston and James Convers. (On the 6th day of ^NEarcli 1696-7 John Hill of Saco made over the above assignment received from Robert Brimsdon of Boston to " my dear and loving brother Joseph Hill of Saco.") (Book 4, Fol. 140.) Kath' Fryer of Piscataway river in New England, merchant, in consideration of £480 payd by Eobert Bronsdon of Boston, merchant, mortgages Clhampernownes island in Kittery (except 80 acres conveyed to John Huicks) Signed Oct. 26"^ 1688 4*'' year of King James II. Witnessed by Jonathan Evans, Joseph Bronsdon & Thos. Kemble. (Book 4, Fol. 140.) Robert Bronsdon of Boston, merchant, assigns above mortgage to Rob*^ Elliot of Newcastle, Province of New Hampshire merchant, Aug. 28, 1698. (Book 4, Fol. 128.) Robert Bronsdon of Boston, merchant, for divers good causes & considerations gives power of attorney to ''my trusty friend M'' John Watson of Boston to take out of hands of, Nath'' Fryer sometime of County of Yorke in New England, gentleman, all such lands &c, arrears of rent &c. June 17 1698. 10 y-" of William III. (Book 8, Fol. %^^) Benjamin Bromsdon (son of Robert) witnessed Edw\ Rishworth's mortgage to Richard Hutchinson, land in York. July 8, 1707. (Book 8, Fol. 238.) Petition for survey of tract of land (first men- tioned in Book 3, Fol. 28) 800 acres part of the 4 or 6 miles parcell, by Will'" Walker, agent for M'' Sam' Greenwood, Edw. Martyn and Benjamin Bromsdon. Sept. 27 1717. BRONSDON FAMILY. • 25 (Book 10, Fol. 240.) Aug. 15, 1719, has a grant of land at Muscougus and on the Penobscot Eiver conditioned upon the settlement of two towns. The " party " of the second part pledge themselves to settle 80 families in each town in a Christian manner upon said tract. There were 23 signers to this paper among whom were Benjamin Bronsdon and his father in law Gilbert Bant and other prominent citizens of Boston and surrounding toAvns. Note. The last three abstracts do not, strictly speaking, belong in this place, but It seems best to include all from York Co., Me., together: there is doubtless more infor- mation to be derived from Maine deeds of a later date, but at present they are not acces- sible to us.) A COPY OF EOBERT BRONSDON'S WILL. [See Book 14, leaf 423, Suffolk Probate Eeg., Boston.] Eemaeks. The original Will and other papers are in a good state of preservation. The Will is placed between layers of gauze silk which is transparent. The seal is seem- ingly illegible, but we could not determine satisfactorily as we were not allowed to make a particular examination by those persons having the Will in charge, a precaution ren- dered necessary by the extreme fragility of old documents. Wills were much more com- monly made at that time than at the present day. Estates were small and household furnishings so meager that the most trifling articles of domestic use, as well as simple articles of apparel, were carefully bequeathed. Only the student of early Colonial history can appreciate the amount and extent of the Bronsdon possessions. Will. In the Xame of God, Amen. The sixth day of ]S"ovember Anno Domini one thousand seven liundred and one, I, Robert Bronsdon of Boston in the County of Suffolk in New England, merchant, although sick in body yet of good and perfect and sound memory, praise be to God therefor. Do make and ordain this my present Will and Testament containing herein my last Will in manner and forme foUoAving : That is to say: First, I commend my soul to God that gave it hopeing and believing thro' the death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ my Redeemer to receive Life everlasting in the merits of whose precious Blood alone I look and hope for salvation. And my body to the earth decently to be interred according to the dis- cretion of my executors hereinafter named. And I will and ordain that all my just debts as I shall owe at the time of my decease shall be truly paid as they happen to be due and that my funeral charges be defrayed and paid in convenient time after my decease. Item, I will and bequeath to my beloved wife, Hannah Bronsdon (besides the contract which I made with her at the time of our marriage, viszt. one hundred pounds as by said Contract or Bond more fully may appear) I give unto her Tenn pounds pr annum to be paid unto her my said wife out of the Incomes of my Estate so long as she shall continue my widow, and also the 26 PART I. use of a new dwelling house of mine which is now in building when the same shall be finished : or the use of my other tenement now in the occupa- tion of M''^ Pitts, which of the two my said Wife shall make choice of to be and to remain to her proper use during the time she shall remain my Widow. Also, I give unto my said Wife all the Goods and Household Stuff which she brought with her and which Avas hers before her marriage with me. Item, I will and bequeath unto my Son Benjamin Bronsdon, my present Mansion or Dwelling house wherein I now live with the garden and yard fenced in and thereunto belonging and also my wharffe on the other side of the way with the warehouse, shops, housings and accommodations standing and being on said wharfe, all standing, lying and being situate at the North- erly end of the Town of Boston afores*^ all of which premises, he, my said son Benjamin Bronsdon shall possess and enjoy so soon as he shall arrive at the age of one and twenty years and to his heirs and assignes from thence- forth forever (Always Reserving privilidge on and in said wharfe for the accommodation of other of my housing and Lands hereinafter bequeathed. Also I will and bequeath unto my Son one-halfe of all and singular my household stuff, viszt. Plate, Bedding, Brass, Pewter, Lumber, &c. which he shall receive when he comes of age. But if my said son should die before he arrives at the age of one and twenty jea.vs I do then will and bequeath one fourth or quarter part of his portion above mentioned unto my Sister Mary Bosume (Bosson) and my cousins Robert Bronsdon and Avis Gale equally to be divided among them and the longest liver of them, their heires and assignes, and the other three quarter parts equally to be divided among my daughters then surviving. Also I hereby will and appoint my said son a suitable maintainance out of my estate during his minority, to be paid and allowed by my executors here- inafter named. Item, I hereby will and bequeath unto my Son-in-Law Samuel Green- wood and Elizabeth his wife, my Daughter so much of my estate as will make up the Sum of Five Hundred pounds with what they have already received as by accompt in my Books will appear, which remaining part of the Five Hundred pounds as afores*^ shall be paid them out of what part of my estate they shall choose (excepting what I have hereinbefore bequeathed) or in money as it shall be made out of the Incomes or Sale of some part of my Estates. Item, I will and bequeath unto my Son-in-law, Jonathan Evans and Mary his W^ife my Daughter, such part of my real estate as shall with what they have already received make up the sum of Five Hundred pounds which shall be paid them in what part of my estate they or one of them shall choose (excepting what I have herinbefore bequeathed) and if my said Daughter makes choice of the house she lives in she shall have it at the price of Two Hundred and fifty pounds, if not, it shall be paid in money as it shall be made out of my estates. Item, I Avill and bequeath unto my Daughter Sarah Bronsdon such of my Estate as shall amount to the sum of Five Hundred pounds in money as she shall choose (excepting what I have hereinbefore bequeathed) and if my said Daughter Sarah Bronsdon shall make choice of my house, wharfe, &c. now in the tenure and occupation of William Shiprees she shall have the BRONSDON FAMILY. 27 same for three hundred pounds, if not she shall be paid in money as fast as it can be made out of my Estate. Item. I will and bequeath unto my Kinsman Robert Bronsdon in Lon- don my before mentioned house and land left to the use of my Wife Hannah Bronsdon which house with the land thereunto belonging, he the said Robert Bronsdon and the heirs lawfully by him begotten shall enjoy after the decease of my said wife forever and for want of such heirs, unto my Kins- woman Avis Gale her heirs and assignes forever. Item. I hereby will and bequeath unto my Grandchildren (viszt. the children of my Two Daughters Elizabeth Greenwood and Mary Evans to each of them the sum of Ten pounds in money to be paid them when they become of age or day of marriage, whichever shall first be. Item. I Avill and bequeath unto the North Church in Boston (whereof I am a member) the sum of Twelve pounds to be laid out in a piece of Plate for the use of the Church. Item. I will and bequeath unto the Reverend Mr. Increase Mather the sum of Eight pounds in money to be paid within twelve months after my decease. Item. I will and bequeath unto Reverend Mr. Cotton INIather, Pastor of the said Church, the sum of eight pounds in money to be paid within twelve months next after my decease. Item. I will and bequeath unto Mr. Atwood, Deacon of the said Church the sum of Four pounds in money. Item. My will is and I do hereby ordain and appoint That after all the afores*^ Legacies are paid the remaining part of my estate Debts, Goods, Chattels, wares and merchandise of all and every kind shall be equally divided among my children then living and shall remain to them their heirs and assignes forever. Item. I do hereby nominate, ordain and appoint my two sons Samuel Greenwood and Benjamin Bronsdon executors of this my last will and tes- tament hereby also ordaining and appointing my said son Samuel Green- wood severally and solely to act as Executor aforesaid during the minority of my son Benjamin, he said Greenwood keeping just accompts of all his doings relating to his executorship and when my son Benjamin comes of the age of twenty-one years he shall jointly act with his brother as executor afores*^. In Witness whereof I the said Robert Bronsdon have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first above written (signed) Robert Broxsdon (and a seal) Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Robert Bronsdon to be his last Will and Testament in presence of us Thomas Cawte Examined by Is-^ Addixgton AxTHONY Stoddard Reg'' Sarah Kxight. The Will was entered for probate on the 2d day of December, 1701, ten days after the death of the testator. Samuel GreeuAvood was confirmed as executor by Judge (Elisha) Cooke, who reserved the power to make a like commission 'for Benjamin Bronsdon when he should become of age. 28 PAET I. William Hobby and Edward Thomas, Merchants of Boston, and Joseph Grant, shipwright, were appointed to appraise the real and personal property. An Inventory of the " Goods and Estate of Robert Bronsdon " was submitted on July 19, 1702. The Inventory is of great interest and shows many things : viz. : The division of the house by apartments indicates somewdiat the plan of the rooms and their size and number ; while the enumeration of the fur- nishings enables us to picture their appearance. A perusal of the meagre inventories usual at that period will lead to the conclusion that the " brick mansion " of Eobert Bronsdon was for the times luxuriously appointed. The household goods brought him by the third wife were not included, being confirmed to her by the will. Vol. 15, page 52, of Probate Records of Suffolk County : " A true and perfect Inventory of the Goods and Estate of Eobert Bronsdon, late of Boston, Merch', deceased, taken and appraised at Boston this 19th day of July, 1702, in manner and forme following, vizt., In the Hall. (Sometimes called '' The Great Room.") 6 Turkey work chairs, best sort. 3£ 12 '' '•' " of a worse sort, 3£ 12s 1 old clock and case at 3£. 1 old arm chair and cushion 4s. 2 square tables at 20s. each. 1 carpet, 2S, 1 Looking Glass, 10s. 1 Glass Case, 3s. 1 Punch Bowie 1 Leather carpet 1 pair brass Dogs. 1 pair Iron Andirons. 2 small brass Dogs. 1 pair Iron Andirons 2 small pair of Tongs. 1 small fire shovel 2 images and 2 cups on the Mantle-tree 6 pictures. 2 small pictures. In the Dineing Roome. , 9 old Leather Chairs 1 cane couch. 3 rush chairs and 2 old cushions. 1 pair of bellows. 1 Iron standing Candlesticks 2 small tables 2 pair andirons. 1 Fire shovel. 1 small looking Glass with a black Frame. Some earthen ware on the mantle-tree. BRONSDON FAMILY. 29 In the Dineing Boom Closet. (Corresponds to our Kitchen. — ^c^.) 19 pewter dishes holding a quart 4 pewter dishes. 19 plates A parcel of old Flagons, candlesticks, Tankards. 4 old brass kettles. 2 pair of small brass candlesticks. 3 small skillets. 1 chafing dish 1 old warming pan and 3 skimmers. 2 pair Trammels. 2 Spits. 1 old Jack. 2 pair andirons, 2 pair tongs fireshovel. 1 iron chafing dish & 2 gridirons. 3 iron pots and 1 frying pan 1 Settle. 5 chairs 1 dripping pan. 1 box iron & 2 heaters. In the Cellar under the Dinei7ig Boom. Some old empty tubbs and barrels. In tlie Cellar under the Hall. 1 Copper and trevit. A parcel of tubs and barrels. In the Chamber over the Hall 12 cane chairs 4£ 16s. 3 rush chairs & 2 cushions. 2 small tables 1 chest of drawers 1 Looking Glass. 1 P^ of Brass Dogs. 1 white Coverlid fringe for a bed. 1 p'' of scales 2 ?"■ of Window curtains. 1 P'' of Callico Avhite Curtains and Vallains. 44- doz. old Diap. Napkins 6 Diap. Table Cloths. 26 of Holland Sheets. 5 p'' old course sheets. 1 Damaske Tablecloth. In the Closett belonging to Chamber. 3 Turkey Avork Chairs. 1 Table 1 Gallico Carpet. 1 Sword (old) 1 Picture. In the North Chamber. 3 old Turkey work chairs 2 p'' of Cotton & Avoolen Sheets. 1 pillowbeer. 1 bolster case 1 large olde Chest. 30 PART I. 1 p'' of Curtains, Yallains. 1 rugg & 1 bedstead. 2 feather beds. 1 bolster. 2 pillows. 1)1 the Chamber of the Dinelng Itoom. 6 Turkey work chairs 1 brass Dogs. Some old things on mantle tree. 1 square table 1 P-- Curt"« & Vall"» 1 small Looking Glass black Frame 1 bedstead. 1 bedstead in the closet. In the 2^^ Chamber over the Dining Boom. 1 old fashion Chest of Drawers. 2 old Chairs without bottoms. 1 p"' curtains & vallains & head cloth. 1 p"" of blew Curtains & vallains in the Chest of Drawers. 1 straw bed. 1 wicker chair 2 feather beds 2 pillows 2 bolsters. 1 white rugg & 1 blanket 2 old rugs & 1 hamoker. In the Chamber over the Kitchen. 1 old Saddle & Bridle. 1 old saddle without stirrups & a pillion. 1 screen. 1 old bedstead. 1 old gun & 1 old sword. 1 feather bed. 1 bolster. At Samuel Greenwoods. A negro man named Tom valued at 25£. 1 p'' white curtains without vallains. 1 chest. 1 small box. 2 desks. 1 straw basket. In the Warehouse Cellar. 2 hhds. of Molasses. 187 gallons 17£. 18s. od. 102 bbls. of Carolina Tarr 76£. 10s. 96 gallons of Sower Wine 1£. 12s. 3 Teirces of Ehum. 38£. 16s. I?i the Loiver Warehoxise over the Cellar. 16 half-hundred iron weights. 4£ 16s. 2 quarter-hundred weights. 2028 yds. of Bermuda Piatt. 1 Beam and Scales. 3 hhds of Mud Salt. A parcel of about 44 hhds of Salt. 9£ 16s. BRONSDON FAMILY. 31 1)1 the IVa rehouse Chamber. 21 handkerchiefs. 6 doz. mens gloves. 32:^ yds Damnified blew Linnen at 7d. pr yd. 1 Chineli Carpet for a Table. 1 p'" black course stockings. 3 doz of flowered ribbon. 2 old fashion course hatts. 6 old glasses 1 candle box. 1 compass. A parcell of Lanthorns & Tinware. A small Baile of English Goods. 138 Bermuda Broomes. 50 of Hops. 1 old Necklace 163 oz. of Plate value 121£. (silver ware). 11 Tuns of Loggwood Wearing apparel 20 £ The house he lived in with Land belonging, Brick Warehouse Wharf e & Buildings thereon, and all appur*^^*"^ belonging. Malthouse, old stable and Land all fenced. — — Old Shops next the Street — — Brewhouse, Copper, the land thereunto belonging The Brick house Mr. Evans dwels in The Two new houses fronting to the Lane The house IVP William Shipreeve lives in Parts of a house and land at Charlestown A piece of laud near the North Burying Ground f of the Brigantine " Sarah " ^ of Ship John & Anne ^ part of Ship Goodwill John Jenkins Command'' so far as completed Memorand'" of additional values : Besides the housing and Lands before Inventoried and Appraised, there belongs to the Estate of the s'^ deceased Kobert Bronsdon the several lands hereinafter mentioned, Yizt. A house and Land at Yorke bought of Joseph Penuel. One moiety of a Tract of Land of about 800 acres lying at Wells and Cape Porpus, purchased of John Payne. One moiety of another tract of Land of 150 acres lying also in y® Townships of Wells and purchased of the s'^ Payne. A parcel of Land in Salem and a house & Land in s*^ Salem. A parcel of Land in Almsbury. A term of near 9 years in a house in Boston formerly Tho : Stanburys. (Doubtless the "Old Feather Store."— ^rZ.) About 150 foot of the out-wharves in Boston. also £ 250 (> 250 u 300 ii 300 a 30 £ 66 £ 195 £ 45 £ 3252 32 PART I. Several Bills, Bonds and Mortgages for money which must be accounted for when received. Exhibited by me Sam^'- Greenwood Exec'' July 29, 1702. Exam*^ P*' Is-*^ Addixgtox. Reg^ & Exni' Still further additions to the Inventory were made as follows : " The Acco"* of Samuel Greenwood of Boston Executor of the Last Will and Testament of Robert Bronsdon late of Boston aforesaid, merch*, de- ceased, as well of and for such and so much of the goods and chatties of the s^^ Robert Bronsdon as come to his hands as of and for his payment and disbursm^ of the same as followeth : The s*^^ Accomptant chargeth himself with all and singular the goods & chatties of the s*^ Testator specified in an Inventory thereof made and Exhibited unto the Registry of the Judge of Probate and wills and granting letters of admin*'°" for the County of Suffolke amounting as by the said In- ventory appeareth the sum of £3252 : 1 : 5." " He chargeth himself with a second Inventory amounting to £72 : 16. Also several Gold Rings and Coined Gold £5 : 10. Cash found in Chest £294 : 7 : 0. Paper money £1 : 10. Item the s*^ Acco", chargeth himself with several Debts due to the Tes- tator at his Death and Since rec*^ by this Accomp* as followeth, vizt." Then follows ten pages of Samuel Greenwood's account, which we will not print in detail but, by extracts, derive much light upon the manner of life and. belongings of our ancestor and the people with whom he had busi- ness dealings. Robert Bronsdon appears to have heeded the command to "Owe no man." Apparently he owed nothing at his decease. The funeral and doctors' bills amounted to £236 : 19 : 3. (The Physician was Dr. Cutler.) Piece of Plate for the Korth Church £12 Samuel Greenwood kept an account of the expense incurred in the family, various articles for Benjamin Bronsdon mention of which will be found in the history of Benjamin Bronsdon", later. Both of the sons-in-law were indebted to the estate. The original statement of Samuel Greenwood's indebtedness is preserved at the Court House. "Mother Bronsdon'' receives an allowance for household expense at stated intervals. Various persons settle up their indebtedness, either in part or the whole, as : Joseph Blaney by Philip Bread £ 17 : 0:0 and again Joseph Blanev settled the mortgage in full by the payment of £76 :'0 : Thomas Bennet part payment of Bond £ 37 : 7:0 I BRONSDON FAMILY, 33 Lewis Booshere in full Cash of John Nelson Thaddeus Maccarty (goods from his ship) Timothy Thornton paid in full Samuel Beachen " " " Abigail Franklin, due by bond, Paul Grove Alcock paid Tarn send Skinner paid Xathaniel Henchman paid David Copp paid Christopher Breen Robert Sedgwick & Samuel Greenwood Joseph Bridgham paid William Owen paid Mr. Vial paid cash. James Webber paid John Clark paid part of bond Sarah Robes paid Andrew Belcher paid cash Elias Purrington paid Among those who paid rent are the following: Mehitable Hopkins, for rent, Richard Franklin Mary Shores Lydia Nowell . Hannah More Margaret Johnson M^ Shannon allowed him 16^d. for rates & repairs William INIoody for rent Mary Towers Received for dockage for vessels : John Miles, dockage, Lewis Hunt, " & use of scales, John Bonner '• John Pitts " by William Clark. John Hobby's Ship, dockage, John Bant " (I iCXi L, ii ii ii ii ii £ 22 : 13 : 8 ' 8 : 06 : • 11 : 06 : 03 : 8 ' 17 : 01 : ' 15 : 00 : ' 3 : 00 : U ' 14 : 12 : ' 50 : 00 : ' 1 : 00 : ' 2 : 08 : ' 12 : 05 : ' 23 : 00 : 9 ' 1 : 14 : £ 4 : 05 : '' 1 : 14 : 4 '' 4 : 15 : '' 17 : 14 : 6 £ 2 : 00 : 12 : 00 : 1 : 10 : 1 : 18 : : 08 : 6 1 : 00 : 7 : 03 : 8 £ 1 : 10 : 12 : £ 2 : 13 : 6 11 : 16 : 6 £ 6 : 00 : 16 :0 Expenses *' for the horse and cow." Maids Wages £6 : Cartage for sugar To mending Brew-house 4s. To Man working about Drains 4s. Paid M'" Jeffrey Gray for carrying on a lawsuit in Virginia. Paid for work to Samuel Griffin on the Charlestown house. Jan. 1, 1704. Paid for mending fence after fire. Journey to Cambridge Appraisers journey to Charlestown. 34 PART I. Paid for Lighterage Paid Philip Pendexter wages £10 : 00 : Paid Negro Jack for wheeling dirt Cash for bricks for house in Lane Paid Mrs. Knight for writing, 1 shilling Work of Henry Ingraham. The ships come home laden with rich cargoes from foreign lands, but their owner sleeps unheeding ; earthly gain or loss is nothing more to him. The cargoes are disposed of and the profits added to the sum total of the Bronsdon estate. "Ship Goodwill;" cargoe, "sugar loaves," Barr Iron, Bermuda Brooms, Ginger from Jamaica, £25 worth, " Onyons," Lumber, Salt, Fish. Ship Friendship's " Cargoe." Logwood, Molasses, Pum. Among those who buy are Edward Kichards John Hobby, William Alden Daniel Vose Logwood. Logwood 12 gal. Mollasses 89 ft. pine boards Wine & Molasses 111 foot of pine boards, 4s. £2 : 08 £10 03 : G " one hanchor & Jugg of wine," 5 £ li 7 5s. 6d. John Scollay, James Webber Samuel Greenwood " 11 q^^ of green wine for myself" William Owin one-half gal. wine Philip Pendexter, 6 sides of sole leather M"^ Vyall 60 gals, of rum. Samuel Greenwood, Molasses M'' Gills 15 gals, molasses Daniel More 12 gals, molasses Daniel Marshall 12 gallons Kum John Carlile, Molasses Benjamin Snelling, Molasses White 6 gallons molasses Nathaniel Henchman, Logwood 240 pounds Eice to Sundry persons. Bushell of Salt "10 Riggen" Received of William Marshall for ^ part of mare sold at Jamaica Cash recovered in suit against Leonard Buckmeister Paid Capt. Clark Storing fish for David Robertson For Negroes labor in clearing floor in State House Received of Benjamin Alford, ^ part " Ketch " Hampshire " 18 : 00 : 1 : 19 : 3 11 00 : 1 : 00 : 1 : 17 6 1 08 : 14 2 : 8 5 : 00 : 1 10 : 1 14 : 20 00 : 2 00 : 02: 3 08 : " 2 : 00 : 1 :04 3 00 1 11 07 I BEONSDON FAMILY. 35 The account of Samuel Greenwood with the Estate of his father-in- law, Eobert Bronsdon, occupies ten pages of Book 15, pages 367 to 377 inclu- sive, Suffolk Probate Kec. The amount footed up is £5204 : 16 : 5f but this amount does not include the full value of the estate, no appraisal having been made of sun- dry large tracts of land and estates in places other than Boston, particularly in York county, Maine. The following Quitclaim explains itself: Acquittance I Anna ^Bronsdon, Relict of Robert Bronsdon, deceased, for and in con- sideration of the sum of one hundred and fifty pounds which I acknowl- edge to have received from Samuel Greenwood, Executor of the last Will o^Jnl'^f™, °^ ^'"^'''^ Bronsdon renounce all claim on his estate this 23'^ Octo^ 1 . 02. (signed) Ax.xa Broxsdo.n. The Widow Bronsdon made choice of the new brick house, next door to the Bronsdon Mansion, where she lived the remainder of her life, or until 1730, when it reverted to the Gale family, heirs of Robert Bronsdon's' brother Benjamin Bronsdon of Wiltshire, Eng. ' William Clark, mariner, and later merchant and ship owner of Boston married Sarah Bronsdon a few months later, and the Clarks occupied the Bronsdon mansion with Benjamin as one of their family. Benjamin at the age of fourteen chose W^illiam Clark for his guardian. (See history of Ben- jamin.) In 1707, Benjamin attained his majority. Samuel Greenwood and Wilham Clark then resigned their charge of affairs, and the Clarks removed probably to the Cooley place which William Clark purchased in full of Benjamin Bronsdon at that time, they having previously been joint own- ers. The Division of the Bronsdon Estate, an interesting document (see Book 23, leaf 182, Suffolk Reg. of Deeds), is not given here in full, as it repeats the Will in great measure. Apparently there was no dissension among the heirs. The following extract from the Division relates to the homestead : 'MVhereas the s'» Robert Bronsdon in and by his last Will and Testa ment bearing date the 16th day of November after his just debts & funeral charges were defrayed and paid did will and bequeath unto the s^i Benjamin Bronsdon his Son his then present Mansion or Dwelling house wherein he then Lived with the garden and yard fenced in and thereunto belonging. And also his wharff on the other side of the way with the warehouse, shops, housings and accommodations standing and being on the s^ wharf all stand- ing, lying and being at the Northerly end of Boston aforesaid. All which premises he willed his Son Benjamin should possess and enjoy so soon as he should arrive at the age of 21 years, reserving always a privilege for the accommodation of his other housings and lands." 36 PAET I. Upon attaining his majority, Benjamin commenced to rebuild and make improvements and enlargements npon his wharf, but the decay of commerce did not warrant his outlay. We have no reason to suppose that he was not a man of business ability, for the times were far from as favorable to trade as they had been heretofore. We not only have traced the descendants of Kobert Bronsdon s son, but have also obtained many of those of each of his three daughters, and sufficient data will be given to enable any descendant to trace back to their Bronsdon ancestors. BRONSDON FAMILY. 37 The Greenwood Branch. (3) Elizabeth Bronsdon- (Robt.^). Elizabeth Bkoxsdon"'^ was b. at the North End of Boston, on Ship Street. She is supposed to have been a twin to the first Mary J^rons- don, b. Sept. 22, 1668, and who d. in infancy. (A second Mary, b. Aug. 27, 1670, became the wife of Capt. Evans.) Elizabeth Bronsdon^ ni. before 1687 Samuel Greenwood, shipwright, son of Nathaniel and Mary (Allen) Greenwood (m. at Weymouth, Jan. 4, 1655-6). Mr. Greenwood d. July 16, 1721, and his wife d. the 9th of the following December. They are bur. in the Greenwood Tomb at Copp's Hill. Children : (10) i. Elizabeth^ Greenwood, b. Aug. 18, 1687 ; d. young. (11) ii. Samuel^ Greenwood, Jr., b. Aug. 15, 1690. See below. (12) iii. 3Iari/ Greemvood, b. 1697; d. July 21, 1724; single. (13) iv. Elizaheth^ Greenwood, bapt. Apr. 24, 1698 ; m. first, Samuel White, by whom she had children ; and second, Capt. Benj. Edwards, whose first wife was Bathsheba Evans, cousin to Elizabeth. No children by the second marriage. (14) V. Nathaniel^ Greenwood, bapt. Oct. 15, 1699 ; d. young. (15) vi. Anna^ Greenwood, bapt. Apr. 11, 1700 ; d. young. (16) vii. Isaac^ Greenwood, bapt. May 11, 1702; m. Sarah, dau. of Dr. John Clark, and niece of " Councillor " William Clark. (17) viii. Miles^ Greenwood, b. Apr. 15, 1705 ; d. young. (18) ix. Nathaniel^ Greemcood, b. Mar. 27, 1707 ; d. young. (19) X. Joseph^ Greemvood, b. June 5, 1709 ; d. young. (20) xi. Joseph^ Greenwood, b. Aug. 18, 1711. Note. Some of the descendants of (11) Samuel and (16) Isaac follow the history of Samuel and Elizabeth Greenwood, but all the descendants of Mrs. Elizabeth (Bronsdon) Greenwood have not been collected. Mrs. Elizabeth (Broxsdox'^) Greenwood. Mr. and j\[rs. Greenwood joined the Second Church, Aug. 13, 1710. Samuel Greenwood possessed sterling qualities of character, which fixed the choice of Robert Bronsdon, who appointed him as executor of his estate during the seven years' minority of Benjamin Bronsdon. As executor, Mr. Greenwood received £80, and furthermore, Samuel and Eliza- beth acknowledged a share of the Bronsdon property, amounting to £440, and a house and lot on Whitebread Alley. 38 PART I. The Greenwood estate was on the '^ Broad Back Street," leading to Winnisimmet Ferry, and extended from the present Hanover Street to low water mark. His mansion house was standing until 1859, when it was absorbed by the widening of North Street. Samuel Greenwood was selectman, a member of a committee for fitting out the expedition to Port Eoyal in 1710, also one of the gentlemen chosen to oversee the building of a Grammar School in 1712 and for examining fortifications in 17 IS. Samuel and Elizabeth (Bronsdou^) Greenwood have had many illustri- ous descendants; one of them was John Danforth Greenwood, M. D., Pres- ident of Nelson College ; another, was the distinguished pastor of King's Chapel, Boston, the Rev. Francis W. P. Greenwood, of whom it is said that " he has hardly been surpassed in the consecration of vivid and lofty imag- inative power to the highest themes " ; also, the late Eev. Alfred Greenwood, and 'Mv. Edwin Greenwood who d. 1865. Samuel Greenwood's Will, 1721. [See Book 22, Suffolk Probate Eeg.] By it he gave to " Elizabeth his dearly beloved wife " the dwelling in which David Eustis " now lives," and one third part of all estates and goods, together Avith the use and improvement of their dwelling house Avhere they '< now live," and a part of the garden, but not the barn. The remaining part of the garden is allotted to the " brick house now building," or in lieu of real estate £450 in money, the wdiole amounting to about £1000, but "if she marry again she forfeits all." Samuel, the oldest son had a " double portion." Only daughter Elizabeth had £100 and one-fifth of the real estate, Isaac and Joseph, only remaining surviving children, had the same as Elizabeth. Doctors Increase and Cotton Mather each " Ten pounds." "To the poor people of the North End," £15 pounds. To his "only grandson " Samuel GreeuAvood "for to show my good will" £20 on coming of age. There is mentioned in the inventory of the estate " Four pictures, fig- lares of family, hanging in the hall of the Mansion House." (11) Samuel^ Greexavood (Elizabeth", Robt. Broxsdox^). He Avas b. Aug. 15, 1690, Avas a graduate of Harvard College in 1709. He Avas a merchant and shipwright in Boston, a member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Co. in 1722, and captain of a militia company. He m. first, Aug. 8, 1717, Mary Fitch ; and second, Mary Charnock. He d. Feb. 22, 1742, leaving wife Mary and son Samuel as executors of his will. BRONSDON FAMILY. 39 Children, three by the first, five by tlie second wife : (21) i. Man/ Greemoood, b. Oct. 31, 1718 ; d. young. (22) ii. Samuel* Greemoood, b. May 18, 1720; grad. of Harvard Coll. 1739 ; was twice m., but is not known to have descendants. He was private sec. to Gov. Belcher. (23) iii. Benjamin* Greenwood, b. May 30, 1722. (24) iv. John* Greenwood, b. Dec. 7, 1727; d. in England in 1792. He has descendants in old and New England, and other parts of America, also in New Zealand. (25) V. Mary* Greemvood, b. Apr. 1, 1731; d. in elderly spinsterhood in Marblehead. (26) vi. Elizaheth* Greemvood, b. Dec. 21, 1732. (27) vii. William* Greemvood, b. July 29, 1738 ; prob. d. young. (28) viii. Hannah* Greenwood, b. Oct. 5, 1740 (see " Symnies Memorial "). (16) IsAAc^ Greenwood (Elizabeth^, Eobt. Bkonsdon^). He was b. May 11, 1702; m. Jan. 1, 1729, Sarah, dau. of Dr. John Clark. Isaac was bapt. at the Old North Meeting House, May 17, 1702, graduated from Harvard Coll. in 1721, adm. to church membership at the " Old North," 1722. He went to England to study, and occasionally preached in London. He returned to Boston in 1726, and the next year was elected Hollis Professor of Mathematics at Harvard Coll., which position he held until 1738. He d. at Charleston, S. C, Oct. 12, 1745. Children, b. at Cambridge : (29) i. Isaac* Greemvood, Jr., b. May 9, 1730; m. Mary I'ans. See below. (30) ii. Sarah* Greenwood, b. Sept. 8, 1731 ; d. July 28, 1773 ; single. (31) iii. John* Greenwood, b. Mar. 29, 1733 ; lived at Falmouth, Me. (32) iv. Thales* Greenwood, b. Mar., 1735; d. 1766. (33) V. Elizabeth* Greenwood, b. Apr., 1737 ; m. Capt. William Holland of Falmouth, Me., and had one child, d. in infancv. She d. Sept. 10, 1783. (39) Isaac* Greenwood, Jr. (Isaac'', Elizabeth-, Kobt. Bronsdox^). He was b. May 9, 1730 ; d. at Dedham, Oct. 18, 1803 ; m. Mart I'ans. They have descendants through two .sons, viz. : (34) i. Isaac'' Greenwood, b. Oct. 13, 1758 ; d. in New York City, Oct. 21, 1829, and was father of ex-Judge «/o/i?i® Greenwood of Brook- lyn, N.Y., who d. Dec. 12, 1887, aged 90 yrs., and who had two sons : i. James' Greenwood of Brooklyn, N.Y., d. in 1900, aged nearly 88 years, ii. William'' Greenwood of New York City, now living, 1901, unmarried. 40 PART I. (35) ii. Johii^ Greenwood, h. May 17, 1760; d. in New York City, Nov. 16, 1819. He had one son : (36) i. Isaac John^ Greenwood, who d. in New York City, May 14, 1865, aged 70 yrs. His widow d. in 1899, at an advanced age. Children : (37) i. Isaac Jolm'' Greenwood, Jr., b. Nov. 15, 1833 ; grad. Cohimbia ColL, 1853; ra. Oct. 23, 1866, Mary Agnes Rndd. Has had four chiklren. Res. in New York City. He is an authority on genealogical matters, and has kindly helped us with Greenwood family records. (38) ii. Langdon' Greenwood, b. Aug. 9, 1840 ; grad. at Columbia Coll. ; m. first, Helen A. Snyder ; m. second, Anna Hand, and d. Jan., 1900, leaving descendants. Memoranda. Dec. 24, 1794, Miss Elizabeth Bronsdon conveyed a brick dwelling and lot of land bounded by estates of Dr. Lathrop and the Hon. Perez Morton and widow Elizabeth Nickerson to Isaac Greenwood, dentist. The consid- eration was £1000. From the Boston News Letter, July 27, 1727. A full account of scientific experiments made b}^ Professor Greenwood to determine the cause and manner of death of two men who died in the old reservoir upon descending into it near Union Street. Erom N. E. Weekly Journal, Feb. 13, 1728. " Mr. Isaac Greenwood was inaugurated at the College Hall in Cam- bridge into the office of the Professor of the IMathematicks and Natural and Experimental Philosophy lately founded by that great and living Bene- factor to that Society Mr. Thomas Hollis of London, merchant. And Ave hear ^Mr. Greenwood gave his first publick lecture at the College Hall on "Wednesday last, Feb. 7." From the Same. Advertisement. '< Arithmetick — Vulgar and Decimal- — ^ by Isaac Greenwood, X. M. To be sold by Thomas Hancock at the Bible and Three Crowns, Ann Street. Just published." Langdon-Greenwood. June 23, 1796, William Pitt Greenwood to Mary Langdon. Greenwood-Barrett. Sept. 11, 1832, Mary Susan Greenwood to Rev. Saml. Barrett, D.D., a noted Unitarian minister. Mrs. Barrett was a sister of Rev. Francis William Pitt Greenwood. She d. Mar. 15, 1874, aged dQ yrs., leaving descendants. (See Hist, of Wilton, N. H.) BRONSDON FAMILY. 41 The Evans Branch (includes Edwakds). (4) Mary Bronsdon- (Robt.^) m. Capt. Jonathan Evans. Mary Bronsdon^, dau. of (1) Robert Bronsdon^, by his wife Bathsheba (Richards), was b. in Boston, at the North End, Aug. 27, 1670. Her mar- riage is recorded by Samh Sewall in his famous Diary as having taken place ''Ocf ye 4'^ 1688," the officiating minister having been Rev. Samuel Wil- lard. Capt. Jonathan Evans died abroad about 1728. ]\Iary d. Sept. 5, 1737. She received the sum of £500, and a brick house on Fish Street, from her father's estate. After the husband's death she mortgaged half her double " Brick house at the North End, fronting Fish Street," to Samuel White (see No. 13) and John Richards, a relative of her mother. She had already sold the other half to John Hooten, Feb. 24, 1728. In 1734, the mortgage on the estate was discharged, both White and Richards having died, and their widows received the money. The widow White, who was Elizabeth Greenwood before marriage and a niece of Mrs. Evans, afterward married Capt. Benjamin Edwards as his third wife. Capt. Evans was many years away from home, and his wife transacted business on a " power of attorney," given by him to his '' beloved wife." (See Essex Co. Reg. of Deeds.) We have the names of seven children of Jonathan and Mary (Bronsdon) Evans, but we have not traced any of their descendants, except the family of Bathsheba, the sixth child, and it is uncertain if there are any, for the reason that in the release of the heirs to the Evans estate only the name of grandson Alexander Edwards, of the later generation, appears. How- ever, this is not certain proof that other heirs did not exist. Children, bapt. at the North Meeting House : (39) i. Jonathan^ Evans, b. July 7, 1689; d. in infancy. (40) ii. 31ar}f Evans, b. Dec. 4, 1692 ; no further record. (41) iii. Jonathan^ Evans, b. Apr. 6, 1694 ; bapt. next day ; no further record. (42) iv. Elizabeth^ Evans, b. Oct. 20, 1696 ; bapt. when 4 d. old ; no fur- ther record. (43) V. Robert^ Evans, h. June 14, 1699 : bapt. June 18; supposed to be the one Avho m. June 16, 1726, Elizabeth AVallis ; no further record. (44) vi. Bathsheba^ Evans, b. March, bapt. May, 1701 ; m. May 14, 1730, Capt. Benjamin Edwards, and d. June 26, 1728, leaving seven children. See below. (45) vii. Joseph^ Evans, b. Aug. 25, 1709 ; no further record. 42 PART I. (44) Bathsheba^ Evans (Mary-, Robt. Bronsdon^). Bathsheba^ Evans was b. in 1701, and m. Capt. Benjamin Edwards of Boston, whose famil}' Bible and other heirlooms are preserved in posses- sion of j\Ir. Rollin A. Edwards, a descendant. The Edwards residence is now standing on Salem Street, being the next house south of Christ Church. Mrs. Evans, daughter of Robert Bronsdon, probably died in this house with her daughter Bathsheba, and was interred in the Edwards tomb on Copp's Hilh This tomb was built about the same time as the Clark, Green- wood and Benjamin Bronsdon tombs, 1717 or 1718. It is No. 5 in the cemetery records. The entries in the old Edwards Bible are very quaint, and have been copied for us ; we reproduce them here as of interest to the descendants of Mrs. jMary Evans. The date of Bible, 1707. The explanatory numbers are our own. Capt. Benjamin Edwards was a prominent citizen of Boston, one of the founders of the New Brick Church. Was first a sea captain, later a merchant. His first home after marriage was an estate adjoining the Bronsdon's, from which he removed to Green Lane (Salem Street) in later years. This Bible gives the following records : " Benj. Edwards (1st) Born Dec. 15, 1(385. Departed this life Aug. 26th day 1751 in the 66 year of his age and was buried in his tomb in the North Burying Place in Boston." .... ''Benj. Edwards (1st) was mar*^ to Bathsheba Evans datter of Capt. Jonath" and Mary Evans by Rev^^ and M"" Will™ Wellstead on the 14th of May 1730, his second wife." ChUdren of Benjamin and Bethsheba Edwards : (46) i. '' Benjam in* Edivards (2nd) was born on Munday morning being the 20th day of February 1731 and Baptized by the Rev^ M'' Will'" Wellstead." (47) ii. " Bobert* Edwards was born on Satterday the 18th day of Novem"" 1732 & Baptized by the above Rev-i. M-". Wellstead." Robert Edwards died Feb. 14th 1770 Buried Munday the 19th in the tumbe. (48) iii. "Alexander* Edwards was born Tuseday 18th of December 1733." (49) iv. " John* Edwards was born on Satterday morning being the 4*^^ day of January 1734-5 and baptized as afore said." (50) V. " Bathsheba* Edwards was Born Munday morning about 4 oclock being the 23'''i day of February 1736 "and Baptized y" Sabbath morning following by y^ Rev^^ M"" Wellstead Paster of y« North Brick Meetinghouse." (51) vi. " DoUing* Edwards was b. May 9th 1737 on Munday aboute seaven oclock in y« afternoon and was baptized y'^ Sabbath following being y" 15th day of y^ month by y^' RevATiisHEBA* Ebwakds (Bathsheba^, Mary^, Robt. Bronsdon^). She was b. Feb. 23, 1736, and married first, Carter, d. 1750; second, Benjamin Gray. Two cliildren by Mr. Carter ; one m. Frothingham, the other, Stearns, Children by Mr. Gray were : (64) i. Hannah^ Oray, twice m., Mr. Clowes and Mr. Duck. (65) ii. Sarah^ Gray, m. Josepli Child. (66) iii. Benjamin^ Gray, m. Sarah Edmunds ; bur. May 5, 1764. (67) iv. Bathsheba^ Gray, m. Storer. (68) V. Betsey^ Gray, m. Oct. 15, 1797, Wm. Treadwell of Ipswich. (69) vi. Folly^ Gray, m. first, Burton ; second, Hay den. Benjamin and Sarah (Edmunds) Gray had a dau., Eliza TreadwelP Gray, w^ho m. Benj. Gray® Child, son of Sarah^ (Gray) and Joseph Child. Among the Gray-Child descendants of the present day are Miss Elizabeth'' Child of St. Louis, jNIr. Richard Devens'' Child of Dorchester, Mrs. Sher- burne, Mr. Wm.' Child ; Hon. Francis' Child and Prof. Francis'' J. Child of Harvard Univ., both of whom are now deceased, also belonged to this family. One of the descendants of Mrs. Bathsheba Gray was named Charlotte Gray; she m. first, Welsh, and second, Nicholas Arthur; their son, Nicholas Arthur of New Orleans, m. his cousin. (51) Dolling^ Edwards (Bathsheba^, Mary'^, Robt. Bronsdon^). He■^vas b. May 9, 1737; m. Rebecca , and d. 1773. Children : (70) i. Sally^ Edivards, m. Paul Revere, Jr., goldsmith. (71) ii. Benjamirv' Edwards, cooper. (72) iii. Alexander^ Edirards, cabinet-maker. (73) iv. Rebecca^ Edtcards, m. Josiah Carter, blacksmith. (74) V. John^ Edwards, b. Aug. 14, 1759 ; d. in infancy. (5G) Alexander^ Edwards (Bexj^, Bathsheba^, Mary-, Robt. Bronsdon^). He was b. July 26, 1783; died Aug. 23, 1813; m. Apr. 1, 1811, at Framingham, Anna Haven, who was b. May 5, 1786 ; d. Apr. 3, 1814. He BEONSDON FAMILY. 47 had a son Alexander^ Edwards, who was b. Oct. 18, 1813; d. Apr. 28, 1895 ; m. Mary B. Batchelor, Feb. 23, 1848, by Rev. B. A. Edwards. She was b. Sept. 17, 1821, and d. Jan. 1, 1899. Their Children: ( ) i. Rollin Alexander'^ Edivards, b. May 10, 1850 ; m. Kov. 19, 1877, Almeda Weeks, and have : William Benjamin^ Edwards, b. Oct. 13, 1878. Henrietta W.^ Edivards, b. Apr. 3, 1882. ( ) ii. William Bejijamin'^ Edwards, b. Nov. 15, 1851 ; m. Edith Stowell. ( ) iii. Anne Haven'' Edwards, b. Jan. 28, 1855. ( ) iv. Charles' Edivards, b. Feb. 28, 1857; m. Lucy A. Anderson, Sept 30, 1897. ' ^ Note. The Edwards Bible, containing the records of all the 18th century Edwardses descended from Robert Bronsdon, is in possession of Rollin A. Edwards who resides in Everett, Mass. He has also a portrait of the father of Benjamin Edwards, first. The robe, wig and other appointments indicate professional rank. Mr Edwards has also the coat of arms brought by the original Edwards emigrant. It is that of the ancient Kings of Wales and the motto is in gaelic. The above mentioned descendants are but a small portion of the extensive Edwards records in possession of members of the family. 48 PART I. The Clark Branch. (7) Sarah Bronsdon^ (Robt.^). (Mrs. William Clark.) Sarah Bkoxsdox- was b. in Boston 1682, bapt. July 5, 1685, and was dau. of (1) Robert and Rebeckah Bronsdon; m. by J\lr. Increase Mather, May 14,1702, William Clark, who was b. July, 1670, and was son of' Dr John and Martha (Whittingham) Clark, and grandson of Dr. John and Martha (Saltonstall) Clark. This Clark family originally belonged in Newburyport. Mr. Clark d. July, 1742, and Mrs. Clark d. 1762. They always resided in Boston, and are buried at Copp's Hill Ground. Children, recorded on books of the Second Church of Boston : (75) i. Sarah^ Clark, bapt. Feb. 21, 1703 ; d. young. (76) ii. William'' Clark, bapt. July 23, 1704; d. young. (77) iii. William' Clark, bapt. Nov. 4, 1705 ; d. young. (78) iv. John' Clark, bapt. Feb. 2, 1707; d. young. (79) V Sarah' Clark, bapt. July 18, 1708 ; m. C. Kilby. See below. (80) vi. Iteheckah' Clark, bapt. Apr. 30, 1710; m. S. Wmslow. See below. (81) vii. Martha' Clark, bapt. May 13, 1711 ; m. T. Greenough. See below. (82) viii. John' Clark, bapt. Mar. 8, 1713 ; d. young. (83) ix. EUy.nheth' Clark, bapt. Dec. 26, 1714 ; d. young. (84) X. Robert' Clark, bapt. Apr. 22, 1716 ; ni. Mrs. Mary Reed. See below. (85) xi. Elizabeth' Clark, bapt. Sept. 15, 1717 ; d. young. (86) xii. Beyijamin' Clark, bapt. Aug. 10, 1718; m. Susanna Humble. See below. (87) xiii. Man/ Clark, bapt. Nov. 1, 1719 ; d. young. (88) xiv. Dorothy' Clark, bapt. Jan. 1, 1721 ; d. young. (89) XV. liichard' Clark, bapt. July 15, 1722 ; d. young. Sarah Bronsdon^ married William Clark, a few months after the death of her father. Her own mother was dead, but she had a youthful step- mother. For the few months before Sarah's marriage, the family, consist- ing of the widow Bronsdon, Sarah^ and Benjamin Bronsdon 2, aged about 14 years, remained unchanged. Then the widow removed to her dower house near by, and William and Sarah Clark stayed in the Bronsdon man- sion. Benjamin chose Mr. Clark as his guardian, and he became associated with Samuel Greenwood (another brother-in-law of Benjamin), the executor of Robert Bronsdon's will in the mauagement of the Bronsdon property. William Clark had, at some period, been a " mariner," but was now become a merchant, and prospered exceedingly as time passed. He was BllONSDON FAMILY. 49 constable in 1700, overseer of the poor in 1704, tithingman in 1713-15-18, one of the ''Committee to Consult for the Common Good" in 1719, select- man in 1719-1723, Representative to the General Court in 1719, 1722, 1724, 172"). He was third sergeant of the Ancient and Honourable Artillery- Co., in 1703 and 170G. (See History of A. & H. A. Co., p. 8.) He was very highly descended. (See writings of Cotton INIather, who married his sister Elizabeth Clark.) The Clarks were members of the Second Cluireli, and Avore among the seceders in 1721, Avlien Mr. Clark and Mr. Frizzell had first choice of seats in the new brick meeting house, erected by the seceders, for their " valuable benefactions," they having served on the building committee, and contrib- uted liberally in money. (See Robbins' History of the Second Church.) Mr. and Mrs. Clark lived in the Bronsdon house until 1708, when Ben- jamin married. An adjoining estate then became the home of the Clarks. This was a house of which Benjamin Bronsdon and his sister Sarah were the owners, the old Cooley place which had been part of the fortune which Mrs. Rebeckah Cooley had brought to Robert Bronsdon. William Clark and Benjamin Bronsdon had, as ''joint landlords," received £25 rent per annum from Mr. William Shipreeve, " tallow chandler." A warehouse, wharf privilege, and other appurtenances were attached to this estate, which became the sole property of the Clarks by deed of conveyance of Benjamin Bronsdon to 'William Clark of " half an estate o'n the Fore street from the Drawbridge to Winnisimmet Ferry," Mch. 31, 1708. (See Book 23, leaf 213, Suffolk Deeds.) For the share of Sarah Clark in her father's estate, see the Will of Robert Bronsdon ; (also, Suffolk Registry of Deeds for the Division of the Bronsdon Estate, in Book 23, leaf 182.) In addition to the " Cooley " house, Sarah inherited the old " Hett estate " in Charlestown. In the year 1710 William Clark purchased land on the corner of Gar- den Court Street and North Square, of Anne Hobby, widow, one of the daughters of John Winsley and Elizabeth, his wife, both deceased, and her sisters, IMrs. Isaac Winslow of Marshfield, Hopestill Winsley and Mrs. Mercy Bridgham " all that messuage or tenement near the North jVIeeting House bounded by Capt. Thomas Hutchinson on the Northeast 138 feet, 140 feet on Bell Alley, 52 feet 2 inches on Garden Court and 52 feet 6 inches on Middle Street." The sum paid for the land was £726. The witnesses to the deed were Joseph Marion, Nathaniel Otis, Henry Bridg- ham and Anne Thomas, and the deed was recorded in 1710. jVIr. Clark borrowed money of the Province, for Avhich he mortgaged his newly acquired property, but he had repaid it, in full, by the year 1719. In the Book of Possessions, Town of Boston, p. 126, is this note : " K. 17. Upon this lot William Clark, a prominent merchant of the Provincial period, lived. He built a house which became famous. It stood 4 50 PART I. fronting the square (Clark's) very nearly where Prince Street " (then Bell Alley) '^' comes into it on the westerly corner." This mansion is often called the '•' Frankland house," because Sir Charles Henry Frankland bought it of the heirs of William Clark, and there was a romantic interest attached to his marriage, which has been cele- brated in song and story. His wife was Agnes Surriage of Marblehead. The Clarks built, owned and occupied their house for very nearly half a century. Sir " Harry " Frankland, as he is often called, lived there for per- haps a year while he was Collector of the Port of Boston. He then returned to Lisbon, Spain, as Consul-General. He retained ownership of the estate, however, and it became Lady Frankland's at his death. Tradition says that she watched the progress of the battle of Bunker Hill from an upper window of the house while waiting to set sail for England. So much is in print concerning the glories of the Clark (Frankland) House that it seems almost superfluous to copy it here. A few details will not be amiss, possibly, and we will refer our readers to Mr. Tuttle's account of the house in his articles in the N. E. Historical-Genealogical Mag., and " Some Old New England Families," by Miss E. E. Titcomb. The Clap.k Mansion. On Garden Court Street, formerly Frizzeirs Lane, stood two of the most striking houses in the town; one, the residence of Councillor William Clark, and the other, the home of Governor Hutchinson. Pictures of each house have been preserved. The Clark House was of brick, and three stories high, without the roof, which really amounted to a fourth story, and was adorned by a row of dormer windows. Above this was a balustrade, enclosing that portion of the roof which was flat, forming a delightful post of observation in fine weather. In the rear of the house was a ''rose garden " and trees. North Square, or Clark square, as it came to be called, in honor of William Clark, was a pleasant locality, where many of the best residences were clustered. At the head of the Square stood the old North Meeting House. The exterior of the mansion, stately though it was, gave little hint of its magnificent interior. On entering at the front door a hall of grand dimensions was perceived, spanned midway by a graceful arch. From either side, doors opened into magnificent apartments known as the parlors.' In particular was one of these rooms a subject of wondering laudation, for its walls were decorated with a series of medallions or panels on which were paintings of romantic landscapes and country seats identified with family history ; on the twelfth panel was a picture of the house itself and, underneath, the monogram of the owner ; paintings of coats of arms of the different branches of ancestry were also portrayed in rich colors picked out with touches of gold, while between the panels were graceful pillars reaching from floor to ceiling. BRONSDON FAMILY. 51 The floor of another parlor was inlaid with over three hundred varieties of wood, the pattern representing the Clark coat of arms. The "mantel-trees" were of richly wronght Italian marble and the hearths of decorated porcelain tiles. The house is represented as having twenty-six rooms, but in truth it contained only thirteen as mentioned in the inventory of the estate after William Clark's death. The staircase was one of the most noted features of this beautiful mansion — perhaps because it is related that Sir Harry Frankland rode his pony up and down the easy ascent. This staircase, which was of dimensions in keeping with the grandeur of ^ the hall, was lighted by arched windows and adorned with a series of thirty-two paintings, one of which was an impressive full-length portrait of William Clark himself, in brave attire. See below. The furnishings of the mansion were worthy of it and it is recorded that $30,000 was expended in beautifying the rooms at the time of the marriage of the oldest daughter to Christopher Kilby, Esq. A few relics of the Clark House have been preserved. Two of the panels from the wonder- ful East Parlor are in the Maine Historical Society Library in Portland, Maine, two are in Brookline, Mass., at the home of one of Sarah (Brons- don) Clark's descendants, and those representing the mansion and the coat of arms are in Newton Centre in the Gay family. The panels in the Maine Historical Society were given by Kev. Daniel Austin of Kittery, and are numbered 1 and 2. They are 5 ft. 9 in. in height, but one is 3 ft. 1 in. wide and the other 2 ft. 8 in. This measurement'' in- cludes a framework about 4 in. wide. One represents a castle set in a land- scape, the other has a landscape and house in the lower half and a coat of arms in the upper half, a' shield with a bar on which are three lions rampant. XoTE. Mrs. Alice (Fairfield) Moody of Portland kindly sent this description, also tlie abstracts of deeds, etc., from York County records, and has our thanks therefor. Even as early as 1711 William Clark knew the value of advertising in the newspapers. Many of them, both in Boston and other places, contain his business notices. Among others, we note these : May 11, 1711. " To Be Sold by Mr. William Clark, merchant of North End, 4 likely negroes, 1 man, 1 woman and 2 boys." Also "To Be Sold by M'" William Clark of Boston, merchant, at his store- house near the Swing-Bridge the best Barbados Bum for ready money at Five Shillings the Gallon." (iV. E. Weekly Journal, Jan. 15, 1728.) In 1726 Mr. Christopher Kilby became his partner in business, and at about the same time married Sarah Clark, the eldest living daughter 62 PART I. The troubles between England and France resulted in disaster to commerce, affectin- the trade of the colonies with foreign countries. Mr. Clark lost heavily." The records mention "40 sail of vessels" belonging to him as having fallen into the enemy's hands. His troubles preyed upon his mind to such an extent as to affect his health and hasten his demise. In the Boston Weekbi Newsletter, July, 1742, it was announced that, " Last Saturday died here the Honourable William Clark Esq. who has been one of the most considerable Merchants of this Town and has formerly served as a Kepresentative of the Town in the Gen'l Court and was for some years one of the members of His Majesty's Council." He was about 72 years old. He had not made a will, and we infer from the number of doctors and nurses employed that his illness was very severe. His widow was appointed administratrix. Eour of the children survived their father. Robert, who with his family lived in Lunenburgh, Massachu- setts, Eebeckah Winslow, wife of Samuel Win slow, Benjamin Clark, who succeeded to his father's business and who had also been a partner of Mr. Kilby, and Martha, the wife of Deacon Thomas Greenough. Mr. Greenough and his mother-in-law, Clark, secured the shares of the other heirs in the mansion house and finally Madam Clark sold her part therein to the Greenoughs. We note a few items of interest in the Inventory of William Clark's estate, as follows : Kegro woman Grace value £105 : 00 : 00 4 muskets & a pistol 80 : 17 : 10 2 silver hilted swords • 10 : 00 : Sundry Books & Catalogue 105 : 00 : large china bowl 3 : 00 : ,32 pictures in stairway 30 : 00 : In the entry, 11 leathern buckets 16:00: Other items pertained to Mr. Clark's illness and his funeral, as. Nurses Williams & Cullock £ 4 : 10 : Dr. Bulfinch's bill 4:10: Dr. Hill's bill 25 : 12 : Limes in Mr. Clark's sickness 1:4:0 Partial expense of funeral 80 : 17 : 10 pi ]\rullin for the Pall 4 : 15 : P'l Pierce for opening Tomb 3 : 10 : Edward Winslow for rings 49 : 4 : Ping for Pev. M'' Elliott in lieu of one lost. 3 : 00 : P'l for 3 Hatts gave the Gent" that appraised the estate. 12 : 00 : Board of book-keeper John Muir 83 : 00 : BIIONSDON FAMILY. 53 In the enumeration, besides the Clark mansion, was a lionse and land on Cold Lane (Portland Street) and several other parcels of real estate in- cluding a rope Avalk in that part of the toAvn then known as New Boston, also large estates in Worcester County (Lunenburgh). Some names of vessels were given : Ship " Sarah," Ship "William & Sarah,-' Ship "Francis," Sloop "Dolphin," Sloop "Censor," and Brigantine " Cato." A guardian Avas appointed for the motherless Kilby grandchildren, Thomas Hancock (the uncle of John). The Clark Tomb. The Clark Tomb is in Copp's Hill Burying Ground at the iSTorth End, near Christ Church, and within hearing distance of the melodious chime bells in the tower, plaintive reminders of those who caused them to peal forth their magical sounds long ago. In the present decadence of the North End the beautiful music of the chime bells is the only message from a far different past, when stately gentlemen and their proud dames of the colonial era brightened the narrow ways. About the year 1708 a new range of tombs was constructed along Hull Street, and several families became proprietors. Such ones were the Brons- dons. Greenwoods, Edwards, Greenoughs, Bants, Clarks and others. There is a tradition respecting the Clark Tomb which is not founded upon fact. It is to the effect that the bodies were removed and the tomb usurped by a sexton, Winslow by name. This legend arose from the fact that Rebeckah Winslow had her husband's name " Samuel Winslow " chiselled in modest letters at the bottom of the grave-stone erected to her father's memory. Samuel Winslow outlived Mr. Clark three years and was killed in front of Louisberg. His widow Rebecca inherited a right in the tomb with the other heirs of her father, William Clark. The stone in question is a masterpiece of the sculptor's art. It was made by a Mr. Codner ; its cost was £40, or nearly $200. It is in excellent condition at the present time. The Clark coat of arius is remarkably and delicately carved upon the stone. Chain mail, upon which is a breast plate, surmounted by a helmet, forms part of the design. Above this is a swan, crowned and having a chain about its neck and thence over its back. Orna- mental scrolls surround this device, and on either side are floriated fruit clusters, including apples, pears, plums, cherries, peaches and grapes, mingled with corn and wheat, the outlines being wonderfully preserved, and the whole of which forms a design of much beauty. The inscription reads as follows : 64 PART 1. ^^ Here lyes the Mortal pitrt of WILLIAM CLARK, Esq. An 'eminent mcrrhant of this Town and an Honorable Councillor For the Province ]\-ho distinfjuished himself as a faithful and affectionate Friend, a Fair and Generous Trader. Loyal to his Prince, Yet ahoays zealous for the Freedom of his Country. A Despiser of Sorry Persons and little actions, an enemy of Priest craft and Enthusiasm, A Lover of Good Men of various Denominations and a Reverent Worshipper of the Deity.'' Deacon Greenough concluded the business of the CLark Estate, which had remained unfinished during the widow's life time. Having become the owner of the Clark Mansion, in 1756, he sold it to Sir Charles Henry Fraukland for £1200. It became the property of the Surriage family, and was sold to Kowland Ellis for $8000 in 1811. He resided there until the demolition of the building in 1832. When Bell Alley (extension of Prince Street) was widened in that year, " this proud mansion long since deserted by the family, whose importance it was meant to perpetuate, whose vanished splendors are an object of interest and com- memoration by artist, historian, and novelist alike, was ruthlessly swept away." Sarah Clark was the last survivor of Robert Bronsdon's children. Mrs. Greenwood died in 1721, Mrs. Evans in 1737, and Mr. Benjamin Bronsdon in 1757, and all are interred in tombs on the Hull Street side of Copp's Hill Burying Ground. Madam Clark left the mansion probably on the second marriage of Dea. Greenough, and as her daughter, Mrs. Greenough, died in 1750, we do not know where Madam Clark thereafter resided, but it is thought in Boston. Portrait of Hon. William Clark. An explanation regarding the portrait, an account of which is taken from the Mass. Hist. Soc. Coll. in the form of letters (given below), is as follows : One of the Dr. John Clarks (there were seven of them in succes- sion, two of whom were respectively father and brother to Hon. William Clark) had a daughter Elizabeth Clark, born 1733, and she married Rev. Jonathan Mayhew. Mr. and ]\Irs. Mayhew were the parents of Mrs. Peter ERONSDON FAMILY. 55 Waimvriglit of Boston. One of the portraits, whose destruction is related, represented Mrs. Mayhew, ''wife of Dr. Mayhew " and ''mother of Mr. Wainwright." It was a beautiful portrait ; the hidy lield a basket of roses, which she Avas apparently to offer to the spectator. This explanation does not clearly state whether there were two Peter Wainwrights, father and son, or whether the writer confused the parentage of Uv. and JMrs. Wain- w^right. A letter published in Vol. 17 of the Mass. Hist. Soc. Coll., on pages 233-4, throws some light on the fate of this portrait, and perhaps accounts for others wdiicli are missing. It was written by Miss E. S. Quincy, and is as follow^s : Quincy, Jan. 20, 1879. Dr. S. A. Greex : — Bear Sir, — I enclose an account of Mr. William Clark, a prominent merchant in the early days of Boston. It was sent to me by the heirs of the late Peter Wainwright, Esq., to send to Mr. A. T. Perkins who had inquired concerning the portraits formerly in Mr. Wain- wright's possession, which were unhappily burned in 1872 — not in the great fire but in one which occurred the night afterward. All these portraits, Smiberts, Copleys and one by Emmons, were under the care of an artist in Washington St. who had varnished and put them in order and who had earnestly requested Mr. Wainwright to send for them and relieve him of the responsibility. But this was not done and the fire came and destroyed them. Mr. Wainwright Avas in great distress at their loss and, I believe, never recovered from the grief his neglect of the request of the artist gave him. His children had taken so little interest in these pictures that they could not give Mr. Perkins or myself a list of the persons represented in eight or nine portraits, but they sent me this account of Mr. Clark whose portrait by Emmons hung in the entry of the house. It was painted on a very large canvas, with a ship in the distance seen through a window. It was a great curiosity and I recollect it perfectly. I do not know what relation Mr. Clark bore to the Wainwrights or how they came to have his portrait, but I was told he was not of the same family to Avhich Mr. Copley, the wife of the painter, belonged ... I thought this account of Mr. Clark curious, from his historic mansion next to the Hutchinsons, and after Mr. Perkins had returned it I retained it to send to you for the collections of your society. Yours sincerely. E. S. QuixcY. AccouKT OF William Clark. (As referred to in above letter.) "The Hon. William Clark lived in the largest and most elaborately finished and furnished house in Boston. It was afterward owned and occu- pied by Sir Henry Frankland and is celebrated in one of Cooper's novels. 56 PART I. *'< Mr. Rowland Ellis of Boston who lived in it many years has a fine exterior view of this famous house and also several elaborate' paintings taken from its walls. He has also the center part of a wooden mosaic floor having the arms of Clark wrought therein. "Mr. Peter Wainwrisjht of this city has among his collection of family portraits one of Mr. William Clark, full size, painted by Emmons in 1732." (See Vol. 17, Mass. Hist. Soc. Coll.) The Clark Estate. In the Warrant for Division (see Suffolk Probate Keg.) are mentioned llobert Clark, the eldest son, of Lunenburgh (guardian, Jonathan Willard, gentleman) ; Benjamin Clark ; Sarah and Katherine Kilby (infant daugh- ters of Christopher Kilby by his late wife Sarah), for whom was appointed Thomas Hancock, guardian ; Rebecca, widow of Samuel Winslow, in her own right, and Thomas Greenough in right of Martha, his wife. To Mrs. Clark was paid £250 from the Lunenburgh property, and, in Boston, the Clark mansion was set off for her use, also a third of the remaining estate. To Robert Clark a piece of land and a roj)ewalk at the west end of Boston. i^enjamin Clark had the Bronsdon place that had been Sarah's portion from her father, also the warehouse and other property in Dock Square. The Kilby children received a house in Cold Lane (Portland Street). We have by no means exhausted the sources of information respecting Sarah (Bronsdon) Clark and her family, indeed we have scarce touched ui)on their history. We have understood that their descendants possess a mass of material concern ina: them. Some Account of the Children of William and Sakah^ Clakk. (79) Sauah Clark* was bapt. July 18, 1708. She was born in a house which had formerly belonged to Henry Cooley, the first husband of her grandmother Bronsdon. She was the fifth child, and the first to survive infancy, and was au object of great regard to her parents. She m. Aug. 18, 1726, Christopher, son of John and Rebecca (Simpkins) Kilby. He was b. Mar. 2o, 1705, consequently he was 21, and she was 18 years old. She d. Apr. 12, 1739. Their Children were : John'' KUht/, b. Apr. 9, 1727; d. young. William* kilhij, b. Sept. 28, 1729 ; d. young. Sarah" Kilby, b. Apr. 9, 1732 ; d. young. Sarah" Kilby, h. Aug. 22, 1736; m. first, Cunningham; second, ISlcAdam. (94) V. Katherine" Kilby, b. ; d. in England in girlhood, 1747. (90) i (91) 11 (92) 111 (93) IV BRONSDON FAMILY. 57 From the Boston Weekly Neivsletter. — " Last week dyed suddenly Mrs. Kilby wife of Mr. Christopher Kilby and daughter of Hon. W" Clark Esq." (Apr. 17, 17,39.) Mr. Kilby was a man of immense wealth. He became her father's busi- ness partner in 172G. They carried on an extensive East India and English trade. Before his wife died, they lived for three years in England. The year of her death, he was elected Kepresentative to the General Court. The next year, he with Robert Auchmuty, was employed in settling the bounds between Massachusetts and Rhode Island. In 1741, he was selected, on account of his statesmanlike qualifications, to be the standing agent of the Province in Great Britain. His little daugh- ters were left in the care of their Grandmother Clark. When they arrived at such ages that the advantages of a foreign education seemed desirable, they were sent out to their father in England. Meantime, he had married again, and had built a residence in Dorking, Surre}^ called " The Priory." He met his children at Portsmouth, and it was a joyful reunion, but soon turned to mourning by the illness and death of Katherine in the same year. There were no children by the second marriage. Married June 20, 1754, Sarah Kilby and Nathaniel Cunningham, Jr., son of Capt. Nathaniel Cunningham of Boston. (Ruth Cunningham, sister of Nathaniel, Jr., m. James Otis, the patriot.) The senior Cunningham was reputed the richest merchant of his day. His residence was in Cambridge, and there Nathaniel, Jr., lived with his bride. Mrs. Sarah Cunningham becaine a widow in 1766, after nearly three years of wedded life. She had two infant daughters, Susanna^, b. 1752, and Sarah^; she did not long remain single. In 1756, England declared war against Prance. John Campbell, fourth Earl of Londoun, having been appointed to the command of all the forces of the King in North America, came to Boston, and in his train was his aide-de-camp, Gilbert McAdam. On page 49 of the records of the Grand Lodge of Masons in Boston, under date of Jan. 31, 1757, we note this entry : " Our Right Worshipful G. M. acquainted the Lodge that the occasion of this jNIeeting was for to make Capt. Gilbert McAdams ' aide de camp ' (and others named) Masons which the Lodge unanimously agreed to." Mr. McAdam was from Ayrshire, in Scotland. He met Mrs. Cunning- ham, and they were married in September, 1757. Capt. McAdam took his wife and step daughters to New York until the close of the war, when they went to Scotland to reside. This was most pleasing to Mr. Kilby, the father of Mrs. McAdam. Her little girls at once became the special objects of his care and generosity, as their mother had been. 58 PART I. (95) Susanna^ Cunningham married., in Scotland, James Dalrymple, the friend of the poet Burns. He introduced Burns to Lord Glencairn, who had married Dalrymple's sister. Burns speaks of this very feelingly in a letter, wliich is published with his book of poems. The Dalrymples of Orangelield, Ayrshire, Scotland, were of an old and illustrious race. One son was born : (97) Charles® Dalrymple, who became an officer in the British Army, and who, presumably, has descendants. James Dalrymple died leaving Susanna a widow. She m. second, John Henry Mills, a Scotchman, whose family in several branches, have won dra- matic eminence. Another son was born to Susanna, John Henry® Mills, Jr., ''poet and actor." He m. a Miss Errington, a relative of Anthony TroUope, the novelist. They lived in Plymouth, England, and in the year 1801, their daughter, Frances Marie Mills, was born. She was of rare personal beauty. She m. first, George Lord ; second. Dr. Richard S. Spofford of Newburyport, Mass. Her oldest son, Richard S. Spofford, Jr., m. the celebrated authoress, Harriett Prescott, who has kindly given us some of these facts. (For a fuller account, see Spofford Gen.) Mrs. Susanna^ Mills was again left a widow, and m. third, William Cunningham, thus returning to her maiden name. Several children were born to the Cunninghams, whose descendants live in Boston, or the neighbor- hood. Mrs. Cunningham d. 1840. (96) Sarah^ Cunningham, daughter of (93) Sarah^ (Kilby) and Nathaniel Cunningham, Jr., of Boston, m. William Campbell, Esq., of Fairfield, Ayr- shire, Scotland, and had two daughters, of whom the eldest m. Aug. 3, 1802, John Douglass Campbell, seventh Duke of Argyll. She died, child- less, Dec. 9, 1818 (see Burke's Peerage), and the Duke of Argyll m. second, Joan Glassel, and they were the grandparents of the Marquis of Lome, who is the husband of Louise, daughter of Victoria, the late Queen of England. Here is the descent of her Grace, the Duchess of Argyll, on the " dis- taff " side, from Sarah, daughter of Robert Bronsdon of Boston : Mr. Robert Bronsdon, " merchant of Boston." Mrs. Sarah (Bronsdon) Clark. Mrs. Sarah (Clark) Kilby. Mrs. Sarah (Kilby) Cunningham. Mrs. Sarah (Cunningham) Campbell. Elizabeth Campbell, Duchess of Argyll. What became of the other daughter of Sarah (Cunningham) Campbell ? 1st Gen 2d 3d 4th 5th Gth BUONSDON FAMILY. 59 In Vol. 17 of Mass. Hist. Society's Coll., p. 