individuals with associated notes : Among Our Ancestors

Description: personen met geassocieerde notities

Matches 701 to 800 of 1706

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#	Person ID	Last Name	First Name	Birth Date	Death Date	Living	note	Tree
701	I9659	EMERY	Alice	30 Nov 1622	1680	0	Except for two or three minor court actions, little is known about Chater's life at Newbury except an unhappy phase of his matrimonial experience. Sometime in 1652 he was lying seriously ill as was also one of his servants, Daniel Gunn, a Scotchman who had been deported and sold into servitude after the battle of Worcester. Alice Chater, carrying food to Gunn, told him that, if her husband should die, he should be her husband, of which prospect the young man took immediate advantage. Eighteen months later she confessed to her invalid husband in the hearing of William and Isabel Houldred, who were visiting them. Adultery was a capital offense and Gunn and Alice Chater were soon before the magistrates and in peril of their lives. The verdict of the jury before whom they were tried in the county court-whether it was "guilty" or "not guilty" does not appear-was not satisfactory to the judges, and the case was sent to the higher court in Boston as were the prisoners. On May 14, 1654, perhaps hesitating to inflict the death penalty, the governor and council stated that they were not guilty according to law but that, because of her shameful and unchaste behavior, Alice Chater should be severely admonished and stand tied to the whipping post for one hour and then be discharged that she might return to her husband, while Gunn, after Mr. Lunerius, the physician, had restored him to health, was to be whipped.5 The unhappy young Scot did not long survive his ordeal. In the meantime Newbury gossip was busy with the name of Isabel Houldred who was nursing Chater during his wife's absence, but the magistrates decided that it was unfounded when the usual presentment was made.	tree1
702	I8236	EMERY	Anthony	29 Aug 1601	30 Mar 1680	0	Anthony Emery, a carpenter from Romsey, Hampshire, England, set sail for America with his wife Frances Porter aboard the ship "James" in 1635. Together with his brother John and John's family, they embarked on a journey that would significantly shape their lives and the Emery family lineage in the New World. Upon arrival in Boston on June 3, 1635, Anthony initially settled in Newbury, Massachusetts. Around 1640, he moved to Dover, where he became an influential community member, signing the "Dover Constitution" and running an "Ordinary" (an establishment serving wine and food). He was also appointed as a selectman and was granted the right to operate a ferry and an inn in 1650. Despite facing fines for questioning the authority of the court in Kittery and for entertaining Quakers, Anthony's prominence in the community was evident. He served multiple times as a juryman and selectman, acknowledging himself subject to the government of Massachusetts Bay. In 1660, seeking greater liberty, Anthony and Frances moved to Portsmouth, Rhode Island. He continued his civic engagement, serving as constable and deputy to the General Court. Anthony's last known record is from 1680, transferring land in Portsmouth to his daughter Rebecca Sadler. Both Anthony and Frances eventually returned to Newbury, Massachusetts, where they passed away. Their legacy continues through the rich history of the Emery family, a testament to their pioneering spirit and resilience in shaping early American society.	tree1
703	I9660	EMERY	John	29 Mar 1599	3 Nov 1683	0	When John was accused of entertaining Quakers his answer was "if they come to his house he should welcome them and he would not forbid them." Henry Jacques the constable said that he had brought sandal to the town, dishonored God, and hurt the neighbors.	tree1
704	I9660	EMERY	John	29 Mar 1599	3 Nov 1683	0	Interesting note:John Emerty, my 12th GGF on my paternal side was fined for "miscarriage" with the wife of Henry Travers, and it just so happens that Henry Travers and his wife Bridget were my GGP's on my maternal side. ------------------------------ John Emery, born on September 29, 1598, in Romsey, Hampshire, England, embarked on a significant journey to the New World with his family. He, along with his wife Alice Grantham and their children, accompanied by his brother Anthony Emery, set sail from Southampton on April 3, 1635, aboard the ship "James." They arrived in Boston on June 3, 1635, and soon after, John settled in Newbury, Massachusetts. In Newbury, John was granted a half-acre of land at the Lower Green for his house. He quickly became an integral part of the community, becoming a freeman in 1641. He was recognized as one of the ninety-one proprietors with rights in Newbury's common lands. His involvement in the community extended to participating in a committee in 1645, tasked with constructing a grist-mill in Newbury. Despite the town's offer of £20, ten acres of upland, six acres of meadow, and tax exemption, the mill's construction was delayed. John Emery faced legal issues in 1663 for entertaining Quakers, a controversial act at the time. He was fined £4 and court costs for his hospitality towards them. He passed away on November 3, 1683, in Newbury. John Emery Jr., born around 1628 in Romsey, Hampshire, England, accompanied his father to Newbury in 1635. In 1644, he was granted eighty acres of upland near Merrimack River. Part of this land was a gift from his father, and the rest was purchased from Archelaus Woodman. This property has remained with the Emery descendants to this day.	tree1
705	I8253
706	I7612	ENGLAND	Edward II of	25 Apr 1284	21 Sep 1327	0	Edward was an unusual character by medieval standards. Edward looked the part of a Plantagenet king to perfection. He was tall, athletic, and wildly popular at the beginning of his reign.[18] He rejected most of the traditional pursuits of a king for the period-jousting, hunting and warfare-and instead enjoyed music, poetry and many rural crafts.[19] Furthermore, there is the question of Edward's sexuality in a period when homosexuality of any sort was considered a serious crime, but there is no direct evidence of his sexual orientation. However, contemporary chroniclers made much of his close affinity with a succession of male favourites; some condemned Edward for loving them "beyond measure" and "uniquely", others explicitly referring to an "illicit and sinful union".	tree1
707	I7610	ENGLAND	Edward III of	13 Nov 1312	21 Jun 1377	0	King Edward III is noted for his military success and for restoring royal authority after the disastrous and unorthodox reign of his father, Edward II. Edward III transformed the Kingdom of England into one of the most formidable military powers in Europe. His long reign of fifty years was the second longest in medieval England and saw vital developments in legislation and government-in particular the evolution of the English parliament-as well as the ravages of the Black Death.	tree1
708	I871	ENGLAND	Eleanor of	13 Oct 1162	31 Oct 1214	0	In 1170 Eleanor married King Alfonso VIII of Castile in Burgos.[1] Her parents' purpose in arranging the marriage was to secure Aquitaine's Pyrenean border, while Alfonso was seeking an ally in his struggles with Sancho VI of Navarre. In 1177, this led to Henry overseeing arbitration of the border dispute.[8] Around the year 1200, Alfonso began to claim that the duchy of Gascony was part of Eleanor's dowry, but there is no documented foundation for that claim. It is highly unlikely that Henry II would have parted with so significant a portion of his domains. At most, Gascony may have been pledged as security for the full payment of his daughter's dowry. Her husband went so far on this claim as to invade Gascony in her name in 1205. In 1206, her brother John granted her safe passage to visit him, perhaps to try opening peace negotiations. In 1208, Alfonso yielded on the claim.[9] Decades later, their great-grandson Alfonso X of Castile would claim the duchy on the grounds that her dowry had never been fully paid. Of all Eleanor of Aquitaine's daughters, her namesake was the only one who was enabled, by political circumstances, to wield the kind of influence her mother had exercised.[10] In her own marriage treaty, and in the first marriage treaty for her daughter Berengaria, Eleanor was given direct control of many lands, towns, and castles throughout the kingdom.[11] She was almost as powerful as Alfonso, who specified in his will in 1204 that she was to rule alongside their son in the event of his death, including taking responsibility for paying his debts and executing his will.[12] It was she who persuaded him to marry their daughter Berengaria to Alfonso IX of León. Troubadours and sages were regularly present in Alfonso VIII's court due to Eleanor's patronage.[13] Eleanor took particular interest in supporting religious institutions. In 1179, she took responsibility to support and maintain a shrine to St. Thomas Becket in the cathedral of Toledo. She also created and supported the Abbey of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas, which served as a refuge and tomb for her family for generations, and its affiliated hospital.[14] When Alfonso died, Eleanor was reportedly so devastated with grief that she was unable to preside over the burial. Their eldest daughter Berengaria instead performed these honours. Eleanor then went sick and died only twenty-six days after her husband, and was buried at Abbey of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas.[15]	tree1
709	I10293	ENGLAND	Joan of	Apr 1272	7 Apr 1307	0	Joan of Acre (April 1272 - 23 April 1307) was an English princess, a daughter of King Edward I of England and Queen Eleanor of Castile.[2] The name "Acre" derives from her birthplace in the Holy Land while her parents were on a crusade. Joan is most notable for the claim that miracles have allegedly taken place at her grave, and for the multiple references to her in literature. Joan’s burial place has been the cause of some interest and debate. She is interred in the Augustinian priory at Clare, which had been founded by her first husband's ancestors and where many of them were also buried. Allegedly, in 1357, Joan’s daughter, Elizabeth De Burgh, claimed to have “inspected her mother's body and found the corpse to be intact”,[32] which in the eyes of the Roman Catholic Church is an indication of sanctity. This claim was only recorded in a fifteenth-century chronicle, however, and its details are uncertain, especially the statement that her corpse was in such a state of preservation that "when her paps [breasts] were pressed with hands, they rose up again." Some sources further claim that miracles took place at Joan's tomb,[32] but no cause for her beatification or canonization has ever been introduced. Joan of Acre makes an appearance in Virginia Henley's historical romance Infamous. In the book, Joan, known as Joanna, is described as a promiscuous young princess, vain, shallow and spoiled. In the novel she is only given one daughter, when she historically had eight children. There is no evidence that supports this picture of Joan.[33] In The Love Knot by Vanessa Alexander, Joan of Acre is an important character. The author portrays a completely different view of the princess from the one in Henley’s novel. The Love Knot tells the story of the love affair between Ralph de Monthermer and Joan of Acre through the discovery of a series of letters the two had written to each other.[34] Between historians and novelists, Joan has appeared in various texts as either an independent and spirited woman or a spoiled brat. In Lives of the Princesses of England by Mary Anne Everett Green, Joan is portrayed as a “giddy princess” and neglectful mother.[35] Many have agreed to this characterization; however, some authors think there is little evidence to support the assumption that Joan of Acre was a neglectful or uncaring mother	tree1
710	I669	ENGLAND	King John of	24 Dec 1166	19 Oct 1216	0	Newark Castle, Lincolnshire, England	tree1
711	I669	ENGLAND	King John of	24 Dec 1166	19 Oct 1216	0	John lost the Duchy of Normandy to King Philip II of France, resulting in the collapse of most of the Angevin Empire and contributing to the subsequent growth in power of the Capetian dynasty during the 13th century. The baronial revolt at the end of John's reign led to the sealing of Magna Carta, a document sometimes considered to be an early step in the evolution of the constitution of the United Kingdom. Contemporary chroniclers were mostly critical of John's performance as king, and his reign has since been the subject of significant debate and periodic revision by historians from the 16th century onwards. Historian Jim Bradbury has summarised the current historical opinion of John's positive qualities, observing that John is today usually considered a "hard-working administrator, an able man, an able general". Nonetheless, modern historians agree that he also had many faults as king, including what historian Ralph Turner describes as "distasteful, even dangerous personality traits", such as pettiness, spitefulness and cruelty.[3] These negative qualities provided extensive material for fiction writers in the Victorian era, and John remains a recurring character within Western popular culture, primarily as a villain in films and stories depicting the Robin Hood legends.	tree1
