Albums
Matches 1 to 46 of 46
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| 1 | Acadian Expulsion The Acadian Expulsion, also known as the Great Upheaval or "le grand dérangement", refers to the forced removal of the Acadian people from the North American region historically known as Acadia, which included the modern Canadian Maritime provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island, along with the U.S. state of Maine. This event was a defining moment in Acadian history. The expulsion was carried out by the British between 1755 and 1764. The Governor of Nova Scotia, Charles Lawrence, ordered Acadians to swear allegiance to Britain or face imprisonment or deportation. The Acadians, who were French settlers, had been living in the region since the first decade of the 17th century. However, the British, who took over Acadia in 1713, did not trust the Acadians and feared they might side with France in the ongoing conflicts between the two European powers The expulsion process was brutal and resulted in significant loss of life. Thousands of Acadians died in the expulsions, mainly from diseases and drowning when ships were lost. The Acadians were dispersed among various colonies on the Atlantic coast, and many were sent to France, Britain, and the Caribbean. Many families were separated during this period and never reunited. Sadly, many of our ancestors were caught up in these events. |
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| 2 | American Civil War The American Civil War was a conflict fought between the United States of America and the Confederate States of America, a collection of eleven southern states that seceded from the Union between 1860 and 1861. The war lasted from 1861 to 1865. Surprisingly, I have yet to identify a single ancestor from whom we are directly descended who fought in the Civil War. For our ancestors who lived through this time, it seemed most were either too young or too old during those four years. I have, however, uncovered many uncles and cousins who fought on the Union side of the Civil War, and in this collection I present that research. |
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| 3 |  | Ancestors Killed in Native American Raids This collection focuses on a particularly challenging chapter of my family's past, dating back to the 1600s and early 1700s in colonial America, a time marked by conflict and cultural clashes. The era we are delving into was characterized by profound misunderstandings and tensions between the European settlers and the Native American tribes, each defending their way of life in an ever-changing landscape. The Native American tribes, with their rich and diverse cultures, had been living on this land for thousands of years. Their connection to the land was deep-rooted, and their societies were complex and varied. The arrival of European settlers brought unprecedented changes, often leading to conflicts, as both groups sought to protect their communities and resources. In this context, my ancestors, like many others, faced challenges and hardships. Some of them tragically lost their lives in raids conducted by Native American tribes. These events were undoubtedly painful and significant for my family's history. In presenting the list of my ancestors and their stories, I hope to provide a respectful tribute to their lives, acknowledging the tragedy they faced while also recognizing the broader historical context that led to these events. |
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| 4 | Living At least one living or private individual is linked to this item - Details withheld. |
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| 5 |  | Before the King’s Daughters: Filles a Marier (1634-1662) The Filles à Marier were courageous and pioneering women who shaped the early days of New France. Between 1634 and 1663, these "marriageable girls" embarked on a journey from France to the untamed wilderness of what is now Canada, driven by a desire for autonomy and a better life. Unlike their successors, the Filles du Roi, the Filles à Marier were not sponsored by the state and did not receive a dowry from the King. Their decision to migrate was a bold one, motivated by the prospect of greater freedom and the unprecedented opportunity to choose their own husbands – a stark contrast to the rigid norms of arranged marriages back in France. Their impact on the colonization of New France was profound. Of all the single women who arrived in New France through 1673, a quarter were Filles à Marier. These 262 women, often recruited and chaperoned by religious groups, played a pivotal role in the early population growth of the colony. Life in New France was far from easy. These resilient women faced the perilous ocean crossing, the constant threat of conflict with the Iroquois, the rigors of subsistence farming, brutal winters, and the ever-present danger of disease. Yet, they persevered. Most were married and began families within a year of their arrival, laying the foundations of a new society in a harsh but promising land. To be recognized as a Fille à Marier, a woman had to arrive in New France before September 1663, be of marriageable age (12 through 45), and either marry or sign a marriage contract in the colony, without being accompanied by both parents or a husband. In our family history, the legacy of the Filles à Marier is deeply ingrained. My husband and I are descended from at least 49 of these remarkable women, and our research continues to uncover more connections. Each of them not only survived but thrived in the face of adversity, contributing to our rich ancestral tapestry. This section is dedicated to their stories, their struggles, and their triumphs. As we explore the lives of these extraordinary women, we pay homage to their spirit and the indelible mark they left on our family and the history of New France. |