'JG, we liiid the following, in which it is (erroneously) stated that Nathaniel Cunningham married successively the iim daughters of Mr. Kilb}^ : " The portraits of the Cunninghams were in possession of Mr. A. S. Porter." (1879.) " Col. Nathaniel Cunningham ... is represented dressed in a light-colored coat of the fashion of that time. The })ortrait of the . wife is painted in the handsome costume of the period." Col. Cunningham died before his wife, Sarah Kilby, and INIr. Kilby had no other daughter grow to w^omanhood. (80) IIkbkckah^ Clark (Sakah-, Eobt. Bronsdon^). (80) Rebeckah'' Clark, daughter of William and Sarah (Bronsdon) Clark, and grand-daughter of Robert and Rebeckah Bronsdon, was bapt. at the Second Church, Apr. 30, 1710. She was b. before her parents went to reside in the Clark mansion, and was named for her grandmother Bronsdon. She m. June 8, 1729, Samuel Wtnslow, son of Edward Winslow. June 22, 1745, Rebeckah Winslow and Samuel Winslow released to their mother, Sarah Clark, the house in Cold Lane, which had been set off to them, for a consideration of £1000, of which sum Samuel Winslow acknowledged the receipt. (See Book 71, leaf 52, Suffolk Deeds.) Another legal instrument dated Sept. 18, 1745, mentions Samuel Wins- low "absent from home." July 1, 1749, Benjamin Clark and Rebeckah Winslow, ividow, release to Thomas Greenough an estate in Cold Lane. We do not find that she had children. The following note was cut from the Boston Evening Transcript : " Samuel Winslow, son of Edward Winslow, had brothers John and Edward. He was at first a merchant of. Boston, but entered the British Navy as midshipman on board her Majesty's Ship ' Vigilant,' and died on board that ship off Louisberg, June 22, 1745." (81) Martha^ Clark (m. Thomas Greenough) (Sarah Bronsdon^, Robert Bronsdon^). (81) Martha^ Clark, daughter of William and Sarah (Bronsdon^) Clark, and grand-daughter of Robert^ and Rebeckah Bronsdon of Boston, was bapt. May 13, 1711, at the Second Church; m. May 9, 1734, Thomas Greexough, son of John and Elizabeth (Gross) and grandson of Capt. William Greenough (b. in England 1639) and Elizabeth (Rainsford). Thomas Greenough was b. May 6, 1710; d. Aug. 16, 1785. Martha (Clark) Greenough d. before 1750, and he m., second, May 24, 1750, Sarah 60 PART I. * Stocldui-il ( from whom is descended William Whitwell Greenougli, late of Boston). Ch lid r en : ( 98) i. Sarah* (ireenough, b. A\ig. 26, 1735; m. Edwards. See (48) Evans Branch. ( D'J) ii. Martha* Creenoiujh, b. Dec. 12, 1736; m. Capt. Stone of Old York. See below. (100) iii. Thomas* Greenough, Jr., b. Maj' 8, 1738. He was a math. inst. maker, m. Jan. 20, 1761, Ann Hobby, and d. at Westford, Ang. 11, 1775. (101) iv. WUllam* Greenough. d. in infancy. (102) V. John* Greenough, b. Apr. 4, 1742; m. Mehitable Dillingham. See below. (103) vi. Williatn* Greenougli, d. young. (104) vii. Elizabeth* Greenough, m. May 27, 1777, Eleazer Brooks. (105) viii. 2[arij* Greenough, ni. John Savage, of York, Me. (100) i.x. Jerusha* Greenough, ni. Lapear (and Crafts?) Mrs. Martha (Clark) Greenough has numerons descendants, only a por- tion of which are given below. We have corresponded witli descendants of (102) John and (99) :Martha, m. Capt. Stone. See History of Ancient and Honorable Artillery Co. for biography of Thomas Greenough. ^91)) JMajitiia"' Gj{kenougii (m. Joiix Stone) (Martha^ Clakk, Sarah llRONSDON", KOBT, BrONSDOX^). (!)'.») Mahtha* Greenough was the second child of Mrs. Martha (Clark) and Dea. Thomas Greenough, and was b. Dec. 12, 1736; m. Capt. John Stone, who was b. 1729; d. 1791. Mrs. Stone d. Feb. 10, 1813. Capt. Stone was a retired sea-captain of Old York, Me., afterward a merchant in Boston. He was the architect and superintendent in building the first bridge connecting Charlestown and Boston in 1786. He d. at Con- cord, Mass. They had eight children, four of whom d. young. Those who survived wore : (107) i. Hannah^ Stone, m. Samuel Minot of Concord, Mass., later of Bath, N. H., Dec. 14, 1797 ; ten children. (108) ii. Thomas^ Stone, m. , and had two children : John^ and Elizabeth^, and d. bef. Apr. 1, 1795, aged 28 years. (109) iii. Sallji^ Stone, m. John Buggies Cotting, M.D., LL.D., of Acton, later of Milledgeville, Ga., and d. leaving two children: i. David Greenough^ Cotting. ii. Susan Greenough^ Cotting. BKONSDON FAMILY. 61 (110) iv. Patt>/ {Martha) Sto7ie, b. May 6, 1782; in. Sept. 19, 1805, William Muuroe of Concord, Mass., formerly of Koxbury, and 1). Dec. 19, 1778; d. Mar. 6, 18G1. Mrs. Munroe d. Apr. 2, 18GG, aged nearly 84 years. Mrs. Munroe was the youngest of her father's family. She was born in Old York, INIe., but lived most of her life in Concord, ]\Iass. Mr. Munroe removed from Roxbury to Concord when 20 years old. He was a mechanic of high order, and was the first manufacturer of lead pencils in the United States, and the chief one for many years. Mr. and Mrs. Mun- roe had nine children, three of whom are now living, Alfred, Mary and Eliza, aged respectively 84, 82 and 78 years. Miss Mary Munroe furnished this family record and sent information in regard to the Clark-Greenough ancestry, for which we here tender our appreciative thanks. William and (110) Pattij (Stone) Munroe had nine children: (111) i. William^ Munroe, b. June 24, 1806 ; d. Apr. 27, 1877. He built and presented the " Free Pub- lic Library " to the town of Concord, Mass. (112) li. Martha Stone^ Munroe, b. July 9, 1808; d. Feb. 12, 1864. (113) iii. Man/ Elizabeth^ Munroe, b. Nov. 3, 1810; d. July 15, 1813. (114) iv. Thomas^ Munroe, b. Oct. 18, 1812; d. Aug. 11, 1884; m. Ellen Middleton of London, Eng., July 4, 1839, and had three children : (115) i. Marjj 31iddleto7i' Munroe, d. young. (116) ii. Ral/jh Middleton'' Munroe, b. Apr. 3, 1851 ; m. first, Eva A. Hewitt of Staten Island, N.Y., and had Edith^ b. Mar. 19, 1881, d. Dec. 30, 1881 ; and m. second, Jessie Wirth of Waterbury, Conn., July, 1895, and had Martha Wirth« Munroe, b. Nov. 22, 1900, at Cocoanut Grove, Fla. (117) iii. Ellen Middleton'' Munroe, b. May 13, 1855 ; m. Dec. 25, 1878, Peter Townsend Austen, Ph.D., of Staten Island, N. Y., and has three children : (118) i. William^ Mnnroe, b. Mar. 23, 1883. (119) ii. Elizabeth Pattrf Munroe, b. Aug. 3, 1884. (120) iii. Osivald Townsend^ Munroe, b. Dec. 6, 1885. (121) V. Francis^ Munroe, b. Dec. 7. 1814 ; d. Nov. 7, 1870; m. Nov. 12, 1844, Phebe F. Davis of Gloucester, Mass., and has one son : ' (122) i. Alfred'' Munroe, b. May 12, 1848. 62 PART I. (123) vi. Alfred^ Munroe, b. Jan. 4, 1817 ; m. Aug. 8, 1848, ]\ri-s. Martha (Foye) ivozzell of Portsmoiith, 2s. H. She d. Jan. 24, 186G. Mr. Munroe res. in Concord, Mass. (124) vii. Murif^ Munroe, b. Jan. 4,1819; res. in Concord, Mass. (125) viii. Elizabeth^ Munroe (Eliza) b. Sept. 14, 1822; res. in Concord, Mass. (126) ix. James Wallace^ Munroe, b. Apr. 25, 1825 ; d. Aug. 29, 1825. Note. Miss Mary Munroe kindly furnished records of Clark, Greenough and Stone families. (100) Thomas* Greenough, Jr. (Martha^ Clark, Sarah Bronsdon^, Robert Bronsdon^). He was b. May 8, 1738. Was a mathematical instr. maker; m. Jan. 20, 1761, Axx Hobby, and d. at Westford, Aug. 11, 1775. Children: (127) i. BacheV' Greenough, b. in Boston, 1763; m. Mar. 6, 1786, Jonas Brooks. He d. at Wiscasset, Me., Sept. 28, 1850, and she d. Sept. 15, 1852, aged 89 yrs. See below (nine children). (128) ii. Ann^ Greenough, b. Aug. 24, 1765 ; m. first, Elisha Bangs, Xov. 2, 1786 ; second, John Bright ; third, John Paine, July 6, 1836. She d. Jan. 23, 1855. Three Children: (129) i. Mur}f Bangs, m. Daniel Tuttle ; d. aged 30 yrs. (130) ii. IVAo?/;c/i^ />(n//7.s. m. first, Eleanor Groves ; second, Elizabeth Tucker ; d. aged 34 yrs. (131) iii. George^ Bangs, d. at Savannah, Ga., aged 21 yrs. (132) iii. Sallif Greenough, b. ; m. Nov. 26, 1786, Wm. Cordwell, or Caldwell, and d. in Boston, aged 19 yrs. ; bur. at Copp's Hill. She left two children : (133) i. Snlly^ Cnhhrell, m. Thomas Weld. (134) ii. 21ari/ Caldwell. (135) iv. Elizaheth^ Greenough, b. in Boston, Aug. 17, 1771 ; m. IS^ov. 7, 1793, Capt. Will slow Lewis of AVellfleet, Mass., and d. Jan. 11, 1842, aged 70 yrs. Six Children : (136) i. Winslow^ Lewis, Jr., b. Jan. 4, 1829 ; d. June 8, 1831. (137) ii. Eli-:aheth Greenough^ Lewis, b. Dec. 31, 1831 ; m. Nov. 21, 1855, George H. Gay, M.D., and had children : (138) i. Frederic Lewis' Gay, b. Oct. 28, 1857. (139) ii. George Henrif Gay, b. Mar. 20, 1861. BRONSDON FAMILY. 63 (140) iii. MarUt irichards^ Leiris, b. Apr. 20, 1834; m. Nov. ^5, 18;")"), Warren Fisher, Jr., of Boston; d. Jan. 9, 1859, aged 24 yrs. (141) iv. Frederic W'msloir^ Leu-is, b. Jan. 25. 1830; d. young. (142) V. irinsloir'^ Leu-is (name changed by act of legis- lature from James Lewis), b. Feb. 25, 1839 ; d. aged 10 yrs. (143) vi. EmeJine^ Lewis, b. Apr. 18, 1841; m. Arthur Cheney, Oct. 29, 18GG, in Boston. (137) Rachel^ Grebnough (m. Jonas Brooks) (Thomas^ Jr., Martha* Clark, Sarah Bronsdon^, Robt. Bronsdon^). Rachel^ Greenough, whose birth, marriage, etc., are already given, liad nine children : i. Jonas G.^ Brooks, d. young. (144) ii. Jonas G.^ Brooks, b. at Pepperell, Mass., Aug. 20, 1789 ; m. at Wiscasset, Me., Betsy, dau. of Col. Ezekiel Cutter, Sept. 21, 1817 ; d. Feb. 18, 1828, in his 39th year. (145) iii. An?i Ilomer^ Brooks, b. July, 1791 ; m. Capt. Elisha J. Taylor, Jan. 27, 1853. (14G) iv. Rachel^ Brooks, b. Mar. 16, 1794; m. Capt. Wm. Carleton of Wiscasset, Me., Dec. 24, 1818. . (147) V. John^ Brooks, h. June 27, 1795; merchant at AViscasset, Me. ; m. Charlotte Webster, Sept. 25, 1825. (148) vi. Eliza Lewis^ Brooks, b. May 18, 1797 ; m. first, Capt. George Woods; and m. second, Philip E. Theobald, M.D., of Wis- casset, Me. (149) vii. Andreu- Homer^ Brooks, a mariner, d. at Cronstadt, Russia, viii. Mary Allen^ Brooks, b. Dec. 14, 1802 ; d. 1826, unmarried. (150) ix. EmeUne H.^ Brooks, b. at Augusta, Me., Apr. 1, 1804 ; m. Nov. 21, 1823, Charles Willvins of Boston, and had seven children : (151) i. Charles Brooks'' Wilkins. b. 1829; m. Norris, dau. of S. Norris of Boston, and d. Nov. 23, 1856. (152) ii. Man/ Wilkins. (153) iii. Emeline' Willdns. (154) iv. Charlofte'' Wilkins. (155) V. Joseph'' Wilkins. (156) vi. Henry' Wilkins. (157) vii. George? W'dkins. (102) JoHx* Greenough (Martha^ Clark, Sarah Bronsdon'^, Robert Bronsdon^). He was b. 1742; grad. at Yale Coll., 1759; m. Mehitable Dilling- ham of Harwich, Mass., Oct. 16, 1766; lived at Wellfleet ; d. July, 1781. She d. Ax;g. 25, 1798, aged 51 yrs. 64 PAKT I. Children : (158) i. Sarah^ Greenough, b. Sept. 3, 1768 ; drowned, Nov. 30, 1788. (159) ii. -fohn^ Greenough, Jr., b. July 18, 1770; d. at the age of 19 yrs. (IGO) iii. inilifim^ Greenough, b. Jan. 6, 1772; twice married. See below. (161) iv. Davkl^ Greenough, b. July 24, 1774; lived in Boston; m. Betty liender of Marlboro. See below. (162) V. AhlgaiP Greenough, b. Dec. 28, 1776. (163) vi. Me'hitalde^ Greenough, b. Apr. 18, 1779; d. at Boston, May 1, 1781. (164) vii. 3[ehitable^ Greenough, b. May 3, 1781 ; d. Aug. 23, 1798. ( IGO I William^ Greenough (John^, Martha^ Clark, Sarah Bronsdon^, Egbert Brgnsdon^). William* Greenough, b. 1772; m. first, Mary Moore of Boston, Apr. 24, 1794 ; she d. June 10, 1809 ; and he m. second, Mary Harrod of Haverhill, Apr. 15, 1811. Ch ihlren : (165) i. Thomas Moore^ Greenou(ih, b. in Boston, Mar. 24, 1795 ; d. Sept. 10, 1826. (166) ii. Sarah^ Greenough, b. July 12, 1796; d. Sept. 8, 1798. (167) iii. John^ Greenough, b. January, 1798; d. young. (168) iv. William Charles^ Greenough, b. July 19, 1799 ; d. Feb. 3, 1827. (169) V. Albert A.^ Greenouqh. b. Mar. 30, 1802. (170) vi. Benj. F.^ Greenough, b. Mar. 22, 1806; m. Sophie Webb; no children. (171) vii. EdiiK J/.« Greenough, b. Dec. 7, 1808. (172) viii. John J.° Greenough, b. Jan. 19, 1812; m. Dec. 16, 1835, Mary F. Gushing. (173) ix. Jo.s-. If.^ Greenougli, b. Dec. 4, 1814; d. young. (IGl) I>Aviij^ Greenough (John*, Martha^ Clark, Sarah Bronsdon^, Robert Bronsdon^). ]^A\ii)'''' Greenough, fourth child of John and Mehitable (Dillingham) Greenough, in. at Marlborough, Mass., "Betty" Bender, dan. of Peter and Abigail Bender, and b. at Marlborough, Sept. 10, 1776. Her father, Peter Bender, was the son of Jacob and Abigail Bender, who emigrated from the vicinity of Eschelbach, Baden, in Germany, about the year 1750. They were influential members of Trinity Church, Boston. The Bender family, in Boston, lived in Frog Lane (Boylston Street), where Jacob Bender d. June 29, 1783, aged 73 yrs. ; and Abigail, his wife, d. Mar. 1, 1800, aged 81 yrs. (These Avere the grandparents of Betty (Bender) Greenough; also of Capt. William Parker of Boston, whose grandson is Creighton W. Parker of Lynn, Mass.) Some members of the Bender family resided in BRONSDON FAMILY. 65 North Carolina, and were wealthy planters. Tlie}^ were descendants of Jacob and Abigail Bender of Boston. David Greenough d. July, 1836. Tlieir Children were: (174) i. MehltahJe^ Greenough, d. young. (175) ii. John^ Greenovffh,h. Nov. 19,1801; grad. of Harvard Univ.; m. an English lady ; no children. (17C) iii. Laura An7i^ Greeiiougli, d. aged 13 yrs. (177) iv. Horatio^ Greenough, b. Sept. 6, 1805 ; grad. of Harvard Univ. ; m. Louisa Gore; d. at Somerville, Dec. 18, 1852. He was an eminent sculptor. (178) V. Henri/ Greenough, b. Oct. 5, 1807; ni. first, Frances Boott ; second, Susan P. Parker, Apr. 25, 1839; d. at Boston, June 10, 1851. (179) vi. Laura^ (christened Amelia) Greenough, b. Nov. 16, 1811 ; m. June 14, 1838, I. B. Curtis, and has descendants in Boston (see Pickering Gen.). (180) vii. Mlefi'^ Greenough, b. Mar. 28, 1814; m. C. P. Huntington June 2, 1847. (181) viii. Charlotte^ Greenough, b. Sept. 4, 1818 ; ni. June 3, 1852, Charles H. Parker of Boston. (182) ix. Richard SaltonstaW Greenough, b. Apr. 27, 1819; m. Oct. 20, 1846, Sarah D. Loring. He was a noted sculptor ; his statue of Benjamin Franklin adorns the space in front of the City Hall, Boston, while the statue of Edward Everett, in the Boston Public Garden, is the work of Horatio Greenough. (86) Benjamin-^ Clark (Sarah^, Robert Bronsdok^). Benjamin^ Clark was bapt. Aug. 10, 1718. There is a record of his marriage as follows : "Intentions of marriage of Benjamin Clark and Susanna Humble, Oct. 22, 1742." ' Marriage of Benjamin Clark and Susanna Humble, Nov. 25, 1742. They were married at King's Chapel, Boston. Susanna was probably dau. of John and Susanna (Jarret) Humble of Boston, who were married by the Presbyterian minister. Rev. Samuel Miles, Dec. 19, 1716. In 1747 and 1749, Benjamin and Susanna Clark disposed of all their real estate in Boston for a considerable sum, and do not again appear in the records, which gives rise to a reasonable conjecture that they removed from Boston at or just after that time. Benjamin Clark was a merchant; in 1729, he Avas the partner of Christopher Kilby. Note. Mr. I. J. Greenwood writes that, " Mrs. Susannah Clark died in 1771 and left no children. Benjamin Clark was an 'Addressor & Protester' in 1774, died, prob- ably in poor circumstances, Feb. 19, 1780, and is buried in his father's vault on Copp's Hill." ^^ 5 66 PART I. Beniamin Clark inherited in right of his mother the old Cooley-Bronsdon estate, and from his father, a warehouse described in deed given below ; also other property : Clark to Goldthwait : <« To all People to whom these presents shall come Beniamin Clark of Boston .... merchant, sendeth greeting. Know ye that I the said Benjamin Clark for and m consideration of the sum of .■t'2050 in good bills of credit of the old tenor to me m hand paid bv Thomas Goldthwait of Boston, merchant .... have granted bargained sold and confirmed .... unto the said Thomas Gold- thwait all that Brick warehouse with the land and wharf whereon the same doth stand situate lying and being near the entrance or mouth of the Dock commonly known as Beudalls Dock in Boston and contameth m length 40 feet or thereabouts and in breadth 20 feet, with all the cellars, rooms and appurtenances thereunto belonging, late the estate of William Clark late of said Boston, merchant, deceased, also half the passage or wharf on the westerly side of said warehouse with that and the warehouse of Joseph Tlu.mpson of London Esq. (?) which said passageway is to he m common, each proprietor reparing his part thereof, which said warehouse is butted and bounded easterly by the warehouse of the late John Foster Esq standing on the wharffe formerly John Woodmanseys, southerly by the warehouse formerly of John Wait standing also upon the said Wood- manseys wharffe, westerly by the aforesaid passageway and northerly by a wharffe, highway or passageway that leads from the Swing Bridge at the mouth or e°itrance of the Town Dock aforesaid towards the sea, together with the free liberty of landing and shipping off any goods belonging to the said Thomas Goldthwait also liberty to build a chamber over the wharffe, .... leaving a passageway of convenient height for the passage of 'loaden carts, .... also liberty to build a crane in said chamber .... and to keep in said warehouse a scale, beam and wei"-hts yielding or paying for the same on the 1st day of Apnl yearly one pepper corn if demanded as an Honorarium to the Treas- urer or Selectmen of the Town of Boston according to a covenant and agreement between the said John Woodmansey and the Selectmen of said Town of Boston bearing date 20th of October 1669 I the said Benjamin Clark and Susanna my wife have hereunto set our hands and seals the 21st day of August 1749 in presence of Mary Bridge, John Bridge." Ack. before Ezekikl Goldthwait. (Book 77, leaf 52, Suffolk Deeds.) (84) KoBEKT^ Clark (Sarah-, Kobt. Bro^sdon.^). Egbert' Clark,' tenth child of William and Sarah (Bronsdon^) Clark, was b. Apr. 22, 1716, and is the one mentioned in the records of the town of Lunenburgh as having married July 31, 1738, Mrs. Mary Pvead. He is spoken of in 1762 as '^non compos meritls," and under the guardianship of Jonathan Willard, Esq., gentleman, of Lunenburgh. BRONSDON FAMILY. 67 Children of Egbert^ and Mary Clark : (183) i. Sarah^ Clark, b. Aug. 9, 1739, in Lunenburgli. (184) ii. Mari/' Clark, b. Feb. 11, 1741-42, in Lunenbul•^h. (185) iii. William' Clark, b. Nov. 30, 1743, in Lnnenburgh. There is no further mention of this family, but doubtless they could be traced from the Probate Records of Worcester County, In Suffolk Reg. of Deeds we find that on Apr. 8, 1748, Jonathan Willard, guardian for Robert Clark of Lunenburgh, Mass., conveyed two- fifths of the Clark Mansion (Clark-Frankland House) to Thomas Greenough for £1640, old tenor. Memoranda. Dea. Thomas Greenough gave to the church at Newton, in 1781, a ''christening Bason, Two Flagons and two dishes for the Communion Ser- vice." His son by a second wife, Rev. Wm. Greenough, was Pastor of that church for fifty years. Clark's Wharf. Clark's Wharf was the principal wharf at the North End. It was opposite the point where later stood the British Coffee House. The Wharf was afterward Hancock's Wharf, and now Lewis Wharf, Boston. 68 PART I. The Bronsdon Line. (9) l^ENJAMiN Bronsdon^ (Robt.^). [Only surviving son of Robert]. (9) Benjamin Bronsdon^ Avas the son of Robert Bronsdon^ by his secoml Avife, Eebeckah. He was b. Aug. 30, 1686 ; m., by Increase Mather, Mar. 25, 1707-8, to Miss Mary Bant, who was b. in Boston, at the " South End," Mar. 22, 1691-2, and was the dau. of Capt. Gilbert and Mercy (Whitwell) Bant. Benjamin m. second, Elizabeth , who outlived him. Mrs. Mary (Bant) Bronsdon d. Oct. 6, 1751, and Benjamin Bronsdon^ d. April 12, 1757. Elizabeth was his wife before 1756. He was a merchant. We have the names of seventeen children, all b. in Boston ; some dates were obtained from the town records, and others from the books of the Second or " Okie North " Church. Children: (187) i. Merci/ Bronsdon^ b. Sept. 15, 1708; d. Dec. 17, 1786, aged 78 ; m. first, John Frizzel], Jr. ; second, Jos. Wise; third, Hon. Wm. Stoddard. See below. (188) ii. Miwy Bronsdon^, b. Aug. 12; bapt. Aug. 13, 1710; d. Oct. 15, 1721, aged 11 yrs. (189) iii. liehecca Bronsdnn^, b. Apr. 12; bapt. Apr. 13, 1712; d. July 4, 1712, aged 3 mos. (190) iv. Robert Brousdoti^, b. July 12, 1713 ; bapt. July 13; d. Dec. 11, 1713, aged 6 mos. (191) V. Gllhert Bronsdon^, b. Feb. 2; bapt. Feb. 27, 1714-15; d. before 1732. (192) vi. Benjamin Bronsdon^, h.Y&h. 2^, Illo-IQ; m. first, Hand; second, Elizabeth Foxcroft; was living iu 1756. See below. (193) vii. iiohert Bronsdon^, b. Aug. 9; bapt. Aug. 11, 1717 ; d. Oct. 16, 1721, aged 4 yrs. (194) viii. William Bronsdon^, b. Apr. 6; bapt. Apr. 12, 1719; d. Aug. 25, 1719, aged 6 mos. (195) ix. William Brom^don^, b. May 2, 1720 ; bapt. May 8 ; d. Oct. 1, 1721, aged 17 mos. (190) X. Bant Bronsdon^, b. Oct. 23, 1721 ; m. Elizabeth Box; d. between 1765 and 1774. See below. (197) xi. Robert Bronsdon^, b. Mar. 10, 1722 ; living 1726, but not in 1756 ; probably m. Mary and d. ; she m., 1748, Thomas Allison. C198) xii. William, Bronsdon'', b. July, 1724; d. young (before 1728). {l\Y^) xiii. Mary Bronsdon^, bapt. Dec. 19, 1726 ; d. single, prob. in 1784. (200) xiv. Sarah Bro7isdon\ bapt. Feb. 26, 1727 ; d. before 1756. (201) XV. William Bronsdon^ bapt. June 16, 1728 ; d. before 1756. Noth- iug more knowu of him. BRONSDON FAMILY. 69 (202) xvi. Elizabeth Bronsdon% b. Feb. 29, 1729; d. single, Feb. 11, 1810, aged 81 vrs. See below. (203) xvii. Rebecca Bronsdou^, b. Nov., 1731; living in 175G; may have m. Damerill. No further record. (9) Benjamin Bronsdon's Biography. The oldest son, Joseph Bronsdon'-, was living when Benjamin Bvonsdon^ Avas born, therefore the advent of another male heir did not seem of such importance as it afterward assumed, for Joseph died in his young manhood a few months, or years, before his father, and thus Benjamin became the head of the family at his father's death in 1701. As was stated in the biography of Robert Bronsdon^, arrangements were made whereby William Clark, upon his marriage to Miss Sarah Bronsdon'^, should take up his resi- dence ill the Bronsdon mansion, and Benjamin should live with them. Samuel Greenwood was executor of the Bronsdon estate. Benjamin chose for his guardian, William Clark, as seen by the following : Letter of Guardianship. " Know all men by these presents that I, Benjamin, son of Robert Bronsdon late of Boston in the County of Suffolke within the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, merch'^, decsd, (being a minor about 16 years of age) Have nominated and chosen and do hereby nominate make choice of and depute my Brother in law William Clark of Boston afores'* mercli* to be my Guardian with full power and authority for me and in my name and to my use to aske, demand, sue for, recover, receive & take into his possession and custody all and singular such part and portion of the estate left by my s^ father as doth of right belong and accrue unto me and all other estate to me belonging or appertaining by any ways or means what- ever and to manage imploy and improve the same for ni}^ best profit and advantage during my minority and to do all and whatsoever may be neces- sary in and about the premises as fully and effectually as I myselfe might or could do being of full age, praying that he may be accordingly accepted with the Same power and trust." Witness my hand and Seal thereunto set the third day of August, anno domini 1702 (signed) B. Bronsdon and a seal Signed, sealed and delivered in presence of us. John Clark. Jonathan Evans. Suffolk, By the Hon*'i« Elisha Cook Escf Judge of Probate &c The above mentioned minor Benjamin personally appeared before me and on the day and date thereof acknowledged the above written instrument or Letter of Guardianship to be his Act and Deed Which I do approve of and allow 70 PAKT I. \iul in testimony thereof have hereunto set my hand and seal of the Court of Probate afoVes'* Dated at Boston afores* the 3*^ day of August, Anno Domini 1702. Examiii'' p'- Is^ Addingtox Reg'. (signed) Elisha Cooke. Young Benjamin was lavishly supplied with all the belongings of a young man of fashion. Black stockings and shoes of many kinds ; yards and yards of long cloth and line '•' linnen " which were made into ruffled shirts and " neck-cloathes " for " Ben " by Abigail Jarvis ; '' imported cloth for fine suits of clothes, and Jon^ Pollard the taylor" cut and made them in the latest fashion ; powder and powder boxes, combs, etc. ; divers pairs of gloves; a suit of clothes charged at £11 ; a Bible and a Prayer Book, are a few of the items charged to his account ; also, " spending money for Ben as agreed ixpon," etc. There is nothing in Samuel Greenwood's account that throws any light upon the means taken to educate the young heir. Doubtless the proper course was followed, as in matters of dress. His signature is good, showing that he practised with the pen. On Jan. 2, 1708, he became a member of the Second Church, where he had been baptized as an infant. A few weeks later he married Miss Mary Bant, whose father, Capt. Gilbert Bant, was one of the most prominent and wealthy gentlemen of Boston. (See Appen- dix I for history of the Bant family.) Mary Bant was born at the South End of Boston, but her father seems to have been a member of the Second Church, although many of his family belonged to the South Church. Some of Benjamin Bronsdon's friends and. associates are indicated in an entry in the Journal of Samuel Sewall, who has written as follows : "INIch 30^" 1705. Went to the funeral of young M'' Allen, M' Daniel Allen's son, a very hopeful youth. Gov. and his lady there. Bearers Wil- lard, David Stoddard, Bronsdon, Coleman, Banister and Foxcraft." The custom of the time was for the nearest friends of the deceased to officiate as bearers. The Bant family has always exercised an unbounded influence upon the Bronsdon race. Bant is now a lost name in Boston, where it once stood for wealth and power. In point of suitability of age, fortune and family, the marriage of Benjamin Bronsdon and Mary Baut seemed perfect. The young couple must have had a gay wedding in the new mansion house j^the " Black- stone House," demolished in 1870 by the widening of Hanover Street). Mary was then about 16, and Benjamin 21 years old. They went to house- keeping in the Bronsdon mansion, long since swept away in the "'changes which time hath wrought " at the North End. Benjamin had taken charge of his own business upon coming of age. Tradition in the Bronsdon family tells us that William Bant, his brother-in- law, was at one time in partnership with him. Opposite his house was BKONSDON FAMILY. Bronsdon's wharf, " 100 feet deep"; also a ware house and brew house, and lie owned a second ware house in Merchant's Row. A large section of the out wharves belonged to him. I u the year 1707, he "owned three neagroes." In 1708, he served a term as Constable, and thereby considered himself discharged from public duties, for when elected to the office, in 172G, he "declined to serve." "In 1723, Mr. Beuj. Bronsdon chosen Clerk of the j\[arket. Declined to serve." (See Town llecord.) " Anno 1726 Jan"' 30. Liberty is granted by the Selectmen to Benjamin Bronsdon to take up the pavement and digg up the ground to clear the drain from his house in Ship Street to a cellar across the way in said Street pro- vided he forth with make good the ground and pavement to the satisfaction of the Selectmen and keep it in repare from time- to time." (Town Eecord.) Allowances to Build. "Benjamin Bronsdon allowed to erect a Timber building for a Store- house of 60 foot long, 15 foot wide & 7 foot studd on his wliarff below his Warehouse in Ship Street in Boston the s*^ Building to stand w*'^ the North westerly End thereof Forty foot Distant beloAv his other Building & the South easterly End thereof towards the Harbour." " Allowance to Benjamin Bronsdon to Erect Timber buildings for a Salt house of 25 foot Long, 14 foot wide and 8 foot Stud on his Wharfe to Stand 4 foot Distant below his Smith's Shop in the present tenure of Townsend and the Easterly end thereof joyning to a Warehouse of his Stand- ing nigh the lower End of his Wharfe below Ship Street at the North End of Boston the Said Spot of Wharfe having been usually Incumbred with Lumber and combustable things." Aug. 1, 1710. " Allowance to Build to Benjamin Bronsdon to erect a Timber Building for a Warehouse of Forty foot long, sixteen foot wide & sixteen foot studd on the easterly or lower end of his Wharfe Scituate at the lower side of Ship Street in Boston the w''^ Building will Stand Forty foot distant from any other Building now standing. In Consideration of his erecting the s'^ build- ing the better to prevent the spreading of fire he will demolish buildings of his about the same breadth and length now standing upon the upper or westerly part of his s*^ Avharfe." July 14, 1715. (See 29th Pteport Eec. Com., Boston.) Also, in 1715, Benjamin Bronsdon's petition to be allowed to erect other buildings with timber disallowed by the town. (See Town Records.) "Jan'' 30 1713-14. Cry of fire about five in the morning. Mv. Webbs malthouse near M'' Bronsdons was burnt down. Part of the house of M'" Bronsdon the Landlord began to burn." (Sewall's Diary.) 72 PAKT T. One has only to read of the terribly destructive conflagrations of those times to realize something of the anxiety that day must have brought to Benjamin and his family. The following Bill of Lading is preserved by one of the families descended from Benjamin Bronsdon-, to whom it refers : " Shipped by the Grace of God in good order and well conditioned, by Edward Nickolls, in and upon the good ship called the Edward, wliereof is master under God for this present voyage Kathaniel Mason Commander and now B B riding at Anchor in the Bay of Carlile and by God's Grace Xo H. bound for Boston. ba To sayP'our Hhds. of rum Being on the proper account & risque of Mr. Benj* Bronsdon merchant of Boston bein" marked and numbered as in the margent. and also to be delivered in the lihe good order and well conditioned at the aforesaid Port of Boston (the Danger of the seas only excepted) unto the above said M"" Benj'^ Bronsdon or to his assigns he or they paj'ing freight for said goods Five pounds — With Primage and Average accustomed In wit- ness whereof the Master or Purser of said Ship hath affirmed to three Bills of Ladings all of this tenor and date the one of which three Bills being accomplished the other two to stand void. And so God send the good ship to her desired j)ort in safety, Amen. Dated in Barbados, May i2"\ 1713. Insides and Contents unknown. Nath^ Masox." In the original paper the letter S is a large and beautiful letter, engraved with ships in the lower curl of the S. Of the seventeen children, wliose names are recorded as having been born to Benjamin and Mary Bronsdon, but two had descendants. Three of them died in the short space of four weeks, in the Autumn of 1721, swept away by one of those terrible epidemics which periodically devasted the land. One of the most deplorable things in colonial times was the waste of infant life. One little Bronsdon died in 1712, another in 1713, and still another in 1719, so that in 1721 but three out of nine children remained in the family. Of these, Mercy ^, the first-born, was thrice married, and died at 78, leaving no descendants. Gilbert^ the namesake and favorite of his grand- father Bant, who made provision to give him an education at Harvard Col- lege, died probably of the small-pox, which raged with fearful virulence in the North End of Boston, in 1728-30 ; for though he was now living in 1726, he had died before 1732. Benjamin* became a sea-captain. He married and had children, but BRONSDON FAMILY. 73 has no male descendants, in this conntry, at least ; he finally settled perma- nently in England. lie has descendants in America, through his daughter, Mrs. Martha^ Eddy, and died in 18.30. In the midst of all the sorrow occasioned by the loss of the children in 1721, Bant Bronsdon^ was born. He survived, and is the ancestor of all bearing the name of Bronsdon in America. Four of the Bronsdon infants were named William for William Bant, their uncle ; all died young. Three attempts were made to jjerpetuate the name of Robert, but in vain ; and there has never been a Eobert Bronsdon since those days. Other branches of the family kept " Robert " as a favorite name, but the surname was not, of course, Bronsdon. Mary Bronsdon^, the thirteenth child is supposed to have been that Mistress Mary Bronsdon who died in 1781, at the age of 03 yrs. Elizabeth Bronsdon'^, '' ]\Iiss Betty," lived until 1810, and Avas the last of her genera- tion. There was a younger daughter, Rebecca Bronsdon^, who probably married, but of whom we cannot find the slightest trace after 1756. It has been suggested that she also went to England. The sons of Benjamin Bronsdon'-, having been ship masters, a goodly portion of the Bronsdon wealth was invested in marine enterprises, and as those times were particularly disastrous, on account of the French and Eng- lish troubles and reprisals, we may conclude that Benjamin, as well as his brother-in-law Clark, suffered severe losses from that cause. Mention of, or Abstracts of Deeds, Connected with Benjamin Bronsdon's- Estate. In 1708, on attaining the age of 21 years, he deeded his half of the old Cooley estate to his brother-in-law, William Clark. This was the home of Henry Cooley, whose widow married Robert Bronsdon, and thereby brought him a fortune. This estate passed from W^illiam Clark to Benja- min^ Clark, nephew and namesake of Benjamin Bronsdon^. The Cooley house was next to the Bronsdon residence. Bronsdon to Williams. In 1708, he sold the " Knight place" in Salem to John Williams. This was one of the first (if not tlie first) estates acquired in Massachusetts Bay Colony by Robert Bronsdon^ (See Essex Reg. of Deeds at Salem ; also, biography of Robert Bronsdon in this book.) ''Out Wharf.'' In 1719, he sold a section of the ''ont wharf " or sea wall, near King (now State Street) Pier (Long Wharf) to Samuel Greenwood, his brother-in- law. (Book 34, leaf 163, Suffolk Reg. of Deeds.) 74 PAKT I. Bronsdon to Hooten (Houghton). In 172G, he disposed of a house and laud to John Hooten, and three years Later Hooten bought additional land of Bronsdon, together with- a right of way and a wharf privilege. (Book 39, leaf 234, Suffolk Deeds.) Bro7isclon to Clark. In 1740, he mortgaged another section of the out-wharves to William Clark, also land on Ship Street. (Book 59, leaves 122, 123, Suffolk Deeds.) /// Mendon and She)'l)orn. Benjamin Bronsdon was one of a company of merchants, which included William Douglass, Habijah Savage, Esq., John Bonning, William and Andrew Tyler, who purchased of the State, through its agents, Paul Dudley, John Quiney and Benjamin Whittemore, two parcels of land, one plat, lettered A, containing llOl acres at Mendon and Sherborn ; the other, lettered B, at " AUum" Pond on the Province line, containing 1900 acres, for all of which the sum of £528 :19s. was paid. (Book 36, leaf 262, Suffolk Reg.) An old map of 1732 gives Bronsdon as the owner of a w^arehouse in Merchant's Eow. Prom his house to the Eow he had to cross the "Swing Bridge," across the Dock. In the rear of the warehouse was the old Corn Market, beyond which was Woodmansey's Wharf. (See diagram in Boston ^Memorial History.) In front of the warehouse was the market, where '< fish, flesh and fowl were to be had in abundance, supplemented by a gen- erous variety of vegetables, fruits and herbs, while a profusion of nuts and berries in their seasons helped to furnish forth the tables of our ancestors." Merchants and sliij) owners also imported foreign fruits and products. The streets were first formally named in 1708. Anne Street started at Dock Square, led northerly over the Swing Bridge to Elliston's Corner (so called from George Elliston's shop, but Capt. Bant owned the building), at the foot of Cross Street. From Elliston Corner the way took the name of Fish .Street, and on that part Mrs. Mary (Bronsdon) Evans lived. From Everton's Corner the way took the name of Ship Street to the North Battery, and it was then the water front. Since then the flats have been filled, wharves extended further out, and Commercial Street (a part of which was Greenough's Lane) interposed between Ship Street (now North) and the water. Soon after the death of ^Nlary, his wife, Benjamin Bronsdon^ sold his wharf and warehouse to Thomas Goldthwait. We quote a portion of this deed : " To All People unto whom these presents shall come Benjamin Bronsdon of Boston in the County of Suffolk and Province of Massachu- setts Bay in New England, merch*. sends greeting, Know ye That I the s^^ Benjamin Bronsdon for and in consideration of the sum £266:13s:4d BRONSDON FAMILY. 75 lawful money to me in haucl paid at and before the ensealing and delivery of these presents well and truly paid by Thomas Goldthwait of ]>oston ]\[erch^ the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge, do convey all that parcel of land with the Avharffe, Avarehouse, shops and buildings thereon sitnate being and lying at the Northerly end of Boston known by the name of Bronsdon's Wharffe and is the whole lower part thereof for the distance of 168 feet from the street called Ship street and is bounded northerly on land and wharf of the heirs of Samuel White, deed, and east- erly on salt Avater 36 feet, southerly on William Bant's land and westerly on the passageway leading from Ship street down to the hereby granted premises in part and partly on said Bronsdons own land and warehouse measuring 3G feet in width and to hnv Avater mark." Witnessed bv William Stoddard and Ezekiel Goldthwait on Nov. 16, 1751. (See Book 80, leaf 271, Suffolk Deeds.) William Bant agreed not to obstruct the Avaterway to said Avharf by building out so as to exclude vessels exceeding 200 tons burthen. In 1754, Benjamin Bronsdon sold that part of the Wharf and land previously reserved by him, to GoldthAvait. (See Book 85, leaf 137, Suffolk Reg. of Deeds.) In 1756, William Bant died, and, in the settlement of the Bant estate, it became necessary to sell the mansion on Middle (Hanover) Street. (This was the house afterAvard knoAvn as the "Blackstone House," and is fully described in the Bant history in this book — see Appendix I.) Ezekiel Gold- thwait was the purchaser, and he required a quit-claim deed of each heir to the Bant estate. By these papers Ave learn that Benjamin Bronsdon-, Sr., had married again between the times of selling property in 1751 and sign- ing this paper in 1755, for the name of Elizabeth, his wife, appears Avith his. We also learn that Benjamin Bronsdon*^, Jr., " mariner," and his second wife, Elizabeth (Foxcroft), were living. Bant Bronsdon^, •' mariner," and his wife, Elizabeth (Box), also released the estate to Ezekiel Goldthwait on Jan. 23, 1756. Mrs. Mercy (Bronsdon^) Stoddard and her third husband, William Stoddard, Mary Bronsdon*^ and Elizabeth Bronsdon, "spinsters," and Rebecca Bronsdon^, ''single Avoman," were the other heirs Avho released each their one-sixth part of the Bant estate. (Book 88, Suffolk Deeds.) In a little over a tAvelve-month later, Mr. Benjamin Bronsdon'^ passed away. His death Avas unexpected, and took place in the house Avhere he was born and had lived for seventy-one years, doubtless as happily as com- monly falls to the lot of man. One sister. Madam Clark, outlived him, dying in 1762. They tAvo had for many years been the sole survivors of Robert Bronsdon's children. It was about this time that the Clark Mansion Avas sold to the Franklands. Benjamin Bronsdon d. intestate, Apr. 12, 1757, leaving a widoAv Eliza- beth, of Avhom Ave know nothing further, although the sale of the Bronsdon 70 PART I. :^Iaiision, aeferved until 1764, may indicate that slie died then. Both sons were absent, and lion. William Stoddard, the husband of the oldest daughter (Mercy), was appointed administrator, Apr. 28, 1757. The appraisers were three merchants : Nathaniel Greenwood, John Pimm and Robert Breck. (See Book 53, leaves 337-54, 547, Suffolk Probate Eeg.) • The Inventory is recorded in part. The '' Distribution " is missing. He left a '• ^Mansion house with all appurtenances," and another dwelling liouse and shop fronting on Ship Street. There were enumerated the comfortable and, for the times, elegant fur- nishings of his liome : pictures, books, china, plate, carpets (besides •' per- sonal property, not itemized, to the amount of £54," passed over to Mrs. "William Stoddard, who was the favored one in the distribution), and "one negro woman." The old Bronsdon clock, which in Pvobert Bronsdon's inventory was valued at £3, had increased to £8 in value. :Mr. Bronsdon had two tenants who paid rent — the Pvev. Mr. McClern- ochan and Elisha Doubleday. He owed no debts, except a mortgage on some real estate. Mr. Heath charged a shilling for shaving him after death. In 17G4, William Stoddard, as administrator, sold the Bronsdon home- stead to Willliam Page, at auction. Bronsdon Estate to Govge (Gooch). William Stoddard, Adm'", also sold house and land inventoried as " House and shop on Ship Street," to the heirs of Thomas Gouge, " painter- stainer." This was in reality half of a double house : the other half belonged to Thomas Kemble, who inherited it from Timothy Kemble, his father, who purchased it of William Clark. This was the Widow Bronsdon's home, and at her death it reverted to the Gale family. Mrs. Gale was a niece of Rob- ert Bronsdon, and lived in Broomham, Co. Wilts, England, but her son, Benjamin Gale, was in Boston. The Gales sold the property to Isaac Dickman, who sold to Clark. The half belonging to the Bronsdon estate was sold, as above stated, to Gouge, or Gooch, who made over the property to Thomas Kemble, so that Kemble then owned the whole; but evidently he bought to sell again, for soon we find that John Newell, cooper, bought of Thomas Kemble the east- erly end of said house, measuring eighteen feet on Whitebread Alley (Harris Street), more or less, together with the free use of the "stack of stairs" in the middle of the house, from garret to cellar. Newell sold to John White, baker, and on July 4, 1764, Mrs. Elizabeth Newell released her right of dower. The liouse is afterward traced to the ownership of John Brown, mer- chant, and in Dec, 1789, John Brown, Jr., and Elizabeth Brown quit-claimed BRONSDON FAMILY. 77 tlie premises to their niotlier, Ellen, and on Feb. 5, 1794, she sold the prop- erty to Joseph Hurd of Gharlestown. John Brown, Jr., purchased half a double house in Clark Street ; in the other half lived Miss "Betty" Bronsdon^, who owned it. They purchased at nearly the same time. One of the Bronsdon houses became the property of the Tudor family. It was from this family that Whitebread Alley derived its name, from the fact that Madam Tudor made and sold delicious white bread rolls, then a novel luxiiry. The early history of Boston, always interesting, becomes more so when one realizes that one's own ancestors were a part of those times. Their man- ners and customs, Avell studied, show us more plainly how they must have appeared. There is a pleasure in revisiting the localities they once fre- quented, although the North End is sadly tarnished and fallen upon evil days, but Copp's Hill, in summer time, is quaint and lovely still, with an enchanting flavor of antiquity, less disturbed, perhaps, by the bevies of small Italian youngsters, who delight to play among the tombs, than would be the case if they were not so utterly disconnected with everything but the present time. We feel alone with our recollections of a past of which they have no part nor understanding, and the voices of the chime bells of Christ Church, '' most musical, most melancholy," seem strangely eloquent of other days. Benjamin Bronsdon- lies buried in his tomb, which is Number One, Old Ground, Copp's Hill Burying Ground. He had the tomb built about 1717, or when that range was laid out. It is the present Bronsdon tomb, the oldest tomb having been sold by the heirs in 1811, after the reinoval of the remains of Eobert Bronsdon's family to this " new " tomb, which is very commodious. Close by are the family tombs of the Greenoughs and the Greenwoods, and further along on the Hull Street side is the Clark tomb, also that of the Bants, Mrs. Mary Bronsdon's father's family. The Bant tomb was num- bered seven, and now belongs to the heirs of Amos and Jedediah Lincoln, of whom the late revered ex-mayor of Boston, Frederic Walker Lincoln, was one. In answer to an inquiry as to whether his ancestors inherited or purchased the tomb, he replied that he did not know how it came into their possession. Tomb 119, in the oldest part of Copp's Hill, was the original tomb of Eobert Bronsdon. An inscription was placed on it by the Bronsdon heirs after the death of Miss Elizabeth Bronsdon, the last of his grandchildren, in 1810, as follows : " This Tomb belongs to the Heirs of Miss Elizabeth Bronsdon who departed this life March ^0, IS 10, , aged 82:' 78 PART I. This tomb was sold by the heivs to William Abrams of Boston, and now belongs in the family of Lorenzo Burge, late of Boston : for copy of deed of sale see (283) Mrs. Sarah B.* Curtis, born Bronsdon. The present Bronsdon family tomb is identified by the name ''Brons- don '' cut in the stone curbing on the Hull Street side. The original entrance to the tomb was long since demolished, and now the entrance is under ground, in the jiath on the Hull Street side. Interments in the tomb ceased about 1840, so far as known. In 1883 the interior of the tomb was in good order. There had been many burials there between 1717 and 1840, Sarah^ Dennis being the last. Here, at last, to this little Burial Ground on Copp's Hill, Boston, we come with our ancestor, Robert Bronsdon, and his children and most of his grandchildren, and even those of later generations. Whether, living, they had much or little, they now have a small and equal space in their last home. What really matters, affecting our lives to-day, were their mental and moral gifts and their solicitude, much or little, for their children's wel- fare. Herein is food for reflection. In a short space of time we, too, shall have passed away, and generations to come will weigh our actions and motives even as we now study those of our forefathers. BRONSDON FAMILY. 79 (187) Mercy Broxsdon^, (Bex.tamin^, Robt.^). m. first, John Frizzell, Jr., ) second, Joseph Wisp:, ^ all of Boston, third, HoK. Wm. Stoddard, ) Mercy Bronsdon' was the first-born child of (9) Benjamin and Mary (Bant) Bronsdon of Boston. She Avas b. Sept. 15, 1708, and was named in honor of her grandmother Bant. She m. first, John " Frizzell," Jr., "by Mr. Joshua Gee, Sept. 4, 1729 " ; second, " Joseph Wise and Mrs. Mercy Frizzell, Feb. 3, 1737, by Rev. Samuel Mather " ; third, " William Stoddard, Esq'', and Mrs. Mercy Wise, by Rev. William Welstead, Jan. 18, 1745." John Frizzell was the son of John and Jane Frizzell, who lived on Fleet Street, then Frizzell's Lane. They were persons of wealth and consequence. On the death of the elder Frizzell, his widow went to England (Weybridge^ County Surrey) to reside. John and Mercy lived at the homestead, corner of Fleet Street and Clark Square. After two happy years of married life,, Mercy was left a widow at the age of 23. Six years later she became the wife of Joseph Wise, son of the Rev. Joseph Wise. We do not know much of Mr. Wise ; there are no papers relating to the settlement of his estate. He was a merchant. He died in a few years, and if he made no will, Mercy may have had to part with a large portion of her property, as her husband's relations could claim it under those circumstances. Her third husband, William Stoddard, Esq., was a Justice of the Peace. He had children by a former wife ; John, Mary (m. William Bowes and has descendants in England and America), and perhaps others. No record of children of Mercy is found. Mr. Stoddard had charge of Mr. Benjamin Bronsdon's- estate. He died Sept. 7, 1775, aged 82 years, and Mercy did not marry again. She continued to reside in the Frizzell house. She was blessed with a competency, and her sister, and probably a niece, lived with her in comfort. She remembered about all of her Bronsdon relatives in her will, thereby enumerating all of the fourth generation. The will of her first husband, John Frizzell, is interesting to us, as showing the good will he bore his wife's relatives ; it also indicates his public spirit and love for learning. (For John Frizzell's Will, see No. 6146, Suffolk Probate Reg.) By it he bequeathed his entire estate " in possession and reversion to his Beloved Wife Marcy Frizzell," with the exception of £250 to Harvard Col- lege ; £100 to the Poor people of Boston ; £25 to Rev. William Welstead ; £40 to the Poor of the church ; £250 to his Aunt Dorothy Saltonstall ; a suit of mourning to their honored grandfather, Gilbert Bant ; £20 p'' anuum 80 PART 1. to his honored mother, Jane Frizzell ; suits of mourning to wife's father, and \\'illiam Bant. The date of the will is Aug. 20, 1731. Witnesses, Thomas Paick, James King and Samuel Tyley. Executors, Benjamin Brons- don and William Bant. In 1738, :Mercy having married Mr. Wise, brought suit against certain of the Frizzell family for the recovery of property belonging to her former husband, in which she was successful, being awarded £15,000, which, with wliat she already possessed, placed her among the wealthiest women of iMiston. She never left the Frizzell mansion, next the Old North Meeting House, until she was the widow of AVilliam Stoddard, in 1782, when she sold to Caleb Loring, distiller, and removed to a smaller house on the Friz- zell estate. Her death is recorded in the Columbian Centinel, and took place on a Sunday morning in November, 1786, at the age of 78 years. Her will is in Book 86, leaf 4, Suffolk Probate Ileg. In it she names the children of her brother, Capt. Bant Bronsdon, also her sister Elizabeth, and a Susan Damerill, whose identity has not been determined. It reads as follows: In the Name of God Amen. I Mercy Stoddard of Boston in the County of Suffolk and State of Massachusetts Bay in New England, Avidow, considering the uncertainty of human life and being though very weak and iiiHriu of body, of sound Disposing Mind & Memor}' Do Make and Publish this my last Will and testament in manner and forme following : viz' I commend my soul to the mercy of God my Saviour whenever it shall be separated from my body which I resign to the Tomb there to be decently interred at the discretion of my executrix hereinafter named. In hopes that this dying body shall in due time be raised a glorious and immortal body by the power of that Almighty God who first made it. And for such worldly estate which a kind Providence hath been pleased to bestow upon me after my just debts and funeral expenses are paid which I trust my faithful executrix will see done as soon as may be convenient after I am laid in the grave. I thus dispose thereof, viz' ; To John Box Bronsdon Fifteen pounds lawful money. To Benjamin Bronsdon Fifteen pounds lawful money. To P.ant Bronsdon Fifteen pounds laAvful money. To William Bronsdon Fifteen pounds lawful money. To Sarah Curtis, wife of Samuel Curtis Fifteen pounds lawful money. To Elizabeth Archer wife of Moses Archer Fifteen pounds lawful money. To Rel^ecca ]>ronsdon Fifteen pounds lawful money. To Susanna Damerill Fifteen pounds lawful money, and to their heirs forever. All of which sums are to be paid out of a Bond dated Oct. 19, 1782, owing to me from Caleb Loring, distiller, in Boston to whom I sold my Mansion House payable in seven years from that date which will be in the year of our Lord 1789. The inte^rest of said Bond to the time of pay- ment I Give and Devise together with all my Household furniture goods and chattels and whatever remainder of estate I may be possessed of or in any way interested in at the time of my decease whether said estate is real per- sonal or mixed I say I hereby freely give and devise the whole and every BRONSDON FAMILY. 81 part of it wherever it may be found to my Beloved Sister Elizabeth Bronsdon of Boston (except to the amount before devised of 120 pounds) . . . . and appoint the aforesaid Elizabeth Bronsdon to be my Executrix this IS*"^ Day of September, 178G. Signed and Acknowledged b}- Mkrcy Stoddard Witnessed by Samuel White, John Stoddard and Isaac Rand. The appraisers of the estate were Isaac Greenwood John Stoddard and John Stoddard, Jr. 32 PART I. (192) Benjamin Bronsdon^, Jr. (Benj.^, Robt.^). He was the sixth chikl and oldest surviving son of (9) Benjamin and Mary (Bant) Bronsdon, and was b. in Boston, Feb. 28, 1715. He was a "mariner," and finally resided permanently in England. He is thought to have been twice married, and to have had two children by the first wife and two by the second wife, but both family and public records are too deficient to confirm these suppositions with absolute certainty. His first wife was named Rand, and her ancestry is definitely known, but there is no record of a Rand-Bronsdon marriage in the new Rand Genealogy. The great-granddaughter of Benjamin Bronsdon^ Jr., Mrs. Sarah Holmes, is living in Lexington, at the age of 83 years. Her grandmother, Martha (Bronsdon) Eddy, did not die until 1830, and lived in the Getting family. jMrs! Holmes' parents were William and Sarah (Eddy) Getting ; therefore, Mrs. Holmes was in a position to know something of her grand- mother, whom, as she has informed us, was brought up by the Rand family, her maternal relatives; and she also told us where certain other descendants of the same family of Rands could be consulted. Accordingly, we obtained a statement from Mr. C. W. Jenks of Bedford, Mass., grandson of Jeremiah and Mary (Rand) Fitch, (Mary being the daughter of Robert Rand, b. Nov. 8, 1719; d. Feb., 1794; and Robert, in his turn, was son of Robert Rand, b. about 1686; m. Jan. 6, 1709, Susanna Cheever; d. Feb. 11, 1753. She d. Nov. 18, 1748. There were five Robert Rands in succession from the emigrant Robert, who settled in Lynn, and d. 1639-40. These were the maternal ancestors of IMartha Bronsdon, the daughter of Benjamin Brons- don's* first wife). Mr. Caleb Eddy, sou of Martha, left records concerning Robert Brons- don and children, which he could have obtained only from his mother. (See contribution to the Historical-Genealogical Register, vol. 35, p. 361, signed by Robert H. Eddy.) In 1755-6, a certain important large estate was conveyed by the Brons- dons, the Bant estate on Middle (Hanover) Street ; the purchaser, Hon. Ezekiel Golththwait, required quit-claim deeds from all the direct Bronsdon heirs. Benjamin Bronsdon^, Jr., was one of the parties, and his only sur- viving brother. Bant Bronsdon^, was another. The remaining heirs were daughters of Benjamin*, Sr. The children of the brothers of course did not sign these deeds. The supposition that Martha was daughter of Bant Bronsdon' is out of the question, since all Bant Bronsdon's® children are known and have always been known as an intimate part of family informa- BRONSDON FAMILY. 83 tion ; besides, Martha would not have made certain errors in giving the records of l>ant's children had she been Bant's daughter. Had she been Robert's child, it would have been necessary for her to sign a release of the estate, which, however, was expressly divided in " sixths," and every heir to every sixth portion named ; and the same is true supposing her to have been a daughter of Benjamin^, Sr. and Mary (Bant) Bronsdon ; she would in that case have given a separate deed ; but Mary (Bant) Bronsdon was over 50 years old when Martha was born, and Benjamin Bronsdon^, Sr., did not marry his second wife Elizabeth until 1752, while Martha was born in 1742. Consequently IMartha Bronsdon^ could have belonged in no other family than that of Benjamin Bronsdon*^, Jr. We have been particular in giving the steps by which we have arrived at this conclusion, as the absence of records and the entire loss of knowledge on the part of her descendants of her father's Christian name render it ad- visable that the proofs of her parentage should be duly presented. We have in several instances fixed upon probable facts by similar courses of reasoning, and to our great satisfaction found, later, positive records to confirm our own views. The second wife of Benjamin Bronsdon^ was Elizabeth Eoxcroft, a member of one of the most illustrious families in the colony. She was the daughter of Judge Francis Foxcroft of Cambridge. (See History of Cam- bridge.) The marriage took place Jan. 4, 1750 (intentions Dec. 13, 1749), and is recorded, but the printer made it " Brandon." However, we have a family record of the marriage, and further proof exists in the original will of Francis Foxcroft, Esq., in Middlesex Probate Registry (we have person- ally examined this will), wherein he bequeaths certain property in 17G5 to the two little daughters of his deceased daughter, Elizabeth Bronsdon. The writing, though small, is beautifully distinct. We have obtained no further trace of these children, and they may have accompanied their father to England if they survived. There is on record a will of Henry Bronsdon, "mariner," probated in Boston, 1784, which leaves all to wife Sarah; no mention of children. This widow Bronsdon is supposed to be that Sarah who later married William Vibberd. Henry's parentage is unknown, but probabilities are that he was a son of Benjamin Bronsdon^, Sr., and of his sec- ond wife. The Boston records of the middle of the 18th century are very deficient. The destruction of the records in the Town House in 1747, and the confusion consequent upon the Revolutionary War, had the effect of sweeping away a mass of valuable information, the lack of which is con- stantly felt. Benjamin Bronsdon^, Jr., inherited considerable property from his uncle, William Bant, also from his grandfather Bant. (See their wills in Appendix I.) 84 PAKT I. Previous to his father's death, his name occasionally appears m deeds of conveyance, and in 1741 he joined the oldest Lodge of Free Masons m America, the records of which have been printed. His name is recorded on the book's of the Lodge as Benjamin -'Brimsdon." Martlia, the daughter of his first wife, was taken m charge by her mother's people, and Benjamin permitted her to remain with them after hiS marriage to Miss Foxcroft, and thus she was not carried to England. As it may be asked how we know that Benjamin Bronsdon^ Jr., removed to England, we here state that it was a positive affirmation of Mrs. Hannah Allen that her great uncle, Benjamin, stayed in England (or as she phrased it "Father's old Uncle Ben"). Mrs. Allen was the daughter of John Box Bronsdon. Phinehas Bronsdon^ (John BoxS Bant^ Benj.^. Robt.^) also made the same assertion to his daughter, who repeated it to the writer. In his youth, John Box Bronsdon^ visited this uncle Benjamin in England (or his family, as we are not clear in regard to the length of time he survived). The Hands and Bronsdons were connected by marriage and friendship in other directions. Hannah Hurry was a Hett, and married for her second husband a Rand of Charlestown. The Hetts were near relatives of Robert Bronsdon's second wife, if indeed she was not a Hett herself. Isaac Rand witnessed Miss Betty Bronsdon's will. Sally Rand appeared in the Brons- don families in times of illness, etc., as we find on record. It is interesting, too, to note that Martha Eddy, sister-in-law to Martha (Bronsdon) Eddy, m. 1765, Matthew Grice, and that one of the wives of Robert Rand, 5th, was also a Martha Grice. (204) Martha Bkonsdon* (Benj., Jk.^ Benj., SR.^ Robert^). [For proofs of birth and parentage, see foregoing pages.] Martha Bronsdon* was b. in Boston, Nov. 11, 1742 ; m. Nov. 10, 1763, Capt. Benjamin Eddy, who was b. in Boston, Feb. 19, 1743, and was son of Caleb and Martha (Marks) Eddy. He d. at West Cambridge (now Arlington), Aug. 11, 1817 ; his wife d. at the residence of her son-in-law, William Cotting, West Cambridge, Dec. 28, 1830, and both Mr. and Mrs. Eddy are interred in the Cotting tomb at that place. The grand-daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eddy sent us the Eddy Genealogy, by Robert Henry Eddy, who died about twelve years ago in Boston, in order that we might use extracts from its pages. The late discovery of this branch of Bronsdon descendants has prevented ns from bringing all the famihes up to date, as we should like to have done. AVe shall be glad to receive further informa- tion regarding the descendants of those mentioned herein. BRONSDON FAMILY. 85 Ch ihlren of Martha (Bronsdon) and Benjamin Eddy : (205) i. Martha^ Edihj, b. in Boston, July 24, 1764 ; m. Z. Jennings. See below. (206) ii. Man/ Eddy, b. July 22, 1766 ; m. Dr. E. Morse. See below. (207) iii. Hannah^ Eddy, b. July 11, 1768; m. L. Bemis. See below. (208) iv. Sarah^ Eddy, b. Aug. 11, 1770 ; d. Sept. 11, 1778. (209) V. Charlotte^ Eddy, b. Mcar. 16, 1773 ; d. Mar. 21, 1773. (210) vi. Bobert Band^ Eddy, b. Mar. 18, 1774 ; d. Sept. 13, 1778. (211) vii. Eunice^ Eddy, b. Oct. 11, 1776 ; d. July 17, 1796. (212) viii. Sarah' Eddy, b. May 17, 1779; d. Nov. 29, 1848; m. W. Cot- ting. See below. (213) ix. Bobert BajuP Eddy, b. Aug. 25, 1781 ; d. June 20, 1796. (214) X. Caleb'' Eddy, b. May 27, 1784 ; d. Feb. 22, 1859 ; m. Caroline Gay. See below. Biography. (204) Mrs. Martha (Bronsdon) Eddy was a treasure to her husband, himself a good husband and an affectionate father, and possessed of the qualities of a true Christian. She was a woman of great energy and perse- verance, and beloved by all who knew her. During the siege of Boston, she was driven out by the British and, with a few dollars, sought shelter with her five children in Needham. There she remained until joined by her husband, who, after having his ship captured by the English, was thrown into prison at Halifax, IST.S., and, with several others, escaped and traveled on foot by land to Needham. At 19 years of age, he had commenced a sea-faring life, and had shortly arisen to the command of a vessel in the West India trade. In 1776, the Eddy family removed to Shrewsbury, where Mr. Eddy kept a store, and also acquired considerable land. After conclusion of the war, he became interested in and commanded packets in the London trade. In 1804, he purchased an estate in Waltham, Mass., Avhieh, a short time before his death, he sold, and removed to West Cambridge, where his married daughter, Mrs. Sarah Cotting, lived. Martha, his widow, continued to reside with the Cotting family until her death in 1830. (See Eddy Gen.) (205) Martha^ Eddy (Martha*, Benj.^, Benj.^, Robt. Bronsdon^). Martha^ Eddy was b. July 24, 1764; d. at Rochester, N.Y., Dec. 7, 1846; m. Nov. 20, 1799, Dr. Zachariah Jennings; b. in Maine, res. at Cherry Valley, N.Y., and at Rochester, N.Y. He was ^n eminent surgeon. He served as surgeon on board the U. S. S. Constitution, so famous in historv. gg PART I. Children : (215) i. Harriet^ Jennings, b. 1801; d. single, in Salem, at an advanced age. (216) ii Eunice Ecld if Jennings, b. Mar. 17, 1803, in Fitzwilliam, X. H. ; m in West Cambridge, Mass., Apr. 11, 1823, John C. Stevens, wiio Avas b. in Boston, Dec. 20, 1798. She d. Dec. 12, 1881, and Mr. Stevens d. Apr. 12, 1884. Mrs. Stevens was possessed of courage and fortitude to a remarkable degree, and was a most estimable woman. When quite young, she would wait upon her father while he performed surgical operations. Children : (217) i. Benj. Eddy'' Stevens, b. Jan. 4, 1824 ; d. Apr. 18, 1879, in New York; m. Nov. 1, 18pO, Caro- lin'e' Campbell, b. Aug. 7, 1832, who now res. at Evanston, 111. Children : (218) i. Lucy Della^ Stevens, b. July 2, 1831 ; d. Aug. 20, 1852. (219) ii. Harriet E} Stevens, b. Mar. 27, 1853; m. Lau- rence Pomroy, and res. in Evanston, 111. (220) iii. Mary Erancis^ Stevens, res. in Evanston, 111. (221) iv. John CaldweW Stevens, b. Sept. 30, 1856; d. Mar. 16, 1860. (222) V. Sarah C} Stevens, b. Feb. 17, 1860 ; d. Mar. 8, 1876. (223) ii. Eunice C' Stevens, h. in Boston, Sept. 10, 1826 ; m. May 9, 1850, Levant L. Mason of Buffalo, N.Y. Now res. at Jamestown, N.Y. Children : (224) i. Joh7i C. Stevens^ Mason, b. in Jamestown, N.Y., Oct. 5, 1851 ; m. Caroline Mason. (225) ii. Eunice C.^ Mason, b. July 30, 1855 ; m. Oct. 23, 1878, Henry S. Penfield of Chicago, 111. They have four children : Augusta E., Theodora C, Eunice M., and Levant Mason Penfield, all living at Jamestown, N.Y. (226) iii. Lucy H.^ Mason, m. Frederick P. Hall, and has four sons : Henry M., Levant M., Frederic and Charles E. Hall. (227) iii. Lucy 0? Stevens, b. in Rochester, N.Y., Jan. 17, 1827 ; m. May 11, 1852, to James Dow of Jamestown, N.Y. , Children, four in number : Eunice E., Levant M., James and James A. Dow ; they all d. young. Mrs. Dow res. in Rochester, K.Y. BRONSDON FAMILY. 87 (228) iv. Jrarrh't E? Stevens, d. young. (229) V. Sarah Caroline^ Stevens, b. in Eochester, N.Y., Aug. 28, 1842; m. Oct. 23, 1872, Joseph Twyman of Chicago, 111. Children : (230) i. Luc]/ Bosetta^ Twyman, b. Jan. 21, 1874. ( ii. Levant Mason^ Ttvyman, b. June 27, 1877 : d. r23n J Aug., 1877. ^^ ^ ] iii. Vernon Montefiore^ Twyman, b. June 27, 1877; [ d. Jan., 1878. (232) iv. Josephine Nathalie^ Twyman, b. Apr. 19, 1880 ; m. Jan. 30, 1901, Lewis Chapin Babcock of Montana. Note. Thanks to Mrs. Twyman for family records, also corrections of Eddy records. (306) Mary^ Eddy (Martha*, Benj.^ Benj.", Robt. Bronsdon^). She was b. July 22, 1766 ; d. Apr. 25, 1800; m. Sept. 24, 1786, Dr. Eliakim Morse (b. Feb. 14, 1759; d. Jan. 7, 1858). Mrs. Morse had the reputation of great personal beauty. She survived to the great age of 99 yrs. Her descendants inherited the portraits of Martha (Bronsdon) Eddy and her husband. Children — (two d. young) : (233) i. John^ Morse, b. Feb. 12, 1789; d. May 7, 1817; m. Frances H. Torrey, and had : (234) i. John Torrey'' Morse, b. Mar. 26, 1813 ; m. Lucy Cabot Jackson, and had : (235) i. John T} Morse, Jr., m. Fannie Hovey, and had two sons : i. Cahot^ Morse. ii. Torrey^ Morse. (234«) ii. Benjamin Eddip Morse, b. Feb. 22, 1814. (235a) iii. Sam.nel Torrey'' Morse, b. May 9, 1816 ; m. Har- riet Jackson Lee, and had : i. Francis R.^ Morse. ii. Henry L.^ Morse. iii. Mary L.^ Morse. (236) iv. Charles J.'' Morse. (237) V. E. Rollins'' Morse, m. Mary Steedman. 88 PAKT I. (207) Hannah* Eddy (Martha^ Bknj.^ Benj.^, Robert Bronsdon^). Third child of (194) Martha" and Benjamin Eddy, was b. July 11, 1768, in Boston.; d. Mar. 31, 1837, at Chicopee, Mass. ; m. Luke Bemis of Water- town ; b. Oct. 11, 1759 : d. in Springfield, Feb. 16, 1845. Children : (238) i. Robert Eddif Bemis, b. June 4, 1798, at Watertown ; d. at Chic- opee, Mar. 15, 1873 ; m. Sept. 18, 1827, Martha Wheatland of Salem, and had : (239) i. Robert Wheatland'' Bemis, b. July 30, 1828; m. Nov. 26, 1852, Rachael Z. Smith, and lived at Chicopee. Had six children. (See Eddy Gen.) (240) ii. Caroline Eddif Bemis, b. at Salem, June 12, 1830. (241) iii. Marij Wheatland'' Bemis, b. Aug. 6, 1838; m. Jan. 30, 1879, Henry Martin Whitney, and res. at No. Andover. (242) iv. Sarah Davis'' Bern is, h. Apr. 3, 1841 ; m. Jerome H. Fisk. (243) V. Martha Goodhue' Bemis, b. June 10, 1844 : m. Jas. G. Smith of Chicopee, and had : i. Robrrt Bnnis^ Smith, b. Nov. 29, 1865. ii. James iJ/.» S»iith, b. Sept. 12, 1867. (244) ii. Mart/ Eddif Bemis, b. July 4, 1801; m. Apr. 9, 1827, Benjamin Wheatland of Salem, who d. Dec. 28, 1854, and she d. June 23, 1864. Children : i. Martha G? Wheatland, b. at Newmarket, N. H., Mar. 12, 1828. ii. Elizabeth B? Wheatland, d. young. (245) iii. Luke'' Bemis, Jr., b. Apr. 7, 1806; m. Apr. 7, 1831, first, Eliza- beth Lincoln; second wife, Maria Stubbs ; third wife, Lucy A. Thayer. Has descendants : (246) i. Clara Frances'' Bemis, b. June 23, 1852 ; m. Jan. 24, 1878, Barton D. Evans, and had at Westchester, Pa. : i. Elizabeth Bemis^ Evans, b. Feb. 7, 1879. ii. Arthur Webster'' Bemis, b. Nov. 18, 1862. BRONSDON FAMILY. 89 (313) Sarah^ Eddy (Martha*, Benj.^, Benj.'^, Robert Brojtsdon^). She was the eiglith child of (194) Martha and Benjamin Eddy, tlie four children preceding her having d. yonng. She was b. May 17, 1779 ; m. Jan. 21, 1810, William Cotting, Esq., who was b. July 26, 1775, and d. Oct. 23, 1861. He was bur. from the Unitarian Church at Arlington. Mrs. Cotting d. Nov. 29, 1848. Children — (the first d. young) : (247) i. Benjamin Edchf Cotting, b. Nov. 2, 1812; m. Oct. 5, 1843, Cath- erine Greene Sayer. He d. at Roxbury, May 22, 1897, aged 83 yrs. 6 raos. 2 d. ; bur. at Forest Hill. Dr. Cotting was an eminent physician, president of the Mass. Med. Soc, curator of the Lowell Inst., etc. Mrs. Cotting d. while on a journey to California. They left no children. ' (248) ii. Martha Eddif Cotting, b. Apr. 2, 1814 ; m. May 24, 1838, Miles Teel Gardner. She d. at Rochester, N.Y., INlar. 17, 1854. Children : (249) i. William Allies' Gardner, b. Sept. 1, 1839; d. May, 1850. (250) ii. Catherine Cutting' Gardner, b. Mar. 26, 1850 ; d. Jan. 6, 1869. (251) iii. Marg Caroline^ Cotting, b. July 22, 1816; d. Nov. 24, 1820. (252) iv. Sarah Maria Wellington^ Cotting, b. i\Iar. 3, 1818 ; m. Aug. 28, 1849, Dr. Howland Holmes of Lexington (b. Jan. 16,1815; d. Nov. 16, 1893, and son of Howland and Huldah (Copeland) Holmes; m. Nov. 9, 1804). Dr. Holmes d. in his carriage when returning from visiting his patients. He was for fifty years a physician in Lexington, Mass. Children : (253) i. Maria Eddif Holmes, b. Aug. 14, 1850 ; d. aged 1 day. (254) ii. Carrie Marie'' Holmes, b. Apr. 3, 1852; d. Jan. 21, 1857. (255) iii. Francis Howland'' Holmes, b. Sept. 13, 1853. (256) iv. Sarah Eddif Holmes, b. Sept. 15, 1855. (257) V. Charlotte Bronte' Holmes, b. Apr. 20,1857; d. Feb. 25, 1865. (258) V. William Wallace^ Cotting, b. Apr. 21, 1820; m. Dec. 22,1840, Elmira Pierce. He d. at Melrose, Jan. 25, 1870 ; she d. at Boston, Sept. 3, 1866, aged 44. Children — (three d. in infanc}', six others are here given) : 90 PART I. (259) i. George Pierce' Cotting, b. Apr. 17, 1841; d. in Civil War. (2G0) ii. Frederic Bronsdon' Cotting, b. Dec. 22, 1846 d. Aug. 22, 1888 ; has three sons living : (261) i. W. Henri/ Cotting. (262) ii. Walter M.^ Cotting of Winchester, Mass. (263) iii. Charles Burton^ Cotting of West Kewton. (264) iii. Edirard Levant Cotting, b. Apr. 2, 1849, res. in Boston. Has children : (265) i. Edtvard^ Cotting. (266) ii. James A.^ Cotting. (267) iii.. George^ Cotting. (268) iv. Elizabeth Harriet'' Cotting, h. Dec. 6, 1855 ; m. Orestes M. Pratt of Lowell. Children: (269) i. Catherine^ Pratt, b. July 16, 1890. (270) \\.' Marshall Cotting^ Pratt, b. Oct. 12, 1891. . (271) V. Ellen Elmira'' Cotting, b. Mar. 13, 1858; m. Henry E. Osborne of Xew Washington, N. H., and d. at Grassmere, N. H., Aug. 9, 1899. Children : (272) i. Florence Loiiise^ Oshorne, b. May 11, 1882; m. Frank Chase of Pennacook, N. H. (273) ii. Louise Carr^ Osborne, b. Dec. 18, 1886. (274) iii. Harry Ernest^ Cnborne, b. Apr. 26, 1890. (275) vi. Fannie Louise' Cotting. b. Jan. 3, 1860; m. Arthur R. Pitts of Newton Upper Palls, and have dau. : (276) i. Elmira Cotting' Pitts, b. Jan. 23, 1885. Memoranda. Bertha 0., wife of Walter M.^ Cotting, d. at Melrose, Nov., 1896, aged 24 yrs. . (214) Caleb^ Eddy (Martha^ Benj.^, Bexj.^, Robt. Bronsdok^). He Avas the tenth child of (194) Martha^ and Benjamin Eddy, and was b. in Shrewsbury, May 27, 1784 ; d. at Chicopee, Feb. 22, 1859 ; m. Sept 30, 1810, Caroline, dau. of Timothy Gay. (See Eddy Gen.) She d. May 28, 1862, and with her husband is bur. at Mount Auburn. Caleb Eddy was a merchant in Boston, alderman for two years, and agent of the Middlesex Canal. He was much interested in Genealogy, and left voluminous data, from which his son, R. H. Eddy, compiled the Eddy BRONSDON FAMILY. 91 Genealog3^ He also left some information in writing concerning his Brons- don ancestor, which is published in Vol. 35 of the N. E. Hist, and Gen. Register. Caleb Eddy, son of a Bronsdon mother, was of a rarely beautiful coun- tenance. (See his portrait in the Eddy Gen., p. 204.) On looking at his like- ness, we thought it resembled the mental image we had formed of Robert Bronsdon. It can be seen at 18 Somerset Street, Boston (Genealogical Rooms). Caleb and Caroline (Gay) Eddy left two sons : (277) i. Robert Henrtf Edd,/, b. Sept. 27, 1812. (278) ii. Benjamin^ Eddy, h. Jan. 26, 1829. (277) Robert Henry « Eddy, was b. Sept. 27, 1812 ; d. about 1888 ; m. Dec. 24, 1851, Annie G. Pickering, who d. in 1900 at her home on Marl- borough Street, Boston. She could give nothing more of the Bronsdon ancestry. Mr. Eddy was a Civil Engineer, and, later. Solicitor of Patents. He was made a "Fellow of the Royal Historical Society of Great Britain." In 1884, he published the Eddy Genealogy. (278) Benjamin^ Eddy was b. Jan. 26, 1829, now living (1901) at Groton, Mass. ; m. Nellie M., dau. of George Weld of Jamaica Plain, Mass. (See Eddy Gen.) Children : (279) i. Charles Benjamin' Eddy. (280) ii. Minnie Caroline'' Eddy. (281) iii. Kellie Isabella'' Eddy. 92 PART I. (19G) Bant BRONSDO^I^ Sr. (Beicjamin^, Robt.