712	I17314	ERMESINDE		Jul 1186	12 Feb 1247	0	According to legend, Ermesinde saw the Virgin Mary, and planned the construction on that spot of the Clairefontaine Abbey.[1] In her will she asked that she be buried at this location. The abbey was built by her son, Henry V.[3] After many years, the abbey was destroyed in the late 18th century by French troops. In 1747, shortly before the old abbey was destroyed by French troops, the nuns had hidden Ermesinde's remains in a chapel, where they were found by the Jesuits during 1875-1877 reconstructions. The remains are now in the crypt of the chapel of Clairefontaine.	tree1
713	I19761	ESSEX	Agnes of	1151	Aft 1212	0	Aubrey de Vere, 1st Earl of Oxford, and his third wife, Agnes of Essex, had a marriage that was as dramatic as it was significant in medieval England. Born around 1115, Aubrey was a noble involved in the succession conflict between King Stephen and Empress Matilda. He became the Earl of Oxford in 1141 and was a benefactor to several religious houses. Aubrey's first marriage to Beatrice, daughter of Henry, Constable of Bourbourg, was short-lived, possibly due to her poor health. His second marriage to Euphemia ended with her death in 1154. It was his third marriage to Agnes of Essex, daughter of Henry of Essex, a royal constable, that brought a whirlwind of drama. Agnes, born in 1151, was initially betrothed to Geoffrey de Vere, Aubrey's brother. However, in a twist of fate, she rejected Geoffrey and married Aubrey around 1163, when she was about twelve years old. Their marriage coincided with a dramatic turn in Agnes's family fortunes. Her father, Henry of Essex, was accused of treason and lost a judicial duel, leading to his disgrace and the forfeiture of his lands and offices. Following this scandal, Aubrey sought to annul his marriage to Agnes, possibly due to her family's fallen status. Agnes, confined in one of Aubrey's castles, appealed to the Bishop of London and then to Pope Alexander III. The Pope ruled in her favor, establishing the canon law requirement of consent by females in betrothal and marriage. Despite this, Aubrey continued to refuse to cohabit with her. The couple's estrangement was a matter of public and ecclesiastical concern. In 1171 or 1172, the Pope directed the Bishop of London to order Aubrey to restore Agnes to her conjugal rights or face excommunication. Eventually, the marriage was reconciled, and they had four sons, including two future Earls of Oxford, and a daughter. Together, Aubrey and Agnes founded a Benedictine priory for nuns near their castle at Castle Hedingham in Essex around 1190. Aubrey died on 26 December 1194 and was buried at Colne Priory. Agnes survived him and later paid the crown for the right to remain unmarried. She died sometime after 1212 and was buried alongside Aubrey. Their marriage, marked by ecclesiastical intervention, legal battles, and reconciliation, reflects the complex interplay of personal relationships, political fortunes, and religious norms in medieval England. The story of Aubrey and Agnes de Vere is a testament to the turbulent and often unpredictable nature of aristocratic life in the 12th century.	tree1
714	I7160	EUSTACE	Geoffrey fitz	1050	1101	0	the fact that Gidgifu is Geoffrey's mother is just speculation	tree1
715	I19932	EVERETT	William	1614	1653	0	Died at Sea	tree1
716	I2112	EWER	Drusilla	1780	Apr 1877	0	Formerly in Strafford County	tree1
717	I19499	FABIAN	John	1652	15 Feb 1705	0	Date of immigration unknown	tree1
718	I2857	FARNHAM	Jonathan	11 Apr 1726	18 Dec 1800	0	Age: 74	tree1
719	I4840	FARNHAM	Jonathan	29 Aug 1757	17 Mar 1837	0	Age: 79	tree1
720	I4841	FARNHAM	Ralph	1 Jun 1662	3 Jan 1737	0	Age: 0	tree1
721	I4841	FARNHAM	Ralph	1 Jun 1662	3 Jan 1737	0	At the time, Concord was known as Rumford	tree1
722	I4837	FARNHAM	Ralph	25 May 1689	16 May 1759	0	Age: 69	tree1
723	I15523
724	I15119	FARNUM	Henry		1618	0	probably died on return trip from India on the Moone, a ship on which he worked	tree1
725	I20421
726	I1729	FAUNCE	Barbara	8 Aug 1915	20 Mar 2006	0	Barbara had no children but loved her cats. She lived at York Beach and sent Christmas cards to me. A niece Noreen informed me of her passing.	tree1
727	I9702	FERNALD	Renald	6 Jul 1595	6 Oct 1656	0	Renald (or Reginald) Fernald, a pivotal figure in early Portsmouth, New Hampshire, was among the first settlers, arriving in 1631. Sent by Captain Mason, he was notably the first surgeon in the area, showcasing his medical expertise which may have originated from his service in the English Navy. Throughout his life, Renald significantly contributed to the community, holding various key positions including Clerk of Court, Recorder of Deeds, Commissioner, Surveyor, and Town Clerk. His judicial involvement was marked as early as 1634 when he served on the grand jury, and he continued his civic duties as a recorder in 1654. Renald's residence on "Doctor's Island" (now known as Pierce's Island) was where he spent his final days, passing away between May 17 and October 7, 1656. His final resting place is believed to be at Point of Graves Cemetery in Portsmouth. In addition to his professional and civic roles, Renald was an active church member from May 25, 1640. His familial legacy includes his wife Joanna, whom some sources suggest he married on January 1, 1619, though her maiden name remains uncertain with suggestions like "Warburton." He was also the father of sons John, Samuel, William, and Thomas, with William Fernald later becoming a lieutenant, safeguarding valuable items on Fernald's Island during the tumultuous times of 1694.	tree1
728	I1731	FERNALD	Wesley G	Abt 1912		0	Wesley Fernald may be the same one who died in Manitou Springs, Colorado in April 1987.	tree1
729	I5097	FERRA	Marie Brigette	Abt 1644	17 Feb 1713	0	Marie Ferra, the daughter of Jean Ferra and Antoinette Hubert from Creve-Coeur of Beauvais in Picardie, France. Websites: http://www.oocities.org/weallcamefromsomewhere/Kebec/marie_ferra.html	tree1
730	I19482	FIELD	Darby	1610	1 Oct 1651	0	Darby Field, an early settler, initially made his appearance in Boston, Massachusetts in 1636 before moving to Durham, New Hampshire by 1638. In Durham, he operated a ferry service between Durham Point and Newington, navigating across Little Bay. Field was recognized for his linguistic skills, particularly as a translator for Native American languages. His residences included Marblehead in 1637 and Oyster River in 1639. In the same year, he actively participated in the local community, as evidenced by his signature on the Exeter Combination. Field was a dynamic figure, deeply involved in the contemporary matters of his time. By 1638, he had mastered the Native American language and frequently worked as an interpreter. His adventurous spirit led him to be the pioneer European to climb Mt. Washington, situated in New Hampshire's White Mountains. Despite his early achievements, Field's later years were shadowed by mental health issues. As per the Genealogical Dictionary of Maine and New Hampshire, his vibrant but brief life was eventually overshadowed by mental illness. Mt. Field, which stands at 4,326 feet within the White Mountains' Willey Range and adjacent to Crawford Notch, is named in honor of Darby Field. He is famously recognized for his 1642 expedition of Mt. Washington, a venture driven by his quest for minerals, specifically diamonds. However, he only found quartz, leading to profound disappointment. His ensuing erratic behavior resulted in his confinement for the safety of himself and others. A court ruling mandated that Strawberry Bank, New Hampshire (later known as Portsmouth), should contribute financially to the costs associated with his detention and care.	tree1
731	I8494	FITZ	Bridgett	1614	10 Oct 1673	0	Henry Travers [Parents] was born about 1611 in London, London, , England. He died 26 Jul 1648 in London, London, , England. Henry married Bridgett Fitts on 1635 in , , England. [Notes] Henry Travers He was granted 6 acres of salt marsh, 4 acres along Merrimack St, and a houselot near the First Landing Place. Bridgett Fitts [Parents] was born about 1614 in Newbury, Essex, Massachusetts. She died 9 Nov 1673 in , Gloucestershire, England. Bridgett married Henry Travers on 1635 in , , England. They had the following children: F i Sarah Travers was born 1636. M ii James Travis was born 28 Apr 1645 and died 1717	tree1
732	I8494	FITZ	Bridgett	1614	10 Oct 1673	0	Henry Travers, sometimes spelled Travis, originated from London, England. He arrived on the "Mary and John" in early 1634. While some secondary sources claim Irish ancestry, there is no concrete evidence supporting this. The "Mary and John" passengers initially settled in Agawam, now Ipswich, Massachusetts, and in 1635, many, including Henry Travers, relocated to Newbury. There, he received six acres of salt marsh in the Great Marsh and a half-acre house lot near the First Landing Place, along with four acres in another part of Newbury. He was listed as one of the 91 freeholders of Newbury on December 7, 1642. Henry's wife, Bridget, might have been related to Richard Fitts of Ipswich and Newbury, Massachusetts. Richard Fitts' will, dated December 2, 1672, mentions his sister "Travisse's" daughter. The term 'sister' could imply a sister-in-law, suggesting Richard Fitts might have been a brother-in-law or a step-relation. After Henry's departure, Bridget remarried Richard Window of Gloucester, Massachusetts, on March 30, 1659. There's speculation that Bridget might have been previously married to a Goodwin before marrying Henry Travers. It's also possible that Henry had a wife in England before coming to America, but this remains uncertain. In a court held at Ipswich, Massachusetts, on September 29, 1646, John Emery was fined for his misconduct with Henry Traverse's wife, Bridget Traverse, who was also fined for her misdemeanors. Henry Travers was a seaman. In 1648, he traveled to London and never returned, leaving behind his wife Bridget, daughter Sarah, and son James. Before his departure, he wrote a will, leaving various items to his daughter Sara, including livestock and household goods. In 1655, Bridget petitioned the court regarding the estate, indicating that Henry had left seven years prior and she had only heard from him once, five years after his departure. It seems he chose to stay in England, abandoning his family in America. His estate was inventoried on July 15, 1659, posthumously referring to him as "late of Newbury, deceased." At a court session in Ipswich on September 27, 1659, Henry Travers' will was presented but not proved. Administration was granted to his widow, Bridget, now Richard Window's wife. The court ordered the distribution of the estate among the family members. After marrying Richard Window in 1659, Bridget moved to Gloucester. Richard's will, dated May 2, 1665, and proved on June 27, 1665, mentions the Travers children, particularly concerning James Travis's inheritance. Bridget was widowed again and had passed away by November 9, 1673, when her estate was in probate. Administration was granted to Nicholas Wallingford and James Travis. An inventory conducted on October 9, 1673, totaled 11 pounds, 12 shillings, and 3 pence. Testimonies regarding her will were given, detailing the distribution of her estate among her children and grandchildren. Elizabeth Worcester, who later married Onesiphorus Marsh, Sarah Travers' third husband, was involved in the testimony.	tree1
733	I17426	FITZALAN	Alice	1350	17 Mar 1416	0	Alice Holland, Countess of Kent (c. 1350[1] - 17 March 1416), LG, formerly Lady Alice Fitzalan, was an English noblewoman, a daughter of the 10th Earl of Arundel, and the wife of the 2nd Earl of Kent, the half-brother of King Richard II. As the maternal grandmother of Anne Mortimer, she was an ancestor of King Edward IV and King Richard III, as well as King Henry VII and the Tudor dynasty through her daughter Margaret Holland. She was also the maternal grandmother of Joan Beaufort, Queen of Scotland. She was appointed a Lady of the Garter in 1388.	tree1
734	I10327	FITZALAN	Edmund	1 May 1285	17 Nov 1326	0	Executed and beheaded with a blunt sword - 22 strokes were necessary/Hereford, Berkshire, England	tree1
735	I10327	FITZALAN	Edmund	1 May 1285	17 Nov 1326	0	Edmund FitzAlan, 9th Earl of Arundel[a] (1 May 1285 - 17 November 1326) was an English nobleman prominent in the conflict between Edward II and his barons. His father, Richard FitzAlan, 8th Earl of Arundel, died on 9 March 1301, while Edmund was still a minor. He therefore became a ward of John de Warenne, Earl of Surrey, and married Warenne's granddaughter Alice. In 1306 he was styled Earl of Arundel, and served under Edward I in the Scottish Wars, for which he was richly rewarded. After Edward I's death, Arundel became part of the opposition to the new king Edward II, and his favourite Piers Gaveston. In 1311 he was one of the so-called Lords Ordainers who assumed control of government from the king. Together with Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, he was responsible for the death of Gaveston in 1312. From this point on, however, his relationship to the king became more friendly. This was to a large extent due to his association with the king's new favourite Hugh Despenser the Younger, whose daughter was married to Arundel's son. Arundel supported the king in suppressing rebellions by Roger Mortimer and other Marcher Lords, and eventually also Thomas of Lancaster. For this he was awarded with land and offices. His fortune changed, however, when the country was invaded in 1326 by Mortimer, who had made common cause with the king's wife, Queen Isabella. Immediately after the capture of Edward II, the queen, Edward III's regent, ordered Arundel executed, his title forfeit and his property confiscated. Arundel's son and heir Richard only recovered the title and lands in 1331, after Edward III had taken power from the regency of Isabella and Mortimer. In the 1390s, a cult emerged around the late earl. He was venerated as a martyr, though he was never canonised.	tree1
