Groton, Middlesex, Massachusetts History during the Revolutionary War
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Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR
With an Appendix
Samuel Abbott Green
'Tis but a part we see and not the whole.
Pope's Essay on Man.
Groton, Massachusetts, 1900.
University Press;
John Wilson & Son, Cambridge, Mass.
U.S.A.
To The Memory of The Groton Minute-Men, Who Rallied
On the Common and Marched to the Scenes of Conflict,
On the Memorable Nineteenth of April, This Work Is
Inscribed.
GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION
In this collection of papers I purpose to print the military rolls
of Groton Companies that served at different times during the Revo-
lution, together with such other facts and documents as relate to the
subject. These various rolls, etc., for the most part are preserved
among the Revolutionary papers of the Massachusetts Archives at the
State House.
In the volumes of "Massachusetts Soldiers and Sailors of the Revo-
lutionary War," now in course of publication by the Commonwealth,
the names of the men and officers from the whole State are given,
but they are arranged alphabetically and not by towns. A reference
to that work will furnish much additional information, as after the
various names, there is found a short account of each man's service.
Some of the papers and documents, here printed, are taken from news-
papers and other publications, not easily accessible to the general
reader, but in every case, it is stated where the original may be
seen. Many of them have appeared in the "Groton Historical Series."
THE NINETEENTH OF APRIL.
To the people of Massachusetts, the 19th of April is fraught with
great events and full of stirring associations.
On that day in 1689, Sir Edmund Andros, Governor of New England,
representing here, the power of Great Britian, was consigned by an
enraged people, as a prisoner
p.2 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
April 19, 1775 - First American Blood Shed.
to the Castle in Boston Harbor. On that day in 1775, British troops
fired on the yeomanry of Massachusetts, and the first blood in the
war for independence was then shed.
On that day in 1861, a Middlesex County Regiment, rushing to the
defence of our National Captital, was attacked by an armed mob in
the streets of Baltimore, Maryland, where four soldiers were killed
and more than thirty were wounded. These several dates, in differ-
ent centuries, are separated by an interval of just eighty-six years,
which seems to represent the historic cycle of Middlesex County and
of Massachusetts.
THE MINUTE-MEN.
In the pursuit of game and other wild animals, the early settlers
of Massachusetts became familiar with the use of powder, ball and
musket, and even the boys were skilled marksmen. As early as the
Spring of 1645, the General Court ordered that all youths between
the ages of ten and sixteen years of age, should be instructed by
competent soldiers in the exercise of arms, such as small guns,
half pikes, and bows and arrows, provided their parents were will-
ing.
The frequent attacks of the Indians kept the men schooled in the
arts of war, and the trials of one campaign fitted them for the
duties of the next. Many of the officers who served during the
Revolution, received the rudiments of their military education
in the French and Indian War; and the experience there gained,
stood them in good stead.
The rank and file were made up of brave men, though undisciplined,
who from their sires had inherited a lover of liberty. For a period
of years the leaders had been preparing, consciously or unconsciously
for a struggle that was soon to begin.
Great events were hastening public opinion toward the final step.
The leaders of the American Revolution showed much wisdom in the
strict attention paid to the preparatory details of their work;
and every move on the board was made with
p.3 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
THE MINUTE MEN.
reference to something that was to follow. The final success of the
military struggle was due as much to their foresight and sagacity in
this respect, as to the deep feeling of the people. The alarm at
Lexington, Massachusetts, on the memorable 19th of April, aroused al-
most simultaneously, the whole country for miles around, so carefully
had the region in the neighborhood been allotted to special messen-
gers, whose duty was arranged beforehand for such a purpose. On the
side the Patriots, the skirmishes of that day were fought by compan-
ies made up largely of Minute-Men, organized on recommendation of the
First Provincial Congress of Massachusetts, in the Resolve passed at
Cambridge, Massachusetts, on October 6, 1774.
MINUTEMEN.
At that time, it was recommended to the field officers of the various
militia regiments, that they should enlist at least one-quarter of
their respective commands, and form them into companies to be held
in readiness, at the shortest notice from the Committee of Safety,
to march to the place of rendezvous. Such soldiers soon became known
as "Minutemen"; and at the first signal of hostilities, they were on
hand, armed and equipped, ready for any emergency that they might be
called upon to meet. At this critical period, in many ways, they
proved to be of great help to the popular cause.
THE ALARM LISTS.
The existence of such a body of drilled men seems to have been
prompted by the practice of nearly twenty years before, during the
French and Indian War, when there were bands of men, known as "The
Alarm Lists," who were to be ready for military service at a minute's
warning.
THE MINUTE-MEN.
And, in their turn, these Alarm Lists followed the precedent set by
the Suffolk and Middlesex regiments, which, at the beginning of King
Philip's War were ordered by the General Court to "be ready to march
on a moment's warning." Even before this time, as early as August
12, 1645, in anticipation of trouble with the Indians, it was ordered
that thirty men out of every hundred in the militia should be ready
"at halfe an hour's warning" for any service that they might be call-
ed upon to perform by their commanding officers.
GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
p.4 These various instances all contain the germ of the sytem. Thus it is
seen that, for the period of a hundred and thirty years before the
Revolution, the minute-man was a prime factor in both the Colonial
and the Provincial militia.
ADVANCE OF THE BRITISH TROOPS.
The news of the advance of the British troops on Lexington, Massa-
chusetts and Concord reached the village of Groton, Massachusetts
early in the morning of the nineteenth of April, when word was sent
at once to all parts of the town, calling on the minute-men to rally
on Groton's Common, in front of the Meeting-house. The alarm,
probably, was a continuation of the one sent from Charlestown,
Massachusetts, just before midnight, and reached Groton soon after
sunrise. There is some reason to think that this intelligence was
expected at that particular time, and that messengers were ready to
carry it to the out-lying homes of the farmers.
APRIL 17TH.
COLONEL OLIVER PRESCOTT.
On April 17th, it was voted by the Committees of Safety and of
Supplies, that the four six-pounder guns should be transported from
Concord, Massachusetts to Groton, Massachusetts and put under the
care of Colonel Oliver Prescott;
INSERT.
SOURCE: THE PRESCOTT MEMORIAL
p.57
COLONEL WILLIAM PRESCOTT OF BUNKER HILL FAME, AND COLONEL OLIVER PRESCOTT.
Col. William Prescott, born Feb. 20, 1726, m. 1756/7, Abigail Hale of Sutton, Mass.,
born in 1733. He settled in that part of Groton, Mass., which was called the Gore, and
which is now included within the town of Pepperell, Mass.
Dr. Oliver Prescott b. April 27, 1731, m. February, 1756, Lydia, a daughter of
David & Abigail Baldwin, Esq., of Sudbury, Mass., b. Oct. 15, 1735. Ten children.
He graduated at Harvard College 1750, and was distinguished at college for his liter-
ary attainments and correct deportment. He studied with Dr. Roby of Sudbury who had
been educated in Europe, and a dicipple of the reknowned Boer-haave and was an eminent
physician. He settled in Groton, Mass., his native town and for many years was extensive-
ly patronized, not only by that, but by the neighboring towns. It is said by his bio-
grapher that he had a careful and trusty horse on whom he would frequently sleep when
deprived of his rest in bed. His distinguished professional acquirements; his prompt
and unremitted attention to the sick; his tender and pleasant demeanor while treating
them; his moderate charges and forbearances toward the poor, together with with the gen-
eral success which attended his practice, operated to render him for nearly 50 years
one of the most eminent and useful physicians in the Commonwealth. He was one of the
original members of the Massachusetts Medical Society at its incorporation in 1781 and
an honorary member of sundry medical societies. He was President of the Middlesex Medi-
cal Society during the whole period of its existence.
footnotes:
Pepperell was then a frontier town bordering upon Hollis, in New Hampshire. In fact, the
Indians long continued to be his neighbors, so that there were periods when it was con-
sidered unsafe to go into the fields, without their rifles. Colonel Prescott held his
lands as his son, the Hon. William Prescott, late of Boston, and his grandson, William
Hickling Prescott, the historian, continued to hold them, the original house under the
original Indian title. The house is still standing. The house is still held under the
same original title, by William G. Prescott, eldest son of the historian.
Col. William Prescott was a lieutenant in the Provincial troops which were sent to re-
move the neutral French from Nova Scotia in 1755. After his return he married Abigail
Hale and was promoted to the office of Captain. In 1774, he was appointed Colonel of
a regiment of Minute Men, enrolled in Pepperell, Mass., and vicinity. On receiving
intelligence of the British Regulars attack at Lexington, Mass., on the memorable 19th
of April, 1775, Col. William Prescott immediately gave order for the company in Pepper-
ell and the company in Hollis, to march to Groton, Mass., and thence to the scene of
action, but arriving there before the Groton companies were ready, they, after a short
halt, proceeded on their way in advance of the Groton companies. Colonel Prescott hasten-
ed on, with as many of his regiment as he could collect, to Concord, Mass. and thence to
Cambridge, Mass., but did not overtake the retreating British troops. He and most of his
men enlisted for eight months, the period of the first enlistment.
BUNKER HILL.
footnotes continued.
On the 16th of June l775 Gen. Artemus Ward the commander-in-chief issued an
order for placing three Massachusetts regiments (Col. Prescott's, Col. Frye's
and Col. Bridge's) and one hundred and twenty men from a Connecticut regiment under the
brace Captain Knowlton, about one thousand in all, under the command of Col. Prescott,
directing him to proceed to Bunker Hill and there erect a fortification.
The detachment started from Cambridge Common at dusk, led by Col. Prescott who proceeded
silently to Bunker Hill, where the troops at about 11 o'clock commenced building the in-
trenchments as laid out by Col. Gridley and were not discovered until daylight next morn-
ing, June l7th, l775. The Americans, althoug hraw troops, fought with the bavery and obst-
inacy of veterans, until their ammunition was exhausted. Col. Prescott was always conf-
ident that he could have maintained his position, even with the handful of men under him,
if he had been supplied with ammunition. Colonel Prescott told General Ward, the commander-
in-chief, that he would retake the place that night or perish in the attempt, if Ward would
give him three regiments, with bayonets and sufficient ammunition. But from prudential reasons,
it was declined." Colonel Prescott continued in the service until the end of 1776. He was
stationed at Governor's Island, New York, until the Americans were obliged to retire from the
city. In the autumn of 1777, he went as a volunteer, to
assist in the capture of the army under General Burgoyne, which was his last military
service. He was elected a member of the Provincial Congress at Salem.
p.59 THE PRESCOTT MEMORIAL.
footnotes.
After his retirement from the army he served the town as Town Clerk, Selectman, Repre-
sentative to the General Court of Massachusetts for three years and was an acting Magi-
strate for the remainder of his life. When Shays' rebellion broke out, he hastened to
Concord and assisted in protecting the Courts of Justice and of preserving law and order.
In his person, Col. William Prescott was tall, with a large and muscular frame, but not
corpulant, his features strong and indicative of intelligence. He was courteous and
benevolent, and possessed a strong mind. Not having had the advantages of an early edu-
cation, he was most emphatically a self-made man. He died October 13, 1795, aged 79
years, 8 months - and was buried with military honors suitable to his rank, his life
and his character. He fell at a ripe old age, full of honors and highly esteemed and
respected. His widow, Abigail died October 21, 1821 aged 88 years.*
*footnote: Dr. Oliver Prescott, Jr., who was a nephew of Colonel William Prescott, and
intimate in his family, and who was a young man at the time of the Revolution, had fre-
quently heard his uncle, the colonel, relate a variety of anecdotes and incidents in his
experiences while in the army. He subsequently wrote sketches of the three brothers, to
wit, his father, Doctor Oliver Prescott, Sr., and his uncles, Colonel William Prescott
and Judge James Prescott, for his own use and amusement and that of his family, in which
he had recorded many interesting anecdotes and incidents in their lives and experiences,
not hitherto published, all of which he saw or heard them relate. These sketches are now
in the possession of his daughter, Miss Harriet Prescott of Cambridge, Mass., from which
she has very kindly permitted the following extracts to be selected:
Dr. Oliver Prescott, Jr. was a nephew of Colonel William Prescott and
intimate in his family. He was a young man at the time of the
Revolution and had frequently heard his uncle, the Colonel, relate a
variety of anecdotes and incidents in his experience while in the army.
Oliver subsequently wrote sketches of the three brothers, to wit, his
father, Dr. Oliver Prescott, Sr., and his uncles, Colonel William
Prescott and Judge James Prescott. He wrote for his own amusement and
that of the family, in which he had recorded many interesting anecdotes
and incidents in their lives and experiences not hitherto published,
all of which he saw or heard them relate. These sketches are now in
the posession of his daughter, Miss Harriet Prescott of Cambridge, Mass., (b.
April 7, 1795; died unm) from which she kindly permitted the
following extracts to be selected. (1870)
Excerpt from Dr. Oliver Prescott's Anecdotes:
"The breast work or redoubt (at Bunker Hill) was only constructed of such
earth as the party had thrown up in the middle of the night and
was not more than breast high to a man of medium height. Colonel
Prescott being a very tall man, six feet and two or three inches in
height, his head and shoulders and a considerable portion of his body
must have been exposed during the whole engagement. He wore a three
cornered cocked hat and a ban-yan (or calico coat) His clothing was
repeatedly spattered with the blood and the brains of the killed and
wounded. Colonel Prescott did not leave the redoubt until many of the
enemy had taken possession of it. They made numerous attempts to pierce his
body with their bayonets, all of which he dexterously parried with his sword,
and he escaped without a wound. The writer,
(Dr. Oliver Prescott, Jr) saw the waistcoat and the ban-van coat after
the engagement, and they had several holes pierced by the bayonets of
the British in their attempts at his life."
The following anecdote as related by Colonel William Prescott to Oliver
is as follows:
"The command of the detachment sent to Bunker Hill has by some writers been state to have
been given to General Putnam, but it appears that General Putnam was not in the redoubt
during any part of the action. He came into the intrenchment that morning some time be-
fore the action commenced and ordered a division of the men to carry away the intrenching
tools from the works that they might not be taken by the enemy, and at the same time he
engaged to send these men back together with a reinforcement. But the men did not return
nor was a reinforcement sent. Colonel Prescott met General Putnam after the action, near
Charlestown Neck and inquired the cause of his failing to fulfill his engagement. General
Putnam replied, 'I could not make the dogs go' Colonel Prescott the stated 'If you had
said to them, 'Come,' you would have found men enough.' This statement (writes Dr.
Oliver Prescott, Jr.), I received from Colonel Prescott himself, who never forgave Putnam
for this breach of promise. Dr. Oliver Prescott states that several other Officers who
were in that action gave the same account of Putnam's conduct on that day."
"The breast work, or redoubt, was only constructed of such earth as the party had thrown
up after the middle of the night and was not more than breast high to a man of medium
height. Colonel Prescott, being a very tall man, six feet and two or three inches in
height, his head and shoulders and a considerable portion of his body must have been ex-
posed during the whole engagement. He wore a three-cornered cocked hat and a ban-yun, or
calico coat. His clothing wa repeatedly spattered with the blood of the killed and wound-
ed. Colonel Prescott did not leave the redoubt until many of the enemy had taken poss-
ession of it. They made numerous attempts to pierce his body with their bayonets, all of
which he dexterously parried with his sword, and he escaped without a wound.
The writer, Dr. Oliver Prescott, Jr., saw the waistcoat and the banyan coat after the
engagement, and they had several holes pierced by the bayonets of the British, in their
attempts to take his life." "On the morning of the battle, Gage, the British commander,
viewed the American works from an elevated position in Boston (Copp's Hill) and called
upon the Tory refugees to see if they knew the commanding officer. Abijah Willard, of
Lancaster, a mandamus counsellor, whose wife was a sister of Colonel Prescott, having
viewed the works with a glass, informed Gage that he knew the commander well, and 'tis
my brother-in-law, Prescott' Gage then asked, 'Will he fight?' 'Yes' replied Willard
"that man will fight hell, and if his men are like him, you will have bloody work today."
"The following anecdote the writer had from Colonel Prescott himself: "While stationed
with his regiment near New York in 1776, the out guards brought in a British deserter.
As they approached the camp, the deserter observed to the guards, 'that officer yonder
is Colonel Prescott.' The guard informed Col. Prescott of the fact. 'How come you to
know me?' inquired Colonel Prescott? 'I saw you at Bunker Hill,' replied the soldier,
'and recollected you immediately.' 'Why did you not kill me at the time?' asked Col.
Prescott. 'I tried my best,' said the soldier, 'I took deliberate aim at you, more than
once, when I thought it impossible for you to escape. 'I also pushed at you several times
with my bayonet when you were as near as I could have wished, and after several of us
had taken possession of your works.' 'You are a brave fellow,' replied Colonel Pres-
cott, 'come into my tent and I will treat you.'
"While on the retreat from the scene of conflict, Col. Prescott came to a house on
Charlestown street, near the 'neck,' where there were three or four men who had just
prepared a bowl of punch, and which they presented to Col. Prescott, before having
tasted it. This, to a man suffering with fatigue and parched with thirst, was a most
gratifying and acceptable offering. Col. Prescott took the bowl, but before he had time
to partake of its contents, a cannon ball passed through the house, upon which the men
immediately fled, leaving Colonel Prescott to drain the bowl by himself, and at his
leisure."
Dr. Oliver Prescott further relates that Colonel Prescott was a true patriot. As a
neighbor, he was kind, benevolent and a peacemaker, in his town, and he was universally
loved and respected.
p.60
THE PRESCOTT MEMORIAL.
DR. OLIVER PRESCOTT
(continued)
Dr. Oliver Prescott took an early and decided part in the American Revolution by entering
warmly into those measures which were necessary to vindicate our national rights, and by
assisting cheerfully and largely in their defence. He received many important appoint-
ments. In the militia, he was appointed by the King a Major, then Lieutenant Colonel and
then Colonel. In 1776 he was appointed a Brigadier General for Middlesex County by the
Executive Council of Massachusetts Bay; he also was in the same year chosen a member of
the Board of War. In 1777 he was elected a member of the Supreme Executive Council; and
in 1778 he was appointed the 3rd Major General of the militia throughout the Commonwealth.
He was elected Town Clerk of Groton, Massachusetts from 1765 to 1777, inclusive, (13
years). Upon the death of John Winthrop, LL.D., in 1779, he, Dr. Oliver Prescott, was
appointed his successor in the office of Judge of Probate, etc. for the county of Middle-
sex, which office he retained until his death.
In 1781 he was appointed 2nd Major General of the militia, but soon tendered his resigna-
tion by reason of other important duties. In 1781, Dr. Prescott received from the govern-
ment a commission to "cause to be arrested and committed to jail, any person whom he
should deem the safety of the Commonwealth required to be restrained of his personal
liberty, or whose enlargement within the Commonwealth was dangerous thereto."*
*footnote: On the 3d of January, 1775, he with his brother, James Prescott and Jonathan
and Amos Lawrence, and eleven others, were appointed a committee to see that the resolves
of the Continental Congress relative to the "Test Oath," so called, "be faithfully carried
into effect."
p.60 cont'd.
A TRUSTEE OF THE GROTON ACADEMY.
Dr. Prescott was incorporated a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in
1780. Also, one of the Trustees of Groton Academy, and the first President of the Board.
He was in stature a full six feet in height, somewhat corpulent, and possessed and ever
practiced a peculiar suavity and politeness of manners, and a gentlemanly deportment,
which strongly endeared him to the people, always commanding esteem and respect.
Dr. Prescott was not only respected for the above qualities, but the whole was sweetened
by a uniform Christian life and true devotion to the cause of Christianity, and the social
virtues in which he and his wife walked together and adorned their profession by
a well ordered life and godly conversation. He possessed uncommon powers and versatility
of mind, showing himself in all matters of difficulty, at once competent to its develop-
ment and elucidation by which he was enabled to dispatch business with surprising rapidity.
Dr. Oliver Prescott ended a well spent and useful life on the 17th of November, 1804, aged 75
years and nearly 9 months; caused by the pectoral dropsy, the same disease that terminated
the existence of his two brothers, the Honorable James Prescott and Colonel
William Prescott. Dr. Prescott's wife had died previously on the 27th of September,
1798, aged 63 years.
Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth - The full book, The
Prescott Memorial, will be sent to you on request to me
personally, - Janice Farnsworth - farns10th@aol.com
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS IN THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
-continued-
On April 17th it was voted by the Committees of Safety and of Supplies,
that the four six pounders should be transported from Concord, Mass., to
Groton, Mass., and put under the care of Colonel Oliver Prescott; and on
the next day it was also voted that certain ammunition, as well as a
large number of tents and two medicine chests, shoud be sent to Groton
for safe-keeping. As open hostilities began so soon afterward, there was
probably no time to make the removal. The community was much agitated,
and the men were thoroughly aroused. The air was full of rumors, and
one knew their source. They seemed to come by "grape-vine telegraph," -
as the expression was in the Union Army during the Civil War. -
Upon the recommendation of the Provincial Congress, two companies of
Minute-men had been enlisted at Groton. According to a printed sermon
preached before them on February 21, 1775, by Reverend Samuel Webster of
Temple, New Hampshire, their officers at that time had been already
chosen, and while there had been "heats" - as the minister expressed it,
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
p.5 THE ADVANCE OF THE BRITISH TROOPS.
THE DIARY OF AMOS FARNSWORTH
"in other towns, over the choice of officers, there had been none at
Groton. Unfortunately, at a later period, "heats," or contentions, did
break out in one of these companies, as appears from an entry in the
journal of Amos Farnsworth, on April 26, 1775.
INSERT: DIARY OF AMOS FARNSWORTH
Subject: Major FARNSWORTH, Amos Jr.
His Journal of the Revolutionary War
Source: Matthias Farnsworth and His Descendants in America
A Monograph by Claudius Buchanan Farnsworth
Published privately by the author 1891
Journal of Amos Farnsworth, Jr.
April 1775
"We marched and came there (to Concord) where some had been killed.
Pulled on and came to Lexington, where much hurt was done to the
houses by breaking glass and burning of many houses, but they were
forced to retreat though they were more numerous than we. And I saw
many dead Regulars by the way. Went into a house where the blood was
half over shoes..
Thursday April 20, 1775
Came to Cambridge in the forenoon. There were some men wanted to go
to Charlestown. I went, for one, and viewed the Regulars and found
they were intrenching on Charlestown Hill.
Friday, May ye 26.
At night I and about ten of our company marched with a party of men,
betwixt two and three hundred, for Noddle's Island, headed by Col.
Nixon. We marched through Mystic, Malden and Chelsea.
Saturday May ye 27.
Went on Hogg Island and brought off six horses, twenty-seven horned
cattle and four hundred and eleven sheep. About the middle of the
afternoon went from Hog Island to Noddle's Island and set one house
and barn on fire. Killed some horses and cattle; brought off two or
three cows; one horse. I with five men got off the horse and before
we got from Noddle's Island to Hog Island we were fired upon by a
privateer schooner; but we crossed the river and about fifteen of us
squatted down in a ditch on the marsh and stood our ground; and there
came a company of Regulars on the march on the other side of the river
and the schooner, and we had a hot fire until the Regulars retreated.
But not withstanding the bullets flew very thick not a man of us (was)
killed. Surely God has a favor towards us, and he can save in one
place as well as another. We left the Island about sunset and came to
Chelsea and on Saturday about ten at night marched to Winnisimet ferry
where there was a schooner and a sloop afiring with great fury upon us
there; but thanks be to God that gave us the victory at this time for
through his Providence the schooner that played upon us ran aground
and we set fire to her and consumed her there, and the sloop received
much damage in this engagement. We had not a man killed; but four
wounded and we hope all will recover. One of the four was a Townsend
man belonging to our company. The bullet went through his mouth from
one cheek to the other.
Thursday June ye 1.
There were sheep and cattle and horses we hear, to ye amount of four
or five hundred sheep, twenty or thirty cattle and a number of horses
brought along that our people took from the Regulars off Noddle's
Island.
Friday, June 16.
Nothing done in ye forenoon. In the afternoon we had orders to be
ready to march at six. Agreeable to orders our regiment paraded and
about sunset we were drawn up and had prayers and about dusk marched
for Bunker Hill under command of our own Colonel William Prescott. Just
before we turned out of the road to go up Bunker's Hill, Charlestown,
we were halted, and about sixty men were taken out of our battalion to
go into Charlestown, I being one of them. Capt. Nutting (probably
Capt. John Nutting of Pepperell, captain of a company of "minute men"
from that place) headed us down to the town house. We set our sentin-
els by the water side. The most of us got in the town house but had
orders not to shut our eyes. Our men marched to Bunker Hill and begun
the entrenchments and carried it on with the utmost vigor all night.
Early in the morning I joined them.
Saturday June ye 17.
The enemy appeared to be much alarmed on Saturday morning when they
discovered our operations and immediately began a heavy cannonading
from a battery on Cop(p)'s Hill, Boston and from the ships in ye
harbor. We with little loss continued to carry on our work till ten
o'clock when we discovered a large body of the enemy crossing Charles
River from Boston. They landed on a point of land about a mile east-
ward of our entrenchment and immediately disposed their army for an
attack, previous to which they set fire to the town of Charlestown.
It is supposed that the enemy intended to attack us under the cover of
the smoke from the burning houses: the wind favoring them in such a
design; while on the other side their army was extending northward
towards Mystic river with an apparent design of surrounding our men
in the works and of cutting off any assistance intended for our relief.
They were, however, in some measure counteracted in this design, and
drew their army into closer order. As the enemy approached our men
were not only exposed to the attack of a very numerous muquetry but
to a heavy fire from the battery on Cop(p)'s Hill, 4 or 5 men of war,
several armed boats or floating batteries in Mystic River, and a numb-
er of field pieces. Notwithstanding we within the entrenchment and at
a breastwork within sustained the enemy's attacks with real bravery
and resolution. Killed and wounded great numbers, and repulsed them
several times; and after bearing for about two hours as severe and
heavy a fire as perhaps ever was known, and many having fired away all
their amunition, and having no reinforcement although there was a
great body of men nie by, we were overpowered by numbers and obliged
to leave the intrenchment, retreating about sunset to a small distance
until the enemy had got in. I then retreated about ten or fifteen rods.
Then I received a wound in my right arm, the ball going through a
little
below the elbow, breaking the little shell bone. Another ball struck
my back, taking off a piece of skin about as big as a penny; but I got
to Cambridge that night.
The town of Charlestown I supposed to contain about 300 dwelling houses
a great number of which were large and elegant, besides 150 or 200
other buildings (these) are almost laid in ashes by the barbarity and
wanton cruelty of that infernal villain Thomas Gage. Oh! the goodness
of God in preserving my life though they fell on my right hand and on
my left. I was in great pain the first night with my wound.
Sunday June 18.
I and Phineas Hubbard came to Mr. Watsons.
Monday June 19.
Mr. Hubbard and I set out for home. Came as far as Lincoln; met our
honored fathers. Got as far as Concord that night.
Tuesday, June 20. We got home.
Note: Here he makes a memorandum that for a considerable time past, he
could not keep up his journal on account of the wound in his arm but
under date of August 14, he says:
"Now I begin to write a littel;" and he proceeds: "Monday August 14.
Set out for Cambridge got there that day: found our company pretty
well." From that day to August 24 nothing of interest is recorded.
On that day he says:
"About twelve o'clock I had my arm dressed. Dr. Hart opened it nigh
two inches down to the bone. About 3 in the afternoon Col. William
Prescott (his cousin) gave orders to march to Sewell's Point and they
marched, but I did not go with them because of my wound."
He remained with the army at Cambridge until Oct. 27 and his diary
contains a record of the doings, in which, in consequence of his wound,
he was an actor only to a limited extent. On that day he was furlough-
ed and sent home, when it was found that in addition to his wound he
had camp fever. He recovered however, but was unable again to return
to the army at Cambridge. I have not thought proper to change a word
of this simple record of what was done under his observation and of
the acts in which he was a participant from the 19th of April to the
17th of June, 1775. His words are better than mine. (Claudius Farns-
worth)
Much that Amos Farnsworth observed was not commited to his diary and
this writer remembers listening as a boy to his reminiscences of Bunker
Hill and other acts in the Revolutionary drama in which he was an act-
or. Among other things I heard him say that as the troops under
Colonel Prescott were leaving the entrenchment at Bunker Hill they met
General Putnam who, with a large body of men had remained "nie by", as
Amos Farnsworth expressed it in his diary, but had not participated in
the battle. Amos Farnsworth was very near the two commanders and
distinctly hear the conversation between them. Colonel Prescott began
by sharply asking General Putnam why he had not sent up reinforcements
as he had promised. Putnam answered that he "could not drive the
damned dogs up." To this Colonel Prescott hotly responded: "Then why
did you not lead them up? They would have followed you."
Note: This conversation is re-iterated word for word in the memoirs
of Colonel William Prescott as reported in the Prescott Memorial.
On Tuesday, Dec. 5, 1775, Amos Farnsworth's father and his brother
Benjamin were both drowned by the upsetting of a boat in the Nashua
River, near where they lived and the whole care of the family devolved
on him. Yet, in spite of his wounded and weak arm and the state of the
family, the next year, in the summer of 1776, he volunteered to go to
the defence of Ticonderoga in Colonel Reed's regiment that was raised
in the neighborhood of Groton (MA) for that purpose. He had served
as a corporal at Bunker Hill. He had done so well that he was made an
ensign, equivalent to a second lieutenant, in that expedition. He went
into service in Col. Reed's expedition on the 23d of July and returned
home at the close of the year with his men. While at Ticonderoga he
was engaged in several affairs with the British which he briefly
relates
in his journal, but which are not of sufficient interest to repeat
here.
He was afterwards while holding a commision as first lieutenant in a
company of Matrosses (commanded by William Swan) in Colonel Jonathan
Reed's regiment, sent with some troops to New Jersey, where notwith-
standing his weak arm, he performed effective service by his bravery
and judgement and by his care of his men, with whom he was always
popular.
His first commission as ensign or second lieutenant was in the
infantry.
His next commission was in the artillery or "Matrosses" as that branch
of the service was called. His commission as first lieutenant is in
the name of "The Major Part of the Council of Massachusetts Bay in New
England," as the State government had not then been organized, and
Massachusetts was then under an ex tempore government. His commission
as first lieutenant is as follows: Official Document...
State of Massachusetts Bay - The Major Part of the Council of Massa-
chusetts Bay in New England.
SEAL To Amos Farnsworth, Gentleman, Greeting.
"You being appointed First Lieutenant of a company of Matrosses
commanded by William Swan raised in the Sixth Regiment of Militia
in the County of Middlesex wherof Jonathan Reed Esquire is Colonel
to rank as Captain, By Virtue of the Power vested in us, We do by
these Presents (reposing specail Trust and Confidence in your Loyalty,
Courage and good Conduct,) Commission you accordingly. You are there-
fore carefully and deligently to discharge the Duty of a First Lieut.
in leading, ordering, and exercising said Company in Arms, both infer-
ior Officers and Soldiers; and to keep them in good Order and Disipline
And they are hereby commanded to obey you as their first Lieut., and
you are yourself, to observe and follow such Orders and instructions
as you shall from time to time receive from the Major Part of the
Council or your Superior Officers.
Given under our Hands and the Seal of the said State at Boston the
Nineteenth Day of October in the Year of our Lord, 1778.
By the Command of the Major Part of the Council
John Avery, Deputy Secretary
Jer. Powell
Artemas Ward
T. Cushing
Benj. Austin
H. Gardner
D. Hopkins
Saml. Danielson
N. Cushing
B. White
Danl. Davis
Oliver Prescott
Oliver Wendell
A. Fuller
E. Brooks
Fra. Dana
After the close of the war, he was commissioned as "Captain of a
company of Matrosses in the Brigade of Militia in the County of
Middlesex." That company is the old Groton Artillery Company. The
commission bears the signature of John Hancock as "Governor and
Commander in Chief in and over the Commonwealth of Massachusetts."
This company is still in existence. His next commission, signed
by Samuel Adams as Governor, appoints him "Major of a Battalion of
Artillery in the Second Brigade of the Third Division of the Militia
of this Commonwealth comprehending the County of Middlesex," and is
dated July 1, 1794.
The poverty of the people of Massachusetts at the close of the Revolu-
tionary War, and their distress in consequence of it was very great.
Paper money became valueless; many were heavily indebted; taxes were
burdensome; and the way out of their difficulties was obscure. Great
economy in the government was needed and practiced. The military
organizations were reduced to a point lower than was consistent with
with safety. In the year 1786 the "Shay's Rebellion" broke out. The
necessity of having some provision in the laws for the collection of
debts so exasperated some hasty and indebted persons that they did as
has been done in other periods of the world's history, they rebelled.
Job Shattuck of Groton (MA) was one of the leaders in the rebellion.
The cannon of the Groton Artillery Company, then under Major Amos
Farnsworth's command were usually kept in an out-building on his farm.
The first movement made by Shattuck and his associates was one October
night, 1786, to break open the building in which the guns were stored,
drag them across the fields to the Nashua River and pitch them into it,
after which they retired quietly to their homes. The loss of the guns
was learned early the next morning; the course taken with them was
tracked through the frosty grass; they were very soon found, and before
night they were restored to the place from which they had been taken
and a guard was kept over them afterwards until the close of the
political troubles.
Amos Farnsworth had the reputation of being an efficient and very
popular officer. In addition to his military services he was for
several years a deacon of the church of Groton and he served the church
in many business ways until old age diminished his powers. He died
October 29, 1847 at the advanced age of ninety three years and six
months. His wife survived him but a few weeks and died Dec. 11, 1847
aged ninety years.
Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth (Amos is in my direct line of descent)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
p.5 continued.
CAPTAIN HENRY FARWELL AND CAPTAIN ASA LAWRENCE.
These two companies of minute men had been expecting the call,
and, true to their designation, were ready to march at short
notice. On that eventful nineteenth, both companies - one of
them under the command of Captain Henry Farwell, and the other
under that of Captain Asa Lawrence - rallied on the Common. It
is probable that by the middle of the forenoon, they started for
the scene of action. One of these companies bivouacked that night
in Lexington, and it is very likely that the other did also. The
intense excitement of a forced march, due not only to what they
saw on the way, but to what they heard, speeded their steps and
there was no lagging on the road. They left their homes as
British subjects, but came home as independent citizens, who
never again knew the authority of a King.
INSERT.
The grave of Captain Henry Farwell at the
Old Burying Ground, Groton, Massachusetts.
p.120 of the book, Epitaphs from the Old Burying Ground,
Groton, Masssachusetts by Dr. Samuel A. Green, Little, Brown
& Company, 1878 (full book sent on requst to me, Janice
Farnsworth - farns10th@aol.com
p.120 The Old Burying Ground, Groton, Massachusetts.
WILLOW TREE AND URN
ERECTED IN
MEMORY OF
CAPTAIN HENRY FARWELL
WHO DIED
JANUARY 9, 1804
IN THE 81 YEAR OF HIS AGE.
The son of William & Elizabeth Farwell, born
July 21, 1724; a soldier in the French & Indian
Wars and a Captain of a Company of Minute Men at
the opening of the Revolution. He was severely
wounded at the battle of Bunker Hill.
p.5 - continued
According to tradition there were a few adventurous men who,
after hearing the news of an English incursion, but before
their knowledge of actual bloodshed, pushed on to Concord,
independently of the military companies, and took part in
the engagement at the North Bridge, and perhaps with the
Minute-Men followed up the British grenadiers on their re-
retreat. In confirmation of this tradition, see the "New
Chapter in the History of the Concord Fight," which is print-
ed later in this volume, and gives much circumstantial evidence
on the subject.
The events of the 19th brought political matters to a head.
The hasty assemblage of military companies, which then rushed
to the neighborhood of Boston, by no means formed an effective
army. While the men and officers had the true martial spirit,
they were undisciplined as well as inexperienced.
The Reverend George E. Ellis, D.D., in his "History of the
Battle of Bunker Hill," has well described the men who volun-
teered during this emergency.
p.6 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
The yeomen of town and village had not come together at the
summons of a commander-in-chief through adjutant, herald or
advertisement. They came unbidden, at an alarm from the bell
on their meeting-house, or from a post-rider, or from news
transmitted by tongue and ear. And they came for what they
were and as they were, with their light summer clothing, in
shirt and frock and apron; with what was left from their last
meals in their pantries, packed with a few "notions" in a sack
or a pillow-case, and with their ducking-guns, fowling-pieces
or shaky muskets used in old times against the vermin and game
in the woods and the Indians skulking in the thicket. And for
the most part, they were as free to go away as they had been to
come.
They were enlisted after a fashion, some prime conditions of
of which were their own convenience or pleasure. The need of a
thorough re-organization of these various bodies was felt both
by the Committee of Safety and by the Provincial Congress; and
steps were taken at once by the authorities to consolidate the
detached companies and skeleton commands, and to bring order out
of chaos. According to the muster-roll of Captain Henry Farwell's
company, re-enlistments began in his command on April 25; and pre-
sumably also in the other companies.
At this time a consolidation was made of Farwell's company with
Captain James Hosley's company of minute-men from Townsend, an
adjoining town. Probably a similar consolidation took place with
other companies of like character as to neighborhood of homes,
mutual acquaintance, etc. The minute-men had enlisted for a
short and indefinite term of service, and, when the emergency was
over, his part of the contract was fulfilled. The men whose names
appear on the Muster-roll as having served only six days were
those, presumably, who re-enlisted in Farwell's Company, or in
some of the other companies, and remained in the field near
Boston. It is known that a few of them joined either Captain
Asa Lawrence's company or Captain Joseph Moors's, which were
enlisted for a period of eight months, or until
p.7 The Advance of the British Troops.
the end of the year 1775. The men who are accredited on Farwell's
Roll of minute-men with seventy miles' travel are those, doubt-
less, who returned home soon after the reorganization.
After the consolidation of Farwell's company with Hosley's, the
roll includes the names of a few men from other towns besides
Groton and Townsend.
TIMOTHY STONE & PELETIAH RUSSELL
Timothy Stone enlisted from the town of Ashby. Peletiah Russell
was from Coos Country in New Hampshire and later was a resident of
Groton.
JONATHAN SAWTELL.
Jonathan Sawtell was a native of Groton, from Rindge, New Hamp-
shire.
JEREMIAH WIER.
Jeremiah Wier, from Limerick, the old name of Stoddard, New
Hampshire.
AMOS FARNSWORTH.
Among the men who marched in Captain Farwell's company was
Amos Farnsworth, who kept a diary from the time he left Groton
until the end of October, when he was taken sick and returned
home. Amos Farnsworth was a good type of Middlesex yeomanry,
and both by kinship and social intercourse, was connected with
some of the best families in the neighborhood. He was a fair
representative of the average soldier of the period, being more
of a patriot than of a scholar; and during the times that tried
men's souls, this quality was of great importance than a know-
ledge of spelling or writing. The diary contains many little
entries which throw much side-light on certain events. It is
the only contemporary record which tells where the company
bivouacked at the end of the first day's march, a fact of some
interest to the descendants of the soldiers.
INSERT.
Subject: Noddle's Island, Boston Harbor - in 1629, and during the Revolutionary
War.
Source: King's Handbook of Boston by M. F. Sweetser
Cambridge, Mass., Moses King, Publisher - Harvard Square, 1878.
p.111
Noddle's Island, East Boston.
A mile and a half north of South Boston, across the inner harbor, at whose western
end rise the wharves and hills of Boston, is the Island Ward of EAst Boston, cover-
ing more than a square mile, and connected with the city by three steam-ferries,
and with the mainland on the north by several bridges. This locality was for over
two centuries known as Noddle's Island, from William Noddle, who was probably sent
out by Brereton, and settled upon it in 1629, before Boston was founded.
This pioneer was a bachelor, and the name is extinct. Sir William Brereton re-
ceived an early grant of it; but the first conspicuous settler was Samuel Maverick,
Gentleman, who erected a small fortified mansion, with artillery to defend it, and
was in comfortable possession, and authority long before Winthrop's Fleet (of 1630)
entered the bay. The Puritans, coming later, allowed Maverick to remain here, on
payment yearly of "a fatt weather, a fatt hogg, or XLs in money;" although it is
most likely that he was an adherent of the Gorges government, together with Walford,
Blackstone, and Morton. He certainly lived under the stigmas of being an Episco-
palian and a Royalist, and met with annoying persecutions from the Boston authorities.
