Barrington, Bristol Co., Ri, Biographies, Part 2
Extracted From
A History Of Barrington, Rhode Island
Thomas Williams Bicknell
Providence: Snow & Farnham, printers.
1898
[Transcribed by Coralynn Brown]
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BIOGRAPHIES of LEADING CITIZENS
JOEL PECK
Son of David and Sarah (HUMPHREY) Peck; b. Aug. 28, 1759; m. Lucy FISH.
children:
Horatio, Elnathan, Bela, Wealthy, Seba, Fanny, Bethiah, Clarissa
Occupation farmer; was a soldier of the Revolution. Mr. Peck was a respected citizen of the town. The house in which he lived is still a landmark of the early architecture of the town.
NATHANIEL PECK
Son of Nathaniel and Cynthia (HEATH) Peck; b. April 24, 1809; unmarried, farmer; was a member of the Town Council of Barrington, and the tax collector for many years. Mr. Peck had a thorough knowledge of town affairs, which made him one of the most useful and respected citizens of the town. His counsel and action were always those of a safe and conservative man. Genial and hearty in disposition, he was the friend of all, and so just, upright and conscientious was his character that he had the full confidence of a great body of acquaintances and friends beyond his town limits. He was one of the few men of whom it can be said, "He had not an ememy."
SEBA PECK
Son of Joel and Lucy (FISH) Peck, b. Jan. 26, 1803; m. Rebecca COOPER of Boston Sept. 14, 1834; children:
Ann Eliza, Emily, Seraphine, Nelson, Laura.
He was a member of the Town Council and of the school committee, a lieutenant in the Barrington Infantry in 1827; occupation, farmer; d. April 9, 1884. Mr. Peck was an honest and an upright man and a member of the Congregational Church.
NATHANIEL CHURCH SMITH
Son of Nathaniel and Wait (MAURAN) Smith, b. Oct. 12, 1811; m. Sally BOWEN April 8, 1835; children:
Antoinette Sharp, James Antoine, Albert, Nathaniel H., Nathaniel W., Louise Bowen, Emily Eddy, Walter Parker, Irving Maruan, Ralph Antoine, Harry Martin
Mr. Smith was a member of the school committee and also the Town Council nearly every year from 1855 to 1869; was captain of the Barrington militia. Mr. Smith was a man devoted to the interests and growth of the town; was public spirited, firm in his adherence to conscientious beliefs, possessed a genial, social nature, looked at men and events from the hopeful standpoint, spoke evil of none, and was respected by all and beloved by those who knew him best. His family, parents, and children have been ornaments to society and the town.
LEARNED PECK
Son of Ebenezer and Huldah (BROWN) Peck, b. Oct. 15, 1795; m. Harriet C. SHORT, Nov. 27, 1817; children:
Harriet N., William H., Betsy S., Sarah D., Julia M., Charles C., Rebecca D. K., Amanda C., Anna C., Tristam B., James D., Sarah U., Milton L., and George L.
Occupation, farmer; was a member of the Congregational Church and a useful citizen.
NOEL MATHEWSON
Son of Noel and Susannah (MARTIN) Mathewson; b. 1810; ed. at Warren H.S. and Phillips Academy; m. (1) Hannah Bourne SMITH July, 1841, children:
Martha Smith, John Bourne, George Kingsley
Mrs. Mathewson d. Nov. 21, 1843.
He m. (2) Mary Ann WEBB, no children.
Occupation, storekeeper and postmaster at Nayatt; d. May 7, 1869. Mr. Mathewson was a public spirited and generaous man well respected by all.
JOHN JAY ALLIN
Born Dec. 26, 1814; d. Feb. 20, 1890; a lineal descendant of William Allin, who settled in Barrington prior to 1670; m. Mary Tyler BOWEN; children:
John Jay Allin, m. Josephine STARKEY.
Florence Haile Allin.
Charles Irving Allin, b. June 12, 1855, m. Ella NICHOLS.
Married (2) Mary LEete VARLEY, children:
Florence Shores Allin, b. Dec. 25, 1862.
Howard Everett Allin, b. July 2, 1864, m. Jesse M. HORTON.
Mary Milton Allin, b. Nov. 8, 1866, m. David C. BLACK.
Annie Gertrude Allin, b. Dec. 9, 1869, d. Feb. 4, 1874.
Ida Louise Allin, b. Jan. 23, 1872.
NATHANIEL SMITH
Son of James and Sarah (KENT) Smith, m. Lillis HUMPHREY, Dec. 6, 1770; children:
Josiah, Nathaniel, Bicknell, Ebenezer, Simon, James, Sarah and Asa.
Farmer, owned large farm at Rumstick. Services in the Revolution.
REV. FRANCIS WOOD
Born Uxbridge, Mass., April 8, 1798; grad. B.U. 1819; m. Lydia TIFFANY, Sept. 9, 1823; pastorate, Barrington, 1823-1826; Willington, Conn., Prescott and Holland, Mass., and returned to Barrington, where he closed his useful life in teaching a select school several years, and in the duties of Town Clerk from 1865-1875. He died Oct. 28, 1845 [sic] leaving a widow and one son, Mark H., who succeeded his father as town clerk from 1875 to 1898.
THE RICHMONDS
A noted New England family, are descended from John and Edward, his son, of Newport and Little Compton, 1633. Peleg Richmond, b. 1732, moved to Barrington from Little Compton about 1732; bought large tracts of land of the Allens and Vialls. In March, 1759, Peleg deeded to his son, John Rogers Richmond, "for love, good will and affection," sixty acres of land "together with ye mantion house thereon standing and being." The land is now owned by Edward F. Richmond, son of Ichabod, and grandson of John, and the old house is now standing, south of the eight-rod way.
John F. Richmond[8] (Edward F.[7], Ichabod[6], John Rogers[5], Peleg[4], Sylvester[[3], Edward[2], John[1]), lives on the Richmond estate with his father; farmer; has been in both branches of the General Assembly from Barrington, and was an appraiser in the Custon House in Harrison's administration; Mr. Richmond preserves the history and traditions of his family with a proper pride, and is one of the most useful and respected citizens of the town.
