HISTORY of
THE COLONY OF NEW HAVEN
To its absorption into
CONNECTICUT

by Edward E. Atwater
with Supplementary History and Personnel of the
Towns of Branford, Guilford, Milford,
Stratford, Norwalk, Southold, etc.

compiled by Robert Atwater Smith
assisted by Bessie E. Beach and Lucy M. Hewitt

Meriden, Conn.
The Journal Publishing Company
1902

BRANFORD

[Transcribed by Coralynn Brown]

PERSONAL SKETCHES Rev. ABRAHAM PIERSON was born in Yorkshire, England; graduated at Trinity College, Cambridge; ordained to Episcopal orders and preached for some time in Yorkshire. He married Abigail, daughter of Rev. Jonathan Wheelwright of Lincolnshire. Adopting non-conformist views, he came to America in 1639, in the pursuit of religious freedom. He became a member of the Congregational church at Boston, and preached at Lynn until 1640, when various circumstances decided him with a part of his congregation to move to Long Island. Here they laid the foundations of Southampton, but after a few years of arduous labor they found themselves under the jurisdiction of Connecticut, which was very liberal in church govenment and not in accordance with their views. Mr. Pierson with a few followers recrossed the Sound to join the new colony at Totokett. Here Mr. Pierson received a cordial welcome and was accepted as their settled pastor. He was eminently successful as a pastor and teacher for over twenty years. He was intimately associated with Mr. Davenport of New Haven in ecclesiastical affairs, and they were co-laborers in the cause of education. In 1659 they were appointed to formulate plans for establishment of a grammar school in New Haven and to approve the books. In the following year they were elected trustees of the school. He was selected to assist in compiling "a history of the gracious providences of God to New Haven." Mr. Pierson was conversant with the Indian language, often acting as intrepreter, especially before the Court. For his labors among the Indians he received a regular salary paid by a missionary society in England, known as "The Commissioners for the United Colonies of New England." He prepared a catechsim for their instruction entitled, "Some Helps for the Indians: a catechism," printed at Cambridge, 1658, of which there are only two copies extant, one in the Lenox Library, New York, the other in the British Museum. He himself possessed a library containing 440 volumes. Mr. Pierson opposed the union of the colonies with "great inflexibility," taking a prominent part in the controversy. Many of his congregation were aggreeable to his views and they determined to seek a new field of usefulness. They signed a covenant of remonstrance, organized a society, and embarked for New Jersey in 1666. Here they established their church in conformity to their views and founded the present city of Newark. For twelve years Mr. Pierson ministered to this church, "his life full of piety to God and service to his fellowmen." He died in 1678, aged 72. Children of Rev. Abraham Pierson - Abigail Wheelwright. Abraham, b. Lynn, 1640; d. 1708; m. Abigail Clark of Milford. Thomas, b. Southampton, 1641-2; d. 1684; m. Marie Taintor. John, b. Southampton, 1643; d. 1671. Abigail, b. Southampton, 1644; m. John Davenport, Jr. Grace, b. Branford, July 23, 1650; m. Samuel Kitchell. Susanna, b. Branford, Dec. 10, 1652; m. John Ball. Rebecca, b. Branford; m. Joseph Johnson. Theophilus, b. Branford, Mar. 15, 1657. Isaac. Mary. Rev. ABRAHAM PIERSON, JR. was born at Lynn, Mass., 1640; graduated at Harvard College, 1668; accompanied his father to Southampton and Branford. While at the latter place he married Abigail Clark of Milford. He settled as colleague with his father at Newark (NJ), ordained at Killingworth, Conn. In 1700 he was one of the ten ministers selected as trustees of Yale College, and in 1701 he was chosen president of the college with the title "Rector of Yale College." He was distinguished for his talents and profound learning. He died at Killingworth, 1708. THOMAS PIERSON, brother of Rev. Abraham Pierson, "was a weaver, and while quiety pursuing his calling was ready to bear his full share of the burdens devolving upon the settlers of a new colony." He married Maria, daughter of Richard Harrison, Nov. 27, 1662. He removed to Newark (NJ), where he held many offices. Rev. JOHN SHERMAN was born at Dedham, Essex county, England, December 26, 1613. he was the son of Edmund Sherman, known as "old Father Sherman," who died in New Haven, 1641. He was educated at Emanuel College, Cambridge, but as he would not sign the articles upon which graduation depended, he left college before taking his degree under the character of a college Puritan. He came to New England, 1634-5, and preached at Watertown, Mass., as assistant to Rev. George Phillips. The records show that he was assigned a house lot at Wethersfield, 1636, and from there he migrated to Milford, 1639. While there he was employed as a teacher. He was invited to join the colony at Totokett as their pastor, and also acted as judge and magistrate. After the death of Mr. Phillips, 1646, he returned to Watertown, preaching