Maverick was the first New England slaveholder, when Capt. Pierce brought negroes
hither from the Tortugas in 1638, and sold them in Boston. In 1645, after LaTour's
terrible enemy, D'Aulnay, had stormed the fort at St. John, and sailed away with his
plate and treasures, leaving Madame La Tour dead of a broken heart, the unhappy chief-
tain came to Maverick's little castle, where he spent the dreary winter. Not long
afterwards the godly brethren of Boston made new encroachments on the rights of their
prelatical neighbor, and he found himself forced to depart from the fair island-home.
Some years later he died at New Amsterdam.
During their time of suffering from persecution, about 1660-70, the Baptists of Boston
used to meet here, under the title of "The Church of Jesus Christ, worshipping at
Noddle's Island in New England." The poor fellows labored under all sorts of dis-
advantages in town; but in this insular sanctuary their worship was undisturbed, until
the slow liberalization of Massachusetts gave them opportunity to enter Boston as
accepted Christian brethren. A century later the comfortable Williams' mansion was the
pride of Noddle's Island and Putnam, Knox, Lincoln and the clergy of Boston made fre-
quent visits here. The house was graced by six comely daughters, whose harpsichord was
the forerunner of musical Boston; and the hills on the island gave pasturage to 43
horses and 223 cattle.
After this house was burned in the skirmish of 1775, Washington
gave Mr. Williams one of the Continental barracks at Cambridge, which he moved down to
the island, and remodelled into a new mansion. During the siege of Boston a score of
young ladies left the beleaguered town and took refuge on Noddle's Island, perhaps
in this well-known house of Williams. One of these was expecially dear to William
Tudor, the judge-advocate-general of the American army; and he used to visit her fre-
quently, passing from Cambridge to Chelsea, where he undressed, and tied his clothing
in a bundle, fastened upon his head; after which he swam to the island, resuming his
garments, and called upon the fair lady. The result of these Hellespontic wooings was
a happy marriage, whence came three sons and two daughters, in later days patricians
of the good Commonwealth.
Passing abruptly from love to war, we find that on this same island was fought the
second battle of the Revolution, and the first in which the American artillery was used.
On May 27, 1775, General John Stark and 300 men were sent to clear out the livestock on
Noddle's Island; and after they had driven 400 sheep inland from Breed's Island, they
engaged the British marines on Noddle's but were driven back when large re-enforcements
of Regulars crossed from Boston. In the meantime, General Gage sent a schooner armed with
sixteen small guns, and eleven barges full of marines up Chelsea Creek, to cut off the
raiders; while Putnam came to their relief with 300 men and two guns. The fight lasted
all night; but, although fresh troops poured over from Boston, the Americans forced the
crew of the schooner to abandon her and flee, and drove back the other vessels. They
took the artillery from the captured vessel and then burnt her, and retired to the main-
land, having inflicted severe loss on the British forces. Lord Percy was immensely dis-
gusted at this affair, and worte home to his father: "The rebels have lately amused them-
selves with burning the houses on an island just under the Admiral's nose; and a schooner
with four carriage-guns and some swivels, which he sent to drive them off, unfortunately
got ashore and the rebels burned her." Philip Freneau, the poet of the Revolution, makes
General Gage speak thus, at this time, referring to the partial famine caused by the
American raids on the islands:
"Three weeks, ye gods! nay, three long years it seems
Since roast beef I have touched, exept in dreams.
In sleep, choice dishes to my view repair:
Waking, I gape, and champ the empty air. (etc)
In 1780 there were many sick men on the French fleet in the harbor, and barracks were
erected on the island for hospitals. The poor fellows christened their gloomy quarters
"L'ile de France'; but small comfort did they find in that, with dead soldiers being borne
to the burying-ground every hour. The mortality was serious, and many a good Gaulish veter-
and was laid to his eternal rest on the hills of Noddle's Island. After the British forces
evacuated Boston the island was strongly fortified.
Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth
Major Amos Farnsworth - Noddle's Island
His Journal of the Revolutionary War.
(The original journal is now owned by the Massachusetts Historical Society.)
Subject: FARNSWORTH, Amos Jr.
His Journal of the Revolutionary War - Noddle's Island
Source: Matthias Farnsworth and His Descendants in America
A Monograph by Claudius Buchanan Farnsworth
Published privately by the author 1891
Journal of Amos Farnsworth, Jr.
April 1775
"We marched and came there (to Concord) where some had been killed.
Pulled on and came to Lexington, where much hurt was done to the
houses by breaking glass and burning of many houses, but they were
forced to retreat though they were more numerous than we. And I saw
many dead Regulars by the way. Went into a house where the blood was
half over shoes.
Thursday April 20, 1775
Came to Cambridge in the forenoon. There were some men wanted to go
to Charlestown. I went, for one, and viewed the Regulars and found
they were intrenching on Charlestown Hill.
Friday, May ye 26.
At night I and about ten of our company marched with a party of men,
betwixt two and three hundred, for Noddle's Island, headed by Col.
Nixon. We marched through Mystic, Malden and Chelsea.
Saturday May ye 27.
Went on Hogg Island and brought off six horses, twenty-seven horned
cattle and four hundred and eleven sheep. About the middle of the
afternoon went from Hog Island to Noddle's Island and set one house
and barn on fire. Killed some horses and cattle; brought off two or
three cows; one horse. I with five men got off the horse and before
we got from Noddle's Island to Hog Island we were fired upon by a
privateer schooner; but we crossed the river and about fifteen of us
squatted down in a ditch on the marsh and stood our ground; and there
came a company of Regulars on the march on the other side of the river
and the schooner, and we had a hot fire until the Regulars retreated.
But not withstanding the bullets flew very thick not a man of us (was)
killed. Surely God has a favor towards us, and he can save in one
place as well as another. We left the Island about sunset and came to
Chelsea and on Saturday about ten at night marched to Winnisimet ferry
where there was a schooner and a sloop afiring with great fury upon us
there; but thanks be to God that gave us the victory at this time for
through his Providence the schooner that played upon us ran aground
and we set fire to her and consumed her there, and the sloop received
much damage in this engagement. We had not a man killed; but four
wounded and we hope all will recover. One of the four was a Townsend
man belonging to our company. The bullet went through his mouth from
one cheek to the other.
Thursday June ye 1.
There were sheep and cattle and horses we hear, to ye amount of four
or five hundred sheep, twenty or thirty cattle and a number of horses
brought along that our people took from the Regulars off Noddle's
Island.
Friday, June 16.
Col. William Prescott.
Nothing done in ye forenoon. In the afternoon we had orders to be
ready to march at six. Agreeable to orders our regiment paraded and
about sunset we were drawn up and had prayers and about dusk marched
for Bunker Hill under command of our own Colonel William Prescott. Just
before we turned out of the road to go up Bunker's Hill, Charlestown,
we were halted, and about sixty men were taken out of our battalion to
go into Charlestown, I being one of them. Capt. Nutting (probably
Capt. John Nutting of Pepperell, captain of a company of "minute men"
from that place) headed us down to the town house. We set our sentin-
els by the water side. The most of us got in the town house but had
orders not to shut our eyes. Our men marched to Bunker Hill and begun
the entrenchments and carried it on with the utmost vigor all night.
Early in the morning I joined them.
Saturday June ye 17.
The enemy appeared to be much alarmed on Saturday morning when they
discovered our operations and immediately began a heavy cannonading
from a battery on Copp's Hill, Boston and from the ships in ye
harbor. We with little loss continued to carry on our work till ten
o'clock when we discovered a large body of the enemy crossing Charles
River from Boston. They landed on a point of land about a mile east-
ward of our entrenchment and immediately disposed their army for an
attack, previous to which they set fire to the town of Charlestown.
It is supposed that the enemy intended to attack us under the cover of
the smoke from the burning houses: the wind favoring them in such a
design; while on the other side their army was extending northward
towards Mystic river with an apparent design of surrounding our men
in the works and of cutting off any assistance intended for our relief.
They were, however, in some measure counteracted in this design, and
drew their army into closer order. As the enemy approached our men
were not only exposed to the attack of a very numerous muquetry but
to a heavy fire from the battery on Copp's Hill, 4 or 5 men of war,
several armed boats or floating batteries in Mystic River, and a numb-
er of field pieces. Notwithstanding we within the entrenchment and at
a breastwork within sustained the enemy's attacks with real bravery
and resolution. Killed and wounded great numbers, and repulsed them
several times; and after bearing for about two hours as severe and
heavy a fire as perhaps ever was known, and many having fired away all
their amunition, and having no reinforcement although there was a
great body of men nie by, we were overpowered by numbers and obliged
to leave the intrenchment, retreating about sunset to a small distance
until the enemy had got in. I then retreated about ten or fifteen rods.
Then I received a wound in my right arm, the ball going through a
little below the elbow, breaking the little shell bone. Another ball struck
my back, taking off a piece of skin about as big as a penny; but I got
to Cambridge that night.
The town of Charlestown I supposed to contain about 300 dwelling houses
a great number of which were large and elegant, besides 150 or 200
other buildings (these) are almost laid in ashes by the barbarity and
wanton cruelty of that infernal villain Thomas Gage. Oh! the goodness
of God in preserving my life though they fell on my right hand and on
my left. I was in great pain the first night with my wound.
Sunday June 18.
I and Phineas Hubbard came to Mr. Watsons.
Monday June 19.
Mr. Hubbard and I set out for home. Came as far as Lincoln; met our
honored fathers. Got as far as Concord that night.
Tuesday, June 20. We got home.
Note: Here he makes a memorandum that for a considerable time past, he
could not keep up his journal on account of the wound in his arm but
under date of August 14, he says:
"Now I begin to write a littel;" and he proceeds: "Monday August 14.
Set out for Cambridge got there that day: found our company pretty
well." From that day to August 24 nothing of interest is recorded.
On that day he says:
"About twelve o'clock I had my arm dressed. Dr. Hart opened it nigh
two inches down to the bone. About 3 in the afternoon Col. William
Prescott (his cousin) gave orders to march to Sewell's Point and they
marched, but I did not go with them because of my wound."
He remained with the army at Cambridge until Oct. 27 and his diary
contains a record of the doings, in which, in consequence of his wound,
he was an actor only to a limited extent. On that day he was furlough-
ed and sent home, when it was found that in addition to his wound he
had camp fever. He recovered however, but was unable again to return
to the army at Cambridge. I have not thought proper to change a word
of this simple record of what was done under his observation and of
the acts in which he was a participant from the 19th of April to the
17th of June, 1775. His words are better than mine. (Claudius Farns-
worth)
Much that Amos Farnsworth observed was not commited to his diary and
this writer remembers listening as a boy to his reminiscences of Bunker
Hill and other acts in the Revolutionary drama in which he was an act-
or. Among other things I heard him say that as the troops under
Colonel Prescott were leaving the entrenchment at Bunker Hill they met
General Putnam who, with a large body of men had remained "nie by", as
Amos Farnsworth expressed it in his diary, but had not participated in
the battle.
Amos Farnsworth was very near the two commanders and
distinctly hear the conversation between them. Colonel Prescott began
by sharply asking General Putnam why he had not sent up reinforcements
as he had promised. Putnam answered that he "could not drive the
damned dogs up." To this Colonel Prescott hotly responded: "Then why
did you not lead them up? They would have followed you."
Note: This conversation is re-iterated word for word in the memoirs
of Colonel William Prescott as reported in the Prescott Memorial.
On Tuesday, Dec. 5, 1775, Amos Farnsworth's father and his brother
Benjamin were both drowned by the upsetting of a boat in the Nashua
River, near where they lived and the whole care of the family devolved
on him. Yet, in spite of his wounded and weak arm and the state of the
family, the next year, in the summer of 1776, he volunteered to go to
the defence of Ticonderoga in Colonel Reed's regiment that was raised
in the neighborhood of Groton (MA) for that purpose. He had served
as a corporal at Bunker Hill. He had done so well that he was made an
ensign, equivalent to a second lieutenant, in that expedition. He went
into service in Col. Reed's expedition on the 23d of July and returned
home at the close of the year with his men. While at Ticonderoga he
was engaged in several affairs with the British which he briefly
relates in his journal, but which are not of sufficient interest
to repeat here.
He was afterwards while holding a commision as first lieutenant in a
company of Matrosses (commanded by William Swan) in Colonel Jonathan
Reed's regiment, sent with some troops to New Jersey, where notwith-
standing his weak arm, he performed effective service by his bravery
and judgement and by his care of his men, with whom he was always
popular.
His first commission as ensign or second lieutenant was in the
infantry.
His next commission was in the artillery or "Matrosses" as that branch
of the service was called. His commission as first lieutenant is in
the name of "The Major Part of the Council of Massachusetts Bay in New
England," as the State government had not then been organized, and
Massachusetts was then under an ex tempore government. His commission
as first lieutenant is as follows: Official Document...
State of Massachusetts Bay - The Major Part of the Council of Massa-
chusetts Bay in New England.
SEAL To Amos Farnsworth, Gentleman, Greeting.
"You being appointed First Lieutenant of a company of Matrosses
commanded by William Swan raised in the Sixth Regiment of Militia
in the County of Middlesex wherof Jonathan Reed Esquire is Colonel
to rank as Captain, By Virtue of the Power vested in us, We do by
these Presents (reposing specail Trust and Confidence in your Loyalty,
Courage and good Conduct,) Commission you accordingly. You are there-
fore carefully and deligently to discharge the Duty of a First Lieut.
in leading, ordering, and exercising said Company in Arms, both infer-
ior Officers and Soldiers; and to keep them in good Order and Disipline
And they are hereby commanded to obey you as their first Lieut., and
you are yourself, to observe and follow such Orders and instructions
as you shall from time to time receive from the Major Part of the
Council or your Superior Officers.
Given under our Hands and the Seal of the said State at Boston the
Nineteenth Day of October in the Year of our Lord, 1778.
By the Command of the Major Part of the Council.
John Avery, Deputy Secretary
Jer. Powell
Artemas Ward
T. Cushing
Benj. Austin
H. Gardner
D. Hopkins
Saml. Danielson
N. Cushing
B. White
Danl. Davis
Oliver Prescott
Oliver Wendell
A. Fuller
E. Brooks
Fra. Dana
After the close of the war, he was commissioned as "Captain of a
company of Matrosses in the Brigade of Militia in the County of
Middlesex." That company is the old Groton Artillery Company. The
commission bears the signature of John Hancock as "Governor and
Commander in Chief in and over the Commonwealth of Massachusetts."
This company is still in existence. His next commission, signed
by Samuel Adams as Governor, appoints him "Major of a Battalion of
Artillery in the Second Brigade of the Third Division of the Militia
of this Commonwealth comprehending the County of Middlesex," and is
dated July 1, 1794.
The poverty of the people of Massachusetts at the close of the Revolu-
tionary War, and their distress in consequence of it was very great.
Paper money became valueless; many were heavily indebted; taxes were
burdensome; and the way out of their difficulties was obscure. Great
economy in the government was needed and practiced. The military
organizations were reduced to a point lower than was consistent with
with safety. In the year 1786 the "Shay's Rebellion" broke out. The
necessity of having some provision in the laws for the collection of
debts so exasperated some hasty and indebted persons that they did as
has been done in other periods of the world's history, they rebelled.
Job Shattuck of Groton (MA) was one of the leaders in the rebellion.
The cannon of the Groton Artillery Company, then under Major Amos
Farnsworth's command were usually kept in an out-building on his farm.
The first movement made by Shattuck and his associates was one October
night, 1786, to break open the building in which the guns were stored,
drag them across the fields to the Nashua River and pitch them into it,
after which they retired quietly to their homes. The loss of the guns
was learned early the next morning; the course taken with them was
tracked through the frosty grass; they were very soon found, and before
night they were restored to the place from which they had been taken
and a guard was kept over them afterwards until the close of the
political troubles.
Amos Farnsworth had the reputation of being an efficient and very
popular officer. In addition to his military services he was for
several years a deacon of the church of Groton and he served the church
in many business ways until old age diminished his powers. He died
October 29, 1847 at the advanced age of ninety three years and six
months. His wife survived him but a few weeks and died Dec. 11, 1847
aged ninety years.
Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth (Amos is in my direct line of descent)
GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
According to the diary, a Townsend member of Captain Farwell's
company, was wounded in a skirmish with the enemy near Chelsea,
on May 27th, and two days later there was a funeral in the same
company, presumably that of the wounded man, but no name in conn-
ection therewith is mentioned. In the return of Farwell's company,
printed on p. 16, it is said that William Smith of Townsend, en-
listed on April 19, and that "He dyed at Cambridge, May 29." In
the roll, printed on p. 15, he is credited with only forty-one
p.8 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
days' service, while most of the other men are accredited
with ninety-eigh days' service. According to their Roll,
his pay stopped on May 29, which was the day of his death,
according to the other roll. See Richard Frothingham's
"Siege of Boston" (p.109) for an account of the skirmish,
which agrees very closely with that given by Mr. Farns-
worth; and see also Miss Sarah L. Bailey's "Historical
Sketches of Andover (p.311).
WILLIAM SMITH, FIRST SOLDIER KILLED
Without doubt, William Smith was the first soldier from
Townsend, Mass., killed by the enemy in the Revolution,
and as the earliest victim of British bullets, he de-
serves some special recognition on the part of that town,
even at this late day.
John Burge, also of Townsend, and of the same company,
died at Cambridge, Mass., presumably from disease, on
June 3. See the Return of Farwell's Company, p. 16.
Another interesting fact in connection with military
usages crops up in the diary. Under date of Monday,
June 7, the writer makes an entry as follows: "On
Monday my brother Benjamin came and took my place and
on Tuesday about noon, I set out on my jurney for home
and arrived about ten at night." Again, under date of
June 14, he says: - "on Wednesday, I took leave of
friends and rode to Cambridge and my brother came home.
These two entries seem to show that a man in the army,
during the early days of the Revolution at least, could
have a temporary substitute when absent. And that the
Muster-Roll of the company furthermore shows that it
could be done without loss of pay. In those times, mili-
tary discipline was at a low ebb.
CAPTAIN HENRY FARWELL.
p.9 body and lodged near the spine, whence it was taken
out soon after the fight.
Captain Henry Farwell lived near the head of Farmer's
Row, Groton, one or two hundred feet south of the little
brook which runs toward Hazel Grove and forms the
source of "Tuity" brook. An old well near the site of
the house is the only trace of the habitation, now
left. At this homestead, he died on January 9, 1804.
Insert.
Source: The Old Burying Ground, Groton
by Dr. Samuel A. Green
p.120
Willow Tree and Urn
ERECTED
IN
Memory of
Captain Henry Farwell
who died
January 9, 1804
In the 81 year
ofhis age.
The son of William & Elizabeth Farwell,
born July 21, 1724; a soldier in the French
war and a Captain of a company of Minute-men
at the opening of the Revolution. He was
severely wounded at the Battle of Bunker Hill.
-transcribed by Janice Farnsworth-
Captain Farwell was married (1) on December 6, 1749,
to Lydia Tarbell, the eldest child of Samuel and Lydia
(Farnsworth) Tarbell; and he m. (2) on June 3, 1761,
Sarah Taylor of Westford, Mass. (once a part of Groton)
and according to her tombstone, on September 15, 1799,
aged 66 years. By the first marriage there were three
children and by the second, four children. An entry
in the Groton Church records, under date of October
12th, 1800, probably relates to him also, which would
make a third marriage: it is as follows: Captain Henry
Farwell to Hannah Worster, both of Groton." No papers
are to be found in the Middlesex Probate Office at East
Cambridge, which throw light on the name of his widow,
if he left one. An anecdote told on p. 61 of "The
Jubilee of Lawrence Academy," refers to him, and not
to Jonathan Farwell, as there given.
CAPTAIN FARWELL'S BULLET.
The following query was asked in the "Notes and Queries"
department of the "Boston Evening Transcript," May 25,
1895, and an answer given in the issue of May 1, 1897.
(5873) Captain Henry Farwell, who commanded a company
of Minute Men from Groton, at Bunker Hill, was severely
wounded by a musket ball that entered his body, lodging
near his spine. It was extracted the evening of that
day, as recorded in Butler's "History of Groton" p.268
and he engraved 1775 on the ball, leaving it as a
precious relic. A great-grandson of Captain Farwell
wished to know who has possession of the engraved
ball. W.P.B.
p.10 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
5873. Concerning a musket ball that was extracted
from the body of Captain Henry Farwell - Captain
Henry Farwell was my great-grandfather. My father,
James B. Farwell, had that ball in his possession
after the death of my grandfather, Jonathan Farwell.