SULLIVAN MARTIN
Son of Luther and Elizabeth (HUMPHREYS) Martin, b. Jan. 31, 1789; m. (1) Belinda PECK, in 1814; children:
Anna D., Edwin L., George Sullivan, Stephen B., Nathaniel F.
He m. (2) Lydia ROGERSON.
m. (3) Esther V. TIFFANY.
Died May 27, 1863.
GEORGE S. MARTIN
Son of Sullivan, b. Jan. 3, 1822; m. Betsey S. PECK, Oct. 21, 1845; farmer; resides in Norfolk, Nebraska, and retains a lively interest in and a retentive memory of the older Barrington of which he was a resident for many years; children:
George L., Charles F., Hattie N., Emma D., William, Ida, Ida B.
O. H. P. CLELAND
Has been a resident of Barrington for nearly forty years, and his name frequently appears on the town records as an officer of the town. His good judgment and conervative spirit render him a valuable tax assessor, and appraiser of property values.
LEWIS T. FISHER
is one of the reliable and valuable adopted citizens of Barrington; m. Jane DROWN, dau. of Alfred; has been a Representative and Senator for several terms, high sheriff of Bristol County, a member of the Centennial Committee, and other town offices.
CHARLES H. BOWDEN
Born in Providence, Feb. 5, 1846; was educated in the public schools of that city; moved to Barrington with his father's family in the spring of 1864; enlisted in Bat. B.R.I. 1st L.A., Aug. 24, 1864, and received an honorable discharge June 13, 1865; m. Sarah E. TIFFANY, dau. of Ebenezer Tiffany, Jan. 1, 1867; no children; lived in the State of Washington from 1889 to 1892; has served as town surveyor of highways; is a Deacon of the Cong. Church; his father was born in Marblehead, Mass. in 1815, and his mother in Rehoboth the same year; both died in Barrington in 1893. They left nine children, all of whom are living. Mr. Bowden stands for the highest interests of society, and is a useful and valuable citizen.
WHEATON B. BOWDEN
Brother of Charles and Samuel, is one of our most intelligent citizens, and has been elected as a member of the Town Council, of the School Committee, and other town offices.
SAMUEL BOWDEN
He has filled various town offices, and is now the efficient town Sergeant and Chief of Police.
THE KINNICUTTS
Are from Roger Kinnicutt, who settled in Malden, Mass., and who was made freeman in 1670; m. Joanna SHEPARDSON of Charlestown, Mass., Nov., 1661, and moved to Swansea in 1679; the ancestry of Daniel Kinnicutt are:
John[1],
John [2], b. 1669, m. Elizabeth LUTHER;
John[3] b. 1770, m. (1) Anne EDDY;
Daniel[4] b. 1735, m. Hannah KENT;
Josiah[5] b. 1765, m. Rebecca Bourne TOWNSEND, children:
Hannah B., m. Benjamin VIALL.
Harriet Bryon, m. Allin BICKNELL.
Benjamin Townsend.
Martha Townsend, m. Nathaniel BROWN.
Nancy, m. George SMITH.
George R., m. Hannah DROWN.
F.I. FIELD, Esq.
Of the firm of Brownell & Field, is a valuable accession to the citizenship of the town; has been a member of the Town Council, and its President in 1898-8; is an active member of the B.R.I. Association, and has served as its President; his residence is at New Meadow Neck.
JOHN WHEATON
Son of Job Wheaton; farmer and teacher; was an intelligent and active partner in the affairs of the town, and his voice and vote were for good men and measure for the community.
ERASTUS L. WALCOTT
Was one of the most useful and respected of the adopted sons of Barrington. He represented the town in both branches of the General Assembly, was an influential member of St. John's Church, and always labored for the building up of the social and civil interests.
WILLIAM T. LEWIS
and William T. Jr., father and son, have resided at Drownville for nearly thirty years, and have been identified with the growth and improvement of the town. Both have held public office, the father as Assessor of Taxes, and the son as a Representative in the General Assembly, 1897-8, and also as a member of the Town Council, and its President in 1896. Mr. Lewis, Sen., is a prominent member of St. John's Church, and a supporter of the Mission at Drownville.
ROBERT FESSENDEN
has been a resident of the town for several years, and has contributed to its recent development in many ways. He is progressive in spirit, liberal in policy, and resolute in action. His record in the Civil War is as follows:
Private Co. E, First Reg. Infantry; res., North Providence; April 17, 1861, enrolled; May 2, 1861, mustered in; Aug. 2, 1862, mustered out.
Mr. Fessenden is an active member of the B.R.I. Association, and is devoted to the best interests of the town. He is connected with the Hope Electric Appliances Co. of Providence.
REV. THOMAS WILLIAMS
was a native of Pomfret, Conn., and a graduate of Yale College in 1800; taught school four years; was an evangelist from 1804 to 1807; was pastor at Foxboro from 1816-21; at Attleboro, 1823-7; at Hebronville, 1827-30; at Barrington, 1835-38.
He was a man of strong intellect and marked individuality. He was a Hopkinsian in theology, and a warm personal friend of Dr. Emmons, whose funeral sermon he preached. His preaching was marked by great honesty, earnestness, and scriptural authority, as the Bible was his constant study. Wit, satire, and invective, accompanied his arguments, and made his weapons of warfarre sharp and effective.
His last years were spent as an evangelist in Rhode Island, and in the publication of tracts and sermons, of which he printed several volumes. He was born in 1779, and died at Providence in 1876, aged ninety-seven years.
LEWIS B. SMITH
Son of Simon and Lydia BOSWORTH Smith, b. Sept. 14, 1817; occupation, farmer; m. (1) Anna D. MARTIN; children:
George L., Frederic P., Albert H.
m. (2) Judith R. PARKER, Nov. 2, 1862.