there until he died, 1685. "He was a man of superior intellectual endowments; the best mathemataician in the country, and left voluminous manuscripts on Science of Astronomy." His first wife, Mary, died in New Haven, Sept. 8, 1646, leaving six children. His second wife was Mary Launce, whom he met in the family of Governor Eaton. She was the grand-daughter of Thomas Darcy, Earl of Rivers, and under the guardianship of Edward Hopkins. She survived her husband, dying in 1710. She was the mother of twenty children. Mr. Sherman was at Totokett between the death of his first wife and his second marriage. Inscription on his tombstone at Watertown, Mass.: "To the momory of John Sherman, a man of the greater piety, dignity and candor, well versed in theology, in the pulpit a Chrysostom, and in the liberal arts especially mathematics exceedingly skillful. He was the faithful pastor of the church at Watertown, in New England, and an overseer and fellow of Harvard College. After he had been an undaunted servant of Christ for forty-five years he was removed when ripe for his departure and received the palm from his Redeemer on the 8 of August, 1685, in the 72 year of his age." The will of Rev. John Sherman was dated August 6, 1685. In it are named thirteen children who survived him. Sons: Bezeleel, Daniel, Samuel, John, James. Daughters: Mary, Grace, Elizabeth, Abiah, Hester, Barren. He died August 8, 1685. THOMAS MULLINER was the first settler in Totokett, coming before the country was bought by the New Haven colony in 1638, and gaining ownership from the Indians. He was the son of Thomas and Elizabeth Mulliner of Ipswich, England, each of whom left him a legacy in their respective wills, dated 1625 and 1627. "A restless and independent spirit," who preferred an isolated life. He had located near the sea, which section retains the name of Mulliner's Neck. He objected to being ignored by the grant to New Haven, claiming land included in their purchase. He evidently had been trained to the occupation of his father, that of joiner, as in 1647 the governor informed the Court that the King's arms had been carved for the town by Mr. Mulliner and was to be set upona post on the highway. The Mulliners, father and son, were troublesome for many years, and were frequently arraigned before the Court for trespassing upon the territory of the settlers and voilating their laws. "Samuel Swayne complayned of Mr. Mulliner for neglecting of traynings, watchings & bringing of his armes when it was his turne one the Lord's days." "February 5, 1644, Thomas Mulliner sen. and Thomas Mulliner his son were under bonds of 100 pounds to keep the publique peace and be of good behaviour towards all people especially towards the Inhabitants of Totokett." Thomas, sen., died in 1690. November 10, 1691, Thomas, jr., with his wife, Martha Browne, yielded their claim to the land and were granted 200 acres in the northwest corner of the town. Later they sold to Nathaniel Johnson and removed to Westchester, N. Y. THOMAS WHITWAY was quietly settled in the region afterward known as Foxon. He had a house lot in Wethersfield, and local history records that he joined the emigration to Totokett, yet he never identified with the early settlers although on friendly terms with them. He understood the Indian language, and was of service as an interpreter. As early as 1644 he went as messenger to Uncas to summon him to settle with the governor and magistrates for "damage to their cattell." April 21, 1651, he was chosen "pound herd." He died December 12, 1651, leaving no heir and his lands were reclaimed by the town. JOHN PLUM came from Dorchester to Wethersfield, where he appears to have taken an active part in all public affairs, ecclesiasticl as well as state. He was associated with Mr. Swaine as deputy in 1642. With Robert Rose he was fined, "falling in proof" for preferring grievances against the minister, Mr. Smith. He was one of a committee appointed to consider ways and means of improving the ground of the plantation. Upon his arrival at Branford he was also regarded as a man of affairs, for he was appointed in 1645 to keep the town's book - the first town clerk. His death, which occurred in 1648, is the first on the records of the town. "Mistrs Plume and her sonn Samuell Plume brought into ye court an inventorie of the estate of Mr. John Plume deceased, amounting to 3661; 9s; 1d, prised by Robert Rose, Robert Abut & Lawrence Ward, upon the oath of the 4th of September, 1648." His son Samuel removed to Newark (NJ). Dorcas Plum married John Liman of Hartford, Jan. 12, 1664. DANIEL DOD was one of the emigrants who came to Boston before 1640. He came to Branford from Wethersfield with his wife, Mary, "and after a few years several sons and daughters sat around his table." "They did not long endure the hardships and trials of pioneer life," for his wife died in 1657, leaving six small children. He himself died in 1666, leaving an estate of 146 pounds to be divided among his children, with Richard Lawrence and Lawrence Ward their guardians. His eldest daughter, Mary, had married Aaron