During the absence of my father and mother, the house
was entered and the box containing the ball was stolen.
My father never found it; 1775 was engraved on the
ball. It was many years ago that it was stolen. If
W. P. B. is a great grandson of Captain Farwell, I
would like to know who he is, as I have no relatives
with those initials. There are grandsons by name of
May. If W.P.B. will write to me I will answer any
questions concerning the ball. C. J. F. P.
The initials "W.P.B." stand for William Phillips
Brazer of Lowell, Mass.; and those of "C.J.F.P."
for Mrs. Caroline J. Farwell Pettengill, the wife
of Henry Emmons Pettengill, of Wilton, New Hampshire,
a great-grandaughter of Captain Farwell, through her
father, James Brazer Farwell and her grandfather,
Jonathan Farwell, who was the youngest child of the
old hero.
The Muster-roll of Captain Farwell's company of Minute-
men, is found among the Revolutionary papers of the
Massachusetts Archives (XII.62) in the State House. A
copy is given below, followed by another roll (Archives,
XIV.96) of his company, dated August 1, after its con-
solidation with Hosley's; and this again by a Return
(Archives, LVI. 60), undated but made in October, 1775.
Subject: Capt. Henry FARWELL
Source: Groton Historical Series by Dr. Samuel A. Green Vol 4 1899
p.431
CAPTAIN HENRY FARWELL
Henry Farwell, the fifth child of William and Elizabeth ( ) Farwell
of Groton, was born on July 21, 1724. He was a soldier during the
French and Indian War and commanded a company of Minutemen that march-
ed from Groton on the memorable 19th of April. He also commanded a
company at the Battle of Bunker Hill where he was severely wounded. A
musket ball passed through his body and lodged near the spine, whence
it was taken out soon after the fight. Captain Farwell lived near the
head of Farmer's Row, one or two hundred feet south of the little brook
which runs toward Hazel Grove and forms the source of 'Tuity Brook'.
An old well near the site of his house is the only trace of the habi-
tation now left. At this homestead he died on January 9, 1804 according to
his epitaph (see p. 120, Epitaphs)
Tombstone
Willow Tree and Urn
Erected in Memory of
Capt. Henry Farwell
Who died Jan 9, 1804
In the 81 year of his
Age
Author's note: The son of William and Elizabeth Farwell, born July 21
1724; a soldier in the French war and a captain of a company of minute
men at the opening of the Revolution. He was severely wounded at the
Battle of Bunker Hill.
During my boyhood a wooden house stood just north of the aforesaid
brooklet, in which lived Asa Lawrence who about the year 1837 built
the brick dwelling still further to the north. For a while these two
structures stood side by side in close proximity to each other; but soon
afterward the wooden house was moved away and now stands on Pleas-
ant Street, just west of the railroad. I am led to record these facts
somewhat in detail, as a slate tablet place on the brick dwelling gives
a wrong idea in regard to the home of Captain Farwell. The inscription
on the slate tablet is as follows:
"In a house standing where the present brick house
is, died in 1803 Captain Farwell one of the Capt-
ains of minutemen under command of Col. Prescott
at the Battle of Bunker Hill. He was wounded
there and carried off for dead. But, on regain-
ing consciousness uttered those memorable words:
"I am not dead and shall not die till I see my
Country free." Placed here by James Lawrence 1893
Captain Farwell was married first on December 6, 1749 to Lydia, eldest
child of Samuel and Lydia (Farnsworth) Tarbell; and secondly on June 3
1761 to Sarah Taylor of Westford. By the first marriage there were
three children and by the 2nd marriage four children. An entry in the
Groton church records, under date of October 12, 1800, probably relates
to him also, which would make a third marriage. It is as follows:
"Capt Henry Farwell to Hannah Worsted both of Groton."
CAPTAIN FARWELL'S BULLET
p.433
The following query was raised in the "Notes and Queries" department
of the "Boston Evening Transcript," May 25, 1895 and an answer was
given in the issue of May 1, 1897.
(5873)
Capt. Henry Farwell, who commanded a company of minutemen from Groton
at Bunker Hill was severely wounded by a musket ball that entered his
body, lodging near the spine. It was extracted the evening of that day
as recorded in Butler's "History of Groton" [p.268] and he engraved
"1775" on the ball, leaving it as a precious relic. A great-grandson
of Captain Farwell's wishes to know who has possession of the engraved
ball." W.P.B.
(5837)[5873]
Concerning a musket ball that was extracted from the body of Capt.
Henry Farwell - Capt. Henry Farwell was my great-grandfather. My
father, James B. Farwell, had that ball in his possession after the
death of my grandfather, Jonathan Farwell. During the absence of my
father and mother the house was entered and the box containing the ball
was stolen. My father never found it; 1775 was engraved on the ball.
It was many years ago that it was stolen. If W.P.B. is a great-grand
son of Capt. Farwell I would like to know who he is, as I have no
relatives with those initials. There are grandsons by name of May. If
W. P. B. will write to me I will answer any questions concerning the
ball. C.J.F.P.
The initials W.P.B. stand for William Phillips Brazer of Lowell; and
those of "C.J.F.P." for Mrs. Caroline J. Farwell Pettengill the wife of
Henry Emmons Pettengill of Wilton, New Hampshire, a great granddaughter
of Capt. Farwell through her father, James Brazer Farwell and her grand
father, Jonathan Farwell who was the youngest child of the old hero.
CAPT HENRY FARWELL'S CHILDREN
Source: Farnsworth Memorial
Benjamin Farnsworth/Mary Prescott Line, Groton, MA
p.213
Lydia Tarball b. Oct 9, 1727 dau of Samuel Tarball and his wife, Lydia
Farnsworth of Groton, MA.
Lydia Tarball m. Dec 6, 1749, Capt. Henry Farwell of Groton, son of
William and Elizabeth Farwell, he b. July 21, 1724 at Groton; she died
1760 and he m. (2) June 3, 1761, Sarah Taylor of Westford, MA. He died
Jan 9, 1804. He had by his first wife, Lydia:
1. Anna Farwell b. Oct 17, 1750; died Feb 20, 1754.
2. Samuel Farwell b. May 21, 1752; died in infancy.
3. William Farwell b. Feb 16, 1754.
By his 2nd wife, Sarah Taylor he had:
4. Lydia Farwell b. Oct 25, 1762 d. Dec 16, 1763.
5. Sarah Farwell b. Dec 4, 1763 m. James Brazer of Charlestown
died 1810. (obviously he m. (2) Mrs. Hannah Pierce)
6. Lydia 2d Farwell b. Oct 14, 1765 m. Dec 25, 1788 John White
7. Jonathan Farwell b. Dec 6, 1767 m. Jan 25, 1801 Sybil Sawtell
dau of Richard and Elizabeth (Bennett) Sawtell. He died April
1845; she died Mar 26, 1839. They resided in Milford, N.H.
Capt. Henry Farwell was a soldier in the French War and a minuteman
of Groton and marched with his company 19 April 1775 to Cambridge; was
in the battle of Bunker Hill and was severely wounded. A musket ball
passed through his body, lodging near his spine, whence it was extracted in
the evening after the battle. See also Butler's Groton
Subject: Capt. Henry Farwell
Source: History of Groton by Caleb Butler 1848
p. 268
FARWELL
This has ever been a prevalent name in the southeast and south part of
Groton. Two of the name, Joseph and Thomas Farwell were chosen deacons
of the church; but it does not appear that Thomas ever officiated.
Henry Farwell the son of William Farwell, Sr. b. July 21, 1724, was a
soldier in the French wars and was captain of one of the companies of
minutemen in Groton, at the commencement of the revolutionary war. He
marched with his company on the 19th of April 1775 to Cambridge; was in
the battle of Bunker Hill and was severely wounded. A musket ball pass-
ed through his body, lodging near the spine, whence it was extracted in
the evening after the battle. He engraved upon the ball the figures
"1775" and kept it as a precious relic. He was a man of small stature
but very strong and athletic and undaunted courage. He died in 1803.
Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth
Groton During the Revolutionary War.
p.11 MUSTER ROLL OF CAPT. HENRY FARWELL'S COMPANY OF
MINUTE-MEN, COL. WILLIAM PRESCOTT'S REG'T WHO
MARCHED FROM GROTON YE 19TH OF APRIL, 1775.
Capt. Henry Farwell
Zachariah Fitch, 1st Lieut.
Amaziah Fassett, 2nd Lieut.
Abel Bancroft, Sergeant.
Jonathan Stone, Sergeant.
Nehemiah Lawrence, Sergeant.
Josiah Stevens, Sergeant.
Nathaniel Sawtell, Corporal
Phineas Hubbard, Corporal.
Silas Page, Corporal.
Samuel Lawrence, Corporal.
Joel Jenkins, Fifer.
Amos Adams, Private.
David Archibald "
Aaron Bigelow "
Thomas Baker "
William Colbourn "
Joshua Davis "
William Farwell "
Oliver Farnsworth "
John Fife "
Oliver Farnsworth, Jr. "
Amos Farnsworth "
Aaron Farnsworth "
Samuel Hemenway "
Phineas Hemenway "
Obadiah Jenkins "
David Jenkins, Jr. "
p.12 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Samuel Kemp, Private "
Ephraim Kemp, "
William Kemp, "
Ebenezer Kemp, "
John Laughton, "
Jonathan Lawrence, "
Samuel Lawrence, "
Jonathan Lawrence, Jr. "
Timothy Moors "
Joseph Page "
Benjamin Page "
Thomas Parks "
John Parker "
William Phelps "
Eph. Russell "
Samuel Rockwood "
Eph. Robbins "
Samuel Sawtell "
Amos Stone "
William Shed "
Jonathan Sawtell "
Jonas Taylor "
Abner Whitcomb "
Ephraim Ward "
______________________Henry Farwell, Capt.
Middlesex ss. Dec. 22nd, 1775.
Henry Farwell made solemn oath that the above roll
by him submitted is just and true in all its parts.
Before me, Moses Gill, Justice of the Peace of ye
Colony. Examined and compared with the Original.
E. Starkweather, Committee
p.13 CAPTAIN HENRY FARWELL
GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
In Council, March 22nd 1776.
Read and allowed & ordered that a warrant on the
Treasury for £51: 9/2-1/4 in full of this Roll.
Perez Morton, D. Secretary
A true copy G. Tailer
Indorsed - Copy - Groton - Captain Henry Farwell,
£51 - 9 - 2-1/4 (Massachusetts Archives, Revol-
tionary Papers, XII. 62)
A muster roll of the Company under the command of
Captain Henry Farwell in Colonel William Prescott's
Regiment to the first of August, 1775.
Name Town Rank Time Travel Service
Henry Farwell Groton Captain April 25 35 98
Levi Whitney Townsend 1st Lieut April 25 44 98
Ben'j. Ball Townsend 2nd Lieut April 25 44 98
Josiah Stevens Groton Sergeant April 25 35 98
Nathaniel Sawtell " Sergeant April 25 35 98
Phineas Hubbard " Sergeant April 25 35 98
Ephraim Brown Townsend Sergeant April 25 44 98
Samuel Lawrence Groton Corporal April 25 35 98
Amos Farnsworth Groton Corporal April 25 35 98
Ephraim Warran Townsend Corporal April 25 44 98
Joseph Page Groton Corporal April 25 35 98
Timothy Stone Ashby Drummer July 19 50 13
Joel Jenkens Groton Fifer April 25 35 98
Ephraim Adams Townsend Pvt. July 19 44 13
Benjamin Brooks Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Isaac Boyanton Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Eleazer Butterfield Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Jonas Brooks Groton Pvt. April 25 35 98
John Clarke Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Moses Chase Groton Pvt. May 6 35 87
William Dirumphel Groton Pvt. April 25 35 98
p.14 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION
James Davis Groton Pvt. April 25 35 98
Josiah Davis Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Henry Dunster Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Joel Davis Townsend Pvt. July 19 44 13
John Emery Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Jonas Farmer Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Joseph Frost Groton Pvt. May 6 35 86
Noah Farrah Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Abel Foster Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Daniel Foster Groton Pvt. April 25 35 98
Moriah Gould Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Oliver Hildrick Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Abijah Hildrick Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Obadiah Jenkins Groton Pvt. April 25 35 98
David Jenkins Groton Pvt. April 25 35 98
Zacheus Farwell Groton Pvt. April 25 35 98
Ebenezer Kemp Groton Pvt. April 25 35 98
Isaac Kidder Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
John Manning Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Henry McNeel Groton Pvt. May 15 35 78
Timothy Moors Groton Pvt. April 25 44 98
Jonathan Patt Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Josiah Richardson Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Peltiah Russell Coas Pvt. May 6 180 87
Joseph Rumral Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Ephraim Russell Groton Pvt. April 25 35 98
Ephraim Robbins Groton Pvt. April 25 35 98
Abel Richardson Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Andrew Richardson Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Isreal Richardson Townsend Pvt. July 19 44 13
Jonathan Sartell Ringe Pvt. April 25 60 98
Daniel Spaulding Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Daniel Sherwin Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Joseph Willson Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
p.15 CAPTAIN HENRY FARWELL.
Francis White Groton Pvt. May 6 35 87
Jeremiah Wier Limbrick Pvt. April 25 96 98
Urial Whitney Groton Pvt. April 25 44 98
Josiah Warren Groton Pvt. May 2 35 91
Thomas Wyman Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Oliver Warren Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
William Smith Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 41
John Burge Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 46
Samuel Weston Townsend Pvt. April 25 44 98
Jonathan Jenkins Groton Pvt. April 25 35 60
Asa White Groton Pvt. May 6 35 53
In Council February 9th, 1776. Read and Allowed &
ordered that a warrant be drawn on ye Treasury for
327.3.5 in full of this roll. Perez Morton, D. Secretary.
Indorsed - Captain Henry Farwell's Roll in Colonel Prescotts
Regiment £327.3.5 for 1775. (Massachusetts Archives,
Revolutionary Papers, XIV.96)
To be continued Part 3. Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth
Groton During The Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green
Part 3.
A Return of Captain Henry Farwell's Company being the
first Company in the 10th Regiment in the Continental
Army, Commanded by Colonel William Prescott of all those
Deceast Since its Establishment & those on Command to
Quebec & each man's place of Residence when Enlisted &
when discharged or deserted.
October, 1775.
Name Place of Residence Engagement.
Colonel Wm. Prescott Pepperell April 19th
Lieut. Col. John Robinson ditto ditto
Major Henry Woods Pepperell ditto
Adjutant Wm. Green Pepperell ditto
Surgeon John Hart Pepperell April 23rd
Surgeon's Mate, Abraham Parley, Georgetown April 23rd.
Quarter Master Zachariah Longley - Groton - April 19th.
p.16 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Sergt Josiah Stevens Groton April 19.
Sergt Nathaniel Sawtell Groton April 19.
Sergt Phineas Hobart Groton April 19.
Sergt Ephraim Brown Townsend April 19.
Corp. Samuel Lawrence Groton April 19.
Corp. Amos Farnsworth Groton April 19.
Corp. Ephraim Warren Townsend April 19.
Corp. Joseph Page Groton April 19.
Timothy Stone Ashby July 19.
Joel Jenkins Groton April 19.
Capt. Henry Farwell Groton April 19
Lieut. Levi Whitney Townsend April 19
Lieut. Benjamin Ball Townsend April 19
Ephraim Adams Townsend July 19, sick, absent
Benjamin Brooks Townsend April 19
Isaac Boynton Townsend April 19
Eleazer Butterfield Townsend April 19
Jonas Brooks Groton April 19
John Clark Townsend April 19
Moses Chase Groton May 6.
Wm. Derumple Groton April 19.
James Davis Groton April 19.
Josiah Davis Townsend April 19.
Henry Dunster Mason April 19.
Joel Davis Townsend July 19.
John Emery Townsend April 19.
Zacheus Farwell Groton April 19.
Jonas Farmer Townsend April 19.
Joseph Frost Groton May 6.
Noah Farrar Townsend April 19.
Abel Foster Townsend April 19.
Daniel Foster Groton April 19.
Moriah Gould Groton April 19.
Oliver Hildreth Westford April 19.
Uriel Whitney Groton April 19.
Josiah Warren Groton April 19.
William Smith Townsend April 19.
He died at Cambridge May 29th.
John Burge Townsend April 19
He died at Cambridge June 3rd.
p.17
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR
Jonathan Jenkins Groton - Died at Charleston Jun 17,
enlisted April 19th.
Abijah Hildreth Townsend April 19 Sick, Absent
Obediah Jenkins Groton April 19 - present
David Jenkins Groton Sick at the hospital
Ebenezer Kemp Groton April 19 - Present.
Isaac Kidder Townsend April 19 - Present.
John Manning Townsend April 19 - Present.
Henry MacNeal Groton April 19 - Present.
Timothy Moors Groton April 19 - Present.
Jonathan Patts Townsend April 19 - Present.
Josiah Richardson Townsend April 19 - Present.
Peltiah Russell Groton May 6 In the artificers
Joseph Rumrill Townsend April 19 - Present
Ephraim Russell Groton April 19 - Present
Ephraim Robins Groton April 19 - Present
Abel Richardson Townsend April 19 - Present
Andrew Richardson Townsend April 19 - Present
Israel Richardson Townsend July 19 - Present
Jonathan Sawtell Groton April 19 - Present
Daniel Spaulding Townsend April 19 - sick at home.
Daniel Sherwin Townsend April 19 - Present
Samuel Wesson Townsend April 19 - Wounded - Present.
Joseph Wilson Townsend April 19 - Present
Francis White Groton May 6 - Present
Jeremiah Wyer Chelmsford April 19 - Present
Oliver Warren Townsend April 19 - Died at Cambridge.
on August 11th
Thomas wyman Townsend April 19 - Discharged on August 11.
Asa White Groton
Enlisted May ye 6th Discharged June 27th
Aaron Bigelow April 19 - Listed in the train May 27th
Dudley Kemp Enlisted in the train June 3rd.
Indorsed - Captain Farwell Henry Farwell, Captain
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, LVI. 60
p.18 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR
CAPTAIN ASA LAWRENCE.
Asa Lawrence, the youngest son of Peleg Lawrence and wife,
Ruth (Brooks) Lawrence of Groton, Massachusetts, was born
on Jun 14, 1737. He was married on July 27, 1757 to Abigail
King of Littleton, Mass. and they had ten children. He died
at Groton, on January 16, 1804; and his widow, at Claremont,
New Hampshire, died on June 12, 1829, aged 93 years. After
the death of her husband, she made her home in the family of
her youngest daughter, Mrs. Abigail Dimond, who lived in
that town.
During the latter part of his life, Captain Asa Lawrence
dwelt in the north part of the town where he ended his days;
but at the breaking out of the Revolution, he was living
on what is now known as the Lowell Road, about a mile from
the Groton First Parish Meeting House. Like Captain Farwell
he commanded a company of Groton Minute-men on April 19;
and it is somewhat singular that these two Revolutionary
veterans should have lived for a generation after the
dangers of a military campaign, and then to have died with-
in a week of each other.
A Muster Roll of the several persons that marched from
Groton to Head Quarters at Cambridge on the 19th of April,
1775 on the Alarm, as a Company of Minute-men under the
command of Captain Asa Lawrence.
Mens Names Rank Travel Out & Home Days
Ezekiel Fletcher 2d Lieut. 70 miles 11
Josiah Hobart Sargeant 70 16
William Derumple Sargeant 70 15
Arthur Dennes Sargeant 70 12
Ephraim Nash Corporal 70 16
p.19 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR
CAPTAIN ASA LAWRENCE.
Samuel Boyden Corporal 70 12
William Nutting Corporal 70 21
James Wood Private 70 14
Phineas Parker Private 70 9
John Graves Private 70 15
Benjamin Patch Private 70 15
Jonathan Pierce Private 70 10
Jonathan Nutting Private 70 15
David Wood Private 70 8
Amasa Gilson Private 70 14
Amos Wood Private 70 14
John Thompson Private 70 10
Daniel Gilson Private 70 12
Daniel Wood Private 70 9
Isaac Nutting Private 70 14
John Procter Private 70 6
Benjamin Parker Private 70 6
Benjamin Prescott Private 70 21
A muster roll of the several persons that marched to Head-
quarters at Cambridge on ye 19th of April, 1775 on ye Alarm
and enlisted under Captain Asa Lawrence in the Continental
Army.
Asa Lawrence Captain 6 Days.