Offices held: Overseer of the Poor, member and President of the Town Council, member of State Board of Charities and Corrections, Representative and Senator in the Genearl Assembly, Deacon of Cong. Church, Treasurer of Cong. Society, Trustee of Public Library, etc. etc.
Died May 19, 1892.
THOMAS ALLIN
Son of Matthew and Ruth Allin, b. April 15, 1742. He entered public life early, and was elected first to the General Assembly in the year 1767, at the age of twenty-five. He was honored by re-election to the same office in 1772-6, 1781, 1791-8. He was a member of the town militia prior to the Revolution.
Gen. Allin was a leader in civil affairs as well as military, and his pen was as active as his sword in defense of human rights. Was a member of the Convention to adopt the Federal Constitution.
The residence he built and occupied before 1800, still stands at Drownville. His wife, Amy (BICKNELL) Allin, was as true a patiot as her husband, and conducted the affairs of the household and farm, with a large family of boys and girls to care for, during her husband's absence, with a prudent judgment, and success that entitled her to honorable mention among the mothers of the Revolution. In a letter to her husband, Aug. 19, 1778, Mrs. Allin writes:
"I hope you will put your trust in God and not in man, for it is He alone that is able to keep and preserve you from all harm, and to cover your head in the day of battle."
General Allin died May 30, 1800, and was buried at Drownville, in the Allin Burial Lot, on the ancestral farm. He ranks first among the Revolutionary heroes of Barrington.
MATTHEW WATSON
was born in County Colraine, Providence of Ulster, Ireland, March, 1696. His parents immigrated to Boston from Londonderry, Ireland, with six children, 1712. Presbyterians in belief, they were severely persecuted by the Catholics and were forced to escape from fanatical mobs by flight to America. From Boston, the family removed to a farm in Leicester, Mass., where the father, Robert Watson, was killed by the falling of a tree.
Matthew, the second of seven children, left home and lived with a family near Boston. His employer proved an excellent friend, and taught Matthew arithmetic, and other brances, and probably instructed him in the art of brick-making.
He came to Barrington at the age of twenty-two, and at the age of twenty-five we find him engaged in making brick upon the farm of Mr. John Read of Barrington. He had examined the clay, and found it to be of excellent quality, and wood could be procured at two and sixpence per load. At that time Newport was the market for all the brick not needed in Barrington, Warren and Bristol.
In 1733 Mr. Watson married Bethia READ, only daughter of Mr. John Read. The father was opposed to the union, because Bethia was about to throw herself away upon a "little poor Irishman." The parents and friends lived long enough to change their minds on this subject. Hw was soon able to purchase the farm of his father-in-law, and continued the manufacture of brick by the hand process, until he had amassed a fortune of over $80,000. He built a brick mansion, the first in the town, and set out many shade and fruit trees, the fruits of which his children and children's children have enjoyed.
The story is told that Mrs. Watson, from the wool of the flock of Watson farm, cleaned, carded, spun, colored, warped, wove, made up, and laid down in the parlor of the old house, now standing at Nayatt, the first woolen carpet in town. It was deemed so great a curiositiy and luxury, that people came long distances to see it, and ventured to walk upon it only upon tiptoe. On the walls of the same room it is said that the first wall paper was hung in Barrington.
Tradition adds that Mr. Watson introduced the first potatoes into the State from Ireland. When the first crop was ripe and ready for digging, a neighbor, ignorant and incredulous of the good qualities of the vegetable, was present, and picking up a potato, rubbed off the dirt, cut off a slice, and tasting it, threw it down with disgust, remarking, "I'd rather have a turnip."
His life was one of great energy, activity and usefullness, and worthy of imitation. He sustained the office of Justice of the Peace for many years, and was one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas for Bristol County.
He was always a friend to the friendless, and assisted the young who were virtuous and frugal. His wealth and hospitality were alike proverbial. His integrity he held fast throughout his life, and in a great and good old age descended to his grave in peace, "like a shock of corn fully ripe."
Mr. Watson was born in 1696, and died in 1803, and of but a few men can it be related as of him, that he was born in the seventeenth, lived through the eighteenth, and died in the nineteenth century, at the remarkable age of one hundred and seven years.
He was a member of the Congregational Church of Barrington upwards of fifty-six years, and his record on his tombstone says, "He was a shining ornament in his profession, and died in full prospect of a blessed immortality."
NATHANIEL MARTIN
Son of Ebenezer and Abigail (WHEELER) Martin; b. Jan. 1723; farmer and ship-builder; established a ferry across the river to Warren; was in War of the Revolution, and held the office of Colonell. His sons, Anthony and Luther, were also in the Revolution. In truth, Mr. Martin's family was one of the most loyal and self-sacrificing of patriotic Barrington.
BENJAMIN DROWN
Son of Alfred and Frances Drown; b. March 20, 1822; farmer; lived at Drownville; m. Amy Ann ALLIN, dau. of Thomas and Sarah Allin; was a member of the Town Council, and a Representative to the General Assembly from Barrington, 1862-63, and 64. He d. Feb. 1894. Mr. Drown led a quiet but industrious life, and was a respected and exemplary citizen.
HEZEKIAH WILLETT
Son of Thomas and Mary (BROWN) Willett; b. at Plymouth, 1653; m. Andia BROWN, of Swansea, Jan. 7, 1675; was murdered by the Indians in Philips War at Wannamoisett, July 1, 1675.
HIRAM DROWN
Son of Jeremiah S. Drown; b. Dec. 13, 1799; d. Nov. 27, 1866; farmer; m. Emeline DROWN: children:
Samuel M., Ann Frances, Charles E., Adeline E., William A.
Mr. Drown was an honest an dupright man and a faithful citizen.
ENOCH REMINGTON
Son of Enoch and Ruth (ARMINGTON) Remington; was born in Barrington, May 2, 1792; attended school for a short time and then followed the sea; m. Phebe SHORT, dau. of John and Betsy Short, Nov. 13, 1814; farmer and trader; kept store and tavern at the old Bicknell-Bowen tavern; was postmaster for many years, succeeding Josiah Kinnicutt; was a very active business man and saved a large property.
children:
Samuel, Lucretia S., William H., George A., Jeremiah S., Daniel S., Phebe A., George A.