Blatchly, and when they removed to Newark, in 1666, took three young brothers with her. The remaining brother, Stephen, found ahome with a sister who had removed to Guilford. Daniel, the son of Stephen, joined his kinsmen in Newark, and thus all the descendants bearing the name of Dod are of Newark (NJ) extraction. There have been many distinguished men in the Dod family, especially in the ministry. Children of Daniel Dod and Mary Mary, bap. June 1, 1651; m. Aaron Blatchly. Hannah, bap. June 1, 1651; m. ___ Fowler. Daniel, bap. June 1, 1651. Ebenezer, b. Dec. 11, 1651. Daughter, b. March 29, 1653. Stephen, b. Feb. 16, 1656; d. Oct. 6, 1691; m. Sarah Stevens. Samuel, b. May 2, 1657. ROBERT ROSE was a native of Ipswich, Suffolk county, England. He and his wife, Margery, each aged forty years, with eight children, came in the ship Francis to Boston in 1634. He first located in Watertown, Mass., but better opportunities induced him to join the prioneer settlement in Connecticut, where he occupied "adventure lands" in Wethersfield. He had also an allotment of 312 acres. These circumstances gave him preeminence among the colonists, yet he appeared to have little ambition to be a ruler in temporal affairs as he filled but one public office, that of constable in 1639. His name often appears in connection with Mr. Swaine and Mr. Plum, especially in affairs spiritual. his was a leading mind in the dissensions which led to the early disruption of that colony. His attitude in Branford was that of a worthy citizen aiding and adjucting the affairs of the community. He was liberal in his views, broad in his charaties, highly respected and venerated in his life and by succeeding generations. He was regarded as a very wealthy man, owning ten horses when there were not as many more in the town. He dispensed material aid to his less fortunate neighbors, giving the Sunday's milking to the poor, which was one instance of his beneficence. He died April 4, 1665. His estate was valued at 616 pounds; 17s. Last Will and Testament of Robert Rose of Branford, made August 26, 1664. 1. I give to my son Jonathan a hundred pounds. 2. When all my debts are payd then I give to my wife one-third part of my whole estate. 3. I give to my son Jonathan five pounds more. 4. I give to my daughter Hannah ten pounds more. 5. It is my will that all the rest of my estate shall be equally divided into eight parts amongst my other eight children as followeth: That is to each of them alike part but my son John & daughter Mary & my daughter Elizabeth both shall have but twenty pounds of that part that falls to them but the rest of that part which falls to them shall be given to their children. I give unto the church of Branford six pounds, thirteen shilling, four pence. The mark of Robert Rose. Witnessed by Lawrence Ward & Samuel Swaine. His Bible, printed in England, 1599, was for many generations in the possession of descendants, several of whom were deacons of the Congregational church. His legacy to the church of Branford was its first donation. In the geographical nomenclature of the town are found Rose's hill and Rose's brook, both adjacent to his estate. Children of Robert Rose and Margery John, b. 1619. Robert, b. 1619. Elizabeth, b. 1621; m. Michael Taintor (?) Mary, b. 1623. Samuel, b. 1625. Sarah, b. 1627. Daniel, b. 1631. Dorcas, b. 1632; m. Daniel Swaine, July 26, 1653; m. 2d, John Collins. Jonathan. Hannah. His sons Samuel and Daniel settled in Wethersfield and Robert in Stratford. ELIZABETH, widow of John POTTER of New Haven, who died in 1643, and of Edward PARKER, who also died in New Haven, July, 1662, married Robert ROSE of Branford, who died in 1665. Elizabeth Rose made her will July 23, 1677, but died July 28, before signing it. She appointed her two sons, John Potter and John Parker, joint executors of this will. The will was admitted to probate. "The fact that her heirs agreed to stand by a void will is conclusive proof that she was a woman of merit and had the respect of her children." WILLIAM SWAINE "gentleman," aged fifty years, came from London, 1635, in the "Elizabeth and Ann." Received a grant of sixty acres at Watertown, Mass. He was made a freeman, and served as representative in Massachusetts in May, 1636, and in September of the same yer he held court in the new colony of Wethersfield, where he had acquired "adventure lands." He was appointed with Roger Ludlow and Andrew Ward as commissioners to govern the people until the adoption of the constitution in 1639. He was a member of the Court which tried the first offender; enacted the first law, and declared war agqinst the Pequots in 1637. Becoming involed in "divers grievances" pertaining to the adjustment of church differences, he was one of the foremost projectors of the scheme of removal from Wethersfield. His name appears prominently in the purchase of the plantation of Totokett, where he settled in 1644. He was successively deputy, juror, and magistrate. During the Pequot war, two daughters of William Swaine were captured by the Indians and taken to Pequot, now New London. Here they were rescued by a