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| 6 |  | Black Sheep In the intricate web of family history, we often stumble upon ancestors who stand out as the proverbial 'black sheep.' These individuals, whose actions diverged from the norms and expectations of their times, have left behind a trail of stories ranging from the mildly scandalous to the deeply troubling. Historical records, when carefully examined, reveal tales of ancestors who faced the Colonial courts for drunken misdemeanors, endured public shame for illicit affairs, or were implicated in more grievous acts like theft, violence, and even rape. These narratives, while sometimes amusing in their absurdity or shocking in their severity, form an essential part of our family's multifaceted history, offering a glimpse into the societal values and personal struggles of the past. |
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| 7 |  | Boston Brahmin Ancestors The term "Boston Brahmin" refers to a specific social class in Boston, Massachusetts, representing a cultural and intellectual elite. Originating in the 19th century, this term was coined by writer and physician Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr., who used it in an 1861 article in the "Atlantic Monthly." The term "Brahmin" is borrowed from the caste system of Hindu society, where Brahmins are the highest caste, traditionally associated with priests and scholars. In the context of Boston society, it describes a class of wealthy, educated, and influential families with deep ancestral roots in New England, often traced back to the early colonial period. We have a number of ancestors listed among the Boston Brahmin, primarily from the Adams and Dudley families. |
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| 8 |  | Brackett Lane Massacre The Brackett Lane Massacre, also known as the Brackett Massacre or Brackett Raid, occurred on September 29, 1691, in what is now Rye, New Hampshire. A group of about forty Native Americans came down the coast from York, Maine, seeking revenge. Ten settlers were killed in the marsh while cutting hay, three were killed when their homes were burned, and seven were captured and taken to Canada. The victims were primarily from the Brackett and Rand families. Anthony Brackett and his wife Eleanor, original settlers who arrived at Sandy Beach (now Rye, New Hampshire) in 1630, and my 10th great grandparents, were killed along with several of their children and grandchildren. His home was also burned in the raid. |
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| 9 | Living At least one living or private individual is linked to this item - Details withheld. |
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| 10 |  | Casco Bay Massacre The raids of August 1676 were a significant part of the Northeast Coast campaign during King Philip's War, a conflict that pitted Native American tribes against English settlers in New England. These raids were orchestrated by the Wabanaki Confederacy, a coalition of Native American tribes, targeting colonial American settlements along the border of the New England Colonies and Acadia in what is now Maine. During the initial month of this campaign, the Wabanaki Confederacy wreaked havoc along approximately 45 miles of the coast east of Casco Bay. They were responsible for the deaths and capture of numerous colonists, as well as the burning of many farms. This aggressive campaign effectively halted the expansion of colonial American settlements in the region, compelling the colonists to abandon their homes and retreat to the relative safety of Salem, Massachusetts. A poignant account came from Thaddeus Clark of Casco Bay, who wrote to his mother-in-law in 1676. He described the tragic fate of family members and friends who had been killed or captured in the area of Falmouth, later known as Portland. His letter mentioned the Brackett family, our ancestors, who were living on land deeded by Warrabitta in 1670. The attack on the Brackett family and others, who had allegedly violated the terms of their agreements with Warrabitta, suggests that the raid was a form of retribution for perceived fraud. These raids were part of the larger context of King Philip's War, which spanned from 1675 to 1676, and marked a tumultuous and violent chapter in the history of the New England region. In this collection, I present my research on our ancestors who were impacted by this event. |
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| 11 |  | Cocheco Massacre The Cocheco Massacre, also known as the Raid on Dover, was a tragic event that took place in Dover, New Hampshire, on June 27, 1689, during King William's War. This raid was orchestrated by Chief Kancamagus of the Pennacook tribe as an act of retribution against Major Richard Waldron. Dover, established in 1623, had witnessed over fifty years of peaceful coexistence between English settlers and the local Penacook tribe. However, this harmony deteriorated due to perceived betrayals and encroachments on tribal lands by the settlers. On the fateful day of the massacre, Indian women discreetly unlocked the gates, allowing several hundred Pennacooks to infiltrate the area in the early morning hours. They stormed Major Waldron's garrison, overpowering and mortally wounding him with a slash across his chest. The attack resulted in the death of 23 people and the capture of 29, accounting for approximately a quarter of Dover's population at the time. Notably, some of our ancestors were among those affected by this tragic event. The Cocheco Massacre signified a major escalation in the conflict between the settlers and the Pennacook tribe, leading to additional clashes that persisted for the next six decades. |