736	I10324	FITZALAN	Richard	1313	24 Jan 1376	0	Richard FitzAlan, 10th Earl of Arundel and 8th Earl of Surrey (c.1306 - 24 January 1376) was an English nobleman and medieval military leader and distinguished admiral. Arundel was one of the wealthiest nobles, and most loyal noble retainer of the chivalric code that governed the reign of Edward III. FitzAlan died an incredibly wealthy man, despite his various loans to Edward III, leaving £60,000 in cash. He had been as astute in business, as he had in diplomatic politics. He was a cautious man, and wisely saved his estate for future generations.	tree1
737	I17373	FITZALLEN	Richard	1346	21 Sep 1397	0	Richard was seized, tried at Westminster and beheaded at Cheapside	tree1
738	I9285	FITZGEOFFREY	Maud	1184	27 Aug 1236	0	Walden, Essex, England	tree1
739	I9285	FITZGEOFFREY	Maud	1184	27 Aug 1236	0	Henry de Bohun figured with the earls of Clare and Gloucester among the twenty-five barons who were elected by their fellows to enforce the terms of the Magna Carta in 1215, and was subsequently excommunicated by the Pope. In the civil war that followed the Magna Carta, he was also a supporter of King Louis VIII of France and was captured at the Battle of Lincoln in 1217.[1] He died in June 1220 while on crusade to the Holy Land.	tree1
740	I10316	FITZJOHN	Roger Clavering	1219	22 Jun 1249	0	Normandy, France	tree1
741	I9260	FITZPETER	Lucy	1204	1266	0	Helmsley, Yorkshire, England	tree1
742	I10279	FITZPIERS	Geoffrey	1162	14 Oct 1213	0	Walden, Essex, England	tree1
743	I19771	FITZRICHARD	John		11 Oct 1190	0	Died in the Third Crusade	tree1
744	I3327	FITZRICHARD	Osbern	1055	Abt 1080	0	Ludlow, Herefordshire, England	tree1
745	I10320	FITZROBERT	John	Bef 1191	20 Feb 1241	0	John FitzRobert, born around 1190 and dying in 1241, was a significant figure in the tumultuous period of English history surrounding the Magna Carta. He held estates across two regions of England: the far north along the Scottish border, and East Anglia and Essex. This geographical spread gave him ties with two main groups of barons who opposed King John in 1216. John's family had a long tradition of service to the Angevin monarchy. His grandfather, Roger FitzRichard, earned Henry II's favor through military prowess, receiving the castle of Warkworth in Northumberland and later the castle and feudal honor of Clavering in Essex. John's father, Robert, served as sheriff of Northumberland in 1203 and received various grants from King John. Robert expanded the great castle at Warkworth, with additions still visible today. Succeeding his father in 1212, John FitzRobert maintained his family's position in northern society, associating with notable figures like Eustace de Vesci, William de Mowbray, and Peter de Brus. He also had connections in East Anglia, where his great-grandfather had acquired estates through marriage to a daughter of Roger Bigod, Earl of Norfolk. John himself served as sheriff of Norfolk and Suffolk in 1213 and 1215. Despite his family's history of royal service, John joined the baronial cause relatively late. His high standing and strong ties in northern society led to his selection as one of the Twenty Five, a group of barons responsible for enforcing the Magna Carta. After the baronial defeat at Lincoln in 1216, he was among the first to submit to Henry III's minority government. He later served as sheriff of Northumberland from 1224 to 1227. John FitzRobert married twice. His first wife, Ada de Balliol, brought him the lordship of Barnard Castle in County Durham. His second wife was Cecily de Fontaines. When John died in 1240, the chronicler Matthew Paris described him as "a man of noble birth and one of the chief barons of the northern provinces of England." John FitzRobert's life was a blend of loyalty, rebellion, and political maneuvering. His involvement in the Magna Carta and the baronial rebellion against King John highlights his significant role in the struggle for rights and governance in medieval England. His legacy continued through his children, who maintained the family's prominence in English history.	tree1
746	I3150	FITZWALTER	Robert	1162	Abt 9 Dec 1235	0	Robert FitzWalter, born around 1180 and dying in 1235, was a prominent figure in the baronial opposition against King John of England, playing a significant role in the events leading up to the Magna Carta. He was the son of Walter FitzRobert of Woodham Walter and Maud de Lucy. Robert FitzWalter was the leader of the Magna Charta Barons and their Army, styled "Marshal of the Army of God and the Holy Church. Inheriting his father's estates in 1198, Robert became one of the wealthiest and most powerful English barons. His lands were spread across several counties, including the Barony of Little Dunmow in Essex and the Barony of Benington in Hertfordshire. His marriage to Gunnora de Valoines brought him additional lands and knight's fees. Robert's early life was marked by controversy, particularly his and Saer de Quincy's surrender of the castle of Vaudreuil in Normandy to King Philip of France in 1203. This act, which occurred without resistance, led to accusations of cowardice and collusion with the enemy, though the true motives behind their actions remain unclear. The relationship between Robert and King John deteriorated significantly in 1212. The exact reasons for this are not entirely clear, but chroniclers suggest various causes, including a personal dispute over rights in Binham Priory and a more serious accusation involving John's alleged attempt to seduce Robert's daughter Matilda. Additionally, Robert's ties with the Braose family, who were enemies of John, likely contributed to the tension. Robert and Eustace de Vesci fled England in 1212, with Robert seeking refuge in France. They were reconciled with King John in 1213 as part of a general settlement with the Church, but Robert's relationship with the king remained strained. By 1215, Robert emerged as a leader in the baronial opposition. He was present at the meeting at Bury St Edmunds, where the barons swore to compel John to confirm the coronation charter of Henry I. He played a key role in the rebellion, leading to the sealing of the Magna Carta. Robert was appointed as one of the Twenty Five barons responsible for enforcing the charter's provisions. Following the rejection of the Magna Carta by King John, civil war ensued. Robert was instrumental in maintaining baronial control of London and played a significant role in the ensuing conflict. He was captured at the Battle of Lincoln in 1217 but was released following the conclusion of peace. Robert later participated in the Fifth Crusade and returned to England to witness the final reissue of the Magna Carta in 1225. He died on 9 December 1235 and was buried at Dunmow Priory. His life was marked by his opposition to King John and his significant contribution to the Magna Carta, a cornerstone of English constitutional history.	tree1
747	I3166	FITZWILLIAM	Sir William	1347	8 Apr 1398	0	Ellmynne	tree1
748	I19857	FLETCHER	Robert	Abt 1592	3 Apr 1677	0	Be very careful of online trees. Most attach him incorrectly to a father that is unproven,	tree1
749	I4614	FORTIER	Desneig	4 Dec 1898		0	Québec	tree1
750	I630	FORTIER	Eva	18 Dec 1892	9 Nov 1958	0	Québec	tree1
751	I630	FORTIER	Eva	18 Dec 1892	9 Nov 1958	0	Mt. Cavalry Cemetery	tree1
752	I630	FORTIER	Eva	18 Dec 1892	9 Nov 1958	0	Died at her home at 108 Green Street	tree1
753	I8010	FORTIER	Jean Baptiste	23 Jul 1891	May 1969	0	Québec	tree1
754	I4616	FORTIER	Laura	23 Aug 1900		0	Québec	tree1
755	I6349	FORTIER	Louis	2 Feb 1724	10 Aug 1790	0	St Laurent, Ile, Quebec, Canada	tree1
756	I8009	FORTIER	Marie	23 Feb 1894	1919	0	Québec	tree1
757	I6355	FORTIER	Marie Anne	13 Dec 1712	3 May 1786	0	St Laurent, Ile, Quebec, Canada	tree1
758	I1454	FORTIER	Pierre Noel	25 Nov 1686	17 Feb 1731	0	St Laurent, Ile, Quebec, Canada	tree1
759	I13745	FORTIN	Julien	22 Apr 1667	22 Nov 1687	0	possibly a victim of the smallpox or measles epidemic that year	tree1
760	I13747	FORTIN	Louis	19 Mar 1671	9 Dec 1687	0	possibly a victim of the smallpox or measles epidemic that year	tree1
761	I5652	FOURNIER	Francoise	1753	3 Aug 1823	0	If I continue to follow this Fournier line back could it lead to Jacques Fournier? He was the husband of Helene Du Figuier, one of the King's daughters.	tree1
762	I13257	FOURNIER	Guillaume	2 May 1619	24 Oct 1699	0	HIGHLIGHTS: On November 20, 1651, Guillaume married Marie-Françoise Hébert at Notre-Dame-de-Québec. His bride was the 13-year-old daughter of Guillaume Hébert and Hélène Desportes. Guillaume was 32 at the time. In early New France, it was not uncommon to see significant age differences between spouses. The legal age of consent was 12. Marriage in New France was often viewed as a practical arrangement rather than a romantic union. The primary goal was to establish a stable household and produce children to help populate the colony. Parents played a significant role in arranging marriages. They often sought to marry their daughters to older, more established men to ensure their daughters' future security and prosperity. Known for his demanding and combative temperament, Guillaume was involved in several legal disputes, suing multipl epeople for various reasons. CONNECTIONS: Guillaume Fournier is Jim's 8th GGF on the Vermette/Gilbert branch. LIFE STORY: Guillaume Fournier, a significant figure in early New France, was born around 1620 in Coulmer-Argentan, Normandy, France, to Gilles Fournier and Noelle Gageut (or Gagnon). While the exact date of his arrival in New France is uncertain, his presence is first recorded in 1651. On November 20, 1651, Guillaume married Marie-Françoise Hébert at Notre-Dame-de-Québec. His bride was the 13-year-old daughter of Guillaume Hébert and Hélène Desportes, and granddaughter of Louis Hébert, considered the first "Canadian Settler." This marriage connected Guillaume to one of the most prominent families in the colony. Guillaume and Françoise had 15 children between 1653 and 1680, though their first child and two others died in infancy. The couple's large family would go on to establish the Fournier name widely across North America. Known for his demanding and combative temperament, Guillaume was involved in several legal disputes. He notably sued Dame Guillemette Hébert, his wife's aunt, over land rights. In 1668, he acquired his first seigneury through litigation, becoming co-seigneur of the Sault-au-Matelot property originally granted to Louis Hébert. In 1672, Guillaume received a new seigneury grant from Jean Talon, consisting of thirty acres along the St. Lawrence River. This land would later become part of Montmagny. Guillaume is credited as the founder of the Saint-Thomas-de-la-Pointe-à-la-Caille parish in this area, where he donated land for the construction of a church in 1685. Guillaume's house in Montmagny, described as a single-story structure with an attic, served as a place for Mass until a proper church could be built. This act, along with his land donation, underscores his role in establishing the community. Guillaume Fournier died on October 24, 1699, in Montmagny at the age of 80. He was buried in Saint Odilon de Montmagny Cemetery. His wife Françoise, who outlived him by many years, passed away on March 16, 1716, at the age of 86. The Fournier legacy continued through their children, with their sons Charles and Jean having the largest number of descendants.	tree1
763	I7299	FOWLER	Henry the	876	2 Jul 936	0	As the first non-Frankish king, he established the Ottonian Dynasty of kings and emperors, he is generally considered to be the founder and first king of the medieval German state, known until then as East Francia. An avid hunter, he obtained the epithet "the Fowler" because he was allegedly fixing his birding nets when messengers arrived to inform him that he was to be king.	tree1
764	I1038	FOYE	Pierre	1605	5 Jul 1667	0	LHermenault, Poitou, France	tree1
765	I1038	FOYE	Pierre	1605	5 Jul 1667	0	LHermenault, Poitou, France	tree1
766	I7289	FRANCE	Henry I of	4 May 1008	4 Aug 1060	0	The royal demesne of France reached its smallest size during his reign, and for this reason he is often seen as emblematic of the weakness of the early Capetians. This is not entirely agreed upon, however, as other historians regard him as a strong but realistic king, who was forced to conduct a policy mindful of the limitations of the French monarchy.	tree1
767	I7613	FRANCE	Isabella of	1295	22 Aug 1358	0	Isabella was slender and pale-skinned, although the fashion at the time was for blonde, slightly full-faced women, and Isabella may well have followed this stereotype instead.[14] Throughout her career, Isabella was noted as charming and diplomatic, with a particular skill at convincing people to follow her courses of action.[15] Unusual for the medieval period, contemporaries also commented on her high intelligence.[16]	tree1
768	I10401	FRANCE	Louis IX of	25 Apr 1214	25 Aug 1270	0	During his second crusade, Louis died of Dysentery	tree1