Dutch trading vessel and transferred to the care of Lion Gardiner, then in command at Saybrook, at a cost of 10 pounds to the latter, who writes in 1660: "I am yet to have thanks for my care and charge about them." His daughter Mary married in New Haven, name not known. Mr. Swaine held an estate of 435 acres in Branford, which he did not occupy long, as his death must have occurred in the first years of the settlement of the colony, when his name disappears from the records. SAMUEL SWAINE son of William, born in England, was in Watertown in 1635; also at a later date in Wethersfield; "one of the founders of the church and town of Branford." In 1653 "propounded to the Court and approved as the chief military officer of Branford." He was deputy to New Haven, 1651-63. As a friend and coadjutor of Mr. Pierson, he accompanied him to Newark (NJ). The tradition is that Elizabeth Swaine, daughter of Samuel, was the first to land on the shore of Newark, having been handed up by her lover, Josiah Ward, who hastened to secure this distinction for her. In his will Samuel Swaine gives all his estate to his "beloved wife Joanna." Children of Samuel Swaine and Joanna ____. Elizabeth, b. 1647; m. Josiah Ward; m. 2d, David Ogden. Mary, b. March 1, 1649; d. Nov. 10, 1655. Phebe, b. May 24, 1654. Mary, b. June 12, 1656. Christiana, b. April 25, 1659; m. Nathaniel Ward. Sarah, b. Oct. 7, 1661; m. Thomas Johnson. Abigail, m. Eleazar Lampson. Joanna, m. Jasper Crane, Jr. DANIEL SWAINE son of William, born in England. Probably with his father in Watertown and Wethersfield. His name is in the list of freemen in Branford, 1669; deputy at Hartford, 1673-1677. His home lot was centrally located. He married Dorcas, daughter of Robert Rose, July 26, 1653. He died in 1691. Children of Daniel Swaine and Dorcas Rose Debora, b. April 24, 1654; m. Peter Tyler, Nov. 20, 1671. Daniel, b. Dec. 23, 1655; d. 1684. Dorcas, b. Dec. 2, 1657; m. John Taintor. John, b. May 22, 1660; d. 1694. Jonathan, b. Jan. 12, 1662. JASPER CRANE a merchant from London, who took a prominent part in the settlement of New Haven; signed the first agreement of the free planters in Mr. Newman's barn, July 1, 1639. His house lot was on the public square adjoining that of Mr. Davenport, and his estate was estimated at 480 pounds. He was interested in every enterprise pertaining to the advancement and growth of the colony of New Haven, and he at once joined the company who settled at Totokett, although he may have retained his home in New Haven for some years. He represented Branford as deputy at the General Court, 1653-57; from 1658-66 he served as magistrate, and was intimately associated with Governor Leete; in 1664 he was appointed commissioner to administer the oath of allegiance; one of the signers of the resolution to form a new colony at Newark (NJ), and at that time he was so highly esteemed that his name precedes that of the pastor, Mr. Pierson. He did not at once removed to Newark, as he was residing in Branford in 1668, but on his arrival there he was equally respected and elected their first magistrate. He died at Newark, October 19, 1681, and was probably the last survivor of the subscribers to the "Fundamental agreement." Children of Jasper Crand and _____ John, b. in England. Hannah, b. in England; m. Thomas Huntington. Delivered, bap. in New Haven, June 12, 1642. Mercy, bap. in New Haven, March 1, 1645. Micah, bap. in New Haven, Nov. 3, 1647. Azariah, b. 1651; m. Mary, dau. of Robert Treat. Jasper, b. 1651; m. Joanna Swaine. EDWARD FRISBIE "the Immigrant," with his wife Hannah, was one of the first settlers who entered his name for land in 1645. He must have been an extensive land owner and acquired much additional property, as the conditions of his will, dated 1689, dispose of many valuable tracts in different parts of the town. His large family of eleven children displayed marked traits of character and ability. Their descendants in succeeding generations include many distinguished members. His son John was a member of the State Legislature, 1690-92. Children of Edward Frisbie and Hannah _____ John, b. July 27, 1650; m. Ruth, dau. of Rev. John Bowers; d. 1694. Edward, b. July 11, 1652. Benoni, b. 1654; d. 1700. Samuel, b. Oct. 7, 1655; d. 1681. Abigail, b. Oct. 7, 1657; m. William Hoadley, Jr. Jonathan, b. Oct. 28, 1659; d. April 7, 1695. Josiah, b. Jan. 19, 1661; d. March 13, 1712. Caleb, b. 1667. Ebenezer, b. Sept. 5, 1672; d. 1714. Silence, b. Sept. 5, 1672; m. Joshua Austin of New Haven. Hannah, b. 1669 (?); m. Nathaniel Harrison. ROBERT ABBOTT was admitted a freeman at Watertown, Mass., 1634; was granted thirty-five acres of land besides a home lot of ten acres. His name remained on the list of proprietors at that place, although he was residing in Wethersfield in 1641. August 6, 1642, he was admitted a freeman in New Haven. He had land allotted to him in East Haven and Branford, but continued to reside in New Haven until May 6, 1645. He died intestate in 1658, and in 1660 his estate was distributed, reserving 10 pounds for the two younger children. In 1659 his widow, Marie, married