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| 12 |  | Connections to the Magna Carta Imagine finding out you're not just linked to a pivotal slice of history, but directly descended from both sides of it. That's my story. I'm a 25th great-grandchild of King John of England and also connected to 12 of the 25 barons who played a key role in the Magna Carta. This isn't just a chapter from a history book for me; it's a personal journey through my family's past. Few documents have resonated through the ages like the Magna Carta. The Magna Carta emerged from a period of tumult and tyranny. King John, my ancestor, often remembered more for his vices than virtues, was at the heart of this drama. His reign, marked by military failures, exorbitant taxation, and disputes with the Church, set the stage for a historic standoff between the crown and its subjects. |
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| 13 |  | Founding Families of Braintree Braintree, Massachusetts, boasts a rich history dating back to its initial colonization in 1625 by Captain Wollaston. Originally named Mount Wollaston, the area was later called Merry Mount under Thomas Morton's rule. It was resettled and officially incorporated as Braintree in 1640, taking its name from the English town. Originally, Braintree encompassed a larger area, including present-day Randolph, Holbrook, Quincy, and parts of Milton. Today, as a suburban community 10 miles south of Boston, Braintree maintains its historical legacy, promoting local landmarks to tourists and cherishing its significant role in shaping American history. |
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| 14 |  | Founding Families of Dover Dover, New Hampshire, holds the distinction of being the oldest permanent settlement in the state and the seventh oldest in the United States, established in 1623 by William and Edward Hilton at Pomeroy Cove on Dover Point. Originally known as Bristol, the area saw a second settlement at Dover Neck in 1633. Briefly an independent colony named Northam, it was officially named Dover in 1637, potentially after Robert Dover, an English lawyer known for his resistance to Puritanism. The early township encompassed what are now Durham, Madbury, Newington, Lee, Somersworth, and Rollinsford. Nicknamed "the Garrison City" due to its garrisoned homes built from abundant trees for protection, Dover thrived despite challenges. The town utilized the Cocheco River for industrial purposes as early as 1642, starting with a sawmill, and later developing an extensive shipbuilding industry in the 1700s. By 1830, Dover had evolved into a prominent cotton goods manufacturer, with the Dover Cotton Factory established in 1814 marking the beginning of its textile industry. |
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| 15 |  | Founding Families of Exeter Exeter, New Hampshire, has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1638 by John Wheelwright. Wheelwright, a clergyman exiled from the Puritan Massachusetts Bay Colony, purchased the land from Wehanownowit, the sagamore of the area. He named the town after Exeter in Devon, England, and brought about 175 individuals to establish the settlement. Exeter was one of the four original townships in the province and initially included Newmarket, Newfields, Brentwood, Epping, and Fremont. The town's early economy was based on hunting, planting, fishing, raising cattle and swine, and producing shakes (shingles) and barrel staves. Thomas Wilson established the town's first grist mill on the eastern side of the island in the lower falls. The Gilman family, early settlers from Hingham, England, played a significant role in Exeter's development. They were involved in lumber, shipbuilding, and trading as far as the West Indies. Exeter was also notable for its political significance. In 1774, the rebellious Provincial Congress began to meet in the Exeter Town House after being banned from Portsmouth by colonial governor John Wentworth. Exeter became New Hampshire's capital for 14 years, and the provincial records were brought there from Portsmouth. |
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| 16 | Founding Families of Ile d Orleans Île d'Orléans, nestled in the Saint Lawrence River near Quebec City, is an island steeped in history and cultural importance. Before European arrival, the indigenous Huron named it Minigo, or "enchanted island." French explorer Jacques Cartier was the first European to visit in 1535, originally naming it Île de Bascuz for its abundance of wild grapes. It was later renamed Île d'Orléans, honoring the Duke of Orléans, the second son of King Francis I of France. As one of the earliest areas in New France to undergo colonization, the Île d'Orléans Seigneury was established in 1636. This seigneury system allowed a seigneur (lord) to distribute land to settlers, known as habitants, who farmed and paid dues. The island's fertile soil and strategic position made it a crucial site for the French. By the 17th century, it had a growing French population and significant livestock. Several parishes, including Sainte-Famille, Saint-Pierre, Saint-François, and Saint-Jean, were established, with records dating back to 1678. The 18th century saw Île d'Orléans become a strategic point for British operations against Quebec City during the Seven Years' War. |