^). [Known as Capt. Bant Bronsdon. Through Bant Bronsdon^ only was continued the name of Bronsdon in America. See also Part II (B 2.)] (196) Bant Bronsdon was b. iu Boston, Oct. 23, 1721. He was the tenth child of (9) Benjamin and Mary (Bant) Bronsdon and grandson of Capt. Gilbert and Mercy (Whitwell) Bant. He m. , 1750, Elizabeth, dan. of John and Lydia (Story) Box of Boston. The family record contain- ing dates of l>ant and his wife has been lost. Family tradition says Capt. liant lironsdon died away from home about 1765, and Elizabeth died before 1790. There is no record of real estate in Boston belonging to Bant Brons- don^ except his interest in the Bant estate, which he deeded to Ezekiel Goldthwait in 1756. Children, recorded in books of King's Chapel : (282) i. John Box Bronsdon'^, b. May 21, 1751 ; bapt. Sept. 8, 1751 ; m. Abigail Baker ; settled in Milton, Mass. See below. C283) ii. Sarah Bant Bronsdon'^, b. , 1753 ; m. Capt. Samuel Curtis of Boston. See beloAv. (284) iii. Rebecca Bronsdon'^, bapt. Aug. 31, 1755 ; m. Capt. Joseph Dennis of Boston. See below. (285) iv. BcnjaDihi Brovsdoji*, bapt. Oct. 23, 1757; m. first, Sally Knee- land; second, Patty Farrar; settled in Milton. See below. (286) V. Bant Bronsdon*, bapt. Jan. 30, 17G0; m. first, Mary ; second, Deborah Jackson ; res. in Boston. See below. (287) vi. WUUam Bronsdon^ b. ,1761; bapt. Mar. 10, 1762 ; m. Kuth llich ; rem. to Worcester Co., INIass. See below. (288) vii. Elizaheth Bro7isdon\ b. ; bapt. Sept. 5, 1764; m. Moses Archer of Boston. Note. Descendants of these now living remember having seen an old Bronsdon " Family Tree" which is now " missing." The marriage of Capt. Bant Bronsdon to Elizabeth Box is proved by a reference to the Will of her father, John Box, who died 1774. . The portrait of Capt. lU-onsdon belonged to his oldest son, John Box Bronsdon, whose daughter, Mrs. Hannah Allen, left it to her descendants. The old chair belonged iu the family of a grandson of John Box Bronsdon, who disposed of it a few years ago, but not until a sketch had been made by one interested in heirlooms. Mr. Phineas Bronsdon of Milton clearly stated to his daughter (now living) that the chair belonged to his grand- father I*>ronsdon, who brought it from England. The chair was of birch wood and beautifully hand carved and very quaint. The cane work in the seat and back was exceedingly fine and close. I'.oth Bant Bronsdon^ and his brother Benjamin^ followed the sea. (I961CAPT. BANT BRONSDON- b. Oct. 23. i 721; m ELIZABETH BOX. BRONSDON FAMILY. 93 As they were mariners, they took but a small part in the affairs of the towns they cl5,imed as home, yet they contributed in no small degree to the pros- perity of such by the part they had in building up and maintaining com- mercial relations with other countries. Capt. Bronsdon's wife, Elizabeth Box, was of good family and had been reared with care. Her parents lived first on Cambridge Street, where the present Eevere House now stands, and there ?]]izabeth was born, probably, in the house which had been her grandfather Elisha Story's, and which then belonged to her father in right of Lydia (Story) his wife, co-heir with William Story, the noted Crown oiBcer. Later the Box family removed to a new mansion-house on Beacon Hill and were living there when Bant and Elizabeth were married. They occupied a house which stood on the spot afterward covered by the reservoir and later by the State House annex. This fact rests upon the assertion of more than one of the children of John Box Bronsdon, who were cognizant of their father's birthplace, <' the corner of Hancock and Derne Streets." William Bant, the uncle of Capt. Bant Bronsdon, died in 1754, and Ezekiel Goldthwait purchased the Bant residence, corner of Blackstone and Cross Streets. As the heirs of Mrs. Mary (Bant) Bronsdon owned each a sixth of this estate, we find their deeds of conveyance to Mr. Goldthwait on record. The brothers, Bant and Benjamin, conveyed their shares, but at differ- ent times, when they arrived in port from foreign parts. Bant's conveyance reads as follows: and is dated Jan. 23, 1756. "Bant Bronsdon, mariner, one of the children of Benjamin Bronsdon and Mary lately deceased (Oct. 6, 1751) for £50 sold to Ezekiel Goldthwait, gentleman, his sixth part in land and houses now occupied by Rev. Ellis Gray on Middle Street 101 feet front, to the brick house of Capt. IS'icholas Cossens which he bought of William Bant, 69 feet easterly, on Edward Dumaresq 23 feet northerly, on land of Ezekiel Needham and others 90 feet easterly, on Philip Viscount and others 60 feet, and southerly on John Cookson and others 82 feet." Wife Elizabeth releases her right of dower in the same. (Book 88, leaf 20, Suffolk Deeds.) The other five-sixths were conveyed by Mrs. Mercy Stoddard and her husband (William Stoddard), Mary, Elizabeth and Rebecca Bronsdon, single women, and Benjamin Bronsdon and wife Elizabeth (Fox- croft). These comprised the entire family of the fourth generation children of Benjamin Bronsdon^ who with his second wife, Elizabeth, signed off whatever right they might have been supposed to derive through Mary (Bant) the first wife of Benjamin. It is a singular coincidence that the father and both his sons should have wives named Elizabeth. This gave rise to the idea that Benjamin Bronsdon^ m. Elizabeth Foxcroft, on the part of some of the descendants ; but Benjamin, Jr., and Elizabeth Foxcroft's 94 PART I. marriage is recorded as taking place in 1750, and Benjamin, Sr., was not a widower until October, 1751. • (19G) Capt. Bant Bronsdon" had, at the time he conveyed his share of the Bant estate, three children. His brother Benjamin^ had children also. Afterward four more children were born to Capt. Bant and Elizabeth. Bronsdon, and the Bronsdon race, which had constantly tended to diminish until the sons had narrowed to one or two in each generation, now received a fresh impetus in the four sons of l^ant Bronsdon^ Of the daughters, we will state what is known of Rebecca and Elizabetb in this place. (284) Rebecca Bronsdon^ (Bant^ Benj.^, Robt.^), bapt. at King's Chapel iu 1755 ; m. Sept. 20, 1787, Capt. Jos. Dennis of Boston, and lived in Green Lane or Salem Street until invited to reside with Miss Elizabeth Bronsdon^ on Clark Street. Miss Bronsdon, her aunt, made Rebecca her heir. Capt. Dennis d. in Milton, July 20, 1830, aged 78. Mrs. Dennis d. in Boston, Oct. 14, 1826, of a fever, aged 71. One daughter, Sarah B. Dennis, d. about 1840, and was buried with her parents in the Bronsdon tomb at Copp's Hill. She never married. ]Srr. John G. Loring settled her estate. (288) Elizabeth Bronsdon^ b. in 1763; bapt. at King's Chapel, 1764, was also a daughter of (196) Capt. Bant Bronsdon and Elizabeth (Box). She m. Sept. 1, 1781, :Moses Archer, a boot and shoe maker, who lived on Adams Street in 1787. They had children, one of whom married a Nixon, and removed to New York City, but as the birth records of Boston are missing from 1800 until 1849, we cannot give the names of the Archer descendants. We have no date of death, still "Aunt" Archer is remembered by some of the oldest members of our family. The Archers attended the Second Bap- tist Church of l^oston. (202) Elizabeth Bronsdon^ (Benj.*^, Robt.^). (202) Elizabeth Bkonsdoi^s, b. Feb., 1729 ; d. Feb. 10, 1810 ; was the dau. of (9) Benjamin^ and Mary (Bant) Bronsdon, and was one of seventeen children, all of whom she survived, dying at the age of 81 years. Her funeral is announced in the Boston Patriot of Feb. 12, 1810 (a copy of which is preserved by Mr. C. W. Parker). "Died. Miss Elizabeth Bronsdon aged 81. Her Funeral will proceed from her late dwelling house in Clark Street to morrow at 4-oclock to which her friends and relatives are respectfully invited without further notice." Mr. I. J. Greenwood writes: "The Intimacy between the Greenwoods and the lironsdons was kept up until the death of Miss Betty Bronsdon in 1810." CARVED BEECH-WOOD CHAIR THAT BELONGED TO CAPT, BANT BRONSDON' BRONSDON FAMILY. 95 Dec. 4, 1794. Daniel Austin sold to Elizabeth Bronsdon, single woman, for 480 pounds, a house in Clark Street, being <'half a double house contain- ing front room, entry, stairway, kitchen, cellar-kitchen, 2 chambers on the second floor and two on the third floor." At the same time John Brown bought the other half of the house, having sold his share of a property on Whitebread Alley (the old Widow Bronsdon house in fact) a few months before. We have now come to a time when family recollection and reminiscence begins to assume a more definite form. Before this Genealogy was ever dreamed of, the writer had heard of '' Father's old aunt in Clark Street," of her house full of relics, of her family portraits, her pride of birth and her hospitality. We can feel that Aunt Betty was a real personage, whom it was a joy to visit. Mrs. Hannah^ (Bronsdon) Allen, who died in Dorchester, May 8, 1881, at the age of 88 years, was "quite a slip of a girl " when her great-aunt Betty died, and Mr. Phineas Bronsdon^ was 20 years old. These two sometimes spoke of her, and all the Bronsdons continued to visit at her house after it came into possession of their sister, Mrs. Rebecca* Dennis, until her death in 1826. We have wandered through Clark Street, scrutinizing the time-worn houses as we went, in a vain endeavor to identify the Betty Bronsdon house. An old tax list describes it as having "3 stories and 10 windows on the front." " Hannah Crocker " lived next door. Possibly it set back from the street, and the land in front has been built upon. The house was sold Aug. 9, 1831, to Isaac Rhoades (see Book 354, leaf 67, Suffolk Deeds) by Charles Farrar Bronsdon^ as guardian of Sarah Dennis^ Miss Elizabeth Bronsdon's will is a model of brevity and directness. It is to be found in Suffolk Probate Registry, Book 202, leaf 34, and is as follows : Will of Elizabeth Bronsdon^ " I, Elizabeth Bronsdon, of sound mind but weak body, considering the uncertainty of life do make my will. I commit my soul to God who gave it. I wish to be buried in a frugal manner and my just debts paid. To Kinswoman Rebeckah Dennis and her husband, Joseph Dennis, mariner, for their kind and constantly affectionate care and attention to me while they have resided with me during a long and distressing sickness, namely, my mansion-house situated in Clark Street, North End with all the land and buildings annexed and well and pump privilege which was pur- chased of William Prout of Newburyport during his life time, they keeping said house in good repair to pass to their daughter Sarah at their death, to her and hers forever. (Signed) Elizabeth Bronsdon. Witnessed by Isaac Rand, Henry Fowle and Thomas Ares." The personal property was not included in this bequest. 96 PART I. Samuel Blagge, Esq., George Miles, merchants, and Joseph Dennis, mariner, gave bonds to the amount of $10,000, and Judge Davis appointed Mr. Blagge, administrator, Mar. 26, 1810. The house on Clark Street Avas appraised at $2,958.45. Tomb in the North Burying Ground, $100. Silver plate valued at about $60 included silver bowl, silver cup, silver sugar bowl and cream pot, silver porringer, tablespoons, dessertspoons and teaspoons, silver snuff box, etc., besides jewelry and wearing apparel, china and glassware and various articles of furniture. Nothing is said of family portraits, of which she is known to have possessed a iiunil)er. That of her brother, Bant Bronsdon^, was in the possession of his son, John Box Bronsdon^, and is reproduced for this work. iMrs. Stoddard had the portrait of their grandmother, Mrs. Mercy Bant, and willed it to her sister, Elizabeth. Capt. Gilbert Bant's portrait became the proi)erty of his grandson, William Bant, who died without children, and, his widow marrying again, all trace of the portrait was lost. Neither can Mercy Bant's portrait be found. It is supposed that the Curtis family had it and passed it on to the Brooks family. (See history of Mrs. Sarah Bant Bronsdon, m. Curtis.) These portraits may now, if not destroyed, be mas- querading under false names among strangers. The Oldest Bronsdon Tomb, No. 119, Copp's Hill. In Suffolk Deeds, Book 237, leaf 130, we find the estate of Elizabeth Bronsdon, grantor to William Abrams, "Tomb in Old North Burying Ground " (Copp's Hill). This was the original tomb which belonged to Robert Bronsdon, the present Bronsdon tomb. No. 1, Old Ground, Copp's Hill Burying Ground, having been constructed by Mr. Benjamin Bronsdon^, Robert's son, in 1717. This second tomb is very large. Miss Betty had the bodies removed from the old into the new tomb. The Abramses were Old North Church people. Curtis to Abrams. [See No. 283, Sarah Bant Bronsdon.] "Know all men by these presents that I, Sarah Curtis, of Boston, co. of Suffolk, Massachusetts, widow in consideration of the sum of ninety dol- lars to me paid by William Abrams of Boston co. of Suffolk and state of Massachusetts, grocer, the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge do hereby grant, sell and convey to said William Abrams a certain Tomb set on or near the center of the Old North Burying Ground the same which formerly belonged to the estate of Elizabeth Bronsdon deceased (1810). To Have and To Hold . . . and I do hereby covenant with the said William Abrams that I am lawfully seized in fee of the above granted BRONSDON FAMILY. 97 premises that they are free of all incumbrance that I liave a good right to sell and convey the same .... In Witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this 2nd day of May 1811. ^ (Signed) Sarah Curtis. In presence of Bakt Bronsdon. William Taylor." 98 PART I. (283) Sarah Bant Bronsdos* (Baxt*, Bknm.-. B.ibt.*). [See also (B. 12), Part II.] (283) Sarah Baxt Broxsdox^ was the oldest chuigiiier una second cliild of (196) Capt. Bant Bronsdon^ and Elizabeth (Box), and was b. , 1753. While the baptism of her oldest brother, John liox Bronsdon, is found in the King's Chapel records, hers is not, so that possibly she was not born in Boston. She m. Apr., 1777, Capt. Samnel Cuktis of Boston, who d. Dec, 1800, aged 51 j-ears. She d. Apr. L'l. I.s2('., of dropsy, and was interred in the Bronsdon Tomb, Xo. 1, Cojip's Hill, " Old Ground." Her husband was also buried there ; and a few months after her own death, this tomb received the remains of Mrs. Rebecca Dennis, a sister of Mrs. Curtis. Our records are imperfect concerning the family of Mrs, Curtis, than whom not one of the great aunts is better remembered or more highly revered. As John Box Bronsdon tilled the place of father and brotlier to his orphaned brothers and sisters, so did Sarah act a mother's part to them. As John Box Bronsdon kept " o}ien house*' in Milton, so did she in Boston, with this difference, her home was the abt>de of elegant lux- ury. Her husband had brought from abroad rare objects of art and curi- osity. Her table service was a set of china, made especially for them, and decorated with the Curtis monogram. She had also collected and atwjuired most of the heirlooms and relics, which were her ancestors' — plate, portraits, furniture, and family papers. She resided in Pitts Street in a dignitied and commodious mansion, the front door of Avhich was decorated with a resplendent brass knocker. Ifer personality commanded respect, and her amiability won all hearts. She had a summer residence in Milton, Mass., very near her brother Benjamin's house. The care-takers were two old family servants, colored people, named '' Jerry" and '< Marey Derry.'' The Curtis family maintained these old retainers, who had been slaves in the liox and Hoskins families, until they died. They had a daughter, <' Silvie " Derry, who at one time lived with (300) :Mrs. Loring (Eliz. Bronsdon'*). It is remembered that '-Aunt Curtis" had at least four children, and we find a trace of two of them on the records : (289) i. Samuel' Curtis, bapt. Dec. 14, 1788, at the Brattle Street Church. (290) ii. George Bronsdon^ Curtis, d. Nov. 7, 1700. Interred in Tomb Xo. 1, Copp's Hill. (291) iii. Joseph' Curtis, thought to have been lost at sea. (292) iv. Elizabeth Box' Curtis, m. Saml. M. W. Brooks. She had two children. BKONSDOX FAMILY. 99 (293), i. Samuel G." Brooks, b. about 1818-19. (294) ii. Samh E. C.« Brooks, b. about 1821. We havebeeu unable to trace these children further than to ascertain that they removed to New York City, or thereabouts, with theii; father, about the years 1837-8. Their mother had died before their grandmotlier Curtis, and Mr. ]>rooks settled the property, and, with the children, left Boston, and it is supposed married again. In 1837, he was employed by the Long Island Dye Co., New York, as book-keeper. A strong effort lias been made to trace these descendants of Sarah B. (Bronsdon) Curtis. We trust that if this comes to their knowledge, they will communicate with us. In the year 1799, her brother Bant Bronsdon* of Boston died, leaving a family of seven children, and, a year later, Bant's wife died also (Deborah Jackson;. Mrs. Curtis was very kind to these children. In 1804, she was appointed guanlian as follows : •'Sarah \\. Curtis, widow, June 11, 1804, appointed guardian of Harriet and Sarah Bronsdon minors more than 14 and Mary, Joseph, Nancy and l';ischal, minors Irss tlian 1 I. '• Samuel '■' • ■ '-rlain i>f llv-u'ii .Mt-rcli* and Joseph Newell of Charles- tnwn, MtMch'. I lK)und with s*' (luardian for faithful performance of s" trust." WluMi .Mr.s. l».\, un- wi'UMV . Curtis' uncle, John Box, Jr., who d. 17'.H.», leaving an estate in disi)ute, was thereby rendered nearly dfstituti', .Mrs. Curtis received her, and i-ared for her until her death in IS 14. Aunt Deborah's Bible, wliich was brought from England by John W^tx, Sr., thus fell into Mrs. Curtis' possession, and was by her presented to .lohn l?o.\ llrun.sdon, and is now in Stoughton in the Itebecca^ (Bronsdon) Gay family. Margaret Uronsdon* (Phinea.s') b. 1824, received as a birth gift a little blue wooden high chair (which is still in a state of good preservation) from her father's Aunt Curtis. In the Columbian Cfitt'unl, .\pr. -L'. 1 SIMI, is this uuliee : '• Last Kvcning Mrs. Sarah Curtis aged 73. Funeral on ^[onday After- noon at I o'clock from her late residence in Pitts Street." Lore. 100 PART I. (383) John Box Bronsdox* of Milton, Mass. (BANT.^ Bexj.^ Robt.^). [See also B 11, Tart II]. [John Box Bronsdon was the first born of the Fourth Generation of Bronsdons.] John Box BkoxsdoxS sou of (196) Bant Bronsdon, was b. May 21, 17-,1 His mother, Elizabeth (Box), was an Episcopalian in beUef, and had her first-born son bapt. at King's Chapel, Sept. 8, 1751, where his name is recorded as -'John Brunsden." He was named in honor of his grandfather, John Box. The intentions of marriage between him and :Miss Abigail Baker are recorded in Stonghton. "Intentions of IMarriage between John Box Bransdle of Milton and Abigail Baker of Stoughton, entered with me the subscriber June j" -» 1774 '' (Signed) George Grossman, Toa-n Clerk. The marriage took place Aug. 9, 1774, and the young couple settled at Milton, near the Blue Hills. Abigail Baker was b. May 21, 1751 ; her parents were Elijah and Hannah (Puffer) Baker of Stoughton. Her ancestry includes also Withington (in two lines) Preston, Eliot, Sybthorpe, Gurtis, Trott, Procter, Earnsworth, Holbrook, Heminway (?) Glapp, Vose and Pond. (See Baker Appendix.) John Box Bronsdon^ d. Feb. 22, 1823, aged 71 years, and Abigail, his wife, d. June 18, 1827, aged 76 years, and both are bur. in Milton Gemetery. Tivelve Children, all b. in IMilton : (295) i. Phinehas Bronsdon^ b. May 7, 1775; d. June 22, 1776, aged 13 mos., 15 d. (296) ii. Benjamin. Bronsdon^, b. July 1, 1778; d. July 18, 1832; m. Nancy Damon. (297) iii. Ahirjail Bronsdon', b. Dec. 31, 1779; d. Apr. 23, 1850; in. Harrison. (298) iv. Samuel Bronsdon'', b. Aug. 9, 1781 ; d. Aug. 25, 1867 ; m. Mary Brewer. (299) V. Sarah Curtis Bronsdon^ b. Feb. 24, 1783 ; d. Feb. 24, 1855 ; m. Capt. Thos. H. Marsh. (300) vi. Elizabeth Box Bronsdon^ b. Nov. 7, 1784; d. May 30, 1768; m. John G. Loring. (301) vii. Behecca Bronsdon', b. June 10, 1786; d. Sept. 11, 1816; m. Solomon Stetson, who d. Dec. 7, 1817. (302) viii. John Bronsdon', b. Apr. 9, 1788; d. Feb. 15,1832; m. Elizabeth Holmes. a * » BRONSDON FAMILY. 101 (303) ix. Phiiii'has Brwisdon^, b. Apr. (i, 1790; d. Dec. 28, 18G1 ; m. Mrs. Rachel (Marston) Lee. (304) X. Hainmh Bronsdon^ b. Aug. 27, 1792; d. May 8,1881 ; m. Thos. Allen, Jr. (305) xi. Elijah Bronsdon', h. Dec. IG, 179G ; d. Aug. 22, 1831 ; single. (30G) xii. William Bant Bronsdon^, b. Sept. 21, 1798 ; d. Nov. 9, 1859 ; m. Elizabeth Bowman. All of these children have descendants living, with the exception of three : the first, Phineas ; Rebecca,' who died of consumption at the age of 30 years (her husband, Mr. Stetson, died soon after, and both are buried at Copp's Hill in the Bronsdon Tomb) ; and Elijah, who never married. The history of each child and descendants is given in order of birth following the biographies of their parents. Biography of (282) Johx Box Bkoxsdon*. He was the son of Capt. Bant Bronsdon'^ and Elizabeth, dau. of John and Lydia (Story) Box. John Box Bronsdon was b. in Boston on Hancock Street, near Mount Yernon Street. The spot has been pointed out to his grandchildren many times by their parents. The land is now the property of the State, and was at one time covered by the reservoir and now by the State House annex. At the time of John's birth, however, it belonged to his grandfather, John Box, '' ropemaker," of Boston. (See Part II of this book.) Young Bronsdon attended the Mavhew School on Plawkins Street. His father, Capt. Bant Bronsdon, died while absent on a voyage to England, according to family tradition, while his youngest child was an infant. Mr. Phineas Bronsdon (John Box Bronsdon's son) stated during his life-time that both his grandparents died before he was born (in 1790). He also said that his father had visited England where he had relatives. It is not probable that he remained there for any length of time, for he was apprenticed to a boot-maker in Boston, in compliance with a State law, which provided that every fatherless boy should be fitted with a useful and self- supporting trade. Before his marriage, which took place at the age of 23 years, he had accumulated sufficient means to enable him to purchase a house and land in Milton, the same which now belongs to his descendants. He was the first of his family in America to turn his attention toward farming. Even so, he did not depend upon farming altogether, but he was fond of a country life ; hunting and fishing were then about the only recre- ations for young men. He became acquainted with his future wife in Stoughton. As he traveled over the old Stoughton road from Boston he passed by a small place owned by Ralph Inman (a gentleman of Royalist sympathies), 102 P^KT I. which enlisted his attention as likely to prove a desirable home for himself and Abigail. :Mr. Inman had never lived there, having acquired title through his wife, who had been a Widow Smith of Milton. He was anxious to dispose of it, and John Box Bronsdon purchased it for £170, styling himself " cordwainer," in the deed of conveyance. The property was described as " five acres more or less on the road to Stoughton." There was an old house, built 1730. The land was part of an original grant in 1G60 to Deacon Edward Clap of Dorchester, who was a direct ancestor of Abigail (Baker) Bronsdon. Edward's son, Ezra, inherited the land from his father, and the five acres in question was set off as Ezra's widow's dower. Then Thomas Eels bought it of the widow (Experience Clap) and paid her £24 for it. He " improved " the laud and built a house in 1 730. He died, and his son, Joshua Eels (also Ellis) bought out the heirs (liis mother and sisters). Joshua Eels had gone to Connecticut to reside and had no use for the place, therefore he sold it to Samuel Soper, whose son, Justus, came into possession in July, 1770. Justus Soper dying, his administrator gave a deed of the property to Kufus Bent, from whom it passed to the Widow Smith, who afterward married Kalph Inman. The description of the original grant coincides very nearly with the estate afterward acquired by John Box Bronsdon, who increased his real estate holdings in Milton as time went on. From the records we copy : " Lot 52, containing 28 acres 32 rods granted to Edward Clap in 1660." This lot extended from the ''old Braintree Line" to the "Parallel Line." (See History of Milton.) John BoxBronsdon's purchases, from dif- ferent parties after 1774, included most of the land originally granted to Edward Clap, and he subsequently increased the amount to about fifty acres. He had the English passion for land, and he acquired all that he was able by hard work and self denial. The times were hard, indeed, at the period of and succeeding the Eevolution. He gave freely of his services at inter- vals for two years to the patriot cause. He had a large family, who were comfortably "raised" and assisted to make their way in life. He died free from debt and respected as a good neighbor and an honest man. In detail, his real estate investments were as follows : i\[arch 6, 1777, Ebenezer Houghton conveyed to John Box Bronsdon 5 separate parcels of land, one containing 4|- acres, 29 rods : one containing 14^ acres 11 rods: one containing 2^ acres 10 rods and one containing 7^ acres 15 rods, also 1 acre of salt meadow. Eeb. 4, 1781, William Tucker conveyed to John Box Bronsdon "meadow land comprising 4^ acres." BRONSDON FAMILY. 103 Jan. 21, 1788, Setli Sumner et al to John Box Bronsdou 6 acres and also ^ oi a, 10-acre lot, the other half Stephen Clap owned. (Book 138, leaf 38, Suffolk Deeds.) In the same year, Stephen' Clap and his mother Mary Clap, his sisters Lydia, Hannah, Esther and Judith, deeded five acres next the homestead for £13 10s., bounded S.W. by Joseph Tucker, N.W. by same, N".E. on Brons- don's own land in part and partly on land of Jackson heirs "said to be owned by Hon. Oliver Wendall," and S.E. on land of Hon. John Hancock on what is called the " Old Braintree Line," with a right of way " from the old county road through Soper's land." On this land, John Bronsdon^, son of John Box Bronsdon, afterward built a house, which is still standing, and with the land is owned by W. E. C. Eustis. In 1791, Hon. Oliver Wendell conveyed " two acres on Bare Hill " to John Box Bronsdon. (Book 170, leaf 239, Suffolk Deeds.) Mr. Bronsdon sold a piece of land to Dr. John Sprague, but he was not anxious to dispose of what he had acquired. He appears to have had con- siderable business ability, conjoined with industry and perseverance. His wife inherited an interest in real estate from her 'Grandfather Puffer in Randolph. John Box Bronsdon increased this inheritance by purchasing the shares of all the other heirs until he had twenty-five acres of land in Randolph, Mass. In 1804, the Blue Hill turnpike was laid out in the rear of the homestead lot in Milton. Soon after John Box Bronsdon's marriage, perhaps at the very time, his brother Benjamin came to live with him. In one early paper he styles himself "victualler," and as Benjamin is later found as a marketman in Boston, it is not improbable that John Box Bronsdon started the business, and afterward relinquished it to his brother. He soon engaged in boot and shoe-making. His shop was on the " Glover " land, the old cellar hole being still recognizable, although the building itself has long since disappeared. As a " shoe manufacturer " he met with a good degree of success, thereby obtaining ready cash, and he was thus enabled to pay for his lands. He was noted for his hospitable disposition. His cherry trees were of the choicest varieties, planted and nurtured by himself. In cherry time, large parties of relatives and friends from Boston and other places were wont to appear at the farm, to be regaled with the delicious fruit. The cherry trees stood through two generations. In 1784, his brother Benjamin purchased land and erected a house in Milton (see his history), preparatory to taking a wife and settling down. His sister Sarah had married Capt. Curtis in 1777, and lived on Pitts Street, Boston, also had a summer residence in Milton, close by Benjamin's place. Others of the family married and remained near, except William, who was 104 PART I. captain of a whaling ship, and who, before his retirement from a sea-faring life, removed to Worcester County. One brother, Bant, died in 1799. At the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, but two of the Bronsdons were old enough to take part in the struggle. These were John Box Brons- don* and Benjamin Bronsdon^ They used to relate that they started for or went to the Battle of Bunker Hill, but there are no records to confirm this action. Descendants of John Box Bronsdon's father have figured in every war since his day. In the Archives of the State of Massachusetts, we find the following record of service, John Box Bronsdon's name being included in each muster roll : '•' ]\Lilton, Dec. 21, 1775. Muster roll of Capt. John Bradlee's company of Militia in Col. Lemuel Robinson's Regt. that served 17 days as a stand- ing company in defence of American Liberty before the standing army was complete after Concord fight." "Muster roll of Capt. John Bradley's co. of Militia of Milton in Col. Gill's Regt. that marched to Dorchester Keck March 4 1776 to the assistance of the army when the forts were erected at Dorchester. Marched 9 miles, 5 days service." " Muster Roll of Capt. Josiah Vose's co. of Militia in Milton that guarded the sea shores from Apr. 13 to 26, 1776." Copies of the original can be obtained at the State House in Boston. Milton History gives the full rolls. The story of March, 1776, is related by Rev. Mr. Teele, the historian of Milton. This is the story of the achievements at Dorchester Heights, which had the result of driving the British from Boston. John Box Bronsdon bore an active part in the doings of that eventful time. Neither himself nor his possessions were spared in the service. He was enrolled as a soldier, but on that night, when the fortification was erected, he drove his own team, loaded with material for the construction of breastworks. He possessed two yoke of oxen, both of which were in iise on that occasion. Mr, Teele says, " The materials for the breastworks were cut on the Sumner Farm in Milton (which is about ten miles from the State House), and were stored in a secluded spot. About three hundred teams were employed in transporting them. Not a word was spoken ; the teams, with muffled chains and wheels, worked almost without guidance." Our ancestor related that he took the " nigh ox by the horns " and drew its head in the needed direction. Two thousand men marched across the Neck. The time was about 7 in the evening. Abigail was waiting at home with their little son, she feared BRONSDON FAMILY. 105 for its father's life, but he was to return, while, in a few short weeks, the little babe was to pass away. Her father, too, was bearing his part of the burden of war. John Box Bronsdon received no money for his work that night, yet never did he work with greater force and speed ; he thought not of pay. First, an advance party led the way carefully, silently, then fol- lowed the mufifled carts loaded with digging tools and crowbars, then a body of soldiers, and, in the rear, more carts loaded with bundles of wood, called fascines, and other material, for the erection of earth-works. By the early gleams of the dawn, they had built defences which served as a shield against small shot. It is well known how the British general, and his army of eight thousand men, sailed away to Halifax and came not back. There is no portrait of John Box Bronsdon, although it is thought there was one in existence, but its present whereabouts is unknown. An expressive '' silhouette " picture remains. He was of medium weight and height, dark hair and eyes, and of very dignified presence. During his last years he was an invalid, tenderly cared for by wife and children. His widow lived on in the old house for a few years after her husband's death, cared for by a son, Elijah, who never married, and lived at home. The grave of John Box Bronsdon is in the oldest part of Milton Cemetery. One stone marks the last resting place of husband and wife, and it is in an excellent state of preservation. John Box Bronsdon died, as he had lived, square with his fellowman, having been honest in his dealings and a faithful husband, parent and friend. Mrs. Abigail (Bakek), wife of John Box Bronsdon. She was possessed of much natural ability as well as refinement, and was of good family, reckoning some of the best families of the county among her relatives. She inherited property in land from the Puffers, her mother's people, to which land her husband added by purchases from the other heirs, thus acquiring considerable woodland in Kandolph. In temperament, quiet and serene, she formed a marked contrast to her outspoken and impulsive husband. He was accustomed to ride rough-shod over obstacles, and there was often occasion for her feminine diplomacy in smoothing a path for his eager and impetuous feet. But for all her placidity, she did not lack energy and promptitude. A pretty story is told of her while she was still young Abby Baker. It was winter time, and a snow storm, amid a furious gale, was raging. The '•■ men-folks " were absent, and Abby was j)eering from the windows of her home, anxious for their return. Suddenly above the roar of the storm there smote upon her ear a perfect babel of sound which experience told her proceeded from a flock of wild geese. She comprehended on the instant that the geese had become bewildered in the fierce wind and blinding snow, loe. PART I. and that their puri>ose was to settle on Ponkapog Pond, for which they were then searching. They had been attracted by the cries of an old tame gander out in the Baker barn, and Abby could distinguish his voice in emulation of his wild brethren., Scarcely less excited, she rushed out into the storm and with all her girlish strength flung wide the big barn doors and, to her in- tense deli.'ht, the wild geese came flapping and honking about her, lured by the tame gander, and followed their leader into the sheltering recesses of the barn. lyierrily then did Abby swing to the doors upon her feathered pris- oners. It was a large flock ; and every one of Abigail's children and grand- children have been entertained in their youth with the story of her exploit, and no bride was better provided with fluffy goose-feather pillows and beds than she. In appearance, Abigail Bronsdon was the reverse of her husband, being fair and with blue eyes. She lived on in the old house with her son Elijah, for four years of widowhood ; then she passed away and was buried by her husband's side. One stone marks their last resting place in Milton Cemetery, inscribed as follows : Sacred to the Memory of Mr. John B. Bronsdon who died Feb. 22, 1823, aged 71 years, ii- of his Wife Mrs. Abigail Bronsdon ivJio died June 18 1827 aged 77. She was really but 76 years old. A Revolutionary marker is placed in front of the grave of John Box Bronsdon, in recognition of his service dur- ing those trying times of war. SILHOUETTES OF (282) JOHN BOX BRONSDON^ AND WIFE WITH SIX OF THEIR CHILDREN (See Numbers), AND AUTOGRAPH OF ROBERT BRONSDON'. BRONSDON FAMILY. 107 (296) Benjamin Bronsdon^ (John Box", Bant", Benj.^, Robx.I). [See also (B. 14) Part II.] (296) Benjamin Bronsdon^ was the second child (tlie first cliild d. young) of (282) John Box Bronsdon, ahd was b. in IVIilton, Mass., July 1, 1778 ; ni. July, 1805, Nancy Wade Damon, who was 1). in Scituate, Mass., May 4, 1780, and was dau. of Zadock and Thankful (Wade) Damon. Benja- min Bronsdon^ d. suddenly, July 18, 1832 ; Mrs. Bronsdon d. Feb. G, 1862, in jNIilton. Children : (307) i. Jane Bronsdoyi^, b. Aug. 13, 1806, at the old Damon Homestead in Scituate ; m. Dec. 24, 1840, Aaron Bullock Drake, b. Jan. 10, 1815, in Grafton, N.H., and son of James 0. and Abigail (Bul- lock) Drake. ]\Ir. Drake d. May 1, 1868, at North Bridgewater, where they had resided, and Mrs. Drake d. Sept. 12, 1871. She was a very comiDanionable woman, and much beloved by her friends. Three Children: (308) i. Amelia Barsfow'^ Drake, b. Oct. 23, 1841 ; m. James P. Pearson of Hancock, N.k., later of Washington, D.C., Oct. 30, 1866. He d. in Washington, Dec. 7, 1893, and she d. Aug. 10, 1896, at Nashua, N.H. Both buried at Bridge- water, now Brockton, Mass. No children. (309) ii. John Damon'' Drake, b. June 13, 1844 : d. Oct. 14, 1845. (310) iii. Louise Jane' Drake, b. Mch. 8, 1847. Resides at Nashua, N.H. (311) ii. George Curtis Bronsdon^h. May 17, 1810, in Milton; d., un- married, at the Homestead in " Scott's Woods," Milton, June 3, 1893, aged 83 years. (312) iii. Leirls Vose Bronsdon^ b. Aug. 5, 1814 : m. Louisa McDuffee. Res. at Milton. Three children. See below. (313) iv. Enos Fohes Bronsdon^ b. Dec. 5, 1819; d. Sept. 26, 1874; m. Annah N. Coffin. See below. Biography. (296) Benjamin Bronsdon^ was named for his uncle Benjamin. Little Benjamin was very welcome to his parents, and was ever a great favorite with his father ; as he had all the instincts of a sportsman, he was early pre- sented with a fowling-piece, and allowed to accompany his father about the Blue Hills, where game was plentiful, and he also fished in the rivers and ponds. As he grew to manhood he extended his hunting-grounds, and at 108 PART I. Cohasset he owned lirush Island, and had a camp there, where he lodged when on his gunning expeditions. In the neighborhood was the Zadock Damon Homestead, where Benjamin found a greater attraction than hunt- ing, in the company of the fair daughter of the house, sweet Kancy Damon. Benjamin's suit was looked upon with favor by Miss Damon and her parents, and having won their consent to the marriage, he bought land in Milton, about two miles from his father's house, across the fields in Scott's Woods, and there he built a house, and when all was in readiness he brought his bride home. They lived together most happily for upw^ards of a quarter of a century, when he died suddenly of heart disease in 1832. She lived for many years, a lovely and beloved old lady. She w^as 82 years oUl when she died, and is buried beside her beloved husband in Milton Cemetery. Mr. Bronsdon's tombstone bears the following sentiment : " Behold my ivife and children dear, This was your friend who slumbers here. Though death to me no warning gave But suddenly laid me in the grave Yet mourn not for your God is near He will to you a friend appear.'" (312) Lewis Vose Bronsdon® (Bexj.^ Johx Box*, Bant^, Bexj.-, Robt.^). Lewis Vose Bronsdon®, son of (296) Benjamin and Nancy (Damon) Bronsdon, was b. in Milton, Aug. 5, 1814, and is consequently now in his 87th year. He is a farmer, and resides in the old homestead in " Scott's Woods." He m., Feb. 6, 1844, Miss Louisa McDuffee. Mr. Hronsdon is the senior member of the Bronsdon family in the male line. With him reside his son and daughter, his wife having passed away Wednesday, June 13, 1900. Children : (314) i. Louise Bronsdon', b. Jan. 24, 1849 ; res. at home with her father. She formerly taught school in Milton. (315) ii. Leu-is Bronsdon\ b. May 6, 1852 ; m. Sept. 6, 1894, Delia Eiley, of lU-aintree. No children. (316) iii. Pd('(j Bronsdon', b. Aug. 13, 1854 ; unmarried; res. at home; is a farmer. Mrs. Louisa (McDuffee) Bronsdon (see McDuffee in Appendix) was no ordinary woman. She conversed with rare intelligence, and her gentle courtesy and good breeding made visitors at home with her. She was cheerful under all circumstances, and interested in every one about her, true and generous as a friend, and so just in all her perceptions, that she never BRONSDON FAMFLY. 109 seemed old, although her bodily health was none of the best. Her life was truly a beautiful one, and her going out gentle and peaceful, as befitted its close. She was born in Bradford, Vermont, April 11, 1817, and was of Scotch-Irish ancestry, an account of which will be found in the Appendix. (313) Enos Fobes Bronsdon'^ (Benj.^, John Box^ Bant^ Benj.^, Bobt.^). Ends Fobes Bronsdon was the fourth child of (296) Benjamin and Nancy (Damon) Bronsdon, and was b. in Milton, Dec. 5, 1819 ; m. Annah IST. Coffin, who was b. in Nantucket, IVIch. 18, 1825. Mr. Bronsdon lived on the farm in Milton with his mother and brother. He d. Sept. 26, 1871. His widow res. with her only son. Child: (317) i. Herbert Coffin Bronsdon', b. Nov. 11, 1856 ; m. Sept. 25, 1882, Caroline INIatilda Lombard, who was b. in Marlboro, Mass., and dau. of Thomas C. and Emma G. Lombard. Children : (318) i. Edward Holijoke Bronsdon^ b. Jan. 24, 1887 ; d. Oct. 1887 ; bur. in Milton Cemetery. (319) ii. Herbert Coffin Bronsdon^, Jr., b. Dec. 23, 1891. (320) iii. Gladys Prentice Bronsdon^, b. July 4, 1893. Mr. Herbert C. Bronsdon'' has been for several years Curator at the Y. M. C. U., 48 Boylston Street, Boston. He resides in Dorchester. 110 PART I. (297) Abigail Broxsdon^ (John Box*, Baxt^ Bexj.^, Eobt.^). Abigail Bkonsdon^ was the third eliikl of (282) John Box Bronsdoii and his wife Abigail (Baker), and was b. in Milton, Dec. 31, 1779. Her husband's name was Harrison, and he is thouglit to have died before the birth of her second child. She was not married in Milton, and but little is known of Mr. Harrison. After his death she chose to resume her maiden name, and set herself to the task of maintaining herself and little ones. She became a most excellent nurse, Avhose services were con- stantly in demand. She was bright, capable, and attractive. She was a church member, and her pastor, the Rev. Samuel Cozzens, in preaching her funeral sermon, spoke of her activity in church work and her charity to the poor. He had, he said, met her in the house of sickness and death, and her presence there was like a benediction. At the time of her death, in 1850, she had resided for several years in her own home in Milton Village. She had two daughters, only one of whom has descendants. (321) i. Man/ Harrison, b. Feb. 12, 1800 ; m. April, 1824, Pvobert Fletcher, who was b. in Peebles, Scotland, and d. in Brighton, ]\Iass., Sept., 1864. Mrs. Fletcher d. Dec. 24, 1866. There were nine children, six of whom are now living (1901). (322) i. Helen Burnet' Fletcher, b. Oct. 27,1825; m. Charles Sanderson. Nine children. See below. (323) ii. Ilnhevt'' Fletcher, b. Aug. 11, 1827 ; d. Jan. 28, 1893. He was a soldier in the jMexican War. (324) iii. Mart/ Jane' Fletcher, b. Dec. 7, 1829 ; d. Feb. 10, 1876; in. Dr. Felix Canfield of Brighton. No children. (325) iv. Marfjaref Fletcher, b. Nov. 17, 1831; m. John Wilson. Ten children. See below. (320) V. William' Fletcher, b. Dec. 9, 1833 ; m. Maria F. Corwin. Six children. See below. (327) vi. Annie' Fletcher, b. June 7, 1835 ; m. Joseph White Williams : res. at Jamaica Plain. See below. .(328) vii. Arabella Stuart'' Fletcher, b. July 27, 1838 ; m. Edward Stone. Four children. See below. (329) viii. Caroline Elizabeth' Fletcher, b. Jan. 24, 1841 ; m. first, Benj. F. Richer ; second, James B. F. Thomas. See below. (330) ix. Sarah Agnes'' Fletcher, b. Xov. 8, 1842 ; m. Dec. 21, 1866, Benjamin Mudge Fisk ; he b. at Lyndeboro, N.H., Mch. 5, 1844. Mrs. Fisk d. Jan. 8, 1900, leaving no children. BRONSDON FAMILY. Ill (322) Helen- Burnet'' Fletcher, dau. of (321) Mary*^ (Harrison) Fletcher (Mary*', Abigail^, John Box^, BANT^ Ben.t.^, Eot}t'.). (322) Helen Burnet Fletcher, b. Oct. 27, 1825; m. Dec. 11, 1845, Charles William Sanderson, who was b. in Brighton, Mass., Ang. 26, 1823. Children all born in Brighton, where they res.ide (1901). Nine Children : (331) i. Helen Bin-iief^ Sanderson, b. Nov. 26, 1846; m. 1868, Alpheus Kirke White (b. in Brighton, Mch., 1840 ; d. Jan., 1882). Two Children : (332) i. Larl'in Wright:" White, b. Nov. 18, 1868 ; d. Dec, 1869. (333) ii. William. Morton'' White, h. Ang. 27, 1870; m. Jan. 29, 1896, Ella Hart, and had (334) i. Charles Augustus^'' White, b. Ang. 28, 1872. (335) ii. Alpheus Kirke'^^ White, b. Jnly, 1875. (336) iii. Laura'' White, b. Dec. 19, 1881. (337) ii. Charles Mi^ Sanderson, b. Dec. 16, 1848 ; m. Eliza McCarthy. Ees. in Brighton. Three Children : (338) i. Floreiiee Thiving^ Sanderson, b. 1877 ; d. 1885. (339) ii. Fannie' (twin to Florence), b. 1877. (340) iii. Blanche Gertrude' Sanderson, b. Jnly, 1883. (341) iii. John Thu-ing^ Sanderson, b. Mch. 18, 1851; m. Jnlianna Heath, Dec, 1871. She Avas b. in St. Johnsbury, Vt., Apr., 1853. Ees. in Brighton. Six Children : (342) i. Leon"" Sanderson, b. 1872; d. in infancy. (343) ii. Henri/^ Clark^ Sanderson, b. Feb. 8,. 1874. (344) iii. Caroli7ie IsabeP Sanderson, b. Feb., 1875. (345) iv. John Alden'' Sandersov, b. Jan., 1879. (346) V. WiHiani Fleteher'' Sanderson, h. K\\^. 3, 1^?>\. (347) vi. Kenneth Esmond'' Sanderson, b. 1887 ; d. 1894. (348) iv. Jessie^ Sanderson, b. Oct. 1, 1853; m. April 30, 1872, Zachary Taylor Harrington, who was b. in Boston, , 1847. Mrs. Harrington d. at Wellesley Hills, Dec. 23, 1899. Five Children : (349) i. Sidney Scott'' Harrington, b. Feb. 18, 1873 ; m. Aug., 1896, Florence Leslie (b. Jnly 31, 1874). (350) ii. Fannie Smtes^ Harrington, h. Oct. 1, 1875. (351) iii. Marian Leslie^ Harrington, b. Nov. 4, 1877. (352) iv. Jessie Lester^ Harrington, b. Oct. 13, 1879. (353) V. Ruth Alnia^ Harrington, b. Sept., 1889. 112 PAET I. (354) V. Annie Cora^ Sanderson, b. Oct. 10, 1855 ; m. Frank Augustus Taylor, who was b. in Ik-ighton, May, 1859. 07ie Child: (355) Helen A.^ Taylor, b. Dec, 1884. (356) vi. liohert Fletcher^ Sa^iderson, b. Dec. 23, 1857 ; unmarried. (357) vii. Cordelia Clark^ Sanderson, b. Nov. 30, 1861 ; m. Jan., 1882, William Baird Pond, who was b. Mch., 1859. Res. at Brighton. One Child : (358) Jean Baird^ Pond, b. Feb. 21, 1883. (359) viii. Clarence Wood^ Sanderson, b. Mch. 19, 1869; m. June, 1895, Mary Alice Warren, who was b. in Brighton, June, 1871. Res. at Watertown. One Child : (360) William Proctor' Sanderson, b. July 8, 1896. (361) ix. Wallace Proctor^ Sanderson, b. Dec. 9, 1870 ; d. Mch. 14, 1888, in Briu'liton. (335) ]\[argaret" Fletcher (Mary^, Abigail^, John Box^, Bant^, Bexj.^, RoBT.^), dau. of (321) Mary® (Harrison) Fletcher. She was b. in Dorchester, ISTov. 17, 1831 ; m. July 3, 1848, in New York City, John Wilson, who was b. in Edinboro', Scotland, Feb. 22, 1820, and d. there July 8, 1867. Mrs. Wilson res. in Brooklyn. She has had ten children, six of whom are living. (362) i. Margaret Wilson, b. July 29, 1849 ; m. September, 1873, James Rapelyea. (363) ii. Charles Lockhart^ Wilson, b. July 2, 1853 ; m. Apr., 1878, Kate Reed ; res. in Chicago, 111. (364; iii. Emma^ Wilson, b. April 11, 1860; m. Mch., 1888, Jacob H. Schoonmaker of Brooklyn. N.Y. (365) iv. Normnn^ Wilson, b. Sept. 12, 1861 ; m. Oct., 1885^ Mary E. Osterla of I Baltimore. (366) V. Donald^ Wilson, b. Nov. 19, 1863 ; m. Aug., 1888, Ida Euglis ; res. in Ik'ooklyn, N.Y. (367) vi. Fb'tcher^ Wilson, b. Oct. 16, 1866 ; m. Annie L. Way, Jan., 1894 ; res. at La Porte, Texas. ^^rs. Rapelyea and Mrs. Schoonmaker have no children. The others have families. (336) William' Fletcher (MARY^ Abigail^, John Box*, Bant^, P.ENJ.2, RoBT.i), son of (321) Mary« (Harrison) Fletcher. He was b. Dec. 9, 1833 ; m. Sept. 13, 1864, Maria F. Corwin, who was b. May 3, 1842, at Lebanon, Ohio. Res. at Kansas City, Kans. BRONSDON FAMILY. 113 Children : (368) i. Mary Cnnrl,,^ Fletcher, b. Dee. 21, 18G5 ; in. June 30, 1884, R. D. S})eck. (369) ii. Robert C Fletcher, b. Mcli. 1, 1867. (370) iii. Williaiti^ Fletcher, Jr., b. June 20, 186S. (371) iv. Matthew C.« Fletcher, b. Mcli. 2, 1874. (372) V. Helen Burnet^ Fletcher, b. Oct. 1, 1879. (373) vi. Mabel S.' Fletcher, b. Oct. 19, 1883. (337) Annie'' Fletchek, dau. of Mary (Harrison) Fletcher (321) (Mary®, Abigail^, John Box"*, Bant^, Benj.^ Robt.^). Annie Fletcher was b. June 7, 1835 ; m. June 9, 1853, Joseph White Williams, who was b. Nov. 28, 1823, near the Brookline Reservoir, in Brookline, Mass. His parents were Joseph and Caroline (White) Wil- liams. They rem. to Jamaica Plain in 1828, and their son had made his home there since that time, a period of 72 years. He was engaged with his father, during his early manhood, in business at the corner of Burroughs and Center Streets, but had been retired for about fifteen years before his death, which took place after a short illness, Sept. 1, 1900. He had pre- viously enjoyed the best of health. When a boy he attended Mr Smalley's school in Hyde Square, and afterwards was a pupil in the old Eliot school, which was located near Monument Square, Jamaica Plain, and which his father aided in building. Nearly everybody in Jamaica Plain was acquainted with him, and he was very highly respected. He was a successful business man, and a con- siderable property owner. His death was a loss to the community, and a deep sorrow to his bereaved wafe, who had enjoyed a happy married life of nearly half a century with him. Mr. and Mrs. Williams had no children. His funeral took place on Sept. 4, and he was laid to rest at Forest Hills Cemetery. (338) Arabella Stuart'' Fletcher, dau. of Mary (Harrison) Fletcher (321) (xMary«, Abigail^ John Box*, P.ant^ Benj.-, Eobt.i). Arabella Stuart Fletcher was b. July 27, 1838, in Dorchester ; m. Dec. 25, 1855, Edward Stone, who was b. in Boston, Feb. 20, 1831. They reside in Jamaica Plain, and have had four children ; the first born in Jamaica Plain, the others in Roxbury. Children : (374) i. Jennie Allen' Stone, b. Mch. 10, 1858 ; d. Oct. 13, 1886, aged 28 years. (375) ii. Arabella Fletcher' Stone, b. May 16, 1860 ; d. Dec. 24, 1866. (376) iii. William Henri/ Stone, b. April 8, 1862 ; d. Dec. 8, 1863. (377) iv. Edward Fulton' Stone, b. April 1, 1867. 8 114 TAUT 1. (329) Caroline Elizabeth^ Fletcher, dau. of Mary (Harrison) Fletcher (321) (Mary«, ABIGAIL^ John BoxS Bant^ BENJ.^ Robt.i). Caroline Elizabeth' Fletcher was b. Jan. 24, 1841 ; m. May, 1858, Benjamin F. Ricker, who was b. in Brighton, 1834 ; d. June 24, 1896. She then m. second, James B. F. Thomas, Oct., 1897, who was b. in Boston, 1839. lies, in ]5i-ighton summers, and in Boston durmg the winter time. Cliildren, all by first husband, five in number : (378) i. Lillian Bassetf Ricker, b. Mch. 1, 1859 ; m. Jan. 9, 1882, George P Kelley. They have no children (1898). (379) ii. Carrie Josephine' Bicker, b. Dec. 24, 1861 ; m. first, Walter B. Cross ; second, Clarence A. Laubham. Res. m Boston. Cliildren : (380) i. Gertrude Agnes^ Laubham, b. Feb. 22, 1884. (381) ii. Lillian Marguerite^ Laubham, b. Jan. 2, 1889. (382) iii. Frank Hunter'' Ricker, b. Jan. 18, 1864 ; m. Oct., 1893, Lelia Warren. Children : (383) i. Dorothji Elizabeth^ Ricker, b. Sept. 6, 1896. (384) ii. Lelia Frances Ricker'^, b. Nov. 20, 1897. (385) iv. Ag7ies Flora^ Ricker, b. Oct. 8, 1866. (386) v. Arabella Stuarf Ricker, b. Oct. 26, 1868 ; m. Oct. 11, 1894, Alfred ^Nludge. Child : (387) i. Caroline Fletcher'' Mudge, b. Dec. 1, 1897. BEONSDON FAMILY. 115 (ti98) Samukl Bkonsi:)On^ (John ]>ox'', IUnt'', Hen.i.-, Robt.^). (298) Samukl IJkonsdon^ was tlie fourth child of (28L') Jolin Box Broiisdon, and was b. in Milton, j\Iass., Any. 9, 1780; in. Feb. 4, 1812, Mary (Polly), dau. of William and Experience (Pittee) Brewer of Hing- hani, Mass. She was 1). Aug. 10, 1785. Mv. Bronsdon d. June 10, 1840, and his widow d. Aug. 25, 1867. They resided in Milton all their lives. Samuel Bronsdon possessed the virtues of generosity and hospitality, and was greatly beloved, as was also his wife, who was familiarly called Aunt Polly. Her life was full of good works. The home life of Samuel Bronsdon was very pleasant. They were attendants at the Unitarian Church, Milton. Children, h. in Milton, seven in number: (388) i. Cliarh's llronsdon^', b. Apr. 20, 1813 ; m. Lydia INlaria Jenness of Cambridge. He d. June 21, 1870, and she d. Apr. 3, 1881. Six Cliildren : (389) i. Ma7-ia Louise Bronsdon', b. Feb. 17,1843; m. Jan. 8, 1863, Samuel, son of Samuel and Lydia Jenness, who was b. Aug. 9, 1841. They have had four children : (390) i. Arthur W^ Jenness, b. Jan. 8, 1864. (391) ii. Helen Louise^ Jenness, b. Xov. 8, 1865. (392) iii. Alice Bronsdon^ Jenness, b. Apr. 3, 1868; d. young. (393) iv. Harriet JIabeP Jenness, b. May 30, 1877 ; d. young. (394) ii. Luci/ Jenness Bronsdon'', b. Feb. 27, 1846, in Fitchburg; d. in Cambridge, Feb. 24, 1868, unmarried. (395) iii. Mar// Brewer Bronsdon'. b. Sept. 11, 1848, in Dorchester; d. Sept. 20, 1849. (396) iv. Charles Warren Broiisdiin\ h. July 30. 1850; d. Sept. 9, 1851. (397) V. Samuel Gilbert Bronsdon'' (called Gilbert Brons- don), b. in Dorchester, Feb. 14, 1854 ; m. and went to Minneapolis, Minn. No trace of him. (398) vi. Nancy Beale Bronsdon', b. Aug. 15, 1855 ; d. Aug. 10, 1856. (399) ii. Mary Elizabeth Bronsdon^ b. Dec. 28,1814; m. Henry Swan ; eight children. See below. 116 PART I. (400) iii. Francis Henry Bronsdon^, b. Sept. 3, 1817; m, in Milton, Apr., lS39,"Sarah Ann Kennison of Plymouth, N. H.. He d. May 22, 1860, leaving one child: (401) i. Saruli Frances Bronsdon', b. in Milton, Apr. 10, 1849 ; m. Ernest Evans of AUentown, N. H. (402) iv. Samui'l Bronsdon^, Jr., b. Nov. 29, 1819 ; m. at Hingham, Deborah K. Whiton, June 1, 1843. She d. Oct., 1876, and he d. ]\Iar. 10, 1885. Mr. Bronsdon was one of the original members of the Lincoln Light Infantry, 4th Regt., M.V. M., served three months at Fortress ISIonroe as a fifer, re-enlisted Oct. 14, 1861, and was assigned as first-class musician to the 19th Regt. Band. He participated in several serious engage- ments. Three Children, one of whom d. young : (403) i. Evivia Frances Bronsdon', b. Sept., LS4o ; un- married. (404) ii. Elizabeth Danforth Bronsdon'', b. Feb., 1849; m. June 5, 1888, Augustus S. Murch of Cas- tine, Me. One Child : (405) i. Harold Bronsdon^ Murch, b. Feb. 17, 1891. Res. in Hingham. (406) V. William- Brexver Bronsdon^, (Saml.^, John Box^, Bant^, Benj.-, Robt.i), was b. ]\ray 4, 1822; m. in Milton, July 19, 1853, Margaret Thompson Wille}^, who d. Jan. 9, 1898. She was the dau. of Simeon and Deborah (Hopkins) Willey of Mattapan, Mass., and was b. Aug. 12, 1832. Mr. Bronsdon lives on the homestead which Avas his father's, on Brook Road, Milton. He is a carpenter by trade, but now is iulirm from advancing years. He served nine months in the Civil War; enlisted Sept., 1862, in Co. B, 45th Regt., M.V. M., and mustered out July, 1863, with an honorable record. Children : (407) i. Arthur Edgar Bronsdon\ b. Apr. 17, 1854; d. Sept. 4, 1854. (408) ii. Williavi Franklin Bronsdo7i\ b. Apr. 23, 1857 ; d. Apr. 26, 1857. (409) iii. Walter Lincoln Bronsdon'' , b. Apr. 7, 1865 ; m. June 17, 1896, Madeleine Robina Findlater, who Avas b. Dec. 4, 1873, and is dau. of James Alexander (b. in New Hampshire), and Mar- garet (Burns) Findlater (b. in Truro). They have two children, b. in Milton : (410) i. Howard Allen Bronsdon^ b. Feb. 5, 1897. (411) ii. Winslow Bretver Bronsdon^ b. Jan. 6, 1898. BRONSDON FAMILY. » 117 (412) vi. Amos Ilolbvouk Jh-onsdon^, son of (298) Samuel and Mary (Brewer) Bronsdon, was b. in Milton, Sept. 24, 1824. He was unmarried, and d. Jan. 20, 1803. He d. of illness brought on by exposure at Acquia Creek, Va., while in active service in the 13th Eegt., M.A^ M. His body was brought home for burial. (413) vii. Joseplo Warren Bronsdon'^, son of (298) Samuel and Mary (Brewer) Bronsdon, was b. Apr. 2, 1829; m. Elizabeth, dau. of Edward and Eliza (Howe) Pierce of Dorchester, Sept. 24, 1874. She died before him. He d. Feb. 27, 1898, at the Old Gentlemen's Home in Boston. He was a member of the First Church in Dorchester. (399) Mary Elizabeth Bronsdon® (Saml.'^, John Box*, Bant^, Benj.'-', Robt.^). (399) Mary Elizabeth Bro»nsdon® was the second child of (298) Samuel and Mary (Brewer) Bronsdon. (See list of their children.) She was b. Dec. 28, 1814, in Milton, Mass., and m. Apr. 16, 1838, William Henry Swan of Dorchester, who was b. Mar. 17, 1816, and son of Reuben and Ruth (Teele) Swan. He d. while on a visit to Tampa, Fla., Jan. 9, 1896. Mrs. Swan d. in Dorchester at her residence, Sept. 23, 1897. She was possessed of sterling traits of character, which won the esteem of all who knew her. Her husband, Mr. Swan, was educated in the public schools of Dor- chester, and at Milton Academy, and in his early manhood taught school in Milton and Stoughton, and later, in the Wells School for Girls in Boston. He resigned his position in 1864, to enter the New England Bank of Bos- ton, where he remained until a short time before his death. He was a member of the Board of Selectmen of Dorchester for several years previous to 1869, and a director in the Dorchester Mutual Fire Insurance Co. He belonged to the <' Old School Boys' Association " of Boston. • He was successful as a teacher, and as a man was highly respected, both in public and private life. Mr. and Mrs. Swan had eight children : (414) i. William Henrrf Swan, b. Mar. 22, 1839. See below. (415) ii. Mary Richardson'' Swan, d. in infancy. (416) iii. Mary Richardson'' Sivan, b. June 22, 1842. See below. (417) iv. Walter Eugene' Swan, b. Sept. 7, 1845. See below. (418) V. Reuhen SamueP Siuan, b. Jan. 7, 1850. See beloAV. (419) vi. Allen Webster'' Swan, b. June 20, 1852. See below. (420) vii. Joseph Warren'' Swan, b. Oct. 12, 1855. See below. (421) viii. Edith'' Swan, b. Apr. 8, 1864. See below. 118 ' PART I. (414) Wii.r.iAM Henry^ Swan (Mary E.^ Saml.^ John Box^ Bant^, Benj.-, KOBT.l). He was b. Mur. 22, 18.'>9, in Dorchester, Mass., and d. in Shanghai, China, May 1, 1859, unmarried. He was educated in the" schools of Dor- chester, graduating from the High School with honor. He afterward made two voyages as <' cabin boy," the first on the ship " Flying -Fish," to San Francisco, Cal. ; the second (and, as it proved the last), in ship " Egeria," to Shanghai, where he died of fever, and is buried in the English grave- yard there. (416) Mary Richardson'^ Swan (Mary E.®, Saml.^, John Box*, Bant^, Benj.^, EOBT.I). She was b. July 22, 1842, in Dorchester; m. in Dorchester, July 6, 1865, Frederic Archibald O'Connor, who was b. in Boston, Mar. 11, 1838, and son of Peter Douglass and Bertha (Allen) O'Connor (b. in Birmingham, Eng.), and who removed from Boston to Lynn while their children were young, where they resided on Elm Street for many years. Frederic O'Connor first went to sea in 1850, and worked up to first officer in the merchant marine service. He was in China when the Civil War broke out in the United States, but he returned to his country, and in 18G1 entered the Xavy as master's mate. He was twice promoted for meri- torious conduct while in action, was twice wounded, and remained in the service until 1867, when he resigned. Later, lie entered the U. S. Revenue Marine Service as third lieutenant, and was promoted to second lieutenant. In 1877, Mr. O'Connor resigned from the service, and engaged in the real estate and insurance business in Boston. Res. at Newton Highlands. Five Children : (422) i. Fannie Louise^ O'Connor, h. in Lynn, ^Mar. 10, 1866. (42;j) ii. William Frederic^ 0'Con7ior, b. in Dorchester, Feb. 12, 1869; m. July 25, 1895, Susan Longfellow, b. in the Isle of Wight, Eng. (424) 111. Bertha Elizabeth^ O'Connor, b. in Dorchester, June 7, 1871. (425) iv. Mar;/ Bren-n-^ O'Connor, b. in Medfield, Nov. 26, 1874; m. at Xewton Highlands, Aug. 24, 1896, Artlu^r Eugene Martell who was b. June 20, 1868, in Nova Scotia. Res. at New ton Highlands. (426) v. Jean7iie Swan^ O'Connor, b. at Medheld, Sept. 13, 1878. (417; ^\■ALTEK Eugene' Swan (Mary E.«, Saml.^ John BoxS Bant^, Benj.-, Robt.^). He was b. Sept. 7, 1845, in Charlestown ; m. in Boston, Apr., 1869, Harriet Maria, dau. of Harriet and William Pike of Boston. Mr. Swan is secretary of the Boston Water Board. Res. at Dorchester. BRONSDON FAMILY. 119 Children : (427) i. L'obn-f niiick/ei/' Siran, b. July, 1870. (428) ii. ILtrry Gordon^ Stvan, b. Aug., 1873; m. June 5, 1900, Gertrude Lawrence of Dorchester. Infant child, Lawrence G. Swan, d. June, 1001. (418) Reuben Samuel'^ Swan (Mary E.'', Saml.'^, John Box^, Bant«, Ben,!.-, Robt.^). He was b. Jan. 7, 1850; m. Oct., 1873, Emma Augusta, dau. of Mary Jane (Wright) and William Melville of Dorchester. Mr. Swan is a cashier. Res. in Brookline. Child, b. in Dorchester : (429) i. Clifford Melville^ Sivan, b. Aug., 1877. (419) Allen Webster' Swan (Mary E.*', Saml.^, John Box*, Bant^, Benj.^, Robt.^). He was b. June 20, 1852. Is an organist and music teacher. Res. in New Bedford, Mass. (430) Joseph Warren'' Swan (Mary E.", Saml.^, John Box*, Bant^, Benj.^, Robt.^). He was b. in Dorchester, Oct. 12, 1855; m. in Brighton, Mass., Annie Maria, dau. of John and Louisa J. Dupee of Allston. Mr. Swan is a clerk. Res. in Dorchester. Child: (430) i. Kenneth Dupee^ Swan, b. in Dorchester, Sept., 1887. (431) Edith" Swan, (Mary E.^ Saml.^ John Box*, Bant^ Benj.^, Robt.^). She was b. Apr. 8, 1864 ; m. Feb., 1892, Joseph T. Burtsch of Tampa, Fla. He is a merchant. Res. at Tampa. Children : (431) i. Chester Swan^ Burtsch, b. Dec, 1893. (432) ii. Bertha Katherine^ Burtsch, b. Oct. 20, 1896 ; d. Oct. 9, 1900. 120 PAllT 1. (299) Sarah Curtis Bronsdon^, dau. of John Box Bronsdon (282) (John Box*, Bant^, Benj.-, Eobt.^). (299) Sarah Curtis Bronsdon^ was the fifth chihl of (282) John Box Brousdon, and was b. in Milton, Mass., Feb. 24, 1783; m. Nov. 29, 1814, Capt. Thomas Hartshorne Marsh, who was b. July 9, 1776, at Danvers, Mass., and was son of Lieut. Ezekiel and Abiah (Hartshorne) Marsh. (See Genealogy by Col. Lucius Bolles Marsh, his son — " John Marsh of Salem, and his Descendants.") Six Children, only one of whom is now living (May, 1901) : (433) i. Thonuts Hartshorne^ Marsh, Jr., b. Oct. 30, 1815, at Danvers; m. Sept., 1847, Melinda Warren; and d. at Hartland, Me., Sept. 29, 1873, aged 58 years. He left no children. Thomas H. Marsh was a well known and respected citizen. His active assistance and neighborly kindness to all who were ill or in trouble, was always to be relied upon. He was a Free Mason, and his funeral was con- ducted with Masonic honors. (434) ii. Lucius Bolles^ Marsh, b. Apr. 18, 1818, at Danvers; m. July 5, 1842, Miss Caroline E. Mann. They res. at 6 Columbus Square, Boston. They have had six children. See below. (435) iii. Sarah Curtis Bronsdon^ Marsh, b. Sept. 7, 1819, at Waterville, Me. ; m. in ]>oston, May 7, 1843, Samuel Barber Howard. They are not living. They had four children, two of whom survive. See below. (436) iv. Lydia Bolles^ Marsh, b. Mch. 2, 1821, at Fairfield, Me. ; d. of t l)neumonia, Nov. 2, 1874, at Hartland, Me. She never mar- ried. (437) V. Maru May Davenport^ Marsh, b. Oct. 27, 1822, at Fairfield, Me. ; m. Jan. 22, 1848, William D. Laws, of Hartland, Me. ; and d. Apr., 1857, at Hartland. Child: (438) i. Lucius 3V Laws, b. at Hartland, Me., 1853 ; m. Oct. 18, 1874, Mary Frances Bean ; res. at Win- throp, Mass. Ch lldren : (439) i. William Bails^ Laws, b. June 25, 1875. (440) ii. Ella M.^ Laws, b. Oct. 30, 1879. (441) vi. Ezekiel Bronsdon'^ Marsh, b. Sept. 16, 1824, at Fairfield, Me. ; m.jn Boston, Apr. 2, 1848, Margaret A. Symonds; d. Apr. 28, 1851, at the age of 26 yrs. 7 mos., of pneumonia, at Millbury, Mass. See below. (299) SARAH CURTIS BRONSDON'* m. CAPT. THOMAS H. MARSH. BRONSDON FAMILY. 121 Child: (4-1:2) i. Caroline A. B.' ]\Iars/i, h. Nov. 1, 1849; m. Aug. 31, 18G9, H. M. Ilicliarclson, and has one child : (443) i. Cafhrrine^ Ilichardso/i,h. ^o\r. o,lS7G, at Mont- pelier, Yt. Biography of (299) Mrs. Sarah C. (Bronsdon) Marsh. [By one of her descendants.] Sarah Curtis Bronsdon, born in Milton, Mass., Feb. 24, 1783, died in Hartland, Me., Feb. 24, 1855. She was married, Nov. 29, 1814, becoming the second wife of Captain Thomas Hartshorne jMarsh. At an early age she became a member of her Aunt Sarah (Bronsdon) Curtis' family, and resided in Pitts Court, now Pitts Street, and attended school at Mrs. Eawson's, the finest scliool in the Town of Boston for young ladies. When Louis Philippe, with his wife and sister, were in this cou'ntry, his wife taught ladies how to make gloves. Miss Bronsdon Avas one of her pupils. Having made the acquaintance of the family of the ]5ritish Consul, they became much attached to her, and gave her an invitation, which she accepted, to travel with them (the Consul and his wife) from Salem to Norristown, Pa., near Philadelphia, visiting points made historic in the Revolutionary War. She returned with them, making a round trip which covered some three months' time. About this time a friend of the Consul, an artist visiting this country, painted two portraits of Miss Bronsdon. One of them is a cherished heir- loom in the family, and a copy is presented in this book. She was noted for her fine personal appearance, her dignified and pleasing manner. Her description of her journey was extremely interesting, as was also her rela- tion of events of her girlhood. She remembered well the spot where the rope-walks of her great-grandfather, John Box, had been located, a little west of Hancock Street. In her childhood she picked huckleberries in the vicinity of the rope-walks on Beacon Hill, or sat upon the hill-top and watched the vessels sailing in the harbor. In the Autumn of 1818, with her husband and two children, she left the old Marsh homestead in Danvers and moved to Waterville, Maine. In 1820 they went to Fairfield, and in the early winter of 1829 they again removed to Hartland, Maine, which became their permanent home. 19-? PART I. ' Captain Thomas H. INIarsh. [Comi)ilo.l from the Marsh Genealogy.] Capt. Thoiuas H. Marsh, who married Sarah Curtis Bronsdon, received his commission as Captain from Gov. Strong in the War of 1812. Previous to 1810 he had commanded a ^Militia company in Danvers. Gov. Strong directed liim to organize a volunteer company to be used as " Minute Men," wliich he did, and this body of disciplined soldiers was held in readiness for immediate service until the close of the War, in 1815. (The removal of the family to Elaine has been noted in the Biography of Mrs. Marsh.) He resided for 40 years and 10 months in Hartland, Maine. In the Autiunn of IS.'iO he met with a severe accident, in which he had five ribs broken, and he had scarcely recovered when he had a shock, in consequence of exposure to extremely cold weather. His strong constitution enabled him to surmount even that illness, and he was restored to a com- fortable state of health. His mind did not suffer with his body, but he retained his faculties to the end of his life. He was an affectionate husband and parent. (441) EzEKiEi. Bronsdon Marsh. Col. Marsh has written the following biography of his brother Ezekiel, which was published originally in the Marsh Genealogy : Ezekiel Bronsdon .Marsh, a graduate of Hartland Academy (Maine), came to Boston and entered the employ of the Boston & Albany K.R. He, with one other person, kept the books, made out the bills, and received the money for the freight ; but soon the other man left his position, and Ezekiel did his work in addition to his own. When he commenced at the office, the freight amotxnted to about $0000 per we^, ranging from bills as low as 37^ cents up to large amounts. The year of the famine in Ireland, the freight increased to over 1^25,000 a week. Ezekiel continued to do all this work alone. About 10 to 10.30 P. M. he would receive the invoices of the freight wdiich was to reach the depot during the night. He remained at the office until he had recorded all these invoices and made out the bills ready for the morning. He usually reached his rooms at any time between 12.30 and 2 o'clock A.M. At 7 o'clock A.M. he was back in his office, ready to receive the money for the bills as the freight was delivered. The President of the road called the attention of the Board of Directors to the great increase of freight, and the still increasing amount, and also to the fact that they had two book-keepers for that department Avhen the freight was only one-quarter as great ; and he said that he feared they were overworking their present book-keeper and cashier, and suggested that another party be added. A well-known merchant, one of the Directors, BUONSDUN FAMILY. 123 made this inquiry : " Is thv work now done satisfactorily '.'" An affirmative reply was given. The well-known merchant then said: " j\lr. rresi. Marsli entered tlie bookstore at No. 47 Cornhill, known as tlie "Sabbath Scliool Depository." He remained about fifteen months. He acquired, first, a general knowledge of the books and how to bring them to the notice of customers. Committees would frequently delegate to him the task of selecting books for libraries. He kept the sales and cash books, and as there was a decided increase over the previous year's sales, the agent appeared well satisfied. In April, 1833, a new agent was appointed. Young JNIarsh had intended to remain there onl}^ until some better business opportunity should oft'er. lie accord- ingly engaged to go with Gushing, White & Co., importers of woolen goods. The new agent stated that he would not have accepted tlie appointment, except with the understanding that young Marsh was to remain. As he was hired by the week, the agent had no claim. However, at his desire, Marsh agreed to remain until May first. At that time commenced his busi- ness for life as a merchant, ''only as a boy, it is true." At the end of that year, it appeared that he and one other boy had done all such work in the store as receiving, opening, examining and placing the goods in position for selling, and had packed all goods that had been sold, carried out and delivered all goods sold to Boston customers, and young Marsh himself had sold goods amounting to over $75,000, which was more than any other one in the store, excepting a member of the firm. His salary for that year was to have been $50. They made it $75. In 1839, the firm of Cushing, White & Co. having been dissolved, on account of severe losses in the crash of 1837, Mr. Cushing invited young IVLarsh, then 21 years old, to become associated with him in the firm of Cushing, Marsh & Co. ; but, in a few months. Marsh deemed it for his own best interests to retire. This was in the Autumn of 1840, and for a short time he was with Dean, Bradstreet & Co. In 1842 he engaged as salesman with the firm of A. & G. A. Kendall & Co., who were in the same business that Cushing, White & Co. had been. He commenced in February, 1843. From time to time the older partners retired ; one, Mr. Geo. A. Kendall, died ; and, in 1846, Mr. Marsh became a partner, the style of the firm changing until it was " Whitwell, JNIarsh & Talbot," and, finally, "Marsh, Talbot & Wilmarth." Their place of busi- ness was at No. 67 Franklin Street, Boston. Mr. Marsh retired from business Dec. 31, 1870. Mil'darii History/. At the age of 18 years, in accordance with the then laws of the State, in 1836, he became a member of the •' Boston Independent Fusileers." In 1837, that company and five other companies had been formed into regi- 128 PAKT I. mental line on Boston Common, when an Irish company, " Montgomery Guards," was also about to come into line. These six companies, and also part of another company, then left the Hne, and also left the Common. The six companies were marched off under the orders of their orderly sergeants. Young Marsh, stepping one pace to the front and allowing his company to march past him, remained alone in the line that had been occupied by six companies. There were two men on guard, who, on being relieved from guard, formed in line on the left of young Marsh. Then these three men were marched in review in column as a company, after which, at noon, they were dismissed by the Colonel. These companies were all disbanded. In 1838 one of the disbanded companies, " City Guards," desired to be reinstated, or to obtain a new charter. They were told that, if they could obtain the signature of that young man who remained at his post, Sept. 17, 1837, they, ''the Governor and Council, would consider the petition." This signature was obtained, and young Marsh became a member of the new company, City Guards. In 1841 he was made First Lieutenant of the Washington Phalanx. In 1842, at the close of the year, having served all of the time required by the laws of the Commonwealth, he resigned his commission. He was immediately chosen Major of the regiment, but did not accept. In 18G1, when the Civil War broke out, some two hundred persons called upon him, desiring that he would organize and take command of a battalion of Home Guards ; and shortly after, a battalion of Home Guards, already organized, requested that he become their commander. He organ- ized and commanded the first-named battalion, and accepted of the second offer, also, and was thus in command of two different battalions, which occupied his time during four or five evenings a week, instruction and drill- ing being done then, and in the long days, late in the afternoons, on the Common. In 18G2, after the severe defeat of the United States forces in July, in the Seven Days' fight, Massachusetts called for nine months men. The Government was sorely pressed and in great peril. In that dark hour, Mr. Marsh left his family of wife and five children and his business, and recruited the Mass. 47th llegiment for nine months. This regiment was called, while recruiting, the Merchant Guard. It is thought that Col. Marsh was the only merchant to command a ]Massachusetts regiment. He had, previous to that time, spent several years in solid study of everything appertaining to military matters, and concerning the care of troops. The knowledge he possessed of the care, drill and field movements of European armies, and of various branches of the service, gave him con- fidence in his ability to care for and instruct his officers and men, and for the performance of any duties likely to be assigned to him. BRONSDON FAMILY. 