John Robins. Children of Robert Abbott and Marie _____ Peter, b. before 1649. Sarah, b. before 1649; m. Matthew Rowe. Deborah, b. before 1649. Abigail, b. Oct. 2, 1650. John, b. April 20, 1652. Benjamin, b. Jan. 10, 1653. Daniel, b. Feb. 12, 1654. Mary, b. May 13, 1656. THOMAS BLATCHLY aged 20, came to Boston, 1635, in the Hopewell. He was a merchant residing in Hartford in 1640; in New Haven, 1643; and for many years after 1644 in Branford, where he received an allotment of land. He was representative at the General Assembly, 1667, after the union of the colonies - also elected, 1668-69, but was absent. He signed the Newark (NJ) covenant and later the plantation and church covenant of Branford. He was assigned a house lot in Newark, but evidently did not become a permanent resident there, for in 1668 he was admitted an inhabitant of Guilford, where his son Moses had settled. After a time he removed to Boston, where he died in 1674. The value of his estate in Connecticut was 79 pounds, and that in Boston, 128 pounds. His widow Susanna married Richard Bristow. Miriam Blatchly, his daughter, married Samuel Pond, the ancestor of Lieutenant-Governor Pond of Milford. Aaron Blatchly, his son, who settled in Newark, had married Mary Dod and brought suit against the estate of Daniel Dod on account of a marriage settlement. The claim was not allowed because of the small estate. Children of Thomas Blatchly and Susanna _____ Aaron, b. 1647; m. Mary Dod. Moses, b. March 29, 1650; m. Susannah Bishop of Guilford. Miriam, b. March 1, 1653; m. Samuel Pond, Jan. 5, 1669. Abigail, m. Ed. Ball. ROGER BETTS one of the Watertown settlers, came from Wethersfield to Totokett, having taken the oath of fidelity in New Haven in 1644. His three children, Samuel, Peter and Mercy, were baptized in New Haven, July 1, 1651, his daughter Hannah being older. He with his family joined Thomas Betts of Guilford, who settled in Milford, 1658. In the Betts genealogy he is mentioned as a possible relation. He died in Milford and his widow married John Cabell of Fairfield. She died in 1683, leaving her property to her son, Samuel Betts, with instructions to pay legacies to the other children. Children of Roger Betts and Ann _____ Hannah. Samuel, bap. in New Haven, July 1, 1651. Peter, bap. in New Haven, July 1, 1651; d. Oct. 3, 1653. Mercy, bap. in New Haven, July 1, 1651. Roger, b. in Branford, Feb. 20, 1652. Mary, b. in Branford, Feb. 29, 1653. WILLIAM PALMER in 1636 received a grant of twenty acres of land at Watertown, Mass. Probably he soon followed the fortunes of the new colony at Wethersfield, as he is known to have participated in the war against the Pequots, for which service he was rewarded with bounty lands. His claims as a leading man at Totokett are indisputabley established by the records. "Moreover it is ordered that Mr. Palmer in consideration of some former expense and also for the good services he has done the town, and also for the public business that he is to do the town for one year following as they call him thereunto, he is to have that piece of meadow which lyeth at the end or side of his lot to the neck and also upland apportionable to it." Which shows that Mr. Palmer was the first town agent. He died 1656. MICAH PALMER who was a planter, with his son. He married Elizabeth Butler. In 1676 his estate was valued at 45 pounds. His will, dated November 12, 1681, gave one-third of his estate to his wife Elizabeth, and he mentions his sons John, Daniel, Micah and three other children. Children of Micah Palmer and Elizabeth Butler, m. Jan. 3, 1662-3 Elizabeth, b. Oct. 3, 1662-3. Michael, b. Feb. 8, 1664. John, b. Dec. 24, 1666. Mary, b. Oct. 24, 1669. Micah, b. May 25, 1673. Daniel, b. Sept. 12, 1675. Joshua, b. Dec. 25, 1677. JOHN and FRANCIS LINSLEY came from the northwest of London. John became a permanent resident of Branford, building his house on Mulliner's Neck Path. John Linsley jr., came from Guilford, 1654, after the death of his wife Ellen, and died 1684; a possible relation. John Linsley, sen., married July 9, 1655, Sarah Pond, a widow from Windsor. She was the mother of Samuel Pond, then a youth of seven years, who accompanied her to Branford, and 1669 married Miriam Blatchly. John Linsley, sen., lived until 1698. Children of John Linsley and Sarah Pond Benjamin, b. July 10, 1656; d. March 29, 1660. Elizabeth, b. June 18, 1658; d. July 11, 1659. Jonathan, d. May 3, 1725; m. Dorcas Phipper of Milford, Sept. 24, 1705. In the inventory of July 13, 1698, children Mary and Hannah are mentioned. FRANCIS LINSLEY is presumed to be the brother of John Linsley, sen., as their relations were very intimate. Francis Linsley was speedily inducted into office. "The second month, the tenth day, 1646. This day it was agreed by the town and Francis Linsley that the said Francis shall keep the heard [sic] of cows and heifers from the 16 of this month to the 16 of the 9th & he is to call for them by the sun half an hour high in the morning and to bring them home in the evening and he must blow a horn or make some other noise before he come in the morning and also