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| 17 | Founding Families of Ipswich Ipswich, Massachusetts, is a town renowned for its historical and cultural heritage. Initially home to Indian tribes who named the area Agawam, it was established in 1634 by John Winthrop Jr. and a group of English settlers. Reflecting their roots, they named the town after Ipswich in England and officially incorporated it on August 4, 1634. Ipswich stands out for its exceptional collection of early 17th-century homes. With fifty-eight houses built before 1725, it boasts the largest number of well-preserved 17th and 18th-century houses in the United States. This distinction also makes Ipswich the American town with the highest number of historic houses, showcasing its rich architectural legacy. |
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| 18 |  | Founding Families of Kittery & The Berwicks While I was born in New Hampshire and have lived almost all of my adult in New Hampshire, I grew up just over the border, in Berwick, Maine. This is Jim and I met and dated throughout high school (Noble High School) and it's where we were later married at Our Lady of Peace. Berwick is where my grandparents purchased a farm after he was wounded in WWII and received a medical discharge from the Marines, and it is where they raised their nine children. It is where most of my family still lives and it is where Jim's parents live. For all these reasons, I was beyond excited to find that our ancestral roots go back to the very beginning of the European settlement of Berwick. The branches run through both my maternal and paternal lines and I will use this collection to provide all my research. |
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| 19 | Founding Families of New France New France, or Nouvelle-France in French, was an extensive area in North America colonized by France. It began with Jacques Cartier's exploration of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence in 1534 and ended in 1763 when it was ceded to Great Britain and Spain under the Treaty of Paris. The territory stretched from Newfoundland to the Rocky Mountains and from Hudson Bay to the Gulf of Mexico, including the Great Lakes and the Mississippi Valley. The most developed part of New France was Canada, divided into Québec, Trois-Rivières, and Montreal districts. The French colonization was driven by trade (notably fur), religious missions, and the ambition to expand France's influence. The French Crown significantly shaped New France's development, particularly in 1663 when King Louis XIV integrated it into the royal domain and established the French West India Company. New France operated under the seigneurial system, where settlers farmed land granted by a seigneur and paid dues. Despite its vast territory, New France's population was sparse compared to English colonies, partly due to limited economic reasons for French peasants to emigrate and the French Crown's focus on other colonies. Culturally, New France was predominantly French-speaking and Catholic, maintaining its civil code and religious practices even after British conquest. This heritage strongly influenced the culture of Quebec, blending European traditions with North American elements and emphasizing the preservation of the French language and identity. |
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| 20 | Founding Families of Newbury |
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| 21 | Founding Families of Portland |
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| 22 | Founding Families of Portsmouth |
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| 23 | Founding Families of Rochester |
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| 24 |  | Founding Families of Salem Salem, Massachusetts, in the 1600s, was a period marked by its founding, development, and the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Established in 1626 by a group of fishermen from Cape Ann led by Roger Conant, Salem is one of the most significant early settlements in New England. Originally named Naumkeag, it was soon renamed Salem, derived from the Hebrew word for peace. In 1628, a group led by John Endecott arrived, sent by the Massachusetts Bay Company, which significantly boosted the settlement's growth. Endecott, often considered the first governor of Massachusetts, played a crucial role in the early development of Salem. The town quickly became an important port and trading center, known for its fishing, shipbuilding, and commerce. The Puritan influence was strong in Salem, shaping much of its society and governance. The community was deeply religious, with strict adherence to Puritan beliefs and practices. This religious fervor, combined with social tensions, economic stresses, and fears of the unknown, set the stage for the Salem Witch Trials in 1692. By the end of the 1600s, Salem had begun to move past the Witch Trials. It continued to grow as a significant seaport, laying the foundation for its evolution into a major American city. The legacy of this era, particularly the Witch Trials, remains a critical part of Salem's identity and continues to attract interest and study. |
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| 25 | Founding Families of Salisbury & Amesbury |
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| 26 | Founding Families of Watertown |
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| 27 |  | Founding Families of Wells |