129 The regiment was completed in about six weeks. He was chosen Colonel, Oct. 30th, 1802, and, with his staff, was mustered into the United States service Nov. 7 ; was ordered to New York, and left Massachusetts on Nov. 30th. He assumed command of the U. S. forces, then at East New York, early in December, and which comprised the following, viz. : 47th, 49th, 50th and 53d IVlass. Regts., 175th N. Y. and 25th N. Y. Battery. About Dec. 19th he was ordered to command a portion of Gen. Banks' secret expedition, and sailed in the steamship " IMississippi " out of New York on Dec. 22, 1862, at 4 P.M. His orders were, " Thirty-eight hours directly out to sea ; " then first seal broken. "Three days' sailing towards the Gulf;" second seal broken. '' Go to Ship Island." Dec. 30th, arrived at Ship Island and found orders to sail to New Orleans. A brief history of the command in New Orleans is given by the Adju- tant General in his report for 1863, and this was condensed by the Rev. Dr. Marsh, of Amherst, in his speech at a gathering of the Marsh Family, when Col. INIarsh was also present. Dr. Marsh spoke as follows : " The 47th Regt. was recruited chiefly by Lucius B. Marsh, Esq., a well- known and respected merchant of Boston, and commanded by him. This regiment was a part of Gen. Banks' secret expedition, and with other troops, also under Col. Marsh, left New York on Dec. 22, 1862, under sealed orders. ''After commanding certain posts in defence of New Orleans, La., the Colonel was ordered, on the 19th day of May, by Gen. Sherman, to go to Camp Parapet, the chief defence, and to assume command of the U. S. forces stationed there, consisting of portions of the 12th Maine, 4tli Wisconsin, 128th New York, 15th New Hampshire, 26th Connecticut, 6th ^Michigan and 12tli Massachusetts Batteries, Cos. B and C, First Regt., H. A. N. Native Guards, two companies 42d Massachusetts, two companies Metropolitan Cavalry, and also, temporarily, the 1st Texas Cavalry and 1st Regt. Engi- neers, Native Guards. " The Colonel recruited a company of colored men to be used in the swamps, and which became the nucleus of the Ind. Regt. of Engineers. "The line of defences was about thirty miles. The immediate defences consisted of the Parapet, two and one-half miles long, situated on the east side of the river, running from the INIississippi to the swamps and Lake Pontchartrain, and, on the west side of the river, Fort Banks; there was also a canal and military road to be guarded and scouted for a distance of twelve to seventeen miles through the swamps to the lakes. " With a large force of Confederates in front of these defences, this important post was held under peculiar circumstances during the siege of Port Hudson, and New Orleans was eifectively defended. " Gen. Sherman made particular mention of the 47th Regt., and of its Colonel, for 'marked ability,' and Gen. Banks was 'certain that these arduous sacrifices and honorable triumphs would not be forgotten by the country and the Government they had helped to preserve.' " 130 PAIiT I. Services to the State in 1861. On the 28th of April, 1861, the Quartermaster-General of Massachusetts came into Mr. Marsh's office to make inquiries as to who manufactured mili- tary equipments. He was told that the Adjutant-General, or the Quarter- master-General, at Washington, could give him full particulars. He then said : " We have just received this telegram from Washington : ' We have no equipments ; cannot inform you who makes them.' " Mr. Marsh remarked : '' This is passing strange ; however, Colt and Sharj), of Hartford, will know." At the request of the Quartermaster-General, Mr. Marsh went the next day to Hartford ; saw Colt; purchased 1200 revolvers for $11 apiece, less 10 per cent, (they were selling in Boston for $15). Saw Sharp. He stated that Mr. Gaylord, of Chicopee, Mass., was a large manufacturer of equip- ments for the United States Government, and also for the South, and he had made a contract for 200 Sharp's rifles each week, at $28, less 10 per cent., contract to be ratified by the Governor and Coimcil, and to be con- tinued so long as the State desired. He had none on hand, having sold the last 6000 to Fremont's agents to be shipped to St. Louis, and had also sold largely to the South. Mr. Marsh lost no time in getting to Chicopee, arriving there in the evening. Saw Mr. Gaylord, who informed him that he could make 1000 sets a week, and that he had a contract Avith the United States for 500 sets weekly. His price was $4.00 per set. Mr. Mai'sh asked : " Will you make 10,000 sets for Massachusetts at $4.00, less 10 per cent.?" He replied that the discount must be confidential, as it was in the case of the United States Government. The next morning Mr. Marsh reported to the Governor's Council. The contract for the 10,000 sets of equipments was confirmed, and they were divided among some four States, whose troops Avere waiting for equip- ments and arms, viz. : New Hampshire, Ohio, Illinois and Indiana, besides 2000 for Massachusetts regiments. The contract for Sharp's rifles was not promptly confirmed. After a week or so, Mr. Marsh was directed by the Council to write to Mr. Sharp. The result was, that after waiting the time agreed upon. Sharp had taken a contract for all he could make (300 a week) for an indefinite period, at $36, without any discount. There were some 5000 Wilson rifles made in Vermont ; they were a short, strong and heavy rifle, similar to the Harper's Ferry rifle, that had been seized going South ; they had no bayonets, and no attachments for using the same. BRONSDON FAMILY. -[^1 Mr. ]\[arsh constructed a steel arrangement which was put on tliese rifles, and contracted for 5000 sabre bayonets, and they jiroved a very effect- ive weapon. It Avas found tliat nearly all the Springfield rifles, as \vell as the light artillery cannon, had been sent South. The North was destitute of cannon and rifles. There were the Springfield smooth-bore muskets of (U-lOO calibi'e ; some of them had been rifled by the Government, but they recoiled so heavily as to be considered unsafe, and therefore unfit for service. ]\Ir. Marsh had one of these muskets rifled witli less than a two-thirds twist, and the grooving made very light, sufficient only to give enough twist to the ammunition to conduct the ball straight to the mark. He made an experiment, and succeeded in firing the ball through a ten-inch solid i)iece of timber. He spoke of his success in this matter at the State House. In the Summer of 1861, three men called at his office, bearing a letter from Governor Andrew, who introduced them as a committee sent l)y the Governors of Ohio and Illinois, and perhaps Indiana. They were in pursuit of rifles for the soldiers of their States, and the Governor had suggested that Mr. Marsh might be able to give them important information. He showed the Springfield musket, which was in his oftice, to them, and they immediately said : " 0, we can get enough of those smooth-bore muskets ! Our soldiers will not take them." He then showed them the nature of the rifling, its depth, the nature of its twist, which differed mate- rially from the Government process that had been pronounced a failure. He told them, moreover, that there was ample aunnunition in the arsenals, made when it Avas expected that the Government rifling would be a success. Having given these gentlemen in writing an account of his process of rifling the muskets, they immediately went to Cincinnati, Ohio, and employed a large steam-engine manufacturer to make the alterations, and the Spring- field musket was made not only satisfactory to the soldiers of the West, but also one of the most reliable and powerful rifles in the service. When a portion of the 4th Wisconsin Regt. was under his command at New Orleans, Col. Marsh noticed that they were armed with those rifles. At the close of the year 1861, the Governor and Council desired to pay Mr. INIarsh for his services, to which he replied : " I cannot afford to receive pay. I only wish I could have been of greater service. I feel that the Government has a claim for every service I can render. Had my business permitted, I should have felt it my duty to have been in active service in the field ; and, if need be, I hold myself ready to leave my business and family when that time comes. Having military education and experience, you may rely upon me for active military service." The Governor and Council passed the following vote of thanks : 132 PART I. Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Executive Department. Council Chamber. Boston, Nov. 8, 1861. Ordered : That the thanks of the Executive Branch of the Govern- ment of Massachusetts be tendered to Lucius B. Marsh for his very valuable services to the State in the procurement of Arms and Military Equipments. These services were rendered as a patriotic duty to the country, and wholly without compensation, and entitle him to the gratitude of the State and to that of every loyal citizen. And it is further ordered, that this generous action of Mr. Marsh be recorded upon the Books of this Council, and that a copy of the record be transmitted to him. Adopted. Secretary's Department, Boston, Feh. 28, 1888. A true copy. Henry B. Pierce, Secretary of the Commonwealth. Compliments of Henry B. Pierce, Secretary of the Commonwealth. Additional Reminiscences nf "War Tljnes." [By Col. Marsh.] [Notes and Reminiscences while in the Army, written for the Bronsdon Genealogy.] Nov. 7, at 12.20 P.M., the field officers and most of the staff officers, with the Colonel of the 47th Mass. Kegt., met at the State House, Boston, and were mustered into the United States service. The day was a very stormy one, the wind blew a gale, and the snow came fierce and fast. The officers were to dine with the Colonel (Lucius B. Marsh), and were in the act of sitting down at table when the door-bell rang furiously. A messenger had arrived with orders that the Colonel should at once proceed to the camp at Boxford and assume command, and hold an election of field officers for the 50th Regt. When he arrived at camp, thirteen inches of snow had fallen, and it was still storming, and the wind was terrific. The tents were empty, and only the cold, bare ground for the men to lie upon. Hay was expected to have been supj^lied that morning, but, on account of the storm, it had not arrived, the parties declining to deliver it until the weather cleared up. It was then dusk, and in the blinding snow-storm the Colonel sent three of his Captains to demand the imijiediate delivery of that hay ; BRONSDON FAMILY. 133 if necessary, they were ordered to yoke the oxen and bring the load of hay to camp. This proved effectual, and the hay was utilized at once by being placed in the tents. The election of Colonel, Lieut. Colonel and Major was then held, but less than ten officers took part, all the others being absent from camp. On reporting at the State House, orders were received to move the regiment from Boxford to Readville on Sunday (the day but one following). The Quartermaster of Massachusetts promised that the barracks should be in good order, and each one provided with stove and fuel, ready for a fire ; also, that ten days' rations should be in readiness at the commissary depart- ment at the barracks. The snow-storm changed into a severe rain-storm. Sunday morning, before daylight, the Colonel started for Boxford ; but just previous to leaving his residence at 54 Temple Street, Boston, he despatched a letter to the Honorable Mayor Whitman, informing him that he was about to move his regiment, and should reach the Maine Depot at about one o'clock P.M., and made a request for refreshments, with hot coffee. His messenger was a policeman, who said the Mayor should have the letter without delay. At one o'clock the regiment arrived at the Maine Depot, wet and cold. Four companies had no overcoats. Mayor Whitman was on hand. The depot was not then open to the public on Sundays, and advantage had been taken of this and tables set for the men. These tables were choicely and abundantly supplied with the best of food, sent from the Tremont House, American House, Revere House, and one or two others of the best city hotels. This abundance was supplemented by hot coffee for the thousand men there present. Mayor Whitman made a report of what he had done since he received the Colonel's letter at 7 o'clock that morning. The three days of storm had resulted in alight patronage of hotel guests, consequently the overstock of food was cheerfully donated. The Mayor opened the Market House and took out ten barrels of provisions and a supply of cheese. The regiment had all the time which was desired to do justice to the bounti- ful supplies, which they owed to His Honor the Mayor's timely efforts. When leaving Boxford, the Colonel had requested the United States Quartermaster to furnish the regiment with one day's ration, which he declined to do, on the plea that it was only a few hours' journey to Read- ville, where everything would be provided. The Colonel claimed his right of one day's ration for his regiment, stating that it was no business of the Quartermaster's in regard to their destination. As there was still some demur, the Colonel had finally to say, in language not to be misunderstood, that in case of further refusal, he should give orders to his Quartermaster and Commissary Sergeant to take the rations by force. The following will show how important this one day's ration became ; for when, after having marched from the Maine depot to the Providence depot through a heavy 134 PART 1. rain and wind, the streets full of snow and water, the regiment arrived at Readville late in the afternoon, no stores, no wood in the barracks, and, worse than all, no ten days' rations, as promised on Saturday, were there. The Quartermaster-General of Massachusetts said that he was unable to find anyone who was willing to convey the stores to Readville, on account of the severity of the weather on Saturday and Sunday, and they did not reach there until Monday afternoon at 4 o'clock. Thus it becomes apparent, had not the Colonel known his rights and insisted upon them, and actually threatened the , Quartermaster, who was a Captain in the United States Army, in order to obtain that one day's ration, the regiment would not only have suffered from the want of food, but, wet and cold as they were, would have become disappointed and demoralized. The regiment afterward passed through many tight places, and many times their Colonel had to face officers of high and low rank in their behalf, and he was never known to come out second best. He took his regiment from Massachusetts and brought it back, and saw to the proper mustering out and payment of each man in all the companies. The regiment never lost a ration during the whole time it was in the United States service. (435) Sarah Curtis Bronsdon^ Marsh (Sarah C.^ John'^Box^, Bant^, Benj.'-, Robt.^). Third child of (299) Sarah Curtis (Bronsdon) and Thomas H. Marsh ; was b. at AYaterville, Me., Sept. 7, 1819 ; m. in Boston, May 7, 1843, Samuel Barber Howard ; he b. in Madison, N.Y., Sept. 16, 1814. She d. in Revere, Mass., July 24, 1887. He d. in Boston, June 2, 1890. The above were m. in Grace P. E. Church, Boston, by the Rev. Thomas M. Clark, now Presiding Bishop of the P. E. Church in the United States. Children : (458) i. Francis. Samuel^ Hcmutrd, b. in Boston, Mar. 25, 1845 ; m. Mary J. Smith. Res. at Beachmont. See below. (459) ii. Thomas Henri/ Howard, b. in Cambridge, June 1, 1846 ; d. Oct. 2:5, 1846. (460) iii. Thnmas Hartshorne^ Howard, b. in Boston, Oct. 3, 1847. Res. in Boston. See below. (461) iv. Charles Adin^ Howard, b. in Roxbury, Jan. 1, 1854 ; d. in Boston, May 24, 1862. He was a child of unusual promise. The following tribute to the mother of these children has been prepared for this book by one of the sons : " The surviving sons count it a sacred duty to bear witness to the self- sacrificing devotion of a loving, faithful mother. Her sphere of activity was the home, which she sanctified by a God-fearing life, and used every BRONSDON FAMILY. 135 endeavor to instil such principles into the hearts and minds of her children. After she had been called to the presence of her dearly-loved Saviour, her former pastors wrote of her as an example of the j,'odly-minded ; her cliil- dren call her blessed, and look forward to that day when partings shall be nomore."— T. H. H. (458) Francis Samuel" Howard was b. Mar. 25, 1845 ; m. Apr. 17, 1874, Miss Mary J. Smith of Boston, and soon after went to Beaehniont, a part of the town of Revere, Mass. For more than thirty years he has been con- nected with the printing house of Smith & Porter, now the Thomas 1*. Smith Printing Co. He belongs to the United Order of the Golden Cross, May- flower Commandery of Revere, Eagle Lodge, 106, Eagle Commandery, Ko. 8, Knights of Pythias of Revere. He was elected to the School Committee of Revere, and Avas chairman in 1899. (459) Thomas Hartshorne Howard, brother of the above, was b. Oct. 3, 1847. He belongs to the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, 38 Chambers Street, Boston. This society is engaged in Christian and philanthropic work. Mr. Howard served under the Rev. Phillips Brooks, and is the longest of any employe in the service of Trinity Church. 136 PART I. (300) Elizabeth Box Bronsdon^, clau. of John Box Bronsdon (282) (John Box^, Bant^, Benj.-, Kobt.^). (300) Elizabeth Box Bronsdon^, sixth child of John Box Bronsdon, of Milton, Mass., was b. Nov. 7, 1784, and d. in Boston, May 30, 18(38. She was named for her father's mother. She m. May SO, 1819, John Gould LoRiNG, coppersmith, who was b. at Hull, Mass., Apr. 5, 1788 (see Loring Family in A])pendix), and d. in Boston, Jan. 22, 1853. Children, three in number, b. in Boston, were : (462) i. Elizabeth Box^ Lorlnr/, b. on Pitts Street, Jan. 31, 1823 ; m. Aug. 10, 1848, Benjamin Stone Codman, who was b. Feb. 22, 1816, and d. Feb. 20, 1894. No children. ]\Ir. Codman, for many years senior member of the firm of Codman & Shurtleff, 13 Tremont Street, was a graduate of Harvard Medical College. Mr. and Mrs. Codman are buried at Mount Auburn Cemetery. (463) ii. John GnuW Lorhuj, Jr., b. Feb. 25, 1825; d. Oct. 20, 1873, in Boston, unmarried, at the age of 48. Mr. Loring fitted for college at New Hampton Academy, graduated at Brown Uni- versity, studied law at Harvard College. He was a man of fine scholarly attainments, but his health was unequal to the practice of his profession. (464) iii. Mtirtha Jane^ Loring, b. at 9 'Causeway Street, Boston, Mar. 1, 1827 ; m. George Allen Potter, May 22, 1856, who was b. in Salem, Oct. 27, 1825, and was son of Jesse and Susan (Punch- ard) Potter (the Punchards were an Ipswich family), and d. in Brooklyn, N. Y., July 4, 1889. Mrs. Potter had d. in Brooklyn, Aug. 15, 1887. Children : (465) i. EUzahi'th Lorlmf F otter, b. in Boston, May 16, 1859. (466) ii. John LaruKp Potter, b. in Brooklyn, N. Y., Oct. 21, 1862 \ m. Apr. 23, 1890, Elsie R., dau. of James R. Lott, of Brooklyn, N. Y., and had : (467) i. Loi-i?uj VanderbiW Potter, b. June 14, 1891 ; d. Sept. 7, 1891, and is buried at Greenwood Cemetery, New York. (468) iii. Martha Georgina'' Potter, b. in Brooklyn, N. Y., . Apr. 9, 1864; d. Sept. 22, 1864. Buried at Mount Auburn Cemetery. (469) iv. George Herbert'' Potter, b. in Brooklyn, N. Y., Oct. 25, 1867. Mr. Potter is an accomplished musician. He res. in Brooklyn. BKONSDON FAMILY. 137 BlOGKArilY OK jMk.S. LOUING. (oOO) Elizabeth (or Betsey, as she was called) was named for her ,l;i and- niother, Elizabeth (or Betsey) Box Hronsdon. From her earliest childhood she manifested unusual force of (duiracter, combined with executive. ability, and this led her to engage in a business enterprise in Boston by means of which she accumulated property. Her intelligence and good breeding won her many friends. When first married to Mr. Loring she resided on Pitts Street, in the house adjoining the mansion owned and occupied l)y her father's sister, Mrs. Sarah Curtis. Afterward the Lorings removed to 19 Causeway Street, having purchased that estate, and they resided there several years, until time's changes induced another removal, this time to No. 7 Shawmut Ave- nue, and there Mr. Loring died, in 1853. His place of business was at the corner of Portland and Merrimac Streets in the year 1825. AVhen the mill-pond was filled, he purchased land in that locality and erected what was then looked upon as a very large building for the accommodation of his business. He made copper pumps,, then in universal use, and also manufactured "stills" for distillery uses. Mr. Loring was for more than forty years a member of the Christian Church, and was a Deacon. He was a true gentleman, kind-hearted and benevolent, and esteemed and respected by all. They have few descendants. Biography of Captain Potter, [Who m. (464) Martha .J. Loring.] Capt. Potter was in the China trade. In his youth he went to sea as cabin boy, and rose rapidly to the position of first mate of a ship, and then captain and part owner of a vessel. He was fortunate in his voyages, and brought large profits to the owners. He, with one or two others, built the ship " Hotspur." He made some very successful voyages in the " Hotspur,'^ which, from its fine sailing qualities, gained a reputation as a remarkably stanch vessel. Capt. Potter, retiring from seafaring life, went to Brooklyn^ X. Y., to reside, and engaged in business in New York City as an importer of wares from China and India. Mrs. Potter made several trips in the " Hotspur " Avith her husband. 138 PART I. (30aker), was b. in Milton, Mass., Apr. 9,. 1798 ; m. July 6, 1814, Elizabeth, dan. of Samuel and Rachael (Fisher) Holmes, who was b. in Stoughton, Dec. 4, 1788. Mr. Bronsdon d. as the result of an accident, Feb. 15, 1832, and his widow d. Oct. 5, 1846. Cliildren, b. in Milton : (470) i. Eliza Bronsdon\ b. Mar. 20, 1815; d. Feb. 10, 1866; single. (471) ii. Mary Ann Lillie Bronsdon^, b. June 4, 1817 ; d. Sept. 28, 1887 ; single. These sisters were much beloved by family and friends. (472) iii. Fisher Bronsdon^, d. in infancy. (473) iv. John Bronsdon\ Jr., b. , 1819; d. Apr. 17, 1891. He m. Emily A. , who is living in Illinois. He took up land on a Revolutionary land grant, which he derived from John Box Bronsdonl He lived in Warren Township, 111. No children but an adopted daughter, who married and went to California. (474) V. Rebecca Bronsdon\ b. June 23, 1823; m. Jan. 31, 1847, Edwin Gay of Stoughton, who was b. Mar. 26, 1809 ; d. May 19, 1885. She d. May 2, 1890. Mr. and Mrs. Gay had four chil- dren. See below. Biography of (302) John Bronsdon. Mr. John Bronsdon was a farmer in Milton, He always lived on the old Bronsdon place. Although he tilled the land, there was nothing of the rustic about him. His urbane and polished manner caused friends to remark, ■"John Bronsdon is a natural-born gentleman." He built the present old Bronsdon house in 1814, and sold it later to his brother Phineas, and removed next door to a house which his father bought of the Clapps, and called the " Joe Tucker place." It was afterwards the property of the Holmes family, and now of W. E. C. Eustis of Milton. Mr. Bronsdon's death was 'tragic and lamentable. While engaged in getting out logs on Blue Hill, a large log rolled over him, killing him instantl}'. He was much respected, and a favorite with his townsmen, and his death was universally deplored. His widow died in Milton, but his children all left town, and he has now no lineal descendants. A grandson resides in Stoughton by the name of Gay, and he has inherited the old Box family Bible, the history of which follows the names and records of the descendants of Mr. Bronsdon. BRONSDON FAMILY. 139 Jolin Bronsdou was supposed to liave been named i'or liis i'atliei-, but neither the records nor his grave stone substantiates this. His tomb stone bears this inscription : Erected in memory of Mr. Jolni Bro)is) ^ ^ \ K^ 1^ ^• ^ X V ^j^ar^ ^Nn.> ►»-^ -_,wi .J i I "4 ^1 ;ie I g p. K a. — en g^ •'?s m w wo td HI WW X . ^o BRt)NSDON FAMILY. 141 On the death of Mrs. Bishop, without chihlren, the I'ible was restored to the Gay family, being now in the care of Mr. E. Bronsdon Gay of Stoughton. It came to Mrs Sarah Curtis, who presented it to John I^ox Bronsdon, in 1814, from Mrs. Deborah Box, widow of John Box, Jr. Mrs. Box died in 1814, and her niece, Mrs. Curtis, settled her small property, and it was doubtless her request that the namesake of John Box sliould become owner of the Bible. The Inventory of Mrs. Deborah Box mentions one old Bible. 142 PART I. (303) Phinehas Bkonsdon^ (John Box*, Bant^, Benj.^, Robt.^). (303) Phinehas Broxsdon was the ninth child of (282) John Box Bronsdon atid Rachel, his wife, and was b. Apr. 6, 1790, in Milton, Mass. ; m. Feb. 7, 1817, Mrs. Rachel (Marston) Lee of Gloucester. Phinehas Bronsdon d. Dec. 28, 1861, aged 71 years, and his wife d. July 1, 1872. They are buried in Milton Cemetery. Children, b. in Milton : (482) i. James Edverdus Bronsdon^', b. July 5, 1818 ; m. Delia Sanborn. Two children. See below. (483) ii. Thomas Marston Bronsdon^, b. Apr. 23, 1820 ; m. Margaret Scan- Ion. See below. (484) iii. Phinehas Bronsdon^, Jr., b. Mar. 5,1822; m. Sarah K. Loud. See below. (485) iv. Margaret Matilda Bronsdon^, b. Jan. 11, 1824; m. Creighton W. Parker. Two children. See below. (486) V. Elijah Bronsdon^, b. Jan. 4, 1829 ; was a soldier in the Civil War ; unmarried. (487) vi. Susan Elizabeth Binney Bronsdon^ b. Jan. 29, 1831 ; d. Oct. 2,. 1871 ; single. (488) vii. Edwin Aiujustus Bronsdon^, b. Apr. 30, 1833 ; d. June 19, 1842,. of scarlet fever. (489) viii. Charles Bronsdon^, b. Aug. 12, 1835; m. Abigail ]\l. Eddy in 1860. Mr. Bronsdon d. Feb. 16, 1864, and Mrs. Bronsdon d. Aug. 9, 1895. They are buried in Milton Cemetery. Charles Bronsdon belonged to Co. I, 38th Regt., M.V. M., and was a member of Post 102, G. A.R. One daughter : (490) i. Lillian Louise Bronsdon', b. Dec. 16, 1873. She res. at Hartford, Conn. (303) Phixehas Bronsdon^, Sr. He was of an inventive and mechanical turn, and under Mr. Babcock of Milton, whose apprentice he was for seven years, learned iron-working in all its branches. He then built a shop on his place and hired men to work for him. Persons would drive many miles to employ him. There were seven stages passed that locality for many years, and all the work of shoeing the stage horses, and iron-work repairs on the stages, was given to him. He was an athletic man, and could swing a sledge-hammer in each hand,. BRONSDON FAMILY. 143 simultaneously, with ease. He was also a fleet runner, and delighted in the exercise of his powers. Like all the Bronsdons, he enjoyed hunting; and like all the boys near the Blue Hills, he early learned to dread the rattle- snakes which infested the place, and to him, more than any person, is due their partial destruction, for there are still a few of them lurking among the rocks thereabouts. When a boy learning his trade, he fashioned for liimself a pair of tongs which he designed for the capture of snakes. Armed with these, he would, when opportunity offered, visit their haunts, and when lie perceived a reptile, would overtake it by running swiftly, and before it could coil itself, lie would seize it with the tongs and dash its life out against a tree or rock. Sometimes his cousin, Joseph Kussell Bronsdon, joined him in tliis sport, and in 1844, when Joseph paid a visit to Milton, they indulged in many reminiscences of their youthful sports, and nothing made so great an impres- sion upon the mind of one youthful auditor as these wonderful snake stories. Phinehas Bronsdon was born in the old house, built 1730 and demol- ished 1830. It had a long roof, two stories in front, one story in the rear, eight windows in the front, and was painted yellow. It was nnicli more picturesque than the plain house built by Phinehas' brother John, and which he purchased. The old well is still in existence, and stands in front of the location of the old house. In the lifetime of John Box Bronsdon and his sons the houses were embowered in cherry trees, which bore choice fruit and were the occasion of much entertaining in cherry time, when all the relatives who could, arrived upon the scene, prepared to enjoy the luscious " white hearts, red hearts and black hearts," as the cherries were called. This was the occasion of much happiness to Phinehas, who delighted in ''company." He was kind-hearted and generous, and stray dogs and Indians, or other waifs, usually drifted to his hospitable board, and would have remained indefinitely, but for others in the family who were not so easily imposed upon. Mr. Bronsdon suffered much from rheumatism during his last years, and was unable to attend to his business. He sold his shop, which, removed to Robbins Street, is now a dwelling-house. AVhen he died he left no debts, and his widow was comfortably provided for. She was an excellent wife and mother. As she grew old, everybody adopted her as " Grandma." It was the time of the Civil War ; two of her sons were soldiers, and she found her chief happiness in knitting and sewing for the " boys in blue." Her hands were never idle. Her' death was peaceful and resulted from old age. She was one of ten children, while her father was an only child, adopted by his mother's brother, Robert Elwell of Gloucester, whom he accompanied into service in the Revolutionary War, performing a boy's duty. Her parents were Charles Glover and Dorcas (Lee) Marston. 144 PART I. (483) James E. Bronsdon^, son of (303) Phinehas (Phinehas^, John Box*, Bant^, Benj.^, Eobt.^). (482) James Edverdus Bronsdon^, b. in Milton, July 5, 1818 ; m. Oct. 9, 1866, Delia E. Sanborn, dau. of William Sanborn (mother's maiden name Murch) of Maine. She was b. Aug. 23, 1843 ; d. May 3, 1879, and Mr. Bronsdon d. Jan. 8, 1899, aged 80 yrs., 6 mos. He resided with his oldest son, and his last days were happy and comfortable. James Bronsdon was all his life an " out-door " man. He had, pre- eminently, the gifts of the hunter and guide. He was a skillful woodsman. He was generous to a fault. His wife was a person of superior intellectual gifts. Mr. and Mrs. Bronsdon are bur. in Milton Cemetery in the family lot belonging to their sons. Children oE James and Delia (Sanborn) Bronsdon : (491) i. William Cushvian Bronsdo7i' (James E.", Phinehas^, John Box*, Bant^ Benj.-^, Pvobt.^), b. in Milton, July 14, 1868 ; m. by Eev. Roderick Stebbins, Unitarian minister, Jan. 15, 1896, Annie Josephine Hickey, who Avas b. in Milton, and dau. of James and B. (McDermott) Hickey. They res. near the Blue Hills, Milton. (492) ii. March Marston Byonsdon' (James E.^ Phinehas^ John Box*, Bant^ Benj.2, Robt.^), b. in Milton, May 18, 1870; m. by Rev. Roderick Stebbins, at the Unitarian Church, Milton, Feb. 27, 1895, Emma Louise Fredericks, dau. of William Augustus Fredericks (b. in Boston) and Rose (Hauser), and grand-dau. of John and Annie Hauser of Wurtemburg, Germany. Mrs. Emma L. Bronsdon was b. Feb. 15, 1876, in Milton. Three Children : (493) i. Ifurch Marston Bronsdon% b. Dec. 20, 1895. (494) ii. James Henry Bronsdon^, b. Sept. 26, 1897. (495) iii. Alice Dorothy Bronsdon^ b. Sept. 2, 1899. William C." and Murch M. Bronsdon'^ are associated in the express business, "Bronsdon Brothers." Their Boston offices are at 67 Franklin Street, and 15 Merchants Row. They also own and conduct the depot car- riage business at Readville. The name of Bronsdon re-appears in Merchants Row after an absence^ of more than a century and a half. Murch M. Bronsdon occupies a house which he has built on land in Milton purchased by his great-grandfather, John Box Bronsdon*, in 1774. BRONSDON FAMILY. Hi (483) Thomas Makston Uuonsdon'' (riiixKiiAs''. John r.ux'. I'.wt", Benj.'-, Rokt.^). (483) Thomas M. Bronsdon", b. Apr. 23, 1820, was the second child of (303) Phinehas^ and Rachael Bi-onsdon of Milton ; m. Feb. 4, 184'.», Mi.s.s Margaret Scaulon, who was of an educated Irish family of good posi- tion in Ireland; her father was a man of letters, and an instructor of youth. j\Ir. Bronsdon d. Sept. 17, 1858, and his wife d. Nov. 8, 18G3. Five Children — only three obtained : (49G) i. Helen M(tri. lS(;2 ; in. Nancy 1 1 Ti_i * -*M/ii>i. • r* I'll who d. suddenly in 180.'>, leaving five children ; no records obtained. Names (if Children : Susan ^, James^, Agnes*, Frederick^ and Frank*. (498) iii. mha Jane BronMhnP, b. Nov. 19, 1854. ]\Ir. Thomas M. Bronsdon*^ was managing his fatlier's place in ^lilton. While driving from Boston to Milton, he noticed sometliing amiss with the running gear of his wagon. He alighted in order to adjust the difficulty, ami while doing so, a large heavy team came up behind, starting his horses so that he had not time to clear himself, but was caught in the wheel. He had a heavy load of lumber, and. was so injured that he died in a very short time. His widow engaged in business, and kept a store in Boston for several years. (496) Helex Maria Broxsdon" ( (483) THOMAs^ Pl^^•KlIAs^ John- l*.n.\\ Bant*, Ben.j.-, Roi5T.»). She was b. Dec. 24, 1850, in Boston, and m., Dec. 24, 1870, George Russell Jackson, who was b. Mar. 17, 1844, in Scotland, and was sou of Rev. Thomas and Helen (Russell) Jackson. He was closely allied with Boston journalism for many years. Mrs. Jackson d. Oct. 27, 1889. and Mr. Jackson cl. Nov. 18, 1898. Thirteen Children (five d. young, names not obtained) : (499) i. Burhara Helen^ Jaclson, b. in Boston, Oct. 10, 1871 ; m. Kdward Kelty, Jan. 1, 1891. He is of Scotch descent. Children : (500) i. FAlwanl' Kelty, Jr., b. Aug. 9, 1893 ; d. young. (501) ii. John Edieard'' Kelty, b. Dec. 20, 1895, in Cam- bridge. 10 146 PAUT i. (502) iii. Annabel Elizabeth^ AVZ/^y, b. Dec. 18, 189G, in Arlington. (503) iv. Caroline Helen^ Keltn, b. Apr. 24, 1898, in Arlington; d. Jan. 26, 1900, aged 1 vr. 9 nios. 2 days. (504) ii. George ]\Icl>. (505) iii. Margaret Ellzalieth^ Jaekaon, b. Jan. 2. 1875 ; ni. in Sonierville, Apr. 6, 1893, David J. McCarthy, son of John ^IcCarthv. and b. Oct. 1, 1871. Children, b. in Sonierville: (506) i. WlUiam LewW MeCarthij, b. Aug. 17, 189<;. (507) ii. Dar'id Cieorge'^ MrCarthg, b. Aug. 5, 1898. (508) iii. James Broiisdon" MeCarthtj, b. Oct. 29, 1899. (508^0 S iv. Eda-ard Jaekson" MrCarthij, b. Nov. 4, 1901. (508/>j { V. Alice Bronsdoii" MrCarthij, b. Nov. 4, 1901. (509) iv. WiUiani TJunnas^ Jachaon, b. Nov. 15,1877; was in the First Heavy Artillery during the Spanish War ; is now in the 46th Mass. Eegt., which left Presidio, Cal., Nov. 6, 1899. for the Philippine Islands. He is a cor})oral, and has received honor- able mention for bravery, in Co. G, 46th Regt., U. S.V. Wni. T.^ Jackson ni., rlune 24, 1901, in Boston, Annie T., dau. of James and Sarah E. (Nelson) lUu'klev, of Sonierville, b. Oct. 2, 1874. (510) V. Edward HerforKJackson, b. Jan. 21, 1879. (511) vi. Marg Alice^ Jarhson, b. Sept. 2, 1883. Pes. at Cambridge with her great-annt, Mrs. Geo. Harris. --10X •••' Z.;-^"/ ^7s f- t/'^c/t.so//, b. Aug. 9, 1889. Both died in a few weeks (olS) VI n. Elizabeth^ ^ > o > and their mother died also. She was a devoted wife and mother. (484) Phtnehas Bronsdon^ Jr. (Phinkhas^, John Box*, Bant*, Ben.j.-, Pop.T.i). Phinehas Bronsdon, Jr., was the third child of (303) Phinehas^ and Rachel (Marston) Bronsdon, and was b. in IMilton, Nov. 5, 1822 ; m. in Boston, Oct. 17, 1847, by Rev. Sebastian Streeter,* Sarah King Loud, b. in Pittston, Me., Jan. 28, 1828, and d. in San Francisco, Cal., Dec. 29, 1879. Phinehas Bronsdon, Jr., m., second, in 1884, Mrs. Sarah A. Keyes of New Orleans, La. They res. in San Francisco, Cal. * Mr. .Streeter luul the re])utatiou of marrying more (>oiip]es than aiij' othor minister in Boston. He married 118 couiiles in ]84:j. lie was a Uuiversalist and very popular. BRONSDON FAMILY. 1 I Childn')/, all by the first wifo ; fivo h. in T.nstnii iiiid tlircc in S;in Francisco, Cal. : (514) i. /'>ro7is(/oii\ d. in infancy. (olo) ii. Aurora King Bronsdoii', b. Oct. 20, l.S")! ; ni. in San i-'ranci.sco, Cal., Dec. 10, 1874, Geo. T. \V:ilk<'r. and d. |''.d.. LM, ISTS. leaving daughter : (516) i. Ivy Wdlker^. b. 1; one child d. before his mother (Frankie). (521) vii. Milton Hou-ard Bronsdon', h. June 5, 1804; ni. at Uig Spring, Xeb., Apr. 20, 1890, Elizabeth, dau. of Alexander Morrison, and b. Dec. 9, 1871. Two children; see below. (522) viii. Uli/sses Phineas Bronsdon', b. A})r. 25, 1870; ni. June G, iS'.d, Miss Grace Ellenwood. Biography. (484) Phinehas Bronsdon®, Jr., when a young man, went to Boston and was employed as foreman by the City Forester. Afterward, having an inherited ability for mechanics, he studied engineering. In 1857 he was engaged in the construction of the first horse-railroad (from Boston to Charlestown). In 1858-9 he removed with his family to San Francisco, Cal. Thus the Bronsdon race was 200 years in spanning the country between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as Phinehas is the first of record among the lineal descendants of Robert Bronsdon^ to reside on the shores of the Pacific. In San Francisco he built the first street-railway on the Pacific slope, called the " Omnibus Railway," and others in Portland, Ore., Los Angeles. Cal., etc. He was Supt. of Street Railways in San Francisco for several years. His first wife, Sarah K. Loud, was an amiable and refined woman, and her death was a misfortune to her young family. She was of '' May- flower " ancestry. Her father, Charles Loud, was b. probably in Pittston, Me., as he lived there in his early youth. He was son of Capt. Jacob Loud of Weymouth, Mass., a Revolutionary hero, who, after the war, went to Maine in 1790. He was descended from Elder William Brewster of "Mayflower*' fame. Charles Loud m. Jane Adelaide Sarah King. b. in New York City in 1806 and dau. of William King, a native of England, a mariner, who was lost at sea the same year his daughter was born. 148 PART I. (521) MiLTOx Howard Bronsdon" (Phinehas, Jr.*, Phtxkhas^ John Box^ Bant", Benj.^ PvObt.^). Milton Howard Bronsdon was the seventh chikl of (484) Phinelias Bronsdon*, Jr., and Sarah K. (Loud), and was b. in San Francisco, CaL, June 5, 1804 ; m. at Big Spring, Neb., Apr. 20, 1890, Miss Elizabeth Morrison. Res. in Providence, Pv. I. Two chiklren b. in Providence : (523) i. MUfon Howard Bronsdon^ Jr., h. Dec. 11, 1895. (524) ii. Hope Bmnsdnn^ b. Friday, Nov. 16, 1900, at 11.50, P. M. Mr. M. H. Bronsdon learned the business of his father (constructing engineer). His first work of importance was done at the age of 21 years, while foreman of construction of two cable railways at Los Angeles, Cak, and afterward as master mechanic of one of them. He remained in Los Angeles from April, 1885, until May, 1889, when he went to Denver, Cok, as manager of the Denver Tramway for seven months. He resigned his position in order to accept the office of superintendent of Providence Cable Tramway of Providence, R. I. In March, 1895, the road changed to electric motive power, and Mr. Bronsdon was appointed engineer-in-chief for the Union R.Pv. Co. of Providence, B.I., which position he now holds. In 1895 he designed and built the Inclined Counterweight System (his own patented invention) on the steep incline of College Street, Providence. In 1896, he built a similar railway at Morgan Park, 111. In 1898, he built the Inclined Railway Systems on St. Anthony's Hill, at St. Paul, Minn. He was one of the organizers of the "Providence Association of Mechanical Engineers," of which he was elected president for the year 1901. Mr. Bronsdon has given some valuable lectures before this Associa- tion, illustrating them by scientific experiments. He is a thirty-second degree Free Mason. INlr. Bronsdon has mani- fested much interest in the family genealogy, and has defrayed the expense of a research among English records, with a view to ascertaining the parentage of Robert Bronsdon^ the founder of the family in America. (485) Margaret Matilda Bronsdon* (Phinehas^ John Box*, Bant", Benj.^ ROBT.I). She was dau. of (303) Phinehas Bronsdon, and b. in Milton, Jan. 11, 1824 ; m. by the Rev. Edward Beecher, in Boston, Apr. 4, 1848, Creighton Whitmore Parker, Sr., b. on Fort Hill, Boston, Mar. 10, 1824, son of Capt. William and Camilla (AVheelright) Parker. Capt. C. W. Parker d. Mar. 10, 1864, in the Straits of Rio (Java), and is interred in the Eng- lish grave yard at Singapore, Farther India. (See Appendix, Parker.) (48S) MARGARET M. (BRONSDON^ PARKER, AND (526) MARGARET E. PARKER. BRONSDON FAlsriLY. 1 |0 Mrs. Parker res. at 28 Lowell Street, J.ynii. She has Uftii ;iii actiM; member of the Unitarian Churcli at Lynn for 2") years, and is a life-Ion^' Unitarian. She owns the homestead of her Bronsdon ancestors in Milton, purchased previous to the Revolution. Children, h. in Boston : (525) i. Cn'ii/htou irhitiinira' Farker, Jr., b. Uc-t. 2o, 1854 ; iii. A[)r. (», 1877, Harriet Moncrief Kinmonth Fitts ; b. in Jloston, July 6, 1849, and dan. of Bobert Berkeley and Harriet Allen (Marsters) Fitts of Boston. Mr. Fitts was a ])i'inter and pub- lisher at 22 School, and afterwards at 26 Washington Street, in the middle of the nineteenth century. He d. in I'hil- adelphia, Pa., Oct. 2, 1871. Mr. and Mrs. Creighton W. Parker have res. at 28 Lowell Street, Lynn, for nearly a quarter of a century. Child: (526) i. 31<'r;/(iret EinjiieHiic'^ F'arker, b. at 28 Lowell Street, Lynn, Aug. 30, 1880; is now a stu- dent at Boston University, College of Liberal Arts, Class of 1903. She is descended on her mother's side from the Lees of Manchester and Marblehead. The Cambridge Lees were of this race, which is related to the Lees of Virginia. (527) ii. Garhdin FreeiiKui Basscff' Farker, b. May 1, 1850; m. duly 25, 1884, jVIartha Marie, dau. of Dwight Sanderson and Patience A. (Aldrich) Elliott of Southampton, and b. Apr. 29, 1861. Child: (528) i. Miirion. Abbie^ Fnrkrr, b. July 21, 1887, at Oneco, Conn. (527) Cx. Bassett Parker d. June 19, 1901, at West Willington, Conn., and was buried at Milton, Mass., June 21. He was a man of excellent character, and beloved for his genial and kindly disposition. He suffered greatly from rheumatism for a few years before his death, but was able to attend to his duties as a telegrapher until tlie day he died. He was for- merly in the retail shoe business at Florence, Mass. 150 PART I. (304) Hannah IUionsdon^ (John Box*, Bant^, Bknj.-, Rout.^). (o04) Hannah Bkonsdon^, tenth child of (282) John ]^ox Bronsdon and Abigcail (Baker), was b. in Milton, Mass., Aug. 27, 1792; m. Apr. 21, 1816, at Easton, Mass., Tliomas Allen, Jr., <' yeoman and cordwainer,'' who was b. in Canton, Mass., May 25, 1792, and d. Jan. 31, 1858, in Milton. Mrs. Allen lived to the age of 88 years, and d. in Dorchester, at 1420 Dorchester Avenue, May 8, 1881. Children, b. at Walpole, N. H. : (529) i. Hevnj Thomas'^ Allen, b. May 22, 1818 ; m. Sarah Carpenter, and resided at Walpole, N. H., where he d. Nov., 1883. He was a farmer. Children — (we have not their full record) : (530) i. Wdliavi' Allen, m. and went to Peoria, 111. (531) ii. Nellie'' Allen, m. Comstock. (532) iii. Stephei}} Allen. (533) ii. Lydi'i Vose^ Allen, b. Mar. 13, 1820 ; m. John Brown, who lived but a short time. She d. in Dorchester, Nov. 8, 18G7. No children. She was a second wife, and her husband had children. (531) iii. Abi;/ail Baker^ Allen, b. ^lay 5, 1822 ; d. at Dorchester, Jan. 30, 1901, of cerebro-spiual meningitis. She had been an invalid for many years, and resided with her brother's widow, who cared for her. She is buried in the family lot at Milton Cemetery. (535) iv. Mar// Harrison^ Allen, b. Nov. (5, 1824 ; m. first, AVm. Holmes, who d. Dec. 14, 1855 ; m. second, John Calder, whom she out- lived, and d. Jan. 10, 1874. (536) v. Phineas Bovenport^ Allen, b. Dec. 26, 1826; d. , 1876; m. Olive H. Frost. Seven children. See below. (537) vi. Rebecca Buggies'^ Allen, h. in Milton ; d. in infancy. Biogkaphy of Mk. and Mrs. Allen. (304) Hannah (Brousdouj Allen was of a very lively temperament. She married Mr. Allen, who was a farmer, and they went to Walpole, N. H., to live, where they had purchased a farm at the solicitation of old Mr. Nathaniel Davenport of Milton, a neighbor of John Box Bronsdon, Hannah's father ; Mr. Davenport represented the purchase as an attractive invest- ment, but this proving to be a mistake, the young people returned to Milton, in 1832 the richer, only by a family of children. Mr. Allen's health failed, and he finally died in consumption. He was a kind husband, and his death left Hannah in a very sad frame of mind, but her natural cheerfulness returned in time. She removed from Milton to Dorchester, her daughters BUONSDON FAMILY. 151 acc'oiiipauying her. Afterward Lydia, marrying, took licr motlirT to live; Avith her, and her ohl age was comfortable and contented. Mrs. Allen used to relate that, when a girl, she had the honor of .shaking liands with Jerome Bonaparte, brother of the great Najjoleon. wlio stayed for a l)rief time at the Atherton Tavern, near lier father's home in .Millon. (536) Phixeas Davenport" Allen (HA^^■A^^^ -John Box', I'.wt', Ben.j.-, ROIJT.I). Phineas Davenport^ Allen was b. Dec. 2(>, l.SL'C. in \Val])ole, N. II. ; m. Olive Howard Frost of Hancock, Me. Mr. Allen was a coppersmith and plumber, and had a good business. He was a member of tlie Boston Fire Department, and held the position of an engineer. He was a favorite with his friends, generous and whole-souled. His bravery was un(]uestioned. He d. in 1876 as the result of an accident. Cltildreu : (ooS) i. Charles Oscar''' Allen, b. in Hancock, i\Ie. ; m. Letitia Keid. It was by the courtesy of Mr. Allen, who res. in Campello, that we were favored with a photograi)hic copy of the old ])ortrait of our ancestor. Bant Bronsdon, the father of John r)OX Bronsdon. Oil I' Sou : (539) i. lii'iirij h-rliKf Allen., b. , 187o. (.")40) ii. Haiuutli l)(n-vii [lorf' Allen, b. in Dorchester; m. George W. Frost. See below. Six children. (541) iii. Em mil Fruiires'' Allen, b. in lloxbury ; m. and d. without children. (542) iv. Ella Frost"' Allen, b. in Koxhury ; m. Clarence Kedonnet; eleven children, lies, in West Koxbury. (54o) V. PJiuieas Daren porP Allen, Jr., h.'ux \U)xb\\vy \ m. ; two children. See below. (544) vi. Olloe HowanV Allen, m. L. Roath. He d. m Dorchester. No children. (545) vii. (iei>rge William? Allen ; unmarried. Three others d. in infancy, of whom we have not the names. Mrs. Roath and Mr. (J. W. Allen res. with their mother in Dorchester. (543) Phineas Davenport' Allen, Jr. (Phineas^ Hannah\ John BoxS Bant^ Benj.^, Eof.t.M. Phineas Daa-enport" Allen, Jr., was b. in Koxbury; m. Adelaike Boyd of Machias, Me. Children : (546) i. John Eaijene* Allen, b. , 1892. (547) ii. Arthur Ormsby^ Allen. 152 PART I. (540) Hannah Davenpokt'' Allen (Phineas®, Hannah^, John Box^, Bant^, Benj.'-^, Robt.^). Hannah Davenport'^ Allen m. George W. Frost, 3 879. He is cap- tain of Engine 41, Boston Fire Department. ChildreJi : (548) ( i. R'f/ph Daveajiort" Frost, h. Apr. 20, 1880. (549) j ii. Nelson Edgar^ Frost, b. Apr. 20, 1880 ; d. at the age of 2i mos. (550) iii. Mail Althen^ Frost, b. Apr. 26, 1882. (551) iv. Ardella Rose^ Frost, b. Feb. 1, 1886. (552) V. Harriet Beatrice^ Frost, b. June 6, 1889. (553) vi. George William' Frost, Jr., b. Feb. 20, 1892. BRONSDON FAMILY. ^r^^ (306) William Bant Bronsdon^ (John Box'*, Bant", Hkn.i.-, K(ii;i.>). William Bant Bkonsdon^, the twelfth ami youngest cliild of ('JSL') John hox Bronsdon of Milton, Mass., was b. Sept. 21, 179S; ni. Nov. L'7, 1825, Elizabeth Bowman, (lau. of James and Susanna (Hunt) Bowman of Milton, and b. June 16, 1S0;:5. She d. Nov. 23, 18G0, and William llant Bronsdon d. Nov. 9, 1859. ChUdre7i : (554) i. Rebecca Boivman Ilnji/sdoii^, b. June 8, 1829; d. Sept. 5, 1829. (555) ii. WUJhtm Bant Jlnwsdon^ b. Feb. 26, 1830; d. Jan. 31, 1,S57. " A very promising young man." (556) iii. Elizabeth Bojvdkui. Bronsdon^, b. May 20, 1831; m. dune 22. 1875, Daniel M. Farnum. No children. Kes. in Dorchester! (557) iv. Abigail Bronsdon^, b. Apr. 17, 1833; d. Sept. 22, 1842. '< A wonderfully sweet little singer." (558) V. Herman Bronsdon'\ b. Mar. 29, 1835; d. Sept. 23, 1836. (559) vi. Frederick Herman Bronsdon^, b. June 23, 1838 ; m. Jan. 3, 1866, Martha Faxon Leeds. See below. (559) FuEUEKicK H. Bkonsijon*^ (Wm. Baxt'^, John Box^, Baxt'', Bexj.'-^, Robt.^). FuEDEiMCK H. Bkonsuon'^ was b. in INIilton, June 23, 1838; m. dan. 3. 1866, jMartha Faxon Leeds, who was b. in Melrose, Nov. 8, 1843, and (lau. of Frederick Leeds (b. in Dorchester) and Elizabeth Coolidge (fJohnson) Leeds (b. in Portsmouth, N. H.). Tliree Cli'ddreii : (560) i. ]VUU<()ii CoMldije liroiisdoii', b. Oct. 24, 1866; d. dune 15, 1870. (561) ii. IsaJ>rl ]Vhif red Bviv,sdnii',h.^e^t. 2,1^11. (562) iii. Helen Louise Brnnsdon' , 1». Aug. 14, 1875. Biockaphy. (306) William Bant Bronsdon was a baker ; his shop was on Kandolph Avenue, Milton. He lived on Canton Avenue. At one time the family lived in the old Glover house next their father Bronsdon's. Kattlesnakes were not infrequent intruders in the neighborhood. One day Mrs. Bronsdon glanced out of her door at her little girl playing in the door-yard, when slie saw something that startled her immeasurably. The little child was sitting perfectly still, gazing at a slender, waving head that peeped at her witli bead-like eyes from over a log. Her mother knew it instantly for a rattle- 154 PART T. snake, but she kept her presence of mind and forced herself to call softly to the child, thus drawing her attention with some difficulty, and finally getting her at a safe distance, when she caught her up and bore her out of danger. On another occasion she was piling faggots in the brick oven, preparatory to lighting them, when a crotalus, or rattlesnake, fell from the wood upon the floor. Some lively scrambling resulted, and her husband, responding to her affrighted cry, rushed in and killed the unwelcome visitor. Mr. and Mrs. Bronsdon were both fine singers. He led the church choir for years, and she was a member of it. The young people delighted in meeting at his house for a "sing'" in the long winter evenings. Upon one occasion the time passed so pleasantly that it was unheeded. At last some one discovered that it was " one o'clock in the morning.''' A sudden depart- ure ensued, and the guests hurried home to relieve the suspense of their wondering and anxious parents. William Bant Bronsdon was a favorite with his brothers and sisters, partly because he was the youngest (they called him " Bantling " for a pet name), and also because he was a most lovable man, seeming with his name to have acquired the traits of the genial old Bants who were always favor- ites in their day and generation. His brother John's wife was named Elizabeth, also, but always called Eliza, or rather 'Liza. The young people always spoke of the two aunts as "Aunt 'Liza John" and "Aunt 'Liza Bant." The death of their son, William Bant Bronsdon®, was a sad affliction to his parents. He was all that was good, and devoted himself to his parents' happiness and comfort in a most unselfish manner. The surviving son, Mr. Frederick Bronsdon, res. in Dorchester. He is a plumber. Mrs. Farnum also res. in Dorchester. BRONSDON FAMILY. 155 {285) Benjamin Bronsdon* of Milton, Mass. (Bant», Bkn.i.-, i;..iiT'.). [Known as Capt. Bkxjamix Bkonsdon. See also (B 14) Part- 11. | Bknjamin Bkonsdon'' was the fourth cliild of (IIH")) Capt. Haiit Bronsdon and wife Elizabeth (Box) and grandson of -lohn an) ii. U'll/idw. Heiirii^ Lrland, Jr.. b. Jan. 10. 1S'.»r». (r)97) ii. Ili'iir;/' Ldirsoii, b. Oct. 12, ISal. (598) iii. Williaii/ Gibhons"^ L(nrsn/i, h. Awii;. 27 , '[^•'tT. (599) iv. C/nn-Ies G'thhmis' Lairsm,, b. Feb'. Id, 1 S(;2 ; d. .Mar. 27. 1SC,4. 160 PART I. (386) Bant Bronsdon^ Jr., of r)Oston, (Bant^, Bex.t.^, Koht.^). [See also (B 15) Part II.] (286) Bant Bronsdon*, Jr., Ava.s the fifth child of (196) Capt. Bant and Elizabeth (Box) Bronsdon, and was b. in Boston, and bapt. at King's Chapel, Jan. .30, 1760 ; m. first, Mary , Avho d. i\Iar. 25, 1784 ; sec- ond, Dkkohah, dau. of Ebenezer and Mary (Jenkins) Jackson, b. Mar. 1, 1761; d. June 12, 1801. Her parents were members of the " olde North Meeting-house " Society, and she had a brother who was prominent in J->os- ton town affairs. Children, by first wife : (600) i. Bant Bronsdon^, b. Feb. 14, 1782, bapt. at Trinity Church; d. single; was a tin-plate worker, and had a shop on Washing- ton Street. His baptism is recorded " Bant of Bant and Mary Broadesden, Nov. 17, 1782." By second wife : (601) ii. Harriet Adallne Smith Bronsdon^, b. Nov. 25. 1786; m. Mr. Peter Vallette, and res. in Boston and Cincinnati, 0. Sev- eral children. See below. (602) iii. Sarah Carter Bronsdon^, b. June 25, 1789; m. Andrew Allison; had children. See below. (603) iv. Mari/ Jackson Bronsdon^, b. Feb. 9, 1791 ; m. David C. Allison. For children, see below. (604) V. Joseph Bussell Bronsdon^, b. Mar. 12, 1793 ; removed to Mon- treal, Can. For his family, see below. (605) vi. Ainie Lincoln Bronsdon'', b. May 2, 1795; m. Sept. 16, 1821, Lore Brigham of Dunbarton, N. H. She d. Dec. 23, 1884 ; was many years a widow, and a very lovely disposition. Her hus- band left her well provided for. She had one child, d. in infancy. (606) vii. George Washington Bronsdon^, b. Feb. 23, 1798 ; d. young. (607) viii. Faschal Smith Bronsdon^, b. Oct. 23, 1799 ; m. twice, and d. at Brighton, Me. Had one son, Leroy P., who d. single. (286) Bant Bronsdon*, Jr. He inherited the physical characteristics of his Box ancestors. His grandfather and uncle Box died of consumption. Mr. Bronsdon had a protracted illness, which prevented him from carrying out his plan of building a rope-walk, for which he had bought land on Leverett Street, Boston. He had learned the trade of a rope-maker from his Uncle John Box, Jr. Mr. Bronsdon's first wife may have been Mary BRONSDON FAMILY. Itil Ballard, as he bought out the Ballard heirs. His home was on Leverett Street, ant^l attached to the house was a very pleasant, large, old-fashioned garden, shaded with trees. This laud was afterward built upon, and the neighborhood is now very different from those days. His death is recorded in the Cohimhlan Centwel of Apr. 13, 1799, as follows : <' In this Town Mr. Bant Bronsdon aged 39. His funeral will proceed from his dwelling house at Bartons Pt. tomorrow afternoon at 5 o'clock. Relatives and friends are requested to attend." The Bronsdons owned a pew in the Baptist Church on Salem Street. Mrs. Deborah Bronsdon undertook the administration of her husband's affairs, but died, and the estate was settled by Mrs. Curtis, sister of Mr. Bronsdon, Saml. Chamberlain of Boston, Joseph Newell of Charlestown, both merchants. Mrs. Curtis and Mr. Chamberlain were guardians to the children, and managed the estate so Avell that it increased greatly in vahie during the minority of the heirs. The children were brought up in the families of their uncles and aunts on the Bronsdon side. Deeds in Suffolk Registry, bearing dates 1792, 1795 and 1796 of the Bant Bronsdon estate. William and Sarah (Ballard) Hawes conveyed to Bant Bronsdon "a part of dwelling house of which the other part belonged to Mary Russell, Bartholomew Ballard and Daniel Ballard. Josiah Batcheller and wife Hannah (Ballard) also conveyed their part of the property which they had purchased of Elijah Ballard of Beverly and that portion set off to Mary Ballard." Hannah Ballard also deeded '' Flatts at West Boston," on Leverett Street, to Bant Bronsdon. The last of this estate was sold by Joseph Russell Bronsdon in 1844. The vacant land had been built over, a narrow street. Copper (now Brighton) laid out, and other improvements made by the guardians of the children for their benefit. The history of these children is given in detail in the follow- ing pages. 11 162 PART I. (601) Harriet A. Smith Bronsdon^ (Bant^ Bant^, Benj.^ Robt.^). (601) Harriet Adaline Smith Broxsdok^ Avas the oldest daughter of (286) Bant BI•onsdou^ Jr., and his wife, Deborah (Jackson). She was b. in Boston, Nov. 25, 1786 ; m. Sept. 5, 1806, Peter Vallette, son of David and Abigail (Milliken) Vallette of Boston. Peter Vallette was b. in Boston, May 27, 1783 ; d. in Cincinnati, 0., Oct. 3, 1825. Mrs. Vallette d. at Cincinnati, 0., May 27, 1865. They were m. by Eev. Thomas Baldwin of Boston; public records give Oct. 19, 1806. Children ; records taken from family Bibles ; only one is now living (May, 1901) : (608) i i/e7i?y FaZZe^e, b.'in Boston, July 11, 1807; d. in Cincinnati, 0., June 8, 1879 ; m. Sally Julia Carley. Seven children. See below. (609) ii Harriet' Vallette, b. in Boston, Jan. 9, 1809 ; d. at Louisville, ^ ^ Ky., June 10, 1881 ; m. Oswald McDonald. Eight children. See below. (610) iii Joseph' Vallette, b. in Boston, Jan. 21, 1811 ; d. in Cincinnati, U., Oct. 13, 1824. . (611) iv. Benjamin Ayers' Vallette, b. in Boston, Dec. ly, 1813; d. m (jincinnati, 0., May 13, 1832. (612) v. Henrietta Maria.' Vallette, b. in Cincinnati, 0., May 9, 1815; d. July 14, 1842 ; single. nioi- (613) vi Frederic Augustus' Vallette, b. in Cincinnati, 0., Feb. 9, 181 < ; d. at Glen Elder, Kan., June 25, 1890. See below. (614) vii. Adeline' Vallette, b. Dec. 2, 1818 ; d. in infancy. (615) viii Edward' Vallette, b. in Cincinnati, 0., Oct. 23, 1820 ; m. Selina Richards ; no children. Res. at Albion, 111. (Aug., 1900). (616) ix. Noble Smith' Vallette, b. Aug. 9, 1822; d. aged 1 yr. _ (617) X William Peter' Vallette, b. in Cincinnati, 0., May lo, 18wO ; d. at Albion, 111., Nov. 13, 1896 ; m. Laura Williams. Four- teen children. See below. Biography. (601) Mrs. Harriet A. S. Vallette lost both parents by death when quite young. Mrs. Curtis became her guardian. As her father left an estate, his children were provided for. They were received into the homes of their father's relatives. Harriet (or, as sometimes spelled, ''Harriot"), it is thought, went to reside with her Aunt Curtis. (See Sarah Bant Bronsdon.) Her property was managed by Samuel Chamberlain, merchant, of Boston, and Joseph Newell, merchant, of Charlestown, during her minority. At about 20 years of age she married Mr. Peter Vallette, who, on his father's side, was of Huguenot descent. His mother was the daughter of Mr. BKONSDON FAMILY. IQ^ Thomas Milliken of the North End <.C r..,ston, who was forccl t,. leave Boston on account of liis royalist principles. (See Appendix, Vallettes.) In 1814 the patrimony of Mrs. Vallette, consisting of real estate on Leverett Street, was sold, and, with her husband and four children, she emigrated to Ohio, then " a land of promise " for New Englandcrs. The Vallettes settled at Cincinnati. The journey Avas toilsome and Oliio seemed very mucli out of the world, but the Vallettes had plenty of courage, ^\v. \'allette liad been in the business of '' coach-trimming " in Boston. From the old Direc- tories Ave learn that his place of business was opposite the Common, on what is now Tremont Street. The Common then embraced Park Street and tlie Granary Burial Ground. Coach-trimming included the adjustment of leather and metal adjuncts to wheeled vehicles: also painting, as well as upliolster- ing the inside of coaches in cloth, etc. Tt was an excellent business, and Mr. Vallette would doubtless have achieved success had he remained in Boston ; but, when he left, business was exceedingly dull and money very scarce. His wife's brother had gone to Canada, her sisters were married and living in New Hampshire and Maine, and her youngest brother was at his Uncle William Bronsdon's, in Worcester County. The " West " was tlie subject of conversation everywhere, and rosy stories told of golden opportu- nities there. Mr. Vallette, however, did not live many years after he settled in Cincinnati, and Mrs. Vallette was left widowed Avith a large family of children, the youngest less than six months. Although greatly depressed by the loss of her excellent husband, Mrs. Vallette met her trials with fortitude. Her oldest son, Henry, who Avas 17 at the time of his father's, death, was very like him, and Mrs. Vallette found in him a helper, as well as a solace to her attiiction. Her home Avas in plenty and comfort witlk this son in the closing years of her life. Mrs. Vallette Avas fond of useful reading, and inspired like tastes in the minds of 'her children. With her husband, she Avas charter member of the First Baptist Church in Cincinnati. Mr. Vallette Avas a deacon, and ]\Irs. Vallette kept up her interest in church all through her long and useful life. She abounded in reminiscences of her youth in Boston, and sometimes told the story of her mother Vallette's adventures in Lexington just before the battle, Avhich is related, probably by Mr. Vallette's sister, in a letter to the Transcript, a Boston paper. (See Appendix, Vallette.) It has been remarked of JNIrs. Vallette, that she was inclined to assert her own opinions to the exclusion of others' ; but without confidence and aggressiveness, the world Avould make slow progress. There Avas mueli in lier life as a pioneer to develop self-reliance. Slie Avas certainly an admi- rable woman, who did her duty in times which demanded action as Avell as simple endurance, and thus proA^ed herself worthy of the respect and grati- tude of her numerous descendants. 164 PART I. (608) Henry« Vallette (Harriet A. S.^ BANT^ Bant^ BENJ.^ Bobt.I). (608) Hexry Vallette, oldest child of (601) Harriet A. S. and Peter Vallette, was b. in Boston, on Nassau Street, July 11, 1807, and consequently was about 7 years old when he removed to Cincinnati, 0., with his parents. He m. in Cincinnati, Sally Julia Carley, Sept. 25, 1828, who was dau. of Sally Gano (Thane) and Dr. William W. Carley of Blenheim, N. Y., where she was b. June 9, 1812, and d. in Cincinnati, July 30, 1846. Mr. Henry Vallette d. June 8, 1879. Children, seven in number, all b. in Cincinnati, 0. : (618) i. Julia Eliza' Vallette, b. Oct. 11, 1829 ; d. Feb. 23, 1830. (619) ii. William Carleif Vallette, b. Apr. 30, 1831 ; d. July 9, 1861, at Washington, D. C. He m. Oct. 6, 1858, Rosalind A. Smith, dau. of Elizabeth (Walton) and Caleb Blood Smith (Secretary of the Interior in President Lincoln's Cabinet). Mrs. Rosalind A. Vallette d. about 1865, Mr. Vallette having d. before her. They left one son : (620) i. JVilliano H.^ Vallette, b. in Cincinnati, 0., Oct. 20, 1860 ; m. in Philadelphia, Pa., Pannie Bent Caldwell, who d. in Philadelphia, Mar. 23, 1899 ; W. H. Vallette d. in Kansas City, Mo., Aug. 7, 1896. (621) iii. Hennj Miller'' Vallette, b. Nov. 19, 1833 ; d. in infancy. (622) iv. Heni'ij Thane'' Vallette, b. Feb. 5, 1837 ; d. in infancy. (623) V. Laura'' Vallette, b. June 23, 1840 ; m. Mr. John A. Gano. See below. (624) vi. SaraW Vallette, b. Sept. 20, 1842 ; m. Mr. Henry Mills Day. See below. (625) vii. Julia/ Vallette, b. Feb. 27, 1845; d. Aug. 15, 1866 ; m. Richard B. Wright. See below. Biography of (608) Henry Vallette. Mr. Vallette was a prominent citizen of Cincinnati, Ohio, where he resided for about sixty-five years. When a young man, he engaged in the hat and fur business ; but later in life was a banker, with Roland Ellis. He had just severed this business connection, intending to form a new one, when his wife died, in 1846. She was a lady of singularly lovely character, and his grief at her loss so prostrated him that he relinquished his plans at the time and never afterward engaged in active business. He was a man of a high sense of personal and business honor, quick to resent any imputa- tion on either. He was endowed with strong affections, though reserved in their expression, had great family pride, and ever showed himself most BRONSDON FAMILY. 1G5 generous as son, brother and parent. Although unable to go to scliool after he was fourteen years old, yet, as he possessed naturally a strong intellect and an excellent memory, he became a well-informed and intelligent man. (633) Laura' Vallette (Henry", Harriet A. S.^ \',\\\\ \\\st\ Ben J.-, RoBT.^). (623) Laura Vallette, fifth child of (G08) Henry and Sally .1. (Carlcy) Vallette, was b. in Cincinnati, 0., June 23, 1840; m. June 15, ISSO, Mr. John A. Gano, b. May 17, 182G, and son of John A. and Catherine M. (Hubbell) Gano. Mr. Gano d. Jan. 15, 1898. Ch ildren : (626) i. Jo/ui Vallette^ Gano, b. July 3, 1881, in Xow Vork City; entered Harvard University, Class of 1904. (627) ii. Kafherme Vallette^ Gano, h. Jan. 30, 1884, in Cincinnati, O. Mrs. Gano res. at College Hill, Cincinnati, O., but is at the present time sojourning (1901) in Cambridge, with her children. Mr. Gano was a suc- cessful business man. He was a distant cousin of his wife's, being descended from the New York family of Gano, who were noted during the Revolutionary War for illustrious services, and have many professional and scholarly men among them. (634) Sarah'' Vallette (Henry®, Harriet A. S.*, Bant*, Bant', Benj.'-, Robt.^). (624) Sarah Vallette was the sixth child of (608) Henry and Sally J. (Carley) Vallette, and was b. Sept. 20, 1842, in Cincinnati, 0. ; m. Dec. 21, 1868, Henry Mills Day (see Day genealogy), and resides in New York City. Children, h. in New York : (628) i. Laura Vallette^ Day, b. June 15, 1869. (629) ii. Henry Vallette^ Day, b. May 11, 1873. (630) iii. Sherman^ Day, b. Sept. 7, 1874. (635) Julia" Vallette (Henry®, Harriet A. S.^ Bant*, Bant^ Benj.^, Roirr.^j. (625) Julia Vallette was the seventh and youngest child of (608) Henry and Sally J. (Carley) Vallette, and was b. Feb. 27, 1845, in Cincin- nati, 0. ; m. Aug. 27, 1865, Richard B. AVright. ■ Mrs. Wright d. at Nashville, Tenn., Aug. 15, 1866, and Mr. Wright d. at St. Louis, Mo., Sept. 26, 1886. 166 PART I. Child : (631) i. Julian Vallette^ Wright, b. Aug. 13, 1866, in Kashville, Tenn. ; m. in Milwaukee, i\Iich., Oct. 12, 189o, Kathevine Mason, dau. of Mary White (McClure) and George Gates Bellows. They have two children : (632) i. Valh'fte'* Wright, b. July 31, 1896, in Cincin- nati, 0. (633) ii. Thane Belloy-s^ Wright, b. May 1, 1899, at Mil- waukee, Mich. (609) Harriet®, Vallette (Harriet A. S.^ Bant*, Bant^, BENJ.^ EOBT.^). (609) Harriet® Vallette, second child of (601) Harriet A. S. (Bronsdou) and Peter Vallette, was b. in Boston on Portland Street, Jan. 9, 1809, and was six years old when she removed to Cincinnati, 0., with her parents. She m. Aug. 17, 1829, Oswald McDonald of Cincinnati, who was b. in District of Columbia. He d. away from home in 1850. Mrs. McDonald d. at Louisville, Ky., June 10, 1881. Children : (634) i. Julia^ lIcDonald, b. June — , 1830 ; d. young. (635) ii. Elizabeth'' McDonald, b. June 17, 1831 ; m. C. T. Wells. See below. (636) iii. OsioaW McDonald, b. Aug. 6, 1835 ; d. Oct., 1835. (637) iv. Lxicy Ann' McDonald, b. Aug. 10, 1838 ; d. Sept., 1839. (638) V. Oswald' McDonald, b. Jan. 30, 1840 ; d. Aug., 1862. Mr. 0. McDonald belonged to the 6th Kentucky Regt., C. S. A. This regiment, with the 8th and 9th, formed the famous '' Orphan Brigade." He was wounded at the battle of Shiloh. While on the march, to Baton Eouge, in August, 1862, he was drowned (smothered in quicksand). (639) vi. Charles'' McDonald, b. May 1, 1841 ; d. Mar. 19, 1870, was in the Southern army. (640) vii. Hennf McDonald, b. Aug. 6, 1835 ; d. May 11, 1888 ; m. Oct. 24, 1865, Elizabeth Pvose Evans, dau. of Mr. S. Evans, of Welsh descent. She d. Sept. 5, 1888. Two children, one of whom d. young in 1889 ; the other : (641) i. Silas^ McDonald, a dentist, m., and has children. Cannot obtain his record. (642) viii. Henrietta Vallette'' McDonald, b. Mar. 22, 1845; m. W. R. McKenzie. See below. BRONSUON FAMILY. IHT (635) Elizabeth Vallette'' McDonald (Hakkikt'', IIahimi t A. S.', Bant^ Bant', Bknj.^, Rokt.\). She was the second chikl of (009) Harriet (Vallette) and Oswald ]\[cDonald, and was b. in Cincinnati, 0., June 17, 1831 ; m. at Louisville, Ky., Nov. 1, 1849, Columbus Theodore Wells, who Avas b. in .IclTerson Co., Ky., Dec. 5, 1824. He is a dealer in marbles, of the firm of Wells lirothors, Madisonville, Ky. Mr. and Mrs. Wells celebrated their golden wedding, Nov. 1, 1899. To them have been born twelve cliildren, ten of whom are living, three at Waco, Tex. ; one in Christian Co., Ky. ; one at Hanson, Ky. ; and the other live at Madisonville. Children : (643) i. Katie Valeria^ Wells, b. Sept. 9, 1850 ; m. K. M. Glover. See below. (644) ii. Theodore Henri/ Wells, b. Apr. L'9, 1852; m. H. L. Triml)le. See below. (645) iii. Horner'^ Wells, b. Apr. 9, 1854 ; m. Ruby McGee. See below. (646) iv. Charlie^ Wells, b. Aug. 29, 1856; d. June 30, 1875. (647) V. JS77ima^ Wells, b. Jan. 14, 1859 ; m. J. W. Gooch. See below. (648) vi. John Frank^ Wells, b. Jan. 4, 1861 ; m. Queen Jackson. See below. (649) vii. Minnie Lee^ Wells, b. July 30, 1863; m. J. A. Cheek. See below. (650) viii. Ifajor James^ Wells, b. Oct. 4, 1865 ; m. Annie V>. Sugg. See below. (651) ix. Henrietta^ Wells, b. Sept. 21, 1867 ; res. with parents. (652) X. Sallie^ Wells, b. Apr. 16, 1871 ; m. Thomas Warren Rash, Sept. 19, 1894, who d. at Los Angeles, Cal., :\Iar. 11, 1896. (653) xi. Walter S.