Oliver Parker 1st Lieutenant 11 Days
John Williams Sergeant 6 Days
Oliver Patch Corporal 6 Days
Asa Porter Private 6 Days
Joel Porter Private 6 Days.
p.20 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Ezekial Nutting Private 6 Days.
Abraham Blood Private 6 Days.
Lemuel Blood Private 6 Days.
Eleazer Flagg Private 6 Days.
Robert Parker Private 6 Days.
Elisha Hoit Private 6 Days.
Lemuel Parker Private 6 Days.
Solomon Gilson Private 6 Days.
Jonathan Calbourn Private 6 Days.
Benjamin Blood Private 6 Days.
Eleazer Green, Jr. Private 6 Days.
John Ames, Jr. Private 6 Days.
Jonathan Wood Private 6 Days.
Jonathan Capron Private 6 Days.
William Derumple Private 6 Days.
David Prescott Private 6 Days.
____________________________________________________
OLIVER PARKER, 1st Lieutenant.
Middlesex ss. Watertown, March 14, 1776.
The Captain Asa Lawrence being sick, Oliver Parker ye
1st Lieutenant, made solemn Oath that this roll by him
subscribed, is true in all its parts according to the best
of his knowledge.
In Council February 9th, 1776, Read & Allowed & ordered
that a Warrant be drawn on the Treasury for 41.6.3-1/2
in full of this Roll. Perez Morton, D. Secretary.
Examined & Compared with the Original and it agreed, there-
with. Josiah Johnson
Jonas Dix
Committee.
Indorsed - Groton Copy - Captain Asa Lawrence's Muster Roll.
Massachusetts Archives - Revolutionary Papers, XII. 174.
p.21 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
CAPTAIN ASA LAWRENCE.
A muster-roll of the Company under the Command of Captain
Asa Lawrence in Colonel William Prescott's Regiment to the
first of August, 1775.
Men's Names Towns whence Rank Time of Travel Time of
they came. Enlistment Service.
_______________________________________________________________
Asa Lawrence Groton Captain April 25 35 98 days
Joseph Spaulding Pepperell 1st Lieut April 30 40 49
John Williams Groton 1nd Lieut April 25 35 98
Thomas Spaulding Pepperell Sergant April 28 40 95
Obadiah Wetherell Georgetown Sergant April 25 170 98
Samuel Gilson Pepperell Sergant April 25 40 98
Oliver Patch Groton Sergant April 25 35 98
Lemuel Parker Groton Corporal April 25 35 98
John Shed Pepperell Corporal April 25 40 98
Jonathan Stevens Pepperell Corporal April 25 40 98
Samuel Farley Pepperell Corporal April 25 40 98
Levi Parker Winslowtown Drummer April 25 200 98
Lemuel Parker, Jr. Groton Fifer June 10 35 51
Elisha Hoit Groton Private April 25 35 98
John Ames Groton Private April 25 35 98
Benjamin Blood Groton Private April 25 40 98
Jonathan Boyden Pepperell Private April 25 40 98
James Bowers Pepperell Private April 25 40 98
Lemuel Blood Groton Private April 25 35 98
Jonathan Capron Groton Private April 25 35 98
Jonathan Colburn Groton Private April 25 35 98
Nathan Cory Groton Private April 25 35 98
Eleazer Green Groton Private April 25 35 98
Samuel Green Pepperell Private April 25 40 98
Simeon Green Pepperell Private April 25 40 98
Solomon Gilson Groton Private April 25 35 98
David Hason Groton Private April 25 35 98
Benjamin Jewett Pepperell Private April 25 40 98
John Kilburn Groton Private April 30 35 93
John Lewis Pepperell Private April 25 40 98
Josiah Lakin Groton Private April 25 35 98
Samuel Lovejoy Pepperell Private April 25 40 98
Simon Lakin Pepperell Private April 25 40 98
p.22 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Abel Nutting Groton Private April 25 35 98
Ezekiel Nutting Groton Private April 25 35 98
Ephraim Nutting Groton Private April 25 35 98
Asa Porter Groton Private April 25 35 98
Benjamin Pierce Groton Private April 25 35 98
David Prescott Groton Private April 25 35 98
Eleazer Parker Pepperell Private April 25 40 98
Joel Porter Groton Private April 25 35 98
Daniel Shed Raby Private April 25 50 98
John Shiply Groton Private April 25 35 98
Eleazer Spaulding Pepperell Private April 25 40 98
Nathaniel Shattuck Groton Private April 25 35 98
Jonas Tarbell Groton Private April 30 35 93
David Wetherbee Pepperell Private April 25 40 98
Jonathan Woods Groton Private April 25 35 98
Jacob Williams Groton Private April 25 35 98
Ruben Woods Groton Private April 25 35 98
Simeon Williams Groton Private April 25 35 98
Nehemiah Parker Groton Private April 30 35 93
Thomas Lawrence Pepperell Private April 25 40 98
Steven Foster Groton Private April 25 35 98
Abraham Blood Groton Private April 25 35 54
James Dodge Groton Private April 25 35 98
Benjamin Wood Pepperell Private April 25 40 54
Simon Hobart Groton Private April 25 35 90
Robert Parker Groton Private April 25 35 63
Robert Bizel Newipswich Private April 25 55 62.
__________________________________________________________
Lieutenant John Williams the 2nd Lieutenant till the 17th
of June and from that time the 1st Lieutenant.
Sergeant Thomas Spaulding, a sergeant until the 17th of June
from that time the 2nd Lieutenant.
Corporal Lemuel Parker, a Corporal until the 17th of June &
from that time a Sergeant.
Elisha Hoit, a private until the 17th of June and from that
time, a corporal.
p.23 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR BY DR. SAMUEL
ABBOTT GREEN.
CAPTAIN ASA LAWRENCE.
The whole amount of this role is four hundred fifty two
pounds, seventeen shillings and nine pence. Deduction one
hundred and fifty-six pounds, seven and nine pence.
Balance due, two hundred ninety six pounds and ten shillings.
Attest Nathan Wood.
In Council, January 30, 1776, Read and allowed and ordered
that a warrant be drawn on the Treasury £298:9: 11-1/4 in
full of the within roll. Perez Morton
Captain Asa Lawrence Muster Roll, Colonel William Prescott's
Regiment. Examined by N. Wood.
Indorsed - Captain Asa Lawrence Roll in Colonel William
Prescott's Regiment. £298:9:11-1/2.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XV. 55.
October 6, 1775.
A return of Captain Asa Lawrence's Company in colonel
William Prescott's Regiment.
Captain Asa Lawrence - Groton Groton
First Leutenant John Williams Groton
Second Leut. Thomas Spaulding Pepperell
Sergeants.
Obadiah Wetherll of Pepperell
Samuuel Gilson of Pepperell
Oliver Patch of Groton
Lemuel Parker of Groton
Corporals.
Joseph Shed of Pepperell
Jonathan Stevens of Pepperell
Samuel Farley of Pepperell
Elisha Hoit of Groton.
Drummer/Fifers.
Levi Parker of Wesford
Lemuel Parker of Groton
p.24 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Privates Residence Privates Residence
John Ames Groton Asa Porter Groton
Benjamin Blood Groton Benjamin Pierce Groton, on
Command at Quebec
Jonathan Boyden Pepperell
Lemuel Blood, absent David Prescott Groton
James Bowers Pepperell Eleazer Parker Groton
Jonathan Capron Groton Joel Porter Groton
Jonathan Colburn Groton Nehemiah Parker Groton
Nathan Cory Groton Daniel Shed Raby
Eleazer Green Groton John Shipley Groton
Samuel Green Pepperell Eleazer Spaulding Pepperell
Simeon Green Pepperell Nathaniel Shattuck, Absent
Groton
Solomon Gilson Groton Jonas Tarbell Pepperell
David Hazon Groton David Wetherbee Pepperell
Jeremiah Hobart (absent),
Groton Jonathan Woods Groton
Benjamin Jewett Pepperell Jacob Williams Groton
John Kilburn Littleton Ruben Woods Groton
Jonathan Lewis Pepperell Simeon Williams Groton
Josiah Lakin Groton
Thomas Lawrence Pepperell - killed in battle on the
17th of June, last, or taken
prisoner.
Samuel Lovejoy Pepperell
Simon Lakin,
discharged. Pepperell Lieut. Jospeh Spaulding,
Pepperell.
Stephen Foster Groton Abel Nutting - Groton
James Dodge Groton James Dodge - Groton
Ephraim Nutting,
absent Groton Benjamin Wood - Pepperell.
Simon Hobart of Groton, who died July 24th
Indorsed - Asa Lawrence, Captain.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, LVI. 61.
CAPTAIN ASA LAWRENCE'S COMPANY.
The following affidavit, made by William Adams of Chelms-
ford, Massachusetts, is found among the Revolutionary
papers of the Massachusetts Archives (LV., File H., No.I)
in the volume marked on the back, "Worcester Rolls, Parcels
2nd & Mixed Rolls, Vol. 2." It gives some interesting
facts concerning the service of Captain Lawrence's Comp-
any; and the roll is, so far
p.25 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
EPHRAIM PARKER
as I am aware, the only list extant of the company at
that period. There is reason to think that Ephraim Parker
was a member, although his name does not appear with the
others.
Pomp Phillis, one of the privates, was a negro; then all
colors, red, white and black, were warmly welcomes by
the Patriots.
WILLIAM ADAMS, CHELMSFORD.
William Adams of Chelmsford in County of Middlesex and
in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in the 79th year
of my age, do testify and say that I rendered service
in the Revolutionary War and that I now receive a Pens-
ion for services thus rendered. That in the first part
of the summer of 1778, I enlisted and went to West Point,
the Company that I belonged to was Captain Asa Lawrence's
Company of Groton - the regiment was commanded by Colonel
Poor of Andover or Methuen, some part of our service was
rendered at White Plains and at Peekskill, this was an
eight-months' service and we received our discharges in
the month of February, 1779.
Captain Asa Lawrence's Company.
The Company was commanded principally by the First Leut-
enant, John Flint of Tukesbury and this Company was made
up of men from Groton, Chelmsford, Bilerica, Tukesbury,
and other towns in this vicinity, and I further testify
that I have carefully examined the Role of Captain Asa
Lawrence's Company, hereto attached and the principle
part of the names born on this Roll are familiar to me,
and many of the men's names, born on the Roll, are per-
sons which I am certain were with me in the eight-month's
service as above described, and I have no doubt but what
it is an original Roll of the Company which I rendered
service in, as above described. (signed) William Adams.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Middlesex Manuscripts. Chelmsford, April 23, 1841 - then
Personally appeared the above named William Adams, well
known to me to be a person of sound mind and veracity,
made oath that the above affadvait by him subscribed, is
true, before me, Benjamin Adams, Justice of the Peace.
p.26 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
A Roll of Captain Asa Lawrence's Company, in Colonel
Poor's Regiment.
Captain Asa Lawrence Alpheus Hill
Lieut. John Flint James Haseltine
Lieut. Moses Barker Isaac Holden
Sgt. Peter Hunt Jeffery Hartwell
Sgt. Edward Farmer Daniel Hackett
Sgt. John Pushe John Hall
Sgt. Nathan Coburn James Karr
Corp. Ephraim Smith Abner Kent
Corp. Benjamin Patch John Lock
Corp. Ebenezer Sawyer Abraham Merrium
Moses Ames Oliver Perham
William Adams Ezra Porter
Asa Barker Joel Porter
Reuben Baldwin Ezra Porter, Jr.
John Baley Pomp Phillis
Thomas Brown Peter Parker
Eleazer Bartlett Isaac Powers
Timothy Bolton Peter Runnell
Joseph Barron Benjamin Sartwell
Simeon Cory Michael Sartwell
Joseph Dows Philip Spaulding
John Eaton Ebenezer Stone
Samuel Farmer William Whiting
James Green
Captain Josiah Sartell - Sawtell
Josiah Sartell, the 2nd son of Nathaniel & Mary
Sartell, was born, probably in England about the
year 1710. His father was an English mariner who
came to Groton from Charlestown, Mass. The son
married Mary Green - by which union there were
four children - two sons and two daughters, who
all died in their minority. They lived on Chicopee
Row, Groton.
p.27 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
At the time of his death, he willed to the town of
Groton, his homestead farm together with an adjoin-
ing one, besides some other property. The proceeds
arising from the sale of these lands, now form a
large part of the Groton Ministerial Fund.
The men of his Company for the most part, lived in
the northerly and easterly quarters of the town.
Captain Sartell was one of the Committee of Corres-
pondence for Groton, and during three years, (1775-
1778) was a member of the General Court of Massa-
chusetts.
About twenty-five years ago his gravestone was re-
moved from the old Burying Ground, Groton, to the
new cemetery; and the epitaph reads as follows:
JOSIAH SARTELL, ESQ.
Died August 30th, 1748, Aged
74. Mary Sartell, his widow,
Died March 30th, 1790, aged 80.
And their Children, who died in minor-
ity.
Nathaniel Sartell, Esq., his father, who
died January 16th, 1741, a ged 60. Abigail
Green, her sister, who died December 20th,
1790, aged 83 and other relations.
From Death's arrest no age is free.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Owing to the slight difference in surnames, there is
some confusion in regard to the Sartell and Sawtell
families formerly of Groton. I am inclined to think,
however, that they belonged to the same stock, and
that the variation in the name was simply a matter of
pronunciation.
p.28 GROTON, MASSSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
A Muster Roll of the several persons that marched from
Groton to Headquarters at Cambridge on the 19th day of
April, A.D. 1775, on the Alarm, under the command of
Captain Josiah Sartell.
NAME TITLE MILES TRAVELLED NUMBER OF DAYS.
Josiah Sartell Captain 70 17-1/2
Job Shattuck Lieutenant 70 16
Shattuck Blood Lieutenant 70 11
Benjamin Green Sergeant 70 14
Benjamin Lawrence Sergeant 70 19
Solomon Woods Sergeant 70 3
James Lawrence Sergeant 80 8
Jacob Patch Corporal 70 15
Jacob Parker Corporal 70 14
Jonathan Worster Corporal 70 16
Eleazer Spaulding Corporal 80 11
John Hugh Private 70 14
Caleb Woods Private 70 6
Jason Williams Private 70 14
Daniel Williams Private 70 15
James Sheple Private 70 17
Isaac Lawrence Private 70 12
Asa Porter Private 70 9
Joel Porter Private 70 9
John Sheple, Jr. Private 70 14
William Farwell Private 70 9
Oliver Lakin Private 70 14
Samuel Gragg Private 70 19
Nathaniel Woods Private 70 12
John Nutting, Jr. Private 70 12
Edmund Blood Private 70 14
John Hazen Private 70 11
Benjamin Hazen Private 70 14
John Lawrence Private 70 9
p.29 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Ezekiel Nutting Private 70 9
Samuel Worster Private 70 16
Francis Worster Private 70 9
Abraham Blood Private 70 14
Wm. Tuckerman Private 70 10
Daniel Woods Private 70 9
John Gragg Private 70 14
Peter Blood Private 70 14
James Blood, Jr. Private 70 5
David Lakin Private 70 11
Levi Parker Private 70 11
David Shead Private 80 14
John Shattuck Private 80 5
Jonathan Stevens Private 80 10
Jonathan Boyden Private 80 11
Jonathan Sheple Private 80 5
Wm. Spaulding Private 80 14
David Wright Private 80 9
Winslow Parker Private 70 9
Each person listed on this Roll bore his experience outand home
and whilst in camp, excepting two days allowance drew out of the
common store, so that no Inn-holders have any demands on the Colony
or person in this role. A true role, errors excepted - Josiah
Sartell, Captain.
Colony of the Massachusetts Bay, March 19, 1776. Captain Josiah
Sartell, above named, made solemn oath to the truth of the above
Roll, by himself subscribed, to the best of his knowledge.
Before Samuel Holten, Justice of the Peace through the
Colony.
Compared with the Original and therewith agrees.
Jonathan Turner, Committee
E. Starkweather, Comittee.
p.30 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
In Council, April 8th, 1776.
Read and allowed and thereupon Ordered that a warrant be drawn
on the Treasurer for £61.2.1 in full discharge of the within role.
John Lowell, Deputy Secretary. P.T.
Indorsed - Groton - Captain Josiah Sartell Roll Copy £61.2.1.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XIII. 89.)
CAPTAIN JOHN SAWTELL.
John Sawtell was the youngest child of Ephraim and Abigail
(Farnsworth) Sawtell, and was born on April 18, 1729. He died
on December 23, 1790. His epitaph in the old burying ground reads
as follows:
Erected
In Memory of
Captain John Sawtell
Who departed this Life
December ye 23d, AD 1790
Aged 61 Years, 8
Months and 5 Days.
The following notice among the list of Deaths in the "Daily Evening
Transcript" Boston, May 9, 1853, may give a clue as to his family:
East Salem, Washington County, New York - April 1, in his 88th
Year, Ebenezer Harris, a native of Brooklyn, Conn., his wife,
with whom he had lived in the married state for 68 years, was a
daughter of John Sawtell of Groton, Massachusetts, who fought at
the battle of Bunker Hill.
p.31 CAPTAIN JOHN SAWTELL
A muster roll of the Company in the Colony of the Massachusetts
Service, which marched from Groton & Pepperell on the 19th of
April, 1775, and was under the Command of Captain John Sawtell,
in Colonel James Prescott's Regiment.
TOWN MEN'S NAMES QUALITY MILES OUT & HOME DAYS IN SERVICE
Groton John Sawtell Capt. 60 20-1/2
Pepperell Thomas Wright Ensign 80 18
Pepperell Samuel Gilson - 80 11
Groton Thomas Farwell Sergeant 60 20-1/2
Groton Enoch Cook Sergeant 60 17-1/2
Pepperell Joseph Spaulding " 80 13
Groton John Fisk Corporal 60 12-1/2
Groton Asa Stone Corporal 60 12-1/2
Groton Amos Lawrence Private 60 20-1/2
Groton Zachary Longley Private 60 8-1/2
Groton Jonas Brooks Private 60 20-1/2
Groton Oliver Shed Private 60 12-1/2
Groton Reuben Fisk Private 60 17-1/2
Groton Jonas Stone Private 60 12-1/2
Groton Jonathan Tarbell " 60 12-1/2
Groton Levi Stone " 60 12-1/2
Groton Ebenezer Lowell " 60 8-1/2
Groton Joshua Chace " 60 8-1/2
Groton William Park " 60 20-1/2
Pepperell Moses Shattuck " 80 11
Groton Benjamin Amsden " 60 12-1/2
Groton Thomas Hubbard " 60 20-1/2
Groton Hezekiah Hubbard " 60 12-1/2
Groton James Davis " 60 12-1/2
Groton Nehemiah Parker " 60 12-1/2
Groton Thomas White " 60 20-1/2
Shirley Thomas Kilburn " 80 12-1/2
Groton John Peirce " 60 20-1/2
Pepperell Abel Spaulding " 80 13
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
p.32 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Pepperell Thomas Spaulding " 80 11
Pepperell Philip Shattuck " 80 11
Pepperell David White " 80 9
Groton Zacheus Farwell " 60 12-1/2
Pepperell Reuben Shattuck " 80 9
Groton Matthias Farnsworth " 60 20-1/2
Pepperell Joseph Shattuck 80 6
Pepperell Caleb Hubbard " 80 13
Pepperell Jonas Tarbell 80 13
Pepperell Joseph Egerton 80 16
Pepperell David Shattuck 80 6
Pepperell Elijah Ames 80 6
Pepperell Joseph Hall 80 6
Pepperell Levi Hubbard 80 6
Pepperell Isaiah Shattuck 80 6
Pepperell Nathaniel Write 80 6
Groton James Shipley 60 6
Pepperell Simon Gillson 80 9
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Colony of Massachusetts Bay - December 27, 1775.
John Sawtell made solemn Oath that this roll by
him subscribed, is just and true in all its parts.
Before me, Moses Gill, Justice of the Peace,
Through ye Province.
John Sawtell, Captain.
Compared with ye Original with which it agrees - E. Starkweather,
Committee
In Council, March 21st, 1776.
Read & allowed & ordered that a Warrant be drawn on the Treasury
for £59:11/9-1/4 in full of this Roll. Perez Morton, D. Secretary
A True Copy - G. Tailer.
Indorsed Copy Groton Captain John Sawtell Muster Roll £59:11/9-1/4.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary War Papers, XIII. 90.
p.33 CAPTAIN JOHN NUTTING.