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| 28 |  | Founding Families of Weymouth Weymouth, Massachusetts, originally known as Wessagusset Colony, is the second oldest town in the Commonwealth. The recorded history of Weymouth begins in 1622, not long after the Pilgrims landed in Plymouth. The Wessagusset Colony was a short-lived English trading colony in New England located in Weymouth, Massachusetts. It was settled in August 1622 by between 50 and 60 colonists who were ill-prepared for colonial life. The colony was established by Thomas Weston, a London merchant who had helped finance the Pilgrims and the Mayflower. Weston believed there was potential for a lucrative business based on trade with the New World. However, the colonists were not well-prepared for the challenges of colonial life, and the colony was settled without adequate provisions. Tensions built throughout the winter between the settlers and the local Native American tribes, leading to instances of theft and hostility. One colonist fled to Plymouth to warn of an imminent attack, leading to a violent confrontation in which several Native Americans were killed. The Wessagusset Colony disbanded after this violent incident. Many of the survivors returned to England, others joined Plymouth, and a few sailed up the coast to settle in Maine. In 1635, 21 new families arrived from Weymouth, England, and the town was renamed Weymouth. The settlers lived primarily on fishing and farming, and they also harvested lumber from the forests and salt and thatch from its salt marshes. The Plymouth Council for New England gave Robert Gorges a patent for a settlement covering 300 square miles. This settlement was intended to be a spiritual and civic capital of the New England colonies. The town slowly grew, and by 1633 it was described as a small village with a spacious harbor for shipping, good ground for farming, and a good store of fish and swine. In the 1630s, Wessagusset became recognized as part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The town continued to grow and develop, with its population expanding rapidly in the post-World War II era. Today, Weymouth is a thriving city that retains its historical charm while offering modern amenities and services. |
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| 29 | Founding Families of York |
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| 30 |  | Gateway Ancestors |
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| 31 |  | Great Migration The "Great Migration," as defined by the New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS), encompasses the English Puritan migration to New England from 1620 to 1640. This movement primarily involved English Puritans who relocated in family units, driven by a quest for religious freedom and the aspiration to establish a Puritan commonwealth. These migrants originated from various regions of England and settled in areas that now form Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, including the Plymouth Colony and the Massachusetts Bay Colony. An individual's inclusion in the Great Migration Study Project requires evidence of migration to New England within the specified period of 1620 to 1640. The project's objective is to compile biographical and genealogical profiles of all immigrants who arrived in New England during these two decades. The NEHGS has produced extensive volumes and directories, providing details about the lives of these immigrants. This collection presents research on many ancestors who were part of this significant historical migration. You may be shocked by how many there are. Even I was at first. However, most of these Great Migration ancestors are my 9th and 10th great-grandparents, and in some cases 11th and 12th, and with the number of great-grandparents doubling with each generation, the possibilities quickly become immense. We have a total of 1024 sets of 9th great-grandparents and 2048 sets of 10th great-grandparents. This makes finding so many Great Migration ancestors more understandable. |
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| 32 |  | Innkeepers & Tavern Owning Ancestors In colonial America, taverns, public houses, and inns were more than mere establishments for lodging and refreshment; they were vital social and economic centers that played a significant role in the fabric of early American society. The ancestors who owned and operated these venues were key figures in their communities, providing essential services and facilitating important social interactions. As the social hubs of their communities, these establishments offered a space for diverse groups - from local farmers to traveling merchants - to gather, exchange news, and engage in lively debates. They were the communal living rooms of the era, where relationships were formed and strengthened. In an age before widespread literacy and mass communication, taverns and inns served as crucial channels for the dissemination of news and information, including political and economic developments. Economically, taverns and public houses were cornerstones of colonial commerce. They functioned not only as places of rest and sustenance for travelers but also as venues for business transactions and trade negotiations. Politically, they played an understated yet critical role. In the turbulent times leading up to the American Revolution, these establishments often became hotbeds of political discussion and activity, laying the groundwork for the democratic ideals that would shape the nation. |
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| 33 |  | King's Daughters: Filles du Roi (1663-1673) The Filles du Roi, or the King's Daughters, were a group of courageous young women whose journey from France to New France (present-day Canada) between 1663 and 1673 played a pivotal role in the development of early North American society. My husband and I are honored to trace our lineage back to at least 60 of these remarkable women combined, whose enduring legacy is woven into the fabric of our family history. Sponsored by King Louis XIV, the Filles du Roi program was a strategic initiative to bolster the population of New France. Approximately 800 young women, primarily aged between 12 and 25, were selected for this program. Their mission was to encourage settlement and family formation in the colony, thereby promoting the growth of the French population in the New World. Prior to their departure, many of these women were