in the evening that we may be ready to turn them out of our yards and to return them in the evening." They further arrange that he is to have one Sabbath out of four. Also if any of the cattle are astray, he is to look for them four days at his own expense. This was probably his occupation for the following five years. In 1666 he removed with his wife and three daughters to Newark (NJ). Children of Francis Linsley and Susannah Culpepper, m. July 24, 1655. Debora, b. April 22, 1656. Ruth, b. Feb. 4, 1657. Bethia, b. March 4, 1659. GEORGE and LAWRENCE WARD were brothers, mentioned in the allotment of lands in New Haven in 1641. They received two lots on East Water street fronting the habor. Their estates were estimated at 30 pounds and 10 pounds. They were ship carpenters and may have found further opportunities for plying their trade in the necessities of a new settlement. GEORGE WARD who signed the agreement of 1639, was represented at New Haven as having a family of six persons, and when he died in Branford in 1653, he left a widow and four children. Samuel and Josiah Ward who settled in Newark were probably his son. LAWRENCE WARD was active in discharging official duties. He was one of the "searchers" sent to Milford by the Governor to assist in the capture of the regicides, Goffe and Whalley, which expedition proved a failure. He was deputy at the General Court of New Haven, 1654-64; and was a member of the General Assembly at Hartford, 1665-66; he was collector of customs and excise on wines and strong liquors, for which he recieved 3s for each 1 pound collected. He with his family of seven children removed to Newark (NJ). JOHN WARD was the son of Joyce Ward, a widow of Wethersfield, who mentions him in her will dated 1640. Hel ived in Branford many years; was representative in 1666; and signed the Plantation and Church covenant in 1667. In 1661, he testifies that he is about thirty-six years of age. His will bears date of 1694. Children of John Ward and Sarah _____ John, b. 1649; m. dau. of Henry Lyon; 2. Abigail Kitchell. Mary, b. 1654; m. Samuel Harrison. Nathaniel, b. 1656; m. Christiana Swaine. Hannah, b. 1658; m. Jonathan Baldwin. Elizabeth, b. 1660. Dorcas, m. Joseph Harrison. Deborah, m. Eliphalet Johnson. Phebe, m. John Cooper. Sarah, m. John Rogers. JOHN ENGLAND died in Branford, 1655, leaving a widow but no children. His estate was valued at 121 pounds 6s. 11 d., of which he gave 10 pounds to Jonathan Sargent. JOHN NORTON is supposed to have been the third son of Richard Norton and Ellen Rowley of London. His name appears upon the Branford records as one of the first settlers, where he lived with his wife Dorothy, who died 1652, leaving three young daughters who were born in Branford, and a son John, who died 1657. He married a second wife, Elizabeth, who died leaving a son John. He assisted in the legal transactions of the place. In 1659 he removed to Farmington, and was one of the first proprietors in the division of lands in that place. He died there November 5, 1709. Children of John Norton and Dorothy _____, who d. Jan. 24, 1652 Elizabeth, b. 1645; m. John Plumb of Milford. Hannah, b. 1646; m. Samuel North of Farmington. Dorothy, b. March 1, 1649. John, b. March 24, 1651; d. Jan. 15, 1657. Children of John Norton and Elizabeth _____, who d. Nov. 6, 1657 Samuel, b. May 13, 1659; died August 20, 1659. Thomas, b. 1660; m. Hannah Rose. THOMAS FENNER was a trader carrying on a business by boat or vessel between Hartford and Branford or New Haven. His inventory taken two days after his death, May 15, 1647, would indicate that he had a stock of merchandise in both Hartford and Branford. It is evident that he died while away on a trip to Hartford. EDWARD TREDWELL was from Ipswich, England. he was one of the early settlers of Branford, coming in 1644, where he was living in 1648 and perhaps later, as he does not appear at Southold, L. I., until 1659. He lived at that place many years, dying, 1718, very aged. It was probably his son Samuel Tredwell who was made a freeman in Fairfield, 1670, and in 1673 he received from that town a pasture and a building lot of fourteen acres. RICHARD HARRISON came from West Kirby, Cheshire, England, to Virginia. He may have become interested in the maritime trade between the colonies, for in a very short time he came to New Haven accompanied by two sons, Richard Jr., and Thomas. He was evidently aged, as he is called "old Harrison" in the Branford records. He signed the divison of lands July 1, 1646, and remained in Branford until his death, which occurred Oct. 25, 1653. His daughter, Maria, married Thomas Pierson, brother of Rev. Abraham Pierson. Children of Richard, Sen., and Sarah _____ Benjamin, who remained in Virginia. Nathaniel, who remained in Virginia. Richard jr., of Branford and Newark (NJ). Thomas, of Branford. Maria, who married Thomas Pierson. RICHARD HARRISON, Jr. May have resided for some time in New Haven, but he was in Branford as early as 1645, where he had a house lot. He joined the Newark colony and removed there with his family. His house and lands in Branford were purchased