^ Wells, b. Mar. 5, 1873 ; res. with parents. (654) xii. Jacob Wirt^ Wells, b. Sept. 22, 1875; res. with parents. Golden Wedding of Mr. and Mrs. C. T. Wells. Nov. 1, 1849 — 1899. Mr. and Mrs. Wells were married in Louisville, Ky., by Rev. J. S. Kirtly, who is still living. This Golden Wedding was celebrated in a fitting manner. Cards had been issued to friends, and at tlie appointed time these guests began to arrive at the home of the bride and groom of fifty years ago. Their beautiful home was on this occasion more beautiful than ever. It was handsomely decorated, and the couple were all smiles to welcome those who came to honor the event. While it is true there are wrinkles on the faces, and the hair has whitened on the heads of these good people, yet their hearts are still young and warm. 168 PART r. Tlie guests were invited out to a luncheon, and not Epicurus could have gotten up a more tempting array of good things than did the ones who prepared tlie food for the guests. Friends did not forget to send to them many tokens of kind remem- brance. Silverware lined Avith gold, and some of pure gold, besides glass and other gifts of value, were sent. There were presents from friends both far and near, valued for their intrinsic worth, but still more on account of the motives that prompted the giving. Mr. Wells and his bride looked well on this occasion. They were happy. For fifty years they have traveled on life's journey side by side. While perhaps at times the pathway was not entirely smooth, yet the two together surmounted all obstacles. They have reared a large family of children ; twelve have been born to them, ten of whom remain on earth to bless their declining days. Not one of these has ever brought aught but hotior and happiness to their parents. While Mr. and Mrs. Wells are yet vigorous for their years, it is certain that the most of life is behind them. The shadows are lengthening; they have ascended to the top of the hill of life, and are going down the decline that leads to the separation of things of this world from the world to come. The step is not quite so elastic, the eye not quite so bright, the hopes not quite so high as Avhen, a half century ago, these two started out in life together. Very few people have been blessed as these have been. Others have been bereaved of companions. Others, who started out on the same journey in life with them, have dropped out of the race. They have been blessed and have, in their turn, been a blessing to others. May their last days be their brightest and happiest and their best. — From Glenn^s Graphic, Madi- sonville, Ky. (643) Katie Valeria^ Wells (Elizabeth V.'^, Harriet®, Harriet A. S.^, Bant^, Bant^, Benj.^, Eobt.^). Katie Valeria Wells, dau. of (635) Elizabeth V. and C. T. Wells, was b. Sept. 9, 1850 ; m. at Calhoun, Ky., Sept. 9, 1870, Eobert M. Glover. Mrs. Glover d. Feb. 18, 1897. Six Ch ildreii : i^iho) i. Lizzie" Glover, b. Nov. 21, 1871 ; d. Dec. 24, 1895 ; m. Nov. 21, 1889, at Calhoun, Ky., James Tanner, and had child : i^^'o) i. Oswald}^ Tanner, b. , (657) ii. Sallie^ Glover, b. July 10, 1874 ; m. , , at Calhoun, Ky., Washington Bieler, and has two children : (658) i. Elizabeth^" Bieler, b. , (659) ii. Lottie^° Bieler, b. .. (660) iii. Walker'-' Glover, h. - (661) iv. Davi(P Glover, b. — (662) V. Williaw,^ Glover, b. (663) vi. Horner^ Glover, b. — "J BRONSDON FAMILY. Ujtj ((544) TiiEODOKE Henuy^ Wells (Emzaukiii V.", Hakkikt". II aukiki A. S.^ Bant", Bant*, Ben.i.-^ Uoijt.'j. Oldest son of (035) Elizabeth V. and C. T. Wells, lie was 1). Apr. l;<>, 1852; m. Jan. 24, 1882, Hakriet Lawrence Trimble, at I'aducali. Ky. He is a physician and res. at Hanson, Ky. Four Children : (6C)1) i. Trimble Theodore' Wells, b. Aug. 3, 1884. (665) ii. Helen Elizabeth^ Wells, b. Sept. 1 6, 1888. {Cyi^C}) iii. Lorena Lawrenre^ Wells, b. Apr. 24, 18i)l. (667) iv.'Mari/ Dudleif Wells, b. Mar. 17, 1894. (645) Homer8 Wells (Elizabeth V.^ Harriet^ Hakimet A. S.*, Bant\ Bant", Benj.-, Robt.^). He is the third child of (635) Elizabeth Y. and C. T. Wells, and was b. Apr. 9, 1854 ; m. Dec. 2, 1885, Kuby McGee of Waco, Tex. Child : 568) i. Horner'^ Wells, Jr., h. JVIar. 8, 1891, at Waco, where the family resides. (647) Emma* Wells (Elizabeth V.'', Harriet®, Harriet A. S.^ Bant% Bant", Benj.-, Robt.^). She is the fifth child of (635) Elizabeth V. and C. T. Wells, and was b. Jan. 14, 1859 ; ni. Sept. 11, 1883, Joseph W. Gooch, at Madisonville, Ky. Mr. Gooch and Mr. John Erank Wells are dealers and manufacturers of granite and marble monu.ments, under the firm name of J. ^^'. Goocli ».^ Co. They res. at Waco, Tex. Children : (669) i. Aubre)/ LytUm^ Gooch, b. Aug. 2, 1884. (670) ii. WiUnj t} Gooch, b. Dec. 22, 1885. (671) iii. Chjde^ Gooch, b. Dec. 18, 1887 ; d. June 3, 1888. (672) iv. Joseph HaroW Gooch, b. Sept. 9, 1889. (673) V. Edith Louise^ Gooch, b. Sept. 3, 1893 ; d. Dec. 6, 1893. (674) vi. Elizabeth Lucil,''* Gooch, b. Apr. 17, 1895. (675) vii. Joe W.^ Gooch, Jr., b. Nov. 13, 1900. (648) John Frank^ AYells (Elizabeth V.", Harriet^ Harriet A. S.^ Bant", Bant", Benj.^, Robt.^). John Frank Wells, sixth child of (635) Elizabeth Y. and C. T. Wells, was b. Jan. 4, 1861 ; ni. at Waco, Tex., Mar. 28, 1889, Queen Jackson. Mr. AYells is in partnership Avith his brother-in-hiw, Air. Gooch, in the marble monument business. He res. at A\'aco, Tex. 170 PART I. Children : (676) i. Ola^ Wells, b. Dec. 14. 1889. (677) ii. Jackson B.' Wells, h. Aug. 10, 1891. (649) Minnie Lee« Wells (Elizabeth V.^ Harriet^, Harriet A. S.^ Bant*, Bant^ Benj.^ Robt.^). Minnie Lee Wells, seventh cliild of (635) Elizabeth V. and C. T. Wells, was b. July 30, 1863 ; m. at Madison ville, Ky., Eev. John S. Cheek, July SO, 1885. Mr. Cheek is pastor of the First Baptist Church at Russell- ville, Ky. Four Children : (678) i. John Frcmk^ Cheek, b. Apr. 26, 1886. (679) ii. Mfijor OswahP Cheek, h. Jan. 2, 1889. (680) iii. Oscar Henri/ Cheek, b. Dec. 4, 1894. (681) iv. Laurence McKenzie"^ Cheek, b. Aug. 12, 1898. (650) Major James^ Wells (Elizabeth V.'', Harrlet^ Harriet A. S.^ Bant*, BANT^ Benj.-, Eobt.i). Major J. Wells is the eighth child of (635) Elizabeth Y. and C. T. Wells ; was b. Oct. 4, 1865 ; m. Oct. 30, 1897, Annie Belle Sugg. They res. at Madisonville, Ky. He deals in granite monuments, marble tiling, stone curbing, etc. One Child: (682) i. James Donald Wells, b. Aug. 29, 1897. The remaining children of Mr. and Mrs. C T. Wells, viz., Henrietta, Walter S. and Jacob W. Wells, reside with their parents and are unmarried. (643) Henrietta Vallette'^ McDonald (Harriet®, Harriet A. S.^ Bant*, Bant«, Benj.^ Eobt.^). Henrietta V. McDonald was the eighth and youngest child of (609) Harriet (Vallette) and Oswald McDonald, and was b. Mar. 22, 1845 ; m. Oct. 13, 1869, William Eoderick McKenzie, son of Alexander and Eosa L. (Biggs) McKenzie. Mr. McKenzie d. in New Orleans, Apr. 1, 1877. Mrs. McKenzie res. at Louisville, Ky. Children : (683) i. William Henri/ McKenzie, b. Nov. 27, 1870 ; d. 1872. (684) ii. Frederick Vallette^ McKenzie, b. Sept. 7, 1873 ; single. (685) iii. Laura Custis^ McKenzie, b. Oct. 28, 1874. BRONSDON FAMILY. 171 Alexander McKenzie, the fatlier of William li., came to Cliarlefiton, S. C, when 21 years of age. He was b. Apr. I'O. 1803, and iiiarrh-d Kosa Letitia, dau. of James and Anne Biggs (b. Aug. 21, 1807). Thov h:id ten children, of whom the fourth was William E. McKenzie, b. in Cheraw, S. C, Aug. 17, 183o. His father dying in 184G, he was sent to Hanover College in Indiana. After leaving college he lived for awhile at Mol)ilo, .\la.. and then in New Orleans, La., where he was in 18G1. He enlisted in the 21st Louisiana Infantry, C.S.A. ; through promotion became Captain of Co. C ; served until surrendered in 1865. He returned to New Orleans, wliere he resided until his death. (613) Frederic Augustus^ Vallette (Harriet A. S.% Bant\ B.\nt», Ben J.-, RoBT.^). (613) Frederic Augustus Vallette, sixth child of (601) Harriet A. S. (Bronsdon) and Peter Vallette, was b. in Cincinnati, 0., Feb. 9, 1817; d. at Glen Elder, Kans., June 25, 1890 ; is buried at Bellefontaine Cemetery, 8t. Louis, Mo. He m. July 23, 1815, Marcy Axx Field of South Scituate, R. I. She was b. Mar. 25, 1816 ; her parents were Thomas and Thankful (AVinsor) Field. Her lineal ancestor was John Field, who came to Ilhode Island in 1637 with Roger Williams, and settled at Field's Point. Frederic A. Vallette was employed by his brother Henry in the hat and fur trade until 1855, when he removed to Belleville, Til., and engaged in the lumber business. He sawed the lumber on an eighteen-acre tract of land north of Cairo, 111., and made cracker boxes to send hardtack in to the soldiers of the Union Army. He was much annoyed by attacks from a band of guerillas led by the noted Jeff Thompson. Twice his mill was burned. JMr. Vallette much resembled his mother in many of her finer traits. He belonged to the Baptist Church. His widow resides at Glen Elder, Kans., with her son, Thomas Bronsdon'^ Vallette. Children, seven in number, as follows : (686) i. Julia Anne' Vallette, b. at Cincinnati, Aug. 23, 1847; m. Theo- dore C!ornelius Coffey and res. at Tonica, HI. ]\[r. Coffey is a Baptist minister. Five children. See behjw. (687) ii. Horace FieW Vallette, b. Sept. 18, 1849, at Cincinnati ; m. Emily Woods and had seven children. See below. He m. second, Mrs. L. E. Haines. i^%^) iii. Thomas Bronsdon' Vallette, b. Sept. 16, 1851. at Cincinnati, O. ; \\\. Fannie Jane Atherton ; res. at Glen Elder, Kans. ; five children ; see below. (689) iv. Chnrles Augustus'^ Vallette, b. Mar. 9. 1854; m. S. E. Loomis ; four children. Res. at St. Louis, j\Io. See below. (690) V. Frederic F? Vallette, b. Mar. 20, 1856, at lielleville. 111. ; m. Clara Lee, Sept. 3, 1879. Res. at St. Louis, Mo. One child : (691) i. Annie Lee^ Vallette, b. in St. Louis, Mo., Apr. 30, 1881. 172 PART I. (692) vi. Harriet Maria' Vallette, b. June 20, 1859, at Belleville, 111. ; m. David Hicks Thomasson ; four children. Res. in Glen Elder, Kans. See below. (693) vii. William Henrip Vallette, b. , ; unmarried, and res. at Lansing, Mich. Mr. and Mrs. Frederic Vallette visited their relatives in Boston in January, 1851. They had with them their oldest two children. (686) Julia Axxe Vallette'' (Frederic A.^, Harriet A. S.^, Bant*, Bant^, Bexj.-, Eobt.^). (686) Julia Anne Vallette'', first child of Frederick A. and Marcy (Field) Vallette was b. at Cincinnati, 0., Aug. 23, 1847 ; m. Eev. Theodore Cornelius Coffey, Jan. 28, 1875, at Upper Alton, 111. Cliihlren of Rev. and Mrs. Coffey : (694) i. Marian Grace^ Coffey, b. in Appleton, Wis., July 5, 1878. (695) ii. Itoij Vallette^ Coffetj, b. in Spencer. Ind., Oct. 25, 1879. (696) iii. Margaret Ruth^ Coffey, b. in Sabetha, Kans., Aug. 28, 1883. (697) iv. Carrie Lanra^ Coffey, b. in Yates Centre, Kans., July 20, 1886. (698) V. Mary Alice' Cofe?/, b. in Griggsville, 111., June 15, 1890; d. Dec. 27, 1891. They res. at Tonica, 111. (687) Horace Field'' Vallette (Frederick A.^, Harriet A. S.^, Bant*, Baxt^, Bexj.'-, Robt.^). (687) Horace Field'' Vallette, second child of Frederick A. and Marcy (Field) Vallette, was b. Sept. 18, 1849, at Cincinnati, 0. ; m. Miss Emily Woods at Marysville, Kans., Oct. 24, 1871. She was b. at Scales Mound, Jo Daviess Co., 111., Sept. 22, 1854, and was dau. of Curtis Woods (b. Jan. 11, 1816, near Rogersville, Tenn. ; d. Oct. 24, 1888), and Jane Elizabeth Woods (b. Aug. 28,1823; d. Mar. 5, 1893). Mrs. Emily Val- lette d. at Glen Elder, Kans., Sept. 22, 1895. The Vallettes are members of the Baptist Church. Mr. Vallette is a merchant at Glen Elder. He m. second, Mrs. Louisa Ellen (Woods) Haines, on Feb. 24, 1898, at Randolph, Kans., a sister of his first wife ; she was b. Feb. 27, 1857, at Scales Mound, 111. To the union of Horace F. and Emily Vallette were b. seven children, all at Glen Elder : (699) i. Halcyon Bird' Vallette, b. June 7, 1873 ; d. Feb. 2, 1874. (700) ii. Fannie Evangeline' Vallette, b. Nov. 21, 1874. (701) iii. Julian Frederic' Vallette, b. Feb. 14, 1878. (702) iv. Curtis Fugene' Vallette, b. Aug. 14. 1881. (703) V. Horace Berjiard' Vallette, b. Oct. 24, 1882. (704) vi. Ruth Opal' Vallette, b. Jan. 1, 1889 (705) vii. Esther Lorene' Vallette, b. May 11, 1894. BRONSDON KAMILV, 17;5 (688) Thomas JJkoxsdon" Vai.lette (FitioDKUK; A.", Haimciki A. S.", BantS IJant', 15KXJ.2, KoijT.J). (688) Thomas Bkonsdon'' Vai.lkttk, third child of ((;i;;^ Fnjdcric Augustus and Marcy A. (Field) Vallette, was b. in Cincinnati, ()., Sopt. 10, 1851; ni. at Cairo, 111, Oct. 25, 1872, Fannik Jank Atlierton ; h. Sept. 5, 1853, at Thebes, 111., and dau. of Francis Decatur Athertoii (b. at Villa Ridge, 111., Oct. 5, 1824), and Marilla J. (Nicker) (b. 1852 in Mississippi Co., Mo., and d. 1861). Thomas Bronsdon'^ Vallette resides at Glen Elder, Kans., and with liiiu lives his widowed mother. lie is a merchant. Six Childre n (706) i. Ernest Bernard'' Vallette, b. Oct. 10, 1873, at Upper Alton. 111. ; m. Sept. 7, 1896, Maude Kinney of Tacoma, Wash. (707) ii. Thomas Charles^ Valh'tte, b. Dec. 5, 1875, in Alexander Co., HI. (708) lii. Frank Edward^ Vallette, b. Dec. 18, 1878, in Alexander Co.. HI. (709) iv. Howard Leslie^ Vallette, b. Dec. 1, 1882, in Alexander Co., 111. : d. Sept. 20, 1894, as the result of an accident on the railroad. (710) V. Margaret Irene^ Vallette, b. June 4, 1891, at Glen Flder, Kans. (711) vi. Lt/le Herbert^ Vallette, b. Nov. 27, 1893, at Glen Elder, Kans. (689) Charles Augustus" Vallette (Frederic A.^, Harriet A. S.^ Bant*, Bant^, Benj.'-, Robt.^). He was the fourth child of (613) Frederic A. and i^^al■cy A. (Field) Vallette, and was b. in Cincinnati, ()., Mar. 9, 1854 ; m. Oct. 13, 1886, Sarah Elizabeth Loomis, who was b. in Hartford, Conn.. -Ian. 23, 1853, and dau. of Charles Pierpont Loomis (b. at Whately, Mass., May 10, 1829; d. at Hartford, Conn., Apr. 10, 1890) and Helen Amelia Loomis (b. in North- ampton, Mass., Nov. 5, 1827 ; d. at Milwaukee, Wis., Aug. 24, 1892). Children : (712) i. Helen^ Vallette, b. Aug. 13, 1887. (713) ii. Julian Loomis^ Vallette, b. Aug. 9, 1888. (714) iii. Frederir FiekP Vallette, b. Dec. 31, 1891. (715) iv. Alice Maif Vallette, b. July 26, 1894. (692) Harriet Maria"^ Vallette (Frederic A.*, Harriet A. S.^ Bant^ Bant*, Benj.-, Robt.^). She was the sixth child of (613) Frederic A. and Marcy A. (Field) Vallette, and was b. in Belleville, 111., June 20, 1859 ; m. in Kansas City, Kans., Oct. 31, 1888, David Hicks Thomasson, who was b. Aug. 2, 1859, near Dickson, 174 • PART I. Webster Co., Ky., and son of David Hicks and Eliza (Mulhern) Thomasson (the former b. Aug. 25, 1825, in Webster Co., and the latter b. Nov. 23,. 1832, at Cairo, Henderson Co., Ky.). Children : (716) i. Thomas Henri/ Thomasson, b. Oct. 12, 1889. (717) ii. jMari/ Elizabeth^ Thoynasson, b. Mar. 20, 1893. (718) iii. Herbert DavicP Thomasson, b. Sept. 17, 1894. (719) iv. Russell JVells^ Thomasson, b. Dec. 3, 1896. (615) Edwakd^ Vallette (Harriet A. S.^, Bant*, Bant^, Benj.^, Robt.^). Edward^ Vallette, eighth child of (601) Harriet A. S. and Peter Vallette, was b. in Cincinnati, 0., Oct. 23, 1820, and is now the only surviv- ing child of that couple. He m. at Wabash, Ind., Miss Selena Richards, dau. of William and Anna Richards. They resided in Pleasantville, Ind., where Mr. Vallette was an elder in the Christian Church for twenty years. On the breaking up of his home in Pleasantville he went to Albion, 111., where he is now with the family of his late brother, AVilliam P. Vallette. In 1849 Mr. Vallette went to California. Although Mr. Vallette is quite aged and somewhat infirm, he has cheer- fully assisted with records and recollections of his family relations, both past and present, and has collected and -arranged the names of some twenty- five families. He has no children of his own, but is a favorite with his numerous nieces and nephews. His genealogical work is a fine example of careful, finished records. (617) William Peter® Vallette (Harriet A. S.^, Bant^ Bant^ Benj.^, Robt.'). He was the tenth and youngest child of (601) Harriet A. S. and Peter Vallette, and was b. in Cincinnati, 0., May 13, 1825 ; d. Nov. 13, 1896, in Albion, 111. He m. Aug. 4, 1843, in Dearborn County, Ind., Miss Laura Williams, dau. of John Williams (b. in Indiana ; d. in Hamilton County, 0., July 8, 1851). Mrs. Vallette resides in Albion, 111., and with her is her widowed daughter, Mrs. Hallani, and grandchildren, and her brother-in-law, Edward Vallette. Mr. W. P. Vallette was an elder in the Christian Church at Albion, 111., for several years. He served in the Civil War in the 152d 111. Vols. Mr. and Mrs. Vallette had fourteen children, eleven of whom are living. The first child was b. in Dearborn County, Ind., the next seven in Hamilton County, 0., and the last six in Albion, 111. Ten daughters and two sons have married and all have families, the greater number of whom live near their mother. BRONSDON FAMILY. 175 O Childreii : (720) i. Henrietta Maria'' Vallette, b. Nov. 9, 1844; iii. .Iiily 18, 18G4, Saml. Hallam. He d. Oct. 27, 187(). They have liad six children ; two are not living ; four are married. (721) ii. Mari/ Louise'' Vallette, b. Oct. 5, 1845; m. Aug. 27, 1805, John L. Hallam, cousin of Saml. They have had eleven children. (722) iii. William Henry'' Vallette. See below. (723) iv. Louis Edmard'' Vallette, b. Apr. 19, 1849 ; m. Jan. (l, 1870, Sarah E. Taylor. Children (George d. in infancy) : i. Leonard,^ Vallette, b. Dec. 20, 1871 ; m. Ellen Nettleton. ii. \Vm. Jolin^ Vallette, b. Aug. 5, 1875; d. Sept., 1899 ; ni. Apr. 20, 1898, Prudence West and had one son, b. Jan. ,'jO, 1899. (724) V. Laura Jane'' Vallette, b. Nov. 21, 1850; d. Sept. IG, 18G6. (725) vi. TkSnias Bronsdon'' Vallette, b. Jan. 21, 1852 ; d. Dec. 13, 1872. (726) vii. JtiUa BrancJi' Vallette, b. Nov. 10, 1854; m. duly 4, 1875, Thomas Frankland ; has children (Philip and Laura), both m., and live others. (727) viii. Sarah FMzaheth'' Vallette, b. Jan. 5, 1857; m. Apr. 12, 1877, John Hallam, who d. 1895 ; has children, Philip and Cordelia. (728) ix. Harriet Bronsdon'' Vallette, b. Sept. 21, 1858; m. June 5, 1889, John Seifert ; children, Orville and Roland. (729) X. Isabella^ Vallette, b. Dec. 27, 1860 ; m. 1880, Peter J. Seifert and d. May 12, 1895. Mr. Seifert then m. Maggie Hallam, niece of his first wife. Four children by first wife. (730) xi. Adaline'' Vallette, b. Dec. 18, 1862; m. Mar. 28, 1883, Nathan Wilber Byrne ; two children, Sarah L. and Ada M. Res. at Calhoun, 111. (731) xii. Clara WilUams'' Vallette, b. Feb. 22, 1865 ; m. Dec. 9, 1885, Wm. W. Frankland ; has three children, iMyrtle, Florence A. and Roy. (732) xiii. Ella'' Vallette, b. June 30, 1867 ; m. June 8, 1869, Henj. Taylor of Albion, 111. ; three children, Clarence A., Maud and Russell. (733) xiv. Grace'' Vallette, b. Mar. 24, 1869; m. Sept. 3, 1890, James Moody of Albion, 111. ; two children, Halbert L. and Irena. (722) William Henry^ Vallette (William P.^ Hakkiet A. S.^ Baxt*, Bant^ Benj.*^, ROBT.^). He was the third child of (617) William P. and Laura (AVilliams) Vallette, and was b. near Cincinnati, 0., Apr. 16, 1847 ; m. at Knoxville, Missouri, Widow Hannah J. (Newbrey) McKinnis, b. Aug. 12, 1860, near 176 PART I, Cincinnati, 0. She had one son, Artie Clement McKinnis, b. June 1, 1872, who lived with Mr. Vallette. Mrs. McKinnis became the wife of Mr. Yallette, Jan. 24, 1878. Mr. Vallette was a minister of the " Christian Denomination," and had charge of all the cluirches of that faith in Rock County, Kansas. He was enthusiastic and self-sacrificing in his chosen work. In the winter of 1900 he rode many miles in a severe storm, to officiate at a funeral. The exposure brought on an illness from which he died, Dec. 5, 1900. He left three children : (737) , i. Joseph Preston^ Vallette, b. Nov. 28, 1878, at Knoxville, Mo. (738) ii. Edward Franklin^ Vallette, b. Dec. 2, 1881, in Osborne Co., Kans. (739) iii. lona Ellen^ Vallette, b. Feb. 28, 1886, in Osborne Co., Kans. BRONSDON FAMILY. I I (603) Sakah Carter Bronsdon^ (Bant^ Bant^, liENj.-, Rout.'). Sarah Carter Bronsdon^ was the tliird oliild of (L'8G) limit and Deborah (Jackson) Broiisdon, and was h. in l>oston, June 25, 1789; m. Andrew Allison, Feb. 12, 1810, and d. at Concord, N. H., ]\Iay 1, ISOo. Mr. Allison was b. at Dunbarton, N. H., Sept. 18, 1782, and d. Feb. 12, 1822, at Northport, Me. In September, 1810, the family had removed to Cas- tine. Me. Children : (740) i. Sarah Catherine^ Allison, b. at Castine, Me., Nov. 22, 1810; m. Rev. Mr. French. See below. (741) ii. il/ary xi7i;«e*' .•i///.s^;/;., b. at Castine, Me., Sept. 15, 1812 ; (LdulylG, 1873. (742) iii. Andrew^ Allison, b. Dec. 28, 1814; d. Apr. 12, 1845, single. (743) iv. Frederick^ Allison, b. at Castine, Me., May 11, 1817; m. first, ]\Irs. Hannah (Clark) Savory, Aug. 29, 1874, who d., and he then m. her sister, Miss Jeanette Clark, July 28, 1883. They res. in Concord, N. H., at 93 State Street, which has been Mr. Allison's home for 57 years. When a young man, he was a book-binder; and in 1847, was employed by Damrell & Moore, Boston. He is now at the age of 84, nearly ; in good health, with hearing and eyesiglit unimpaired. He has always derived much enjoyment from books, and read the history of Josephus at the age of 13 years, by firelight, during the winter evenings. There are no children. (744) V. Harriet'' Allison, b. Sept. 18, 1819 : d. Sept. 19, 1821. (745) vi. Harriet Adaline^ Allison, b. July 12, 1822, at Northport, Me. (her father d. Feb. 12, 1822). She d., single, Mar. 17, 1848. (740) Sarah Catherine" Allison (Sarah C.^ Bant*, Bant=^, Benj.-, Robt.^). (740) Sarah Catherine*' Allison was b. at Castine, Uo., Nov. 22, 1810 ; m. Apr. 9, 1839, Rev. Henry S. G. French of Boscawen, N. H. He was a missionary, and, with his bride, departed for Bankok, Siam, where he d. in 1842. Child : (746) i. Henry Allison' French, b. at Bankok, Siam, ^lay 10, 1841. On the death of his father, Mrs. French returned with her infant son to New Hampshire, and lived at the home^ of their relatives (mother and brothers) at 93 State Street, Con- cord, N. H. Young Henry learned the printers' trade, but his health failed somewhat, so that in 1873 he Avent to Colorado. 12 178 PART I. At Greeley, he bought out the Colorado Sim, which he pub- lished until 1889, when he d. His mother d. at his home in Greeley, Apr. 9, 1882; and in 1883, Mr. French m. Ellen M. Taylor, who was b. in New York State, and taught school in Pvutherford, N. J. After the death of Mr. French, she resumed teaching in Greeley, Col. Children (TAT) i. Sarah Taylor^ French, b. Aug. 24, 1884. (748) ii. Allison Taylor^ French, b. Oct. 9, 1885. BRONSUON FAMILY. 17'.» (603) Mary Jacksox Bkonsdon^ (Bant*, Bant', liKN.i.-, limn.'). Mary Jacksox Broxsuon^ was the fourth chikl oi' (L'SOj Bunt and Deborah (Jackson) Bronadon of Boston, and was 1). on Leverctt Street, Bos- ton, Feb. 8, 1701; d. in Coneord, N. 11., dune 10, BSIL'. Slie m. Aug. L'4, 1810, David Clinton Allison (brother of Andrew, wlio ni. lier sister, Sarah C). David C. Allison was b. at Dunbarton, N. II.. Apr. L'7. 1787; d. at Concord, N. H., July 1, 1851. lie had a second wife, Mrs. Bider. Eleven CliUdren, all by the Hrst wife : (749) i. Dnvhl Fxirr^ Allison, b. at Salem, Mass., Apr. 8, BSB*). See below. (750) ii. j\l<(ri/ Uroiisdir/i^ Allison, h. Aug. 1(J, 1814; spent nuicli of his life in Concord, N. H., but d. at the home of her sister, ^Irs. Gilman, in Pittsburg, Kansas, Nov. 24, 3 891. (751) iii. Siinrh Ann^ AUlson, b. at Peterborough, N. II. , July 24, ISB;; m. Feb. 15, 184.'), Wm. Tliayer, who res. at Manchester, 2S. 11. She d. at Peterborough, June 18, 184G. (752) iv. Eliza Jane^ Allison, b. at Peterborough, N. H., jNIar. 13, 1818 ; m. N. A. Foster. See below. (753) v. HenrleftaWhite^ Allison (Etta), b. Jan. 24, 1820 ; ni. R.Fletcher. See below. (754) vi. Henry Alexander^ Allison, b. Sept. 30, 1822; d. June, 1824. (755) vii. George^ Allison, b. July 30, 1824. See below. (756) viii. Frances Augusta^ Allison (Fannie), b. Sept. 1 G, 182G. See below. (757) ix. Henrif Allison, b. Nov. 7, 1828. See below. (758) X. EnimeUne^ Allison, b. Apr. 21, 1832; m. C. E. Gilman. See below. (759) xi. Manj Ellen Narla^ Allison (Nellie), b. July l(j, 1834; m. 18G0, Dr. Asa F. Pattee. She was a school-teacher before marriage, and taught in Concord, N. H., and So. xVmesbury, Mass. She d. Mar. 10, ISGo. No children. In the year 1810, a certain portion of the estate of Bant Bronsdon of Boston, deceased, was set off to his daughters, Mary and ••'Sally" Allison, .<'two lots of land, each measuring 18 ft. and 4 in., on Leverett Street, and 60 feet in depth," being one seventh of the estate for each daughter. After the division, the Allisons sold their shares of the Bronsdon estate very soon. Their brother, Joseph Pvussell Bronsdon^ retained his sliare and also that of their half-brother. Bant Bronsdon^ Jr., which he purchased, until 1844. (See Book 235, leaf 7, Suffolk Deeds.) Chis estate is described under (286) Bant Bronsdon, the father of Mary and Sarah (familiarly called Polly and Sally. 180 PART I. and their sister Anue was called Nancy). These three ladies m. into Dunbarton, IST. H., families, Dunbarton being abont eight miles from Con- cord, N. H. See also biography of ( ) Sarah Bant (Bronsdon) Curtis, who was their guardian during their minority. Biography. (603) Mary Jackson Bronsdon^, who m. David Clinton Allison, was b. in Boston, on Leverett Street. Her parents both d. while she was a child, and she was brought up by one of her father's sisters, in Boston. She and her sister Sarah became acquainted with the young Allison brothers of Dun- barton, jST. H., and Sarah m. Andrew Allison, in February, 1810, and Mary m. David C. Allison in the following August. Both ladies then res. with their husbands, in Dunbarton. A third sister, Anne Bronsdon, went to Dunbarton also, and was there m. to Mr. Lore Brigham, and remained there all her long life; but the Allisons soon removed, David C. to Salem, and later to Castine, Me. ; but in 1816 they were at Peterborough, IST. H., and finally, they returned to Concord, N. H. Mr. Allison had learned the trade of a hatter in his youth, in Charlestown, Mass. He engaged in business in the different places, Avhere he afterward lived. While in Castine, during the British occupation, several English officers were quartered upon the Allisons. Mrs. Mary Allison was remarkable for her beauty, and was regarded with admiration by her unwelcome guests, but her studied dignity of demeanor repressed all attempt at its expression. She was as good as she was handsome, and had many friends who were ready to speak in her praise twenty years after her death. The small portrait, painted when she was about 30 years old, gives but little idea of her appearance : but even in that, her large, lustrous, dark eyes, are evident "real Bronsdon eyes" — and were matched by the velvet softness of her complexion. Two of the chil- dren of Mr. and Mrs. David C. Allison are now living — one in Kansas, and the other in Illinois. (749) David Barr« Allison (Mary J.^ Baxt^ Baxt'', Bexj.-, Eobt.^). D. B. Allisox learned the printers' trade. He lived at Sanbornton Square, Laconia, and Concord, X. H. He m. first, Pauline M. Lane, dan. of Jos. H. Lane of Sanbornton, N. H., who d. in 1850, leaving no children. He then m. second, Mrs. Elivra (Nutting) Tracy of Claremont, IST. H., in 1851. She was dau. of Timothy and Elizabeth (Quinton) Nutting. She d. September, 1854, leaving a babe five weeks old. ISIr. Allison d. at Bath, Me., July 16, 1866. He was highly respected for his excellent character. •'...A -J C603) MARY JACKSON BRONSDON"' m. DAVID C. ALLISON. BRONSDON BWMILY. ],sl One Child : (760) i. Clara Elvira'' Allison, b. at Concord, N. H., Aug. 1."). l,S.~»r m. Jan. 15, 1871, Benjamin Kimball (Jliase, who wa.s b. Aug. 25, 1841, and son of Sarah Ann (Taft) and Ucnjamin Kimball Chase, Sr. Mr. Chase is a farmer. Tlu; family res. at Langdon, N. H, One child : (761) i. Everett KimbaW Chase, b. Cornish, .\. 11. June 29, 1889. (752) Eliza Jane« Allison (Maky J.^, Ba.nt^ Bant", Bicxj-, Boitr.'). She was the fourth child of (603) Mary J. and ]). C. Allison, and m. Dec. 31, 1840, Newell Abbott Fostkr of Portland, iMe. lie was a publisher. Mrs. Foster d. in Portland, June 18, 1854. Mr. Foster then m. in 1861, Miss Ellen French of Portland. He was b. Feb. 7, 1814; d. Nov. 20, 1868. His parents were Col. Asa Foster (a Kevolutionary veteran), and Sarah (Morrill) Foster of Canterbury, N. H. Children : (762) i. Leroy Allison''' Foster, b. Mar. 15, 1843 ; d. at Denver, Col., Mar. 29, 1882. He m. Aug. 25, 1874, Emma S. Eastman, who now res. at Lowell. Children : (763) i. Clifford Eastman^ Foster, b. Aug. 29, 1877. - (764) ii. Cornelia Chase^ Foster, b. May 5, 1879. (765) ii. Adelaide Eliza'' Foster, b. Jan. 16, 1853; m. Oct. 23, 1886, Austin Brainard, son of Henry Herbert and Cj'uthia Virginia Brainard of Pladdam, Conn. (Mrs. C. V. Brainard's maiden name was Brainerd). Austin Brainard, Esq., is an attorney- at-law, and res. at Hartford, Conn. Adelaide E. (Foster) Brainard is a graduate of Vassar College. Children : (766) i. Helen Allison^ Brainard, b. Dec. 5, 1889. (767) ii. Austin^ Brainard, Jr., b. Feb. 2, 1893; d. aged 1 day. (768) iii. Laurence^ Brainard, b. Jan. 20, 1895 ; d. Apr. 14, 1895. Newell A. Foster learned the printers' trade, and afterward, in com- pany with David Barr Allison (whose sister he m.), bought out a Concord, N. H., firm of printers. In 1838, he removed to Portland, Me., where he engaged in newspaper work, finally establishing the Portland Press, which prospered exceedingly. He Avas a member of that noblest and most disin- terested party the world has ever known, the Abolitionists, and held stead- 182 PART I. fastly by his principles even at the sacrifice of worldly advancement as it seemed; but in 1858-59, he was elected to the Portland City Council, and to the Legislature in 1859-60, 1867-68. He was president of the Portland Mechanics' Association. He was taken ill at a meeting of the Woman's Suffrage Association, in Boston, and d. the next day of heart disease, loved and mourned as few are, by his fellow citizens of Portland, Me. (T53) Henrietta White® Alliso^^ (Mary J.^, Bant*, Bant^, Benj.-, Robt.^). She was b. Jan. 24, 1820 ; m. Jan. 14, 1846, Rollin Fletcher of Port- land, Me. In 1853-4, they removed to Circleville, 0., and later, about 1875, to Morris, 111., where Mr. Fletcher d. May 3, 1885. Mrs. Fletcher lived with her son in Joliet, 111., where she d., March, 1893, and is bur. with her husband at Circleville, 0. Children, b. at Portland, Me. : (768c/) i. Eiir/ene Bronsdon^ Flftclier, b. Apr. 28, 1847 ; m. at Circleville, 0., Nov. 29, 1869, Mary Rebecca Harris. Now res. at Joliet, 111. Children : (769) i. Lucy Harris' Fletcher, b. Jan. 5, 1871 ; d. Jan. 18, 1871. (770) ii. Inez Blanchard^ Fletcher, b. at Ashland, Ky., July 8, 1873. (771) iii. William Condit^ Fletcher, b. at jNIorris, 111., Dec. 1, 1875. (772) ii. Sarah Flizabeth'' Fletcher, b. Jan. 19, 1849; d. young. (755) George® Allison (Mary J.^ Bant*, Bant^ Benj. 2, Egbt.^). He was b. July 30, 1824, in Concord, N. H. He learned the trade of carriage maker. He m. at Boscawen, N. H., Nov. 27, 1846, Elvira Jane, dau. of Jeremiah and Martha (Jackman) Noyes, and b. in Boscawen, Jan. 6, 1823; Mr. Allison d. Feb. 5, 1867, at South Amesbury (Merrimacport). He was a member of the Baptist Church. Children : (773) i. Clifton 0.' Allison, b. Jan. 31, 1848 ; m. Alice A. Shultz, who was b. Aug. 8, 1853. (774) ii. Roger Gilman'' Allison, b. Feb. 10, 1850; m. Annie Hicks. (775) iii. Irving RusseW Allison, h. (^'^^ 19,1853. BUONSDON FAMILY. \H'.l (776) iv. Eiiuna Frances' Allison, b. Jan. 17, IS.-),"); d. same day. (777) V. Wlllard Sumner'' Allison., b. Apr. -7, l.Sali. (778) vi. Laurence Edward' Allison, b. Sept. 7, l.Sr)7 ; d. M:iy L'L', 1 SSC, leaving widow Hannah (Edniin.ster), and cliild : (779) i. Alice Maude^ Allison, b. Jnly L'S, ISSI. (780) vii. Mart/ Esther'' Allison, h. Oct. oO, 185'.); ni. Sept. IJO, IS?:*, K(j.s- well Eaton, and had live chiklren, two of wlioni d. young. (781) i. Nellie^ Eofou, b. June T), ISSl. (782) ii. Ceorge^ Eaton, b. Mav. IS. 1S83. (78.3) iii. Elizahetli^ Eaton, b. Mav. II. ISSG. (784:) viii. Frederick'' Allison, b. June 5, ISGl ; d. Aug. ."Jl, ISCd. (785) ix. Clarence Thayer'' Allison, b. Nov. 2, 1862; in. P>elle Preble, dau. of Mr. and Mrs. J. W, Preble of Newton, N. H., where she was b. Jan. 24, 1865. Child : (786) i. Clara Isora^ Allison, h. Mar. 5, 1884. (787) X. Sarah Ellen'' Allison, b. Sept. 10, 1864 ; ni. Oeo. F. Mason, and lives in Merriniacport (So. Amesbury) children (first one, Franklin A., d. young). (788) ii. Bussell Kinsley^ Mason, b. June 14, 180.S. (789) iii. Wesley Sumner^ Mason, b. Mar. 11, 1895. (790) iv. Sarah Esther^ 3Iason, h. Aug. 21, 1S9Ck (791) V. Martha Isabelle^ Mason, b. Dec. 21, 1897. (756) Frances Augusta^ Allison (Mary J.^ Bant^ Bant' Benj.-, Kobt.^). Frances Augusta Allison, b. at Castine, Sept. 16, 1826; ra. at Circle- ville, 0., Dec. 31, 1855, J. G. McIntike. She d. Apr. 6, 1856. (757) Henry^ Allison (Mary J.^ Bant^ Bant^ Benj.^, Kobt.^). Henry Allison was b. in Concord, N. H., Nov. 7, 1828; ni. Nov. 20, 1851, Mary L., dan. of Geo. K. W. and Elizabeth (Atkinson) Gallishan of Andover, Mass., where she was b. Oct. 30, 1832. She d. in 1865, and he m. second, Sept. 12, 1867, Mary, dau. of John Garbett, and b. in England, May 2, 1846, children by the first wife : (792) i. Mary EVtzahetli' Allison, h. Sept. 1, 1852 ; ni. Frank P. Harris, and res. in Norwood Park, 111. n93) ii. Edward Clarence'' Allisori, b. Apr. 30, 1856 ; d. July 8, 1856. (794) iii. Fannie'' Allison, b. Jau.,,29, 1858 ; d. July 27, 1859. 184 PART I. Mr. Henry Allison served in the Civil War. Enlisted Aug. 10, 1862, in the 114th Regt. Ohio Vols. ; mustered as third sergeant, promoted to first lieutenant IMarch, 1864, and afterward commanded the Company until close of service in August, 1865. Res. at Aurora, 111. (758) Emmeline^ Allison (Mary J.^, Bant^, Bant^, Benj.^, Robt.^). Emmeline^ Allison was b. at Concord, N. H., Apr. 21, 1832; m. in Stratham, N". H., July 2, 1857, Charles Edwin Gilman, who was b. in Exeter, N. H., May 10, 1830. They lived in Merrimacport (So. Amesbury), Mass. ; Wheeling, W. Va. in 1860 ; went to Illinois in 1861, and to Kansas in the spring of 1865. Mr. Gilman d. at Pittsburg, Kans., Aug. 1, 1867. He was son of Abijah and Harriet (Burley) Gilman of Exeter, N. H. Mrs. Gilman and daughter res. at Pittsburg, Kans. Child : (795) i. Mar)/ EUeii' Gilman, b. July 13, 1863, near Orange, Iroquois Co., 111. She is a physician, whose specialty is the eye and ear. Mrs. and Miss Gilman have been very helpful in furnishing facts for this history. They have sent copies of old family papers, etc., and the pic- ture of Mary J. (Bronsdon) Allison. In reference to the mistake in spelling the name of Bronsdon as Bronson in the Allison genealogy, Mrs. Gilman says it is unaccountable, as she used great care in spelling and writing the name correctly for the compiler of that book. BRONSDON FAMILY. IH") (604) JosKi'ii KussELL J)KOnsj)On'^ (Bant-*, IJant", P.iw.i.=, JIout.'). (604) Joseph Russell Bronsdon^ was tlio fifth cliiltl of (L'SO) J'.aiit and Deborah (Jackson) Bron scion of Boston, and was b. on T>ever(jtt Strcot, Mar. 12, 1793, emigrated to Montreal, Can., wlien a yoiini;- man, where lie Til. Elizabeth Carolike Clark about 1817, who was b. in 1700, and d. May 12, 1836. Mr. Bronsdon d. Oct. 20, 1870. See his biography fol- lowing list of children. ElgJit Cliildreu, b. in Montreal : (796) i. Sarah Ann Bronsdon^ b. i\Iar. 7, 1818. See below (Hall). (797) ii. Joseph Bushy Bnmsdon'^, b. Dec. 6, 1821 ; m., and is a widower. Res. in Montreal. (798) iii. Elizabeth Caroline Bro7isdon% h. July 2i, 1824:; m. Dr. Nelson Loverin, — , , who d. Oct., 1884, in Chicago, 111. Mrs. Loverin, and her brother Joseph B., res. together. One Child: (799) i. EUzahcfli^ Loveri^i, b. in Chicago, TIL, Aug. 14, 1859 ; d. Mar., 1884. She was the wife of George Moss, who d. Oct. 17, 1891, leaving one child : (800) i. Alfred^ Moss, b. Mar. 19, 1884. (801) iv. William Thomas Bronsdon^ b. Dec. 22, 1820 ; d. June 22, 1832. (802) V. George James Bronsdon^ b. Mar. 4, 1829; d. Mar. 30, 1833. (803) vi. He?ir>/ Joshua Bronsdon', b. Dec. 4, 1830; d. Jan. 30, 1832. (804) vii. Thomas Busby Bronsdon", b. Dec. 26, 1832; d. Aug. 24, 1851. (805) viii. Joshua Lawrence Bronsdon^, b. Jan. 27, 1835. See below. The families of Sarah Ann Bronsdon*^ (Mrs. Hall), and of J. L. Bronsdon*^ follow the biography of (604) Joseph Russell Bronsdon". Life of Joseph Russell Bronsdon^ [The following accomit is compiled from manuscripts furnished by Joseph Bl'SDV Bronsdon", a son of .1. R. Bkoxspox^ and Col. L. B. Maksh, who was person- ally acquainted with the subject of this biography. These sources of information are supplemented by additional recollections and reminiscences on the part of other relatives to whom he was more or less known]. Joseph Russell Bronsdon^ was but six years old when his father died; and two years later, his good mother also passed away, leaving a little flock of orphan children, the oldest of whom was but 15 years old, besides an 186 PART I. older half-brother, a youth of about 18 years. These children were kindly cared for by their uncles and aunts, who had a true affectionate interest in them for the sake of their deceased parents, who were in every way worthy of regard. The oldest aunt, jNIrs. Sarah 15. Curtis, was appointed guardian of the children. Joseph Russell Bronsdon made long visits to his uncles, John Box Bronsdon and Benjamin Bronsdon of Milton, and a descendant of the former distinctly recollects a visit from " Cousin Joe " in after years, when he and his cousin Phineas compared notes and indulged in lively recollec- tions of boyhood sports in the beautiful country around Milton. She remembers also the joyful welcome accorded to "Cousin Joe," and the absorbing interest excited by his stories of his life experiences, and these same stories formed a basis for discussion and reminiscence long after the departure of the honored guest. At the age of 14 years, in accordance with the law of those days, which required every fatherless boy to be taught a useful trade, Joseph was apprenticed to a wood-worker, who included both the building of houses and ships in his business. He proved his aptness for mechanics by easily mastering the principles of construction, while at the same time he acquired a skillful use of the tools of his trade. He had that within him- self that was bound to win him success in his undertakings, and we cannot but regret that this true and worthy descendant of Robert Bronsdon^ could not have remained in his native place, and there have brought honor to the name of Bronsdon; but destiny, in the shape of the war of 1812, was approaching. At that time, seven years was given to learn a trade, and Joseph was not " out of his time " when he was drafted as a soldier. The war of 1812 was most unpopular with the people at large. The State of Massachusetts raised no regiments of volunteers for the general government, and only supplied its State militia for its own protection. Our young kinsman was by no means adverse to a taste of adventure. He accepted his fate with the greatest cheerfulness, undeterred by the stories of hardship and privation which prevailed. Money was scarce ; the Government found it nearly impossible to raise money for equipments, or ■even to purchase supplies of food for the army ; thus it happened that the band of drafted men set out from Boston to march to Albany, each one carrying a little pack of his own personal belongings. They were under orders to join Gen. Winheld Scott's command at Albany. On reaching their destination, they found everything in a state of activity. Gen. Scott had undertaken to re-organize and drill the troops with a thoroughness before unknown. His eye was everywhere seeking to increase the efficiency of his army. He was not long in making the discovery that Joseph Bronsdon w^as possessed of a skill in construction that would be better available were BUONSDON FAMILY. 1 S' lie promoted to a diiferent position — accordingly-, he was a]>p(»iiite(l on tin- staff of artificers, or as we would now say, en.jjineers. This was in the winter of 1813-14. The war ui> to tliat time liad Iktu tinsuc-CL'ssfnlly con- ducted, but a change for the better was at hand, duo to a realization on tlie part of the ruling ])owers that the army needed re-organizing and more thorough instruction and practice in military tactics. General Scott person- ally superintended this Avork ; and in consequence, there was soon a decided improvement in the drill and appearance of the soldiers. Young Bronsdon was deeply interested and inclined to profit by his instructions to the utmost; and, in after years, the knowledge thus gained was put to use, and he was enabled to perform valuable service as a drill instructor in his adopted city during an exigency in the Rebellion of 1837-8. When all was in readiness for a start, the ai-my marched to linffalo, a distance of 200 miles, over a road that for much of the way was but a trail. Buffalo at that time consisted of a mere handful of houses. To get there, it was necessary to cross many streams, some of them too large to ford ; and, on these occasions, young Bronsdon was on hand to construct bridges ami devise means to get across — and, by his success, he won golden opinions from his General. When Buffalo was reached, it was foiuul to be deserted by the liritish, aiul the few buildings it contained had been burned by the Indian allies. No shelter Avas available, except the jail, a small stone building ihat had resisted destruction. Joseph Bronsdon was detailed to take charge of the erection of suitable buildings for shelter. In July, the Niagara river was crossed in }nusuit of the liriti^h, who made a stand on the bank of a deep, swift-flowing stream, apparently believing that its size afforded sufficient protection against any attempt of the American troops to cross. Young Bronsdon surveyed the situation. His superior officers were in close and anxious consultation, Avith their uneasy glances directed toAvards the foe. Several of their adversaries rode daringly and tauntingly towards them. Joseph Bronsdon scanned the banks and the rushing waters Avith a keen eye. He had a plan of action, and he Avalked along the shore seeking the best points for effecting a speedy connection with the o})posite bank. Gen. Scott looked at him inquiringly, rode towards him, and asked him if it Avere possible to cross, and receiving an encouraging reply, he enthusiasti- cally put every desired means at young Bronsdon's command, who. with a practical eye, had marked the direction and force of the current, and had noticed that it left the shore at a point where he stood, and was diverted in a tangent toAvards an opposite point beloAv. The soldiers Avere soon Avorking like beavers. Logs Avere prepared and laid lengthAvise and bound together and fastened by their Avedged ends by 188 PART I. wooden pins made on tlie spot. "When the bridge was of sufficient length it was directed into tlie current, and the outcome watched for in breathless silence. A cheer arose when it struck the proper point, and was held fast. It was a frail structure, but that did not deter Gen. Scott, who exultantly- spurred his horse thereon, and dashed across, notwithstanding the swaying and partially submerged condition of the bridge — he did not lack followers in his perilous passage. Taken unawares, the British stood not upon the order of their going, a few laggards being taken prisoners. This exploit was rewarded by bestowing upon Joseph E. Bronsdon the rank of captain. Soon after, several engagements took place, which virtually ended the war. Mr. Bronsdon was ordered to Plattsburg to superintend the erection of hospital buildings for the shelter of the wounded. When these were completed, he was relieved from duty and returned to Boston. He was joy- fully welcomed by^ his relatives, Avho felt an affectionate pride in his army achievements. Soon, he began to look about himself for employment, but he found little to encourage his hopes. His eldest sister and her husband were pre- paring to emigrate to the far West. All the family, except his oldest (half) brother, had gone elsewhere to reside. Business seemed wholly destroyed and trade paralyzed. There was little money in circulation. His thoughts turned toward the region he had lately left. He knew that trade was brisk in Montreal, which was growing rapidly. Although he had served his Gov- ernment faithfully, he felt no particular rancor against his late foes, for he said, " I tried to enter Montreal as an enemy ; now I will go as a friend to seek my fortune.'' We do not know that he intended to remain in Canada always. As long as he lived, he retained a strong affection for the place of his birth, and delighted to visit the home and friends of his boyhood and youth. Again, he set out towards Canada, and this time he entered Montreal, and put up at the " American House," kept by Lyman & Bonner. He reg- istered on the hotel books as an American engineer. In looking about Montreal, his attention was drawn to the consideration of the problem of how Montreal could be reached by water from Quebec without the assist- ance of horses and oxen to draw the boats against the heavy current up to the city. The boats then occupied two weeks on the round trip. They were owned by John Molson, ancestor of the celebrated Molson family of Montreal. Mr. Bronsdon discussed the probabilities that he would be able to sur- mount the difficulties of navigation with j\Ir. Molson ; the result was that they entered into an agreement by which the former contracted to build a powerful steamboat which should breast the current unaided. To their great joy, the boat named the " Swift Shore " Avas a success, and Mr. Brons- BHONSDON FAMILY. 1 S'.t don had the proud li-iiiin|ili of seeing her coiuo n\> iu the very citv, the pioneer of many of lier kind. His success in tins iiiiportunt uiidertiikiiij; brought him the actpiaintance and recognition of tlie leading men (if Mon- treal. He found no lack of business opportunities. Mnuy of tlie best (iov- ernment buildings of Montreal were erected by Josei)h Iv. lironsdon. Soon after his arrival in the city, he organized a fire brigade, which is still in existence, and in which he served for over oO years witliont compen- sation. He was called in recognition of this service, "The Fire King." He was engaged in the constructioii of the first wharves in the liarbor, in 1832, and these yet remain. During the llebellion of 1837-8, his military training and knowledge enabled him to offer his services to the Government as military instructor. He was the only man at hand who was capable of directing cavalry mana?uvres, and he acted in that capacity until the arrival of instructors from England. At the opening of the Grand Trunk 11. R., Mr. Bronsdon was sent as a delegate to Boston to take part in the celebration of the completion of the road. He mad.e an excellent speech, wduch was well received. He was spoken of by the press as a '' Bostoii boy, who is now one of the fathers of Montreal, and a most useful and enterprising citizen." He did not dispose of his portion of his father's" Boston estate until the year 1844. He was an alderman for more than 13 years. He belonged to the order of Free Masons, of which he was an esteemed brother. At the time of his death, he had become one of the foremost citizens of INIontreal. Note. :Mr. Bronsdon furnished plans and valuable suggestions for the construe- tion of the wharves on the water front of Buffalo, which were adopted \>y the parties in charge of that enterprise. (796) Sakah Axn Bronsdon*' (Joseph R.°, Bant^ Ji;., Bant', Ben J.-, RoBT.^). She was b. Mar. 7, 1818, in Montreal, Can. ; m. Sept. 26, 1844, William Melville Hall, of an old and wealthy Irish family. He was b. in Boss Castle, Lakes of Killarney. He d. June 21. 185,-;, in :\rontreal. Three Children : (806) i. Richard Bronsdon'^ Hall, b. July 19, 1845; m. in 1870, Janet Wylie, who was b. ^Nlay 26, 1845. They have one son : (807) i. WlUlam Melvilh^ Hail, b. in ^Montreal, Jan. 30. 1872, and m. Annie "SI. Swan of Saratoga, N.Y., June 11, 1896. (808) ii. Elizabeth Martha' Hall, b. June 25, 1847; m. June 20. 1867, Thomas Montgomery. ^Nlrs. Hall, the mother, and Mrs. Montgomery res. together in Montreal. 190 PART I. Seven Children, b. in Montreal : (809) i. Will lam Bronsdon^ Montgomery, b. Mar. 29, 1869; d. Dec. 30, 1879. (810) ii. Elizabeth Ethel^ Montgomery, b. Nov. 7, 1870; m. June 20, 1898, by Canon Ellegood at the Church of St. James the Apostle, Mr. Fred- erick St. George Stroud, son of Alderman Stroud of Montreal. Mrs. Stroiul d. 1900, and the funeral was held Oct. 13, at the church where she was m. Two Children : (811) i. , 9 Stroud, b. Mar., 1899. (811;) ii. , '' Stroud, b. Oct. 8, 1900. (813) iii. 3Ialjel Lillian^ Montgomery, b. Dec. 11, 1871; m. J. Ross Dobbin of Montreal. (814) iv. Thomas liaW Montgomery, b. Oct. 29, 1873. (815) V. Alice Maude^ Montgomery, b. Sept. 19, 1875. (816) vi. Norman HaW Montgomery, b. Oct. 13, 1884. (817) vii. Dorothy HaW Montgomery, b. Aug. 30, 1894. (818) iii. Jane ye/vman'' Hall, b. 1849 ; d. May 2, 1894 ; m. Angus Mcintosh. Ciiildren, b. in Montreal : (819) i. Lillian Mary^ Mcintosh, b. • — , • (820) ii. Alice Estelle^ Mcintosh, b. , (821) iii. Angus^ Mcintosh, Jr., b. — , (805) Joshua Lawrence Bronsdon^ (Joseph R.^, Bant^, Jr., Baxt^, Benj.'^, Eobt.^). He was b. in Montreal, Can., Jan. 27, 1835 ; m. June 7, 1860, Kather- INE Walton Herbert, dau. of John Winchester and Katherine (Fvay) Herbert. She is a descendant of Barbara Heck, the foundress of Method- ism in the United States and Canada. Mrs. Bronsdon was. b. in Montreal, July 7, 1843. Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Bronsdon res. in Toronto, Can., at 1716 Spadina Avenue. They have had ten children, the first five b. in INTontreal, the remainder in Toronto. (822) i. Joseph Herbert Bronsdon:', b. Xov. 11, 1861 ; m. May 23, 1888, Harriet Hartley of Belfast ; four children : (823) i. Herbert Hartley Bronsdon^, b. Apr. 19, 1889. (824) ii. Violet Armstrong Bronsdon"^, b. Oct. 8, 1891. (825) iii. Ella Mary Bronsdon\ b. June 6, 1893. (826) iv. Edith Iluth, Bronsdon^, b. Feb. 20, 1900. BRONSDON FAMILY. ]\tl (8L'7) ii. Elizabeth Lorlmj ilnnisdon', h. A]ii-. 7. ISOI ; m. \Villi:iiii ileiirv Smith, b. in Toronto, Can., Aug. IG, iSllo. 'ri,ey res. in Toronto. ChUr<( llohjate^ Smith, h. .Iiiiii' 12, IS'.)."}. (831) iv. KIi::a1,rth Tlnnisilnn'^ Sinltli. h. Dec 2".. ISOfi. (832) iii. Amy BronsdoiV, b. May 8, 18(;(;; d. May 10, 18GG. (833) iv. mia Herbert Bronsdon'', b. June 27, 18G7. (834) V. Catherine Beatrice liro/isdo/i'', h. Sept. 2~>, 18G8: d Sept 18G9. (835) vi. Lawrence TVi/liam- Brn7isd(>ii'',h. Veh. 2,1^7] ; ni. ,Ju]v In. isii-t, at Mianiiburg, 0., Cora IJice of Toolev, W. Va. Slie was b! Jan. 30, 1873. (83G) vii. Thomas Brojisdcm', b. Oct. 22, 1872. (837) viii. Geor;/e Ernest Bronsdon\ b. Oct. 2G, 187G. (838) ix. Charles Livingston Bronsdon'', b. Nov. 22, 1878. (839) X. Edith Gertrude Brovsdun\\). July 13, 1880. 192 PART 1. (2S1) William Bkonsdok* (Bant^, Benj.'-, E,obt.^). [See also (B 16) Part II.] (287) William Bronsdon'' was the youngest son of (196) Bant and Elizabeth (Box) Bronsdon of Boston. He was b. Feb. 11, 1761 ; bapt. at King's Chapel, Boston, Mar. 10, 1762 ; m. Ruth Eich of Truro, Mass., about 1786, and d. at Phillipston, Worcester Co., Mass., Nov. 3, 1831. His wife d. June 25, 1828. Children, one b. at Truro, the others in Gerry (Phillipston after 1812), Mass. : (840) i. Jane Bronsdon^, b. May 3, 1787; d. Oct. 15, 1869; m. Benj. Lamb. See below. (841) ii. WUliavi Bronsdorv', Jr., b. May 10, 1795 ; d. May 31, 1856. See below. Seventeen children. He was thrice m. : first, Dorcas Doane ; second, Phebe Lewis ; third, Martha Holt. (842) iii. Elizabeth {Betsey) Bronsdon^, b. Sept. 10, 1798 ; d. May 8, 1882 ; m. Will. Lacy. See below. (843) iv. Reheecu Dennis Brnnsdnn\ b. Jan. 18, 1805; d. Feb. 3, 1871; 111. Feb. 10, 1846, Ezekiel Cutler (second wife) of LoAver Water- ford. Vt. No children. (844) V. Hannah Lewis Bronsdon^, b. Aug. 29, 1807; d. July 18, 1891. She was very useful, and beloved by her friends. Biography. (287) William Bronsdon followed the family bent and became a sailor. He was captain of a whaling ship. His wife, Ruth Rich, was the daughter of a Cape Cod sea captain, Thatcher Rich of Truro. (See Rich family. Appendix.) There is a period of eight years between the births of their first and second children. Some time during these eight years Captain Bronsdon purchased land in Gerry (now Phillipston) and, in company with friends and neighbors from the Cape, removed to that place, but did not relinquish his seafaring life for several years after. In Gerry the family attended the Methodist Church and Rev. Joseph Estabrook was their pastor. Both Capt. l^)ronsdon and his wife were greatly respected and beloved. His grand-daughter, now living, states that he was fond of children, and that he made a pet and companion of her in his loneliness after the death of his wife. He was a lover of nature, also ; and when, at sunset, they walked up on "Baldwin Hill," the inspiration of the beautiful outlook would cause him to sing for joy some grand old hymn. He had a very fine tenor voice, and its music has dwelt in the memory of his little grand- BRONSDON FAMILY. | j,;; daughter until now she herself is aged. Tlu; habit ul tl... suiU..- was slroi.-^ and he would often walk the house as though on the deck of a shij. and uu stormy nights he would say to the children : " U, the poor sailors are' having a hard tune to-night ! " In stature Capt. lironsdon was small. The farm was mostly managed by Capt. Bronsdon's only son, who liv.-d at home with his wife. ^\ith Capt. lironsdon was also living I'aschai S and Anne L. Bronsdon, the children of his deceased brother, Ikint l5r..nsdoM\ Jr., of l^oston. Their home life was very happy, and it was a blow to botli' father and son when the wife of each one died within a period of two weeks. In a short time William 15ronsdon, Jr., married again, and his second wife wishing to remove to Athol, Mass., the home in i'hillipston was left in charge of Rebecca and Hannah Bronsdon, daughters of Capt. Bronsdon : the children of the first wife of William Bronsdon, Jr., were also left with their grandfather and aunts. Capt. William Bronsdon Avas a member of the order of Free Masons. He died in Phillipston. (840) Jane Bronsdon^ (William^ IUxt^, Bknj.-, Robt.^). (840) Jane Bronsdon^ was the oldest child of (287) William^ and Ruth (Rich) Bronsdon, and was b. May 2, 1787, in Truro, Mass. She m., 1807, Benjamin Lamb, Avho was b. Feb. 23, 1782, and d. Apr. IG, 18r)4. Jane Bronsdon^ d. at Phillipston, Oct. 15, 1869, where she and her husband had resided nearly all their lives. They were respected and beloved for their upright and excellent qualities. She was industrious, prudent, and deeply religious. She was noted for her housewifely skill. Children : (845) i. Soj)hroma^ Lamb, h. Feb. 15, 1808 ; m. David F. Lamb; d. Apr., 1888, at riiillipston — a worthy daughter of a worthy mother. She left no children. (84C) ii. Ruth Rich^ Lamb, b. May 15, 1810 : d. May 27, 1891 ; m. Amos S. Cummings ; ten children. See below. (847) iii. William Jarksott^ Lamb, b. May 11, 1813; d. Jan. 7, 1895; m. Augusta L. Cummings ; eight children. See below. (848) iv. Eli Brighavi^ Lamb, b. Feb. 11, 1816 ; d. Aug. 13, 1891 ; m. first. Charlotte Woodward ; second, Caroline R. I^all. See below. (849) V. Eliz(( Jane^ Lamb, b. July 2, 1818 ; d. Ai-r. 30, 1873 ; m. .lairus Gilbert ; live children. See below. (846) Ruth Rich^ Lamb (Jane^, William^, Bant', Benj.-', Robt.';. She was the second child of (840) Jane (Bronsdon) and Benjamin Lamb of Phillipston ; b. May 15, 1810 ; m. Amos S. Cummings, and d. i\Iay 27, 1891. They were exemplary Christians and zealous in the cause of temperance. They have numerous descendants. 13 194 PART 1. Children, ten in number, all b. in Phillipston ; two d. in infancy : (850) i. Charles' Cummings, b. Mar., 1825 ; m. Mary Ann Cummings. (851) ii. James A? Cummings, b. Jan. 30, 1830 ; d. Sept. 14, 1876 ; m. Althine Bryant. (852) iii. Jason G? Cummings, b. Oct. 18, 1835; d. May 23, 1869; m. Frances J. Lamb. (853) iv. Joel Doane'' Cummings, b. July 28, 1837 ; m. Hattie E. Thompson. (854) V. Awdia E? Cummings, b. July 31, 1842; d. Aug. 29, 1872; m. Martin Hichardson. (855) vi. Sumner GJ Cummings, b. Feb. 12, 1846; m. first, Antha John- son ; second, Sarah T. Gore. (856) vii. Sarah E? Cummings, b. Sept. 14, 1848; m. Geo. M. Caldwell. (857) viii. Davis L? Cummings, b. Jan. 20, 1851 ; m. Martha J. Cudworth. Charles, Jason G. and Joel G. Cummings were soldiers in the War of the Rebellion. (847) William J.« Lamb (Jane^, William^ Baxt^ Benj.^, Robt.^). He was b. May 13, 1813 ; m. Sept. 15, 1833, Augusta L. Cummings. He d. Jan. 7, 1895, and she d. Jan. 29, 1895, at Winchendon, Mass., their home. He served in the 34th Regt., M.Y. M., in the Civil War. Ten Children (all m. and have numerous descendants) : (858) i. Wni. HP Lamh,h.0ct.*d,\d,3^; served in the 53d Regt., M.V. M. ; m. Frances Whitcomb. (859) ii. Amos SJ Lamb, b. Nov. 19, 1836 ; m. Dolly R. Brown. (860) iii. Frances J? Lamb, m. Jason Cummings; second, Chas. INI. Bates. (861) iv. Addphia B.' Lamb, m. Geo. B. Townsend ; second, David God- dard of Orange. (862) V. Climena M? Lamb, b. July 6, 1848 ; m. Henry F. Ward. (863) vi. Ezra Carter'' Lamb, b. Jan. 1, 1853; m. first, Martha Sawtelle ; second, Nettie Sherwin. (864) vii. Abbie Loretta'' Lamb, b. July 26, 1856 ; m. Freeman T. AVard. (848) Eli Brigham« Lamb (Jane^ William*, Bant^ Benj.^, Robt.^). Eli B.« Lamb was b. Feb. 11, 1816 ; m. twice and d. Aug. 13, 1891. Five Children ; three by first wife, Charlotte Woodward, whom he m. Sept. 5, 1838 ; two by second wife, Caroline R. Ball, whom he m. Mar. 28, 1853 : (865) i. Piuth a:' Lamb, b. July 20, 1839 ; m. Leander W. Lamb. (866) ii. Martha CJ Lamb, b. Mar. 25, 1843 ; m. Nathan S. Day. (867) iii. Fannie M.'' Lamb, b. May 6, 1846 ; m. F. W. Knapp. (86S) iv. Lucu J? Lamb, b. Mar. 11, 1855; m. J. E. Amidon. (869) V. Luke R.'' Lamb, b. Apr. 30, 1863 ; m. Carrie Chipman. Eli B.^ Lamb has many descendants. BKONSDON FAMILY. Iii5 (849) Eliza Jane« Lamb (Jaxk/-, W ilmam'. Ham'', |;,,n.,.-. K,„.t.»). (849) Eliza Jane Lamb, iiftli and youn,tr,.st child cf (S-JO) .laiie (Bronsdou) and Benjamin Lamb of riiillipston, Mass., was 1.. in IMiillipstcn July 2, 1818 ; m. Nov. 21, 183r,, Jainis Gilhkkt, wI.o was h. N„v. (',, ]S()(] and d. Dec. 14, 1864. She d. Apr. .SO, 1873, having m. .Inl,,, d, vx. Five Children (by first luisband) : (870) i. 31a)'ij Jane' Gilbert, b. I\Lay Vo, 1838 ; m. .Ian. 1, l.S(;i \-ithan W. Holden of Worcester, who was b. Oct. 11. ls;57' and 'd Aug. o, 1893. Mrs. Holden res. in Nortli I'.rookfiehl, Mass One daugliter : (871) i. Mary KJizaheth^ Holden, b. Aug. 27, 1805; res. in Worcester. (872) ii. HannaW Gilbert, b. Jan. 29, 1841 ; m. , , Charles :^r son of Mary B. (Peckham), b. Sept. G, 1815, and Charles 'h' Perry, b. Jan. 17, 1804, and m. Apr. 20, 1835. Mrs. Perry d. Feb. 1, 1866, and Mr. Perry m. second, Nellie M. Gariield and d. May 22, 1897. Children by first wife, two in number : (873) i. Flora A.' Ferry, b. Nov. 5, 1859 ; m. ,Jan. 25, 1881, William Forsyth. They have had four children : (874) i. Ee7ia E.^ Forsyth, b. at Ashland, Sept. 11, 1883. (875) ii. Blanche E." Forsyth, b. at Worcester, Oct. 9, 1887. (876) iii. Flora J/.^ Forsyth, b. at Worcester, Oct. 10, 1889. (878) iv. Charles Wy Fors>/tk, b. at Ashland, Am;. 29 1894; d. Jan. 9, 1896. (879) ii. Warren If J Ferry, h. Feb. 15, 1862 ; d. Aug. IS, 3864. (880) iii. David Henry'' Gilbert, b. Mar. 18,1845; m. Jan. 6, 1865, Ann Elizabeth, dau. of Wm. and Rose Hancock of Dublin, Ire., and d. Aug. 10, 1882; Mrs. Gilbert m. second, E. 1'. Kelley, and res. in Oxford, ]Mass. Children, \\'arren H.\ Mary J.«, Alicia F.* (d. young), Estella A.^ (d. young). (881) iv. George Ferleif Gilbert, b. Mar. 22, 1848; m. in 1868, Jennie Hawes. Pes. in Worcester. Seven children, all living but one : (882) i. Annie M.^ Gilbert, m. L. O. Woodcock. (883) ii. Ella S.^ Gilbert, m. J. E. Stevenson. (884) iii. Fiord E.^ Gilbert, m. G. D. Mansfield. (885) iv. Franklin P.» Gilbert, b. Nov. 22. 1877. (886) V. Wm. W.' Gilbert, d. young. (887) vi. Geo. L. C.^ Gilbert, b. May 20, 1887. 196 PART I. (841) William Bronsdon^ Jr. (William^ Bant^, Benj.-, Robt.^). m. first, 1817, Dorcas Doane. second, 1829, Bhebe Lewis. third, 1840, Martha Holt. (841) William Bronsdon^, Jr., was the second child and only son of (287) Capt. William'' and Ruth (Rich) Bronsdon of Phillipston (Gerry, before 1812), and was b. at Phillipston, May 10, 1795, and bapt. by the Methodist minister. Rev. Joseph Estabrook, July 5, 1795. He d. at Athol, May 31, 1856. His first wife, Dorcas, was b. at Eastham, May 14, 1797, and dau. of Thankful (Mayo) and Capt. Jesse Doane, her parents being among those who came from Cape Cod at the same time that the Bronsdons settled in Gerry. Dorcas d. in Phillipston, July 11, 1828, when her sixth child was two weeks old. She was a refined and delicate woman, and like a sunbeam in her home. She and her husband's mother d. within a period of two weeks, leaving Capt. Bronsdon and his son widowers, and several small children motherless ; they were cared for by William's sisters, Rebecca and Hannah. The baby died. William Bronsdon m. second, Phebe Lewis At the time, he was carrying on his father's farm. Miss Lewis was from Athol, and in a few months after their marriage they removed to that place, leaving the four children of the first wife with their grandfather Bronsdon and their aunts. Phebe (Lewis) Bronsdon d. about 1836, leaving three chil- dren ; and William m. third, Martha, dau. of Aretlmsa (Hagar) andEbenezer Holt of Athol, who was b. Apr. 2, 1817, and was consequently 22 years younger than her husband. She had eight children, making in all the family of AYilliam Bronsdon, Jr., to number seventeen children, the first seven b. in Phillipston, the other ten in Athol, Mass. Children were : (888) i. Henry Knoicles Bronsdon^, b. 1818 ; d. young. (889) ii. Hennj Knovdes BronscUm^ b. Mar. 7, 1820 ; d. Feb. 28, 1842 (named for his mother's twin brother). He was a very prom- ising young man. (890) iii. EUzabeth Ann Bronsdon^, h.l^o\. 11 , 1^21 \ m. Sidney Pushee. (891) iv. Lijsiinder Bascom Bronsdon^, b. Sept. 3, 1823 ; m. twice. See below. (892) V. ThanlcfuJ Amelia Bronsdon^, b. Aug. 3, 1825 : m. twice. See below. (893) vi. Dorcas Sophia Bronsdon\ b. July 27, 1828 ; d. April, 1829. (894) vii. William Leiois Bronsdon^ b. Nov. 28, 1829 ; d. Aug. 12, 1874. See below. (895) viii. Sumner Morse Bronsdon'^, b. May 3, 1832 ; m. See below. (896) ix. Eleanor Bronsdon^, b. 1835; m. Calvin Barnes; d. May,. 1858; one child. BRONSDON FAMILY. ]97 (897) X. Susan Rebecca Bronsdon^, h. Feb. L'?. ls|| ; ,|. j),.,. 'j.-,^ ISfJO- single. (898) xi. WiUlam Tlnr/le)/ Bronsdon'^, h. Oct. 'jr>, 1.S4L' ; ,|. Ai.r. !», l.S<>;{. See below. (899) xii. Arethnsa Bronsdon^h. Oct. 25, 1S4I ; m. W . .1. l;,,j^rprs. See below. (900) xiii. .7a7«; Bronsdoii", b. Nov. 2, 1845; d. Sept. 0, ISIO. (901) xiv. JaneB)'ons,/o7i%h.'SlaY2r),lS-i7; m. Chester T. I lou-l. ton. See below. (902) XV. Ileiir// Harrison Bronsdon^, b. Oct. 2, 1850 ; m. See below. (903) xvi. Lllla Maria 7//v;»,s7^««, b. Sept. 13, 1853 ; in. Greenwood. See below. (904) xvii. George Washington Bro)isdon% b. Feb. 22, 1856; d. Dec. 18, 1857. (890) Elizabeth Ann Bronsbon* (William^ William^, I'.ant', Bf:nj.2, ROBT.^). She was the third child of (841) William and Dorcas (Doane) Brons- don, b. Nov. 17, 1821 ; m. at Phillipston, July 2, 1845, Sidney Abram PusHEE, who was b. at Lyme, N. H., Aug. 20, 1822. He was a soldier in the Civil War, 25th Mass. Regt. ; d. at Lyme, N. H., Jan. 30, 1887. His funeral and burial were at Worcester, Mass., in Hope Cemetery, just forty- two years from his wedding day. Three Children ; only one, Emma A.'', b. Dec. 25, 1854, is living. (891) Ly.sandek Bascom Bronsdon*' (William^, William^ I'-Axr^, Benj.-, ROBT.I). He was b. Sept. 3, 1823 ; m. first, Mary E. Thompson, who d. Feb. 11, 1859 ; m. second, Mrs. Php:be (Humeston) Thompson, his wife's sister- in-law, and also the step-daughter of his sister, Thankful Amelia. He was a whole-souled and lovable man, very hospitable. Mrs. Humeston lived with him and kept his books. He was a builder. He d. in consequence of a paralytic shock, and was cared for by his sister in his last days. He had no children and had been a widower for many years. (892) Thankful Amelia Bronsdon'' (William*, William\ I'.ant', Benj.-, Robt.^). She was b. Aug. 3, 1825 ; m. first. Mar. 17, 1853, Rev. Warren Coover of Suffield, Conn. He d. at Springfield, Mass., Mar. 25, 18(34. He united with the Baptist Church at Suffield when 12 years old. His widow m. 1866, Bishop Humeston, who d. , . Mrs. Humeston res. in Baldwin- 198 PART I. ville. She lias collected the records of nearly all the descendants of her grandfather, William Bronsdon*, thus meriting their and our gratitude. Child : (905) i. Amelia Sophia' Cooper, b. at Keeseville, K.Y., Oct. 30, 1854 ; m. at Holyoke, Mass., Milan Nary. Their dau., Leona A.^ m Joseph A. Dunbar of Athol and d. in one year, leaving son : (906) Maurire Goodrich'' Dunbar, b. , 1891. (894) William Lewis Bronsdon® (William^, William*, Bant^, Benj.^, Robt.^). He was the son of (841) William Bronsdon, Jr., and his second wife, Phebe (Lewis), and was b. in Phillipston, Nov. 28, 1829. His parents removed to Athol when he was an infant. He m. at So. Vernon, Vt., Nov. 24, 1852, Abigail Walkek Holt, the sister of his father's third wife. He was a blacksmith, and lived at Athol ; later, removed to the West. He d. Aug. 12, 1874, and his widow m. Mr. Henry M. Burgess, and res. in Minneapolis. She revisited her home in New England in 1898. Children, all b. in Athol, Mass : (907) i. Flora Bronsdon\ b. July 24, 1854 ; m. at Ripon, Wis., Sept. 18, 1872, Almon K. Pepper, who was b. July 30, 1851, at Rush- ton, Pa., and d. from an accident at Sheboygan Falls Depot, July 17, 1893. Four Children : (908) i. WUJknn Henr}/ Pepper, b. Oct. 29, 1873 ; m. Meda Whittemore. (909) ii. Charles Almon^ Pepper, b. June 7, 1875; m. Alma Russell. (910) iii. James Aurin^ Pepper, b. Apr. 21, 1878. (911) iv. Mabel Clare^ Pep>per, b. Nov. 20, 1879. (912) ii. Frank Aurin Bronsdon', b. May 4, 1855 ; m. Nov. 2, 1880, Rosa, dau. of John B. and Regula Kundert, who emigrated from Switzerland to America. They res. at Mantonville, Wis., and Mr. Bronsdon carries on blacksmithing and carriage repairing as his father formerly did. Children, b. in Mantonville, Wis. : (913) i. Frank Elbert Bronsdon^, b. Apr. 9, 1883. (914) ii. Minnie Regvla Bronsdon^, b. June 18, 1886. (915) iii. Lea Madeline Bronsdon', b. Mar. 16, 1889. (916) iv. Btdh Abbij Bronsdon\ b. July 10, 1892. (917) V. Holt Kundert Bronsdon', b. Mar. 5, 1894. (918) iii. Herbert Edgar Bronsdon', b. Mar. 10, 1857 ; d. Dec. 2, 1886, at Mantonville, Wis. ; m. Minnie Smith of Oshkosh, Wis... 1884. BKONSDON FAMILY. 1 99 (895) Sumner Morse Bronsdon^ (William^, AV 11,1,1 a m^, 1;.\.m», I'.k.n.i.^ ROBT.^). He was b. May 3, 1832, and now, 1900, res. at Uciliii, Wis. 11.- i„. :it Vernon, Vt., Apr. 2, 1853, Miss Jane Bills, who was b. at Jirattleboro, Vt., Nov. 22, 1826. They removed from Baldwiuville, Mass., to ]{erliii, Wis., where Mrs. Bronsdon d. Jan. 31, 1856. One Son, b. in Baldwinvilh" (Town of Templeton) Mass. : (919) i. Frederick Sumner Brnnsdon'', b. Jan. 31, isnC; m. .Inly 2G, 1884, Melissa Jane Bradley, who was b. at Farmiii,!.;tuii, Wis., June 5,^ 1861. They res. at Auroraville, Wis., where they have a fine dairy farm of 146 acres. Children, b. at Auroraville : (920) i. Ida May Bronsdon', b. Feb. 23, 1887. (921) ii. Florence Jane Bronsdon', b. Feb. 27, 1889. (922) iii. Frederick Lyle Sumner Bronsdon', b. July 1, 1899. (898) William Tingley Bhonsdon® (William^ W'illiam^, Bant', Benj.^, Robt.^). He was the son of (841) William Bronsdon^, Jr., and his tliird wife Martha (Holt), and was b. at Athol, ]\Iass., June 27, 1842; m. at Win- chendon, Mass., Jan. 19, 1868, by Rev. Father Moran, Miss Dortha Kings- ton Abbott, b. Jan. 8, 1843, at Ormistown, Canada East, and dau. of Allen and Barbara (McGill) Abbott. Mr. W. T. Bronsdon served in the 53d Regt., M. V. M., during the Civil War. He was a member of the- G. A. R. and A. 0. U. W. His wudow resides at Baldwiuville. Children : (923) i. Allen Abbott Bronsdon'', b. in Templeton (village of Baldwiuville) Mass., Sept. 25, 1869; m. at Keene, N. H., Oct. 17, 1895, by Rev. Mr. De Bevoise, Susie Crosby Abbott, dau. of Relief (Bosworth) and Warren Abbott of Keene, N. II. j\lr. Brons- don is a graduate of Lay College, Revere, Mass., 1895. Was appointed general secretary of the Y. M. C. A., and lived at Clinton, INIass., from Sept., 1895, to May, 1897, and at Keene until Sept., 1897. Ordained to Congregational ministry at Oakham, Mass., Dec. 2, 1897. Child : (924) i. William Abbott Bronsdon', b. Nov. 15, 1896, at Clinton. (925) ii. Ella Maria Bronsdon' , b. Sept. 25, 1869 ; d. Oct. 21. 1S75. (926) iii. Bessie May Bronsdori?, b. July 6, 1883 ; res. at home with her mother. 200 PART I. (899) Akethusa Bronsdon® (William^, William*, Bant^, Benj.^, ROBT.^). She was b. Oct. 25, 1844, at Athol ; m. Oct. 5, 1861, by Elder Fay, William J. Rogers, who was b. at Wendell, Mass., May 9, 1838, and was son of Artemas Rogers. He was in the 36th Mass. Eegt. during the Civil War. He d. July 9, 1837. They have descendants : three children living, George H.'', Vina B.'^ and Charles F.'^ Rogers. (903) Henry Harrison Bronsdon* (William^, William*, Bant^, Ben.j.-, Robt.^). Henry Harrison BR0NSD0N^ son of (841) William Bronsdon, Jr., and his third wife, Martha (Holt), was b. at Athol, Mass., Oct. 2, 1850 ; m. Oct. 19, 1879, at So. Vernon, Vt., Angelia Aurista Holt, who was b. Dec. 9, 1859, and dau. of Aaron Holt of Athol. Mr. and Mrs. Bronsdon res. at Warwick, Mass. They have five children living: (927) i. Eva Mm/ Bronsdon'', b. Aug. 24, 1880. (928) ii. Benjomiti FranUln Bronsdon\ b. Oct. 27, 1882. (929) iii. Lniu Sophia Bronsdor,\ b. Feb. 23, 1887. (930) iv. Ida Belle Bronsdon\ b. Feb. 22, 1889. (931) V. Annie Angelia Bronsdon'' , b. June 12, 1892. (903) Lilla Maria Bronsdon® (William^, William*, Bant^, Benj.', ROBT.^). She was the sixteenth and youngest surviving child of (841) AVilliam Bronsdon, Jr. Her mother was Martha (Holt) Bronsdon. She was b. at Athol, Mass., Sept. 13, 1853; m. Apr. 13, 1876, at Franklin, Mass., Mr. Alonzo S. Greenwood, who was b. — , , and son of Maria (Adams), b. at Newport, R.I., Sept. 6, 1834, and Seneca A. Greenwood, b. at South- boro, Mass., June 2, 1825. Mr. Greenwood is a mason by trade and res. at Franklin. Child : (932) i. (iUhert Alviii' Greenwood, b. Apr. 29, 1879. (Infant daughter died.) BRONSDON FAMILY. oo] OIIS- (843) Elizabeth (Bktskv) JJuonsdon'^ (W im.iam'. |;ant«, Hkn.,.^ KOBT.^). She was tlie third c-hikl of (L>87) Capt. William and Kuth (liud., IJ,...,- don, and was b. in Phillipston (then Gerry), Mass., Sept. 10, 17<)S ■ „> M-iy 27, 1829, at Phillipston, by the Rev. Jcseplr Chickerinfr, Wiiiian, I.a.v merchant, who was b. at Jaffrey, K H., Nov. 9, 1795; d. at East Jaffrcy! K H., June 20, 1809. She d. thirteen years after. May 8, 1882. Churcli records of Phillipston give her baptism : ''Nov. 11^1798. Then was baptized Betsey, daughter of William Bronsdon and Ruth his wife by Ebenezer Tucker." This Rev. Ebenezer Tucker was a native of Milton, Mass., and an .,ld acquaintance of the Bronsdon family. He was for several years setth' j o iv. Lydia Story, bapt. (?) Mar. 26, 1718-9; m. John Box. (See Box family). V. William Story, b. Apr. 25, 1720; d. at Marblehead, Nov. 2-J. 171)9; m. first, Elizabeth Marion, Aug. 13, 1741, three children; m. sec- ond, Joanna Appleton, ^lay 14, 1747, seven children ; third, Abi- gail Marshall, Feb. 29, 1776, no children. 