required to obtain a letter of reference from their parish priest, affirming their character and suitability for this important undertaking. The recruitment process was concentrated in cities like Paris and Rouen, with each woman's passage and necessities funded at a cost of about 100 livres. Upon arrival in New France, the Filles du Roi were initially cared for by nuns. Given the significant gender imbalance in the colony, these women had a considerable degree of choice in selecting a spouse. To support their new beginnings, King Louis XIV provided dowries, usually comprising clothing and household supplies, to each woman. The Filles du Roi had a profound impact on the demographic landscape of Nouvelle-France. Their arrival and subsequent marriages significantly contributed to the population growth of the colony. In fact, by 1671, the number of births in Nouvelle-France had increased notably, a testament to their vital role in the expansion of the French presence in North America. Today, the descendants of the Filles du Roi are estimated to number in the millions across North America, a reflection of their significant and lasting influence. Despite facing numerous challenges, including the risks associated with the long ocean voyage and adapting to the demanding conditions of life in a new land, the Filles du Roi displayed remarkable resilience and determination. Their contribution to the establishment and growth of a French community in North America is a vital part of our history. This section is dedicated to celebrating the lives, challenges, and achievements of these extraordinary women. As we delve into their stories, we not only honor their memory but also recognize the profound impact they have had on our family and the broader narrative of New France. |
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| 34 |  | Knights and Nobility Royals are/were the monarchs and their immediate family. See the following Wiki article re: royalty: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_family Nobles are/were the highest social class and generally held land or an office in exchange for allegiance and services to a monarch or higher-ranking nobleman. See the following Wiki article re: nobility: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nobility Nobility and Knights: Understanding Their Roles and Distinctions Nobility is a broad social class that includes individuals holding titles, typically hereditary but sometimes granted by a monarch. Positioned immediately below royalty, this class encompasses ranks such as dukes, earls, and counts in the British system. While it's rare for commoners to ascend into nobility, history has seen such occurrences due to factors like wealth, military prowess, or royal favor. Knights represent a distinct class within the nobility. They were essentially professional cavalrymen, often of high birth, who achieved their privileged military status after undergoing rigorous training as a page and squire. The journey to knighthood involved several stages: As a Page: A young boy would start learning about horses, hunting, and weaponry. Becoming a Squire: Around age 14, showing potential, he would assist a full knight, honing his skills with weapons and armor. Knighthood: Between ages 18 and 21, he could be knighted by a lord or another knight, typically in an elaborate initiation ceremony. Knights were renowned as the most-feared and best-protected warriors on medieval battlefields. They were expected to uphold the chivalric traditions of bravery, strength, skill in battle, respect for women, defense of the weak and poor, and generosity. Off the battlefield, knights were known for their chivalry, often wealthy and of high status. Their roles extended to guarding a baron and his castle, fighting in wars for their sovereign and the Church, and participating in medieval tournaments. |
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| 35 |  | Mayflower Ancestors Uncovering our connections to the Mayflower ancestors has been a journey of profound significance. This exploration into our family's past has not only linked us to a crucial chapter in American history but has also provided a deeper understanding of our roots and heritage. The realization that our lineage traces back to those early settlers who braved the unknown for a chance at religious freedom and a new life is both humbling and inspiring. It's a reminder of the resilience and courage that run in our family's veins, traits passed down through generations. This collection of research is more than a compilation of names and dates; it's a tribute to the enduring spirit of our ancestors, whose decisions and sacrifices have shaped the course of our family's story. Their legacy is a cherished part of our identity, offering a sense of belonging and continuity that enriches our understanding of who we are and where we come from. |
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| 36 |  | Murderous & Murdered Ancestors Uncovering the stories of our ancestors sometimes reveals a tapestry of diverse and sometimes startling narratives. Among these, we occasionally encounter tales that are both shocking and disturbing, shedding light on the darker aspects of our family's past. These stories, which include instances of ancestors who were victims of murder or, conversely, those who perpetrated such acts, offer a stark reminder of the complex and often challenging lives led by those who came before us. |
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| 37 | Notable Ancestors |