ROYAL D. HORTON
Son of Royal and Eunice Horton; b. Bristol, R.I., June 28, 1835; m. Helen M. BROWN, Dec. 1, 1857; children:
Walter, Martha Dexter and Jennie Bucklin.
Member Cong. Ch.; member of school committee 25 years; a trustee of Public Library; chairman of Com. on Central bridge; member of Town Com., and State Central Com., business, manufacturing jewelry.
CHARLES H. MERRIMAN
Manufacturer, firm Henry Lippitt & Co.; has been a resident of Barrington since 1866, and is a valuable citizen; his experience in financial affairs has been of good service to the town and his judgment is seldom questioned on matters of public expenditure; was a member of the building committee of the town hall, which finished the building with the appropriation, with a balance in the town's favor.
JOSPEH U. STARKWEATHER
Born Pawtucket, Sept. 19, 1848; member of firm of Earl P. Mason & Co., 1865; afterwards associated with Rice, Draper, and Williams, dealers in drugs, chemicals, etc., now J. U. Starkweather & Co., in the same line of trade; took up his residence in Barrington in 1881, and has taken an active interest in all town matters; aided in securing telephone connections with Barrington, also the introduction of water from the Kickemuit reservoir, also electric lighting, as a result of which Barrington is now lighted in its streets and the town hall by electricity, furnished by the Bristol County Gas and Electric Co. It uses about 25 incandescent lights at an annual cost of $25 for each light. The churches, public buildings and most of the private houses are now lighted by electricity.
Mr. Starkweather has been among the foremost advocates of good roads, public buildings, schools, etc.; was president of the B.R.I. Association; a member and president of the Town Council; is treasurer of the Barrington Water Company.
REV. BENJAMIN R. ALLEN
Was born in Newport, of good Rhode Island stock, June 27, 1805. His mother was left a widow, with five children, when Benjamin was eight years old, and the boy was compelled to make a manly struggle for an education for the ministry. With Arnold of Rugby, he said, "It is not enough for a boy to go through college, but the college must go through him, if he would be a scholar," and he made the discipline of study a purpose of his life.
Mr. Allen was installed pastor of the Congregational Church, Barrington, Sept., 1838, and was dismissed at his own request in 1842, on account of inadequate salary. He writes, "I became very much attached to the beautiful town and the noble people, whose generous kindness I so richly enjoyed."
President Lord of Dartmouth College gives the following just tribute to his abilities: "I entertain for Mr. Allen very great respect as a true-hearted Christian, a sound theologian, and a judicious and effective minister. He has remarkable habits of study, and leaves nothing undone that is fitted to advance his ministry. He is a consistent, faithful, and thorough man, and the good impression taken of him will not easily be diminished. Mr. Allen is thought to stand at the head of his profession in his own vicinity, if not in the state, and deservedly ranks among the first ministers in New England, and is a very excellent representative of its remaining old school divines."
JOSPEH CARLO MAURAN
Born Villa Franca, Province of Nice, Italy, June 3, 1748; kidnapped, 1760; cabin boy on board transport ship hospital; came to United States and in 1768 made his home with Joshua Bicknell of Barrington; m. Olive BICKNELL (b. 1754), daughter of Joshua and Ruth Bicknell, in April 1772. Olive received at her marriage a lot of land on Barrington River, and later more of her father's farm, on which the Mauran residence was built.
During the Revolution Mr. Mauran was an ardent patriot. After the war Captain Mauran continued his seafaring life. From July, 1789 to December, 1790, his name is mentioned in the newspapers as captain of the brig Polly, eighty-four tons, trading in the West Indies.
He spent his last years at his pleasant home in Barrington, which was always the seat of a generous and abounding hospitality. Here he died May 1, 1813, in the sixty-fifth year of his age. His widow outlived him less than one year, her death taking place Feb. 12, 1814.
Joseph Carlo Mauran is described as having been a person of tall, commanding appearance. His eldest son, Carlo, whose likeness has been preserved, bore a striking resemblance to his father. Their figures are alike and they had the same noble, frank and open countenance, florid complexion, and black, curling hair. It is said that when Joseph Carlo came from his rural home to Providence and walked the streets of the town, every one would turn round to look at him, so attractive was his personal appearance.
His biographer says of him:
"In his public and private life he was
A man resolved and steady to his trust,
Inflexible to ill and obstinately just."
In remembrance of such a character what break does not glow with veneration and respect? And who amongst his numerous friends and acquaintances does not experience the liveliest pangs of sorrow and affliction, when the idea of his loss enters their minds. Yesterday his funeral obsequies were solemnized in this town (Barrington) by the General Lode (Masonic) of the state of Rhode Island, of which he was an honorary and highly beloved member, attended by subordinate lodges, an afflicted consort, and by a long train of relatives and friends."
THE MARTINS
Hold a high rank among the families of Barrington, and descended from John Martin, son of Richard, who settled at Swansea in 1668, and was a member of the John Myles Church; in 1673 he bought land on New Meadow Neck, near "Hundred Acre Cove," and built a house, which stood on the high land north of the Central Bridge; he died March, 1713, aged 80; he had nine children, among whom were:
Melatiah, John, Ephraim, Manassah and Ebenezer.
The youngest son, Ebenezer, lived on the homestead in Barrington; m. Abigail WHEELER, 1716;
children Jemima, John, Ebenezer, Nathaniel and Abigial.
John, son of Ebenezer, m. Mary REED,
children, Abigail, Samuel, Benjamin John, born 1718, was a captain of the militia in the Revolution, bought the interests of his brothers in the homestead and built a new house which is now standing near the east end of the Central Bridge; his sons, Samuel and Benjamin, were in the Revolution.
SAMUEL R. MARTIN
Only son of Capt. Benjamin and Sarah Martin; was born in Barrington Nov. 15, 1782, m. Sally BOWEN, dau. of Jeremiah Bowen. Like his father he was captain of a militia company in Barrington. He was a man very much respected and held many offices in town, being a representative and a member of the Town Council. He died Aug. 28, 1840, aged 58 years; children, Benjamin, Sarah A., Joseph B.