The persons hereafter written marched to Cambridge on the
Alarm on the 19th of April, 1775, and were omitted in the
roll I exhibited:
Men's Names Privates No. of Miles No of days
in Service.
Jabez Holden " 60 4-1/2
Abijah Warren " 60 4-1/2
Asael Wyman " 60 4-1/2
Benjamin Farnsworth " 60 4-1/2
Matthias Farnsworth " 60 4-1/2
Simeon Brooks " 60 4-1/2
David Kemp " 60 3-1/2
William Parks " - 10
David Archibold " - 3-1/2
A True Copy John Sawtell, Captain
Middlesex ss May 6th, 1776.
John Sawtell, above named, made oath to the truth of
the aforegoing Roll.
Corpman, Oliver Prescott,
Justice of the Peace.
In Council, May 8th, 1776.
Read and allowed & ordered that a warrant be drawn on
the Treasurer for £4.12.6-1/4 in full lof the within
Roll. Perez Morton. D. Secretary.
Indorsed. Copy of Captain John Sawtell's minuteman roll
a 2d £4.12.6-1/4
Masssachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XIII.91.
CAPTAIN JOHN NUTTING
The towns of Groton and Pepperell, Massachusetts, dur-
in the Revolutionart period, were closely identified,
and the social intercourse between them was very inti-
mate. If the families of the two towns were not akin
to one another, in a certain sense, they were neighbors;
and for that reason, I include in this work, a
p.34 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
list of the Pepperell minute-men, commanded by John
Nutting, who distinguished themselves in the War.
Captain John Nutting was a brave officer, but like
many other military men of his day, a short time after
the Revolution, he became indoctrinated with political
heresies, and took an active part in promoting the
Shays' Rebellion. It is but fair, however, to say that
he was highly esteemed by his townsmen, who, to a large
extent sympathized with him in his views.
Captain Nutting lived in the northerly part of Pepper-
ell, near the Nissitissett River. By the upsetting of
a boat, he was drowned in that stream on May 25, 1816.
The two following epitaphs are to be seen in the old
Burying Ground, near the First Parish Meeting-House in
that town:
IN MEMORY
OF CAPTAIN JOHN NUTTING
WHO WAS DROWNED
MAY 25, 1816
AET 85 YRS.
TO THE MEMORY OF
Mrs. Martha Nutting
Wife of Captain John Nutting and only
Child of Mr. William & Mrs. Martha Blood
Who departed this life on the 26th of July,
1780 in the 44th Year of her age
This Stone is Erected.
p.35 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
A Muster Roll of Captain John Nutting's Company of Minute
Men in Colonel William Prescott's Regiment, who marched
from Pepperell ye 19th of April, 1775:
Name Town from whence he came Rank No. of miles Time of
coming & Go-
ing - Those
That
APRIL 19TH Returned.
John Nutting Pepperell Captain ..... 6 Days
Nathaniel Lakin Pepperell 1st Lieut. 6 Days
Abijah Boynton Pepperell 2nd Lieut. 80 miles 15 Days
John Mosher Pepperell Sergeant " 15 Days
Edmond Bancroft Pepperell Sergeant " 6 Days
William Tarbell Pepperell Sergeant " 11 Days
Nathaniel Sartell Pepperell Sergeant " 6 Days
Nathaniel Parker Pepperell Corporal " 6 Days
Josiah Newell Pepperell Corporal " 6 Days
Patrick White Pepperell Corporal " 10 Days
Thomas Fisk Pepperell Corporal " 16 Days
James Lakin Pepperell Drummer " 12 Days
David Tarbell Pepperll Private " 11 Days
Joseph Sanderson Pepperell Private " 22 Days
David Avery Pepperell Private " 9 Days
Elijah Shattuck Pepperell Private " 8 Days
Aaron Wood Pepperell Private " 15 Days
Jonathan Sheple Pepperell Private " 8 Days
Josiah Nutting Pepperell Private " 12 Days
Benjamin Nutting Pepperell Private " 12 Days
Oliver Newall Pepperell Private " 9 Days
Henry Woods Pepperell Private " 12 Days
Thomas Lawrence Pepperell Private " 6 Days
John Shattuck Pepperell Private " 22 Days
David Blood Pepperell Private " 15 Days
David Jewett Pepperell Private " 28 Days
Paul Dickerson Pepperell Private " 42 Days
Oliver Shattuck Pepperell Private " 6 Days
David Shattuck Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Abijah Mosher Pepperell Private " 5 Days
Gilbert Dickson Pepperell Private 6 Days
p.36 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTION.
APRIL 19TH
Elijah Ames Pepperell Private " 5 Days
Darius Hudson Pepperell Private " 10 Days
Silas Pierce Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Abijah Parker Pepperell Private " 6 Days
James Mosher Pepperell Private 6 Days
Ebenezer Nutting Pepperell Private " 6 Days
John Boynton Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Peter Perham Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Robinson Lakin Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Leonard Spaulding Fulham, VT Private " 5 Days
Jeremiah Shattuck Pepperell Private " 6 Days
John Chamberlin Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Samuel Cunmmings New Ipswich Private " 6 Days
George Abbott Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Abraham Boynton Pepperell Private " 6 Days
George Aldridge Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Moses Blood Pepperell Private April 23 2 Days
Joseph Chamberlain Pepperell Private " 2 Days
Isaac Chamberlain Chelmsford Private April 19 6 Days
Elias Dickey Raby Private " 6 Days
Hirum Dean Jeffery Private April 23 2 Days
Simeon Foster Groton Private April 19 6 Days
Nathan Fish Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Simon Green Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Martin Lawrence Peckersfield Private April 19 6 Days
Daniel Mosher Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Joshua Lawrence Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Francis Lee Pepperell Private " 6 Days
John Adams Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Thomas Lawrence, Jr. " Private " 6 Days
Ambrus Lakin Groton Private April 23 2 Days
Abner Michell Luninburgh Private April 19 6 Days
Samuel Nutting Pepperell Private " 6 Days
Winslow Parker Groton Private April 19 6 Days
p.37 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
BY DR. SAMUEL ABBOTT GREEN
CAPTAIN JOHN NUTTING.
Jonas Shattuck Pepperell Private April 19 80 miles 6 Days
Michael Sartell Pepperell Private " " 6 Days
Jonas Warren Pepperell Private " " 6 Days
James Tarbell Pepperell Private " " 6 Days
Isaac Williams Pepperell Private " " 6 Days
Joseph Whitney Pepperell Private " " 6 Days
Thomas Wetherebee " Private " " 6 Days
Ruben Spaulding " Private " " 6 Days
William Warren " Private " " 6 Days
Edmund Peerce Pepperell Private " " 6 Days
Wainright Fisk Pepperell Private " " 6 Days
Jeremiah Shattuck, Jr. " Private " 6 Days
Ebenezer Laughton " Private " 6 Days
Sampson Woods " Private " 6 Days
William Green " Private " " 6 Days
Andrew Brown " Private " " 12 Days.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
JOHN NUTTING, CAPTAIN.
Colony of Massachusetts Bay, March 15th, 1776.
John Nutting personally appeared and made Solemn Oath that this
that this role by him Subscribed is true in all its parts accord-
ing to the best of his knowledge.
Before Jabez Fisher, Justice of the Peace
through the Colony.
Examined and compared with the Original
E. Starkweather - Committee
Josiah Johnson - Committee
In Council, March 27th, 1776 - Read & Allowed and ordered that
a Warrant be drawn on the Treasury for 58.18.1 in full of said
roll. Perez Morton, D. Secretary.
Indorsed Copy Captain John Nutting's Role of Minute Men -
Pepperell £58-18-1.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XIII.22.
p.38 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
A return of Captain John Nutting's Company in Colonel
William Prescott's Regiment, October ye 6th, 1775.
Men's Names Place of Residence.
Simeon Forster Groton Sick, on furlow.
Ambros Lakin Groton Present.
Cambridge, October ye 2nd, 1775. John Nutting, Captain
Indorsed - Captain John Nutting's Company.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers. LVI. 67.
CAPTAIN HENRY HASKELL.
Henry Haskell commanded a military company that marched from
Shirley, Massachusetts on the ever-memorable Nineteenth.
For the Muster-roll, see Reverend Seth Chandler's History,
pp. 122, 123.
Technically, they were not Minute-men, as designated by Mr.
Chandler, and they are not so-called in the heading of the
roll; and furthermore, they belonged to Colonel James Pres-
cott's command, which was a militia regiment. The minute-
men of that period comprised only one-quarter of the en-
rolled militia, and in this neighborhood, they belonded to
Colonel William Prescott's command.
INSERT
COL. WILLIAM PRESCOTT COMMANDER OF THE AMERICAN FORCES AT BUNKER HILL
Source: Prescott Memorial
p.57
On the 16th of June l775 Gen. Artemus Ward the commander-in-chief issued an
order
for placing three Massachusetts regiments,
(Col. Prescott's, Col. Frye's and Col. Bridge's)
and one hundred and twenty men from a Connecticut regiment under the
brave Captain Knowlton, about one thousand in all, under the command of
Col. Prescott, directing him to proceed to Bunker Hill and
there erect a fortification.
The detachment started from Cambridge Common at dark, led by Col. Prescott
who proceeded silently to Bunker Hill, where the troops at about 11 o'clock
P.M.
commenced building the intrenchments as laid out by Col. Gridley and were not
dis-
covered until daylight next morning, June l7th, l775. The Americans,
although raw
troops, fought with the bavery and obstinacy of veterans until their
ammunition was
exhausted. Col. Prescott told General Ward the commander-in-chief that he
would
retake the place that night or perish if he would give him three regiments
with bayon-
nets and sufficient ammunition. But from prudential reasons it was declined".
Colonel Prescott continued in the service until the end of 1776. He was
stationed
at Governor's Island, NY until the Americans were obliged to retire from the
city.
In the autumn of 1777 he went as a volunteer, to assist in the capture of the
army
under General Burgoyne, which was his last military service. He was a member
of
the Provincial Congress that met at Salem.
Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth (whose ancestors, Benjamin Farnsworth and
Mary
Prescott were aunt and uncle to Col. William Prescott)
______________________________________________________________
The 20th Century Biographical Dictionary of Notable Americans, Vol.8, p.404
PRESCOTT, William, soldier, was born in Groton, Mass., Feb. 20, 1726; son of
Judge Benjamin Prescott; and great-grandson of John and Mary (Platts)
Prescott of Lincolnshire, England, who immigrated at an early date to
Lancaster, Mass. William Prescott removed to an unsettled tract of country
not far from his native town, and there established a settlement, which he
subsequently caused to be made into a township, and which he named in honor
of Sir William Pepperell, continuing to hold his estate under the original
Indian title. He served as a lieutenant in the colonial army, under Gen.
John Winslow, in the expedition against Cape Breton, 1754, and against
Acadia, 1755, and was promoted captain. In recognition of his gallantry he
was offered a commission in the regular army, but declined, returned to
Pepperroll, and was married to Abigail Hale. Their son, William Prescott
(1762-1844), Harvard, 1783, was a member of the governors' council for many
years, judge of the court of common pleas, Suffolk county, 1818-20, a
delegate to the state constitutional convention in 1820, a member of the
American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the father of William Hickling
Prescott, the historian. In August, 1774, Captain Prescott was active in
stimulating the resistance of his townsmen to royal authority, and soon
after was appointed colonel of a regiment of minute men, his commission
being signed by Gen. Joseph Warren. He proceeded to Lexington, April 19,
1775, but General Pitcairn having retreated before his arrival, he
continued a march to Cambridge, where he joined the provincial[ p.405]
army, the larger part of his regiment volunteering to serve with him. On
June 16, 1775, in command of three regiments he was ordered to construct
entrenchments on Bunker Hill, but instead selected Breed's Hill, in the
immediate vicinity. In the attack by Gen. William Howe, June 17, according
to Bancroft, Colonel Prescott appeared to have the entire command,
displaying great skill and bravery, and was among the last to submit to the
enforced retreat. In 1777 he resigned his commisson in the army, returning
to Pepperroll, but later in the same year enlisted as a volunteer in the
northern army under General Gates, in the campaign against Burgoyne. He was
a representative in the Massachusetts legislature for several years. He is
the author of: A Letter from a Veteran to the Officers of the Army Encamped
at Boston (1774). A statue was erected to his memory on Bunker Hill in 1881.
He died in Pepperroll, Mass., Oct. 13, 1795
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Surname: Prescott, William Colonel Line of Descent
Source: Prescott Memorial
p.4l
1. John Prescott founder of Lancaster, MA and his wife
Mary Gawkroger Platts. Their son:
p.47
l.10 Jonas Prescott and his wife Mary Loker of Groton
MA Their son:
p.48
l.10.12 Hon. Benjamin Prescott and his wife, Abigail
Oliver - Groton, MA - Their son:
p.57
1.10.12.4 Colonel William Prescott b. Feb 20, l726
m. l756/7 Abigail Hale of Sutton, Ma b.
l733 Res: Groton, MA (now Pepperell, MA
William Hickling Prescott.
Col. William Prescott held his lands as his son, the
Honorable William Prescott of Boston and his grandson, William
Hickling Prescott (author of the Prescott Memorial) continued
to hold the, under the original Indian title. And they
are still held under the same original title by William
G. Prescott, Esq. eldest son of William Hickling Prescott,
historian and author of the Prescott Memorial.
Col. William Prescott was a lieutenant in the Provincial
troops which were sent to remove the neutral French from
Nova Scotia in l755. After his return he married Agigail
Hale and was promoted to the office of captain. In l774
he was appointed colonelof a regiment of minute men
enrolled in Pepperell and vicinity. On receiving in-
telligence of the "regulars" (British) attack on Lex-
ington on the memorable l9th of April, l775, Col. Will-
iam Prescott immediately gave order for the company
in Pepperell and the company in Hollis, to march to
Groton, MA and thence to the scene of action, but,
arriving there before the Groton companies were ready,
they, after a short halt, proceeded on the way in ad-
vance of the Groton companies. Col. Prescott hastened
on, with as many of his regiment as he could collect, to
Concord and thence to Cambridge, but did not overtake
the retreating British troops. He and most of his men
enlisted for eight months, the period of the first en-
listment.
After his retirement from the army he served
the town as town clerk, selectman, representative to the
General Court (for three years) and was an acting
magistrate for the remainder of his life.
When Shay's rebellion broke out he hastened to Concord
and assisted in protecting the courts of justice and of
preserving law and order. In his person, he was tall,
with a large muscular frame, and his features strong and
indicative of intelligence. He was courteous and ben-
evolent, and possessed a strong mind. He d. Oct l3,
l795 aged 79 years, and 8 months and was buried with
military honors suitable to his rank, life and character.
He fell at a ripe old age, full of honors, and highly
esteemed and respected. His widow died Oct 2l, l82l
aged 88 years
p.75
Colonel William Prescott and his wife, Abigail Hale of
Pepperell, MA had issue:
1. Hon. William Prescott b. at Pepperell, Aug l9, l762
m. Dec l8, l793 Catherine Green Hicling dau of
Thomas Hickling, Esq. Consul of the US at the Island
of St. Michael. They were married 5l years and had
seven children between l795 and l806 listed p. l06
Their lst child was William Hickling b. May 4, l796
and the author of the Prescott Memorial. He m.
on his 24th birthday, Susan Amory dau of Thomas
Amory, Esq and Hannah Linzee, his wife. Their
four children listed p. l54.
p.59
footnotes: The British commander, Governor Gage viewed
the American works froman elevated position in Boston
(Copp's Hill) and called Abijah Willard a mandamus
councillor whose wife was a sister of Colonel Wm. Pres-
cott and Willard informed Gage he knew the commander
well as he was his brother-in-law. Gage asked "Will he
fight?" and Willard replied: "Yes, that man will fight
Hell and if his men are like him you will have a bloody
work, today".
Note: Col. William Prescott's father, the Hon. Benjamin
Prescott was brother to the oldest child of his parents
Mary Prescott who married Benjamin Farnsworth son of
Matthias Farnsworth, an original proprietor of Groton,
MA - Ancestors of Janice Farnsworth
Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
CAPTAIN HENRY HASKELL.
Henry Haskell commanded a military compay that marched
from Shirley, Massachusetts on the ever memorable 19th.
for the Muster Roll, see Reverend Seth Chandler's History.
pp. 122, 123.
Technically, they were not Minute-men, as designated by Mr.
Chandler, and they are not so-called in the heading of the
Roll; and furthermore, they belonged to Colonel James Pres-
cott's command, which was a militia regiment. The minute-
men of that period comprised only one-quarter of the en-
rolled militia, and in this neighborhood, they belonged to
Colonel William Prescott's command. It will be noticed that,
in the headings of the Muster-rolls, Captain Farwell's Com-
pany and Captain Lawrence's, are both styled "Minute-men,"
while Captain Sawtell's Company and Captain Sartell's, are
not so designated - showing that there was then a distinct-
ion between them. Captain John Nutting's Company from Pepper-
ell is also styled one of "minute-men;" while other companies
are designated as militia, and they were in Colonel James
Prescott's command. On that eventful day, there was room for
all, and the sturdy yeomanry thought more of the substance,
than of the sound. They may not have been enrolled as "Minute-
men, but when they were needed, they
p.39 CAPTAIN HENRY HASKELL.
marched to the scene of conflict all the same, and did a
patriot's duty. A few days after the beginning of the War,
the expression "minute-man" fell into disuse, and a soldier
was spoken of as belonging to the Massachusetts Line, or the
Continental Army, as the case might be.
In the year 1735, Captain Haskell's father came from Gloucest-
er and settled in that part of Harvard, Mass., which is now
known as Still River. At this time the son was about a year
old, and probably he was born at Gloucester, Mass.
Captain Haskell was thrice married: first, on January 6,
1757, to Rebecca Willard of Lancaster, who died on April 8,
1772; secondly, on December 1, 1772, to Martha Little, of
Lunenburg, Mass., who died on September 28, 1778; and thirdly,
to Charity Pratt, of Lancaster (published February 10, 1781),
who died in December, 1813. During his married life, ten
children were born to him. He owned and occupied a farm situ-
ated near the Shirley, Mass. Shakers; and his death took place
at Lancaster, Mass., on June 10, 1807.
In Lancaster, Henry Haskell, Esq., AET. 73; a Lieutenant
Colonel in the Revolutionary Army. "Columbian Centinel"
Boston, June 17, 1807.
On April 19, 1900, a monument was dedicated to the men of
Shirley, Massachusetts, who marched on April 19, 1775, under
the command of Captain Haskell, and to all others of that
town who took part in the War of American Independence.
The following Roll gives a list of the men in Captain Haskell's
Company, as it was at the beginning of the year 1776. Pre-
sumably it was formed largely on the lines of one that marched
on April 19th. As it contains so many Groton names, I print
the whole list.
p.40 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
CAMP AT CAMBRIDGE, MASS., JAN. YE 13TH, 1776.
A Roll of the Traveling Fees of Captain Henry Haskell's
Company of militia that Joined Colonel Prescott's Regiment.
Name Town Number of Miles.
Henry Haskell, Captain. Shirley 74
Job Shattuck, Lieut. Groton 70
Samuell Gilson, Lieut. Pepperell 80
Wallis Little Shirley 74
Peter Butterfield Townsend 84
Abner Whitcomb Groton 70
Elijah Wyman Townsend 84
Joseph Hail Pepperell 80
Isaac Patch Groton 70
Moses Warren Townsend 84
Solomon Peirce Townsend 84
John Tarball Groton 70
Thomas Wason Shirley 74
William Bolton Shirley 74
Amos Holdin Shirley 74
John Jupp Shirley 74
Thaddeus Harrington Shirley 74
Amos Dole Shirley 74
Ruben Kendall Shirley 74
Joseph Dodge Shirley 74
Jonathan Conant Shirley 74
Thomas Clark Shirley 74
Jonathan Lewis Pepperell 80
Daniel Turner Pepperell 80
John Scott Pepperell 80
Richard Stevens Pepperell 80
Shebuel Conant Pepperell 80
Abel Spalding Pepperell 80
Joel Hubart Pepperell 80
Eleazar Shattuck Pepperell 80
___________________________________________________
p.41 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
CAPTAIN HENRY HASKELL.