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| 38 |  | Oyster River Massacre The Oyster River Massacre, also known as the Raid on Oyster River, was a harrowing event that occurred on July 18, 1694, in present-day Durham, New Hampshire, amidst the turmoil of King William's War. This brutal attack was carried out by approximately 250 Abenaki Indians, led by the French soldier Claude-Sébastien de Villieu. The English settlements situated on both sides of the Oyster River were the targets of this devastating raid. The Abenaki, under de Villieu's command, inflicted severe losses, resulting in the death or capture of around 100 settlers. Additionally, the raid saw the destruction of five garrison houses along with numerous other homes in the area. Tragically, many of our ancestors were among those who lost their lives or were taken captive during this assault. This massacre was a significant episode in the wider conflict between English settlers and Native Americans, a situation further complicated by French involvement. It stands as one of the most catastrophic raids in New Hampshire's history during King William's War, leaving a lasting impact on the region and its inhabitants. |
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| 39 |  | Religious Connections |
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| 40 | Revolutionary War |
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| 41 |  | Royal Connections When you find a Gateway Ancestor in your family tree, it is almost impossible not to go down a rabbit hole of ancestry leading to connections with countless ancestors of the royal and noble classes. These lines have been extensively researched and documented by historians, so it is really just a matter of following the line. I've spent countless hours engrossed in the stories these royal lines have uncovered. In this album, I will link to ancestors who were members of the Royal class. Royalty refers to the ruling monarch and their immediate family. This includes kings, queens, princes, and princesses. The monarch is typically the highest authority in the land and has the power to grant titles of nobility. Keep in mind that it is not necessarily unusual to be descended from royalty. After all, many of these connections go back to my 25th great grandparents and beyond. Theoretically, we have 67,108,864 sets of 25th great grandparents (In reality, due to a phenomenon known as pedigree collapse, where ancestors appear in the family tree multiple times in different generations due to intermarriage within a community, the actual number of unique 25th great-grandparents a person has is likely to be much lower). With this many, it might be more unusual NOT to descend from royalty. However, what makes our ancestry so unique is that we can TRACE it that far back, person to person to person. Since my fascination with our ancestry lies in my curiosity about the stories of the individual people, this is beyond compelling to me. It is like getting lost in a series of medieval novels in which I have an actual connection to the characters. It brings history to life. |
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| 42 |  | The Dover Combination The Dover Combination, signed in 1640, was an important agreement in the early colonial history of America. It was signed by the settlers of Dover, which is now in New Hampshire. |
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| 43 |  | The Exeter Combination (1639) Another defining moment in our family history and the early development of New England was the Exeter Combination. This historic document, crafted by John Wheelwright and signed by 35 freemen, including our ancestors William Wentworth, Darby Field, and Edmund Littlefield, as signers on July 4, 1639, marks a significant step in the journey towards self-governance in the New World. William Wentworth, known as Elder William Wentworth, was an early settler of Exeter, demonstrating his commitment to the community through his active participation in its governance. Darby Field, celebrated for his adventurous spirit and as the first European to climb Mount Washington, also left his mark as one of the signatories. Edmund Littlefield, another signer, later became a prominent figure in Wells, Maine, known as "The Father of Wells," for his substantial contributions to the community. While not signatories of the Exeter Combination, Reverend Samuel Dudley and Edward Gilman Jr. were also instrumental in the early history of Exeter. Reverend Samuel Dudley, arriving in New England in 1630, served as Exeter's minister for over three decades from 1650, providing much-needed spiritual leadership to this fledgling community. His influence extended beyond the pulpit, shaping the moral and social fabric of Exeter. Edward Gilman Jr., another direct ancestor, played a pivotal role in the town's economic development. As an early settler, he was granted land and the right to establish Exeter's first sawmill, a cornerstone in the town's growth and prosperity. The Exeter Combination, housed in the Exeter Historical Society, is not just a treasure of the town's heritage but a significant artifact in American history. It stands as a testament to the early attempts at self-governance in the New World and the spirit of resilience and community that characterized our ancestors. In exploring the stories of these early settlers, we gain a deeper understanding of their contributions to the establishment and growth of Exeter. Their roles, whether as signatories of the Exeter Combination or as key figures in the town's founding, reflect a shared commitment to building a thriving community in the face of new and challenging frontiers. |
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| 44 | Living At least one living or private individual is linked to this item - Details withheld. |
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| 45 | WWI |
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| 46 | WWII |
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