769	I10401	FRANCE	Louis IX of	25 Apr 1214	25 Aug 1270	0	Louis IX commonly known as Saint Louis, was King of France, the ninth from the House of Capet, and is a canonized Catholic and Anglican saint. Louis was crowned in Reims at the age of 12, following the death of his father Louis VIII the Lion, although his mother, Blanche of Castile, ruled the kingdom until he reached maturity. During Louis' childhood, Blanche dealt with the opposition of rebellious vassals and put an end to the Albigensian Crusade which had started 20 years earlier. As an adult, Louis IX faced recurring conflicts with some of the most-powerful nobles, such as Hugh X of Lusignan and Peter of Dreux. Simultaneously, Henry III of England tried to restore his continental possessions, but was utterly defeated at the battle of Taillebourg. His reign saw the annexation of several provinces, notably Normandy, Maine and Provence. Louis IX was a reformer and developed French royal justice, in which the king was the supreme judge to whom anyone could appeal to seek the amendment of a judgment. He banned trials by ordeal, tried to prevent the private wars that were plaguing the country, and introduced the presumption of innocence in criminal procedure. To enforce the application of this new legal system, Louis IX created provosts and bailiffs. Following a vow he made after a serious illness and confirmed after a miraculous cure, Louis IX took an active part in the Seventh and Eighth Crusades. He died from dysentery during the latter crusade, and was succeeded by his son Philip III. Louis's actions were inspired by Christian zeal and Catholic devotion. He decided to severely punish blasphemy (for which he set the punishment to mutilation of the tongue and lips),[1] gambling, interest-bearing loans and prostitution. He spent exorbitant sums on presumed relics of Christ, for which he built the Sainte-Chapelle, and he expanded the scope of the Inquisition and ordered the burning of Talmuds and other Jewish books. He is the only canonized king of France, and there are consequently many places named after him.	tree1
770	I17201	FRANCE	Philip IV of	1268	1314	0	King Philip, known as "le Bel" (the Fair) because of his good looks, was a strangely unemotional man; one contemporary described him as "neither a man nor a beast, but a statue"	tree1
771	I356	FRANCE	Robert I of	15 Aug 866	15 Jun 923	0	Killed in battle defending his crown against Charles the Simple. Succeeded as king by his son-in-law Rudolph, Count of Burgandy, also known as Raoul.	tree1
772	I356	FRANCE	Robert I of	15 Aug 866	15 Jun 923	0	Robert faithfully served his older brother, King Eudes, during Eudes’s reign (888-898), as margrave. Though on Eudes’s death he became one of the most powerful Frankish lords, inheriting all the family lands between the Seine and the Loire rivers, he swore fealty with other magnates to the new king, the Carolingian Charles III the Simple. From 911 onward, his role became more decisive: his defeat of the Northmen at Chartres paved the way for the Treaty of Saint-Clair-sur-Epte, by which Charles assigned them territory in Normandy. Robert stood as godfather at the baptism of Rollo, the Northmen’s chief. Robert’s military success greatly enhanced his prestige, and dissension between him and the king became undisguised. When Charles III imprudently offered preferment exclusively to lords from Lorraine, the Neustrian lords, led by Robert, broke into open revolt. They elected Robert king at Reims in June 922, and the East Frankish king Henry I immediately recognized Robert’s kingship and rights to Lorraine. In a battle near Soissons in 923, Charles’s army was routed, but Robert was killed. His grandson was Hugh Capet, founder of the Capetian dynasty.	tree1
773	I7293	FRANCE	Robert II of	27 Mar 972	20 Jul 1031	0	Melun, France	tree1
774	I7293	FRANCE	Robert II of	27 Mar 972	20 Jul 1031	0	Robert distinguished himself with an extraordinarily long reign for the time. His 35-year long reign was marked by his attempts to expand the royal domain by any means, especially by his long struggle to gain the Duchy of Burgundy. His policies earned him many enemies, including three of his sons. He was also known for his difficult marriages: he married three times, annulling two of these and attempting to annul the third, only prevented by the Pope's refusal to accept a third annulment. The pious Robert made few friends and many enemies, including his own sons: Hugh, Henry, and Robert. They turned against their father in a civil war over power and property. Robert was a devout Catholic, hence his sobriquet "the Pious." He was musically inclined, being a composer, chorister, and poet, and made his palace a place of religious seclusion where he conducted the matins and vespers in his royal robes. Robert's reputation for piety also resulted from his lack of toleration for heretics, whom he harshly punished. He is credited with advocating forced conversions of local Jewry.	tree1
775	I16436
776	I1738	FREAR	James Maurice	1917	Sep 1982	0	Both of James' parents are listed as "entertainers" on his marriage record but were living in different states. I think he is probably the same James Frear born 13 Oct 1917 and died Sept 1982, but I am not sure. That James Morris Frear is buried in the Riverside National Cemetery in California. The last social security benefit was sent to Glendale, California 91209.	tree1
777	I9145	FREETHY	William	Abt 1612	1688	0	William Freethy, born around 1612, embarked on a journey to the New World that would significantly shape his life and legacy. It is believed that he arrived on the ship Speedwell in 1635, joining the wave of English settlers seeking new opportunities in America. In the early years of his settlement, William found himself on Richmond Island, off the coast of Maine. Here, he was involved in a notable mutiny, a reflection of the challenging and often harsh conditions faced by early colonists in these remote outposts. In 1636, John Winter, who managed Robert Trelawny's fishing operations in Maine, encountered a challenging situation with his crew. He wrote to Trelawny on June 28, 1636, detailing the issues. The crux of the problem was a dispute over payment: the crew members were upset because Winter wouldn't issue them bills for additional money they believed they were owed beyond their agreed shares. Winter himself was unsure if this additional payment had been made. This disagreement led to a serious conflict, with some crew members, believing they were treated unfairly, deciding to leave the plantation. They planned to start fishing on their own, heading westward, though their exact destination was unknown. The mutineers included Lander, suspected to be the ringleader, along with William Ham, Oliver Clarke, John Bellin, William Freethyy, and John Simmons - six men in total. Their return to Trelawny's service was uncertain. After his time on Richmond Island, William moved to Portsmouth, where he married Elizabeth in about 1640. Later, as s a ferryman in York, Maine, he played a crucial role in providing transportation across waterways, facilitating the movement of people and goods, and contributing to the local economy. William Freethy and his wife Elizabeth experienced a series of legal troubles spanning several years, primarily in Portsmouth, where they moved in 1640. Their encounters with the law began with William's indictment by the Saco grand jury for profaning the Sabbath by carrying boards, a violation of His Majesty's law, resulting in a fine of 20 shillings. Further issues arose in August 1643 when William was accused of neglecting religious ordinances and refusing to lead an orderly life among his neighbors. This was followed by another incident in September 1645, where he faced a fine for engaging in a fight. William's legal troubles continued into the latter part of the 1660s. On October 19, 1667, a grand jury member, James Grant, reported that William was drunk. Acknowledging this offense, William was fined five shillings. Despite these challenges, William and Elizabeth were granted land by the town of York on March 18, 1671/72. In the same year, Elizabeth faced her own legal issues. On July 1, 1671, she was convicted of defaming Mrs. Rishworth and excessive drinking. The court fined her 30 shillings for these offenses. However, either due to refusal or neglect on William's part to pay the fine, Elizabeth was subjected to a harsher punishment of fifteen stripes.	tree1
778	I2446	FRENCH	Aaron	29 Mar 1747	8 Mar 1825	0	Private, Capt. Jonathan Brown’s Company, (Southeast Company in Tewksbury), Col. David Green’s (Middlesex Co,) Regiment, which marched on the Alarm of April 19, 1775; service, 3 days.	tree1
779	I2440	FRENCH	Anna	16 Aug 1728	26 Apr 1789	0	Anna is often cited as having died 13 Oct 1759. There was a Hannah Frost who died that day, but I don't think this is Anna. Anna is listed as the mother of a daughter who was born 5 days later (18 Oct) as well as of sons who were born years later.	tree1
780	I2577	FRENCH	Elizabeth	1629	21 Jul 1697	0	Parish church of St Andrews	tree1
781	I2577	FRENCH	Elizabeth	1629	21 Jul 1697	0	2.2 Elizabeth French, b. in England ca. 1629, baptized 5 Sep 1630 in Halstead, England at the parish church of St. Andrews [6], but this record could not be found. She immigrated at age 6 [4] with parents, m1. Robert Eliot/Elliot of Dedham [1] prior to Nov 1658 [4] on 19 Sep 1650 [6], m2. Richard Ellis [1] p. 53. Richard Ellis is listed in his father-in-law’s will. Elizabeth died prior to her father’s death of 1681.	tree1
782	I2497	FRENCH	Joel	22 Sep 1753	17 Oct 1754	0	Private, Capt. Jonathan Brown’s Company ( Southeast Company in Tewksbury), Col. David Green’s (Middlesex Co.) Regiment which marched on Alarm of April 19, 1775; service 2 days	tree1
783	I2637	FRENCH	John	1 Feb 1635	17 Oct 1712	0	A much married man... katpafadded this on 17 Oct 2010 John and Abigail Coggin [dup. Abigall Cogin], June 21, [1659, in Barnstable.]* [Abigail Coggin. MR] John and Hannah Burridge, July 3, 1662.* [Burrage, July 3, 1663. MR] John and Mary Rogers, Jan. 14, 1667.* John and Mary Kittredge [dup. Kitteridg], wid., Jan. 16, 1677-8.* [Kitterige. MR] From Vital Records of Billerica http://ancestorbios.blogspot.com/2012/02/poor-wounded-man-john-french.htmlA Poor Wounded Man – John French B. 1635 in England M. (1) 21 Jun 1659 in Billerica, Massachusetts Wife: Abigail Coggan M. (2) 3 Jul 1662 in Billerica, Massachusetts Wife: Hannah Burrage M. (3) 14 Jan 1668 Wife: Hannah Rogers M. (4) 16 Jan 1678 in Billerica, Massachusetts Wife: Mary (Littlefield) Kittredge D. October 1712 in Billerica, Massachusetts Emigrated: 1635 on the ship Defence John French experienced the hardships of living in 17th century New England, having three wives who died young, and later becoming wounded while fighting Indians. He was born in 1635 in England to William and Elizabeth French, their third child. When he was still a small baby, the family boarded the ship Defence, landing in Boston on October 8th. The family settled in Cambridge, where John grew up. His parents had six more children there. In 1653, the French family moved to the new town of Billerica and on June 21, 1659, John married Abigail Coggan of Barnstable. She died less than three years later at the age of 23, on April 5, 1662. He quickly married again on July 3rd of that year to Hannah Burrage of Charlestown. She bore him two daughters, but died on July 7, 1667 also at the age of 23. John married a third time on January 14, 1668 to Mary Rogers. She had a daughter in 1670 and died on June 16, 1677. Finally, on 16 Jan 1678, he married a fourth wife, Mary (Littlefield) Kittredge, who had been widowed with five young sons. John and Mary had six children together. John served as a corporal in the militia in Billerica during King Phillip's War. On August 2, 1675, the militia met up with Indians in a swamp near Billerica called Quaboag (or Brookfield) where several settlers were killed. John was in the fight, and after shooting an Indian, he got hit by return fire, which cut off one of his thumbs and seriously wounded his body near his shoulder. After the war, John petitioned the town for financial help, describing himself as "a poor wounded man." He was exempted from paying taxes for several years. He was also permitted to sit "at the table with Capt. John Lane and Mr. Crosby" during church services, and his wife Mary was allowed to "sit in the front gallery with Mrs. Foster and those women placed there." It was said that he was "an influential citizen of Billerica and held many town offices from time to time." John died in October of 1712 at the age of 77. Children by Hannah Burrage: 1. Hannah French – B. 14 Dec 1664, Billerica, Massachusetts; D. 9 Oct 1755, Tewksbury, Massachusetts; M. John Kittredge (1666-1714), 3 Apr 1685, Billerica, Massachusetts 2. Abigail French – B. 6 Dec 1665; D. 13 Mar 1723; M. Benjamin Parker (1662-?), 10 Nov 1697 Children by Mary Rogers: 1. Mary French – B. 4 Mar 1670; D. 21 Aug 1740, Billerica, Massachusetts; M. Nathan Shed (1669-?) Children by Mary Littlefield: 1. John French – B. 15 May 1679, Billerica, Massachusetts; M. Ruth Richardson (1685-?), 13 Feb 1707, Billerica, Massachusetts 2. Elizabeth French – B. 24 Jul 1681, Billerica, Massachusetts; D. 30 Sep 1754, Andover, Massachusetts; M. Thomas Abbott, 25 Dec 1706, Billerica, Massachusetts 3. William French – B. 26 Nov 1683, Billerica, Massachusetts; D. 1685, Billerica, Massachusetts 4. Sarah French – B. 15 Sep 1685, Billerica, Massachusetts; M. Joseph Frost (1683-?) 5. Hannah French – B. 18 Feb 1693; D. 12 Dec 1769; M. (1) Jonathan Richardson (?-1720), 1713, Billerica, Massachusetts; (2) Benjamin Frost 6. William French – B. 8 Aug 1687, Billerica, Massachusetts; D. 25 Feb 1746; M. Mehitable Patten (1687-1743), about 1712 Sources: "Lieutenant William French and his Descendants," John M. French, The New England historical and genealogical register, 1890 The Kittredge Family in America, Mabel T. Kittredge, 1936 Billerica, a centennial oration by the Rev. Elias Nason, July 4, 1876, 1876	tree1