BENJAMIN MARTIN
Oldest son of Capt. Samuel R. Martin; was born in Barrington, Aug. 28, 1815; m. Julia R. DROWN, dau. of Jeremiah S. Drown. Mr. Martin was captain of a militia company, and like his ancestors for three generations was known as Captain Martin. He was a member of the Congregational Church for over 39 years, having joined with his wife in May, 1862; at the age of twenty-five he was elected a member of the Town Council, and when he retired from office had been councillor over 30 years. He was for a number of years Assessor of taxes and member of the school committee.
He died Dec. 12, 1895, aged 80 years and four months; his wife died Dec. 26, 1885, aged 73 years; children, Charles E., Samuel R., Sarah E., Jeremiah D., Julia M.
JOSEPH B. MARTIN
Son of Samuel R. and Sally (BOWEN) Martin; b. at the Martin homestead, April 28, 1823; m. Mary A. DROWN, dau. of Solomon, April 15, 1847. Mr. Martin was a member of the Town Council in 1860 and '61 and assessor of taxes for some years; he has also held the office of highway surveyor.
children:
Mary E., William R., John E., Harry A., Clara A.
Mrs. Martin died April 22, 1894, aged 70 years and 3 months.
In 1842 Mr. Martin went to the Dorr War in Barrington Company.
WILLIAM R. MARTIN
Oldest son of Joseph B. and Mary A. Martin, b. April 25, 1852; occupation, mason and contractor; m. Ella A. BAGGS of Hopkinton, R.I. In May, 1867, he joined the Congregational Church. His only military experience was in 1870, when for a few weeks he was a member of the Barrington Centennial Escort under command of Capt. George L. Smith. He was elected a member of the Town Council in 1888 to 1892, and 1898, and has served the town on various committees, and minor offices. He is a member of Sowamset Lodge, No. 2, A.O.U.W. of Warren, and Barrington Council, No. 3, O.U.A.M.
THE BARNES FAMILY
From Thomas and Prudence Barnes, who were in Swansea as early as 1669; was ordained as a minister in 1693; and died in 1706. children:
Lydia, Thomas, Sarah, Elizabeth, Anne, m. Thomas ALLIN; John, m. Mercy ALLIN; Peter, Samuel, Hannah.
For full record see Austin's Gen. Dictionary and Arnold's Vital Records of Bristol County.
THE VIALLS
Are from John Viall, born in England about 1619; was in Boston, 1639, and joined the first church of that town, 1641; was a vintner and kept the "Ship Tavern" from 1662 to 1679; m. (1) Mary ____; m. (2) Elizabeth SMITH; moved to Wannamoisett (Swansea) 1619 [sic? that was his birth year); and bought 600 acres of land of Thomas Willett. In his will he names wife Elizabeth, and children John Nathaniel, Mary Hopestill, Sarah, Abigail, but the Boston records give the Baptism of eleven children, one of whom was Benjamin, the ancestor of the Barrington Vialls.
THE TIFFANYS
Are from Humphrey and Elizabeth Tiffany, who were at Rehoboth in 1663-4. The account of the tragic death of Humphrey Tiffany is gien in the diary of the celebrated jurist, Samuel Sewall:
"Wednesday, P.M. July 15. Very dark and great Thunder and Lightning. One Humphrey Tiffany and Frances Low, Daughter of Antony Low, are slain with the Lightning and Thunder, about a mile or half a mile beyond Billingses Farm, the Horse also slain, that they rode on, and another Horse in Company slain, and his rider who held the garment on to steady it at the time of the Stroke, a coat or cloak, stounded but not killed. Were coming to Boston. Antony Low being in Town the sad Bill was put up with (regard) of that Solemn judgment of God; Fast day Forenoon. July 15, 1685. 2 Persons 2 Horses."
On Oct. 27, 1685, Elizabeth, widow of Humphrey Tiffany was appointed administratrix on his estate by the General Court of Plymouth. His son, Ebenezer, b. 1663, owned a large tract of land eastward from Mouscochuck Creek, and his house stood near the site of the R.R. station at Nyatt. The name Ebenezer has been retained in the family to the present time when there are two of the name, father and son.
THE LOW FAMILY
Is from John and Elizabeth Low of Boston; wheelwright; d. 1653; son Anthony, of Boston, Warwick and Swansea; m. Frances _____. John Winthrop wrote to Roger Williams that he had a report that the Indians "had burnt about twelve houses, one new great one, Anthonie Loes." In Swansea; was captain of the sloop Dolphin, which he owned and gave to his son Samuel; also gave to Samuel his houses after his widow's death; will bears date Aug. 6, 1692; his widow Frances, d. 1702, aged about 70, and was buried at Tyler's Point Burial Ground.
Children, John, Samuel, Elizabeth Ann, Anthony Low, 1678.
SAMUEL LOW
of Anthony; m. (1) Ann; m. (2) Rachel.
children:
Samuel, b. 1701.
Anne.
Rachel.
Samuel and second wife, Rachel, died 1718; Samuel owned 400 acres of land, 300 sheep, 50 head of cattle, 4 negroes, val. 130 pounds, etc. etc.
SAMUEL LOW
of Samuel, of Anthony, b. Mar. 29, 1701; m. Isabel GREENE.
children:
Ann, m. Joseph BOSWORTH Jr., Dec. 10, 1743.
Hooker.
John Wilson, m. (1) Lydia; children Lydia, b. 1754, Rachel, 1756, John Wilson, Oct. 25, 1757.
Married (2) Judith GLADDING of Rehoboth, Sept. 28, 1762.
Married (3) Mary PEARCE, child Elizabeth.
mother, Mary, d. Oct., 1816, in her 96th year.
John W., Sen., d. 1813.
HOOKER LOW
of Samuel[4], of Samuel[3], of Anthony[2], of John[1], m. Elizabeth KINNICUTT.
children:
Wilson, b. 1751.