206 PART II. Mr. Story d. Sept. 20, 1725, aged 42 years, and IMrs. Story d. June 28, 1741, aged 58 years. She was left with two children, aged 7 and 5 years> besides her children by her first husband. The Story Homestead. . '•'Jan. 29, 1710. Allowance to Build. To Elisha Storey to Erect a Timber building for a Dwelling house of 39 foot length 18 foot width and 17 foot stud on his land abutting on Cambridge Street in Boston to stand with one end thereof fronting the s^^ street in the room and stead of an Old building of about the same length there now Standing which was formerly the Dwelling House of M"" Jeremiah Fitch dec'' which he intends to Demollish." (See 29th Report of Boston Eec. Commissioners.) The following Will was important in its bearing upon the fortunes of John Box : WILL OF ELISHA STORY. [See Suffolk Probate.] I Elisha Story of Boston in New England being in good health of body and of sound mind and memory praised be God therefor considering the frailty of my Body and uncertainty of my life Do make and ordain this my present last Will and Testament in manner and form following. That is to say first and principally I Commend my soul unto the Hands of Almighty God hoping for pardon and remission of all my sins through the alone merits Death and Passions of my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ and to inherit Eternal Life and my Body I committ to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my executors herein named And as touching such Temporal Estate it hath pleased God to bestow upon me I Give Devise and Dispose thereof in manner as followeth. First I will that all my just debts and Funeral Charges be paid and Discharged Item I Give and Bequeath unto my loving Wife Sarah Story the one third part of all my estate here in Boston Reall and Personal for and during the terme of her natural life with the use and Improvement of my whole estate while she do Continue my Widow for her Comfortable subsistence and for bringing up my Children and Furthermore I Give and Bequeath unto s^ wife her heirs and assigns forever all that my lot of lands in Nottingham in the Province of New Hampshire with the whole Proprietie- Priviledges and Appurtenances thereunto in anywise appertaining the which lot is Number Thirty-Six in Fish Street. Item. I Give and Bequeath unto my Wife her two Children she had by her former Husband to wit : Clement Renouf and Rebecca Renouf and their heirs forever all that my other Lot in s*' Nottingham number fourteen drawn in the name of Clement Renouf with the whole Proprietie Priviledges and Appurtenances thereunto belonging or in anywise appertaining which shall be equally divided between them two, share and share alike, the which Lot is in North Street. All my Estate Real and Personal whatsoever lying and Being in Boston afores"^ I Give and Bequeath unto my own Children to be Equally Divided BOX fa:\iit,v. of)j among them as they Respectively shall come to Lawful a^e or inaniaKt* J)av always reserving unto my Wife their Mother her thirds aforesaid during her natural life. And I do hereby nominate and appoint my said Wiii- witii my loving brother Thomas Daws to be the Executors of this my last Will ^"t Testament. In Witness whereof I have Hereunto set my Hand and Seal tlie Sixth Day of January in the year of our Lord God One Thousand Seven Hundred and Twenty-three. (signed) Kmsha Stoi;v (seal) In presence of John Smith, Mary Hart and John Cole. The will was probated Sept. 30, 1725. Division of Story Estate. A Warrant to Divide was Issued l)y Hon"* Josiah Willard Dec 31 1743. (See Vol. 36, No. 5138, Suffolk Probate.) "Elisha Storeys Real Estate Division." " Suffolk IT We the Subscribers being chosen and Ajipointed by the Hon"'' Josiah Willard Escf Judge of Probate &c to make just and equal division of the Real Estate whereof Elisha Storey late of Boston in County of Suffolk deed siezed in fee situated in Boston aforesaid between his son William Storey and his daughter Lydia Box in equal moyetys pursuant to his last Will as by the Warrant to us directed bearing date the thirty-hrst day of December last, present reference thereto being had, may fully approve. Now therefore we the subscribers pursuant to the said Warrant to us directed as aforesaid went on and to the said Estate whereof the said Elisha Storey dyed siezed and after deliberate and mature consideration had We do proportion and sett off the same in manner and forme following That is to say AVe assign and set off to the said William Storey only son of the s** Deed as his full proportion of the estate of his late said father the rear parts of the Dwelling House wherein he now dwells with the kitchen next thereto adjoining and land \nuler the same situate in Cambridge street so called in said Boston beginning at the middle of the Front door and running upon a straight line to M"" Benjamin Fitchs land bounded easterly by a passage-way of six feet hereinafter by these presents set off to lye in common and there measuring thirty-three feet six inches more or less westerly by M"" Andrew Elliotts land and there measuring thirty-three feet six inches more or less and Northerly on the front part of said Dw^elling House herein- after by these presents set off to the said Lydia Box and there measuring eighteen and one-half feet more or less as also being that ]>iece or jiarcell being the front part of the land belonging to said House bounded as follows Northerly in the front on Cambridge street so called and there measuring fourteen feet more or less, easterly on M"" Storeys land ami there measuring twenty-one feet one inch more or less Southei'ly on land hereafter set oft' by these presents to Lydia Box and there measuring fourteen feet more or less and westerly on the passageway of six feet wide as aforesaid and there 208 " PART II. measuring twenty -one feet one inch more or less with the free and unin- terrupted nse and privilege of the well and pump and the Passageway from the Gate to the Pump and we so assign and set off to the said Lydia Box only daughter of the said Deed, as her full proportion of the real estate of her said Father the front part of the said Dwelling house running from the street upon a straight line to ]\P' Benjamin Fitchs land .... And we also assign and set off the stair case leading from the Front door to the Garret to lye in common for the free and uninterrupted use and improve- ment of the said William Storey and Lydia Box their heirs and assigns and that the Gate Front Door and Stair case Well and Pump be kept in repair equally by both parties And we the subscribers do unanimously agree and make this our Peport of the Division and Partition of the House and Land aforementioned according to our best skill and judgment. In Testimony whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals to these Presents this Twelfth Day of January Anno Domini One Thousand and Seven hundred and forty-three and in the seventeenth year of his Reign. In presence of (Signed) Will" Downe and a seal. Thos. Fleet Stephen Boutineau " " " ISTath'-'' Thwing. Jacob Parker " " " Joshua Blanchard " " " Thos. Foster " '• " " W^illiam Story, after the death of his first wife, Elizabeth (Marion), mortgaged his end of the house to John Box for £435 and removed to King Street (State), where he was living as a Crown officer when the mob attacked his house and sacked it, destroying his papers, etc. John Box bought the interest of William in the Story property, July, 1746, for £750. Mr. Story resigned his office as "Deputy Register of the Court of the Admiralty" in August, 1765. W^illiam Story has illustrious descendants, one of whom has been enshrined in the Hall of Fame by name — Chief Justice Joseph Story, one of the best known citizens of the United States in times past. His son was AVilliam Wetmore Story, who achieved marked distinction as poet and sculptor. Mr. Robert Marion Pratt has extensive Story Family records. His grandmother, Mrs. Eliza (Story) Pratt, was daughter of Dr. Elisha Story of Marblehead, the noted patriot. William Story died in Marblehead at the home of Dr. Elisha Story, his son. 150X FAMILY. o,,f, John Box\ '' Kdpk-makkk." [His daughter Ei izabkth m. Capt. Bant Buox.„o^•^ an.l .l.oy are U.o auro.inr. Lly] ' "" '' ''''' ^''' "' ''""■^' ^''^ ^^-^^ f'' •" ^ S '•'.?"-" I • ?ra- •^''t'' ^'''''' ''''°'' ^'^™^^^ ^'^°"°'^ ^^ ^^'^ ^^^""'^i^l' fe'^>'trv, was ^on ; ;/" . " "' ^''' ''^^1^'""'^ "^ ^^"^^^•■^•'^ *^" ^'•"- '--vvlecige in l.oO at Charlestown, wliere he asked for a settlement, and, soon after as the husband of Lydia Story, dau. of Elislia, in Boston. i;y a reference to the preceding article on Story family, it AviU be seen that he acquired a part of the Story homestead through his marriage to Lydia. Her mother reside.! ^vith them, dying in the summer of 1741, and a feu- months later, AVilliun. Story, who had also made one of their family, married and commenced housekeeping in a part of the house. William's wife, was a remarkably gifted and intelligent woman, and tradition says that Mrs. Box was very proud of her brother's choice. For Lydia (Story) Box's birth and parent- age, see preceding pages. Children of John and Ltdia Avere : (B 2) i. Elizabeth Box^h. , 173 — ; m. Capt. Bant Bronsdon. (See Bronsdon genealogy.) (B 3) ii. John Box-, bapt. Oct. 5, 1737; m. twice; d., 171)9 (B 4) iii. Lydia Box\ bapt. Mar. 4, 1738-9; bur. Sept. 11, 1743 (B 5) IV. Elisha Box% bapt. Apr. 11, 1740; bur. Sept. 11, 1743 (B 6) V. A7in Box% bapt. Mar. 14, 1741-2; bur. Sept. 18, 1743 (B 7) vi. Lydia Box% bapt. Apr. 24, 1745; m. William Hoskins. CSee below.) (B 8) vii. Sarah Box^ bapt. Oct. 28, 1747 ; m. Amos (?) Davis (B 9) vui. Ann Box% bapt. Nov. 22; bur. Nov. 27, 1749. (B 10) ix. Ilary Box% bapt. '-, 1757 ; bur. Dec. 30, 1799. John Box has descendants through his daughters, Elizabeth and Lydia, only. As the children of Lydia (Mrs. Hoskins) are equally related to all the Bronsdons, they and a portion of their descendants are included in this work, having been compiled by Mrs. William Gay Waitt (b. Eleanor Hoskins) for this Genealogy. Mr. Box engaged in business as a rope-maker. In 1743, he borrowed of Joseph Smith " 266 good Spanish milled dollars " to extend his business. He purchased of Ebenezer Storer, in 1755, a piece of land on "Bacon" Hill, 110 feet long by 77 feet wide. (See book 87, leaf 15, Suffolk Deeds.) In the Boston Weekly Newsletter of June 11, 1741, we find: •• Last Saturday night about one o'clock a Fire broke out at the liopewalk of M'" Box Avhieh consumed his store-house wherein was a considerable quantity of Hemp & Yarn and sundry Barrels of Tar. The fire was extinguished with much Difficulty, the Damage is computed at about £2000." The merchants of those days met with frequent and serious reverses. 14 210 PART ir. The land on " Bacon " Hill was purchased in the name of •' Box & Austin,"' which fixes 1755 as an approximate date of the formation of the partnership. In 1758 more land was acquired of Timothy Prout on George (Hancock) Street (see book 91, leaf 164, Suffolk Deeds). In 1760 they purchased extensively on George, Garden and May Streets (see book 91, leaf 46, 119, 258). Rope-making formed one of the principal branches of industry in the old Colony days. " Gleaner " (Nathaniel Bowditch), a writer of local history, states that there were fourteen rope-walks spinning all at once for a period of sixty years in Boston. Box & Austin did business largely as merchants, especially in the importation of cordage and other articles used for purposes of navigation, which were procured from abroad. They supplied vessels of the British Navy as well as the merchant marine, which were sent to the Port of Boston to be refitted by this celebrated firm. They had a sail loft at the North End where sails Avere cut and fitted. Their warehouse and office was on King Street, and narrowly escaped destruction in the great fire of 1760. The rope-walks were bounded northerly by Myrtle Street. Belknap (Joy) Street runs through their site. During the British occupation of Boston they were used as stables by the British cavalry. The land, before development, belonged to Judge Elisha Cooke and was known as Cooke's Pasture. Box & Austin's rope-walks between Myrtle and Pinckney Streets had a length of 361 feet. Another rope-Avalk of theirs separated Hancock Street from the Hancock estate by a width of 24 feet. On the corner of Hancock (then Turner) and Derne Streets Mr. Box erected a mansion-house, also other buildings on Hancock Street. His partner, Mr. Austin, was born in 1716, and was consequently much younger. He was traveled and educated and took a conspicuous part in public affairs. The dress of a gentleman of that day was very striking. Mr. Austin is described in a large white wig, scarlet roquelot, and carry- ing a gold-headed cane, and similar articles of apparel are noted in John Box's inventory. The rope-walks finally became the property of a Mr. Cade and were burned in 1794. Mr. Box is sometimes referred to as " Major," but we have found no evidence of military life on his part, although his brother was a naval com- mander in Egypt under Nelson. In the records of King's Chapel (corner of School and Tremont Streets, Boston) we find numerous Box records ; biit the marriage of John Box and Lydia Story, also the birth of their oldest child, Elizabeth (who m. Capt. Bronsdon), are missing, lost, probably, when the books took a hurried flight with the royalist rector, Mr. Caner, to Nova Scotia. All the succeeding children and grandchildren are recorded. Mr. Box purchased pew No. 91 BOX FAMILY. •_> J J in the gallery, Mar. 19, 1734, for £20. This indicates tliat lie was aliojuly married at that time, as young single men did not beronie i.cw-owiiprs ordinarily. He was vestryman in 1741, 17 11'. 17 1.'^^, 17f;i. 17(;."., 1771; Warden, either senior or junior, from 174G to 1754, inclusive. " Mar. 30"' 1755, Easter Monday it was voted that the Tlianks of the Congregation be given M'' John Box for his long and Good service as Warden of this Church." (Church records.) He acted as sponsor, with Mrs. liox and others, to various infants in baptism. For instance: "1751, July 3. Infant Henry Caner, John Box and Aim Caner, sponsors." "1750, July 8. Infant Mary Phillips, daughter of John & Ann Phillips. Mr. Box sponsor."' " — Infant James Gordon. John Box, sponsor." (K. C. records.) He gave towards rebuilding the present chapel two hundred pounds " Old Tenor," and later one hundred pounds "for its finishing"; also lie contributed three pounds and three shillings towards the purchase of the organ. He was present at the "Ceremoxies Attendant upon Laying the Cokner Stone of King's Chapel. "Between the hours of 10 and 11 in the Forenoon the Rev. M'' Caner accompanied by M'' Gordon, M'' Box and M'" Grayton were observed to go down School Street together on their way to His Excellency's House as was then generally conjectured and at about 11 the Procession began accordingly from the Province House. " First His Excellency Our Governour (Shirley) with the Pev. ^1'' Caner at his right and Rev. M'" Blackwell at his left hand proceeded. Then the Church Wardens (M'" Box & Gordon) vestry, &c. followed by about 25 couples of the Principal Friends. " When the Procession came to the Church Yard his Excellenc}- sup- ported by the two Chaplains descended the Trench where the stone which was dedicated to God was laying at the iSTorth East corner of the Church with the Inscription upwards which was then immediately turned by the workmen downwards in the Sacred place prepared for its Reception. " On this Stone the Governour knocked four times with a mason's trowel (just the number of raps Archbishop Laud gave the door of St. Catherine's Creed Church at his memorable consecration of it). Some devout expressions were then dropt by his Excellency and Chajdains. " The Governour then ascended the ladder and this i)art of the cere- mony being ended the company in the same manner they walked from the Province House entered the King's Chapel where was a sermon very projierly delivered by M'" Caner from the text: The God of Heaven He will prosper us therefore we His servants will arise and build. A Hymn of Praise concluded the solemnity." 919 PART 11. Extract from ''The Annals of King's Chapel" (published 1896 by Mr. Foote). "The convincing proof of the real character of the teaching and inflnence of the church is given by the character of the persons composing it After ahnost a century and a half we can clearly discern that many ot them were lield in marked respect and honor ... not merely receiving lip service on account of their wealth and office, but trusted with an excep- tional confidence. Such names as those of John Box . . . m business which testify not only to the social character, but to the moral and religious tone of the church." Dec 4 1746 John Box as Warden signed the " Request of the Pro- prietors of 'King's Chapel to the Eev. Henry Caner" to be Rector of said '^^March 4 1747. John Box as Junior Warden of King's Chapel signed the Petition 'of the Rev. Henry Caner and his Wardens for more land to enlarge the Church. , t i (See Records and Annals of King's Chapel for many references to John Box.) Mr John Box was one of the Honi^i<^ gody of Gentlemen who visited the ]^lblic Schools July 1, 1763. Other gentlemen were Mr. Hancock Jas. Burden, Andrew Oliver, Rev. Mr. Cooper, Dr. Chas. Chauncey, etc. They reported the schools all in very good order. (See Boston Town Records.) The autograph of John Box is reproduced in the Boston Memorial History. In a Masonic poem he is characterized as short in stature. John Box a Pree Mason. He was a prominent and active member of the Masonic Order, which he joined July 23, 1740. He was present at nearly every meeting of St. John's Grand Lodge, Boston, until just before his death in 1774. He held impor- tant offices in the Lodge. His name occurs^repeatedly in the records which have been published under the direction of the present Grand Recorder, Mr. Sereno D. Nickerson, who has courteously afforded us every proper facility in obtaining knowledge of John Box and John Box, Jr., who was also a member of the same Lodge. The Archives of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts contain the earliest Masonic Records now known to be in existence on this continent, dating from 1733. These records contain a reference to Benjamin Brimsdon (Bronsdon), who became a member in 1741. He was son of Benjamin Bronsdon2 (Robt.i) and was a ''mariner," and, it is said, finally resided permanently in England ; also to William Bant, who was a prominent Mason (see his life in Appendix) and Thomas Milliken, whose oldest daughter married David Vallette, and William Haskins, son-in-law of John Box, Sr. IJOX FAMILY. 213 Dec. 1773. Bro'' ]>ox was a Tall-hoiaer at tlie funeral of .M' i;.,l)ort Jenkins. It was very cold weather. In February, 1774, he was present at Col" IngersoH's with the lirclhrt'ii on special matters. (See Kowe's Diary.) In the Autumn of that year he died, Oct. ol, J 77 I. Mr. I.'mu.- thu.s speaks of his funeral : "3 ISTovem'' 1774. Thursday afternoon I attended the Fuuerall of Brother Box and was a Bearer together with James Pitts Esc], D'' Gardner, M'' Chandon, M'" Henderson Inches and j\F Gilbert Deblois. it was a hand- some funerall. The Free masons walked in proper f(.rm."' No. 1021 of Edes and Hill's Boston Gazette also printed the following obituary : " Oct. 31, 1774, died of a consumptive disorder and on Thursday, Nov. 3 was decently interred M^ John Box aged 75 (77) years who was for upwards of 40 years an eminent rope maker in this town. He was a man of a fair unblemished character, strictly just in his dealings, a Constant attender of Divine worship, several years in turn a Warden of King's Chapel and one of the Vestry. An assistant and promoter in rebuilding that Church. " He was no meddler in politics yet a well wisher to the publick welfare. He loved order and condemned too great a stretch of power, much esteemed by his A\^orthy acquaintance and by the public in general. He was a tender affectionate husband and parent. '' The Ancient and Honourable Society of Free Masons conducted his body to the burial place in token of a tender regard to their worthy deceased brother. " He has left a widow and several children of adult age to mourn the loss of a Husband and Parent." He is interred in his family tomb under King's Chapel. It is Xo. II, and the fourth from the front (Tremont Street) on the School Street side. There are twenty tombs under the Chapel. For plan and owners in 1813, see diagram in ''Annals of King's Chapel." Over the Box tomb is tlie inscription, " John Box, B, Haskins." The memory of John Box has been kept alive in the Bronsdon family by certain circumstances connected with his estate, Avhich was for many years in dispute. Until 1839 the IJronsdon heirs were claimants for the estate of their uncle, John Box, Jr., on Beacon Hill, Boston. Owing to a provision in the Will of John Box, Sr., the younger Box found himself unable to provide even for his widow, who was one of the Ervings of Boston, and the Bronsdons maintained and cared for her until she died, in 1814. Owing to the litigation concerning the estate, the Avhole was lost to the heirs. 214 PAKT 11. It passed into the liancls of prominent persons in Boston, who, by assuming the taxes, acquired a title wliicli was confirmed by the State Legislature in 1839. A few years ago our attention was attracted b}^ an announcement in the Boston Eoening Transcript by Miss Elizabeth Trott of Niagara Falls, K.Y., that among her father's papers were original documents relating to the early Box and Hoskins estates. After some correspondence, an old certified copj' of the Box Will was presented to (526) Margaret Emmeline Parker, a great- great-great-granddaughter of John and Lydia (Story) Box, and other papers relating to the Box and Hoskins families were given to Mrs. Eleanor (Hoskins) Waitt. Will of John Box, of Boston. (Copy.) [See Suffolk Probate, book 74, leaf 178.] In the name of God Amen. I John Box of Boston in the County of Suffolk and Province of the Massachiisetts Bay in New England, Rope maker, being weak in Body but of Sound Disposing Mind and Memory Do Make and Declare this my last Will and Testament in manner following to wit. Eirst relying on the Wisdom and Benignity of Almighty God, I Com- mend my Soul to His intire disposal not doubting through the Merits and Passion of Jesus Christ I shall receive a full Remission of all my sins and an Admission into the joys of Eternal life. My Body I commit to the earth to be decently buried at the Discretion of my executors hereinafter named : — Touching my worldly estate my Will is that all mj- Debts and funeral charges be paid in a convenient time after my decease. Item. I give Devise and Bequeath to my Beloved Wife Lydia one third part of all my real estate to hold the same for and during the term of her Natural life and in case Fire or other casualty should destroy any part of the said third part of my Real Estate then my Will is that my said Wife be alloAved a comfortable Subsistance out of the Residue of the said third part of said estate and I hereby authorize and impower my said executors to make sale of any part of the same for that purpose. Item. I give to my said Wife all my Plate and Household furniture my Gold Watch & seals my Negro girl Dinah and my Horse & Chaise to her and her heirs forever. Item. I Give to my Daughter Elizabeth Bronsdell (Bronsdon) widow of Bant Bronsdell late of said Boston deceased the sum of five shillings I having provided for her during my lifetime is the reason of my giving her only that sum. Item. I Give and Devise to my son John two thirds of my moiety of the Rope walks improved by myself in Company with Benjamin Austin Esq'' together with two thirds of all my Right Title and Interest to the land under and about the same including the Tar House & the proper utensils of said Ropewalks and all the Appurtenances of the same to hold to him and his heirs forever also I Give to my said Son all the Right Title and Interest in my two negro men Hamilton and Tom Also my other negro man London and my Will further is that my said son Have and Receive a quarter part BOX FAMILY, _ I . ) of the Moyety of the neat balance that shall be found due to niystdf and mv co-partner Benjamin Austin Es(]' upon the settlement of our Company's Books & Receipts of such I'alance. Item. I Give and Bequeath to my daughter Lydia Wife of M' Willijun Hoskins of Boston aforesaid, Merchant, one moiety or half part of all the Residue of my Real Estate wherever the same may be found not luM-ein before disposed of To Have and To Hold the same to Her and her heirs forever also the other half part of all the Residue of my ]'ersoiud Estate not herein before disposed of whether in action or })OSsession. Item. I Give to my Daughter Sarah Five shillings her conduct haveing merited my Displeasure is the reason for giving her that sum only. Item. I (Uve and Devise to my J)aughter JNtary the other 3l(jiety and half part of all the Residue of my Real Estate wherever the same may be found not herein before disposed of to Have and To Hold to her and her heirs forever also the other half part of all the Residue of my Personal Estate not herein before disposed of in action (n- possession and my ^Vill and Intent is that my said Daughter Lydia and my said Daughter Mary have equal shares and proportions of my Real and Personal Estate. Item. I Give to my Good Friend and Co-])artner Benj'* Austin Es ^ Suffolk ss Massachusetts Bay \ To Mess''^ EzEKiEL Lewis, Sam'- Downe & Jacob Cooper all of Boston. in the county aforesaid Greeting : You are hereby appointed and impowered to take an inventory of and according to your best skill and juclgement truly and justly to apprize in Lawful money of this Province all the Estate whereof John Box late of sd Boston, Ropemaker, died seized in the aforesaid county and you are to make return of the W^ arrant with your doings thereon unto the Probate Office in the same county as soon as conveniently ma}^ be. Given under my Hand the 4''' Day of November, A.D. 1774. J. Hutchinson, Ju Prob. 1775 ) Jan>' 13 I" Inventory of the Estate of Mr. John Box, Late of Boston, Rope- maker, Deceased, as appointed by us . the Subscribers. (We have omitted the valuation, as unimportant in detail. — Eds.) In the Front Room. 1 Large Black Walnut Table 1 small " " 1 Round Mahogany 1 square Tea 20 cups, 20 saucers. 2 bowls. 2 teapots 1 Looking Glass. 6 walnut chairs 6 leather bottom chairs 1 pr. An j irons 1 brush 10 pictures, maps. 10 painted pictures 3 Mahog"y Waiters 10 Wine Glasses 3 Delph Dishes 11 plates, china Bowl 1 pi" Decanters. 2 Beakers. 2 Wash basons 1 p'' Butter Boats In Closet. 1 Prospective Glass. 1 Dutch Saw 1 hand saw 1 Lantho]-n 1 Pruning Knife. In Closet & Escratore. 3 vols Tillotson's Works £1 :00: :0 1 " Nicholson's " ;0 6 " Sharp's Sermons 12: ;0 3 " Cardinal Wolsey 6: :0 4 Table Cloths 10 p'' Sheets 19 pillow cases 6 napkins. 6 coffee cups. 2 Tea Chests 1 coffee mill Middle Room. 1 Large Maple Table 1 Looking Glass crackt 6 old Leather Chairs 1 Table, broke. BOX FAMILY. 217 6 Straw bottom'^ chairs 1 old Desk* 1 Bible Audjirons and Tongs. Kitchen. 8 Pewter Dishes 13 Plates, 6 Basons & Porringers. 1 Brass Pot 3 Brass Kittles. 1 D« Skillet. 1 Dripping Pan 3 Iron Pots. 2 Sauce Pans 1 Dish Kittle. 1 Cleaver 1 P^' Cast Andj irons 1 P'' Andjirons wrot iron Shovell & Tono-s copper tea kettle gridiron and Toaster 2 Tramells 1 Scimmer 1 Fender. 6 Brass Candlesticks 1 Jack, 1 Spit. 1 Table 1 pr Bellows Horse and Folding Board. 1 " X cut " Saw. In Front Chavihef. 1 old Table 3 straw chairs In Entry Chamber. 3 old Chairs 3 p'- Flat Irons In Middle Chamber. 1 small glass 1 case draws. In Chamber. 1 Looking Glass k Table 1 case Draws Easy chair & cushion. 8 Straw Chairs Tongs & Andjirons. Bellows. jute curtains & rods. 1 Bed Stead, feather bed bolsters, pillows, blankets 1 quilt 2 Blankets. Silver viz'- 1 Punch Shaiver 1 Porringer 1 Tankard 1 p' castors 1 Cann, 1 p'' Salts 6 large Spoons & G Tea Spoons Tea Tongs 1 Tobacco Box. 88^ oz. 2 pr. candlesticks. 2 doz. hard metal plates 1 doz Ivory handle knives & fork.s 1 p'' Snuffers 1 double Pewter Tea Kittle 2 hatts 2 Avigs 2 handkerchiefs 1) shirts Tin Ware — Brass Scales 1 warming pan 1 p"" white hose 1 counter i)ain 4 flannel waist coats Clasps. Apparel. 4 close body'' coats 2 Jackets 2 p'' Breeches 1 Ked Surtout (" Scarlet Roquelot") 1 chest Fustian coat, waistcot c\: iJreeches. 8 ruffled Shirts 7 p'" Hose 1 Lambs Skin Surtout 1 Green ]>anyan 1 Gold Watcli. 3 Neagro's Cribs & Beding. 1 Negro Girl nam'' Dinah 1 Chaise Horse. 1 Chaise. A Pew in Kings Chaple 1 Small Eope walk 1 House & Land formerly Mr. Mes- singer's 4- house & land in Cambridge Street, (the other half is Mrs. Box's maiden estate) 1 Xegro boy nam*' London 1 <•' " <' Pompey * The term " old " applied to furniture implied that it was brought from tlie mother country. 218 PART II. In Company (with Mr. Austin) Negro fellow Tom " " Hamilton A rope walk & land Utensils thereon £300 Tar House & Land Mansion House improv*^ by Mr. Box £300 A smaller house & Land adjoining A Brick Store and ^ store. A Parm in Nova Scotia and Some Stock. Note. The Nova Scotia property cannot be identified, altlioiigli researches liave been made at Halifax, X. S., and in the Province of New Brunswicli. [Advertised ix the Independent Chronicle, Aug. 19, 1779.] To Be Sold. <' That pleasant and Agreeable Situated Mansion House formerly occu- pied by M'" John Box, deed, laying on George Street (now Hancock) West Boston Northward of Beacon Hill with the gardens 91 feet deep and 71 feejb wide also the following buildings &c. viz. One small tenement near said Mansion House one large Brick store with a good cellar and a lot of land to the same 45 feet fronting on George Street and 91 feet deep. Seven house lots of land fronting on the same line each measuring 40 by 91 feet. For terms apply to Benj-^ Austix Esq." There was a small cabin in the rear which was occupied by the negro slaves, Tom, Hamilton and London. The site of the Box estate is now occupied by the State House. Extracts from Deeds ix Suffolk Registry. '' I, Lydia Box of Boston, widow of John Box, Ropemaker, in consider- ation of 10* money by me received of Jon^ Loring Austin and Benj. Austin, Jr., both mei'chants of Boston and for other valuable considerations do hereby grant, release and quit claim unto said *' men" all my estate, right, title and interest of and in that parcel of land situated and being at the westerly part of Boston together with the dwelling houses and all other buildings thereon, it being bounded and measuring as follows Westerl}'^ on George Street 464 ft. 6 in. northerly on land of the heirs of John Spooner 91 ft. easterly on a passageway 371 ft. northerly again partly on said passageway and partly on land of Jos'^ Ridgway 42 ft. easterly again on land of Thos. Hudson .55 ft. southerly on Beacon Hill 115 ft. 9 in. easterly again on Beacon Hill 24 ft. 8 in. and southerly on land of the heirs of Capt. John Henderson as also all my right &c in the piece of land of 24 ft. front- ing on George Street and measuring 270 ft. which my late husband John Box and Benj. Austin purchased of Benj. Harrod and formerly improved as a Rope- walk. Also another piece of land 120 ft. long and 89 ft. wide which my said husband and said Austin formerly improved for a yard and tar house. All of which pieces of land are particularly described in a Deed this day executed by the said Austin and m}^ children John Box, Lydia and William Hoskins, and my daughter Mary Box to the said Jona. Loring Austin and Benj. A. Jr. Before me Belcher Noyes, J. P. Oct. 16, 1783." BOX FAMILY. 219 The deed referred to gives boundaries of rope-walk as follows: ''Easterly on George (Hancock) Street, 2-1 ft. : southerly on land cf tlic heirs of John Box and is a part of the 44 ft. purchased by the late company of the heirs of Elisha Cook viz. Benj. Ilarrod and his wife, measuring 270 ft.; westerly on land of Jeremiah Wheelwright 24 ft. and northerly on (lanlcn Street measuring thence in a straight line to George Street 270 ft. also another parcel of land at said westerly part of Boston bounded as follows: northerly on May Street, so called, 120 ft. 2 in. westerly on a lot of land of the heirs of Jeremiah Allen Esq. 89 ft. southerly on a piece of laiul formerly leased of Jeremiah AVheelwright and improved for a ropewalk by the late Co. of Box & Austin there measuring 120 ft., easterly fronting (iarden Street and running northerly to May Street 88 ft. 2 in." Mrs. Box returned to the Story Homestead after the sale of the I'.eafon Hill residence. Her husband being dead, she gave up her large pew in the gallery and bought pew No. 18, down stairs, which is at the right hand aisle as one enters King's Chapel. Sundry of her descendants have found pleasure in attending service at the Chapel (which is now Unitarian) and occupying Lydia's pew. The interior of the Chapel is very quaint and suggestive of the past. The records give : " Prior to the Evacuation of Boston by the British persons occupied the following pews who did not depart ,— In the South Aisle, No. 17, John Box Jr. — No. 18. Mrs. Lydia widow of Major Box." There were no services during the war, and the Box family then attended Trinity Church. Tradition says that our ancestress was strongly British in her sympa- thies, but on account of the high esteem enjoyed by her late husband, John Box, she was not molested. For some years she was unable to attend church on account of the infirmity incident to age. She objected strongly to the change in the liturgy of King's Chapel, with the natural conservatism of age. Her daughter Mary remained single and cared for her mother, who died Mar. 9th, 1788, aged 70 years, and was buried from Trinity Church, Mar. 12th. Extract from Will of Lvdia Box. [See Suffolk Probate, Book 87.] '' Item. I give and Bequeath unto my Daughter Mary Box as she has been with me since m}' Husband's Decease and taken Great Care of me, all the Residue and Remainder of my Estate both Real and Personal with my Plate and gold watch and seal, likewise the front end of my House in Cambridge Street and my pew in y*" Kings Chappie Church to be holden by her, her Heirs and Assigns forever, and I do hereby nominate and appoint my said Daughter to be Sole Executrix of this my Last Will and Testament 220 PART ir. hereby Revoking making null and void all former and other Wills by me Heretofore made Declaring this and no Other to be my Last Will and Testament. " In Witness whereof I hereunto set my Hand and Seal the twenty third day of February Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred and eighty four. signed & sealed. Lydia Box. " Published and Declared by the said Lydia Box in presence of us : Nath'- Hexchmax, sworn. jMargaret Hexchmax, absent. Pexelope Pelham, sworn." This Will was presented for Probate, Mar. 25, 1788. Appraisers appointed, Jacob Cooper, Charles Williams and Job Prince. The Inventory amounted to £134 : 16 : 1, and includes : "13 pictures 4 old portraits 1 crow colored paduasoy gown 3 gold rings 1 mantua silk gow^n gold Sleeve Buttons 3 silk frowns Black Silk Gloves Black sattin cloak Gold and silver glasses Silver Shoe Buckles Bible & Prayer-book and other books Half a house on Cambridge Street" The Box Bible is in Stougliton. (See John Bronsdon's Pamily.) An old-fashioned pin set with pearls and marked L. S. (Lydia Story) has been preserved by one of Lydia Box's descendants. Mrs. Waitt has a chair of Lydia's. Jacob Cooper, one of the Appraisers, was a cousin to Mrs. Box. (B 3) Elizabeth Box^ (John^). m. Capt. Bant Bkoxsdox, Sen. Elizabeth Box was the oldest child of John and Lydia (Story) Box,. and was b. about 1733-4 (?) ; m. 1750. Elizabeth's marriage to Bant Broxsdox — see No. (196) in .Bronsdon Genealogy, Part First of this volume — • is proved by the Will of her father, John Box, even did not positive knowl- edge of it exist in the Bronsdon family. Their first child's birth gives approximately the date of their marriage. These records were preserved in the Bronsdon family, but were lost about fifty years ago. Capt. Bant Bronsdon, the husband of Elizabeth Box, died while absent on a voyage, according to the family tradition, before 1774 (about 1765), and Elizabeth died before 1790. She resided near her father in a house belonging to the Box estate on Beacon Hill. Her name appears with her husband in Suffolk Deeds, book 88, leaf 19-20. BOX FAMILY. JJl Their Children were : (B 11) i. John Box^ Bronsdov, b. in Boston, May 21, ITftl ; l)ai)t. as "John Bnuisden" at King's Chapel, Sept. S, IT.")]; ni. Aug. 9, 1774, JNLiss Abigail Baker of Stoughton, Mas.s., and .settled in Milton, Mass., where he d. Feb. 2'2, loston, July 12, 1825. (B 31) V. Li/dia^ Hoskins, bapt. King's Chapel, Nov. 20, 1771 ; d. in ' Boston, 1790. (B 32) vi. Hannah^ Hoskins, h. 1772 ; d. (B 33) vii. Henry^ Hoskins, bapt. King's Chapel, Jan. 8, 1773; bur. Jan. 29, 1774. (B 34) viii. Snsanna^ Hoskins, bapt. King's Chapel, Nov. 25, 1774. (B 35) ix. Henry^ Hoskins, b. 1776 ; d. Wiscasset, Maine, Feb., 1804. (B 36) X. Charlotte^ Hoskins, b. 1777. (B 37) xi. Sicsanna^ Hoskins, bapt. King's Chapel, Jan. 8, 1778 ; d. in Dedham, Mass., Dec. 18, 1863. (B 38) xii. Charles Chauncetf Hoskins, bapt. First Church, Nov. 7, 1779 ; d. in Newport, R.I., June 13, 1813. (B 39) xiii. zV«?ic?/^7/os7cms, bapt. First Church, June 23, 1782 ; d. in Boston, Sept. 20, 1785. (B 40) xiv. Thomas Bulfinch^ Hoskins, bapt. Second Church, Aug. 7, 1785 ; bur. in Boston, May 1, 1791. Biography. (B 7) Lydia Box, sixth chikl and third daughter of John and Lydia (Story) Box, was born in Boston in 1745. There are no records from which to glean knowledge of her youthful days before her marriage, but doubtless she received the usual education given to daughters of wealthy parents. BOX FAMILY. •!•> __•) Perchance she attended one of the I'iishionable boardiii<,' sdiools, or mav have received at home her instruction in the "arts and j,'racc's " r(.'ox, Jr.) has abundance of leisure lie writes you often. Addressed to ]\[rs. Lydia Box at Boston Near Rev*^ Dr. Howard's Meeting House. 232 PART II. Hartford, Fehy 11"' 1777. My Dear Lydia. I presume yesterday was your day of Tryal. I Could wish from the sincerity of my Soul I was with you But private Interest, Affection & Concern may give way to Public duty's, let them be ever so sacred. I wrote you of the 9*'' this month under Cover of a letter to Messrs Williams & Bell and near of this time Expect you have the perusal or Read to you. I desired them Gentlemen to furnish the family with some London porter & Malaga Wine, But whatever you may occasion send them a line to furnish you. I desired they would procure you a Large pease Ladle & one dozen of Table Spoons & hope j'ou will be furnished from them of those family Necessary s. Col". Trumbull sets out for Boston about this day from Lebanon. I shall write that Gentleman Soon, if you are so ill as not to attend a visit I pray your directions to Mrs. Wallis that She Entertains him Consistent with his Caracter. you w^ll put master Bill to his pen & paper and Dictate a letter to me at least once a Week. I am Very Affectionately Your Tender Husband. W" Hoskins. Angt 1st 1777 My Dear Lydia. This morning p Post I was favored with your refreshing letter. . . . As to my Coming Home I have drawn up a plan which I believe will answer (if affected) you may see me rather sooner that at present you Expect. You know I am pretty Flustery and my Love to you is so Rivited that Barrs & hardly the barriers of the Grave would keep me from you long. ... I send you Cloth for the Boys Coats by the Next Con- veyance. Remember my Love to Mrs Wallace acquaint her it was not for want of pure affection I did not take a Cordial leave of her. When I beheld yoii filled with the greatest anxiety at our departure, it was Enough to fill any heart that regards a Tender Wife, but I dare not think more. Keep yourself pure. Let your Love and Virtue manifest a proof of the marraidge Covenant Shortly we shall Embrace & by the blessings of Heaven never more to part untill the King of Terrors shall make the Breach. Consolate yourself with the Offsprings God has graciously given you, with an adition at suitable times to Heaven, which will be time well spent & procure the direction of our Great Master thro this transitory state. My Love awaits the Children. Let me hear from you Every Post as it is all the Comfort I can at present ex])ect or Enjoy from you (Hard Eate). I am with every expression of Tenderness and Love Your Affectionate Husband W" HOSKINS. p. S. Johny will leave my chaise, but I would have him keep at our house until he hears from me. You Avill take a turn round the Square with him and Harry as long as he stays, dont take the evening air. Addressed Mrs. Lydia Hoskins Boston. Care of Mr. BeU. BOX FAMILY. 033 HAKTKnlM) Ainit L' I 1777 Ml/ Most Bear Lijdla. Your letters this day I received ackii()wledj,'in<,' mine to you tlie last post. I am liai)py in lioaring you are well as also tlie faniilv. J have sent you 1250 Dollors (Inclosed) pr the I'ost as to tlie Pork cS: Flour you shall soon have it. Silvia's Conduct will induce me to take measures tliat Avill render her servitude more lasting than I intended, not in my family. I shall return in about Sixteen Days. :\ry preparitions for you upon another visit to this Jewell place and all other things must he Referred untill the Blessed day of your Company \ am mv Dear witli undisguised Truth Your Tender & Affectionate HusV)aiul \V^' 1 Ins KINS. p. S. Twelve Hundred Dollars on Interest aud Fifty Square Dollars for your further Support. Addressed To Mrs Lydia Hoskins, Boston, P Post. The slave Sylvia mentioned in this letter lived in the Hoskins, Box and Bronsdon families until her death; thus the threat to dispose of her was never carried out. She married another slave, Jerry Derrie. In 1814 she received her freedom. She died in Milton, where she and her husband were caretakers upon the Curtis mansion. They had a daughter, Sylvie, wlio lived Avith John Box, Jr., and after his death went as the maid of his widow to the Curtis home. She lived with different members of the family until her death in Milton, at the age of forty-four. PjiiLADELriUA lU"' March. 177'.». My Dear Lydia. I am Richly happy in Receiving your Dear Letter from the office this day under the 21"'' February. I almost dispaird hereing from you. You hope I dont make my Tarry to ]\Iay. be assured it is far from a pleasure to be absent so Long but I find it necessary to attend and accom- plish the business I Came here Upon. Congress yesterday ai)i)ointed a Committee to Act & Determine Upon my affairs. I suppose their Report will soon be made, that I must Settle and Close all accounts on our Line, therefore it will be necessary to Attend the Settlement in tliis State before I proceed to the Eastward. I have purchased a Silver Chain for your Sizers & another for a pin Cushing which I shall send you by the first good oppor- tunity. As it is out of my power at present to send \o\\ a load of flour Let Billy call on Mr. Thomas to purchase and send what you may want for our Family Use. I have been very low in Spirits Since I left you but receiving your Letter I can pronounce myself now perfectly well. I had the honour to be cS: dine with our Massach'* Delegates from whom I received and was Entertained becoming their Great Caraeters with kindness. I shall imjjrove the next opportunity & write you more clear and explicit about my affairs. Our sons Johny and Billy's Letters I have Received & shall answer them at 234 PART II. Leisure. My love to them, a Token or Conformation of Wliich shall be signified soon if I can find an article in this City suitable to their Taste. I am Very Tenderly Your Affectionate Husband, W" HOSKINS. You must excuse the incorrectnes of this as I am in a hurry, l)ad pen and Droutrht of Ink. Addressed To Mrs Lydia Hoskins, Near Concert Hall, Boston. pr Express. Philadelphia, Marcli 15, 1779. My Dear Wife. I wrote you a few days since acknowledging j'our favours, since which I have made no further j^rogress in favour of my affairs which now lay before Congress, tho' I hope in my next to be able to inform you, as also, when 'tis likely I may leave this very disagreable City for my ISJ^ative home & dear family. It is truly surprising that every necessary of life cannot be obtained for rather more than as much again in this place as they are sold at Boston, the piper currency is daily depreciating and I fear, if the War Continues one Year longer Avhether it will purchase anything, unless Authority adopts methods to retrieve it Credit. We have a flying report the Enemy are about leaving New York, but as Reports are so Common I can hardly Credit anything. I shall write you by all opportuni- ties. My love to the family. Believe me to be your Constant and Faithful! Husband W" Hoskins. Addressed To Mrs Lydia Hoskins near Concert Hall, Boston, pr Express. Philadelphia April 13, 1779. Mtj Dear Lydia. I wrote you two letters the last week & tlien desired you would not write me again as I expect to Sett off for Boston at least in Ten Days. I had the pleasure of your favours last Evening by Post, also one from Son Jack and your brother Johnny. I am making application for his Wages for public service and will do what is in my power to get it. The Reason of my long stay here is owing to matters of much more importance before Congress than my affairs. My love to the family and all friends, with Duty to Mother. I am Your Very Tender and Affectionate Husband W" Hoskins. Addressed To Mrs Lydia Hoskins, Kear Concert Hall, Boston, pr Express. New York, April 2"^ 1785. 31 ij Dear. This acknowledges your letter by post Importing your health & our family. I Confess it gave me much pleasure. I am now making some advances towards settlement of my affairs but the Connections of them will lead me to Philad** the next week from whence you will hear from me. BOX FAMILY. ^^f) I would not have you write me again, as 1 may gu bcvoiul I'liiP' and tlicy miss me, though I am yet Undetermined. I ^have Jmdosed to Jack two small gold rings, a Watch for him delivered Mr. !'\iycrscrvice Care also some of my old linnen as by list below, which 1 have no manner occa.sion for & may serve the Boys. I shall again write I'nder Cover to His Excel- lency (Gov. Hancock). If T should meet with anything deserving your Acceptance when at Phil" I shall purchase it. This City is made up of a miserable set of parsimonious Wretches which I am sick of as well as tlie place itself. My Love to all our Connections. 1 am my Hear Wife Your Tender Husband \V" Hoskins. Addressed To Mrs Lydia Hoskfns, Boston. To be left at Mr. Sever's Store near the State House. New Yokk, 26^" J/.r// ITSr,. Ill/ Dear Wife. Your Letter of the 30'" of March I took from the post office yesterday and am glad to hear from you and that the Children are well. I long to see you and hope to leave this City for that purpose in about a fort- night. My affairs are not yet settled and believe I shall be obliged to leave them in Care of a friends haiul. I sent to the care of Mr. Welch (the miller) Ten Bottles of the Best Hyson Tea, from Fhilad'^ pr (-apt Hinkley, 7 pound and 3 half pound nice bottles. I also sent pr j\[r. Welch a wire machine which I suppose he has got. you will send for the Tea and use it. you speak of the want of money, you must remember, I desired when yon wanted you would send to His Excellency for Some on account of the Ballance due to me. I know you might have it for sending I dont Expect above one Opportunity more of writing before I leave this. In the meantime you Avill follow my Rule, Exercise I'atience and IJelieve me Your FaithfiiU and Very Affectionate Husband W" HOSKINS. Addressed To Mrs Lydia Hoskins, Boston. This is the last of the thirty-nine letters of William Hoskins to liis family of which the compiler has any knowledge. Could their replies be found, how much of the family history comprised in them might be revealed to the descendants of these most deeply attached ancestors. (B 28) ^VILLIAM^ Hoskins, Ji;. (Lvoia-. JohnM. He was bapt. July 23, 176(5: (1. in Cuba, , 1824; m. 1796, of Bordeaux, France. Children : (B 41) i. John* Hosh'nis. (B 42) ii. Aurora'^ Hoskins. (B 43) iii. Caroline* Hoskins. (B 44) iv. Laura* Hoskins. 236 PART II. Biography. William Hoskins, Jr., was the eldest sou of William and Lydia Hoskins and was born in the house in Clark Square, Boston. He was educated at the best schools of the town, as in his father's letters to his mother mention is particularly made about " Master Bill's schooling." The father's watchful care extended over both wife and children. Very few of his letters but contain some allusion to " Billy and Johnnie " and plans for their welfare. It is inferred that, before his father's death, he was employed by him, immediately after he entered the counting-house of Mr. Connerais and soon became his partner, the firm being Connerais & Hoskins, Merchants, Long Wharf. In 1795 William Hoskins went to France, and presumably the partnership was dissolved, as another is formed that same year in Bordeaux, France, with a Mr. Grey, the firm being Grey & Hoskins. In 1796 his brother, Richard Quince Hoskins, writes to an uncle "that his brother William is married to a French Lady." At the close of the 18th or com- mencement of the 19th century he comes to Boston to arrange his mother's business affairs. When these are completed he again sails for France, but not before he had settled an annuity upon her, that he may feel sure she is properly cared for. If he visited her again before her death, it is doubtful. No record of his wife or family is known to be in existence in America, although they are said to have corresponded with their aunt, Mrs. Reuben Guild, and her descendants may be able to give the desired information. At one time he invested a small part of the remains of his father's property in the Ohio Land Company, formed by Rufus Putnam, and a town bearing the name of Hoskins vi lie is situated upon a part of that land. For whom the town is named is not known. In 1824 William Hoskins sailed from Bordeaux to Cuba to attend to the affairs of his plantations upon that island. Here he contracted a fever and died. Tradition says that his son John came to America and settled in New Orleans, La., but nothing is really known in regard to any member of his family. (B 39) John Box^ Hoskins (Lydia^, John^). He was bapt. Dec. 14, 1768; d. before 1824; m. second, Catherine Girard of Bordeaux, France, sister of Stephen Girard. First wife's name unknown. Cldldren (by first marriage) : (B 46) i. John Joseph^ Hoskins, b. Jan. 15, 1799 ; d. Newburyport, Mass., Jan. 23, 1876. (B 47) ii. Lydia'^ Hoskins, b. ; m. Antoine Titan. BOX FAMILY. 237 KlOGKAI'IIV. John Box Hoskiiis was born in tlu' house in Clark S(|iiaii-. ami u\o- sumably attended the same scliools as his brotlin- W'illiain. In I7.S(;. alter the death of his father, he was forced to seek enii)loynient at once. This was most generously offered liim by Mr. Joseiili I5arrell, one of liis fatlier's firm friends since the days of the Sons of Liberty and otlicr kindii'd as.so- ciations, to which both belonged. Not only did i\Ir. I'.arrdl take .John P.i.x Hoskins into his counting-honse, but he opened for him tiie doors of his stately home upon Pleasant Hill. This beaiitiful home, of whicli no longer even a trace remains, was situated where, until a few years ago, stood the numerous buildings of the McLean Asylum, in Somerville, INfass. I'robably few homes, at the close of the 18th century, were more magnificent than this. Its architect was Charles lUilfinch, and it was i)ronounced an ideal country-seat. The house stood upon a slight elevation, one side of which was washed by the waves ; terraces extended around the house, adown which flights of stone steps led to the beautiful lawns below ; fish ponds filled with gold and silver fish, dove-cotes, and greenhouses in which were to be found the rarest plants i)rocurable, were scattered around the grounds. In the rear of the house were the stables, coach-houses and poultry yards, while upon the shore stood the boat-house from which ]\Ir. Barrell, in pleasant weather, was rowed over to Boston in his elegant barge by his liveried boatmen. Long avenues leading to the house were bordered by elm and poplar trees, which survived the owner and his home, shading, ere they were ruthlessly cut down, many of the uiduxppy inhabitants of the Asylum that took the place of this hospitable home. For ten years John Box Hoskins remained in the counting-hou.se of Mr. Barrell, who, becoming one of the owners of the historic ship •' Columbia," gave, on the second voyage, the position of ship's clerk to young Hoskins, under the command of Capt. Gra}-. It was on this memorable voyage that the great river of the North- west was discovered, and to John Box Hoskins fell the honor of assisting Capt. Gray to plant our flag upon its shore and giving to the river the name of their ship, ''Columbia.'' This ceremony concluded, they proceeded to place coins under the roots of a giant pine, and, in the name of the United States of America, took possession of that part of our country now known as the States of Oregon and of Washington.* On his return from this memorable voyage, he entered into partnershij) with one of Mr. Barrell's sons under the name of Barrell *S: Hoskins, Mer- chants, Codman's Wharf, Boston. A few years later, Avhen liis brother William returned to France after his visit to his mother, he went witli him, taking also his two children, John Joseph (whose name combined his own *NoTE. For a full account of this memorable voyage, .see an article by the late Rev. Edward U, Porter in the New England Magazine of June, 1892. 238 PART II. and that of his generous benefactor) and Lydia. Of the mother of these two children, no,records have as yet (1901) been learned. Bordeaux seems to have been the home of both these brothers, though, from his letters, John Box must have occasionally visited Paris and other places. While in Bordeaux he marries, second, Catherine, daughter of Pierre Giravd and sister of the generous benefactor of the city of Philadelphia and founder of Girard College. In Girard's Will, written after the death of John Box Hoskins, he leaves an ''Annuity of four hundred dollars to his sister Catherine, Avidow of John Box Hoskins, who died in the Isle of Prance." This was where his daughter Lydia, who married Antoine Titan, had made her home. When John Box Hoskins died is not knowm, but his estate Avas administered upon in Boston, July 26, 1824. (B 46) John Joseph^ Hoskins (John Box^ Lydia^, John^). He was b. Jan. 15, 1799: d. Jan. 23, 1876; m. Nov. 7, 1822, Hannah Freeman Baker of Newburyport, b. Dec. 10, 1802, d. Dec. 7, 1879. Children : (B 48) i. Rannah^ Hoskins, b. Jan. 15, 1826. (B 49) ii. John Thomas^ Hoskins, b. Apr. 30, 1827. (B 50) iii. Joseph^ Hoskins, b. Nov. 3, 1829. (B 51) iv. Charles Williams^ Hoskins, b. June 23, 1831 ; d. Mar. 2, 1886. (B 52) V. Marij Elizabeth^ Hoskins, b. Nov. 28, 1833, (B 53) vi. Georgina^ Hoskins, b. Sept. 7, 1837. (B 54) vii. Sarah Frances^ Hoskins, b. Oct. 6, 1842. • (B 55) viii. Isaac Henrif Hoskins, b. Nov. 20, 1846 ; d. Feb. 22, 1854. (B 48) Hannah^ Hoskins (John Joseph*, John Box^, Lydia-, John^). She was b. Newburyport, Jan. 15, 1826; m. Nov. 4, 1847, Isaac Poor of Newburyport, b. Oct. 8, 1825, d. Apr. 5, 1899. Children : (B 56) i. Mart/ SpUler^ Poor, b. Feb. 6, 1849. (B 57) ii. Isaac^ Poor, b. Apr. 27, 1852. (B 56) Mary Spiller*' Poor (Hannah^, John Joseph*, John Box^ Lydia^, John^). She was b. Feb. 6, 1849; m. Apr. 10, 1867, Andrew Parker Lewis, b. Jan. 19, 1843. BOX FAMILY. 239 Children. : (B 58) i. JIari/ Parker'' Lewis, b. July 1, 1807. (B 59) ii. A7i7ia Poor'' Lewis, b. July 1 1. 1808. (B 60) iii. Georgiana Frances'' Lewis, b. June 14, 1872. (B 61) iv. Caroline Josephine'' Lewis, b. Sept. 20, 1876: in. .hiii.- 27. IDOO. Zeiinie Duroy Willis, b. Dec. 25, 1877. (B 62) V. Isaac Poor'' Lewis, b. Mar. 12, 1879. (B 63) vi. LueUa'' Lewis, b. Nov. 27, 1880. (B 64) vii. Arthur E? Lewis, b. Jan. 28, 1883. (B 65) viii. Edward E? Lewis, b. lAIar. 23, 1885. (B Q%) ix. WUIard Busscil' Leirls. b. Nov. 28, 1892. (B 57) Isaac® Pock (Hannah*, John Joseph*. John F>ox', Lydia-, John^). He was b. Apr. 27, 1852 ; m. Dec. 31, 1874, Maky Speaking Gilman, b. Nov. 26, 1854. Children : (B 66a) i. Sarah Moochf Poor, b. Mar. 20, 1876. (B 67) ii. Henry Gilman' Poor, b. June 5, 1886. (B 50) Joseph* Hoskins (John Joseph*, John Box', Lyuia-, John'). He was b. Nov. 3, 1829 ; m. Feb. 21, 1867, Augusta Marden, b. Mar. 3, 1847. Children :• (B 68) i. Charles H.^ Hoskins, b. Oct. 15, 1868 ; d. Feb. 18, 1869. (B 69) ii. Augusta^ Hoskins, b. Feb. 16, 1870; d. IMar. 1, 1870. (B 70) iii. Joseph'ine^ Hoskins, h. Oct. 1, 1871 ; d. Aug. 10, 1872. (B 71) iv. Elizabeth J.' Hoskins, b. May 1, 1874 ; d. Feb. 23, 1884. (B 53) Mary Elizabeth* Hoskins (John Joski'ii\ John liox*, Lydia-, John'). She was b. Nov. 28, 1833; m. Dec. 25, 1856, Benjauiiu F. Hamilton, b. Feb. 16, 1843, d. Mar. 10, 1873. Child : (B 72) i. Josephine^ Hamilton, b. Aug. 10, 1858; m. June 17, 1878, Free- man Hersey, b. Sept. 10, 1857. 240 PART ir. Children : (B 73) i. Frank'' Hersey, b. May 6, 1879. (B 74) ii. Gertrvde' Hersey, b. Aug. IG, 1882. (B 54) Sakah Frances^ Hoskixs (John Joseph.^, John Box^, Lydia^, John^). She was b. Oct. 6, 1842; m. Oct. 1, 18G2, Charles Hale Collins, b. Sept. 8, 1834, d. May 14, 1870. Child : (B 75) i. Charlotte Hale^ Collins, b. July 29, 1864 ; m. Jan. 17, 1880, Walter Ross I^radbury, b. Sept. 23, 1862, and had : (B 76) i. Edith Boss' Bradbury, b. July 22, 1880. (B 77) ii. Frank Hale' Bradbury, b. Apr. 30, 1883. (B 78) iii. Wilbert Stewarf Bradbury, b. Dec. 13, 1884 ; d. Sept. 3. 1886. (B 30) Richard Quince^ Hoskins (Lydia^, John Box^). He was son of (B 7) and b. Mar. 17, 1770 ; d. July 12, 1825 ; bur. Mt. Auburn ; m. Mar. 15, 1801, Jane Gakdnek Knight, b. Dec. 9, 1778 ; d. Feb. 28, 1853. Child : (B 79) i. Jane Gardner* Hoskins, b. May 2, 1802 ; d. Apr. 5, 1881 ; m. first. May 21, 1820, Hezekiah Hodges of Dedhani ; m. second, Aug. 30, 1860, Nathaniel Waterman of Boston, b. 1804, d. of phthisis, Feb. 3, 1866, bur. ]\lt. Auburn. (B 32) Hannah^ Hoskins (Lydia-, John Box^). She was b. , ; d. , ; m. first, James Melanen or McClellan ; m. second, William Bird, " cordwainer." Children (by first marriage) : (B 80) i. James* Melanen or McClellan (no further record). (By second marriage) : (B 81) ii. Ijydi(( Hoskins* Bird, b. Oct. 12, 1798; d. Aug. 17, 1869; m. Feb. 3, 1825, Joseph Redding. (B 82) iii. Elizabeth B. A} Bird, b. 1806 ; d. July 19, 1846 ; m. Oct. 30, 1827, Henry Taylor, b. Jan. 6, 1805, d. Dec. 13, 1880. Children : (B 83) i. Sarah Elizabeth^ Taylor, b. 1828 ; d. Aug. 13, 1855 ; m. Henry Feabody and had : (B 84) i. Charlotte^ Peabody, b. 1849; d. May 30, 1865. BOX FAMILY. Oj-] (B85) 11. /i ichardll.^ T(nj/or,h. IS.'.l- d. M-.ii: \ \s:x (B 86) 111. Da7ilel Colt' Tat/lor, b. Apr. 22, IS.'ili ; „,. M-.iy 11, 1856, Eliza Larrabee, b. Auj,'., 1838, anil had four children : (B 87) i. I/ni)-i/ Jr.« Ta>/Ior, h. "May 6, l8r,7; ni. May 8. 1881, Clara B. Blaisdell, b. Feb. ]*), 1S6L'. Their children are : (B 88) i. William J).' Tai/lor, b. lY-1). \}, J 882. (B 89) ii. Louis W.' Taijlor, b. Dec. 12, 1884. (B 90) ii. Lnnj 7?.« Taylor, b. June 24, 1859. (B 91) iii. Ida L} Taylor, b. Aug. 27, 186.5; m. 1S02, J. Harry Lomas, b. Sept. 28, 1849, and had ': (B 92) i. Clara E. SJ Lomas, b. Feb. 4, 1893. (B 93) iv. Daisij IV' Taylor, b. Aug. 2, 1869; d. Feb. 18, 1893 ; ra. Dec. 30, 1890, Frank Browning. (B 35) Henry^ Hoskixs (Lydia-, John Box^). He was son of (B 7) and b. , 1776; d. Feb., 1804; m. , 1798, Abigail Whittier, b. in Wiscasset, Me., 1778, d. Oct. 18, 1864. Children : (B 94) i. James Whittier^ Hoskins, b. Apr. 28, 1799; d. June 5, 1833. See below. (B 95) ii. Henry Box^ Hoskins, b. Dec. 22, 1801 ; d. Mar. 3, 1876. See below. (B 96) iii. A daughter. Biography of (B oij) Hexky Hoskixs. He was ten years old -when his father died. Three and a half years later his mother apprenticed him to the firm of Thomas & Andrews, I'rinters and Publishers, at 45 Newbury Street, Boston, until his majority in 1796, when he went to Wiscasset, Me., and formed a partnership with J. N. Russell (formerly of the firm of Jos. N. & John Russell, Printers, Quaker Lane, Boston) for the purpose of establishing a newspaper called The Wiscasset Telegraph, the first one printed in Maine. The word " telegrapli," now so common, was unknown until 1792, when INI. Chappe invented one that was used in France, and in 1796 two were in use in the Admiralty Office in London. Evidently these were two progressive young men I A perfect copy of this pa,per is in possession of the ^Massachusetts Historical Society in Boston. There are four pages, each 12 by 18 inches, of four columns each. The heading is in Roman letters ; underneath is a motto, 16 242 PART 11. " The Wilderness shall bud and blossom like the rose," followed by the announcement, "Printed and published by J. N. Russell and H. Hoskins, corner of Main and Fore Streets, Wiscasset. Ko. XV, Vol. I. Saturday March 11, 1797 [1 doll. 75 cts. per annum]." In the first column is the farewell address of the A'ice-President of the United States to the Senate, after his election to the Presidency ; the next contains Congressional news, followed by "A Communication from an Inhab- itant of Maine " in regard to the separation of Maine and Massachusetts. The second page contains the Report of the Massachusetts Legislature, Domestic News from Philadelphia, and the announcement that " The Empress of all the Russias the Great Catherine is dead." There is news from " The Havannah," also an account of the birthday celebration of George Washington, President of the United States. The paper was discontinued soon after the death of Mr. Hoskins (1804). In 17G6 Capt. Ebenezer Whittier, father of Mrs. Hoskins, removed with his family from Haverhill and purchased land in Pownalborough (a part of which is now Wiscasset). He built the famous old '• Whittier Tavern and Stage House," which stood until after 1830. It was burned and a second house erected upon its site called the " Hilton House " (for Col. Hilton, second husband of Abigail Hoskins), which is now standing, and its land- lord is a direct descendant of Capt. Whittier. Capt. Whittier was Town Clerk of Wiscasset for many years. In 1787 he represented his district at the General Court in Boston, and was Post- master of Wiscasset from 1790 until his death, in 1810. His wife, Eliza- beth Merrill, was b. at Amesbury, Mass. (B 94) James Whittier* Hoskins (Henry'', Lydia'^, John Box^). He was son of (B 35) and b. Apr. 28, 1799 ; d. June 5, 1833 ; m. Oct. 7, 1821, Eliza Adams, b. Dec. 12, 1805, d. Jan. 1, 1851, at Bangor, Me. Seven Children : (B 97) i. Trijphosa^ Hoskins, b. June 4, 1823 ; d. May 3, 1901, at Bangor, Me. ; m. Dec. 9, 1851, Jonas Parlin Wyman, b. Sept. 4, 1820. Child : (B 97a) i. James Hoskins^ Wyman, b. Feb. 1, 1853; d. young. (B 98) ii. Abigail Hilton^ Hoskhis, b. Jan. 6, 1825; d. at Bangor, Me., Oct. 5, 1868; m. June 12, 1855, Henry Noyes, b. Nov. 14, 1818, and had two children, b. in Bangor : BOX B'AMILY. 243 (B 99) i (1? 100) ii Fannie Tloskms^ Nni/es, h. Fcl). 1'.). ISaC. William, Henri/ Noyes, b. May (J, 18")7 ; in. Aug. 30, 1S83, Carrie White, wlio wa.s b. at Charlestown, Mass., St'|it, .". 1 SC.'J. Their cliililrcn : (B 101) i. Etta Gertrude'' Noi/es, h. .lime 9, ISSI. (B 102) ii. Henri/ Clifford'' Noi/es, b. Sept. II, 1 ssr» ; d. Apr., 1889. (B 103) iii. Ida MaheV Noijes, b. Sept. 22, 1 S88. (B 104) iii. Eliza^ Hosk'ms, b. Sept. 7, 182(5; iii. .Inly 27, IS,".!;, Tiinotliy Cole of Winterport, b. Mar. 14, 1825, d. May 7, 1883. Their children : (B 105) i. George Hoskins^ Cole, b. Mar. 12, 18(10 ; d. Dec 12, 18(52. (B lOG) ii. Alice M^ Cole, b. Aug. 29, 18G2 ; d. at Bangor, Me., July 13, 1887 ; in. June 28, 1886, Clin- ^ ton H. Spencer. (B 107) iv. Manj Green Jea-ett^ Hoskins, b. Alar. 29, 1828, at Wisea.s.set, ]\fe. ; m. Dec. 31, 1848, Edwin Colburn of Bangor, Me., b. Aug. 20, 1823. Their children : (B 108) i. Eliza Ella^ Colburn, b. Nov. 1, 1850; m. \\n-. 9, 1873, Gilman Charles Crane of Bangor, Me., b. Oct. 2, 1835, d. Apr. 19. 1889. They had two children : (B 109) i. AUre Man/' Crane, b. Xov. 18, 1874. (B 110) ii. Helen Frances'' Crane, b. Jan. G, 187G ; in. Nov. 1, 1900, Charles Howard Nason, b. Aug. 11. 1875, in Bangor, Me. (B 111) ii- Edirin Jaines^ Colburn, b. ^fay 15, 1855, at Bangor, Me. ; m. Jan. 3, 188;>, Gertrude L. Eidley of Glenburn, Me., b. May 10, 1858. They have had seven children : (B 112) i. Bessie C? Colburn, b. Oct. 21, 1883. (B 113) ii. Walter 0? Colburn, b. Feb. 22, 188G. (B 114) iii. Marie L? Colburn, b. Aug. 2, 1888. (B 115) iv. Harry E? Colburn, b. May 2G, 1892. (B 116) V. Vera G? Colburn, b. Sept. 18, 1893. (B 117) vi. Ralph FJ Colburn, b. IMay 18, 1895. (B 118) vii. Ruth E? Colburn, b. Mar. 2(), 1899. (B 119) V. James Henri/ Hoskins, son of (B 94), was b. Nov. 15, 1829. (B 120) vi. Susan^ Hoskins, dau. of (B 94), was b. Jan. 2, 1832; d. July, 1855. 244 PART II. (B 121) vii. Preserved Brayton Mills^ Hoskins, son of (B 94), was b. July 23, 1833, at Bangor. Me. ; m. May 20, 1861, Annie J. Wilson of Newcastle, Me., b. Dec. 2, 1839. Children : (B 122) i. Alice Ellza^ Hoskins, b. Aug. 22, 1862, at New- castle, Me. ; m. Nov. 5, 1884, Alplionso Perkins Alderman, b. Mar. 2, 1853, d. Mar. 14,1891. Their children : (B 123) i. Ethel Marlci' Alderman, b. Nov. 6, 1889, at Hartford, Ct. (B 124) ii. Brayton Alphonso"^ Alderman, b. Nov. 1, 1890. (B 125) ii. Bertha Ladd^ Hoskins, b. Mar. 29, 1865, at Providence, R. I. Is a physician and res. in Brookline, Mass. (B 126) iii. Helen Foster^ Hoskins, b. Oct. 3, 1867, at Providence, R. I. ; m. Sept. 19, 1897, Louis Winthrop Thompson of Avon, Ct., b. June 20, 1862. Res. at Hartford, Ct. Child : (B 127) i. Dorothy Claire'' Thompson, b. Aug. 20, 1900. (B 128) iv. Eryiest James^ Hoskins, b. July 30, 1870, at Hartford, Ct. ; m. June 17, 1896, Prances May Thompson of Avon, Ct., b. May 28, 1873, and has Herbert Wilson'' Hoskins, b. May 3, 1897, and Wm. Alvah^ Hoskins, b. Mar. 28, 1899. Biography of (B 94) Rev. James Whittier* Hoskins. Rev. James W.* Hoskins, the record of whose descendants precedes this sketch, was the eldest son of (B 35) Henry and Abigail (Whittier) Hoskins, and was born in the old Whittier Tavern, Wiscasset, Me. His father died when James was five years old ; but little is knoAvn of his early youth. Although bred a Congregationalist, he adopted early the Universalist faith, and at 22 years of age w^as preaching that doctrine. He was a " fellowship minister" until he was ordained on Oct. 6, 1830. He was elected Standing Clerk of the Maine Universalist Convention at its organization, in 1828, which office he retained for many years. Rev. Wm. A. Drew", editor of the Gospel Banner, in 1855, thus writes of him : " Mr. Hoskins was a close student, and one of the best Universalist ministers Maine ever had. He Avas the best judge of character we ever knew. His eye was sharp like that of an eagle, and he could almost dis- sect the soul of any man he saw, and decide upon his worthiness. Duty BOX FAMILY. 246 was his supreme law, ami in its discharge he would saoriHce t-verytiiiiiK earthly. He died of pneumonia after a three days' illness, wliile pastor of the Universalist Society at Uangor, in 1833, at the age r)f :\l years, living and dying a full believer in universal salvation." (B 95) Henry Wox^ Hoskins (Henhy», Lyi.ia-. ,I(.iiv i'.ox'). He was son of (B 35), and was b. Dec. 21', ISOl ; d. .Mar. 3, 1876; m. Oct. 26, 1826, Mary Green Jewett of Hallowell, Me., b. May 21, 1808, d. in Boston, Apr. 21, 1892. Three children : (B 129) i. Thomas Henri/ Uoskins, b. May 14, 1828, at Gardiner, Me.; m. first, 184;"), Mary Reed; m. second, ]\ray 14, 1863, Mrs. Caroline Amelia Strong of Keyport, X. J., b. Jan. 3, 1840, d., in Boston. Mar. 12, 1864; m. third, Nov. 12, 1864, Mel- anie Agatha Strong of Georgia, Vt., b. Oct. 24, 1839. His biography follows that of his father. See below. Five Children : (B 130) i. MaheJ Catherine^ llos]dns,h. Oct. 12, 1865; m. June 16, 1890, in Dorchester, Rev. Junius Bascom Spiers, b. Dec, 1862, at Ream's Station, Va. They have had five children, four of whom are living: (B131) i. Alice Frances^ Spiers, b. Apr. 27, 1891, at Savannah, Ga. (B 132) ii. John Worcester' Spiers, b. Aug. 9, 1892, at Derby, Vt. (B133) iii. Dorothy Jewett"^ Spiers, b. Nov. 1, 1893, at Portland, Me. ; d. :\lay 13, 1895. (B 134) iv. Hiomns Junixis' Spiers, b. I\Iar. 12, 1896, at Derby, Vt. (B 135) V. Fleanor Mabel'' Spiers, b. Aug. 2, 1897, at Derby, Vt. (B 136) ii. Charles Hennf Hoskins, b. Oct. 17, 1866, at Newport, Vt. (B 137) iii. Williavi^ Hoskins, b. Jan. 15, 1869, at New- port, Vt. (B 138) iv. Mar>/ Hoskins, b. Oct. 10, 1870, at New- port, Vt. (B 139) V. Alice^ Hoskins, b. Aug. 28, 1878, at New- port, Vt. (B 140) ii. Catherine Frances^ Hoskins, second child of (B 95), was b. Sept. 14, 1832, at Windsor, Me. ; d. Oct. 31, 1865, at Bos- ton ; bur. at Mt. Auburn ; m. at Gardiner, Me., Dec. 1, 1852, Charles Carroll Evans of Bo.ston, b. Sept. 17, 1831, in Portland, Me., d. in Chicago, 111., Sept. 20, 1889. 246 PART II. Five Children, all b. in Boston : (B 141) i. Mary Iloskins^ Evans, h. July 12, 1855; m. June 6, 1876, at Gardiner, Me., David Henry Darling of Wakefield, Mass., b. May 13, 1845, at jSTorth Adams, lies, at Rye, N.Y. Their children are six in number, all b. at Wakefield : (B 142) i. Eoherf DarNnrj, b. July 1, 1877. (B 14,')) ii. Kdtherine Evans' Darling, b. Sept. 15, 1878. (B 144; iii. Eleanor Louise'' Darling, b. Feb. 4, 1880. (B 145) iv. Louis'' Darling, b. July 26, 1883. (B 146) V. Mnrgaref Darling, b. Sept. 26, 1886. (B 147) vi. Gladys'' Darling, b. Feb. 13, 1891. (B 148) ii. William CarroW Evans, b. July 11, 1858: m. July 11, 1883, Gertrude Chamberlain Emery of Montpelier, Vt., b. Dec. 20, 1857. They have two children. (B U9) i. Catherine Marrf Evans, b. July 23, 1887, in Chicago, 111. (B 150) ii. Doris Rebecca'' Evans, b. June 9, 1893, in St. Paul, Minn. (B 151) iii. Henry Hoskins^ Evans, b. Apr. 21, 1861 : d. Apr. 24. (B 152) iv. Charles Hoshins^ Eoans, b. July 22, 1863; m. Apr. 23, 1896, Lena Thomas of Kote, Japan, b. Apr. 12, 1870, in Australia. (B 153) iii. Eleanor Hyde^ Hoshins, third child of (B 95) was b. Dec. 22, 1842, at Gardiner, Me. ; m. first, Apr. 13, 1864, Irving Stearns Hunt of Boston, b. 1835; m. second. Mar. 17, 1885, William Gay Waitt, Esq., of Boston, b. Feb. 28, 1855, at Pittston, ]Me. BlOGBAPHT OF (B 95) HeNRY Box HOSKINS. Henry Box Hoskins, second son of (B 35), was born in the old Whittier Tavern, Dec. 22, 1801. He was three years old when his father died. Nothing definite is known of his early days, but it is supposed that he lived with his grandfather Whittier, at least until his mother married, and possibly afterward. He was given the education common to the boy of the time ; first the " Dame School," and later under Master Quimby, who was a famous school-master of that town for many years. He used sometimes to tell of carrying his mother's foot-stove to the cold meeting-house, and how cold he was himself sitting beside her. BOX FAMILY. 'J4' At the age of fifteen he began to support liimsclt', and at nineteen ho was a clerk in the office of Hon. Robert Hallowell (Janliner of (ianlincr, Me. Four years later he was appointed agent of his employer and given full charge of his estate, which embraced the greater part of (Jardiner. 