in 1667 for 60 pounds by a committee as a permanent home for the minister. As a signature to this deed he affixed his mark with a wax seal bearing the design of three roses. THOMAS HARRISON Who remained in Branford, in 1688 gives his age as fifty-eight years. In 1667 he purchased the estate of Jasper Crane, which is described on the records: "a dwelling house with all outhouses, barns, stables, orchards, gardens, yard or yards about my own dwelling house." This is regarded as the first frame house which was built. He is the ancestor of a long line of descendants, many of whom have achieved marked success in professional life, and others have been called to positions of great trust and honor in public life. [Notably among these, and worthy of the highest esteem, was the late Governor Henry Baldwin Harrison, of New Haven]. When he died in 1696, his estate was estimated as the largest in the town, 192 pounds. He was twice married: his first wife Mary, widow of John Thompson, of New Haven; Mar. 29, 1666, he married Elizabeth Stent. He died 1704. Children of Richard Harrison, Jr. Benjamin, b. Jan. 30, 1655. Ann, b. Nov. 2, 1657. George, b. Dec. 31, 1658. Children of Thomas Harrison and Mary Thompson, widow, m. 1652 Thomas, b. March 1, 1657; m. Margaret Stent. Nathaniel, b. Dec. 13, 1659; m. Abigail Frisbie. Children of Thomas Harrison and Elizabeth Stent, m. March 26, 1666. Elizabeth, b. Jan. 1667; m. William Barker. Mary, b. Feb. 10, 1668; m. John Linsley. John, b. March 1, 1670. Samuel, b. August 11, 1673. JONATHAN SEARGENT and his family were among the earliest settlers. August 10, 1651, his chldren went to New Haven and were baptized - Jonathan, Hannah, Thomas and John. They were at this time all adults, "and able to walk to New Haven." He died Dec. 12, 1651, and his wife seven days later. Thomas Seargent was a teacher from 1684 until 1691. He died in Branford, 1700. John Seargent became a planter at Guilford, Dec. 11, 1672, where he died 1675. Jonathan Seargent, with his sister Hannah, who had married Benjamin Baldwin, removed to Newark (NJ), and the family became extinct in Connecticut. LUTHER or LESLY BRADFIELD is mentioned in the Wethersfield records, and in 1644 settled at Branford, locating near the shore. He died July 26, 1655, leaving a family. His daughter died July 29 of the same year. His widow, Mary, married George Adams, 1657. This is the first marriage on the records. There was a son, Samuel Bradfield, and a daughter, Maria, who married John Whitehead. GEORGE ADAMS who was interested in the iron works, died 1675. His will dated 1670 mentions his widow and son John. John Adams, his son, died 1677, and having no near relations gave "to Noah Rogers and Eleazar Stent all his estate equall." CHARLES TAINTOR the father of Michael Taintor, being deprived by confiscation of a large estate in Wales, migrated to America with his family, which consisted of a wife and four children. He was in New England in 1643, and with Capt. Jagger in the exodus from Wethersfield, settled in Fairfield. He was interested in foreign voyages and was lost at sea 1654. His son Michael, however, for obvious reasons, settled in Branford before 1650, where he had a house lot. He was a master of a vessel trading with Virginia. He, with his son John, then seventeen years of age, signed the new plantation and church covenant. In 1669 he was Judge of the Court of Branford and commissioner to arrange the bounds between Branford and New Haven; also between Branford and Guilford; and for several sessions a member of the Connecticut General Assembly. "In him we find the ship-master and man of enterprise, the legislator and consistent Christian professor, the commissioner and judge, the puritan and patriarch; evidently bringing up his family in the fear of God. From all that can be known of him it appears evident that he was a man of influence and discretion, and posterity held his name in great respect and veneration, probably not so much from the splendor of his career as from the disintersted nobleness and integrity of his character." He died 1673, his wife Elizabeth, daughter of Robert Rose (?), having died in 1650. His estate was inventoried at 166 pounds. His son, John, "who possessed many of the virtues and qualities of his father," died in 1699, leaving no children. His will contained the following bequest: "I do give to the town of Branford that part of my homelot lying between Stephen Foot's homelot and what was my Father Swaine's, to the street on the north of said land, that I do give to said town of Branford to build a public meetinghouse, and to continue for that use so long as they shall maintain a meetinghouse there unless the town see fit to build elsewhere, and then that land to be in common or what other use the town see meet. . . .", as well as a legacy of 4 pounds for the church. This tract of land was accepted and became the public common or "Green," and the church building was erected thereon the following year. All the Taintors in this country are supposed to be descendants of Michael Taintor, as his brothers are not known to have had