784	I2637	FRENCH	John	1 Feb 1635	17 Oct 1712	0	John French, b. in England ca. Feb. 1635, immigrated age 5 mo. [4] with parents, m1. 21 Jun 1659 to Abigail Coggan, dau. of Henry of Barnstable. Abigail d. 5 Apr 1662. John m2. 3 Jul 1663 Hannah, dau. of John Burrage or Burridge of Charlestown, MA. Hannah d. 7 Jul 1667. John m3. 14 Jan 1668 Mary Rogers. Mary d. 16 Jun 1677. John m4. 16 Jan 1677/78 Mary, dau. of Francis Littlefield of Woburn, MA and widow of John Kittredge of Billerica. Mary d. 1719. John was a colonel in the militia, and was often in the Town’s service. He was wounded by the Indians in an assault on Quaboag in 1675, d. Oct 1712. John French, son of William French (1), was born in Eng- land, early in 1635, and was brought over to America by his parents when but five months old. He died in Billerica, Massachusetts, in October, 1712. He resided on the south side of Fox Hill, on the east road. He was a soldier in King Philip’s War, and was a corporal in the fight at Brookfield in 1675. He was wounded in this assault at Quaboag (Brookfield), and in a petition subsequently describes him- self as a “poor wounded” man. He was poor enough for a time, and was harassed by the constable before he recovered from the losses of the war. He was an influential citizen of Billerica, and held many town offices from time to time. He married (first) June 21, 1659, Abigail Coggan, daughter of Henry Coggan, of Barnstable, Massa- chusetts. She died April 5, 1662, aged twenty-four, and he married (second) July 3, 1662, Hannah Burrage, daughter of John Burrage, of Charlestown. She died July 7, 1667, aged twenty-three, and he mar- ried (third) January 14, 1667-68, Mary Rogers, daughter of John Rogers. She died June 16, 1677, and he married (fourth) January 16, 1678, Mary Kittredge, widow of John. She died October 7. 1719, surviving him. Children of the second wife: 1. Hannah, born Janu- ary 20, 1663-64; married John Kittredge. 2. Abigail, born December 6, 1665; married Benjamin Parker. Child of the third wife: 3. Mary, born March 4, 1669^70 ; married Nathan Shed. Children of the fourth wife: 4. John, horn May 15, 1679; mentioned below. 5. Elizabeth, born July 24, 1681 ; married December 25, 1706, Thomas Abbot. 6. William, born November 26, 1683; died April 21, 1685. 7. Sarah, born September 15, 1685; married --------- Flint. 8. William, born August 8, 1687. 9. Hannah, born February 18, 1692-93; married Jonathan Richardson and Benjamin Frost. A descendant of John French, named William French, a resident of Dummerston in the New Hampshire grants, was the celebrated victim of the Westminster massacre in 1775. As this was the direct result of the first organized resistance to British authority in the American colonies, William French has been claimed as the first martyr to the cause of American Independence. On his gravestone is this quaint inscription: In memory of William French Son of Mr. Nathaniel French, Who was shot at Westminster, March ye 13th. 1775, by the hands of Cruel Ministerial tools Of Georg ye 3d, in the Corthouse at 11 a’clock At Night in the 23d year of his Age. HFRF WILLIAM FRENCH his Body lies for Murder his Blood for Vengeance Cries King Georg the third his Tory Crew that with a Bawl his Head Shot threw For Liberty and his Countrys Good he lost his Life his dearest blood.	tree1
785	I2646	FRENCH	John	15 May 1679	17 Dec 1745	0	Age: 0	tree1
786	I412	FRENCH	Judith L.	20 Mar 1811	Aft 1860	0	https://www.evernote.com/shard/s142/sh/4771f6ae-f35b-40ef-a021-4144f2dea77b/e10b6cc25d41474131dd31fc0808dd23	tree1
787	I2648	FRENCH	Mary	Jan 1633	27 May 1672	0	Died in childbrith; son Joseph either her 12th or 14th child	tree1
788	I2648	FRENCH	Mary	Jan 1633	27 May 1672	0	2.3 Mary French, b. in England ca. Jan 1633, immigrated age 2 1/2 [4] with parents, baptized between two and three years of age at her father’s "joyning", m. Jonathan Hyde, d. 27 May 1672 at the birth of her son Joseph, who was her 12th or 14th child. First child was Jonathan Jr. who was mentioned in William (1) will along with his father, Jonathan Hyde Sr., therefore, both were living in 1681.	tree1
789	I2454	FRENCH	Nancy	22 Nov 1807	10 Jan 1886	0	Heart disease	tree1
790	I2593	FRENCH	Nehemiah	4 Apr 1755		0	Private, Capt. Jonathan Brown’s Co. (Southeast Co.. in Tewksbury), Col. David Green’s (Middlesex Co.) which marched on the Alarm of April 19, 1775, service; 2 days.	tree1
791	I2493	FRENCH	Reuben	15 May 1741	26 Nov 1808	0	Private , Capt. Jonathan Brown’s Co. (Southeast Co. in Twksbury), Col. David Green’s (Middlesex County) Regiment which marched on the Alarm of April 19, of April 19, 1775; service 2 days.	tree1
792	I2453	FRENCH	Ruth	22 Jun 1745		0	Ruth and her husband Samuel were 1st cousins	tree1
793	I2453	FRENCH	Ruth	22 Jun 1745		0	I do believe her maiden name was French as well as her married name.	tree1
794	I2455	FRENCH	Solomon	11 Mar 1736	27 Mar 1803	0	Solomon and his wife Ruth were paternal 1st cousins	tree1
795	I2579	FRENCH	William	6 Apr 1606	20 Nov 1681	0	In the winter of 1634 he sailed in the "Defense" from Hartwick, but the vessel was driven back by storms and the journey was postponed until summer. Sailing once more proved perilous for the ship sprang a leak, but arrived safely at Boston, Ma. on October 3rd, 1635.	tree1
796	I2579	FRENCH	William	6 Apr 1606	20 Nov 1681	0	Evidence of his activity in the cause of Indian instruction is found in a letter written by him to "a godly friend in England," the famous tract entitled "Strength out of Weakness" published in London and re-printed by the Boston Historical Society, (Mass. Hist. Soc. Coll., 3d S. vol. iv. p. 149-196) in which he gives a detailed account of the testimony of an Indian convert.	tree1
797	I2579	FRENCH	William	6 Apr 1606	20 Nov 1681	0	To this genealogical tragedy of errors several professional and amateur genealogists have contributed by stating that Lieut. William French of Cambridge was baptized in Halstead, Essex Co., England, March 15, 1603 and was descended, through three generations of the name of Thomas, from Thomas Frenche, the elder, of Wethersfield, County Essex England, who died in 1599. Yet Mrs. Elizabeth (French) Bartlett, descendant of Lieut. William French, and "Record Searcher in England for the Committee on English Research of the New England Historic Genealogical Society, 1908-1917," published in New England Historical & Genealogical Register, Vol 65 pp. 284-286, proof that the William French who was baptized March 15, 1603, in Halstead, Essex Co., England, died in London in 1621, unmarried, and that his estate was administered by his brother, John, and then his brother, Edward, when John died, and then sister Elianor when Edward died.	tree1
798	I2579	FRENCH	William	6 Apr 1606	20 Nov 1681	0	The official website of the surname French has excellent information on the French family including Thomas French. http://www.frenchfamilyassoc.com/FFA/CHARTSWEB/ChartEB.htm LIEUT. WILLIAM FRENCH Immigrant in the "Defence" 1635 from Hartwick Lieut. William French or Frenche, tailor, son of Thomas and Anne French, born 15 March 1603 at Halstead, Co. Essex, England, died 20 Nov 1681 aged 78 Billerica, Middlesex Co., Ma. William married 1st in England, Elizabeth ( ), born 1603 Canturbury, England and died 31 March 1668 at Cambridge, Ma. The Abridged Compendium of American Genealogy by F. A. Virkus, v. 7, p. 852 says William French's wife was Elizabeth Godfrey. William married 2nd to Mary (Lathrop) Stearns, the daughter of Thomas Lathrop of Barnstable, and the widow of John Stearns, she later married Isaac Mixter. William, as shown by the record in the custom house, came with his family in the Defense from London, England in 1635 when he was aged 32, wife Elizabeth 30, Francis 10, Elizabeth 6, Marie 2 1/2, John 5 mo's. In the winter of 1634 he sailed in the "Defense" from Hartwick, but the vessel was driven back by storms and the journey was postponed until summer. Sailing once more proved perilous for the ship sprang a leak, but arrived safely at Boston, Ma. on October 3rd, 1635. Admitted freeman 1636. Educator. He settled first at Newtown where he purchased land in 1639, now called Cambridge. When the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company in Boston was organized William was an early member and held the rank of Junior Sergeant in 1643, First Sergeant in 1646, and Ensign in 1650. He also became a member of the militia company at Cambridge of which he was made Lieutenant on March 26, 1647, and later Captain. In 1652/3 he removed to Billerica, eighteen miles north of Boston, where he was one of the original proprietors. Appointed to solemnize marriages. He held many offices of trust, showing that much confidence was placed in him when to hold office was to bear great responsibility. In 1659 he was chosen "to sit in the Deacon's seat", and appointed comitioner to establish the cuntry rates. In 1660 he was one of the first selectmen and served nine years. In 1661 he served on a committee to examine children and servants in "reading, religion, and the catechism." In 1660 he was the first Deputy or Representative of Billerica in the General Court at Boston, taking his seat in 1663. Evidence of his activity in the cause of Indian instruction is found in a letter written by him to "a godly friend in England," the famous tract entitled "Strength out of Weakness" published in London and re-printed by the Boston Historical Society, (Mass. Hist. Soc. Coll., 3d S. vol. iv. p. 149-196) in which he gives a detailed account of the testimony of an Indian convert. His land in the town amounted to two hundred and fifty acres, which were increased by subsequent allotments in later divisions. Children: of William and Elizabeth French FRANCIS b. Eng. abt 1624, m. Lydia Bunnell Elizabeth b. Eng. abt. 1629, m. Robert Eliot of Dedham Mary b. Eng. abt. Jan 1633, m. Nathaniel Dunkler John b. Eng. abt Feb 1635, bp. by Mr. Hooker in Cambridge m. Abigail Coggan Sarah b. Cambridge March 1638, prob. d. young Jacob b. Cambridge 16 March 1640, d. 20 May 1713 aged 73 Billerica, m. Mary Champney Hannah b. Cambridge 12 April 1641, d. 20 June 1642 Hannah b. Cambridge 16 Feb 1644, m. 6 Sept 1661 John Brackett, had nine ch. Samuel b. Cambridge 3 Dec 1645, d. 15 July 1646 Samuel b. abt 1648, m. Sarah Cummings Children: of William and Mary French Mary b. Billerica 3 Apr 1670, m. Mr. Sharp Sarah b. 29 Oct 1671, m. Joseph Crosby, had twelve ch. Abigail b. 14 Apr 1673, d. 13 Apr 1674 Hannah b. 25 Jan 1676, m. John Childs Contact: Susan Dorris dorris@onecliq.net IMMIGRANT ANCESTORLIEUT. WILLIAM FRENCHImmigrant in the "Defence" 1635 from Hartwick Lieut. William French or Frenche, tailor, son of Thomas and Anne French, born 15 March 1603 at Halstead, Co. Essex, England, died 20 Nov 1681 aged 78 Billerica, Middlesex Co., Ma. William married 1st in England, Elizabeth ( ), born 1603 Canturbury, England and died 31 March 1668 at Cambridge, Ma. The Abridged Compendium of American Genealogy by F. A. Virkus, v. 7, p. 852 says William French's wife was Elizabeth Godfrey. William married 2nd to Mary (Lathrop) Stearns, the daughter of Thomas Lathrop of Barnstable, and the widow of John Stearns, she later married Isaac Mixter. William, as shown by the record in the custom house, came with his family in the Defense from London, England in 1635 when he was aged 32, wife Elizabeth 30, Francis 10, Elizabeth 6, Marie 2 1/2, John 5 mo's. In the winter of 1634 he sailed in the "Defense" from Hartwick, but the vessel was driven back by storms and the journey was postponed until summer. Sailing once more proved perilous for the ship sprang a leak, but arrived safely at Boston, Ma. on October 3rd, 1635. Admitted freeman 1636. Educator. He settled first at Newtown where he purchased land in 1639, now called Cambridge. When the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company in Boston was organized William was an early member and held the rank of Junior Sergeant in 1643, First Sergeant in 1646, and Ensign in 1650. He also became a member of the militia company at Cambridge of which he was made Lieutenant on March 26, 1647, and later Captain. In 1652/3 he removed to Billerica, eighteen miles north of Boston, where he was one of the original proprietors. Appointed to solemnize marriages. He held many offices of trust, showing that much confidence was placed in him when to hold office was to bear great responsibility. In 1659 he was chosen "to sit in the Deacon's seat", and appointed comitioner to establish the cuntry rates. In 1660 he was one of the first selectmen and served nine years. In 1661 he served on a committee to examine children and servants in "reading, religion, and the catechism." In 1660 he was the first Deputy or Representative of Billerica in the General Court at Boston, taking his seat in 1663. Evidence of his activity in the cause of Indian instruction is found in a letter written by him to "a godly friend in England," the famous tract entitled "Strength out of Weakness" published in London and re-printed by the Boston Historical Society, (Mass. Hist. Soc. Coll., 3d S. vol. iv. p. 149-196) in which he gives a detailed account of the testimony of an Indian convert. His land in the town amounted to two hundred and fifty acres, which were increased by subsequent allotments in later divisions. Children: of William and Elizabeth French FRANCIS b. Eng. abt 1624, m. Lydia Bunnell Elizabeth b. Eng. abt. 1629, m. Robert Eliot of Dedham Mary b. Eng. abt. Jan 1633, m. Nathaniel Dunkler John b. Eng. abt Feb 1635, bp. by Mr. Hooker in Cambridge m. Abigail Coggan Sarah b. Cambridge March 1638, prob. d. young Jacob b. Cambridge 16 March 1640, d. 20 May 1713 aged 73 Billerica, m. Mary Champney Hannah b. Cambridge 12 April 1641, d. 