Wilson 2d, b. 1753.
Sarah, 1754.
Hooker, 1756.
Wilson 3d, 1758.
Anstress, 1759.
Amy, 1761.
John Wilson, 1764.
Hooker sold the farm and brick mansion house under the great elms at the corners at Barrington Centre to Hon. Paul Mumford.
JOSEPH RAWSON
Second son of Edward; was born in Mendon, Aug. 18, 1768; grad. at Rhode Island College, A.D. 1794; was rector of the Academy at Bristol, R.I., a number of years. He married Mrs. Rebecca BULLOCK of Providence, widow of Capt. William Bullock, and eldest dau. of Gen. Thomas ALLEN, Dec. 21, 1797; settled in Bristol and was for several years the first cashier of the Bank of Bristol, and his reason for leaving the bank was "in consequence of the Rev. Abraham L. Clark, the Episcopal minister, offering to be its cashier for one hundred dollars less than he had been paid. It was quite a ministerial move for the bread and fishes."
He afterward removed to Barrington, and was a representative in the General Assembly in 1808. He also held other responsible offices such as justice of the peace, chief justice of the Court of Common Pleas for Bristol County, etc. etc.
GEORGE LEWIS SMITH
Oldest son of Lewis B. Smith; farmer, soldier, Captain in the Civil War, officer of Customs, Representative, Senator, member of Board of State Charities and Correction, member of school committee and superintendent of schools, Assessor of taxes, President of B.R.I. Society, etc. etc.
Mr. Smith enlisted as a private in the Second R.I.V. Reg. in 1861, served throughout the war and received an honorable discharge in 1865.
Mr. Smith is a man of practical business ability, liberal in views, generous, public spirited, conservative in action. His army record is one of which he is justly proud and in it he rendered the longest service, and attained the highest rank of the Barrington soldiers, the captaincy.
In the autumn of 1891, Mr. Smith, wife, and daughter, started with others a trip around the world, returning in 1892. They crossed the continent to California, thence across the Pacific, visiting Japan, India, Palestine, and the European countries, with great delight and profit to all.
Mr. Smith is influential in the Republican party, and has enjoyed a full share of its honors. Both Mr. and Mrs. Smith have been actively engaged in all the efforts made for building up New Barrington along the lines established by the earlier families.
Married Adelaide E. PECK, of Asa and Lucretia S. Peck, Dec. 27, 1865; children:
George Howard, m. Olive B. HOMES, children: Mildred R., Lewis B., Harold H.
Anna D., m. George R. GRAY, D.D.S., of Worcester, Mass.
THE PAINES
are descended from Stephen Paine[1], who came from Great Ellingham, County Norfolk, England, and settled at Hingham and was at Rehoboth in 1638. His son, Stephen[2], m. Anne CHICKERING, and his son Nathaniel[3], b. Nov. 20, 1667, m. Dorothy CHAFFEE May 1, 1694, children: Dorothy, Nathaniel[4], Jonathan, Rachel, Elizabeth.
Nathaniel[4], b. May 24, 1697, m. Abigail SMITH, children, Abigail, Dorothy, Nathaniel[5], John.
Nathaniel[5], b. May 9, 1728, m. Mary HEATH, children, Sarah, Nathaniel[6], Peleg[6], Comfort, Mary, Abigial.
Nathaniel[6], m. Mrs. Olive (BLISS) GOFF, children, Dorothy, Rosana, Olive, John, Lucinda, Comfort, Cyrene, Nathaniel, Paschal, 1796.
Peleg[6], m. Joanna VIALL, children: Mary and Sarah R., no Thomas ALLIN; Keziah b. 1782, m. John W. BICKNELL; Joanna m. Dr. Theoph. HUTCHINS; Pamelia, Fanny, Almira, Abigail m. Dr. Jacob FULLER of Providence.
It is said Peleg was at Lexington as sergeant in 1775. He enlisted April 21, 1777, as corporal, and stationed at Tiverton, R.I., Capt. Nathaniel Carpenter's Company, John Hathaway's Regt., 23 days; May, 13, 1777, again enlisted Captain Carpenter's Company, Josiah Whiting's Reg., marched to Rehoboth and from Rehoboth to South Kingston, R.I.; discharged July 5, 1777; was corporal at this time July 27, and again Aug. 1 to 9, 1780; was sergeant in Capt. Jabez Bullock's Company, Col. Thomas Carpenter's Reg., under General Heath; marched to Tiverton, R.I. July 22, 1780.
KEZIAH PAINE
m. John W. BICKNELL, lived in Barrington at the Bowen Tavern stand near the Congregational meeting-house.
children:
1. George Willson, b. Nov. 7, 1807; m. Abigail RAWSON.
2. Amanda, b. Nov. 18, 1809; m. Samuel B. COOPER.
3. Otis Paine, b. June 10, 1813; m. Miss WELLS.
4. Edwin, b. July 18, 1814; m. Miss FISHER.
5. Almira Paine, b. June 1, 1816; m. R.P. CRANE.
6. Charles H., b. March 7, 1818; m. Eliza GOODHUE.
7. Andrew H., b. Feb. 6, 1820; d. unmarried.
8. Martha Wilson, b. April 19, 1822; d. unmarried.
9. Anna Maria, b. April 19, 1825; d. unmarried.
10. Rebeccah Warren, adopted; m. Mr. DICKEY.
THOMAS WILLETT
was associated with the Leyden congregation in Holland in 1629, and came to Plymouth in the ship Lion, 1632 or 33; m. Mary BROWN, dau. of Hon. John Brown, July 6, 1636; children:
Mary, b. Nov. 10, 1638, m. Rev. Samuel HOOKER.
Martha, b. Aug. 6, 1639, m. John SAFFIN, lawyer and judge of Scituate, Boston and Bristol.
John, b. Aug. 21, 1641, m. Abigail COLLINS, 1663, and died soon after.
Sarah, b. May 4, 1643, m. John ELIOT, son of the Apostle, John Eliot.