children, and no names of any other family are to be found. Children of Michael Taintor and Elizabeth Rose(?) John, b. March 26, 1650; m. Dorcas Swaine. Michael, b. Oct. 12, 1652; m. Mary Loomis, of Windsor; (2) Mabel Butler. Elizabeth, b. June 22, 1655; m. Noah Rogers, April 8, 1673. Johanna, b. April 29, 1657; m. Josiah Gillet, of Windsor, June 30, 1676. Sarie, b. Oct. 12, 1658. Children of Charles Taintor Michael. Charles, Jr. Joseph. Marie, m. Thomas Pierson, son of Rev. Abraham Pierson. JOHN WILFORD a merchant, came from London. He was in New Haven, 1641, when lands were allotted to him in "ye Great Plaine"; he took the oath of fidelity, 1644, and was named in the seating of the church, 1646. He evidently went to Branford in that year, as he was elected town clerk at that place, 1648, succeeding John Plum. He was a member of the General Assembly for twenty sessions, from 1665 to 1676. While prominent in affairs of state he was enterprising in business. He was connected with the iron works at Furnace Pond, and their supplies were stored at his house. He died 1678, without children, leaving his entire estate to his nephew, John Wilford, of London, after the death of his wife. His widow married Thomas Topping, who was for a number of years a member of the Governor's Council of State. She contested the will, declaring that the property belonged to herself before marriage. Her claim was disputed by Richard Wilford, agent of John, of London, who settled permanently in Branford as early as 1698. He was a school teacher and land surveyor and the ancestor of the Wilford family. Lydia Wilford Topping, d. Nov. 3, 1694. RICHARD LAWRENCE was a deacon of the church of Branford. His name frequently occurs upon the records as a party to legal transactions. He was highly esteemed. His home was near Mulliner's Neck. He signed the Newark covenant and removed from Branford, 1667, and was settled in Passaic, New Jersey, 1668. Children of Richard Lawence and ___ ____, b. in Branford. Ebenezer, b. Jan. 17, 1651. Edward, b. July 15, 1654; d. Nov. 12, 1655. Sarah, b. March 25, 1657. Bothia and Esther were baptized in New Haven, June 1, 1651. RICHARD WILLIAMS removed to Fairfield, 1658. Children of Richard Williams and ___ _____ Samuel, b. Sept. 13, 1655. Daniel, b. April 15, 1657. JOHN EDWARDS with his son Thomas came from Wethersfield, 1647. At this date he signed an agreement to share all expenses with the other proprietors of Branford. He died in 1664. JOHN HILL was living in Branford, 1644-48. He had a wife Frances and four children. He may have lived some time in Guilford. He died, 1673 or 1678. His inventory is entered on the records as that of John Hill of Branford, but without date, and appraised by Moses Croft and John Frisbie. SIGISMOND RICHALLS was a landowner, and in 1676 he was estimated as worth 30 pounds, 10s. He died Dec. 27, 1692. THOMAS and JOHN WHITEHEAD were probably the youth brought over from England by Francis Halle at the request of their uncle, Thomas Allcote of Roxbury, Mass., who promised to pay the expense of their passage upon their arrival; but Mr. Allcote was then dead. There was no provision for the youth, and Thomas was employed by Mathias Hitchcocke and later by David Atwater. John became a member of the household of Jasper Crane, and accompanied him to Branford. He married, Marc. 9, 1661, Martha, daughter of Lesly Bradfield. He signed the new Plantation and Church covenant and resided in Branford until his death. His widow and seven children were present at the signing of his inventory, Jan. 8, 1695. He owned a house and upland at Indian Neck. Children of John Whitehead and Martha Bradfield Hannah, m. Peter Tyler, Dec. 25, 1688. John, b. Feb. 20, 1665. Martha, b. Jan. 10, 1667. Damaris, b. Jan. 20, 1669. Samuel, b. Nov. 24, 1672. Eliphalet, b. Sept. 27, 1674. Elizabeth, b. Oct., 1677. Thomas, b. Feb. 27, 1680. ROBERT MEEKER took an oath of fidelity in New Haven July 1, 1644, and then removed to Branford, where he appeared to be a person of some standing. He married Susan Tuberfield, 1651. He removed to Fairfield before 1670. SAMUEL NETTLETON was a landowner and in Branford until 1668. November 4, 1647, he appeared before the Governor and upon oath testified "that he had bought a pare of shooes of Goodman Megs of New Haven, russed, clossed in the inside at the side seames, for his wife. She put them on on the Lord's day, and the next third day they were ripped, the soales being good, neither shranke nor hornie, that I could perceive. And he also testifyed that for in consideration of satisfaction from Goodman Megs he expecteth a new pare." Maria, wife of Samuel Nettleton, died Oct. 29, 1658. Hannah Nettleton, a daughter, married Thomas Linsley, July 10, 1656. THOMAS MORRIS and his son-in-law, Thomas Lupton, although associated with the purchasers of Totokett, did not own lands in that planation. WILLIAM MERCHANT and RICHARD MATHER do not appear to have continued any permanent connection with the colony. ED. BALL a surveyor, who had married a daugther of Thomas Blatchly, removed to Newark (NJ), where he was appointed high sheriff.