20 June 1642 Hannah b. Cambridge 16 Feb 1644, m. 6 Sept 1661 John Brackett, had nine ch. Samuel b. Cambridge 3 Dec 1645, d. 15 July 1646 Samuel b. abt 1648, m. Sarah Cummings Children: of William and Mary French Mary b. Billerica 3 Apr 1670, m. Mr. Sharp Sarah b. 29 Oct 1671, m. Joseph Crosby, had twelve ch. Abigail b. 14 Apr 1673, d. 13 Apr 1674 Hannah b. 25 Jan 1676, m. John Childs Contact: Susan Dorris dorris@onecliq.net Back http://www.usgennet.org/usa/il/topic/history/FrenchWilliam.html Found here: http://ntgen.tripod.com/bw/french_index.html Note: References below to "TGM" are for the "The Great Migration", Vol 2, sketch of William French, released in 2001, by Anderson, Sanborn and Sanborn. This is the latest and greatest material on William French of Cambridge. Origins The origins of William French are unknown. I quote another researcher: "There are so many discrepancies and suppositions concerning the English ancestry of William FRENCH that it is best to omit all references to possibilities until such time as the conflicts are resolved." He definitely was not the William French reported in earlier genealogies as baptized in Halstead, Essex, England, on 15 Mar 1603; as a 1637 London, England, will for another William French has been found and proved to be the one born in Halstead. See NEHGR 65:284-86 and TGM. His origins are reported as unknown in TGM. Top of Page The Immigrant Born: About 1603-5. Per reference in his will that he was 76 when he made his will in 1679 = 1603. Age on passenger list was 30 in 1635 = 1605. Immigrated: 1635 on the ship Defence, probably with first wife, Elizabeth (___) and four children, ages 5 months to age 10. Embarked probably Harwich, England August 10, 1635, landed Boston, October 2, 1635. On Cambridge Freeman's list of 3 Mar 1635/6. See passenger list of the Defence Note William is listed in a different section from his family. Note he is shown as servant to Roger Harlakenden. I haven't learned what that was about.... Also note that an Elizabeth French, aged 30, was named once with children and no father; and an Eliza French, aged 32, was named in a different place, directly under William French, servant of Roger Harlankenden... I haven't learned what that is about, either. Was she listed twice? A different woman?? The children listed here do appear to be confirmed later in his will, so this does appear to be his family, but the presentation in this passenger list does raise some questions. This situation is not mentioned in TGM, leading me to believe the above may be a transcription error and that there was only one Elizabeth Lathrop listed on that list. Occupation: Tailor (TGM) Residence: Landed at Boston, moved within days to Cambridge (1635). Was then one of the founders of Billerica, Middlesex Co, Mass and removed there probably about 1652. (Billerica was called the Shawhine Grant until 1655.) On Freeman's list of 03/03/1635/36. Spouse: He was married twice: 1) Elizabeth, identity unknown, born about 1605 (aged 30-32 on Defence passenger list, England, died March 31, 1668, in Billerica, Mass. She was about 63 years of age when she died. Ten children born from about 1624-1648.(I have seen references to her surname as both Godfrey and Symmes, but TGM reports her identity as unknown. There was a Sarah Simes on the Defence passenger list with them.) 2) Mary Lathrop (Thomas2, John1), born October 04, 1640 in Barnstable, Mass, her second husband. She was 37 years younger than William French! They married May 06, 1669, when William was approaching 70 years of age, and then they had four children! Mary first married John Stearns and had five children with him. So this household had 14 children and five step-children!! Mary married Isaac Mixer, Jr. on June 29, 1687, as her third husband, after William French died. Mary outlived Isaac Mixer, Jr. and died sometime after 1735, after she was 95 years old. Titles, Positions: Was a Selectman for Billerica for nine years. He was sometimes referred to as "Lieut", a role he had in the militia. Died: November 20, 1681, in Billerica, Middlesex Co, Mass Will/Estate: His will was made June 5, 1679, inventory taken November 20, 1681. William had already provided for his children prior to the time of writing his will. However he did make bequests to his grandchildren. The children from his second marriage, and his wife, participated in the division of the estate. From: The History of Peter Parker and Sarah Ruggles, p 208: (Midd. V: 276-278) I William French of Billerica aged about seaventy& six I have already given to all my children that have been already married their portions, I add as followeth to eldest son John French, to Wm. the son of Jacob French, to Elizabeth ye Daughter Richard Ellis, to Jonathan ye son of Jonathan Hides, to ye eldest Daughter of Jonathan Peake, to Marah ye Daughter of Jno. Brackett, which are all my grandchildren. Remainder unto my wife, & to those children born to me by her. Wife and Jacob French to be executors. Made 5 June 1679. Presnce of Samll. Whiting Junr., Jonath. Danforth Sen. Proved 20 Dec. 1681. 8 Dec. 1681. Mary French Executrix to ye Estate of Lt. French her dec'd Husband made oath to Inventory. (Midd. XVI: 413) Lt William French of Billerica (Who deceased 20 Nov. 1682) Division of his Estate, the widow one third, to Mary French (now Sharp) eldest dau., to Sarah French, to Hannah French. Dated 6 Dec. 1687. The widow's part was set off from the estate of her 1st husband John Stearns, deceased, consented to by Sarah Crosby, Mary Dunklin, Hannah Child, daughters of the within mentioned Wm. French. Dated 20 Aug. 1722. Probable Siblings: William French administered the estate of John French of Cambridge and was named his brother in those probate records. This John was also a tailor. He may also have been a brother to Richard French of Cambridge. (Lived in vicinity, named a son Samuel, as did William, etc - but no firm proof). Richard is probably the father of Samuel French who married Sarah Cummings (see below and TGM.) On-line biographies of William French: Biography of William French at the Michael Roman Page. Biography of William French and one line of his family, along with English ancestry, at the Stephen Lawson page. (This page has moved. If anyone know where it moved to, please write me. Thanks.) Top of Page Notable Kin Notable French's include Samuel Morse, inventor of the telegraph and Charles Goodyear, discoverer of the vulcanization process for rubber. Top of Page Sources and Resources Primary Source The primary source for William French is the recently released "The Great Migration", 2001, Vol 2, pp 588-593, by Anderson, Sanborn, and Sanborn. This is a series of books that follows the "The Great Migration Begins", and is a part of the Great Migration Study Project of the NEHGS. Other Sources Ancestry of Hattie Whitney, Michael Roman The History of Peter Parker and Sarah Ruggles, 1913 History of Cambridge, Massachusetts 1630-1877, Pg 278 Top of Page Notes, Questions, Errata There were several other New England immigrants with the surname French. Be careful out there... lots of opportunity for mixups. NOT son of Thomas French of Halstead, Essex, England. That Thomas French did have a William French born in 1603, but he has been proven to be a William French who died in England and is not our immigrant. See NEHGR 65:284-86 and TGM. Three Daughters Named Hannah William had three daughters named Hannah. The first, born 1641, died young. The second, still from the first wife, born 1644, lived to adulthood and married John Brackett. But, she died in 1674, and he then named yet another daughter Hannah, this one from the second wife, Mary Lathrop. She was born 1676, married John Child, and is my ancestor. Samuel French md Sarah Cummings, was probably son of Richard French - not William. From The History of Peter Parker and Sarah Ruggles, 1913. p 207, which shows Samuel as a son of Richard and Martha (___) French of Cambridge: "Proof has not been discovered, of the statement found among written authorities, that Lieut. Samuel French, who m. Sarah Cummings, is the son of Lieut. William and 1st wife Elizabeth (Symmes?) French of Billerica. From the Cambridge Records we find that [a] Samuel, the son of William and Elizabeth French, was b. 3 Dec. 1645, and bur. 15 July 1646, and no other son by the name of Samuel was born to William French in Cambridge. But the Cambridge records do show that Richard and Martha French had a son Samuel b. 13 July 1653." This conclusion is shared by TGM. Top of Page Subsequent Generations Thomas French family taken by Indians at the Deerfield Massacre. Thomas French's wife was killed as the Indians took a group of 112 English citizens north to Canada. Thomas and two children were "redeemed" (I guess that means released, probably for ransom, but I don't see details.), two children married Canadians (I don't know if that means they were "sold" to French Canadians or what happened there), and one lived an Indian life. I had this reference here when I thought, based on Bullard, that this Thomas was a grandson of John French of Cambridge, brother of William French of Billerica. It now seems that most believe him to be a descendant of Thomas and Susan (Riddesdale) French of Ipswich (Thomas > John > Thomas m Mary Catlin). If that is true, he's not related to us, but I will leave this link here anyway, as it is fascinating history. Top of Page Children of William French and of Mary Lathrop: Descendants of William French 1 William French 1604 - 1681 .. +Elizabeth (___) 1605 - 1668 ........... 2 Francis French 1624 - 1681 ............... +Lydia Bunnell 1643 - 1708 ........... 2 Elizabeth French 1629 - 1681 ............... +Richard Ellis 1629 - 1694 ........... 2 Mary French 1633 - 1672 ............... +Jonathan Hyde 1626 - 1711 ........... 2 John French 1635 - 1712 ............... +Abigail Coggan 1637 - 1662 ........... 2nd Wife of John French: ............... +Hannah Burrage 1643 - 1667 ........... 3rd Wife of John French: ............... +Mary Rogers 1650 - 1677 ........... 4th Wife of John French: ............... +Mary Littlefield 1640 - 1719 ........... 2 Sarah French 1638 - 1694 ............... +Jonathan Peake 1637 - 1700 ........... 2 Jacob French 1640 - 1713 ............... +Mary Champney 1640 - 1681 ........... 2nd Wife of Jacob French: ............... +Mary Convers 1650 - 1686 ........... 3rd Wife of Jacob French: ............... +Mary (___) 1650 - 1709 ........... 4th Wife of Jacob French: << this wife not in TGM ............... +Ruth (___) 1650 - 1730 ........... 2 Hannah (1) French 1641 - 1642 ........... 2 Hannah French 1644 - 1674 ............... +John Brackett 1637 - 1686 ........... 2 Samuel French 1645 - 1646 2nd Wife of William French: .. +Mary Lathrop 1640 - 1735 ........... 2 Mary French 1670 - ............... +Robert Sharp 1670 - ........... 2nd Husband of Mary French: ............... +Nathaniel Duncklee 1670 - ........... 2 Sarah French 1671 - ............... +Joseph Crosby 1671 - ........... 2 Abigail French 1673 - 1674 ........... 2 Hannah French 1676 - 1766 << my ancestor ............... +John Child 1669 - 1748 Since I am also descended from Mary Lathrop, I am half cousin to the descendants of Mary from her first marriage to John Stearns: Descendants of Mary Lathrop Descendants of Mary Lathrop 1 Mary Lathrop 1640 - 1735 .. +John Stearns 1630 - 1669 ........... 2 Isaac (1) Stearns 1658 - 1659 ........... 2 Samuel Stearns 1659 - 1735 ........... 2 Isaac Stearns 1661 - 1739 ............... +Mary Merriam 1664 - ........... 2 Nathaniel Stearns 1663 - ........... 2 Thomas Stearns 1665 - 1696 ............... +Rebecca Chamberlain 1662 - 2nd Husband of Mary Lathrop: .. +William French 1604 - 1681 ........... 2 Mary French 1670 - ............... +Robert Sharp 1670 - ........... 2nd Husband of Mary French: ............... +Nathaniel Duncklee 1670 - ........... 2 Sarah French 1671 - ............... +Joseph Crosby 1671 - ........... 2 Abigail French 1673 - 1674 ........... 