Rebecca, b. Dec. 2, 1644, d. at age of 7.
Thomas, b. Oct. 1, 1646.
Esther, b. July 6, 1647. m. Rev. Josiah FLINT of Dorchester, and d. July 26, 1737.
James, b. Nov. 23, 1649, m. Elizabeth HUNT.
Hezekiah, b. July 26, 1651, d. infant.
Hezekiah, b. Nov. 7, 1650, m. Anna (or Andia) BROWN, dau. of John Brown Jr., Jan. 7, 1675, and was murdered by the Indians at Wannamoisett July 1, 1676.
David, b. Nov. 1, 1654, d. young.
Andrew, b. Oct. 5, 1655, m. Ann CODDINGTON.
Samuel, b. Oct. 27, 1658, m. _____; had 13 children.
Mary Willett, d. Jan. 8, 1669.
Thomas Sen., m. (2) Mrs. Joanna PRUDDEN, Sept. 19, 1671. He died Aug. 4, 1674, and is buried with his wife, Mary, at Little Neck, Wannamoisett.
Business, merchant, trader, and farmer; offices held, Captian of Plymouth militia, Assistant to Governor, 1651-1664; member of Council of war; Assistant Commander in chief at Manhattan, Mayor of New York for two terms from June, 1665; co-founder of Swansea with John Myles and John Brown, and several other town offices in Town and Colony.
REV. SHEARJASHUB BOURNE
is a descendant from the noted family of that name of Bristol. His ancestor, Shearjashub Bourne, m. Ruth CHUCH in 1747, and the old Bible name has been an heir-loom in the family and its offshoots. Mr. Bourne is a Congregational minister and has filled useful pastorates in New York City and vicinity.
Mr. Bourne, with his family, has been a resident of Barrington for several years, and is thoroughly a Barrington man in spirit and action. One son, Alexander, is a graduate of B.U., and a pastor of the Congregational Church at Exeter, N.H.
THE GARDNERS
John Q.A. and his sons, have identified themselves with the best interests of the town since their residence at Rumstick. Their farm contains the celebrated Scamscammuck Spring, which is worthy of bearing the name of the distinguished Indian chief, who dwelt on Barrington soil. The evidences of Indian occupation of these lands are varied and interesting, and the owners of Scamscammuck prize it, not only for the abundance, purity, and coolness of its waters, but also for its aboriginal associations.
Mr. J.Q.A. Gardner has held several town offices, and has been a Representative, and Mr. Herbert M. Gardner has been elected as moderator of town meetings, and a member and president of the Town Council.
Among those of our adopted citizens of foreign birth, who have contributed to the growth of the town and by their industry, prudence, and other distinguishing individual qualities, have made a good record for themselves and families, may be named, John Burke, James Doran, Patrick Martin, James Kirby, Robert Tobin.
Barrington has always been a hospitable home for honest men of whatever race, color, or religion, and the fact that the children of some of the families named have attained professional eminence and a fair share of this world's goods, is evidence of the truth of the lines:
"Honor and shame from no conditions rise;
Act well they part, there all honor lies."
THE HEATHS
are from Rev. Peleg Heath, the minister of the Congregational Church.
THE PECKS
are from Joseph Peck, who came to America with his brother, Rev. Robert Peck, in the ship Diligent, in 1638, and landed at Hingham. The town records say, "Mr. Joseph Peck, with his wife and three sons and daughter, and two men servants and three maid servants, came from Old Hingham, and settled at New Hingham."
CHARLES ERASTUS SMITH
Contracting mason; has rendered valuable service to the town as Superintendent of Highways, by introducing better methods of road construction, and the use of better material. Under his administration of the highway department, Barrington roads took the lead for solidity and durability among the County towns. Mr. Smith also superindtended the setting of the shade trees, and had the care of them for several years.
THE ALLINS
Are from William and Elizabeth Allin of Prudence Island and Annawomscutt, Swansea, who bought a large tract of land which included the present village of Drownville, and built a house and became residents before 1670. In his will, proved 1685, he gave "to second son, Thomas, my now dwelling house in Swansea, only half thereof to be for Elizabeth, for life, and the stock thereon, equally to wife and son Thomas."
THOMAS[2]
Son of William[1], m. Anne BARNES, dau. of Thomas Barnes; children:
Elizabeth, Matthew, Thomas, Anne, Rebecca, Alathea and Abigail.
By his will he gave his estate to his sons, Matthew and Thomas, equally, after widow's dower.
His sister Mercy m. John BARNES, son of Thomas and Prudence Barnes.
Thomas[2] died Aug. 11, 1719.
MATTHEW ALLIN[3]
Born June, 1679, m. Ruth STOCKBRIDGE; children, seven daughters and two sons, Thomas[4], b. 1742, and Matthew[4], b. 1744; five of their seven daughters died between the 21st of Aug. and the 15th of Sept., 1740; Matthew[3] died 1761.
MATTHEW ALLIN[4]
Married (1) Elizabeth TIFFANY, 1767; m. (2) Bathsheba PECK; m. (3) Molly HALL; no children of record. Matthew[4] was a Captain in the Revolution.
THOMAS ALLIN[4]
Married Amy BICKNELL, dau. of Peter Bicknell, May 29, 1768; children:
William, 1768-1829.
Rebecca, m. (2) Joseph RAWSON.
Amy, m. John HORN
Thomas, m. (1) Mary R. PAINE; m. (2) Sarah R. PAINE, children: Ethan, Ira, m. _____; Nancy, M. Samuel Drown; Elizabeth W., m. Allin BICKNELL; Shearjashub, George, John Jay[4].
JOHN JAY ALLIN
John Jay Allin of New York, seventh generation from William[1], and three generations from Gen. Thomas Allin, now owns and occupies a summer residence at Annawomscutt, on land once owned by his ancestor, William, of whom he is a worthy descendant.
His line is Capt. John Jay Allin[7], John Jay Allin, Sen.[6], Ira Allin[5], Gen. Thomas Allin[4], Matthew Allin Esq.[3], Thomas Allin Esq.[2], William Allin Esq.[1] of Annawomscutt, 1667-1685.