Benjamin Hudson Pepperell 80
Peter Blood Pepperell 80
Levi Woods Pepperell 80
John Gelson Pepperell 80
Moses Shattuck Pepperell 80
Nathaniel Woods Groton 70
Shattuck Blood Groton 70
David Lakin Groton 70
Benjamin Simson Groton 70
Amos Woods Groton 70
William Derumple Groton 70
Benjamin Green Groton 70
Phinehas Parker Groton 70
Nethaniel Lawrence Groton 70
James Adoms Groton 70
Benjamin Hazen Groton 70
Timothy Moors Groton 70
Isaac Warren Groton 70
Daniel Willard Groton 70
Samuel Kemp Groton 70
Amos Adoms Groton 70
Ebeneazer Lewis Groton 70
William Farwell Groton 70
John Fisk Groton 70
Ruben Cummings Groton 70
Levi Samson Groton 70
John Nichols Groton 70
Joseph Moors Groton 70
Silas Page Groton 70
John Fife Groton 70
John Lock Townsend 84
William Manning Townsend 84
Ebeneazer Ball Townsend 84
James Lock Townsend 84
p.42 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Hincheman Warren Townsend 84
James Patt Townsend 84
John Stevens Townsend 84
John Haskell Shirley 74
John Sherrin Townsend 84
Thomas Little Petersborough 130
_____________________________________________________
Henry Haskell, Captain.
Captain Haskell's Number 6 - Received of the Courts'
Committee, viz, Col. Lovell and Major Bliss, Seventy-
Two pounds, four shillings & two pence, in full of the
within Roll for our travel, to and from Headquarters at
the rate of one penny per mile. - Henry Hasell, Captain.
Indorsed - Captain Henry Haskell - Colonel William
Prescott's Regiment - 1776 - Camp at Cambridge, Mass.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XIX. 170.
CAPTAIN JOSEPH MOORS.
Joseph Moors, the youngest child of Abraham & Elizabeth
(Gilson) Moors, was born at Groton on May 30, 1738. In the
campaign of 1758, he served in the siege and capture of
Louisburg, and on March 4, 1772, was commissioned as Adju-
tant in Colonel James Prescott's regiment, and, on March
9, 1774, as Cornet in Captain Benjamin Bancroft's Company
of troopers in the sme regiment. He commanded a company
at the Battle of Bunker Hill, and, on January 1, 1776, he
was commissioned by the Continental Congress as Captain
of a company in Colonel William Prescott's regiment. After
his return from the army, he settled on his paternal estate,
and carried on the farm where he was born. It is situated
on the road leading from the Groton School to Ayer. During
a long life, respected both by his neighbors and townsmen,
p.43 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Samuel Abbott Green.
he filled many positions of trust and responsibility among
them, and for nine years he represented the Town of Groton
in the General Court.
On July 22, 1761, Captain Moors was married to Lucy Stone,
the fifth child of David & Elizabeth Stone, who died on
August 26, 1773, in the thirty-third year of her age,
according to her epitaph; and he m. (2) to Sarah, the
elder daughter of Samuel & Miriam (Morse) Ward of Natick,
who was born on November 25, 1751 and died at Groton, on
April 15, 1822, aged seventy years. He died on July 25,
1820, aged eighty-two years.
A Muster Roll of the Company under the Command of Captain
Joseph Moors in Colonel William Prescott's Regiment, to
the 1st of August, 1775.
Name Towns whence Rank Time of Time of
they came. Inlistment Travell Service.
____________________________________________________________
Joseph Moors Groton Captain May 10th 35 miles 83 Days
Zach'r Walker Merimack 1st Lieut Apr 24th 45 miles 99 Days
Isaac Dodge Groton 2nd Lieut May 10th 35 miles 83 days
Phin. Hemingway Groton Sergeant Apr 23rd 35 miles 98 days
William McCluer Merimack Sergeant Apr 28th 45 miles 95 days
Timothy Woods Groton Sergeant May 20th 35 miles 73 days
Thomas Bigsby Leechfld Sergeant Apr 28th 45 miles 95 days
Ephraim Warren Shirley Corporal May 18th 40 miles 75 days
Silas Davis Shirley Corporal May 17th 40 miles 75 days
Joseph Taylor Groton Corporal May 21st 35 miles 72 days
David Willson Shirley Corporal May 25th 40 miles 68 days
Sam Farnsworth Groton Drummer May 15th 35 miles 78 days
Peter Davis Lun'burg Private April 30 45 miles 93 days
Thom. Colven Groton Private May 20th 35 miles 73 days
Wm. Spalden Raby Private Apr 28th 55 miles 95 days
Jos. Moors Jr. Groton Private May 20th 35 miles 73 days
Oliver Tarbell Groton Private May 23rd 35 miles 70 days
Samuel Conroy Hollis Private Apr 28th 40 miles 95 days
Abrhm Ireland Luninbgh Private May 20th 45 miles 73 days
John Jacobs Merimack Private Apr 28th 45 miles 95 days
Jonas Proctor Groton Private May 27th 35 miles 66 days
Leonard Taylor Groton Private Apr 24th 35 miles 98 days
p.44 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Phinehas Kemp Groton Private May 27th 35 miles 66 days
Joseph Kemp Groton Private May 25th 35 miles 68 days
Asa Danforth Billerica Private Apr 28th 20 miles 95 days
Silas Roby Merimack Private Apr 27th 45 miles 96 days
James Mack Merimack Private Apr 28th 45 miles 95 days
Wm Spalden Jr Raby Private Apr 29th 55 miles 94 days
Jos.Taylor Jr. Groton Private Apr 28th 35 miles 95 days
Rob McCormack Merimack Private Apr 25th 45 miles 95 days
Ebenezer Hill Merimack Private Apr 25th 45 miles 95 days
John Clough Plymouth Private Apr 28th 130 miles 95 days
Jason Hassell Merimack Private Apr 28th 45 miles 95 days
John Combs Merimack Private Apr 28th 45 miles 95 days
Zebediah Wool Luninburg Private May 20th 45 miles 73 days
Ebenezer Perkens Petersburg Pvt Apr 28th 65 miles 95 days
Phinehas Whitney Harvard Private May 19th 35 miles 74 days
Daniel Page Shirley Private May 19th 40 miles 74 days
Daniel Keizer Shirley Private May 17th 40 miles 76 days
David Archibald Groton Private May 17th 35 miles 76 days
Wm. Lesley Groton Private May 20th 35 miles 73 days
Zac Longley Groton Private May 20th 35 miles 73 days
Abel Amsden Groton Private May 20th 35 miles 73 days
Wm. Cawin Merrimack Private Apr 28th 45 miles 95 days
John Sawtell New Ipswich Artorfish Apr 24 55 miles 98 days
Samuel Wright Hollis Private Apr 28th 40 miles 95 days
Amos Fiske Groton Private May 35 miles 26 days
Tom Colbourn Dunstable Private April 28th 40 miles 51 days
Eben Youngman Dunstable Private April 28th 40 miles 51 days
COPY.
In Council, February 13th, 1776.
Read & Ordered that a Warrant pass on the Treasurer for the sum
of 201-11-9-3 in full discharge of the above roll - Perez Morton,
D. Secretary.
Note: Heminghway mistake not rectified.
(Indorsed) Captain Joseph Mores Roll in Colonel Prescott's Reg't
£201:11:9-1/4.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XV. 70)
p.45 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Near the end of the Muster-Roll of Captain Moors's Company,
printed on the opposite page, is the name of Amos Fisk, within
brackets. It was inserted by me (Samuel Abbott Green) in the
manuscript, so long ago that I have forgotten my authority for
doing so. In the original roll at the State House, the name was
written where a fold in the paper afterward came, and unfortu-
nately it is now entirely gone. Whoever the man was, he did only
26 days' service from a date in the month of May, and drops out
of the company on or near June 17th.
The two men following his name on the roll are known to have
been killed in the battle; and one Amos Fisk was captured in
the fight and died in Boston jail during the early part of Aug-
ust. His death is recorded in "A Journal kept by John Leach,
during his confinement by the British, in Boston gaol, in 1775,"
which appears in "The New England Historical & Genealogical
Register" (XIX.258) for July, 1865. He is mentioned also in a
list of prisoners taken at the battle of Bunker Hill, which is
printed in "The New England Chronicle: or, The Essex Gazette"
(Cambridge), September 14, 1775. In this list his Christian name
is given as "Amasa," and he is put down as from Pepperell. Perhaps
he was Amos, a son of Josiah & Sarah Fisk, who was born on May 12,
1739, in that part of Groton which is now Pepperell. At the date
of his birth, there was no town of Pepperell, for it hadnt yet
been separated from Groton. The number of miles of travel accredit-
ed to him on the roll would seem to indicate that he was living in
Groton at the time of his enlistment. My authority for inserting
the name in the Muster-Roll was entirely independent of the reasons
here given, which are now recited in order to show their probability.
The number of soldiers from Groton, who were either killed at the
Battle of Bunker Hill, or died from their wounds, was twelve,
a greater number than that from any other town; and the Memorial
Tablets placed on Winthrop Square in Charlestown, by the City of
Boston, on June 17, 1889, are my authority for the statement. They
were serving in five different companies of Colonel Prescott's
Regiment.
p.46 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
A Return of Captain Joseph Moors Company In Colonel William
Precott's Regiment - October 6, 1775.
Captain Joseph Moors - Groton.
Lieutenant Zachariah Walker - Merrimac.
Lieutenant Isaac Dodge - Groton.
________________________________
Phinehas Hemingway Groton
William McCluen Present Merrimac
Timothy Woods Present Groton
Thomas Bixby Present Litchfield
_________________________________
Scilias Davis Present Shirley
David Wilson Present Shirley
Ephraim Warren Present Shirley
Joseph Taylor, Jr. Present Groton
_________________________________
Drummer - Samuel Farnsworth - Present Groton.
Insert: Samuel Farnsworth, Drummer
Samuel, b. 1750; m. Anna Wasson, b. 1751; d. 1842; he d.
1831. He was a drummer at the battle of Bunker Hill and
was a pensioner of the government for services rendered in
that war. He was residing at that time with his father at
Hollis, NH; he moved to Stoddard, NH and from there to
Eaton, Lower Canada in 1799. Source: History of the Old
Fort No. 4, N.H. founded by three Farnsworth brothers from
Groton, Mass. (also, The Farnsworth Memorial)
_________________________________
p.46 - continued - Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Peter Davis Present Lunenburg
Thomas Calvin Present Groton
William Spalding Present Raby
Joseph Moors, Jr. Present Groton
Samuel Controy Present Hollis, N.H.
Oliver Tarbell Present Groton
Abraham Ireland, Jr. Present Lunenburg
John Jacobs Present Merrimac, N.H.
Jonas Proctor Present Groton
Leonard Taylor Present Groton
Joseph Kemp Present Groton
Asa Danforth Present Groton
Phinehas Kemp Present Groton
Asa Danforth Present Billerica
Silas Roby Present Merrimac, N.H.
Wm. Spalding, Jr. On Command Raby
Joseph Taylor Sick in Camp Groton
______________________________________________
p.47 GROTON MEN ENLISTED ELSEWHERE.
Sgt. Benjamin Prescott Killed June 17, 1775 Bunker Hill - Groton.
_______________________
Insert:
p.74 - Prescott Memorial. Descendants of John Prescott, founder
of Lancaster, Mass.
Benjamin Prescott, the son of the Honorable James Prescott and
his wife, Susan Lawrence. Benjamin Prescott was born April 15,
1753. He was killed at the battle of Bunker Hill on June 17,
1775. Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth. The full book, The
Prescott Memorial - sent on request to me - farns10th@aol.com.
_____________________
p.47 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Ebenezer Youngman Killed June 17, 1775 at Bunker Hill,
Groton.
Thomas Colburn Killed June 17, 1775 at Bunker Hill, was
from Dunstable, Mass.
Signed Zaccheus Walker, Lieutenant.
Indorsed: The Return of Captain Moors' Company, Oct. 6, 1775.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, LVI p.65
The following Lists are taken from various Returns among the
Massachusetts State Archives and give the names of Groton men
who served at the beginning of the Revolution, in several
military companies raised in that neighborhood.
CAPTAIN ROBERT LONGLEY.
Captain Robert Longley was of Bolton (once a part of Lancaster)
Massachusetts. He raised a military company for the most part
belonging to in Bolton.
A MUSTER ROLL
CAPTAIN ROBERT LONGLEY'S COMPANY
The Company under the command of Captain
Robert Longley, in Colonel Asa Whitcomb's Regi-
ment, to the first of August, 1775.
Names Town Rank Inlistment Travel Time of Service.
Caleb Blood Groton Private April 29 36 3 mos. 10 days.
Jonas Sawtell Groton Private April 29 30 3 mos. 10 days.
Copy attest - Jabez Fisher.
In Council, January 18, 1776, Read and allowed & thereupon endorsed,
ordered that a warrant be drawn on the Treasury for £274.8.9 in
full, of the within Role. John Lowell, Deputy
Secretary, P.T.
Indorsed: Captain Robert Longley, Colonel Whetcomb's Regiment, 274
8 - 9.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers. XV. 58
p.48 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
A Return of Captain Longley's Company from Bolton, Mass., in
Colonel Asa Whitcomb's Regiment - October, 1775.
. Caleb Blood Groton
. Jonas Sawtell Groton
(signed) Robert Longley, Captain.
Indorsed: Capt. Longley's Return.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, LVI. 144.
Captain Abijah Child's Company in the 37th Regiment of Foot
in the Continental Army, Commanded by Lt. Col. William Bond.
John Pierce of Groton
Camp, Prospect Hill, October 6, 1775.
Indorsed: Captain Child Abijah Child, Captain.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, LVI. 251.
Captain Peter Coburn lived in Dracut, Mass., and raised a
company belonging largely in Dracut.
Return of Captain Peter Coburn in Colonel Bridge's Regiment
September 26th, 1775.
Tobias Briggs of Groton.
Ebenezer Varnum, 2d Lieut.
Indorsed: Captain Peter Coburn.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers. LVI. 182.
p.49 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
A Return of the Men's Names, last residence, present or absent,
etc. belonging to Ephraim Corey's Company in Col. Prescott's
Regiment.
Sgt. Abel Parker Groton Present.
Corp. Oliver Laken Groton Present.
Corp. John Parker Groton Present.
MEN'S NAMES RESIDENCE CASUALTIES.
Benjamin Bennett Groton Present - Sick.
Jonathan Davis Groton Sick.
Robert Parker, Jr. Groton Present.
Benjamin Parker Groton Present.
John Whitney Groton Present.
Abner Whitney Groton Present.
Chambers Corey Groton Killed June 17 on Bunker
Hill.
Robert Parker Groton Discharged Sept 23, 1775
by Major Moyland.
Cambridge, Massachusetts. 1775.
Indorsed by the late Captain Parker and Capt. Ephraim
Corey.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, LVI. 64.
Captain Thomas Wait Foster, was of Hadley, Mass., and he had
two Groton men in his Company:
A Return of Captain Thomas Wait, Foster's Company of Artillery
in the Honorable Richard Gridley's Regiment.
Name Where From.
Aaron Bigelow Groton
Dudley kemp Groton
October, 1775.
Indorsed - Captain Thomas W. Foster.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers. LVI. 271.
p. 50 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green
Captain Samuel Gilbert was of Littleton, Mass., and he had one
Groton, Mass. man in his company:
Cambridge, Mass., Sept. ye 28th, 1775.
A Return of Captain Samuel Gilbert's Company in Colonel William
Prescott's Regiment, agreeable to the Orders of the 24th Instant.
Men's Names Place of Residence
Thomas Baker Groton
Indorsed - Samuel Gilbert, Captain.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, LVI.62
Captain Joshua Parker belonged to Westford, Mass., where for the
most part of his company was recruited. Westford, Mass. was once
a part of Groton, Massachusetts.
A Return of Captain Joshua Parker's Company, in the 10th Regi-
ment of foot, commanded by Colonel William Prescott - containing
their names, time of entrance, where resident, date of death -
where, if on command, and, or when discharged.
PRIVATES.
MEN NAMES ENTRANCE DATE RESIDENT WHEN DIED OR DISCHARGED
David Kemp April 27th Groton Was taken captive & died
at Boston, Sept. 10th.
Peter Fisk April 27th Groton Killed in battle June 17.
Lt. Ameziah
Fassett April 19th Groton Taken captive June 17.
Died at Boston, July 5th.
This is to Certify that these men, above named, entered the ser-
vice with me at the time set down, against their respective names
and from the different towns signified - in the same manner of
both, effective and unaffective, of my Company and the time of
the deceased in in the like manner signified.
(signed) Captain Joshua Parker.
Indorsed. A return of Captain Joshua Parker's Company in the
Tenth Regiment of Foot, Commanded by Colonel William Prescott,
Esquire, September 27th, 1775.
Massachusetts Archives - Revolutionary Papers. p.70
Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth - to be continued, p. 51
p.51 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
CAPTAIN ZECHARIAH FITCH.
Captain Abijah Wyman was of Ashby, Mass., where he recruited
a Company.
A Return of the Names of the Officers & Men Belonging to Capt.
Abijah Wyman's Company, in Colonel William Prescott's Regiment:
Daniel Gilson Groton Corporal
Cambridge, October 3, 1775.
Isaac Brown, Lieut.
Indorsed - Captain Wyman.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, LVI.66.
CAPTAIN ZECHARIAH FITCH.
Zechariah Fitch was the eldest child of Zechariah and Elizabeth
(Grimes) Fitch, and she was born at Bedford, Mass., on April 1,
1734. Zechariah Fitch married (1) Rebekah Davis, the eldest
daughter of Eleazer & Rebecca (Chandler) Davis, who was born
on August 2, 1736. After their marriage they settled in Groton,
Mass. By this union there were two daughters, of whom Abigail
Fitch, probably the younger, was born in the year 1761. Neither
the first wife nor the second wife lived a long time after marri-
age, as it is entered in the Groton Church Records, under date
of August 4, 1763, "Zechariah Fitch of Groton married to Lydia
Tuck of Bedford, Mass." And again, under date of February 3,
1767, "Zechariah Fitch married to Sibele Lakin, both of Groton."
By the 2nd marriage there were two sons - Richard Fitch, born
October 25, 1763, and Joseph Fitch, born February 13, 1766. His
third wife, the widow, Mrs. Sibyl (Lakin) Fitch, was a daughter
of John Lakin and wife, Lydia (Parker) Lakin, born on October
16, 1739 and she died October 11, 1806. By her there were four
sons and three daughters. Late in life, on May 11, 1809, Captain
Fitch m. (3) at Pepperell, Mass., to of Littleton, Mass., as his
fourth wife - who died on January 5, 1823. His father was a
younger brother of John Fitch, from whom the city of Fitchburg
takes its name.
p.52 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
According to traditon, Captain Fitch was a fine looking man,
tall, straight and well-proportioned, who wore short clothes
set off with knee-buckles and shoe-buckles, as was common in
those days.
The sword of Captain Fitch.
The sword carried by Capt. Zachariah Fitch, in the Revolutionary
War, was given to the Groton Historical Society by his venerable
grandaughter, Mrs. Amelia Fitch Rowe, on October 2, 1894; and
his commission as Captain, also given by her, on October 1, 1898.
FITCH'S BRIDGE.
Fitch's Bridge, over the Nashua River, near his farm, takes its
name from him.
A note-book kept by him, is printed in the "Groton Historical
Series" (IV. 378-385), which gives a few facts concerning the
itineray of his company, from Groton to Fort Ticonderoga and
thence back home again to Groton.
In the book he writes: "August ye 3rd, 1776, I received my
commission ye 21st. I received orders to march as soon as
possible to Bennington - ye 28th I marched from Groton," etc.
This note-book I bought a long time ago at a junk shop in
Boston.
Within two or three years Mrs. Rowe, has given me some in-
teresting documents relating to her grandfather's company.
Among them are several Pay-rolls with the names of the men,
which are not found elsewhere, besides other manuscript
papers printed below.
A Roll of Captain Zachariah Fitches Company in Colonel
Samuel Brewers Regiment for their mileage September the
18th, 1776.
________________________________________________________
Officers & Men No. Miles Amt.at 1d pr Amt. of 1 days'
mile. day's pay for
every 20 miles.