'I'll is was a responsible position, and that he ably filled it is proved by his retain- ing it for fourteen years. During that time, besides attending to small details of the business, he superintended the building of a hotel large and imposing for those days — the Evans House, wliicli still stands. Across the beautiful Cobbosseecontee he built five stone dams ami upon its shorea erected a brick paper-mill, with several saw-mills. TiUst. but not the least of his labors, was the superintendence, under the architect's supervision, of the erection, in 1836, of a fine granite mansion house for his employer, whicli was named "Oaklands," and to-day is one of the finest specimens of Eliza- bethan architecture in the United States. In his tireless energy he spared neither himself nor his workmen. Thoroughness was his lifelong motto. In 1838 he entered into a partnership with a son-in-law of jNIr. Gardiner, Mr. Francis Richards. They took the paper-mill built for Mr. Gardiner, and under the name of " Richards & Hoskins," built up a business that had no equal in the country for the honesty of its work and the high grade of its paper, not a sheet of which was allowed to pass from the machines to the packing rooms that had within or upon it a speck or flaw of any kind. !Mr. Hoskins continued in this mill after the death of his partner, taking first one and then another of Mr. Richards' sons into partnership. In 1805 he retired from active business ; but preferring, as he said, "to wear out rather than rust out," he accepted the Treasurership of the Gardiner Savings Insti- tution, which, under his judicious management, grew into the flourishing condition that demands and owns its own building, and enjoyed the con- fidence of the community at large. Mr. Hoskins retired from this position, on account of failing health, in 1875. He Avas honored by many positions of public trust, all of wliich he nobly filled. After Gardiner was incorporated as a city, he served in both branches of its Government, and also as the City Treasurer. In 1859 he was elected its Mayor, and repeatedly declined renomination. To his State he was ever loyal, and his voice was heard within the walls of the State House. Only his age and deafness prevented his joining the army during the Civil War. In a biographical notice of him were these words : " ^U. Hoskins was a thoroughly honest man and his character was above reproach. There is not a man in town but will regret his decease." What better epitaph could a man have from those with whom he had mingled for fifty years I He was debarred from many pleasures in his later years by an increas- ing deafness, in compensation for which he busied himself with his books. 248 PART II. He was a man of strong intellect and very decided opinions, a gentleman of the old school, devoted to his wife, family and home. He was interested in agriculture and horticultiire, and strove to have the best the earth produced. Some of his happiest hours were spent in his garden, the fruits of which he delighted to share with his friends. On his grounds he planted trees of rare varieties imported from Europe. From the Congregational faith of his mother, he returned, on leaving his home with her, to that of his father, grandfather and great-grandfather, who were all members of the Episcopal Church. In that faith he continued until 1836, when he, with his wife, adopted the doctrines of Swedenborg, in which he was a firm believer to the end of life and one of the leaders in the New Church, as he had been in everything he embraced. This was his nature ; he did not choose to lead^ but was forced to it by the strength that was in him, he being by nature retiring and unassuming. He was broad-minded, ever open to receive what was new. This made him one of the first in the State to introduce the practise of homeopathy. He was an indulgent father, and the welfare of his children was always his first concern. On Oct. 26, 1826, he was married to Mary Green Jewett of Hallowell^ Me., in Christ Church, Gardiner, by Et. Rev. George Griswold. Their home was marked by hospitality. A quotation from the historian of Christ Church, Gardiner, may not be out of place here. " The genial hospitality of Mr. Hoskins' home, with the kindly courtliness of Mrs. Hoskins, was long among the greatest charms of Gardiner's society." Mr. Hoskins died of paralysis, March 3, 1876, six months before the completion of fifty years of wedded life. His funeral was from his beloved home, and was attended by both branches of the City Government — all the noted men of the town, and many from adjoining towns. Among his sin- cerest mourners were the operatives of his old mills, many of whom had cause to remember that generous hand in time of trouble. The mills were shut down, both as a mark of respect to one who had made for them both name and fame, and to allow the attendance of the operatives. The Savings Institution passed the following resolutions : " Whereas : Lamenting the death of Hon. H. B. Hoskins, the former Treasurer of this Institution : " Resolved : That in the death of Mr. Hoskins this Institution has lost one who, being one of the founders of the Institution and having been inti- mately connected with it during its whole existence, having filled the offices of Trustee, President, and Treasurer, has proved himself one of its warmest and ablest friends and has discharged the duties of his several offices with great fidelity and to the entire satisfaction of the Institution. BOX FAMILY. -KW) '^ Resolved: That all our relations witli him proved his noUe, manly purposes, his thorough unswerving faitlifulness, his untlinchinL- intoLM-itv and his true friendship. '' "Resolved : That although he has entered into his rest, we derive ercat consolation from the fact that, in all his relations of life, it may with pro- priety be said, not only was his work done but tliat it was well-done; and that he has left a record of fidelity and honesty invahiable to tlioso wlio survive. '< Resolved : That all business of the Institut ion be suspended the day of the burial, that the several officers thereof may pav tlicir last respects to tlie deceased. "Resolved: That these Eesolutioiis be entered on tlie records of llie Institution and a copy be sent to the family of our late associate, witJi our heartfelt sympathy in their bereavement." This record cannot be closed without brief mention of the beloved wife. She was the daughter of Jesse and Rebecca (Jiamuiond Green) Jewett, and was born at Bowman's Point, then a part of the town of Hallowell, Me., and her entire life, with the exception of its last twelve years, when she resided in Boston, was spent in that town and in Gardiner, Me. Celebrated for her beauty in early life, she preserved much of it until her death. Though but of medium height, so queenly was her bearing that all named her tall, and at eighty-five she stood as erect as at eighteen. Under the tuition of such women as Lydia jNfaria Child and Miss Lucretia Bancroft, a sister of the famous historian, she develoi)ed a mind far in advance of the feminine intelligence of her time. Study was her deliglit, and long after middle life, she took up and perfected herself in the French language. She was an adept in the art of letter writing, and the year before her death, she sent over two hundred letters to her family and friends. Despite her intellectual tastes, she well fulfilled the words of Holy Writ, and "looked well to the affairs of her household." She was a generous benefactor to the poor of the town. With her husband, she was a sincere believer in the doctrines of Swedenborg. The following is an extract from a notice written by one of her young friends : "Our dear old friend went to sleep after she had spent a long course of nearly eighty-six years on this earth, and passed into tliat other world, towards which she had looked with calm faith and trust. Her old age w^as indeed a wonderful gift, and made a crown of a most inspiring life. It had the unusual characteristic of cheerfulness through many friend- ships. Although the friends of her youth had died, she had not turned lier face sadly to her past and refused to be comforted, but had held out her hands warmly to new friends, to the children and the grandchildren of her former mates, so that to the end she was surrounded by loving faces." 250 PART ir. Years ago, before women thought of going to college, and even before they thought it quite womanly to spend much time in study, she read and thought, striving to reach her own conclusions upon important questions of life. Her home in ]Maiue was long a social centre. Mrs. Hoskins died at the residence of her son-in-law William Gay Waitt, Esq., 15 Wheatland Avenue, Dorchester, Mass., April 21, 1892, and was buried beside her hus- band in Gardiner, Me. BioGKAPHY OF (B 129) Thomas H.^ Hoskins. Thomas Henry^ Hoskins, M.D., was born in Gardiner, Me., May 14, 1828, and was educated in the schools of that town until the age of 16, when he was sent to the private school of the late Joseph William Jenks, LL.D., of Dorchester, Mass. Here for a year he devoted his attention to the natural sciences. The following year he entered the counting-house of h.is father ; this he soon left for that of a wholesale druggist in Boston. In 1849 he removed to Louisville, Kentucky, where he entered the Medical Department of the Louisville University and graduated with high honors in 1860. A few years later he established himself in his profession in IJoston, his specialty being diseases of children. He was a member of the Massa- chusetts Medical Society, and also of the Boston Society of Medical Observa- tion. For several years he was one of the physicians of the Boston Dis- pensary, and in 1864 was appointed a Health Warden of the city. His tastes were literary and he soon took up journalism, being on the staff of the Boston Courier, also contributing to medical journals. In 1866 he had a severe fall upon the icy pavements of Boston, which obliged him to resign his practice. In the same year he removed to Newport. Yt., and engaged in agricultural and horticultural pursuits, his special work being the introduc- tion into Canada and northern New England of the famous iron-clad apple trees ; of these he had on his extensive farm in Derby, Yt., three hundred varieties, comprising more than fifteen hundred trees. Upon this work will his fame rest. He here continued his literary labors, editing and contribu- ting to various agricultural papers and magazines. He was Yice-President of the American Pomological Society and also of the American Horticultural Society of Yermont, and was often lecturer before these and other organiza- tions. Failing health obliged him to resign all and every department of his beloved work, a trouble of the brain forever obscuring his brilliant intellect. (B 37) Susanna^ Hoskins (Lydia^, John Box^). She was dau. of (B 7) Lydia (Box) and William Hoskins, was b. in 1778; bapt. Jan. 8, 1776; d. Dec. 13, 1863, in Dedham ; m. Dec. 30, 1804, Reuben Guild (widower) of Dedham, b. Aug. 18, 1762, d. Sept. 10, 1848. BOX FAMILY. 251 Child : (B 154) i. WlUhim Hoskins* GuiU, b. May G, 1805; »1. S.'i.t. L'o, 1,S7«J, in Boston; m. first, June 19, 1828, Sarah Glover of I'joston^ b. Oct. 2(), 1808, d. Oct. 9, 1859; ni. second, Sept. 18, ISCO, Susanna \l. Lucas, b. 18."n . Tie had niM- rliihl by each marriage (B 155) i. William. 11} GuiUI, Jr., h. Apr. I'C, IS.'JS ; d. Feb. 27, 1870; m. July 24, 18()0, F. Albertina Harrington, b. ISIO, and had: (B 156) i. William 11.^ Guild, 3d, b. .May 1. ISCl ; d. 1888 or 1889. (B 157) ii. Charles JIoski?is^ Guild, b. July 10. ISdl ; m. Sept., J 890, Ella Francis Mann, b. May 21, 1863, and have : (B 158) i. Henri/ Johnson^ Guild, b. An-. 21, 1891, in Boston. (B 159) ii. Charles Francis'' Guild, h. Nov. 22, 1895, in Bangor, Me. (B 38) Chakles Chauncey^ Hoskins (Lydia^, John Box'). He was son of (B 7) Lydia (Box) and William Hoskins, and b. in Bos- ton, Nov. 2, 1783 ; bapt. at the First Church, Nov. 7, 1783 ; d. at New- port, R. I., June 12, 1813 ; m. May 12, 1805, Sarah, dau. of John L. Boss of Newport, R. I., b. Feb. 17, 1787, d. June 5, 1874. Four children, whose records follow the biography of their father. Biography of (B 38) Charles C. Hoskins. Charles Chauncey Hoskins was the youngest surviving son of William and Lydia Box Hoskins, being but three years old at the death of his father. He was named for Boston's celebrated divine, who was also a warm friend of the family. After his father's death, William Hoskins took this baby brother under his especial care ; and after settling in his foreign home, he sent for him, and intended to share his home with him. The financial troubles of the dearly loved mother caused a return to America of her youngest son, who realizing the duty he owed to her, gave up all idea of returning to France. Shortly after his return, he married Sarah, daughter of John L. Boss of Newport, R. I., in which place he settled, and made a home for the mother, and was to her " the staff of her old age." Three years before his death, at the early age of thirty, the mother went to Ded- 252 PART II. ham, leaving her son all the family silver of her own and of her father's that she had retained during her many vicissitudes. This silver descended to his daughter Caroline, who died unmarried, she in turn leaving it to the daughter of her oldest brother, John Grey Hoskins, Mrs. Milo J. Weller of Fort IJragg, Cal., in whose possession it now is. The second son of Charles Chauncey Hoskins died unmarried at the age of 22. Like so many of the family, the sea was his home. On return- ing from a long voyage, his ship was wrecked within sight of home, and he was drowned. (B 161) John Grey^ Hoskins (Chas. C.^ Lydia'^, John Box^). He was the son of (B 38) Charles Chauncey Hoskins, and was b. Aug. 13, 1806 ; d. Nov. 22, 1848 ; m. Apr. 7, 1835, Mary M. Gorton of .Corning, 'KY., b. Jan. 7, 1820. Four children, whose records follow the biography of (B 161). Biography of (B 161) John Grey^ Hoskins. John Grey* Hoskins, eldest son of Charles Chauncey and Sarah (Boss) Hoskins, was born in Newport, R. I., Aug. 13, 1806, and died in Dexter, Mich., Nov. 22, 1848, of consumption. He was studiously inclined. He entered college and there prepared himself for the duties of a priest of the Episcopal Church, but just before his ordination he was seized with a hemorrhage of the lungs, which obliged him to relinquish his chosen pro- fession. From this time he made the West his home, never returning to Newport. He became a Professor of Languages and taught in schools and colleges. In 1835 he married Miss Mary M. Gorton of Corning, New York, who still survives him (1901), living with her daughter, Mrs. Milo J. Weller, of Fort Bragg, California. (B 162) i. Marif E.'' Hoskins, b. Feb. 21, 1836; d. July 3 6, 1855. (B 163) ii. Charles G.^ Hoskins, b. June 17, 1837 ; d. July 24, 1859. (B 164) iii. Caroline Sophia^ Hoskins, b. Aug. 9, 1840; d. Apr. 1, 1862. See below. (B 165) iv. Ilurtha Ann^ Hoskins, b. Aug. 26, 1846. See below. (B 164) Caroline Sophia^ Hoskins (John G.^ Chas. C^ Lydia^, John Box^). She was dau. of (B 161) ; m. Feb. 14, 1861, George Sherman Beach, b. Nov. 15, 1839, d. Apr. 27, 1886. BOX FAMILY. £58 Child : (B 165a) i. Caroline Sophia^ Beach, b. Mar. L'C, 1 S(iL' ; iii. Apr. 'JC, ISHL', Artliui- Phelps ralinoi-, b. Feb. 2, 18(50. Res. at Sayro,' I'enn! They have had six children : (B 166) i. liiith Ellxaheth' Palmvr, h. Apr. 'Z'2, ISS;!. (B 167) ii. Etlu'J Maif Faliuer, b. Sept. 6, iSSa: d. .lune 6, 1886. (B 168) iii. Leslie AJ Palmer, b. Mar. 16, 1887. (B 169) iv. Harold Stephen'' Palmer, b. Dec. 11, 18;t(). . (B 170) V. Floyd Beach'' Palmer, b. Dec. 24, ]81»;;. (B 171) vi. Lillian Caroline'' Palmer, b. Afay 19, 1896. ant referred to was son of Capt. Gilbert I'.ant. The Bants lived first at the "South End of Boston," which in those days meant near the " Church Green," or " Green Lot," at the junction of Summer Street and Blind Lane (easterly part of Ikdford Street). Capt. Gilbert Bant sailed between ]^oston and London in one of the finest ships then afloat called the "Mehitabel." ]Ier rival was the "America," Mr. William Clark, master. Capt. Bant first acfjuired a realty in Boston through his marriage to Mercy Whitwdl, wlio owned "half a double house " at the South End of Boston, which she inherited from lier father, William Whitwell, mariner. He had been twice married, and had a son by his first wife named Samuel, who was an " Inn Keeper " at tlie " Sign of the Golden Candlestick," near Elliston's Corner. Mercy was the daughter of the second wife, ]\Lary Whitwell, who, with Samuel, settled the Whitwell estate. The Inventory amounted to £'1732 in the year 1G84. His dwelling house and land were valued at £320. Some of the articles in the house were as follows : " In the Hall. — 10 leathern chairs & stooles : one sideboard ; two tables ; two carpets ; Looking glass and three flower potts, Brass Andirons." " /« the Parloitr: — one bed. bolster, pillows & curtain, one trundle- bed and bedding ; two chests, glass ease ; chairs ; wicker chairs, stooles and cushions ; table; trunks; seabed; andirons; G p' sheets, 3 bolsters, 3 tablecloths and 18 napkins, etc." Previous to his marriage Capt. Bant had loaned .-t'oO to dolui Wilkins on the estate occupied by Wilkins' tenant, George Elliston ; and, from his shop, called Elliston's Corner. Elliston's Corner is often referred to in ancient documents. It was on Conduit Street (afterward Old Drawbridge Street, and later Ann Street, which became a part of North Street in modern times) and opposite the foot of Cross Street, but it must be remembered that Boston streets were not officially named until 1708. The deeds of this property are in Book 13, leaf 430; also ]>ook 1;"), leaf 17, extracts from which are as follows : "On the 13th of January, Anno Domini, one thousand six hundred and eighty nine and in the first year of the Reign of William & ^Lary, King & Queen over England, Richard Brookes set his hand and seal to a deed which he held from John Wilkins thereby conveying the estate near the Town Dock to Bant, s*^ Bant having advanced money thereon (£50)." 256 APPENDIX I. The property is described as follows: Wilkins to Brookes. "This Indenture made the twenty-third day of ffebriiary, Anno Domini, one thousand six hundred and eighty and five Annoque K, K,^ Jacobi Secundi Anglia et Secundo Between John Wilkins of Bristoll within the County of New Plimouth, Newengland, Pottor, and Anstis his wife on the one part and Richard Brookes of Boston, gunnsmith, on the other, in consideration of the summe of fifty pounds convey to Brookes a Dwelling House and land Scittuate neere the Town Dock now in occupation of George Elliston, Shopkeeper, bounded E. by Joseph Webb, ]Sr. by Habbakkuck Glovor, S. by the street that leadeth to the s<^ Town Dock and W. by land of Eliakim Hutchinson, being formerly Nehemiah Webbs full and cleere part of the Dwelling house and land of his Hon*^ Father, Richard Webb, deed, and bearing date July 1, 1659, and according to the same is and hath been formerly divided and fenced from Joseph Webbs half of the same house and since by the s*^ JSTeheraiah Webb con- veyed unto the s"^ John Wilkins by deed of June 25, 1670, — allow seventy pounds to remain, also four pounds more." Capt. Gilbert Bant did not live at Elliston's Corner after he came into possession. In 1693, he added to his homestead at the South End of Boston : "■ Gilbert Bant and Wife from Annis Hill, ad rax., Boston, Green Lot next street southerly part." (Suffolk Deeds, Book 16, leaf 231.) This states that Annis Hill sells for debts of her husband Thomas Hill her estate of Inheritance to Gilbert Bant mariner and Mercy his wife "daughter of William Whitwell late of Boston, mariner, deceased " the same consisting of half a double house at the southerly end of Boston, "butted on the Green lot lying next street, N. W. on Deacon Robert Sanderson, S. E. and S. on house of said Gilbert and Mercy 30 feet for a consideration of £50." " Peaceable and quiet posession and seizon of the house, land and premises was had and executed in the presence of John Walley, Philip Langdon and Thomas Newton. Acknowledged before Peter Sargeant." In 1695-6, Emma Jepson conveyed her estate of inheritance to Gilbert Bant. This consisted of a piece of land adjoining Bant on the west. These, with what his wife possessed at time of marriage, completed his estate at the South End of Boston. He continued to reside there until 1708, and there his children were born, Mary (who afterward became the ancestress of all the Bronsdons), having first seen the light when her father had just returned from a voyage. Extracts from Old Diaries. When Honorable Waitstill Winthrop was in England in 1683, he records calling on Bant and "found M'' Quarles dying there." APPE>^ DIX I. •> -.•) I Samuel Sewall also mentions Jiant : ''Octo'- 231 1688. To Mr. Edw. JIull uL the Hal in Ihunl, Al^ato, London. Tins is to enclose Bill of Lading . . . p' tlio .Mehetahel (Jap^ Bant Commander consi<--ned to yourself. I intend God willing to see you p' the ne.xt ship of which M"' W" Chirk is master." Lawrence Hammond writes: '' Feb. 10'" 1689. Tliis day sailed for London M-- Bant ^: in lier S' Edm'i Andross late Gov' of Newengland M'' Jos Dudley M-" ] 'aimer M' Randolph ISP West M'' (Jraliam cS: others who are sent liomc ])y tlie King as by bis letter arriv'' bere in Nov"^ last. They anchored at Nantaskct tlie wind coming Soutberly." ''Feb. 15'" Cap' Bant witb S'' Edmund &c is said to sail from Nan- tasket for London." From Wintbrop's Diary : ''Jan. 26'" 1691-2. News came to town by Robert Orcbard of Dol- berry's .... Sir W" Tbipps and Gov'' Foy taken into France. Quelcb and Bant also." Later, he writes : " Sabbath March 12'" 1692-3 Bant arrives in the America 9 weeks from Isle of Wight." Evidently, he was not detained in France, although he lost his ship <' Mehetabel/' and was then master of another vessel, the "America," of which at one time William Clark was master. Memoranda From Other Sources. On page 89, Vol. I, Annals of King's Chapel : " A Memorandum of sure honest and well disposed persons that con- tributed their assistance for and towards erecting a Cliurch for God's Wor- ship in Boston according to the Constitution of the Church of England as by law established." The list of names includes " Gilbart Bant." Feb., 1707, "Cap' Gilb. Bant paid line for chimney being on tire 10 shillings." (Town Records of Boston.) About the year 1707, Capt. r>ant retired from active sea-faring life, and engaged in building a mansion house on Middle, now Hanover Street. Feb. 7, 1703, he had purchased of Jeremiah Taylor a piece of land on the street leading to Mill Bridge, near the mill pond. (See Book 21, leaf 483, Suffolk Deeds.) May 8, 1706, he increased his holdings near Mill Creek (afterward Blackstone Street). 17 258 APPENDIX I. The Mansion House, which he erected on this land, was ready for occii- pancy about the time his daughter Mary married Benjamin Bronsdon, Mr. Robert Bronsdon's son. Doubtless the wedding took place there. (See p. 70.) This house stood until 1870, and was finally known as the "Blackstone House," having then been a public house for many years, part of the time under the name of the '' Mansion House." Although it brings us some- what in advance of our history of Capt. Gilbert Bant, this seems the place to quote an article from the Boston Eveiiing Transcrijpt, which was printed in the edition for April 13, 1870. It relates to the demolition of the Bant Mansion, and incidentally gives some reminiscences of William Bant, who had inherited the mansion from his father, Capt. Gilbert Bant. The name of the writer is unknown to us. The article is as follows : " The further widening of Hanover Street will cause the removal of another of the ancient landmarks of our city- — the Blackstone House- — situated between Blackstone and Cross Streets. The Philistines have already laid violent hands upon the venerable structure, and in a few days it will be numbered with the things that were. There is no particular interest associated with this building save its antiquity and its former grandeur. From the records, it appears to have been built about the year 1714 by Gilbert Bant, who is described in the deeds as " mariner and mer- chant " of Boston. The house was an elegant and spacious edifice for those days, built of brick and three stories high, and was elaborately orna- mented in front with pilasters, balconies, etc., and in the interior was finished in the highest style of elegance and magnificence, and was undoubtedly a first-class mansion. Mr. Bant died in 1732. In his will this estate was bequeathed to his son William Bant, who was also a merchant He was fond of high life and extravagant living, in which he freely indulged, maintaining a splendid establishment of horses and carriages, and a large retinue of servants. He died in 1754. After his death, the estate passed into the hands of his friend and executor, Ezekiel Goldthwait, Esq., who had for seven years occupied the mansion, and maintained the same style of luxurious living. He was considered to be a man of wealth, and for many years his family held high rank among the most autocratic and fashionable circles of the town. ''The estate measured upwards of one hundred feet on Hanover street, and included the land and brick building on the north side. Part of this building was originally the stable attached to the Bant or Goldthwait man- sion, and was iised as such and for the accommodation of the numerous servants belonging to the establishment. There was also a large garden in the rear of the mansion house extending more than one hundred feet from Hanover street, which was always kept in a high state of cultivation. " The old staircase is to be removed intact and sold elsewhere, and kept as a specimen of the style of 150 years ago.* Cuff Goldthwait, a slave, * Note. The balusters are the same as those of the Hancock House and the old Cralgle House, in Cambridge. Three kinds of twists on each stair, made of oak wood, and probably carved in England. The purchaser of the old staircase was the late Mr. Greeley Curtis of Boston. Al'PKNDlX J. o.-r) stole money from .Mr. Goldtliwait, and hid it about the premises, as he declared. He was sold to the West Indies as a imnishimMit, hut never revealed the hiding place of the -did, whirh lias l)ccn diligently searched for ever since." There are errors in the foregoing article, one of which is the .state- ment that Mr. Goldthwait occupied the house hciorc the death (d William Bant. Mr. Goldtlnvait livinl in a snuiller house on tlie I'.ant estate at that time. Capt. Bant having decided to stay ashore, became a merchant of l^os- ton. He was still a ship owner, and imported his wares, some of whidi lie sold from his mansion, as we note by his advertisements in the Ketcs Letter, a few of which we quote : " Dry Siiccots or Bomcittron to be Sold at two shillings a ]iouiul at the House of Capt. Gilbert liant, Middle Street." "A very likely negro woman aged about eighteen years that has had the Small pox lately arrived who speaks English. To be sold by Capt. Gilbert Bant and to be seen at his house in Middle Street Boston." (News Letter, January, 1719, in the " Boston Library " of the Boston Public Library.) Capt. Bant took part in town affairs, and held various offices. He was elected constable in 1706, but declined, and paid his tine instead of serving. In the year 1711, he was chosen " Tything-man," and in ]71:;, 1715 and 1717, he was "Auditor " of the Town of Boston. " 1709. Cap* Gilbert Bant & M'" John Indecott possessors of the wjiarf at foot of Cross Street did consent that the said wharf should be released to the Town of Boston and did sign and seal a quit claim thereof on the back side of Lease." (See Suffolk Deeds for this transaction.) '' Cap*. Bant collected a subscription of £'oO which he presented to the selectmen to\vards widening the Mill Bridge which was carried out." (Town Records.) Committee on Fortifications. " Jan. 23, 1718. It was voted that certain persons including Cap' Gil- bert Bant and Samuel Greenwood be committee to view and consider the state of the Fortifications of the Towne and report what they think proper to be done thereon and whether they think it advisable that a r>attery be planted on the end of the Longe Wharf e, and that the same Committee be Impowered to repair the North Battrey in the most manner they can not exceeding One Hundred and Fifty pounds." Note. In 1706 the North Battery had been carried out 120 feet in length and 40 feet in breadth. At the October Town Meeting of that year, IDOO pounds were voted for securing and finishing the wharves already begun at Merry's Point, and for the Fortification to be placed there, and also for some additional wharf "to face tlie Old Wharfe where the Guns formerly stood in order to improve tlie same."" 260 APPENDIX I. To Regulate Emigration. "Nov. 22, 1715. Evan Daviss brought in sick on a ship of which Capt. Gilbert Bant is the owner it is required of Bant to take the care of said Evan and provide him with medicine and subsistance and save the town from that charge." "Aug. 26, 1720. Cap* Gilbert Bant went Surety for Anthony Under- wood who was admitted a new inhabitant." (Town records.) Additional Landed Property. "Aug. 13, 1709. John Jepson to Gilbert Bant. Middle Street." "Nov. 4, 1712. Ship Street. Wharf purchased from Mary Downes." (Book 26, leaf 256, Suffolk Deeds.) Capt. Bant also purchased land " near Charlestown Ferry " and 400 acres of land at Worcester, in the year 1716. He built two additional houses on Middle Street. His son, William Bant, was master of a ship in 1726. He followed the sea until his father's death in 1732, when he also developed into a Boston merchant and a successful one, like his father before him. Mrs. Mercy Bant died before her husband and was buried in the Bant Tomb on Copp's Hill, which is on the Hull Street side and now belongs to the heirs of the late Frederic Walker Lincoln. Mr. Lincoln, when asked for the history of the tomb, replied that he did not know how it came into the possession of his ancestor, Amos Lincoln. Capt. Bant was probably about 70 years old when he died, in November, 1732. His Will is preserved in the Suffolk Probate Registry, and is copied in Book 31, on leaf 187. It bears date 1726. Will of Cai't. Gilbert Bant, In the Name of God Amen. I Gilbert Bant of Boston in the County of Suffolk, Merchant, being of sound and disposing mind and memory (praised be God for the same) and being desirous to settle that temjDoral estate that God hath blest me with do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament in manner and form following : First and principally I commend my soul into the hands of Almighty God my Creator hoping through the Merits, Death and passion of my Dear Saviour and Redeemer Jesus Christ to obtain free pardon and remission of all my sins and my body I commit to the earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executor hereinafter named and as to my temporal estate I Give and Devise the same as followeth : Imprimis : my mind and will is that all my just debts funeral expenses and other charges be paid and discharged. APPENDIX T. •2ant carried on l)usines8 as a merchant in Dock Square. The Boston Eveninfj I'osf of Oct. 17, 1774, has his advertisement, as follows : "William Bant Begs leave to inform his friends customers and others that he has to sell by wholesale and retail at his store fronting Dock Square Boston. " A General Assortment of English and India Goods suita\)le for tlie approaching season the whole of which were imported before the 31*^ of August last. " A Great Variety of Cotton, Woolen and Silk Goods to be exchanged for an article more convenient to the advertiser, Casli." William Bant was a stanch patriot. When 17 years old he joined the ^-'Anti-Stamp Fire Society," which combined politics with service. In 1769 he was one of the " Sons of Liberty." He was on the famous Committee to prevent "Monopoly and Oppression" in 1774. He was a member of the '■'Independent Company" formed at Boston, Dec. 7, 1776. (See State Archives.) He was also interested in other ways in the public welfare, for we find his name as one of a Committee to Secure Subscriptions for tlie first street lamps in Boston, in 1774. Adino Paddock, the Royalist, left William Bant in charge of his affairs when he hurriedly left for Nova Scotia; and, later, proceeded to the Isle of Jersey, where he died in 1804, and is remembered in Boston chiefly in connection with the "Paddock elms," which he set out by the Common. Daring the British occupation the Lewis family withdrew to Rehoboth. Mrs. Bant was there with her father. (See Diary of Ezekiel Price.) ^Ir. Bant was also going and coming between that place and the army on " important business." Ezekiel Price was a cousin to the Lewises. Extracts from Price's Diary. "Aug. 8, 1775. At Attleborough. Got to Daggetts at Rehoboth about 11 oclock forenoon. We all visited M'' Bant and lady, M" Gray and Ezekiel Lewis. Drank coffee." " Thursday, Jan. 6, 1776. M"" William Bant called here (Stoughton) on his way to the army &c." 264 APPENDIX I. In 1777 John Hancock, in a note to the corporation of Harvard College, speaks of '•' Mr. William Bant my Attorney in Boston." (Given by Mr. W. G. Brown, in charge of the archives at Harvard University.) We find mention, in the newspapers of that period, of business trans- actions in which Mr. Bant was acting for John Hancock, who was at that time in New York attending Congress. The following extracts from Hancock's letters to his wife explain them- selves, and incidentally show in what estimation he held William Bant : York Town, Oct. 18"^ 1777. My Dear BiAly. My present Intention is to leave Congress in eight days but more particulars in my next. I shall hope & desire that you will meet me on the road. I have desired M'' Bant to accompany you in the carriage & when we meet he can take my sulkey and I return with you in the carriage to town. M'" Bant must hire or borrow a servant to attend you on horseback. My dear I hope your health will admit of your coming with me (signed) Johx Haxcock. Dover within 60 miles of Hartford. Saturday, one of Clock. 8'" Nov. 1777. My Dear . . . What if you should on Monday set out to meet me on the Litchfield road and then if I am not able to reach Hartford on that day I shall have the satisfaction of seeing you on the road. If you think the ride will be too much for you I would not have you undertake it but I hope you will not ride many miles before we meet as I trust jVP' Bant is with you. My Reg'^^ to him and my best wishes attend him. (signed) Yours forever, John Hancock. William Bant was a member of St. John's Grand Lodge (Masonic) of Boston, the records of which have been published. Under date of Nov. 18, 1769, his name is in a list of eighty or more brethren who were present at a dinner served at the " British Coffee House." He there offered a petition in behalf of " Bro'' Jon'* Clarke Lewis who in his passage from Ireland to Boston lost all he had by the Ship's foundering under him and taking to the Boat was after Several Days taken up by a Vessel bound to South Carolina and carried in there;" after due consideration, this business was put over until the " 23'',aut in behalf of Bro'" Jonathan Clarke Lewis refcrr" over to this time. Wlien the circumstances of the Affair were made known to tlie Brethren present it was immediately agreed tliat a Collection should be made forthwith Whereupon the Grand Secretary carried about a Hat to tlie Brethren in the Order as they sat and upon returning to his IMace found that he had gathered the Sum of Twenty-nine Pounds One Shilling and Four Pence Lawful JNIoney. ''After this Affair . . . the Musick went on till Night when the Hall was finely illuminated by Seventy-two Candles in the Chandiliers and Sconsces and by Nine Large Candles in the Several Lodges Candlesticks." (See Eecords of the Grand Lodge of Mass., printed by Grand Recorder S. D. Nickerson.) William Bant did not live to see the close of the Revolutionary War. His health failed to such an extent that he was forced to remove to the country and went to Groton, where some of his wife's relatives were living. There he died, Nov. 27, 1780. This beautiful and tender tribute to his excellent character was pub- lished in the Continental Journal of Dec. 14, 1780. The author is unknown, but the enthusiasm of his style suggests Hancock as the writer. Obituary. '' On Monday the 27"> ult. died at Groton after a few days illness in the 42'^ year of his age William Bant Esq. formerly an inhabitant of this town. "In this gentleman were united an uncommon assemblage of amial)le qualities. In his family he was a most affectionate and tender husband, the kindest master and the most affable and obliging friend. He possessed that share of good nature and ease of manners which rendered him agreeable at the very first acquaintance and by a sincerity — a frankness and generosity of mind he in an unusual degree won the hearts of those who more i)articu- larly knew him. "His actions were regulated by the strictest rules of honour and integ- rity. He used not to turn aside from beholding the sorrows of those around him. From his table the poor were often supplied with bread and by his purse the wants of the distressed were often relieved. "He was a zealous friend to the liberties antl independence and was much respected in that part of the country where, for the last eighteen months of his life, he has resided. "His death is a memento of the shortness and uncertainty of human life and should teach us who are the living so to number our days that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. "He was taken away suddenly and in the prime of life. This is the consolation left his friends that he did not live unmindful of another state but to those who were connected with him he made the concerns of his immortal part the subject of much conversation. 26^ APPENDIX 11, " His remains were interred the 29"' iilt. and followed to the grave by a large concourse of people who appeared to be deeply affected on the melan- choly occasion. " It may indeed be said that as in life he was beloved so at his death he is lamented by all who knew him. He has left behind him an amiable widow whose loss is inexpressible and can only be made up by a participa- tion of that good which religion affords." He left no children to perpetuate his virtues. His widow married at Groton, three years later, the Hon. Caleb Davis, Esq. (See Boston Gazette for Sept. 1, 1783.) She lived bat a short time, and we find in the Massa- chusetts Gazette of Jan. 16, 1787 : " Died. In this town (Boston) on Friday last (Jan. 12"^) Mrs. Mary Anne Davis, Consort of the Hon. Caleb Davis Esq." Mr. Davis was, in 1780, Speaker of the first Massachusetts House of Representatives. APPENDIX II. Ancestry of Abigail Baker. [Wife of John Box Bbonsdon, see No. (282), of Milton (p. 100).] Richard Baker^ the emigrant, arrived in Boston, Nov. 28, 1635, from London, in a " Norsey Barque" called the "Bachelor," which had cleared from Gravesend, below London, Eng., Aug. 18, 1635. He was master's mate, but came with the intention of remaining in the colony. (See Baker Geneal. by Edmund J. Baker, Esq.) Richard Baker was a man of superior mould and capacity. He had relatives in America who were prosi)erous and respected. He brought property from England himself. He settled in Dorchester and became influential in church and town matters, achieved wealth, and married into one of the leading families. He was a Proprietor in all town Divisions except the " Great Lots." He drew Lot No. 5 in the Milton (6th) Division, which he sold to S. Trescott. In 1639 Faith Withington was his wife. Richard Baker was made freeman in 1642 ; became a member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Co. in 1658. Nearly every year from 1642 until 1685 he served as town officer, being Selectman in 1653. In 1668 he was elected Ruling Elder in the church, but declined to serve. He- died Oct. 25, 1689, and his wife Faith died Feb. 3, 1688-9. Faith was the daughter of Henry Withington, a prominent citizen of the town of Dorchester. He came to America in 1636. He was one of the six that signed the church covenant with the Rev. Richard Mather, 23, 6, APPENDIX ir. 201 1636, and was soon after chosen Uulin^^ Klder, wliich (,llirc 1,,. UoM twenty- nine years. He was a Selectman in 16;!6 and -ratiU'e in puhlic lands in 1637. He also drew '^jot Nnmber 9" in Milton in the Si.xth Divi.siun, which he sold to Robert Tncker, a noted settler in Milton, wlio hiiilt a liouse which is still standing, the oldest in Alilton, and is of great hi.storical interest to the town. (See p. 175, Milton History.) Hi.s first wife was Elizabeth. He died Feb. 2, 1666-7, aged 79 years. His grand-danghter, Hannah With- ington, married the son of John Ikiker^, who was Jolin ]?aker», Jr.; tlui.s Mrs. Abigail (Baker) Bronsdon is descended frnin fim <,f tiie cliildron of Elder Henry Withington. (For an account of this descent sec below, ^' Third Generation.") Henry Withington liad no children by his second wife, Mrs. Marjorie (Tnrner) Paul, who was of " JMayflower " descent. Second Generation. The children of Richard' and Faith (Withington) Baker were eight in number. Of these children, John-', the second cliild, is the ancestor of Abigail (Baker) Bronsdon's descendants, and was b. Ai)r. 30, 1643, in Dorchester, and m. Preserved Trott, July 11, 1(;67.* He lived at Savin Hill. His house was occupied as a barrack for American troops during the siege of Boston. He appears to have been an efficient townsman and served during a succession of years in different town offices. He died Aug. 26, 1690; his wife died Nov. 2o, 1711. Preserved Trott was the daughter of Thomas and Sarah (Proctor) Trott of Dorchester, and was born 1646. Her father, Thomas Trott, sailed from liristol, Kng., May 23, 1635, in the "James." He was made freeman in 1641, and joined the church the same year; Selectman in 1646; bought house and three acres of land, four acres of swamp, and four acres in each of the three divisions; owned lift}' acres in all. He drew Lot No. 1 in Sixth Division, Milton, at Pine Tree brook (on Canton Avenue). The Trotts lived on Duncan Hill, afterward Spurr's, now Codman Hill. Thomas Trott was a respected citizen of Dor- chester. He died July 28, 1696, aged 82 years (although authorities differ). His wife was Sarah Proctor, died May 27, 1712, dau. of George and Edith Proctor, who came from England and settled in Dorchester. George Proctor was grantee in 1634, 1637 and 1656. He also drew a lot in Milton (Xo. 2), which he sold to Robert Babcock. He was town bailiff in 1612. 'I'he Proctors lived on the northeast side of Meeting-House Hill. The children of John Baker- and Preserved (Trott) Baker were ten in number, of whom John^, the third child, was born Nov. 25, 1761. lie was the ancestor of Abigail (Baker) Bronsdon. He m. Hannah Withington, May 16, 1708. His dwelling-house was situated on "the great country road," so called, now Washington Street in Dorchester. The house was occupied by descendants of John Baker down to a comparatively recent * Original record of marriage reads: " John Baker the son of M' Richard JJaker was married unto Preserved Trott by M"' Damfort of Cambridge the 11"' day of the 5"' mo. called July 1667." 268 APPENDIX II. date. The region in the neighborhood was known as " Baker's Plain," and in 1748 the avenue was called " Baker's Lane." John Baker" owned exten- sive farming tracts in the vicinity. He died Oct. 9, 1746 ; his wife died Apr. 30, 1768, aged 82 years. The parents of Hannah (Withington) Baker were Capt. John Withing- ton, who commanded the Dorchester Company on the disastrous expedition to Canada in 1690, and his wife, Elizabeth Preston.* Capt. Withington was the eldest son of Deacon Richard Withington (only son of Elder Henry Withington) by his wife Elizabeth, daughter of Philip Eliot, brother of the famous "Apostle to the Indians," John Eliot. Philip Eliot's parents were Bennet and Lettice (Agar) Eliot. Hannah (Withington) Baker Avas born in Dorchester, Dec. 19, 1686. Children of John" and Hannah (Withington) Baker were seven in number. Of these children, the sixth, Elijah^ born May 14, 1720, was the father of Abigail (Baker) Bronsdon. He married Hannah Puffer of Stough- ton, Nov. 29, 1744. He removed to " Stoughtonham," now Sharon, Mass., and settled on the westerly side of that part of the "Bay road" which is the boundary between Sharon and Stoughton. (See History of Canton.) His dwelling-house still stands. Elijah Baker was a Minute Man in the Revolutionary War. He died Nov. 8, 1802 ; his wife died Apr. 6, 1806, aged 80 years. Hannah (Puffer) Baker was born Oct. 15, 1726. Puffer Ancestry of Abigail (Baker) Bronsdon. The original ancestor of the Puffers in America was Matthias Puffer, who was in Dorchester in 3 663. He married three times: first, Rachel Farnsworth of Braintree, Mar. 12, 1662, and she, Avith their oldest son, Joseph, was slain by the Indians at Mendon, where they were then residing. Matthias Puffer built a house on -'Blue Hill Plain" in 1690, having pur- chased 340 acres of land, besides having granted to him 220 acres. Rachel, his first wife, was the ancestress of Abigail Baker. His house stood on the corner of Washington and Blue Hill Streets, where John Davenport's house now stands. His life was an eventful one. (See History of Canton.) He died May 9, 1717. His second and third marriages were in the Everett and Crehore families. His oldest son, John-, married Mary Holbrook, Oct. 17, 1695 ; she was probably dau. of John " Holebrook " of Roxbury and his wife, Elizabeth (Hemingway) Holebrook. The Holbrooks descended from Thomas Holbrook, who came over in the Hull Company. He was from Broadway, Essex Co., England. * Elizabeth Preston, b. 1653; d. Apr. IS, 1714; m. for her second husband, James White, on Feb. 13, 1696, whose first wife was the dau. of Richard and Faitli AVithington — Sarah, b. 1645. Al'l'KNDlX II. :!t;0 John Putfer^ Jr, son of John^m.l Mary ^llok-bn.ok; I 'u IT..,-, was h Oct 3, 1698; m. at Boston, Dec. II, 1725, Abigail, dan. of .Inl.n" an.l Sanih (Clapp) Vose of Milton, Mass. John A^ose' was tlie son of Kdwar.l Vose', and he of Robert VoseS who came from Lancasliiro, Kn-. UnU-v\ \-„.s..' wa.s b. about 1599 in Lancashire, Eng. ; d. in Milton, Mass., Oct. IC. ir.s;; iie was a man of note in the early days. He lived near tho j„nrti,.n of Canton Avenue and Brook road. He was one of the three petitioners for tho' inc.r- poration of Milton. His son, Edward Vose^ was b. K;;;*;. d. .laii. L'9, KIC. Clapp. Sarah Clapp^ who m. John Vose^, was the dan. of Ezra Clapp by his first wife, Abigail (Pond) C!lapp. Ezra Clapp' was b. May 22, 1G4(), in Dorchester; removed to Milton as early as 1667. He lived in the I'ond house, next the Rev. Peter Thatcher (see Thatcher's Diary), and was the " true and loving friend " of his pastor. Ezra Clapp d. Jan. 23, 1 7 1 7. He was the son of Deacon Edward Clapp of Dorchester, Selectman for many years. From the church records : "The 8th day of the 11th mo. 1664 being the Sabbath day. Deacon Edward Clapp departed this life and now resteth with the Lord there to spend an eternal Sabbath with God and Christ in Heaven after that he liad faithfully served in the office of a Deacon for the space of about five or six and twenty years." Deacon Clapp was the brother of Roger Clapp, who was among the most noted of the early Dorchester settlers. History gives a full account of Roger Clapp's participation for sixty years in matters civil, military and ecclesiastical in town and province. Pond. Abigail Pond, who m. Ezra Clapp', was probably the dan. of Robert Pond. All these were ancestors of Mrs. Abigail (leaker) I'.ronsdon. The tombstones of John'^ and Abigail (Vose) Puffer, tlie grandparents of Mrs. Abigail (Baker) Bronsdon, are at Canton, and inscribed as follows : Here lies buried the Body of John Puffer, who died Jan. 16, 1750, aged S5 y. — m. 6 d. Here lies buried the Body of Mrs, Abigail, loife of Mr. John Puffer who died Feb" 8,1774, in ye 73'' y. of her age 270 APPENDIX III. APPENDIX III. Farrar Ancestry. [See Mrs. Patty (Farkar) Bronsdon (p. 155).] John^ and Jacob^ Farrar, brothers, settled, the first in Hingliam in 1635^ and in Woburn, 1655. Jacob settled in Lancaster and is the ancestor of the descendants of Mrs. Patty (Farrar) Bronsdon, wife of (285) Capt. Benjamin Bronsdon, who lived in Milton, j\lass. Jacob Farrar was an original pro- prietor of Lancaster in 1653, and was at that time about 30 years old. He had a wife, Ann, whom he married about 1640 and left in England with their four children and half his property until he had prepared a home for them in America. He sent for them, and they arrived in Lancaster in 1658. Jacob Farrar, Jr. (17 years old in 1659), assisted in marking the bounds of the town. (See Lancaster Town Records.) His wife brought £168 7s. with her. During King Philip's War the Indians destroyed Lancaster in 1675. The sons of Jacob, Henry and Jacob, Jr., were killed. One remain- ing son, Joseph, and a daughter, Mrs. John Houghton, fled to Woburn with their parents to the home of John Farrar ; but Jacob did not long survive the terrible disaster to his home and family. He died Aug. 14, 1677, and his widow married John Sears of Woburn. Jacob Farrar, Jr., who was killed by the Indians, had married, in 1668, Hannah, dau. of George Hayward of Concord; she was born Feb. 20, 1647. She returned to her father's home in Concord after the massacre, and there married, second, Adam Holloway, Apr. 5, 1681, and third, Jonathan Furbush, Jan. 2, 1705-6. She had fovrr sons by Jacob Farrar^, one of whom, Jacob Farrar, 3d, m. Dec. 26, 1692, Susanna Rediate, b. Dec. 1, 1672; they lived in the north part of Concord, Mass., where he d. Apr. 29, 1722, and his widow d. March, 1738. They had eleven children. The third son was named John and he was b. Sept. 14, 1707; m. 1731, Mary . One of his brothers was killed in Lovewell's Fight at Fryeburgh, Me., and another taken prisoner at Fort Miller. John Farrar's son, John, Jr. (the second son), was b. June 25, 1741 ; m. Hannah l^rown of Concord, Mass., Aug. 13, 1765, and lived in Shrews- bury, jVIass. He was a " Taverner " and a INtajor in the Militia. He d. Jan. 16, 1793. His widow m. Rev. Joseph Lee of Royalton, May 21, 1795. (See Columbian Centinel, Jan. 23, 1793, for obituai-y of Major Farrar.) His daughter Martha (Patty) was b. in Shrewsbury, Aug. 26, 1769 ; m. at her mother's home in Royalton by her stepfather. Rev. Jos. Lee, to Capt. Ben- jamin Bronsdon* of Milton. (See their history.) Mrs. Patty Bronsdon was very highly connected ; among her near rela- tives were Cliief Justice Farrar of New Hampshire, the last graduate of APPENDIX 1\- ANI> V. •_>; ] Harvard College under the Crown, Tiuf. S;uiiik'1 I'arrar of Harvard rnlli-K«'. Rev. Stephen Farrar of New Ipswioli, N. H., Kev. Jos. Farrar of Didilin! K H., Rev. George Farrar of Kaston, lier cousin Jonathan Farrar, Li.-ut. and Commander at the North ]h-idge, Concord, on the I'.ith oi April, 177;-., and several other cousins who were otticers in the army, and female cousins who had married among the highest in the land. I\Irs. Patty P.roiisdon was very beautiful and attractive, and made friends wherever she went. She was much beloved in JNfilton. APPENDIX IV. Mrs. Ruth ^Rich) Bronsdon's Ancestry. [See (287) William Broxsdon^ (p. 102).] The original American ancestor of Ruth Rich was Richard Rich\ The first notice of him is on Nov. 6, 1674, in a deed of land in the old Ports- mouth Records. He was a prominent man. He m. Sarah, daughter of Gov. Thomas Roberts, the last Colonial Governor of New Hampshire. Their .son, Richard Rich'-^, settled at Eastham, INIass., on Cape Cod, and had seven children, the third of whom, Richard^, m. Anne and settled in Truro. They had nine children, of whom the fourth, b. 1704, m. Ruth Collins. His name was Zaccheus^ and he had a family of eleven children, of whom the sixth was named Thatcher Rich^ and was bapt. June 17, 17o*.»; m. Jane Lombard, Apr. 19, 1764, and these were the parents of Ruth (Rich'^j Brons- don. Jane Lombard was b. Apr. 12, 1742, and was descended from Thomas Lombard, who came from England to Dorchester in 1630 and later removed to Yarmouth, on Cape Cod. She was descended, also, from Gov. Treat of Connecticut. (See Treat Geneal.) Thatcher Rich was captain of a merdiant vessel and made many foreign voyages. His house was in Truro, and is probably yet standing. It is pleasantly located " near the shore on Parment river." APPENDIX V. McDuffee Family. Mrs. Louisa (McDuffee) Bronsdon, who m. (312) Mr. Lewis V. lirons- don of Milton, Feb. 6, 1844, was b. Apr. 11, 1817, and was the dau. of John and Martha (Doak) McDuffee of Bradford, Vt. The families of both her 272 APPENDIX VI. parents were of Scotch-Irish descent, and the first we find of the McDuffee name is in a book styled " Memoirs of Scotland." In Scottish history we trace the McDuft'ees to Shakspeare's tragedy of Macbeth, where the name was McDuff, and for his services to the King, McDuft' was rewarded by the gift of a large tract of land in the county of Fife, together with some other gifts from the crown, and "fee" was added to his name. About the year 1612 they appear in the north of Ireland, where "Matchless Martha" McDuffee saved a quantity of meal during the siege of the city of Londonderry in 1689, and freely distributed it to the starving people. "Matchless Martha" and her husband, John McDuffee, had several children, one of whom, Daniel McDuffee, emigrated to America with his wife and daughter in 1720, arriving safely in Boston, and in the Spring of 1721 settled, with other Scotch-Irish friends, in Londonderry, N.H. Daniel McDuffee's grandson, John McDutt'ee, was born in Londonderry, N. H., and when a young man removed to Bradford, Vt., where he owned a large tract of land and a ferry across the Connecticut Eiver. He followed the occupation of a civil engineer, and was a railroad pioneer," and made many surveys for the first railroads in America. John McDuffee was the father of Mrs. Louisa Bronsdon. Note. Mrs. Bronsdon died June 13, 1900, since tlie above was written. APPENDIX VI. Ancestry of Mrs. Lucius B. Marsh (See p. 123). ]\[ank. Kichard Mann^ emigrated to America from Cornwall, Eng., before 1644. He settled at Scituate, where he owned an estate at Mann Hill, a beautiful but gentle rise of land bordering the seashore, and known by that name since 1648. It is supposed he m. about 1644, Rebecca , when he built his house, as his first child is recorded in 1646. In Feb., 1655, while crossing the pond from his own house towards the farms, he broke through the ice and perished in sight of his friends, who were unable to rescue him. Second Generation. Thomas Mann^ m. Sarah about 1668. They had eight children, of whom Thoitias Mann^, b. in Scituate, Apr. 5, 1688, m. Deborah Joy, Dec. 8, 1714. Their son, Thomas Mann'', was b. Nov. 26, 1717, d. June 29, 1795. He was twice married : first, to Ruth Damon, Dec. 30, 1742, d. 1743; second, to Deborah Briggs, Jan. 10, 1746, d. Feb. 16, 1817. Thomas Mann^ was a sea captain. He was in the Russia trade, and APPENDIX \ 1. -JJ;', was master and part owner of a sliip until tlir War of tlio Kevolution. Ilr resided on tlie South Shore. He organized a coast guard eallcl the "Com- mittee of Inspection," Avliieh was under liis command. It -was composed of volunteers and rendered important service until the liritisli evacuated Boston, March 17, 1776. He became a wealthy man. His liou.se at Scituate Harbor, where he lived and died respected, is in a good state of preservation to this day. John Mann^, son of Capt. Thomas Mann\ was b. May 10, ITCI ; .1. June 6,1841. He resided in Scituate all his lite. He was twice married. His first wife was Patience Rogers, whom he m. didy, 17.S1 ; she d. ]).•(•. M, 1799. Their third child, John ^rann", was b. in Scituate, Nov. 1, 17.Sr); d. in Boston, Aug. 16, 1848. He m. Katherine Harrington, Nov. 30, 1809. She d. in Boston, Sept. 4, 1869. They had six children, all b. in Boston of whom Caroline E. Mann^ b. Mar. 9, 1820 ; m. July 5, 1842, Lucius B. Marsh. Harrington. The first of the line was Robert^ His was the last signature of the ninety persons who were the corporators of the town of Watertown, 1642- 44. He then owned a homestead given to him by Thomas Hastings, and this renders it probable that he was a kinsman of Deacon Hastings. He m. Oct. 1, 1649, Susanna George ; she was b. 1632 and d. July 6, 1694. He d. May 17, 1707; his ^Yil], dated Jan. 1, 1704-5, being the day before the third marriage of his daughter Susanna. Sept. 28, 1685, he gave to his son Joseph fifty-five acres of land. It is thought that all the Harringtons of New England are descended from Robert Harrington. In his Will he names his sons and also his daughters, all of whom had been married, and Joseph, son of his son Joseph, and his daughter-in-law, Joanna Ward, the widow of Joseph. To his youngest living son, Edward^, he gave his home- stead. The Inventory of his estate included sixteen lots of land, 642| acres, appraised £717, and 250 acres of Oldham Farm. He had thirteen children, of whom Edward-, b. Mar. 2, 1668-9, m. first. Mar. 30, 1692, Mary Ocington, and m. second, May 24, 1727, Anna Bullard of Weston. Of their nine children, the fifth child, Edward^, b. June 17, 1702; m. Dec. 15, 1731, Anna Bullard, b. 1715. He d. Dec. 6, 1792 ; she d. Oct. 6, 1771. Of their six children, Jonathan*, the youngest, was b. Jan..l2, 1741-2 ; m. Dec. 20, 1764, Grace Hagar, she b. May 7, 1744, and d. Oct. 1, 1778. He m. second, Catherine, dau. of Ross Wyman, IMar. 10, 1779, and returned to Watertown, which he had left about 1768 to res. in Shrewsbury. Jonathan and Cath- erine had a son, Jonathan^ and six other children. Jonathan*, Sr., d. suddenly about 1796-7. His wife Catherine then m. Isaac Davis, son of Capt. Isaac Davis of Acton, who was killed in Concord fight, Apr. 19. 1775. 18 274 APPENDIX vri. In 1802 Mr. Davis and wife rem. to Solon, Me., with one or more of the children. Jonathan Harrington^, Jr., was b. IMar. 10, 1780, in Watertown, and d. 1825. He went to Boston about 1794 and was apprenticed to Hon. Jonathan Hunnewell, mason and builder. He became a member of the Charitable Mechanics Association in 1802, and was then its President. His brothers, Wyman^ and Ephraim Harrington*, also became members, and his sister, Katherine Harrington*, b. Mar. 31, 1789, d. Sept. 4, 1869, m. Nov. 30, 1809, John Mann, and was the mother of Mrs. Lucius Bolles Marsh. See No. (434). Note. The history of Jonathan Harrington^ during his residence in Shrewshury is very interesting. We read in the Colonial Archives, State House, Boston, tliat Jona- than Harrington of Shrewsbury was Sergeant in Capt. Job Cushing's company on the inth of April, 1775; they marched to Cambridge and served 22 days; also Jonathan Harrington of Shrewsbury in Capt. Wright's company, Aug. 19th; year not given, probably 1775; third, Jonathan Harrington of Shrewsbury was chosen Second Lieu- tenant by the town of Shrewsbury and accepted by Council, Apr. 17, 1776, in Capt. Asa Eice's company in the Worcester Piegt. (Shrewsbury Co.). These enlistments were only for a short period. There can be no doubt that this is the Jonathan Harrington who was b. in Watertown, Jan. 12, 1741-2, and in 1678 removed with his family to Shrewsbury, Mass., but returned in 1779, where he d. in Ai^ril or early in May, 1703. 54 years old. He had purchased a nice farm and buildings in Acton and was about to remove thither, when he died. By exposure he took a severe cold, from the effects of which he died — probably contracted pneumonia. His Will was dated Apr. 18, 1793, and appointed his wife, Catherine (Wyman) Harrington as Execu- trix. His property was appraised at £684 : 19. His Will and other papers relating to his estate are to be found in Middlesex Co. Probate Office, Cambridge, Mass. APPENDIX VII. Loring Family (See p. 136). Ancestry of John Gould Loring. The name of Loring is said to be derived from the French Lorraine. The ancestor of John Gould Loring who married (300) Elizabeth Box Brons- don, was Thomas Loring, who came from Axminster, Co. Devon, England, Dec. 23, 1634, accompanied by his wife, Jane (Newton) Loring. They remained for a time in Dorchester, but settled in Hingham in 1635, where he was made " freeman." He was a Deacon in the church at Hingham, and had several children born in that town. In 1645, his dwelling having been destroyed by fire, he removed to Hull, where he d. Apr. 4, 1661. APPENDIX VIII. 275 Second Generatio7i : Benjamin Lorinf (Thomas^), b. in Hiugham, Nov. L'l, Kill; m. Mury Hawke of Hinghani, Dec. 8, 1070. Third Generation: Samuel Loriw/ (Benj.^, Thomas^), b. in Hull, 1080 ; m. Apr. 10, I7j(;, Jane, dau. of John and ]\Iaiy Collier. Fourth Generation, : Samuel Loring* (Saml.^, Benj.^, Thomas^), b. Feb. 3, 1720 ; ni. Jane, dau. of Joseph and INIary (Prince) Guuld. Fifth Generation. : Samuel Lorimf (Saml.'*, Saml.^, Benj.^, Thomas^), b. Nov. 9, 1753 ; m. Dec. 11, 1783, Huldah, dau. of John and Huldah (Brewster) Goold of Duxbury. These were the parents of Deacon John (lould Loring, who m. Elizabeth B. Bronsdon of Milton, 1821. Huldah Gould, the mother of Deacon John G. Loring, was descended, on her father's side, from Lieut. Robert Goold, and on her mother's side as follows: Huldah (Gould) Loring^, Huldah (Brewster) GoukP, William Brewster^, Jr., Deacon William Brewster^, Sr., Love B)rewster- and Elder William Brewster^, the pilgrim, who w^as b. in England, 15G0, landed at Plymouth, Dec. 22, 1G20, and d. in Duxbury, 1644, aged 84 years. APPENDIX VIII. Parker (See p. 148). Capt. Creighton Whitmore Barker'', Sen., who ni. Apr. 4,1848, IMargaret M. Bronsdon of Milton, see No. (485), w\as b. on the top of Fort Hill, Boston. His father, William®, was also a sea captain, Avho sailed mostly to the West Indies. Creighton W. Parker was a pupil at the Boylston School, and later at a School of Navigation. He worked up from cabin boy to the command of a ship. Among the vessels of which he was master were the " Mohawk " and the •' Daniel Sharp." During the Civil War shipping became very dull. Capt. Parker was offered the position of first officer on the '-'Agnes" for Singapore, by his friend, Capt. Gorham F. Bassett. Capt. Bassett wished to remain \n Singapore, and it was agreed that Capt. Parker should bring the ship back to Boston ; but this could not be done on account of tlie deatli of Capt. Parker in the Straits of Rio, of Java fever. Consequently, Capt. Bassett returned and brought the sad tidings to Mrs. I'arker, who liad 276 APPENDIX IX. expected to accompany her husband, witli their two little sons, on the next voyage to India around Cape Horn. Capt. Bassett sailed again, in I860, for India in a new ship, " The Java," which sailed away into the unknown. Her fate was never ascertained, and remains one of the tragic mysteries of the ocean. Capt, Parker was of Revolutionary ancestry. His grandfather, Josiah Parker^, Jun., was b. Nov. 20, 1760, at Natick ; d. Nov. JO, 1801, in Boston. He m. Aug. 18, 1784, Susanna Bender, who was great aunt to Greenough the sculptor. Josiah Parker^, Jun., was a member of Trinity Church, Boston. He had served a three years' enlistment in the Revolutionary Army in Crane's Artillery (see State Archives). Susanna, his wife, received a pen- sion (see list of 1840). The father of Josiah Parker^, Jun., also served in the army, and a brother, Oliver, who afterward emigrated to Frankfort, Me. Josiah Parker*, Sen., was b. at Newton, May 7, 1722, and was son of Noah^ and Sarah (Cummings) Parker and grandson of NathanieP and Mar- garet (Wiswall) Parker. Nathaniel'^ and Noali^ Parker were among the original owners of the mills at Newton Upper Falls, in the 17th century. They descended from SamueP and Sarah (Homan) Parker of Dedham. (See Jackson's History of Newton and History of Cambridge.) APPENDIX IX. The Vallette Family (See p. 162). The Vallettes were French Huguenots who sought an asylum in Amer- ica after the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1689. Some of the Vallettes came direct from New Rochelle, France, the port from whence many fugitives embarked ; others were in England with their leader, the Rev. Francis Bridon, who afterward came to Boston. There are different forms of spelling — Valet, Vallet, Vallete, Vilatte, Vallade, etc. ; but Vallette is doubtless correct. In the year 1702, under date of May 18th, Robert Livingston of New York wrote Fitz John Winthrop a letter in which we find mention of a Vallett : " Hon'''' Sir. Yesterday arr. from Surinam Jacques Vallett, a Frenchman and Inhabitant here. He brings news of King William's death." This is the Jacques Vallett who was in New York as early as 1699, and who married Judith Archambault. Possibly he came from France by way of the West Indies, remaining in the islands for a time. Al'l'KNDlX IX. 277 " Pierre Vallete and a brotlier (Christian naiur unkimwii) left lM-anf(5 together, Pierre for conscience' sake, luiL liis brother, who was a Konian Catholic, whatever his purpose was, wont to the West Indies." Tliis is according to a statement by a connection of Pierre Vallete's descendants. Pierre Vallete married Mary, the daugliter of Augustus Jay, wlio had left France for the same reason as I'ierre. They had children— Ktienne, born Mar. 23, 1723-4, and died Sept. 29, 1731; Angnste, born Mar. T, or S, 1726-7 ; Pierre, born July 27, 1729, no record of deatli ; Anne, died young, and Etienne, born July 5, 1737, died June 7, 1739. Pierre or Peter Vallete died Dec. 9, 1752, and liis wife died June o, 1762. He was a merchant, owned slaves, and was prosperous and respected. John Ptoland, whose Will is in Suffolk Probate Registry, made Peter Vallet of New York, merchant, executor of his Will in 1721. John Poland was a Boston merchant. In 1761 Peter Vallade, or Valard, was a voter in New York City. Vallete portraits and heirlooms are in possession of tlie Clark- son family of New York. In Boston the marriage is recorded of Peter Vallade and Mary Elizabeth Delo (De I'Eau), May 28,175]. These were probably the parents of David Valet, a soldier of the Revolutionary War. In the Archives at the State House, Boston, we lind the war record of David Valet, or Vallet, as follows : "David Vallet, Boston, Private, Capt. Bliss, Col. Patterson, Aug. 1, 1775. Enlisted, May 1, 1775. Service 3 mos. 6 days." Also : " David Valet. Rank of Matross. Muster and payroll of Capt. Jon. Stoddard, Col. Thos. Crafts' Regt. Artillery. Enlisted from May 8, 1777, to July 8, 1777." (See Vol. 38,'^p. 56.) Also : "David Vallet, cooper. State Brigantine, Hazard. Enlisted June 27, 1778, discharged Oct. 16, 1778. Service 3 mos. 19 d. Commanded by Capt. J. F. Williams." Also : " Ship Protector. David Vallet, cooper. Time of enlistment Aug. 18, 1780. Service of 8 mos. 17 d. Commanded by Capt. Williams. Reported captured May 5, 1781. Roll made up to time of capture of the vessel or date of return from captivity on Aug. 14, 1782." Fifteen months in an English prison ! "David Vallet. Ship Protector, Capt. J. P. Williams, Dec. 11, 1782." " Ship Protector, Capt. (Lt.) Lemuel W^eeks, Oct. 3, 1782." Doubtless served until the end of the War. 278 APPENDIX IX. David Vallette was a '< mariner" by occupation. He was well respected and one of those who sacrificed worldly advancement and prospects in the struggle for Independence. He married in May, 1774, Miss Abigail (Nabby) Milliken, daughter of Thomas Milliken and Sarah (Thompson). Mr. Mil- liken was a member of the celebrated St. Andrew's Lodge of Free Masons, which was the lodge to which Paul Kevere belonged. Mr. Milliken was Treasurer of the lodge and served on important committees, but on the out- break of hostile feeling he fled to Maine, and later to New Brunswick, but finally returned to Maine, where he had an estate, but never again set foot in his beloved native city. (See Eid Ion's " History of Saco Valley Settlers " for the descendants of Thomas Milliken and ancestry of the Milliken family, whose original ancestors were Hugh and "Ellison" Milliken of Boston.) When Mr. Milliken left Boston, he confided the care of his property to his daughter Abigail, who had recently married David Vallette. Abigail was the oldest of his children by his first wife, while by a second wife he had several very young children. Two of these (girls) and James Milliken, afterward wounded at Banker Hill, remained with their sister. Mr. Vallette, Avho was a mariner, Avent away on a sea voyage, and about three weeks later the Milliken residence in Fish Street, near Mountfort's Corner, was destroyed by fire. A graphic story of this misfortune appeared in the Transcript about fifty years ago, written by a daughter of Mrs. Vallette, no doubt. A contemporary account is as follows : "Aug. 10 1774. At or about this time a fire happened at midnight in a large brick dwelling house in Fish Street opposite Glidden's Shipyard, North End. It consumed the inside of a building and one house adjoining it. The flames were so sudden and so rapid as immediately upon discovery to communicate with the staircase and prevent the escape of those who occupied the chambers unless by leaping from the windows, which some did. The number lost was three women and two children burned to death." Mrs. Vallette showed great heroism and presence of mind, first throw- ing her little sister into the arms of ])ersons below and then leaping from the window herself. Friends received them until the first edge of their distress was somewhat dulled. Mrs. Vallette related in after years that nothing gave her a keener pang than to notice, among the ruins of their home, the burnt and twisted cage of her pet parrot. Mr. Vallette had brought it to her from a foreign land. Little Polly Milliken had been away among friends the night of the fire. In after years she married a Mr. Read. It was to a Lexington family named Reed that Mrs. Vallette finally went, as many of her friends were leaving town in consequence of various unpleasant encounters of the inhabitants and the British troops. What occurred there is best told by quoting a letter written to the Transcript some time during the middle of last century : APPENDIX IX. 279 *'In 17 i 5, April, Mrs. Vallette and lier fiieinl, Mrs. |;<.<',1, Nvere sittinij m the evening m tlieir home in Lexington over a lew dyiiifr eniherf. with their infants m their arms. The ck)ck liad struck .'h-vi'ii. (iuns liad been heard through the day — the iiring had ceased and they sat talking of the penis of the day when Mrs. Reed remarked, ' Hark, I hear a footstep ! ' "'It is only the rustling of the trees and we will not ho. needlessly alarmed,' answered Mrs. Vallette. " Just then a rap was heard at the door. " ' Who is there ? ' called Mrs. Reed in tremulous tones. " ' Friends,' replied a low voice speaking through the hole wliere the cord had been drawn in to prevent the lifting of the latch. " They immediately opened the door and three men entered in profound silence, each muffled in a long cloak. '' ' Do not be alarmed, ladies, said one. 