2 Hannah French 1676 - 1766 ............... +John Child 1669 - 1748 3rd Husband of Mary Lathrop: .. +Isaac Mixer 1630 - 1716 +Birth: 1605 Essex, EnglandDeath: Nov. 20, 1681 Billerica Middlesex County Massachusetts, USA There are many discrepancies regarding William's parentage, so it is best not to speculate. He is an immigrant ancestor who arrived aboard the "Defence", Edward Bostock, Master, which had left England after 18 July 1635 and arrived in Boston 8 October 1635. WILLIAM FRENCH, came to New England in the ship Defence in 1635, with his wife Elizabeth and four children, Francis aged 10, Elizabeth 6, Mary 2 1/2, and John 5 months. William French is entered on the passenger list as servant to Mr. Harlakenden, "no doubt for purposes of deception," Savage says. Emigration at that time was not the unrestricted right of English Puritans. The child John was baptized on their arrival at New Towne (Cambridge) by the Rev. Thomas Hooker, a fellow-passenger whose name does not appear on the shipping list, since his departure, had it been known to the authorities, would no doubt have been prevented. In the French family at Cambridge other children were born: Sarah, Jacob, two Hannahs, a Samuel who died young, and a second Samuel, whose birth is not recorded. William French was made a freeman of the Massachusetts Bay Colony the 3rd of March 1635/6, and a member of the Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company in 1638. His home in Cambridge was on what is now the westerly side of Dunster Street about midway between Harvard Square and Mt. Auburn Street. He bought this property in 1639 and sold it to William Barrett June 10th, 1656. Settlement of Billerica (Shawshin) was begun about 1653 and William French was one of the first proprietors. The town was incorporated in 1655 and in the printed account of the celebration of the two hundredth anniversary it is stated (giving as reference Rec. Massachusetts vol. iv, pt. 2, p. 383) that in 1659 Lt. French, for Billerica and Chelmsford, was empowered to join in marriage within those towns or limits such persons as shall desire the same, being authorized by law. In March 1659/60, when the first selectmen (townsmen was the old name) were chosen, he was one of the five. As Lieutenant in the local militia he did garrison duty during King Philip's war. The official website of the surname French has excellent information on the French family including Thomas French. http://www.frenchfamilyassoc.com/FFA/CHARTSWEB/ChartEB.htm LIEUT. WILLIAM FRENCH Immigrant in the "Defence" 1635 from Hartwick Lieut. William French or Frenche, tailor, son of Thomas and Anne French, born 15 March 1603 at Halstead, Co. Essex, England, died 20 Nov 1681 aged 78 Billerica, Middlesex Co., Ma. William married 1st in England, Elizabeth ( ), born 1603 Canturbury, England and died 31 March 1668 at Cambridge, Ma. The Abridged Compendium of American Genealogy by F. A. Virkus, v. 7, p. 852 says William French's wife was Elizabeth Godfrey. William married 2nd to Mary (Lathrop) Stearns, the daughter of Thomas Lathrop of Barnstable, and the widow of John Stearns, she later married Isaac Mixter. William, as shown by the record in the custom house, came with his family in the Defense from London, England in 1635 when he was aged 32, wife Elizabeth 30, Francis 10, Elizabeth 6, Marie 2 1/2, John 5 mo's. In the winter of 1634 he sailed in the "Defense" from Hartwick, but the vessel was driven back by storms and the journey was postponed until summer. Sailing once more proved perilous for the ship sprang a leak, but arrived safely at Boston, Ma. on October 3rd, 1635. Admitted freeman 1636. Educator. He settled first at Newtown where he purchased land in 1639, now called Cambridge. When the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company in Boston was organized William was an early member and held the rank of Junior Sergeant in 1643, First Sergeant in 1646, and Ensign in 1650. He also became a member of the militia company at Cambridge of which he was made Lieutenant on March 26, 1647, and later Captain. In 1652/3 he removed to Billerica, eighteen miles north of Boston, where he was one of the original proprietors. Appointed to solemnize marriages. He held many offices of trust, showing that much confidence was placed in him when to hold office was to bear great responsibility. In 1659 he was chosen "to sit in the Deacon's seat", and appointed comitioner to establish the cuntry rates. In 1660 he was one of the first selectmen and served nine years. In 1661 he served on a committee to examine children and servants in "reading, religion, and the catechism." In 1660 he was the first Deputy or Representative of Billerica in the General Court at Boston, taking his seat in 1663. Evidence of his activity in the cause of Indian instruction is found in a letter written by him to "a godly friend in England," the famous tract entitled "Strength out of Weakness" published in London and re-printed by the Boston Historical Society, (Mass. Hist. Soc. Coll., 3d S. vol. iv. p. 149-196) in which he gives a detailed account of the testimony of an Indian convert. His land in the town amounted to two hundred and fifty acres, which were increased by subsequent allotments in later divisions. Children: of William and Elizabeth French FRANCIS b. Eng. abt 1624, m. Lydia Bunnell Elizabeth b. Eng. abt. 1629, m. Robert Eliot of Dedham Mary b. Eng. abt. Jan 1633, m. Nathaniel Dunkler John b. Eng. abt Feb 1635, bp. by Mr. Hooker in Cambridge m. Abigail Coggan Sarah b. Cambridge March 1638, prob. d. young Jacob b. Cambridge 16 March 1640, d. 20 May 1713 aged 73 Billerica, m. Mary Champney Hannah b. Cambridge 12 April 1641, d. 20 June 1642 Hannah b. Cambridge 16 Feb 1644, m. 6 Sept 1661 John Brackett, had nine ch. Samuel b. Cambridge 3 Dec 1645, d. 15 July 1646 Samuel b. abt 1648, m. Sarah Cummings Children: of William and Mary French Mary b. Billerica 3 Apr 1670, m. Mr. Sharp Sarah b. 29 Oct 1671, m. Joseph Crosby, had twelve ch. Abigail b. 14 Apr 1673, d. 13 Apr 1674 Hannah b. 25 Jan 1676, m. John Childs Contact: Susan Dorris dorris@onecliq.net IMMIGRANT ANCESTORLIEUT. WILLIAM FRENCHImmigrant in the "Defence" 1635 from Hartwick Lieut. William French or Frenche, tailor, son of Thomas and Anne French, born 15 March 1603 at Halstead, Co. Essex, England, died 20 Nov 1681 aged 78 Billerica, Middlesex Co., Ma. William married 1st in England, Elizabeth ( ), born 1603 Canturbury, England and died 31 March 1668 at Cambridge, Ma. The Abridged Compendium of American Genealogy by F. A. Virkus, v. 7, p. 852 says William French's wife was Elizabeth Godfrey. William married 2nd to Mary (Lathrop) Stearns, the daughter of Thomas Lathrop of Barnstable, and the widow of John Stearns, she later married Isaac Mixter. William, as shown by the record in the custom house, came with his family in the Defense from London, England in 1635 when he was aged 32, wife Elizabeth 30, Francis 10, Elizabeth 6, Marie 2 1/2, John 5 mo's. In the winter of 1634 he sailed in the "Defense" from Hartwick, but the vessel was driven back by storms and the journey was postponed until summer. Sailing once more proved perilous for the ship sprang a leak, but arrived safely at Boston, Ma. on October 3rd, 1635. Admitted freeman 1636. Educator. He settled first at Newtown where he purchased land in 1639, now called Cambridge. When the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company in Boston was organized William was an early member and held the rank of Junior Sergeant in 1643, First Sergeant in 1646, and Ensign in 1650. He also became a member of the militia company at Cambridge of which he was made Lieutenant on March 26, 1647, and later Captain. In 1652/3 he removed to Billerica, eighteen miles north of Boston, where he was one of the original proprietors. Appointed to solemnize marriages. He held many offices of trust, showing that much confidence was placed in him when to hold office was to bear great responsibility. In 1659 he was chosen "to sit in the Deacon's seat", and appointed comitioner to establish the cuntry rates. In 1660 he was one of the first selectmen and served nine years. In 1661 he served on a committee to examine children and servants in "reading, religion, and the catechism." In 1660 he was the first Deputy or Representative of Billerica in the General Court at Boston, taking his seat in 1663. Evidence of his activity in the cause of Indian instruction is found in a letter written by him to "a godly friend in England," the famous tract entitled "Strength out of Weakness" published in London and re-printed by the Boston Historical Society, (Mass. Hist. Soc. Coll., 3d S. vol. iv. p. 149-196) in which he gives a detailed account of the testimony of an Indian convert. His land in the town amounted to two hundred and fifty acres, which were increased by subsequent allotments in later divisions. Children: of William and Elizabeth French FRANCIS b. Eng. abt 1624, m. Lydia Bunnell Elizabeth b. Eng. abt. 1629, m. Robert Eliot of Dedham Mary b. Eng. abt. Jan 1633, m. Nathaniel Dunkler John b. Eng. abt Feb 1635, bp. by Mr. Hooker in Cambridge m. Abigail Coggan Sarah b. Cambridge March 1638, prob. d. young Jacob b. Cambridge 16 March 1640, d. 20 May 1713 aged 73 Billerica, m. Mary Champney Hannah b. Cambridge 12 April 1641, d. 20 June 1642 Hannah b. Cambridge 16 Feb 1644, m. 6 Sept 1661 John Brackett, had nine ch. Samuel b. Cambridge 3 Dec 1645, d. 15 July 1646 Samuel b. abt 1648, m. Sarah Cummings Children: of William and Mary French Mary b. Billerica 3 Apr 1670, m. Mr. Sharp Sarah b. 29 Oct 1671, m. Joseph Crosby, had twelve ch. Abigail b. 14 Apr 1673, d. 13 Apr 1674 Hannah b. 25 Jan 1676, m. John Childs Contact: Susan Dorris dorris@onecliq.net Back http://www.usgennet.org/usa/il/topic/history/FrenchWilliam.html Found here: http://ntgen.tripod.com/bw/french_index.html Note: References below to "TGM" are for the "The Great Migration", Vol 2, sketch of William French, released in 2001, by Anderson, Sanborn and Sanborn. This is the latest and greatest material on William French of Cambridge. Origins The origins of William French are unknown. I quote another researcher: "There are so many discrepancies and suppositions concerning the English ancestry of William FRENCH that it is best to omit all references to possibilities until such time as the conflicts are resolved." He definitely was not the William French reported in earlier genealogies as baptized in Halstead, Essex, England, on 15 Mar 1603; as a 1637 London, England, will for another William French has been found and proved to be the one born in Halstead. See NEHGR 65:284-86 and TGM. His origins are reported as unknown in TGM. Top of Page The Immigrant Born: About 1603-5. Per reference in his will that he was 76 when he made his will in 1679 = 1603. Age on passenger list was 30 in 1635 = 1605. Immigrated: 1635 on the ship Defence, probably with first wife, Elizabeth (___) and four children, ages 5 months to age 10. Embarked probably Harwich, England August 10, 1635, landed Boston, October 2, 1635. On Cambridge Freeman's list of 3 Mar 1635/6. See passenger list of the Defence Note William is listed in a different section from his family. Note he is shown as servant to Roger Harlakenden. I haven't learned what that was about.... Also note that an Elizabeth French, aged 30, was named once with children and no father; and an Eliza French, aged 32, was named in a different place, directly under William French, servant of Roger Harlankenden... I haven't learned what that is about, either. Was she listed twice? A different woman?? The children listed here do appear to be confirmed later in his will, so this does appear to be his family, but the presentation in this passenger list does raise some questions. This situation is not mentioned in TGM, leading me to believe the above may be a transcription error and that there was only one Elizabeth Lathrop listed on that list. Occupation: Tailor (TGM) Residence: Landed at Boston, moved within days to Cambridge (1635). Was then one of the founders of Billerica, Middlesex Co, Mass and removed there probably about 1652. (Billerica was called the Shawhine Grant until 1655.) On Freeman's list of 03/03/1635/36. Spouse: He was married twice: 1) Elizabeth, identity unknown, born about 1605 (aged 30-32 on Defence passenger list, England, died March 31, 1668, in Billerica, Mass. She was about 63 years of age when she died. Ten children born from about 1624-1648.(I have seen references to her surname as both Godfrey and Symmes, but TGM reports her identity as unknown. There was a Sarah Simes on the Defence passenger list with them.) 2) Mary Lathrop (Thomas2, John1), born October 04, 1640 in Barnstable, Mass, her second husband. She was 37 years younger than William French! They married May 06, 1669, when William was approaching 70 years of age, and then they had four children! Mary first married John Stearns and had five children with him. So this household had 14 children and five step-children!! Mary married Isaac Mixer, Jr. on June 29, 1687, as her third husband, after William French died. Mary outlived Isaac Mixer, Jr. and died sometime after 1735, after she was 95 years old. Titles, Positions: Was a Selectman for Billerica for nine years. He was sometimes referred to as "Lieut", a role he had in the militia. Died: November 20, 1681, in Billerica, Middlesex Co, Mass Will/Estate: His will was made June 5, 1679, inventory taken November 20, 1681. William had already provided for his children prior to the time of writing his will. However he did make bequests to his grandchildren. The children from his second marriage, and his wife, participated in the division of the estate. From: The History of Peter Parker and Sarah Ruggles, p 208: (Midd. V: 276-278) I William French of Billerica aged about seaventy& six I have already given to all my children that have been already married their portions, I add as followeth to eldest son John French, to Wm. the son of Jacob French, to Elizabeth ye Daughter Richard Ellis, to Jonathan ye son of Jonathan Hides, to ye eldest Daughter of Jonathan Peake, to Marah ye Daughter of Jno. Brackett, which are all my grandchildren. Remainder unto my wife, & to those children born to me by her. Wife and Jacob French to be executors. Made 5 June 1679. Presnce of Samll. Whiting Junr., Jonath. Danforth Sen. Proved 20 Dec. 1681. 