NATHANIEL WAIT SMITH
Son of Nathaniel C. and Sally B. Smith; b. Dec. 18, 1842; m. Emily F. COLE, April, 1870; children:
Walter C., 1871.
Nathaniel Jr., 1873.
Became a partner Jan. 1, 1873, in the well-known firm of Geo. L. Claflin & Co., wholesale druggists, in Providence, and devoted himself most faithfully to the duties of his chosen calling. He possessed a more than ordinary aptitude for commercial affairs, and although but thirty-three years of age when he died, had already won for himself an enviable reputation for sterling integrity, untiring industry, and executive capacity of no small degree. He was deservedly popular with all classes. Died July 7, 1878.
CARLO MAURAN
Son of Joseph C. and Olive B. Mauran; b. March 12, 1779; m. Sallie SMITH, March 27, 1805; he died Nov. 27, 1844; she died Nov. 5, 1866; was a member of the firm of C. & J. Mauran, Providence; was an able and successful business man; had a fine physique, a manly and dignified carriage, and bore a striking resemblance to his father, whom he was also like in character; his biographer says of him:
"A good man has gone; an affectionate husband, an indulgent father, a devoted and faithful friend, and an honest and upright citizen has been taken from us."
JOSHUA MAURAN
Son of Joseph C. and Olive B. Mauran; b. March 12, 1782; m. Abigial WINSOR, Jan. 7, 1808; he died Jan. 1, 1847; she died Oct. 15, 1873; Joshua was a member of the firm of C. & J. Mauran, who, as leading merchants of Providence, were distinguished for their commercial enterprise and honor. At his death, in respect to his character and memory, the flags of the shipping in the harbor were displayed at half mast, and the members of the Marine Society attended his funeral in a body.
JOSEPH MAURAN
Son of Joseph C. and Olive B. Mauran; b. Dec. 22, 1796; m. Sophia R. STERRY, Oct. 11, 1820; he d. June 8, 1873; she d. Aug .28, 1854. Dr. Joseph Mauran was a successful physician, an active and influential citizen of Providence, and an accomplished, Christian gentleman.
SUCHET MAURAN
Son of Joseph C. and Olive B. Mauran; b. April 3, 1794; m. (1) Sophia W. BOWEN; m. (2) Fannie W. PERKINS; he died Sept. 28, 1871; Sophia d. April 14, 1847; Fannie d. June 25, 1884.
Suchet was a sea captain until 1851, after which he was chosen President of the Atlantic Insurance Co., of Providence. He was a man of excellent judgment, social, hospitable, and an "old school gentleman."
ISAAC T. BARNUM
is one of the most useful citizens of Barrington, and has supplied the town with meat and provisions for many years. His army record is an honorable one, and he has held many town offices, the most important of which were member of Town Council and Representative. He married Edna, dau. of George K. VIALL, to whom several children have been given.
ANNAWOMSCUTT
This village of summer residents is located near Annawomscutt Creek, from which it takes its name, and was founded in the seventies by leading citizens of Pawtucket seeking cottage homes on Narragansett Bay.
Among the pioneers in the purchase of land, and the building of elegant summer cottages, were Gen. Olney ARNOLD, Hon. Gideon L. SPENCER, James BROWN, Esq., Gen. William R. WALKER, Gov. Alfred H. Littlefield, Lieut. Gov. Daniel G. Littlefield, and others. The location of this beautiful village is between Bullock's and Nayatt Points, and commands both passages of the Bay, the Islands, and the east and west shores. The land on which the cottages stand was a part of the Sowams Purchase of Massacoit in 1653; was purchased by William Allin, Senior, about 1669, and under its soil sleep the bones of Wampanoag Indians, and the implements of agriculture and hunting are found near the surface. Lovers of romance, poetry, and lovely summer scenes can revel at will at beautiful "Annawomscutt on the Bay."
JAMES BOWEN
Son of Jeremiah and Lillas Bowen; born Jan., 1773, died Oct. 27, 1856, at the ripe age of 83 years. His father was a sea captain, and James commenced a sailor's life at the early age of ten and continued to follow the seas for thirty years. Before his twenty-fifth birthday he commanded the brig Agenora, a merchant vessel, with officers and crew younger than himself.
His school education was very limited, owing to the reverses shared by his family in time of the Revolution, yet his close observation and careful study of men gave him a clear insight into business and a sound judgment in practical life. By fortunate risks, careful attention to business, and a wise economy, he gathered a goodly share of wealth. His townsmen honored him with many public offices, among which was that of being the first senator from Barrington in the General Assembly. Mr. Bowen was judge of the Court of Common Pleas for Bristol County for several years. Captain and Judge Bowen lived a useful and honored life and was lamented at his death.
RICHARD VIALL
Son of Anson and Elizabeth Viall; b. 1834; in early life a jeweler at Attleboro, Mass., and Providence; later entered the employ of The Brown & Sharpe Mfg. Company, Providence, where, by unquestioned ability and faithful service, has attained and holds the responsible position of superintendent of that great establishment. Mr. Viall is a firm believer in the doctrine that the discipline of education, devotion to business, and correct habits of living are the fundamentals to success is all departments of life, and what he believes he has practised through a successful career.
Among the builders of New Barrington, reference has been made to Mr. William H. SMITH and Mrs. Martha B. Smith, whose activities were devoted to the best interests of the town. Mr. Smith was honored with several town offices and was a representative in the Legislature. Mrs. Smith was a woman of unusual mental and moral power, and with larger opportunities would have ranked with the best intellects of her sex. Her mind was clear, original, vigorous, always seeking for the truth, and in her family, in the church and in society was a leader in thought and action. Her life has inspired all to noble motives and conceptions of life, and a daughter, Mrs. Hannah B. BUFFINGTON, holds the responsible position of matron of the Home for Aged Men in Providence. The epitaph to her husband well applies to Mrs. Smith, who passed on to the higher life in a serene old age.
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