'We are friends to our country and are pursued by the enemy. We have hid in the woods tlirou<^h the day and have now come to seek your bounty and a shelter for the night.' " ' And that you should have with all my heart,' said Mrs. Reed, whose countenance brightened up when she found that instead of the divaded •enemy her guests were those distinguished patriots, John Hancock, Samuel Adams and Paul Revere." Note. Mrs. Vallette, at least, must have known Paul lievere well, as they attended the same church and he was her father's friend. " Mrs. Reed continued, ' You would not be safe here a minute. Why, the Redcoats are prowling about us in every direction. They were here only yesterday eating up all my pies and bread and cheese, and because they could not find enough at my neighbors' to satisfy them, they must needs rip open their beds and leave their cider running out.' " ' G-entlemen,' said Mr. Hancock to his companions, 'what shall we do, for it is certain it is not safe here.' " They looked at each other, but did not speak: " ' Have you any neighbors where we might find safety for the night ? ' asked Mr. Hancock. " 'None except my father,' replied ]\[rs. Reed, 'who lives five miles off the main road. It would be dangerous for you to go by the road, and you would not find your way through the woods, and we have neither man nor boy to guide you. They have all gone to fight the Redcoats.' " 'Will you stay alone and mind my baby while I go and show these gentlemen the way?' asked Mrs. Vallette of her friend. "She answered, 'I will do so, although it is sad to be alone in such dangerous times ; but you must not go, you are lame, you never walked a mile in your life, you must not think of going on this wet night.' " Mrs. Vallette made no reply. She knew there was not a minute to be lost, so laying her infant in the arms of her friend, she wrapped her riding ■cloak around her and desired the gentlemen to follow her. " When they saw this deformed little woman, not over four feet high, prepared to walk a distance of over three miles, they looked at each other in mute astonishment, but not a word was spoken, for the case was desperate. " Mrs. Vallette taking the offered arm of INIr. Hancock, they went for- ward, the two other gentlemen bringing up the rear. The rain, which had fallen for some days previous, had so filled the brooks that the gentlemen 280 APPENDIX IX. were at times obliged to lift Mrs. Vallette over them. Thus wading and walking, they reached the farm house about 3 o'clock in the morning. " No sooner had they aroused the family and made known who they were and what they wanted, than every individual was np and in motion, and even the dog tried to show them that they should find protection by his gestures. " A blazing fire soon shone forth and a plentiful repast was provided^ and notwithstanding the gloominess of the times, a degree of cheerfulness and even humor pervaded the little company. At early dawn a carriage was provided to convey Mrs. Vallette home to her infant. Mr. Hancock politely lifted her into the carriage and said, 'Madam, our first meeting has been in troublous times. God only knows when these scenes will end, but should we survive the struggle, and you should ever need a friend, think of me.' " The narrative, as given by Mrs. Vallette's daughter, may be incorrect in some minor particulars, having been written from memory. The heroine of the adventure died in 1798, when her daughter was but 11 years of age. The main feature of the story, the fact that Mrs. Abigail Vallette did act as guide to Hancock and Adams to a place of safety, has been preserved in the traditions of the Vallettes, who went to Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1814, and who- knew not that such, a story had ever been published. The niece of Mrs. Vallette is still living and vouches for the truth of the leading event. This lady is a sister of the late Judge Milliken of Scarboro, Maine. He visited the daughters of Mrs. Vallette at Eoxbury, and learned the particulars from them of their mother's adventure. Mrs. Vallette was injured by a fall in childhood. She was never strong, and died of consumption, at the age of 45 years. Her husband, David Vallette, had died in 1788. David and Abigail (Milliken) Vallette had five children : An infant, b. in the winter of 1775, d. young. -Twins -! -^f?''^^' bapt. at Christ Church, Feb. 2, 1779. ( Abigail, ^ Peter Vallette, bapt. at Christ Church, Aug. 3, 1783. Mary Milliken Vallette, b. 1787, d. Feb. 26, 1868, aged 81. David died young. Abigail m. Benjamin Warren of Roxbury ''by Rev. John Eliot, D.D., July 3, 1801." Peter " Vallett" m. (601) Harriot A. S. Bronsdon "by Rev. Thomas Baldwin, Oct. 19, 1806." Mary Milliken Vallette resided with her sister, Mrs. Warren, in Roxbury. They are buried in the old Warren Street Cemetery. Mrs. Warren died Nov. 21, 1851, leav- ing son, Henry Vallette Warren, and other children. APPENDIX X. 281 APPENDIX X. Box Family (Soo ].. L'O'.m. [The following general information regarding the Hox Family in Knglaml and America has been colloctetl from various sources, lioth puhlic and private, such as tlie Genealogist, Vol. I, 1877, "The Visitation of London, lotiS," various I.DUihin parish registers, town and church records of Boston, State Archives of Massacliusetls, leltem from members of the Box Family residing in England, etc.] In 1284 Martin Box was Sheriff of London, ;ui(l in IL'T;") Henry 15oxe, probably the Sir Henry de Boxe, Knight, who is mentioned in tlie roll of arms, temp. Ed. II, published in Palgrave's Parliamentary Writs, amongst the Knights of Sussex and Surrey, as bearing <'0r, a bend arg. between six lioncels gules." Sir William Box was Lord Mayor of London time of Eliz- abeth, and a pedigree of the family is in "Visitation of London, loGS." The family would seem to derive its name from the manor of Box or Boxbury in Stevenage, County of Herts, where William de Boxe, in IIGG, held two and a quarter Knights' fees of Ilobert de Valoigns (Clutterbuck's, Herts II, 295). Multitudes of Box Family records are in print. We select a few : The Visitation of London, 1568. [Vol. I, p. 10.] Boxe. Arms azure. A lion passant argent between three griffins' heads erased or, William Boxe Esq. Alderman of London = Anne daur of Henry Philipps of London, haber- dasher. Children : Wm. Boxe, sonne & hey re. Edw. Boxe 2 sonne Thos. Box 3 sonne Martha m. to Eobt Fourth alias Ford. Book of Family Chests. Vol. 2. The Family Crest of Box is a demi-griffin, or winged arg. holding between the claws a fire ball — a demi-griffin, or winged arg, the first feather gold, holding between the claws a fire ball , , . , «• i — an arm couped at the elbow lying jesswise, habited qu. cuffed ar. holding in the hand ppr. a branch of box vert, and at the elbow another branch. Note. The griffin and (ire ball was the crest of the English relatives of John Box of Boston. 282 APPENDIX X. Box Coat of Arms. Single Coat. A dove with cross in its bill is the crest. (See " Visitation of London.") Abstract of Will of ^Mary Hankenson, Widow, OF London, England. Proved Sept. 1640. To her two sons John & Anthony Box and their two wives Anne & Joane Box and children of son John Box, viz*. Hester, Anne, Mary & Elizabeth Box, grandchild Nathaniel Box and over and above to John Box in token of motherly love to him £5 more for the duty and respect he hath always shewn me and to Ann his wife my best embroidered gloves. John Box to be Executor. Elizabeth Juxon widow of Mr. Thomas Juxon late Merchant Taylor of London 1637 sister of above gives bequests to John and Anthony Box. A third sister, Lady Hester Pye, wife of Sir Walter Pye, gives in her Will, 1612, bequests to her " cousins " (nephews) John and Anto: Box. The first husband of Lady Pye was Ellis Crispe, and they had son, Sir Nicholas Crispe. (See iV. E. Hist, and Gen. Magazi7ie, 1899.) Note. There is little doubt that John Box of Boston was grandson of the above mentioned John Box. 1272 temp. Edw. I. Martin Boxe and Henry Boxe were witnesses to the Grant of Richard, son of Richard de Exemue, formerly citizen of London, to John de Cantuar. Bnr*^ Oct. 12, 1614, Clares wife of Robert Boxe the Keeper of Hide Park." (Kensington Parish Reg.) Visitation of Oxford. [P. 319.] John Hampshire, Harbinger and gent, of the Leech to I. Eliz to Joane •daur. of Phillip Box of AVitney whose wife was Dorothy Payne. Their son Thomas Box m. Elizabeth Rankell. Harleian Manuscripts. London. Sir Ralph Box, citizen and mercer. Master of that company Knighted at Whitehall, 25 Octo. 1689. Pennsylvania Family of Box. Mr. William Williams Box, a lawyer in London, and whose address is 46 Lambolle Road, Belsize Park, N.W., London, England, has sent us the history of the Box Family of Cornwall, a maritime county of the southwest of England. There appear to be two branches of the Box family, one which took its name from the Manor of Box or Boxbury in Stevenage, Co. Herts, in 1166, and the other settled in Cornwall and was descended from the German Bockse. APPENDIX X. 283 Mr. W. W. Box writes as follows : " From enquiries made at the Herald's office some years a^o, we con- jectured that we were of (ferman ori<,an, fur tliis reason : It aiTpcars that three German brothers came over and settled in Enf,'land between .'JOO and 400 years ago — one of them, it is believed, settled in Cornwall. Tliere is a crest, but we never use it. The Device is a Griffin ram])ant and holdintr a ball of fire." This is the crest common to all the Box Families in England, and the one claimed by John Box of Boston, ropemaker, as belonging to his family in England. William Box of Cornwall, b. about 1750, m. a ]\Iiss Tape. They lived near Marham Church, Cornwall. His son, Daniel Box, m. Sarah Bider. He d. 1850. Daniel Box came to America in 1850 and settled in I'enn- sylvania; his son William at Bethany, Pa., son John IJox at Holmesdale, Pa., Thomas at Middle Valley, Pa., Henry William Box at I'.utTalo, N.Y. (a lawyer), Alfred Box of White Mills, Pa., and Samuel Box of Bethany, Pa. Mr. Henry W. Box of Buffalo, IST.Y., wrote us of a remarkable coinci- dence that had occurred in his experience : ''After Mr. Fillmore was President he went abroad, I think in 1858, and while in London he purchased Maurice's 'Indian Antiquities ' (East India) in seven volumes. ]\Ir. Fillmoi-e lived in our city, and I belonged to one or two societies where he was a member; however, no mention was made of the purchase of these books. He died and his library went to his son, Powers Fillmore, and in course of time Powers Fillmore died and the library was sold at auction. Without seeing the books I purchased Mau- rice's ' Indian Antiquities,' and when I opened the book I discovered by the book mark that at some time they were owned by my ancestor, John M. Box. The book mark had our crest, coat of arms and motto, namely, ' Sine metu.'* The books were nearly 100 years old, and I confess it was gratify- ing to know that some of my name were reading at that time."t Box Records — Revolutionary Soldiers. Benjamin Box, Falmouth, Cumberland Co., enlisted in Continental Army. Caleb Box, Bridgewater, Private in Capt. Danl. Lothrop's Co., Col. John Barton's Regt., Aug. 1, 1775. Enlisted, May 3, 1775; served 3 mo. 6 d. * Sine metu — Without Fear. t Mr. William W. Box has sent us two handsomely arranged genealogical sheets containing all the descendants of William Box and Pape since 1750. A copy of these records will be deposited with the X. E. Historical-Genealogical Society, Somerset Street, Boston, Mass. 284 APPENDIX X. Caleb Box, return of Men enlisted, into Continental Army from Capt. Abram Washburn's Co., 3d Plymontli County Kegt., dated Feb. 1, 1778^ residence Bridgewater, aged 20, joined Capt. Cooper's (also given Capt. Wadswortli and Capt. John Peters) Company, Col. Michael Jackson's Regt. Enlistment for 3 yrs. Caleb Box, Bridgewater, Private, Capt. Noah Allen's Co., Col. Calvin Smith, late Wigglesworth's Regt. Continental Army per accts. for service from Mar. 27, 1777, to Mar. 3, 1778. Reported died Mar. 3, 1778, also muster roll for March, 1778, dated Valley Forge. Enlistment for 3 years. Enoch Box, Falmouth. List of men enlisted into Continental Army for Cumberland Co., year not given. Enlisted for town of Falmouth. Joseph Box, Lexington. List of men enlisted into Continental Army for town of Lexington, year not given. Box Family in Virginia. Ann Box in ship "Prosperous" for Virginia, David Fogg Capt., May G, 1679. John Box for Virginia in ship " True Love," aged 23 years, in 1<322. John Box, one of the Corporators of Elizabeth City, had one hundred acres by patent. Box of Chaplain's Choise in Muster of Inhabitants of Charles Cittie & the Trudores Co. taken Jan. 21. 1624. Box Family in Boston — jNIakriages. Feb. 1, 1745. Saml. Richardson and Elizabeth Box. Mar. 11, 1764. Rich : Shillings and Mary Box. Oct. 1788. Rich : Skillings and Sally Box (perhaps widow). In 1790 Richard Skillings, Blockmaker, lived in Boston with 5 males and 3 females in family. The Canadian Family of Box is nearly related to the Pennsylvania Box Family. Samuel Box, son of Thomas and Eliza (Burroughs) Box, b. 1750 at Marham Church, England, settled near Toronto, Can. He m. first, Charlotte Hockaday ; second, Kate Vinning. Had George, Muriel, Emily, Charles, Philip, Albert and Annis. The daughter of Philip and Jane (Lord) Box was Annie Eliza Box, b. Jan. 8, 1842 ; m. David Choate, a descendant of John Choate of Wenham, Mass, and lived at Ingersoll, Can. APPENDIX KI A:sI) XII. 285 APPENDIX XI. Brinsdon Family in America. John Brinsdon^ was b. 1820 at Powderliain, near the city of Kxmouth, Devonshire, England, and emigrated to the United States and d. in 1S72 at Columbus, S. C. He was a civil engineer, lie had a son, Edward West Brinsdon-, who was b. in New York State in 1844 and is at present living in Kansas City, Mo. ; also a daughter, Maud A. r.rinsdon"'^, who res. in New York City. H. H. Brinsdon^ is the son of Edward W. Brinsdon^ and with wife, Mabel, res. in Kansas City, Mo. He is a "merchandise broker" and lias a family, a son born Jan. 25, 1899, and perhaps others. This family have undoubtedly the same English origin as the P.ronsdons. APPENDIX XII. Hoskins (See p. 224). From Nuremburg, Germany, says Admiral Sir Anthony Hoskins of London, came to England an Earl named Hoskins who became the founder of the English family. In Nuremburg to-day the name is borne by persons of distinction. This name has been and now is spelled in various ways, as Hoskyns, Hosken, Hosking, Hauskins, Hoaskins, Horskins, Hoskines, Hos- kin, Hoskyn, Huskings and Haskins. The arms of the different branches vary but little, the shield bearing a chevron engrailed, or between three lions rampant argent. Sir John Hos- kins' arms differ from Sir William's, in that the shield is surmounted by a helmet, both being placed upon the palmer's scallop shell. The crest of tlie Herefordshire branch is a ducal coronet, from which rises a lion's head with flames of fire issuing from its month. The crest belonging to the other branches is a cock's head, erased or pellethe, beaked, combed and wattled gules between two wings extended. The motto is " J'irtiite non verbis.''^ As nearly as can be discovered by researches made upon this side of the water, the homes of the different branches of the family seem to have been in the counties of Surrey, Dorset, and Herefordshire, also in London. Among them are found "all sorts and conditions of men," from Knights of high degree to poor old Thomas Hoskins, who in 1710, was buried from the London Workhouse. Land owners of large estates. 286 APPENDIX XII. husbandmen, lawyers, clergymen, merchants, admirals and captains, both in military and merchant service, are found as we look through the pages that give glimpses of the family history. Two, at least, were knighted for dis- tinguished legal service, of whom. Sir John, grandson of Judge Hoskins, was the most noted. Granger's Biographical History of England, thus speaks of him : ''He was well known as a Master in Chancery, was skilled in the knowledge and practice of that Court, and deservedly esteemed for his invincible integrity in the discharge of his office. He was much better known, however, to the world, as a philosopher, than a lawyer, especially in the latter part of his life, when he devoted the greater part of his time to experiments. He was much admired for his general knowledge, and his ease, and openess in the communication of it. There was nothing at all promising in his appearance, for he was hard-favored, affected plainness in his garb, walked the streets with a cudgel in his hand, and an old hat over his eyes. He was often observed to be in a reverie, but when his spirits were elevated over a bottle, he was remarkable for his presence of mind and quickness of apprehension, and became the agreeable and instruc- tive companion. He was president of the Royal Society in 1682." This, in all probability, was the Sir John Hoskins of Harewood, Here- fordshire, to whom, in the reign of William and Mary, was granted " all those islands called Ascension, Trinidad, and Martin Vaz, to him, his heirs and assigns forever, yielding and paying the fourth part of the profits of all monies of gold and silver weight in the said islands, on the fifth of November yearly, to be holden of the Manor of East Greenwich in socage,, and not in capite, nor by Knight's service." Sir Edmund Hoskins, a lawyer of note and Sergeant-at-Law, was Knighted in 1660. Sir William Hoskins, Knight, was heir to the three sons of Sir Edmund,, they all dying without issue. The Herefordshire branch of the family, which traces itself back to that of Dorset, 1630, is now represented by the Rev. Sir John Hoskyns, Rector of Ashton Tywold, and his brother, Admiral Sir Anthony H. Hos- kins, of Montague Square, London. The names of Thomas, William, John, Charles, Henry, Joseph, Richard,. Anthony, Mary, Elizabeth, Catherine, and Susanna are found in all the branches of the family, from the earliest to the present day. Not satisfied with coming to England from Germany, members of the family were among the first emigrants to the New World. In 1623, Nicholas Hoskins was living in Elizabeth City, Virginia. 1630, John Hoskins, founder of the Connecticut branch, came to Dorchester, Mass. 1645, William Hoskins, who had settled in Scituate, Mass., moved to Plymouth, Mass. 1670, Robert and Katherine Hoskins went to the Barbadoes. The- Al'l'KNDlX XII. 2S' same year finds Thomas Hoskins in North Carolina, and befort- 17(i(), a Dr. and Rev. Richard Hoskins settled in the Province of Pennsylvania. Scarcely a State in the Union but is the hnnie of some branch of tlic family. (1) Chkistoimikh JToskins'. (1) Christopher HosKiNs\ b. , ; d. , . Inten- tions of marriage of Christopher Hoskins, Mariner, to Snsanna Mcllins were published in Poston, Apr. (5, 1727, 0. S. Susanna Mellins was b. Jan. L'L', 1704; bapt. Old South, Jan. 28, 1705 ; d. , . CJi Udren : ( 2) i. Christojj/icr Jfoskiiis-, Jr., bapt. Jan. 2S. 1727; d. Dec 12, 17fi'.>, at sea. ( 3) ii. Susanna Hoskins-, bapt. Mar. 15, 1730; d. Sept., 175)0, in Bo.ston. ( 4) iii. Thomas Bosk his-, bapt. Dec. 12. 1731. ( 5) iv. Elizabeth Hoskins'-, bapt. Jan. G, 1734. ( 6) V. WiUiavi Hoskins-, bapt. Jan. 4. 173G; d. May 30, 178('), in Boston. ( 7) vi. He7inj Hoskins^, bapt. Mar. 2, 1738 ; d. Sept. 30, 1807, Wilming- ton, N. C. ( 8) vii. Mar// Hoskins'-, bapt. jMar. 20, 1730. ( 9) viii. Benjamin Hoskins"^, bapt. Apr. 4, 1742; d. Sept., 1705. (10) ix. Ruth Hoskins-, bapt. May 6, 1743. Biography. Christopher Hoskins\ antecedents as yet unknown, first appears on the Boston Records in 1724, when as a stranger, he is warned to leave the town. This he was not obliged to do, for in 1727, his intentions of marriage are published in Boston. The marriage must have been very shortly after the publishment, as the date of the birth of the first child is in that year. It is presumed that he came from England to Boston, for in a letter written in 1772, by his son William, to a Mrs. Pavey, Plymouth Dock, England, he gives an account of the death by drowning, of her son, who had married a daughter of Christopher Hoskins; he asks her, "if old Mrs. Burgess is liv- ing, who kept an inn at Woolwich, or any of the family, as she was only sister to my father." Of his nine children, the lineage of but four can be traced, and two of those but imperfectly — that of Christopher, Jr., and Susanna. William and Henry have but few breaks in their lines up to this twentieth century. Of Thomas, we have the record of his intentions of marriage to Abigail Dosson of lioston, dated June 24, 1750. Of Mary, her intentions of marriage with Thomas Turner, jjublished June 30, 1700. Of Benjamin, the knowledge from the Boston Records, that in June, 1753, he was one of eighty-six scholars who attended ''a Publick School for Writing and Arithmetic," under the care and education of Samuel Holyoke, master. In the Records of the Probate Court, we find that on 288 APPENDIX XII. October 4, 1765, a letter of administration is granted to Susanna Hoskins, in account of Benjamin Hoskins, mariner. Of Ruth, that at 23 years she was unmarried. She is given as spin- ster in a list of passengers on the sloop "Brittainia" from Nantucket. Which sister was the wife of young Pavey is not known. Neither can the date of the death of Christopher Hoskins be found, probably about 1745, as we find his wife Susanna keeping a shop on Hanover Street at that time. That she was living as late as 1772 is proved by a letter from her son William to his brother Henry. It is earnestly hoped that some member of the family may be able to discover the missing data. (3) Christopher Hoskins"'^ (Christopher^). (2) Christopher Hoskins-, Jr., bapt. Old South, Jan. 28, 1727, 0. S. ; d. Dec. 12, 1769 ; m. in New North, May 17, 1753, Katherine Millins, bapt. New North, Jan. 6, 1733 ; d. Jan. 5, 1769. Children : (11) i. Katherine Hoskins^, b. , ; d. , . (12) ii. Susanna Hoskins^, bapt. New Brick, Mar. 1, 1762 ; d. Apr. 17, 1796, Boston. Biography. Christopher Hoskins^, Jr., inheriting from his father the fondness for the sea, chose to spend the better part of his life upon it, and before the age of 26 had risen to the position of Captain in the employ of his brother William, the merchant and ship-builder. At the age of 26 he married the daughter of Capt. William and Katherine Lamsdell Millins, a lovely girl of 21 years. Two daughters were born to them. After sixteen years of married happiness the husband and wife died in the same year, Mrs. Hoskins in January and the Captain in the following December. Tlte Boston News Letter of Mar. 29, 1770, gives the manner of his death: "We hear from Essequibo that Capt. Christopher' Hoskins of the schooner ' Fortesque and Jane ' of this town, together with three other persons, namely a passenger, a seaman and a negro, were drowned in the night of the 12*'^ of December last, occasioned by a sudden squall." The young wife was laid to rest in Copp's Hill Burying Ground, where her grave can still be found, and upon the stone at its head is the following inscription : "//ere lies the Body of Mrs. Katherine Hoskins wife of Capt. Christopher Hoskins died Jan'!' S'" 1769 aged 34 years'" APPENDIX XII. 2H0 . After the death of his wife, Capt. Christoplier was appoiiitfd liy the Probate Court " Guardian to Katherine Hoskins, a miiHir uihI.m- M years and grand-daughter of William Millins, late of Boston, Mariner, deceased. Also of his minor child Susanna. "William Hoskins, Joseph Carnes, 'Gentleman,' both of said town, became bound with said Christopher." Date, July L'l, KC.l). On March 20, 1770, " William Hoskins of Uoston, :Merchant, was admitted Administrator of the Estate of Christopher Hoskins, late of said Uoston, Mariner, deceased, intestate. Caleb Hopkins, Merchant, John Greenleaf, 'Taylor.' Both of Boston." At this time "Christopher's two poor orplian children" were cared for by their Uncle William Hoskins. Previous to tliis time and after their mother's death, while their father was absent at sea, they were under the care of Dr. Elisha Story of Boston, as the following copy of a memorandum of his discloses: " Capt. Christopher Hoskins chil- dren sent to school to Mrs. Stephens, on Monday, 24"' April, 1761). Paid for 13 weeks schooling at 8/, £5 4*." Of Katherine, the elder daughter, it is presumed that the following notice of Intentions of Marriage is hers: " Boston, June 28, 178.'J. dolin Snelling and Katherine Hoskins." Susanna, the younger sister, was bapt. in the New Brick, ^[ar. 1, 1702; d. in Boston, Apr. 17, 179G; m. Ebenezer Hemnienway, bapt. Old South, Apr. 5, 1741. She was buried in Copp's Hill Burying (Jround, and her gx'avestone is inscribed : " la Memory of 3Irs. Susanna Hemnienway wife of Mr. Ebenezer Ilemmemoay & younriest daughter of Capt. CJn-istop/icr Ilnsh-ins. She departed this life April 17, 1796, In the 34"' year of her ar/e. Here rest the dead, from pain and sorroic free • She^s gone to heaven, God, to rest with thee ; Her bright example may we make our own As far as she in Christ and God was Arnoion." (3) SUSANXA HOSKINS- (CHRrSTOPIIER^). (3) Susanna Hoskins-, bapt. Old South, Mar. 15, 1730; d. Sept., 170G, in Boston ; m. first, William Hopkins, Aug. 10, 1749, by Rev. Joseph Sewall ; second, James Scollay, Aug. 29, 1751, bapt. New Brick, :Mar. 2. 172S, .1. ; third, Joseph Carnes, 1765, bapt. New North, Nov. 26, 1733, d. . Children : (13) i. Susanna^ Scollay, bapt. King's Chapel, Aug. 31, 1752 ; (h (14) ii. John^ Scollay, bapt. Old South, May 5, 1754 ; d. Nov. 17. 1763. 19 290 APPENDIX XII. (13) Susanna^ Scollat (Susanna^, Christopher^). She m. first, Oct., 1769, Thomas Osborne, by Rev. Saml. Stillman ; second, Oct. 5, 1793, Samuel Cookson (Major). Children (by first marriage) : (15) i. Joh7i Scollcn/* Osborne. (16) ii. David* Osborne. (17) iii. Susanna* Osborne. (By second marriage) : (18) iv. Samuel* Cookson. (14) JoHN^ Scollat (Susanna^, Christopher^). Baptized in Old South Church, Boston, May 5, 1754 ; was the only son of James and Susanna (Hoskins) Scollay. His epitaph at Copp's Hill Burying Ground is as follows : " Stop O youth and kindly drop a tear, A youth once gay like you, lies buried here! Here lies the Remains of John Schollay Son of James Schollay and Susanna Jiis wife who died ye 17"' Nov. 1763 aged 10 years. His hody''s here, his soul to heaven is gone There to receive from God its righteous doom.'''' Biography. Susanna Hoskins^, eldest daughter of Christopher and Susanna (Mellins) Hoskins, was baptized at the Old South Meeting House, March 15, 1730. At the age of 19 she married William Hopkins, who died the following year. According to the custom of the time, she did not long remain a widow, and in 1751, Aug. 27th, she married James Scollay (of the well known Scollay family of Boston, for whom Scollay Square was named), the son of James and Mary (Smith) Scollay. They had two children, Susanna and John, the latter dying in boyhood. Susanna^ was twice married, first to Thomas Osborne of , N. H., second to Samuel Cookson of Boston. After the second marriage, the children of the first marriage were taken by their grandmother. Mrs. Susanna (Hoskins) Hopkins, Scollay, Carnes, was a very capable and ambitious woman. After the death of her second hvisband, with her brother William's assistance, she established herself in business and kept a large shop, dealing in all sorts of commodities. This she sold out at the time of her third marriage, but when once more left a widow, she APPENDIX Xll. 291 again went into business and continued until lier death. Slic loft a greater amount of property than any other of lier brotliers or sisters, including a three-story brick liouse on iranover Street, corner of Marshall's Lane. She died in her home, Sept., 179(5. The following is the announcement of her death sent to lier brother, Henry Hoskins, by her nepliow, Kichard Quince Hoskins : ^'Dear Ihu-Ie : Death, that king of terrors, having pierced with his fatal shaft the lieart of my dear Aunt Canies, on Fryday last at k past .'! O'clock 1'. M. and interr'd on Sunday at 5 P.M. I want to pay my lust duties to my deceased Aunt, but who can describe the torrent of sorrow whidi over- whelmed my breast on my arrival at the house of mourning ! My Aunt was mortihed & bore her i)aius witlu Christian fortitude but is now gone to the Valley of the Shadow of Death." The Will of Susanna (Hoskins) Carnes is dated Apr. 29, 1794, and was witnessed by Sanil. Cooper, Elizabeth Kaymar and Anne llaymer. John Hoskins and John Osborne, merchants, were appointed executors, and the bulk of the property was bequeathed to grand-children, David and Susanna Osborne and John Scollay Osborne of Epsom, N. H. The Will was probated Oct. 11, 179G. The Inventory amounted to $9048. Gl, aiul included a brii-k three-story mansion on Hanover Street, corner of Marshall's Lane, Boston. (6) William Hoskins- (Chkistophek^). [See also (B 7) Box Family.] (6) William Hoskins'-, bapt. Old South, Jan. 4, 173G ; d. May 30, 17SG ; m. June 12, 17G4, Lydia Box, bapt. Apr. 24, 1745, d. Oct., 1814. Children : (19) i. John Hoskins^, bapt. King's Chapel, Apr. 17. KG.'; bur. King's Chapel, INIay .31, 17Go. (20) ii. WdlUtni Hoskins^, bapt. King's Chapel, July 22, 17GG; d. in Cuba, 1824. (21) iii. John Box Hoskins^, bapt. King's Chapel, Dec. 14, 17G8; d. in Isle of France before 1831. (22) iv. Richard Quince JJoskins^, b. JNIar. 17, 1770; d. in Boston, July 12, 1825. (23) V. Lydia Hoskins^, bapt. King's Chapel, Nov. 20, 1771 ; d. in I'.oston, Apr., 1790. (24) vi. Hannah Hoskins^. (25) vii. Henry Hoskins', bapt. King's Chapel, Aug. 1, 1773; bur. King's Chapel, Jan. 29, 1774. (26) viii. Susanna Hoskins', bapt. King's Chapel, Nov. 25, 177 I. (27) ix. Henry Hoskins', b. 177G ; d. Wiscasset, :Me., Feb., 1804. (28) X. Charlotte Hoskins'. 292 APPENDIX xir. (29) xi. Susanna Hoskins^, bapt. King's Chapel, Jan. 8, 1778 ; d. Dedliam, Mass., Dec. 18, 1863. (30) xii. Charles Chauncey Hoskins^, bapt. First Church, Nov. 7, 1779 ; d. Newport, E. I., June 13, 1813. (31) xiii. Naneij Hosklns^, bapt. First Church, June 23, 1782 ; bur. Sept. 20; 1783. (32) xiv. Thomas Bulfinch Hoskins^, bapt. Second Church, Aug. 7, 1785 ; bur. King's Chapel, May 3, 1791. The descendants of these children will be found in the history of Mrs. Lydia (Box) Hoskins — (B 7) Part II, Box Family, p. 224. Biography. William^ Hoskins, tlie fifth child and third son of Christopher^ and Susanna (Mellins) Hoskins, was born in Boston in Dec, 1735, and baptized in the Old South Meeting House, Jan. 4, 1736. Nothing is yet known of his life until his 26th year, when he formed a partnership with Joseph Wheelwright, a youth not twenty-one, brother of Nathaniel Wheelwright, one of Boston's early merchants, and it is surmised that William Hoskins was in his employ in some capacity before that time, as in the letters pre- served by the family he often speaks of Mr. Wheelwright as his " Dear Benefactor " and " Paternal Friend." This young firm entered at once into a large business embracing importations of general commodities, ship- building and ownership. They had correspondents in many ports this side the water, and also in England and the many islands where Massachusetts merchants traded. In England, among other firms was that of Priestly & Co., which exists at the present day. The extent of their business can be inferred from the number of Captains they employed, which amounted to nearly one hundred, the greater part of them sailing the vessels OAvned by Wm. Hoskins & Co. In 1762 they entered into the " slave trade," doing a large business in it ; but few of the slaves were brought to Boston, however. One of the slave ships was "named the Durnell in honor of an African King," which they '' thought would be very taking." Later they established a distillery for rum to be used in this nefarious business. It is difficult to realize that a man who, in every other walk of life, was the soul of honor and integrity, could justify to himself this traffic in human souls. In 1763, that " year of plenty," they erected a sugar house ; their business also pros- pered in every direction. This we glean from the Letter Books which are in the possession of a descendant of William Hoskins. In 1764 William Hoskins & Co. had its share in the making of the nation's history, in the seizure by the Port Officer, Capt. Thomas Bishop, of a brigantine owned by the firm. The vessel was bound from Bordeaux to St. Eustasia, having a cargo of wine for the latter port, and came into Boston for water and repairs, having a "Letter of Liberty " giving permission for the vessel to remain in APPENDIX XII. 298 port for three days. The case was bmu-ht bcloro Lliu Court of Admiralty, which condemned her of intention to land her carj^o in IJoston. Tlio tirni appealed and the case was sent to England for trial. Unfortunately the result of that trial is not reported in the books of the firm. The following is an extract from a letter to Messrs. Devonshire ik Reeve of Bristol, Eug,, in regard to this seizure : "This Condemnation astonishes ever^ gentleman of any judgement so great a piece of Injustice cant be paraleld, if Traced a Century kick. Its very unhappy for us so great a power of either Condcm'g or Ac(juit'g Should be reposed in one man, the Advantages arising from a Condemnation is enough to stagger the most Impartial Understanding. This Capt. IJishop is 'Sovereign of the Port,' the 'Devil of the Harbour' and unless we have some redress from home or this Gentleman comes to better Jteason we may look upon ourselves Compleatly Undone. We beg your pardon for this troublesome Tail." To Mr. Gardner, to whom the care of the case was at first entrusted, Mr. Hoskins writes : " We wrote you 13"' <& 25**> June last Acquainting you Something of the Proceedings of our Admiralty Court Respecting the P>rig' * Free Mason ' and Cargo — the Latter attended with a State of the Case drawn up by Mr. Otis. This Encloses you another State* drawn up by Mr. Gridley, of which we shall send you triplicates. Although Mr. Otis drew up the former State' of the Case Yett he was no ways Concerned in it, but as Mr. (Jriilley being Absent Att that Juncture, when the Opp'y Offered we were Obliged to Apply to him. He was only a Spectator at the Trial, the Injustice of which appear'd so strong and clear to him Occasional his Immediately writing, Long before we Imploy'd him, the Inclos'd, 'A Defence of the Rights of the British Colonies,' wherein he several times Reflects upon the Admiralty Court and particularly with ResjJect to this Cause." This Mr. Gardner refused to take charge of the case, and it was given into the hands of Mr. Thomas Boylston. From that time forth we know the noble work of this James Otis in the cause of liberty. This trouble in regard to the seizing of the vessels, together with the epidemic of small pox which so violently raged that year, affected all branches of trade, William Hoskins writing another of his correspondents "That the Stagnation of Business makes so deep Impression upon People as to Cloud the Mind and droop the Countenance, for my Part I coii'd almost wish the Night's where as Long here as one reported to be in Some part of Greenland, that I might slumber away what my ej^es are Obliged to Behold Daily.'' Despite his gloomy forebodings, this year 1704 was a most prosperous one for the firm. 1765 was the year of business panics, and failures were on every hand. Nathaniel Wheelwright & Co. " Shutt Up,'' and that led creditors to attach the property of William Hoskins cS: Co., althougli they 294 APPENDIX XII. were in no way connected in their business. William Hoskins thus wrote : " This Proceed'g Render'd us Unable to Discharge our own Engagements and Obliged us to Close our Doors. You may rely upon it no person shall Suffer or Loffe a farthen by us, especially those who have been so kind as to favour us with Consignments." This failure was a great blow and every- thing was sacrificed to pay the debts of the firm, which was then dissolved. William Hoskins, until the Revolution, was in a commission business, nearly all of his former correspondents offering assistance. His spirit of revolt was stirred so deeply at the time of the seizure of his vessel that he became an earnest upholder of the rights of the people, and was one of the first to join the secret societies that were everywhere being formed by the lovers of right and justice. In writing of the Stamp Act, he called it "An Act to Cramp and Ruin Trade." He was an ardent Son of Liberty, a member of the famous North End Caucus, and one of the founders of St. Andrew's Lodge, which held its meetings in " that hot-bed of the Revolution," the Green Dragon Tavern. It is supposed he was a member of the Tea Party, as he belonged to that Lodge in whose records was written, under date of Dec. 16, 1773, " The Lodge met but adjourned, on account of the fewness of the members," and under this record was the following in a bold hand : " Consignee's of tea took up the Brethern's time." The next month, in writing Ralph Carr, Esq., he says: "I have nothing new to communicate more than what the Prints affords, the Fate of the East India Company's Tea, in the Several Provinces & a Probability of an Union of the Colony's, which. If suceeds Great Britain in her Commerce may feel a Shock not soon Recoverable." His letters overflow with patriotism, and only want of space prevents their insertion in this biography. At the tinie of the enforcing of the Port Bill he was seriously ill and confined to his house ; nevertheless, he arranged for the building of a ship, to employ the builders, blacksmiths and others who were great sufferers by their enforced idleness. He had a tender, generous heart, and we find many items in the Letter Books where he forgave poor debtors ; one in particular, when, one of his Captains dying in his debt for a large sum, he declined to have it collected, in order " that the Poor Widow and Children might retain the House for their Comfort." Again, he writes David Wyer of Casco Bay " not to Issue Executions against any person or persons who are unable to pay." The last letter of the Letter Book is dated Feb. 14, 1775, and is to one of his English correspondents. In it he says : " We remain steady and Cool in this Metropolis while our Fellow Sub- jects in the Inland Towns are making all the Preparations Necessary to Defend themselves against any force Great Britain may or can Send into a Bushey Country. We are Content to Deny ourselves the common Neces- sary's of Life and Sacrifice our Commerce rather than Loose our Birthrights Al'l'KNDIX XII. '211') and Entail Slavery upon even one (Jeneration. \\r li,,p.' l,y Mils a Stiitc of our Greivances are Laid before the rarliament and it Ki-,di toon sly attoiulml to Doubtless we shall soon be Keinstated in our Iti^hts and I'rivilodjrfs to the Confusion of the Cursed Pickpockets who Knyross :ill the Taxes upon the Trade of this people to Support themselves and DepiMidiuioes and Ij-hvo Nothing to be Remitted Home toward Discharging the Nati«»n:il Debt. Sudi a Set the Devil would I'.lush to own himself the i)eluder of." On the first of January, 1775, William Iloskins was at tlie Magazine in Roxbury in the service of his country, under the orders of Commissary General Joseph Trumbull, who later appointed him his Deputy. He wjvs appointed to the Commissary Department by the Committee of Safety. After the death of Gen. Trumbull. Congress appointed him Military Admin- istrator of General Affairs, and was ordered by that body " To call to account and make settlement with all persons who had been employed under the late Com'y Gen^ and prepare all the accounts of the said Com'y (Jen' remaining unsettled and lay them before the Congress for final settlement the said William Hoskins being authorized to receive and pay balances and to account. That for his services he be allowed 2^ per cent." This duty he performed to the satisfaction of Congress, which body then offered liim a "Birth in the Board of Treasury," also ''to be one of the Chamber of Accounts ; " but he preferred returning to Boston. He felt, however, that the remuneration for his arduous labor was not sufiicient, and memorialized Congress to that effect, but to no avail. Congress refusing to comply with his request. In 1779 he returned to Boston and to his family, and while doing a commission business, he was actively engaged in the service of his country in many ways. He was a staunch upholder of paper money, although a large loser thereby ; but it seemed to him best that the Government should be supported, in ]:)reference to private individuals' w'elfare. He was one of the Committee of Thirteen to see that extortion should not be practised upon the people — these were appointed by the Congress held at Concord, July 14, 1779 ; one of a Committee to see that " the lands at West Boston were improved for the raising of vegitables ; " one of a Committee to pub- lish the name in the newspapers of those who took advantage of their poorer townsmen ; one of a Committee to prepare a list of 20 persons to be stationed at the Fortifications and Charlest'n Ferry to prevent l"'sons going out of town to purchase Provisions, and on many other Committees of like nature looking to the welfare of the people. When John Hancock returned to Boston he sent William Hoskins to England on confidential business, placing the greatest confidence in his business abilities and his integrity. We have mentioned his association with the patriotic St. Andrew's Lodge. That was but one of his connections with the Masonic Fraternity, of which he M^as an active and earnest member. For nine years, 1772-17S1, he was Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge, and nearly all the records for 296 APPENDIX XII. those years are in his bold and clear handwriting. He served in many- offices and on many committees, particularly upon those that arranged for the wonderful •' feasts " held by that body, which were feasts indeed, like those of the Romans of old. He also served with the Committee for Form- ing Rules and Regulations for the Government of the Grand Lodge. To know a man, it is said you must seek his friends. Those most dear to this man were Gen. Joseph Warren, James Otis, Paul Revere, Samuel Barrett, Perez Morton, Joseph Webb, Benjamin Austin, the son of his father-in-law's partner, and many others bearing the stamp of true manhood. This is but a cursory life of a man of whom volumes could be written, but it is hoped that it serves to show his nobility of character, formed upon those right principles which caused him to scorn all that was mean and unworthy and made him unfailingly loyal to all that was good and true, breeding in him a deep reverence for all things holy. With such strong feelings, it was but natural that he should be " pretty flustery," as he expressed it ; but that was temperamental and to be expected from one so keen to feel both joy and sorrow. With justice and honesty for his life's motto, no duty was too slight for him to undertake, and whatsoever his hand found to do he did it with all his might. (7) Hexry Hoskins^ (Christopher^). (7) Henry Hoskins^, b. Feb. 11, 1738 ; bapt. Old South, Mar. 2, 1739; d. Sept. 30, 1807, in Wilmington, North Carolina; m. first, Oct. 29, 1772, Ann Hawes of Dorchester, by Rev. Jonathan Bowman ; second, Margaret , who d. ]Mar. 3, 1792 ; third, Jan. 12, 1794, Ann Miller, b. June 17, 1765, d. Aug. 22, 1841. Children — by first marriage : (86) i. Ann Hoskins^, b. Dec. 4, 1774. (87) ii. Henrt/ Thomas Orton Hoskins^, b. Feb. 12, 1776. (88) iii. Ann Hoskins^, b. Oct., 1777. (89) iv. Hennj Hoskins^, h. Aug. 17, 1780 ; d. Jan. 12, 1802, at sea. (90) V. Susanna Hosklns^, b. Feb. 28, 1782. (91) vi. WilUam Hoskins% b. Nov. 11, 1784. By second marriage : (92) vii. Ifuffh Catnjibell Hoskins^, b. Mar. 9, 1789. (93) viii. Ann Hoskiiis^, b. Feb. 11, 1792. By third marriage : (94) ix. Margaret Hosktns^, b. Oct. 14, 1794 ; d. May 13, 1796. (95) X. William John Hoskins^, b. July 16, 1796; d. Apr. 23, 1797. (96) xi. Benjamin Lowder Hoskins^, b.'^ Feb. 11, 1798 ; d. Nov. 26, 1859. (97) xii. Elizabeth Jane Hoskins^, b. Mar. 16, 1801 ; d. Oct. 31, 1801. (98) xiii. Hennj Richard Hoskins^, b. Dec. 5, 1803 ; d. June 16, 1804. AITENDIX XII. -Jit; Biography. Henry IToskins^ was the fourth son and sixtli child of Christoidier and Susanna (Mellins) Hoskins. He received his education in the ruhlic. Schools of Boston, and, in the twenty-ninth report of the Record Conmiissioner, liis name is on a list of eiglity-six scholars who belonged to a Publick Scliool, June 29, 1753, for Writing and Arithmetic, under the care and education of Samuel Holyoke, Master. At the age of 24, Henry Hoskins commanded one of the vessels of his brother William, and sailed for the liini of ^Villianl Hoskins & Co. until 1766-7, when he entered the employ of Richard Quince & Co. of Cape Fear (now Wilmington), N. C, sailing their vessels for many years. Tlie affec- tion between William and Henry seems to have been very tender, William often acting a fatherly part toward his younger brother. In 1771 William Hoskins, in writing his friend, Richard Quince, begs him "to oblige him with a sight of his only brother." The latter part of Sept., 1772, found Capt. Henry again in Boston, and on Oct. 29, 1772, he married Miss Ann Hawes of Dorchester. She remained in Dorchester for a time, as William wrote to Henry, Dec. 14, 1772 : "I Heard your wife with her Aunt was in Town the Other Day, and that she was well." Their first son and second child was born on the brig " Orton," Feb. 12, 1776, then lying in the Cape Fear River. By this we infer that Mrs. Hoskins was her husband's companion upon some of his voyages. Six children were born to them, the first two dying young. The fourth child and second Henry " turned to the sea," and was the only one who lived beyond early youth, being 22, when returning home as supercargo, the vessel was wrecked in coming over the bar at New Inlet, and he was drowned. His body was washed up on the beach and he was buried in the old church yard of Wilmington. He died unmarried. The surname of Henry's second wife, Margaret, is unknown. Their son, Hugh Campbell, died in childhood. The daughter, Ann, married William Taylor of Mobile, Ala., dying when her children were very young. On January 12, 1794, Henry Hoskins married his third wife, Ann, daughter of Richard and Eleanor Miller oi Wilmington, by whom he had five children. Mrs. Hoskins survived her husband 34 years. The latter years of Capt. Hoskins' life were spent in Wilmington. He was an Inspector of Lumber. He died Sept. 30, 1807, outliving, it is thought, his brothers and sisters. In the possession of Miss Harriet Minot Jones of Norfolk, Va., is a prayer-book, bearing on its cover the name of the third wife of Capt. Henry Hoskins. It is so large and heavy that the dainty hands of ^Madam Ann Hoskins were not able to carry it to church, and her servant always walked behind her when she attended divine service, carrying the precious volume. It is now one hundred and twelve years old, and a valued inheritance to its present possessor. 298 APPENDIX XII. (93) Ann Hoskins^ (Henky-, Christopher^). (93) Ann Hoskins^, b. Feb. 11, 1792 ; m. William Taylor of Mobile, Alabama. Children : ( 99) i. William Henry* Taylor, m. Mary Jane Sullivan; he d. 1888. (100) ii. Margaret'^ Taylor, m. Frederic Sullivan and had : (101) i. Sarah Ann^ Sullivan, m. Willis Turlington and had : (102) i. Royer S.^ Turlington. (103) ii. (9G) Benjamin L. Hoskins^ (Henry^, Christopher^). (96) Benjamin L. Hoskins^, b. Feb. 11, 1798 ; d. Nov. 26, 1859 -, m. Feb. 18, 1829, Maria Miot of Charleston, S. C, by Rev. William Capers, b. 1805, d. May 22, 1874. Children : (104) i. Henry John Hoshins\ b. Dec. 12, 1829 ; d. Sept. 2, 1834. (105) ii. Benjamin Richard Hoskins*, b. Aug. 17, 1832; d. Aug. 22, 1832. (106) iii. Harriet Ann Hoskins^ b. Oct. 12, 1833 ; d. June 18, 1883. (107) iv. William Capers Hoskins*, b. Jan. 18, 1836; d. Jan. 24, 1836. (108) V. Maria Caroliyie Hoskins'^, b. Apr. 17, 1837. (109) vi. Eliza Theresa Hoskins\ b. Apr. 30, 1839 ; d. May 29, 1840. (110) vii. Be7ijamin Hoskins*, b. Aug. 1, 1841. (Ill,) viii. Frances Eleanor Hoskins*, b. July 20, 1844; d. June 2, 1845. (106) Harriet Ann Hoskins^ (Benjamin L.^, Henry^, Christopher^). (106) Harriet Ann Hoskins", b. Oct. 12, 1833, Newbern, N. C. ; d. June 18, 1883, in Norfolk, Va. ; m. 1849, Rev. Richard H. Jones of Wilmington, N. C. (by Rev. John Paris), b. Oct. 27, 1827, Suffolk, Va. Children : (112) i. 3Ia7-ia Elizabeth^ Jones, b. Oct., 1850, Wilmington, N. C. ; d. 1851. (113) ii. Caroline Eugenia^ Jones, b. Oct., 1852, Wilmington, N. C. ; d. July 18, 1870. (114) iii. Herbert^ Jones, b. Aug., 1855, Nash Co., N. C. (115) iv. Benjamin Richard^ Jones, b. Apr. 12, 1858, Fayetteville, N. C. (116) V. Isabelle Hojfman^ Jones, b. Feb. 18, 1862,. Nash Co., N. C. (117) vi. Maria Hos'kins^ Jones, b. Oct. 10, 1864, Nash Co., N. C. ; d. June 6, 1897, Norfolk, Va. ; m. Sept. 26, 1890, J. W. Patton of Jamestown, Ohio, by Rev. 0. S. Barten, D.D., b. Aug. 8, 1862. (118) vii. Reginald Heber'' Jones, b. Mar. 18, 1866, Nash Co., N. C. ; d. .Alar. 30, 1866. APPENDIX xri. 291) (119) viii. Alexander McComb^ Jones, b. Oct. 1C>, ISC.S, Kdgeuonil), N.C (120) ix. Roheyt Lewis^ Jones, b. July 12, 1.S70, Nash Co., N. C. ; .1. .Inly 21, 1870. (121) X. Harriet Miot^ Jones, b. June 20, 1870, Nash Co., N. C. (114) Herbert^ Jones (Harriet A.^ Benjamin L.', IIk.nhv'-, Christopher^). (114) Herbert^ Joxes, b. Aug. 1, 185o j iii. lirst, Feb. ir>, ISSI, Rbstorica Woodward, at Norfolk, Va., b. 1853, Portsmouth, Va., d. Mar., 1892, Norfolk, Va. ; m. second, Alice Bray. Children — • by first marriage : (122) i. James Woodward^ Jones, b. Apr. 1, 1885. Rocky Mt., N. C. (123) ii. Herbert Hosldns^ Jones, b. Aug. 23, 1891', Oxford, N. C. (115) Ben.jamin Richard^ Joxes (Harriet A.*, Ben.iamin L.*, Henry-, Christopher^). (115) Benjamin Richari/ Jones, b. Apr. 12, 1858; m. Aug. 7, 1890, LiLLiE V. Walters of Norfolk, Va., b. Mar. 29, 18GG, in Norfolk, Va. Children : (124) \. Etujenia^ Jones, h.^o\.\?,,l^':)~\. . (125) ii. Richard'' Jones, b. May 29, 1890. 300 CORRECTIONS AND ADDITIONS. CORRECTIONS AND ADDITIONS. Parje 61. For (118), (119) and (120) the surname should be Austen. Page 73. 1st line, male should read lineal. Page 73. 3d line. Read "Mrs. Martha Eddy xoho died 1830." Page 100. (300) Elizabeth Box (Bronsdon) Loring d. 186S, and not 1768. Page 142. The wife of (282) John Box Bronsdon was Abigail. Page I46. (484) Phinehas Bronsdon, Jr., was b. in March. Page I4S. Capt. Creighton Whitmore Parker d. May 4, instead of Mar. 4. Page 200. The following record was received very late, and consequently was over- looked until too late for insertion on p. 200 : (901) Jane BronsdonS (Wm.^, Jk., Wm.*, Bant^, Benj.^, Robt.i). Jane Bronsdon was b. May 25, 1847, at Athol, Mass. : m. Nov. 23, 1863, Ches- ter Twichell, son of Ephraim and Sally (Twichell) Houghton of Winchendon. He was b. Apr. 9, 1842. Res. at Phillipston, Mass. One Child: (901o) Herbert Chester' Houghton, b. Dec. 25, 1865, at Greenfield. Obituary. Mr. Henry Mills Da}^, who married (624) Miss Sarah Vallette of Cincinnati, 0. (see p. 165), died suddenly Oct. 12, 1901, at his home, 6 East Forty-fourth St., New York City, of pneumonia. He was born at Waterbury, Conn., in 1838, and was son of the Rev. Henry Noble Day, long identified with the interests of Yale University. Mr. H. M. Day became a member of the New York Stock Exchange in 1870, and formed the firm of " Day & Heaton," one of the oldest in Wall Street. He was a member of the Union, Metropolitan, University, Union League, Riding aud other clubs and societies. Farewell Remarks. To-night, Feb. 17, 1902, the compiler lays aside her pen, her task accomplished. She began the work in June, 1897. In view of the dif- ficulties and expenses it is remarkable that any family histories are written, except by those possessed of ample means and leisure. Those who know the writer best often express astonishment that she has been able to finish the book. It has been a wonderful experience ; it is an impressive thing to become acquainted with generation after generation of a family, and to note the vicissitudes to which the different indi- viduals are subject. Which is the greater force, environment or heredity ? Some of the best years of life have been devoted to the preparation of this book, aud the writer of these lines relinquishes the work with mingled relief and regret. The End. Index of Names. (Fam. stands for family. Commas separate entire pa«:e numbers, as 101, 1()'.>, etc.. or llipy may be written 101-2.) Abbott, 190. Dortlia, Ifly. Abrains, Win., 14, 78, 96. Adams, 155, 200, 242, 280. Addington, 21, 27, 32. Agar, Lettice, 268. Alcock, Paul Grove, S3. Alden, Win., 34. Alderman Fam., 244. Aldrich, Patience, 149. Alford, Benj., 34. Allen, 18, 37, 70, 95, 284. Jere., 219. Thos. A., Fam., 100, 150, 151, 152. Allison, Andrew, Fam., 177, 178. David C, Fam., 179. David li., Fam., 180, 181. Eliza J., Fam., 181. Emmeline, Fam., 184. Frances A., 183. (ieo., Fam., 182. Henrietta W., Fam., 1S2. Henry, Fam., 183. Sarah C, Fam., 177. Amidon, J. E., 194. Andrew, Gov., 131. Anderson, Lucy A., 47. Andros, Sir Edm., 4, 5, 21, 257. Appleton, Joanna, 205. Apthorp, Chas., 21. Archambanlt, Judith, 270. Archer, Moses, 92, 94. Ardell, 22, Ares, 95. Ayers, xiii, xiv. Argyll, Duke of, 58. Armitage, Jos., 4, 8, 14. Henry, 20. Armstrong, Jno., 45. Artluir, Nicholas, 47. Atherton, Fannie J., 171, 173. Atkinson, Eliz., 183. Atwood, Deacon Jno., 27. Aiichmuty, Robt., 57, 202. Austen, P. T. Fam., 61, 300. Benj., 210, 215, 218. Austin, 51, 95, 219. Ayloffe, Rebecca, xiii. r.al)cock. I.cwis C, 87. Baker, Abigail, 100, 102, 105, 106. 125. 15.", 221, 238, 2(10, 20(i. Kdm. J., 2(!(5. Elijah, 208. Jos. K., 45. Bailey, Nancy, 44. Ball, Caroline R., 193. Ballard, 101. Jarvis, 21. Baldwin, Rev. Thos., 162. Bangs, Elisha, 62, Banirck, Susanna. 222. Banister, 70. Banks, Gen., 129. Bant, Gilb., OS, 70, 72, 74, 77, 79, 92. 96, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259. 260, 2(;2. Jno., 33. Mary, 2, 68, 70. 73. 77, 79, 82, 83, 92, 93, 94, 254, 256. Matthias, Martha, 254. Mercy, (>S. 92, \'.U\, 254. Wm., 70, 73. 75, SO," 93, 96, 212. 254, 255, 258, 260—265. Barrel!, 225, 227, 237. Barrett, 296. Rev. Saml., 40. Barnes, Ann, 11. Calvin, 196. Barton, Col. Jno., 283. Bassett, Gorham F., 275. Jno.. xiv. Batcheller, Josiah, 161. Batchelor, Marv B., 47. Bates, Charlotte E., 123. Chas. M , 101. Beach, Geo. I., 252. 253. Beachen, Sand., 33. Bean, Mary F., 120. Beecher, Rev. Edw., 148. Belcher, Andrew, 33. Gov.. 39. Bellows, Geo. G., 166. Bemis, Luke, Fam., 88. Bendall, 66. Bender, Peter, 64. Betty, 276. Bennett. Eli.sha, Jno., 22. Bent, 43. Bieler, Washington, Fam., 168, Biggs, Rosa L., 170, 171. 302 INDEX. Billings, XV, Biddell, xi. Bills, Jane, 199. Bird, Wm. Fam., 240. Bishop, Henry F., 140. Blagge, Saml., 96. Blaisdell, C. B., 241. Blanchard, Joshua, 208. Blake, Wm., 4. Jane, xiv. Blaney, Jos., 17, 32. Elbridge G., 17. Bligh, 254. Bonner, ISS. Jno. , 33. Bonning, Jno., 74. Booshere (Boucher), Lewis, 33. Boott, Frances, 65. Boss, 251, 252. Bosson, Rich., xii. Mary, 26. Bosworth, Belief, 199. Boutineau, Stephen, 208. Bowditch, Nathl., 23, 210. Bowes, Wm., 79. Bowman, Eliz., 101, 153. Jas., 153. Box, de Boxe, 281. Alfred, 283. Albert, 284. Annis, 284. Annie E., 284. Ann, 209, 282, 284. Benj., 283. An- tho: 282. Clares, 282. Caleb, 283, 284. Chas.,284. Danl., 283. Elisha, 209. Eliz., 75, 92, 93, 100, 101, 160, 209, 210, 220, 282, 284. Enoch, 284. Emily, 284. Henry W., 283. John, 92, 101, 140, 205, 208—220, 228, 282, 284. John, Ji»., 99, 141, 160, 209, 212, 213, 222, 231, 233. Jos., 284. Lydia, 101, 205, 207—209, 216—220. 224, 228, 231. Martin, 282. Muriel, 284. Mary, 209, 218, 219, 229, 231,- 282, 284. Nathl., 282. Philip, 282, 284. Sir Ralph, 282. Robt., 282. Sarah, 224, 229. Saml., 123, 284. Sally, 284. Thos., 282, 283. Wm. W., 282. Boyd, Adelaide, 151. Boylston, Thos., 225, 293. Bradbury, W. E. Fam., 240. Bradley, Jno., 104, 156. M. J., 199. Bradford, 222, 255, 262. Bradstreet, Symon, 5. Brainerd, Brainard, Austin, Fam., 181. Brandon, 83. Brattle, Thos., 4. Breame, Breeme, Hannah, 1, 11. Bread, Breed, Philip, 17, 32. Breck, Robt., 76. Breen, Christopher, 33. Brereton, Sir Wm., 13, xi. Brewer, 117, xiii, Mary, 100, 115. Brewster, Elder Wm., 147, 275. Bricknall, Edw., 22. Bridge, Jno., Mary, 66. Bridgham, Jos., 33. Henry, 49. Briggs, Deborah, 272. Brigham, Lore, 160, 180. Bright, Jno., 62. Bronsdon, 37, 53, 56, 75, 76, 77, 78, 220, viii, xvi. Abigail, 100, 110, 153. Agnes, 145. Amos IT., 117. Amy, 191. Anna, 35. Annie A., 200. Anne L., 160, 193. Allen A., 199. Alice L)., 144. Arethusa, 177. Arthur E., 116. Aurora K., 147. Avis, x, xi, xii, 26, 27, 35, 76. Bant^, 14, 68, 75, 80-2-3, 93-4-6-8, 100, lOl, 160, 209, 214-16-20-23-61. ^ant\ 80, 92, 99, 151-5, 160-1-2, 193, 220-1. Bant^ 97, 160, 179. Benj., xi. Benj.-, 2, 12, 14, 22-4-6-7, 35-6, 48-9, 54, 68-9, 70— 80-2-3, 254, 258, 261. Benj. 3, 68, 72- 5, 82-3-4, 261. Benj.*, 80, 103, 104, 155-6, 221. Benj. 6, 100, 107-8-9. Benj. B.«, 155. Benj. F.', 200. Caro- line^, 155-8. Catherine B., 191. Chas. F., 155. Chas., 115, 142. Chas. L., 191. Edith R., 190. Edith G., 191. Edw. H., 109. Edwin A., 142-5. Ella H., 191. Ella M., 190, 199. Eleanor, 196. Emma F., 116. Elijah, 100, 101, 105, 142. Eliz. 2. 1, 11, 37, x. Eliz.a (Betty), 69, 73-5-7, 80-1, 94-5-6-7. Eliz.4, 92, 221. Eliz. 5, 98, 100-36-37- 92, .300. Eliz., 68, 75, 201, 223. Eliz. B., 153. Eliz. C, 185. Eliz. D., 110. Eliza, 138. Enos F., 107, 109. Eva M., 200. Fannie, 155-8. Flora, 198. Florence J., 199, Francis H., 116. Frank A., 198. Frederick, 145. F. L. S., 199. F. S., 199. F. H., 1.53-4, Geo, W,, 160, Geo. C, 107. Geo. G., 185. Geo. E., 191. Gilbert, 68, 72, 261. Gladys P., 109. Hannah. 95-6, 101-50, X, Hannah L., 192, 202, Harriet A, S., 160, 162, Helen M., 145. Henry, 83. H. H,, 197, 200, H. K., 196. H. J., 185. Herbert C, 109. H. E., 198. H. H., 190. Her- man, 153. Hope, 148. Iloward A., 116. Ida B., 200. Ida M., 199. Jane^, 192-3. Jane«, 197, 300. Jas. E., 142- 4. Jas., 145. J. H., 144. John Box*, 80-4, 92-6-8, 100—107, 115-16-20-25- 40-44, 155, 221. John^, 100-3-38-39 -40-43-54. Jno.6, 138. Jos., 1, 11, 12, IS, 22, 24, 69. Jos. B., 185. Jos, R., 143-60-61-79-85-89. Jos. W., 117. Joshua L., 185, 190. Laura A., 147, Lawrence W., 191. Lewis, 108. Lewis Vose, 107-8, 202-71. Lilla M., 197. Lillian L., 142. Louise, 108. Lucy J., 115. Lulu S,, 200. Lysander B., INDEX. Bronsdon — Cont. 196, 200. ]\rartlia\ 3, 73, 82—00. Margaret INF., U9, 142-8, 275. Mary, 20, 72, 74, 77, 201, xii. Mary-, 1, 11, 37, 41. Mary'', OS, 73. M. A. L., 1.38. M. B., 115. M. J., 160, 170, 184. Maria L., 115. Mercy", 68, 72-5-9, 80-1, 201. Milton II., 147-8. Mtirch M., 144. Paschal S.^ 160, 193. IVleg, 108. riiinohas"', 84, 92-5, 100-1-42- 43-44, 300. Pliineas", 142-0-7. Ite- beccas, 69, 73. 'Rebecca^ 80, 221. Rebeeca^ 100-1-92, 202. Bahocca'', 138-9-40. Rebecca B., 153. Rebec-k- ab, 1, 2, 9— ly, 20, 48, 56, 59, 68. Robt.i, 1 to 28,'^52-5 6-7, 42-7-9, .58-9, 68-9, 73-5-6, 82, 96, 125, 148, 2.58, x to xvi. Robt,-, 2, 12. Robt.», 68, 83, 261. Salley T)., 1.55-6. Sanil., 100, 115, 117. Sarab, 2, 12, 26, 35, 48, 51, 68, 69, 83. Sarab A., 185. Sarab B., 96-7-8-9, 103, 140, 162, 221. Sarab C, 100, 120, 122, 123, 134, 160, 177. Sumner M., 196-9. Susan, 145. Susan E. B., 142. Susan R., 197. Tliank- ful A., 196-7. Tbos., 191. Tbos. B., 185. Violet A., 190. Wni.-', 68. Wm.*, 80, 103, 155, 163, 192, 221. Wm.S 192-6. Wm. B., 101, 1.53-4. Wm. L., 196. Wm. T., 197. Brooks, 60, 62, 98, 99, 255, 256. Brown, Browne, 16, 21, 76, 77, 95, 124, 1.50, 155, 158, 194, 290. Browning, Frank, 241. Buckley, Jas., 146. Buckmeister, Leonard, 34. Buker, Bowker, 139, 156-7-8, 267, 268. Bui finch, 52, 225-7. Bullard, 273. Bullock, 107. Burden, Jas., 212. Burge, 14. Lorenzo, 78. Burgess, 145, 198, xiv. Burley, Harriet, 184. Burns, 58. Burrill, Jno., 17. Ebenezer, 17. Theopb., 17. Burton, 46. Burtsch, Jos. T. Fani., 119. Bush, Jno., 23. Byrne, Natb. W., 175. Cade, 210. Calder, Jno., 150. Caldwell, Cordwell, 62, 194. Campbell. 57, 58, 86. Caner, Rev. Henry, 210-11-12, 225. Canlield, Folix, 111. Carloy, Sally .1., 16l', 161. Carlcton, 14, 45, iV.\. Carllle, Jno., 34. Carnes, 231. Sarali, 290. CariK^nter, Sarah, 150. ( arr, 294. Carter, Josiah, 45 6 7. Caw to, 19, 27. Cbamberlain, Cbamhcrlaviio, 5, 99, im, ir,2. Chandler, Kdin., xiv, Cliarnoi'k, Mary, :'i8. Chase, Frank, 90. Henj. K., IM. Chaiuicey, Rev. Cba.s., 212. Check, l!ev. Jno. A., 167. Kam , 170. Cheney, Arthur, 63. Cheever, Susanna, 82. Chickering, Rev. Jos., 201. Child, 46-7. Prof. F. J., 46. Chipman, Carrie, 194. Clark, Benj., 48, 56-9, 6.5-6. KHz. C., 18r>. Jeannette, 177. Jno., 37, 48. Han- nah, 177. Martha, 48, 59, 60. Ke- beckah, 48. Robt., 48-9, 54. Sarah, 2, 19, 23, 34, 35, 48, 54-6, 66-7. Wm.. 2, 19, 34-5-7, 48-9, .50-1-2-4-6, V,{\ 7, 257. Clarke, Jona., 263. Tbos., 9. Clap, Clapp, 100-2-3. Edw., Ezra, P^oger, 269. Clowes, 46. Cloville, Priscilla, x. Coburn, Frank, 147. Codnian, Benj. S., 136. Codner, 53. Coffey, Theo. C. Fain., 171-2. Coffin, Annah N., 107-9. Comnerais, 227, 236. Comstock, 150. Cole, Jno., 207. Timotliy, Fani., 243. Coleman, 70. Benj., Sarah, 254. Collier, Jno., 4, 10, 275. Collin.s, 240, 271. Colt, 135. Colton, Coulton, Jno., 216. Charlotte, 124. Cook, Cooke, 27, 210, 210. Coole, Cooley, Coulley, Henry and Re- beekah, 1, 7^ 8. 9, 10. 15, 20-3, 35, 49, 95-6, 67-8, 73. Coolidge, Caleb, 44, 45. Colburn, Edw.. Fani., 243. 304 INDEX. Coombes, Humphrey, 14. Dow, Jas., 86. Cooper, 197-8, 212-16-91. Downes, 21, 44, 208-16-60. Copeland, Ilvildah, 89. Drake, Aaron B., Louise J., 107. Copley, 55. Duck, 46. Copp, David, 33. Dudley, 74, 257. Corwin, Saml., G. Maria F., 110, 112. Dumaresq, Edw., 93. Cottlng, GO, 85, 90. Wm. Fam., 89. Dunbar, Maurice G., 198. Cozzens, Cosens, 110, 2G1. Dunn, Jno., 195. Cricke, Edw., 21. Dupee, Annie M., 119. Crispe, Ellis, 282. Diu'ham, Jno., 262. ' Crocker, Hannah, 95. Dwinnell, Desire or Dinah, 1, 12. Cross, Walter B., 114. Convers, Jas., 24. Earl, Matilda, 157. Crane, Gilman C. Fani., 24.3. Eastman, Emma S., 181. Crehore, 268. Eaton, Roswell, Fam., 183. Crovvninscheldt, Caspar Von, IS. Eddy, Abigail M., 142. Bm]., 84-8, 91. Cud worth, 194, 2G1. Caleb, 82-4-5-8-9, 90-1. Robt. II ., B, Cullock, 52. 84, 91. Martha, 300. Cunimings, Amos S. Fam., 193-4. Sarah, Edminster, Hannah, 183. 27G.^ Edmimds, Sarah, 46. Cunningham, 5G-7-8-9. Edwards Fam., 42-3-4-5. Edwards, 41, Curtis, Curtice, 14, 92, 100, 121, 162, 221, 4G-7, 53, xiii. Rollin A., 47. 223, 232. I. B., G5. Sarah B., 78, Ellenwood, Grace, 147. 96-7-8, 99, 103, IGI. Greeley, 258. Elliott, 24, 52, 207, 262. Eliot, 100, D. S., 149. Jno., Philip, 268. 280. Daggett, 263. Ellis, Roland, 54-6, 164. Dalrymple, Chas., Jas., 58. Elliston, Geo., 74. Damerill, 69, 80, 177. Elwell, Robt., 143. Damon, 100-7-8-9, 272. Emery, G. C, 246. Dana, Rich., 262. Emmons, 55, 205. Darling, David H. Fam., 24G. Endicott, Indecott, Jno,, 15. Danforth, Gov., 5. Englis, Ida, 112. Davenport, Nathl., 150. Jno., 268. Errington, 58. Davis, 61, 2G0-G, 273-4. Erving, Jno., Deborah, 213-22. Dawes, Thomas and Sarah, 205. Estabrook, Rev. Jos., 192. Day, Nathan, 194. Sarah V., vii, 165. Eustis, David, 38. W. E. C, 138. Henry M. Fam., 165, 300. Everett, 268. Deane, Salathiel, xiv. Everton, Funnell, 11, 23. Deblois, Gilbert, 213. Evans Fam., 41. Barton D., 88. Bath- Dennis, 14, 92-4-5-8, 221. sheba, 37, 41-2-3, 51. Chas. C. Fam., Delo, De I'Eau, Eliz., 277. Dermott, Carbry, 14, 15. Derrie, Jerry and Silvie, 98, 233. 245-6. Eliz., 3, 41, 166. Ernest, Jona., 1, 19, 24, 26, 31, 41. Mary 41, 54, 74. IIG. ,27, Devonshire, 293. Dickman, Isaac, 76. Dillingham, Mehitabel, 60-3-4. Doane, Dorcas, 192. Doak, Martha, 271. Fa,ne, Henry, 8, 9. Farnum, Danl. M., 153-4. H. J., 253 Farnsworth, 100. Farrar Fam. and Ancestry, 155, 221, 271. 270, Dobbin, J. Ross, 190. Farris, 230. Dosson, Abigail, 287. ' Doubleday, Elisha, 76. Fay (Estate), 18. Field, Marcy A., 171. Douglass, Wm., 74. Findlater, Madeleine, 116. INDKX. iW) Fillmore, Pres., Powers, 283. Fisher, 63, 139, 159. Fisk, 88, 110. Fitch, 38, 82, 206, 207. Fitts, Fitz, Robt. B., Harriet M. K., 149. Fleet, Thos., 208. Fletcher, 179, 182. Robt. Fain., 110. Rol- liii Fara., 182. AVm. F. Fain., 112-13. Flewelly (Indian), 23. Forsyth, Wm. Fani., 195. Foote, 212. Ford or Fourth, 281. Foster, 2, 06. Col. Asa, 181. Newell A. Fam., 181. Thos., 208. Fothergill, Robt., 4. Fowle, Henry, 95. Foxcroft, Eliz., Francis, 83-4, 93. Foye, 5, 02, 257. Frankland, Sir/ Harry, 50-1-4-5. Thos. Fam., 175. Wm. W. Fara., 175. Fredericks, Wm., Emma L., 144. Franklin, xiii, 33. French, 22, 117, 118. Ellen, 181. Henry G. S. Fam., 177-8. Frizzell, Jnc, 49, 6S, 79, 80. Frost, Geo. W. Fam., 151-2. Frothingham, Mary, 23. Fryer, Nathl., 24. Furbush, Jona., 270. Gaines, 231. Gale, Benj., Avis, 76, xii. Gallishan, Geo. K. W., 183. Gano, Jno. A. Fam., 164, 165. Garbett, Mary, 183. Gardner, 89, 293. Garfield, Nellie M., 195. Gay, 62, 85, 90, 138, 140, 141, 1.5S. Edw. Fam., 137. Geo. H. Fam., 62. Gee, Joshua, 79. George, Susanna, 273. Gibbons, Hannah B., 159. Gilbert, Geo. P. Fam., 195. .lairus, 193-5. Gills, Mr., 34. Gilman, C. E. Fam., 179, 184. Mary E., 184. Girard, Cath. and Stephen, 236-38. Glassel, Joan, 58. Glidden, 278. Glover, Glovor, 107, 251, 256. Robt. M. Fam., 168. Goddard, David, 194. Goldthwait, Kzekiel, 66, 75, 93, 258 9, 26.*1. Thos., m, 74-5. Goooh, Gouge, 76. Jos. M. Fam., 167 9, Gore, LoiiLsa, 65. Gordon, Mary, 201. Jas., 211. Gormlcy, 146. Gould, 275. (Jraham, 257. Grant, Jos., 28. Grantham, Jno., 254. Gray ton, 211. Gray, 45, 93, 268. Benj., 46. Jeffrey, 33. WinUuop, 215. Green, 225. Greenleaf, 289. Greenough, 45-6, 53, 60-2-3-4-5, 86. David 64-5. David S., 45-6. Jno., .59, f.:!. Horatio, ()5. Rich. S., 65. .Martlia, 59,60. Thos.,48, 52-4-6-9, 67. Wm.. 15, 19, 59, 00. Greeley, Philip, 15. Greenwood, 15, 38-9, 40, .53, 197. Alonzo S. Fam., 200. F. W. P., 38, 40. Isaac, 37-9, 40, 81. Isaac J., 40, 65, 94. Nathl., 21, 37, 76. Sam)., 1, 19, 22-4- 6-7, 30-2-4-5-7-8, 48, 69, 70-3. 259, x. Saml. Fam., 37. Grice, Martha, 84. Griffin, Saml., 33. Gross, Eliz., 59. Groves, Eleanor, 62. Guild, 228, 229, 236. Reuben, Fam., 250-1. Hagar, (irace Haines, C. E., 171-2. Hall, xiv, xv. Fred- eric P., Chas. E., Henry M., 86. Wm.. 1.50. Wm. M. Fam., 1S9. Hallam, 174. Saml., Maggie, Jno. and Jno. L., 175. Harold, xv. Hartley, 190. Hamilton, Benj. F. Fam., 239-40. Hammond, Lawrence, 257. Hancock, Jno., 212, 225, 235, 264, 268, 279, 280. Rose, 195. Thos., 40, 53, 56. Hand, Anna, 40. Ilaukinson, Mary, 283. Harris, 124, 146, 183. Jno. F., Rich. B., 124. Geo., 146. Harrison, 100, 110. Harrington, 123, 251, 27:?. Zacli.in- T. Fam., 111. Harrod, 64, 218-19. Hart, 111, 2()7. 306 INDEX. Hartshorne, Thos., 120. Hastings, Thos., 273. Hauser, Rose, 144. Haven, Anne, 46. Hayden, 46. Haskins, B., 213. Hawes, 161, 195, 296-7. Hawkes, Jno., 15. Hawke, Mary, 275. Hay ward, Nathl. M. Fam., 157. Geo. and Hannah, 270. Anthony, 20. Heath, Julianna, 111. Heck, Barbara, 190. Henchman, Nathl. and Marg., 220. Danl., 19, 33, .34. Henderson, Jno., 218. Hemingway, Hemmenway, 268, 289. Herbert, Kath. W. Hersey, Freeman, 239. Hett, 1, 10, 11, 23, 84. Hewitt, Eva A., 61. Hichborn, Benj., 215. Hinkley, Capt., 235. Hlckey, 144. Hicks, Hincks, 182, 64. Hill, 24, 52, 256, xi. Hockaday, Charlotte, 284. Hobby, Hobble, 19, 28, 33-4, 49, 60. Hodge, Hodges, Robt., 15. Hezeklah, 240. Holbrook, Holebrook, 268, 269. Holden, Mary J., 195. Holland, .Jno., 22. Wm., 39. Hollls, Thos., 40. Holmes, Eliz., 100. Howland, Fam., 89. Holloway, Adam, 270. Holt, 192-6-8, 200. Holyoke, Samuel, 297. Hdman, Saml. and Sarah, 276. Hooper, Robt. and Hannah, 17. Hooten, Houghton, 102, 270. Jno., 41. Chester T. Fam., 197, 300. Herbert C, 300. Hopkins, Mehitable, 33. Deborah, 116. Horsball, xlii. Hosklns, 205. Fam., 224. Wm. Jr. Fam., 235. Jno. Box Fam., 236. Jno., Jos. Fam., 238. Hannah (Poor) Fam., 238. Jos. Fam., 239. Mary E. (Hamilton) Fam., 239-40. Sarah F. (Collins) Fam., 240. Rich. Q. Fam., 240. Han- nah(Melanen, Bird) Fam., 240. Henry Fam., 241. Jas. W. Fam., 242-4. Abigail H. (Noyes) Fam., 242-3. Eliza (Cole) Fam., 243. Mary G. J. (Col- bui-n)Fam.,243. Jas. H., 243. Susan, Hoskins — Cont. 243. Preserved B. M. Fam., 244. Alice E. (Alderman) Fam., 244. Ber- tha L., 244. Helen F. (Thompson) Fam., 244. Ernest J. Fam., 244. Henry Box Fam., 245-6. Mary C. (Spiers) Fam., 245. Chas. H., Wm., Mary and Alice, 245. Cath. F. (Evans) Fam., 246. Eleanor H. (Waitt) Fam., 246, vi, vii, 224. Thos. H. Fam., 245- 50. Susanna (Guild) Fam., 250. Chas. Chauncey Fam. , 251 . Jno. Grey Fam. , 252. Caroline S. (Beach) Fam., 252- 3. Martha A. (Weller) Fam., 253. Orlando J. B., 253. Chas. Chauncey, 253. Christopher, 287-8. Wm., 209, 215, 218, 230-1-2-3-4-5, 245, 286, 291- 2-4-5-6-7. Wm. Fam., 224. Lydia (Box), 224-9, 230-1-2-3-4-5, 291. Jane G. (Hodges) Fam., 240. Tryphosa (Wyman) Fam., 242. Houghton, see Hooten, etc. Hovey, Fannie, 87. Howard, Wm., 14, 23-4. Saml. B. Fam., 120, 134-5. Hubbell, Cath. F., 165. Hudson, 121, 218. Hull, Edw., 257. Jno., 8, 20. Hulthorp, Walter, xi. Humble, Susanna, 65. Humeston, 197. Humphrey, Jno., 16. Hunt, 33, 246. Susanna, 153. Huntington, C. P., 65. Hurry, Hannah, 11, 23, 84. Hutchinson, 24, 256. Gov., .50. I'ans, Mary, 39. Inches, Henderson, 213. Ingelo, Nathl., 13. Ingersoll, Col., 213. Ingraham, Henry, 34. Inman, Ralph, 101-2. Ireson (Jerson), Saml. and Edw., 15. Jackson, 221, 222. Deborah, 92, 160, 162. Geo. R. Fam., 145. Queen, 167-9. Jackman, Martha, 182. Jarret, Susanna, 65. Jetfries, xi. Jenks, C. W., 82. Jenkins, Jenkyn, 213. Lionel, 5. Mary, 160. Jennings, Zachariah Fam., 85-6. Jepson, 256, 260. Jewett, 245-8-9. INDEX. :J()7 Johnson, 153, 194. Arabella, IG. Joells, Tlios., 5. Jones, Richard II. Fam., 298-9. Joy, 272. Juxon, 282. Keep, 5. Kellond, Thos. and Abigail, 0, 20. Kelley, 114, 195. Kemble, 15, 16, 20-1-2-4, 70. Kendall, 6, 127. Kennison, Sarah A., 116. Keyes, Sarah A., 146. Kilby, Christopher, 51-2-3-6-7-8-9, 65. Fam., 56. King, 7, 16, 80. Ralph, 17. \Vm., 147. Kimball, Geo. E., 124. Geo. F., 123. Allen, 124. Kinney, 173. Kirtly, J. S., 167. Knapp, F. W., 194. Knell (Neal), Rhilip, 15. Kneeland, Salley, 221, 292. Knight, 19, 27, 34, 196, 240, x. Madam Sarah, 15, 17, 22. Kundert, Regula, 198. Lacy, Wm. Fam., 201. Jas. S. and Sophia U., 201. Lamb, Benj. Fam., 192-3-4-5. Lane, Pauline M., 180. Langdon, Lanyon, 40, 254-5-6. Lapear, 45, 60. Larrabee, Eliza, 241. Lathrop, 7, 8, 40. Lothrop, D. C, 283. Laubham, Clarence A., 114. Laws, Lucius M., Wm., 120. Laurence, Lawrence, 119, 253. Lawson, Henry Fam.. 155-8. Wm. H. Fam., 159. Mary G. (Leiand), 159. Leasonbee, Lazenby, 254. Lee, 87, 101, 139, 143, 149, 171, 270. Leddell, Eliz., 222. Leeds, Martha F., 153. Lely, Saml., 1, 2, 15. Leiand, Wm. H. Fam., 159. Leverett, Gov., 3. Lewis, 192-6, 216. Jona. C, 263-4-5. Andrew P. Fam., 239. Winslow Fam., 62-3. Lincoln, 44-5-6, 77, 164, 260. Amos, 44. Eliz., 88. Alex. E., 45. Jedediah, 44-5. Frederic W. Livingston, Kobt., 276. Lock, xi. Lockwood, Tlios., 20. Loomis, Sarah K., 171-3. Lombard, Jano, 109, 271. Lomas, Harry, 241. Longfellow, Susan, 118. Lord, Jano, 2S4. Goo., 'iR. Loring, 65, 98. Jno. (J., 9 Author's Note. The last page of the Genealogy is now in type, and we would be lacking in proper appreciation if we left unsaid a few words concerning our printer, Mr. Thomas P. Nichols, who has a deservedly high reputation for thorough reliability and excellence in his work. This we have personally experienced. Our share in the work has been facilitated and made easy for us in the most accommodating spirit, and we have been the recipient of valuable suggestions and advice on his part, which have added to the value of the book and aided in its successful accomplishment. 1 » 1 1 • ^<=u • II \0 ■7^, _ ^^.,„„..« -^^ :^ ir-' .0 I. < « <^-> ,0- ^ -^ ^-^ v -^z. ... <^ .^' • '>'^^v DOBBS BROS. libharv aiNDiNO k\)^^ " ' *