8 Dec. 1681. Mary French Executrix to ye Estate of Lt. French her dec'd Husband made oath to Inventory. (Midd. XVI: 413) Lt William French of Billerica (Who deceased 20 Nov. 1682) Division of his Estate, the widow one third, to Mary French (now Sharp) eldest dau., to Sarah French, to Hannah French. Dated 6 Dec. 1687. The widow's part was set off from the estate of her 1st husband John Stearns, deceased, consented to by Sarah Crosby, Mary Dunklin, Hannah Child, daughters of the within mentioned Wm. French. Dated 20 Aug. 1722. Probable Siblings: William French administered the estate of John French of Cambridge and was named his brother in those probate records. This John was also a tailor. He may also have been a brother to Richard French of Cambridge. (Lived in vicinity, named a son Samuel, as did William, etc - but no firm proof). Richard is probably the father of Samuel French who married Sarah Cummings (see below and TGM.) On-line biographies of William French: Biography of William French at the Michael Roman Page. Biography of William French and one line of his family, along with English ancestry, at the Stephen Lawson page. (This page has moved. If anyone know where it moved to, please write me. Thanks.) Top of Page Notable Kin Notable French's include Samuel Morse, inventor of the telegraph and Charles Goodyear, discoverer of the vulcanization process for rubber. Top of Page Sources and Resources Primary Source The primary source for William French is the recently released "The Great Migration", 2001, Vol 2, pp 588-593, by Anderson, Sanborn, and Sanborn. This is a series of books that follows the "The Great Migration Begins", and is a part of the Great Migration Study Project of the NEHGS. Other Sources Ancestry of Hattie Whitney, Michael Roman The History of Peter Parker and Sarah Ruggles, 1913 History of Cambridge, Massachusetts 1630-1877, Pg 278 Top of Page Notes, Questions, Errata There were several other New England immigrants with the surname French. Be careful out there... lots of opportunity for mixups. NOT son of Thomas French of Halstead, Essex, England. That Thomas French did have a William French born in 1603, but he has been proven to be a William French who died in England and is not our immigrant. See NEHGR 65:284-86 and TGM. Three Daughters Named Hannah William had three daughters named Hannah. The first, born 1641, died young. The second, still from the first wife, born 1644, lived to adulthood and married John Brackett. But, she died in 1674, and he then named yet another daughter Hannah, this one from the second wife, Mary Lathrop. She was born 1676, married John Child, and is my ancestor. Samuel French md Sarah Cummings, was probably son of Richard French - not William. From The History of Peter Parker and Sarah Ruggles, 1913. p 207, which shows Samuel as a son of Richard and Martha (___) French of Cambridge: "Proof has not been discovered, of the statement found among written authorities, that Lieut. Samuel French, who m. Sarah Cummings, is the son of Lieut. William and 1st wife Elizabeth (Symmes?) French of Billerica. From the Cambridge Records we find that [a] Samuel, the son of William and Elizabeth French, was b. 3 Dec. 1645, and bur. 15 July 1646, and no other son by the name of Samuel was born to William French in Cambridge. But the Cambridge records do show that Richard and Martha French had a son Samuel b. 13 July 1653." This conclusion is shared by TGM. Top of Page Subsequent Generations Thomas French family taken by Indians at the Deerfield Massacre. Thomas French's wife was killed as the Indians took a group of 112 English citizens north to Canada. Thomas and two children were "redeemed" (I guess that means released, probably for ransom, but I don't see details.), two children married Canadians (I don't know if that means they were "sold" to French Canadians or what happened there), and one lived an Indian life. I had this reference here when I thought, based on Bullard, that this Thomas was a grandson of John French of Cambridge, brother of William French of Billerica. It now seems that most believe him to be a descendant of Thomas and Susan (Riddesdale) French of Ipswich (Thomas > John > Thomas m Mary Catlin). If that is true, he's not related to us, but I will leave this link here anyway, as it is fascinating history. Top of Page Children of William French and of Mary Lathrop: Descendants of William French 1 William French 1604 - 1681 .. +Elizabeth (___) 1605 - 1668 ........... 2 Francis French 1624 - 1681 ............... +Lydia Bunnell 1643 - 1708 ........... 2 Elizabeth French 1629 - 1681 ............... +Richard Ellis 1629 - 1694 ........... 2 Mary French 1633 - 1672 ............... +Jonathan Hyde 1626 - 1711 ........... 2 John French 1635 - 1712 ............... +Abigail Coggan 1637 - 1662 ........... 2nd Wife of John French: ............... +Hannah Burrage 1643 - 1667 ........... 3rd Wife of John French: ............... +Mary Rogers 1650 - 1677 ........... 4th Wife of John French: ............... +Mary Littlefield 1640 - 1719 ........... 2 Sarah French 1638 - 1694 ............... +Jonathan Peake 1637 - 1700 ........... 2 Jacob French 1640 - 1713 ............... +Mary Champney 1640 - 1681 ........... 2nd Wife of Jacob French: ............... +Mary Convers 1650 - 1686 ........... 3rd Wife of Jacob French: ............... +Mary (___) 1650 - 1709 ........... 4th Wife of Jacob French: << this wife not in TGM ............... +Ruth (___) 1650 - 1730 ........... 2 Hannah (1) French 1641 - 1642 ........... 2 Hannah French 1644 - 1674 ............... +John Brackett 1637 - 1686 ........... 2 Samuel French 1645 - 1646 2nd Wife of William French: .. +Mary Lathrop 1640 - 1735 ........... 2 Mary French 1670 - ............... +Robert Sharp 1670 - ........... 2nd Husband of Mary French: ............... +Nathaniel Duncklee 1670 - ........... 2 Sarah French 1671 - ............... +Joseph Crosby 1671 - ........... 2 Abigail French 1673 - 1674 ........... 2 Hannah French 1676 - 1766 << my ancestor ............... +John Child 1669 - 1748 Since I am also descended from Mary Lathrop, I am half cousin to the descendants of Mary from her first marriage to John Stearns: Descendants of Mary Lathrop Descendants of Mary Lathrop 1 Mary Lathrop 1640 - 1735 .. +John Stearns 1630 - 1669 ........... 2 Isaac (1) Stearns 1658 - 1659 ........... 2 Samuel Stearns 1659 - 1735 ........... 2 Isaac Stearns 1661 - 1739 ............... +Mary Merriam 1664 - ........... 2 Nathaniel Stearns 1663 - ........... 2 Thomas Stearns 1665 - 1696 ............... +Rebecca Chamberlain 1662 - 2nd Husband of Mary Lathrop: .. +William French 1604 - 1681 ........... 2 Mary French 1670 - ............... +Robert Sharp 1670 - ........... 2nd Husband of Mary French: ............... +Nathaniel Duncklee 1670 - ........... 2 Sarah French 1671 - ............... +Joseph Crosby 1671 - ........... 2 Abigail French 1673 - 1674 ........... 2 Hannah French 1676 - 1766 ............... +John Child 1669 - 1748 3rd Husband of Mary Lathrop: .. +Isaac Mixer 1630 - 1716 +Birth: 1605 Essex, EnglandDeath: Nov. 20, 1681 Billerica Middlesex County Massachusetts, USA There are many discrepancies regarding William's parentage, so it is best not to speculate. He is an immigrant ancestor who arrived aboard the "Defence", Edward Bostock, Master, which had left England after 18 July 1635 and arrived in Boston 8 October 1635. WILLIAM FRENCH, came to New England in the ship Defence in 1635, with his wife Elizabeth and four children, Francis aged 10, Elizabeth 6, Mary 2 1/2, and John 5 months. William French is entered on the passenger list as servant to Mr. Harlakenden, "no doubt for purposes of deception," Savage says. Emigration at that time was not the unrestricted right of English Puritans. The child John was baptized on their arrival at New Towne (Cambridge) by the Rev. Thomas Hooker, a fellow-passenger whose name does not appear on the shipping list, since his departure, had it been known to the authorities, would no doubt have been prevented. In the French family at Cambridge other children were born: Sarah, Jacob, two Hannahs, a Samuel who died young, and a second Samuel, whose birth is not recorded. William French was made a freeman of the Massachusetts Bay Colony the 3rd of March 1635/6, and a member of the Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company in 1638. His home in Cambridge was on what is now the westerly side of Dunster Street about midway between Harvard Square and Mt. Auburn Street. He bought this property in 1639 and sold it to William Barrett June 10th, 1656. Settlement of Billerica (Shawshin) was begun about 1653 and William French was one of the first proprietors. The town was incorporated in 1655 and in the printed account of the celebration of the two hundredth anniversary it is stated (giving as reference Rec. Massachusetts vol. iv, pt. 2, p. 383) that in 1659 Lt. French, for Billerica and Chelmsford, was empowered to join in marriage within those towns or limits such persons as shall desire the same, being authorized by law. In March 1659/60, when the first selectmen (townsmen was the old name) were chosen, he was one of the five. As Lieutenant in the local militia he did garrison duty during King Philip's war. William French, the immigrant ancestor of this family, was born in Halsted, County Essex, England, March 15, 1603, and died at Bill- erica, Massachusetts, November 20, 1681, aged seventy-seven. He married ; first) Elizabeth -------, (surname believed to be Symm.es, sister of Rev. Zr.chariah Symmes). He had four children born in England, and came to America in the same ship, the “Defence,” with Rev. Thomas Shepard and his brother Samuel, Roger Harlakenden, and George and Joseph Cooke, in the summer of 1635. He settled first in Cambridge, and in 1652 was one of the original proprietors and first settlers of Billerica. He was lieutenant of the militia, and afterwards captain; was the first man to sit in the “deacon’s seat.” in 1659; commissioner to establish the county rates in 1659; select- man in 1660 and for nine years in all; was on a committee to examine children and servants in reading, religion and the catechism, in 1661 ; wras the first representative or deputy to the general court at Boston, elected in 1660, and taking his seat in 1663. A tract written by him entitled “Strength out of \\ eakness,” in which he gives a detailed account of the testimony of an Indian convert to Christianity, was published in London, and afterward republished in the Massachusetts Historical Society Collections. He bought part of the old Dudley farm in Billerica, and his house stood near the turnpike east of the Bradford road, near Ralph Hill’s House. Hill called him “brother” in his will. He was a tailor by trade. His wife, Elizabeth, died March 31, 1663, and he married (second) May 6, 1669, Mary Stearns, widow of John Stearns, and daughter of Thomas Lathrop, of Barnstable, Massachusetts. His widow married, June 29, 1687, Isaac Mixer, of Watertown. His estate was divided December 6, 1687, between the widow and three daughters-Mary Sharp, and Sarah and Hannah French. Children of William and Elizabeth French: 1. Frances, born about 1625. 2. Elizabeth, born 1629-31; married --------------- Ellis, of Watertown. 3. Mary, born 1633. 4. John, born 1635, mentioned be- low. 5. Sarah, born March, 1638. 6. Jacob, born March 16, 1639-40. 7. Hannah, born February 2, 1641-42; died June 20, following. 8. Samuel, born December 3, 1645; died July 15, 1646. 9. Samuel, born after 1646; pioneer in Dunstable, Massachusetts. Children of William and Mary French: 10. Mary, born April 3, 1670; mar- ried Nathaniel Dundee, n. Sarah, born October 29, 1671 ; married ---------Sharp, who died in military service; married (second) Joseph Crosby. 12. Abigail, born April 14, 1673; died April 13, 1674. 13. Hannah, born January 25, 1675 ; married October 5, 1693, John Child, of Watertown.	tree1
799	I2579	FRENCH	William	6 Apr 1606	20 Nov 1681	0	Lieutenant William French's story begins in the quaint town of Halstead, Essex, England, where he was born on March 15, 1603. His life took a pivotal turn in 1635 when he, his wife Elizabeth, and their young children embarked on the "Defence" for the New World. This journey was not without its trials; the ship faced storms and a perilous leak, but ultimately, they arrived safely in Boston on October 3, 1635. William's life in the New World was one of service and leadership. He first settled in Newtown, now Cambridge, Massachusetts, where he purchased land in 1639. His involvement in the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company in Boston, where he served as Junior Sergeant, First Sergeant, and Ensign, showcased his commitment to the community's defense and governance. In 1652/3, William moved to Billerica, Massachusetts, becoming one of its original proprietors. His roles in the town were varied and significant. He was appointed to solemnize marriages, chosen to sit in the Deacon's seat, and served as a commissioner to establish country rates. As one of the first selectmen, he held a position of trust and responsibility, reflecting the community's confidence in his leadership. William's dedication to education and religious instruction was evident in his service on a committee to examine children and servants in reading, religion, and the catechism. His political involvement extended to being the first Deputy or Representative of Billerica in the General Court at Boston. His first wife, Elizabeth, passed away in 1668, and he later married Mary (Lathrop) Stearns, the widow of John Stearns. This union brought together a large blended family, with children from both marriages. William's commitment to the cause of Indian instruction is highlighted in his letter to a friend in England, which was published as the tract "Strength out of Weakness." This work provided a detailed account of the testimony of an Indian convert, illustrating his interest in cross-cultural relations and religious outreach. William French passed away on November 20, 1681, in Billerica, leaving behind a legacy of public service, community leadership, and a commitment to the betterment of his adopted homeland. His life story is a testament to the challenges and opportunities faced by early American settlers and the significant role they played in shaping the history of the United States.	tree1
800	I2265	FROST	Anna "Nancy"	12 Sep 1787	27 Jul 1861	0	The evidence seems to show that Nancy and Anna Frost are the same person.	tree1

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