Cpt. Zacheriah Fitch 128 0-10-8 1 - 14 - 0
1st Lt. Nathan Stow 147 0-12-3 1 - 12 - 0
2nd Lt. Josiah Bowers 147 0-12-3 1 - 12 - 0
Ens. Nehemiah Blodget 141 0-11-9 18 8
_____________________________________
563 20 6-11 5 - 16 - 8
p.53 CAPTAIN ZECHARIAH FITCH
Sgt. Abijah Mead 151 0-12-7 0 - 11 - 10
Sgt. Levi Fletcher 137 0-11-5 0 - 10 - 0
Sgt. John Scott 148 0-12-4 0 - 11 - 4
Sgt. Silas Foster 140 0-11-8 0 - 11 - 1
______________________________________
576 2-08-0 2 - 4 - 3
Corp. Zebediah Farrer 151 0-12-7 0 - 10 - 6
Corp. Isaac Corey 155 0-12-11 0 - 11 - 0
Corp. Joseph Lawrence 132 0-11-0 0 - 9 - 3
Corp. Zacheus Richardson 153 0-12-9 0 - 10 - 6
Drummer Jona'n Hamblet 148 0-12-4 0 - 10 - 6
Fifer Benjamin Hazen 128 0-12-4 0 - 10 - 6
_____________________________________
867 3-12-3 3 - 1 -
______________________________________________________________
Ebenezer White 140 0-11-8 0 - 9 - 4
Simon Hunt 140 0-11-8 0 - 9 - 4
Ephraim Forbush 140 0-11-8 0 - 9 - 4
Daniel Billings 151 0-12-7 0 - 10 - 1
Abel Adams 151 0-12-7 0 - 10 - 1
Henry Bond 155 0-12-11 0 - 10 - 4
Samuel Train 155 0-12-11 0 - 10 - 4
William Graves 155 0-12-11 0 - 10 - 4
Aaron Wright 147 0-12-03 0 - 9 - 9
David Evens 155 0-12-11 0 - 10 - 4
Amos Stow, Jr. 147 0-12-03 0 9 - 9
Samuel Jewel 147 0-12-03 0 - 9 - 9
William Gammel 147 0-12-03 0 - 9 - 9
Richard Hay 147 0-12-03 0 - 9 - 9
Thaddeus Garfield 155 0-12-11 0 - 10 - 4
Peter Sterns 147 0-12-11 0 - 10 - 4
Peter Sterns 147 0-12-03 0 - 09 - 9
Stephen Blood, Jr. 147 0-12-03 0 - 09 - 9
Francis Lagros 147 0-12-03 0 - 09 - 9
_____________________________________________________________
p.54 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Officers & Men No.Miles Amt at 1d pr mile Amt of 1 days'
Pay, every 20
miles
-----------------------------------------------------------
Thomas Haseltine 132 11 - 0 8 5
Ephraim Nash 128 10 - 8 8 5
Amos Addams 128 10 - 8 8 5
James Fletcher 137 11 - 5 9 0
Samuel Kemp, Jr. 128 10 - 8 8 5
Nathaniel Cutter 140 11 - 8 9 4
Amos Foster, Jr. 148 12 - 4 9 10
John Simons 128 10 - 8 8 5
Jonathan Stephens 128 10 - 8 8 5
John Laughton 128 10 - 8 8 5
David Lakin 128 10 - 8 8 5
James Addams 128 10 - 8 8 5
Peter Butterfield 132 11 - 0 8 6
Ephraim Brown 132 11 - 0 8 6
Person Eaton 132 11 - 0 8 6
Job Dodge 138 11 - 6 9 0
Timothy Baker 138 11 - 6 9 0
Daniel Wheat 147 12 - 3 9 9
John Eaton 138 11 - 6 9 0
Joseph Saunderson 132 11 - 0 9 0
Oliver Green 132 11 - 0 8 6
Thomas Spaulding 132 11 - 0 8 6
Jonas Haseltine 132 11 - 0 8 6
John Dennis 137 11 - 5 9 0
John Pushee 138 11 - 6 9 0
Abner Kent, Jr. 137 11 - 5 9 0
Joel Prescott 137 11 - 5 9 0
Daniel Haywood 147 12 - 3 9 8
Ebenezer Stone 146 12 - 2 9 7
Thomas Dutton 146 12 - 2 9 7
William Cambell 141 11 - 9 9 4
Samson Walker 141 11 - 9 9 4
Jonathan Bickford 141 11 - 9 9 4
Jonathan Taylor 148 12 - 4 9 10
__________________________________________________________
p.55 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
CAPTAIN ZECHARIAH FITCH.
OFFICERS & MEN NO.MILES Amount @ 1d pr mile Amt 1 day's
Pay for every
20 miles
______________________________________________________________
Nathaniel Haywood 148 12 4 9 10
Zebulin Butmon 148 12 4 9 10
William Clough 148 12 4 9 10
John Wright 147 12 3 9 9
Timothy Crosby 147 12 3 9 9
John Senter 147 12 3 9 9
John Emery 141 11 9 9 4
Jacob Durant 148 12 4 9 10
Phillip Smith 141 11 9 9 4
Elias MacEntire 147 12 3 9 9
Elnathan Sherrin 147 12 3 9 9
Josiah Fox 148 12 4 9 10
Joseph Taylor 147 12 3 9 9
Caeser Robins 141 11 9 9 4
Bristol Commings 147 12 3 9 9
Benjamin Bowers 147 12 3 9 9
Joseph Asgood 153 12 9 10 0
_____________________________________________________________
Indorsed A Milage Pay Roll Captain Fitch's Abstract.
Mount Hope or Tie Mills, Sept. 24, 1776.
We the subscribers, Officers & Soldiers belonging to Capt.
Zachariah Fitches Company, Col. Samuel Brewers Regiment, have
Received in full our miliage & one day's pay for every twenty
miles to Bennington of Captain Zachariah Fitch.
Nathan Stow Zacheus Richardson James Fletcher
Josiah Bowers, Jr. Amos Foster William Graves
Nehemiah Blodget Zeb'n Farrar John Dennis
Peason Eaton Joseph Lawrance John Emery
John Eaton Ephraim Forbush Nathaniel Cutter
Thaddeus Garfield Amos Adams Bradbury Robinson
John Simonds Levi Fletcher Jonathan Stevens.
p.56 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Joseph Taylor Joel Prescott John Senter
Oliver Green Jonathan Bickford Timothy Crosby
Samson Walker Jacob DURUNT Benjamin Bowers
John Pushe David Evans Daniel Billings
Timothy Baker Elias MacIntire Jonathan Taylor
William Clough Francis LaGrosse Joseph Osgood
Ephraim Nash Benjamin Hazen Aaron Wright
Job Dodge Ephraim Brown Nathaniel Heywood
Philip Smith Daniel Hayward Bristol X Coming
Silas Foster Thomas Dutton (his mark)
Samuel Kemp, Jr. Ebenezer Stone Jonas Haseltine
John Laughton John Wright Thomas Hasseltine
David Lakin William Campbell Joseph Sanderson
Abner Kent, Jr. Zebulon Butman William Gammell
Abijah Mead Elnathan Sherwin James Adams
Ebenezer White Jonathan Hamblet Thomas Spaulding
John Scott Isaac Cory Ceasar Robins
Daniel Wheat Peter Butterfield Richard Hay
Amos Stow Abel Adams Samuel Jewel
Peter Stearns Josiah Fox.
Number of Names 28 Number of names 25
James Adams Received One Dollar. Indorsed. Soldiers Receipts.
T. Mills, 8th October, 1776.
We the subscribers, officers and soldiers belonging to Captain
Zechariah Fitche's Company, Colonel Samuel Brewer's Regiment
have received the full of our pay up to the 30th of September,
1776.
Nathan Stow Daniel Wheat Ephraim Forbush
Josiah Bowers Thaddeus Garfield Abijah Mead
Nehemiah Blodget James Adams Job Dodge
Aaron Wright David Evans
Amos Adams John Dennis Simon Hunt
Ephraim Nash Oliver Green Peter Stearns
John Pushee Benjamin Hazen Calvin Ransom
Levi Fletcher Joseph Osgood Francis Lagros (his mark)
Nathaniel Cutter, his mark Jonathan Stevens Samuel Jewel
p.57 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Joel Prescott Abner Kent John Emery
Benjamin Bowers John Scott Eben White
Zacheus Richardson William Campbell Josiah Fox
Jonathan Bickford Thomas Spaulding Zebulon Butman
Samson Walker Ephraim Brown Zebediah Farrar
Ephraim Brown Caeser Robbins Nathaniel Heywood
Timothy Baker Elias MacEntire Thomas Dutton
Bristol Comming Ebenezer Stone Jonas Hazeltine
David Lakin Thomas Hazeltine Amos Foster
Jonathan Taylor Peason Eaton William Graves
John Eaton John Simonds Jonathan Hamblet
John Senter William Clough Samuel Kemp, Jr.
Bradbery Robinson Abel Adams Peter Butterfield
Joseph Sanderson Daniel Hayward Elnathan Sherwin
Timothy Crosby Isaac Cory Amos Stow
John Laughton Henry Bond William Gammell
Richard Hay Joseph Lawrance Silas Foster
Number of names - 32 Number 31
Indorsed - Soldier's Receipts.
Groton, December 22, 1776.
We the subscribers, officers and soldiers, acknowledge that
we have received the whole of our wages and rations of every
kind whatsoever for our service in the United States under
Captain Zachariah Fitch, in Colonel Samuel Brewer's Regiment.
Joel Prescott Amos Adams Nehemiah Blodgett
John Simonds Isaac Cory Josiah Bowers
Ephraim Nash Samuel Kemp, Jr. Joseph Osgood
Bradbery Robinson Joseph Lawrence Nathaniel Cutter
Zebulon Butman Ephraim Brown
p.58 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Thomas Hazelton Joseph Taylor, Jr. Thomas Hazeltine
John Dennis Levi Fletcher Josiah Fox
Peason Eaton Jonathan Taylor John Eaton
Nathaniel Cutter Thomas Spaulding Ephraim Nash
Abner Kent Zebediah Farrar Ebenezer Stone
William Campbell Benjamin Hazen Samson Walker
John Laughton Jonathan Bickford Job Dodge
Samuel Jewel David Evans Peter Butterfield
Jonathan Hamblet Henry Bond Abijah Mead
Daniel Hayward Abel Adams Oliver Green
John Scott Simon Hunt John Dennis
Simon Hunt, Jr. Silas Foster Joel Prescott
Aaron Wright Jacob Deverent John Emery
Amos Stow, Jr. Nathaniel Heywood Bristol Cummens
Elnathan Sherwin Benjamin Bowers David Lakin
Timothy Crosby Ephraim Forbush John Wright
Timothy Baker James Adams
The Names of Those That Have Received Their Pay by Sending
Orders.
Benjamin Bowers Zacheus Richardson Elias MacKintire
Thomas Crosby Ceasar Robins Jonathan Stevens
Nathaniel Cutter Peter Stearns John Pushie
Joseph Sanderson Daniel Wheat Phillip Smith
William Clough William Gamell Philip Smith
Calvin Ransom Abel Adams Francis Lagros
William Graves Daniel Billings Thaddeus Garfield
Amos Foster Lovell Spalding John Senter
Lieut. Nathan Stow.
Indorsed: Soldier's Receipts
p.59 CAPTAIN ZECHARIAH FITCH.
On p.45, reference is made to a list of prisoners taken at the
battle of Bunker Hill, on June 17 - which is printed in "The
New England Chronicle: or, The Essex Gazette" (Cambridge),
September 14, 1775. Partly for the convenience of the reader,
I copy the names of those persons who belonged in this neigh-
borhood, as follows:
Lieutenant Colonel Parker Chelmsford Dead
Capt. Benjamin Walker Chelmsford Dead
Lt. Amaziah Fosset Groton Dead
Sgt. Robert Phelps Lancaster Dead
Oliver Stevens Townsend Dead
Amasa Fisk Pepperell Dead
Archibald McIntosh Townsend Dead
David Kemp Groton Dead
James Dodge Edenburgh, Scotland Dead
Stephen Foster Groton Dead
Lieut. Amaziah Fassett of Groton, an officer in the Westford
Massachusetts Company, died on July 5, 1775 in a Boston jail,
where these prisoners were confined. Amasa Fisk was un-
doubtedly Amos Fisk who is mentioned on p.45. Without doubt,
James Dodge "of Edenburgh, Scotland," was identical with
James Dodge of Captain Asa Lawrence's company, who was taken
prisoner on June 17, 1775 and died in Boston.
The following Resolve is of interest, as it was passed only
four days after the breaking out of hostilities. A few manu-
script alterations of certain figures appear in the text of
the original broadside, which in the copy are indicated within
brackets. Such changes were added, in order to make the Resolve
conform to several amendments passed by the Provincial Congress
on April 25th.
It was voted on April 24th that 300 copies of this Resolve
be printed in handbills, from one of which the copy given
below is made. See "The Journals of each Provincial Congress
of Massachusetts in 1774 and 1775" - Boston, 1838.
p.60 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
In Provincial Congress at Watertown, Massachusetts, April 23,
1775.
Resolved, that the following establishment of forces now
immediately to be raised for the recovery and preservation
of our undoubted Rights and Liberties, be as follows, viz.
per month.
To each colonel of a regiment of 1000 (590) men £ 15 0 0
To a first Lieut. Colonel of such regiment 12 0 0
To a Major of such regiment 10 0 0
For a Captain of 100 men, including officers 6 0 0
For 2nd Lieutenants for such company, each 4 0 0
For one Ensign ditto 3 0 0
For one Adjutant for each regiment 5 10 0
For one Quartermaster for each regiment 3 0 0
For one Chaplain for each regiment 6 0 0
For one Chirurgeon for each regiment 7 10 0
For two Surgeon's mates for each regiment 4 0 0
For each Sergeant 2 8 0
For each Corporal 2 4 0
For each fifer 2 4 0
For each private centinel 2 0 0
Resolved, that besides the above, a coat for a uniform be
given to each of the non-commissioned officers and privates,
so soon as the State of the Province will admit of it.
Addressed to Zachariah Fitch, Gentleman of Groton:
Also resolved, that the Selectmen of the several towns and
districts within this Colony, be desired to furnish the
soldiers who shall enlist from their respective towns and
districts with good and sufficient blankets, and to render
their accounts to the Committee of Supplies, who are hereby
directed to draw on the Colony Treasurer for payment of the
same. (signed) Joseph Warren, President, P.T.
Insert: Death of Joseph Warren.
Subject: Joseph Warren
Source: Heroes of Wars - Biographical Sketches of the Most
Distinquished by Willard W. Glazier.
JOSEPH WARREN.
No brighter name illumines our country's Roll of Honor than that
of Joseph Warren, the hero of Bunker Hill. When the heel of British
tyranny would have crushed to earth the sacred liberties of the
American people, this young patriot, distinguished already in the
councils of State, sprang to the defence of his country, and will-
ingly laid down his life for the principles he had so fearlessly
advocated.
The Tree of Liberty grew apace, watered by such martyr-blood as that
of Joseph Warren, and a grateful people hold his name in immortal
memory.
When a man thus makes himself the exponent of an idea, when life
itself becomes a secondary consideration to justice and to right -
the world, always a hero-worshipper - is anxious to learn every
detail of that life, to penetrate, if possible, the hidden springs
of its action, and discover, if it may, out of what soil the hero
took his growth.
Joseph Warren was born in Roxbury, Massachusetts, in 1740, but the
accounts we have of his childhood days are too meagre to furnish
any hint of the boy that was "father to the man." It is supposed
that he attended the grammar school of MasterLovell, where our
forefathers received the training which prepared them for
Harvard College. When only fifteen years old he entered college,
and graduated with honors in 1759.
During his university days he was looked upon as a boy of talent,
and also acquired the reputation of great personal bravery. After
leaving college, young Joseph Warren began the study of medicine,
and soon became distinguished in his profession. He was especially
active during the year 1764, when the small-pox spread throughout
Boston. At this time he is described as an accomplished gentle-
man, of fine presence and engaging address, winning favor alike
from the learned and the humble. But his energies were not confined
to the limits of his profession. He soon became known as a fine
writer and an eloquent speaker.
From the year of the Stamp Act to the final breaking out of hosti-
lities between the colonies and Great Britain, he did not cease to
advocate by pen and voice,the rights of the colonies - fearlessly
condemning taxation as tyranny, and openly advocating resistance
to it.
THE SONS OF LIBERTY.
Dr. Joseph Warren was a "Son of Liberty"
During these years, when the seeds of the Revolution were being
sown, a secret society, called the "Sons of Liberty" flourished in
Boston, which wielded a powerful influence in politics. From the
year 1768, Dr. Warren was among itsprincipal members, and there
formed an intimacy with Samuel Adams. "Many of the
JOSEPH WARREN.
members of this club filled public offices, and few in the outside
world knew from whence the public measures of resistance to British
tyranny originated."
In 1772 their numbers were increased and they met in a house near
the "North Battery," where over sixty persons were present at their
first meeting. Dr. Warren drew up the society regulations, and it
is recorded that "no important measures were taken without first
consulting him and his particular friends."
Here were matured those plans of defence, which saw their first
fulfilment at Lexington and Bunker Hill.
After the tea was destroyed in Boston Harbor, the meetings of this
society were no longer secret, but their place of rendezvous was
changed in the spring of 1775, from the "North Battery" to the
"Green Dragon" No member of this organization was more zealous
than Dr. Joseph Warren, no one more active in patriotic
measures. After the bloody scenes of the Boston Massacre, he was
a prominent leader in the efforts made by the town to effect the
removal of the troops, and was appointed by the town, one of a
committee of three to prepare an account of the affair, "that a
full and just representation may be made thereof." The account was
published, and sent to England in a vessel chartered especially
forthat purpose.
Dr. Warren was elected member of the State Legislature from Boston
for the term of 1770, and his name figures conspicuously in the
controversies of the times, and on committees appointed to draft
important state papers. In 1773 he was re-elected and served his
term with distinguished success. In March of the year previous,
he delivered the anniversary oration on the Boston Massacre of 1770,
to a large audience in the Old South Church, Boston.
It was delivered on invitation of the town committee, and was said
to be a brilliant effort. In this address he fearlessly charged
Great Britian with an invasion of colonial rights and called on his
audience to resist the torrent of oppression which was being poured
upon them. In the course of his oration, he gave utteranceto the
following memrable words:
Joseph Warren.
"The voice of your fathers' blood cries to you from the ground,
'My sons, scorn to be slaves! In vain we met the frowns of tyrants
- in vain we crossed the boisterous ocean, found a new world, and
prepared it for the happy residence of LIBERTY - in vain we toiled
- in vain we fought - we bled in vain, if you, our
offspring, want valor to repel the assaults of her invaders!"
This address was printed and widely distributed and a duly appoint-
ed committee returned the thanks of the town to the speaker.
During the exciting years of 1772, 1773 and 1774, Joseph Warren
seems to have been foremost in every movement looking towards the
liberties of the colonies.
Then, as now, there was a conservative party in politics, which
was afraid to offend the British Lion, and which desired recon-
ciliation at almost any price.
But if the minions of royalty cried, "Peace, Peace!" Warren told
them there was no peace. His voice rang out everywhere, counsell-
ing opposition to unjust laws,encouraging the weak, and winning,
by force of logic, the faltering.
In 1772 he was one of the celebrated Committee of Correspondence
which, November 20th, handed in its famous report of grievances.
This important
WARREN.
document was arranged under three heads: First, "A Statement of
the Rights of the Colonists." Second, "A List of the Infringements
of those Rights." And Third,"A Letter of Correspondence with other
Towns."
Dr. Warren was the author of the second paper and Mr. Barry sums up
the "formidable array of complaints" as follows:
The assumption of absolute legislative powers.
The imposition of taxes without consent of the people.
The appointment of officers unknown to the Charter - supported
by income derived from such taxes.
The investing these officers with unconstitutional powers -
especially the Commissioners of his Majesty's Customs.
The annulment of laws enacted by the Court after the time limit-
ed for their rejection had expired.
The introduction of fleets and armies into the colonies.
The support of the executive and judiciary, independently of
the people.
The oppresive instructions sent to the Governor.
The extension of the powers of the Court of Vice-Admiralty.
The restriction of manufacturers.
The act relating to dock-yards and stores which deprived the
people of the right of trial by peers in their own vicinage.
The attempt to establish the American episcopate.
The alteration of the bounds of Colonies by decisions before
the King and his Council."
The paper was a masterly production and its statements were
clear and forcible.
The the march of events went forward until a crisis was
precipitated on the colonies by the arrival of the celebrated
tea in Boston Harbor.
Immediately, the country was filled with excitement. "The
Committee of Correspondence and the Selectmen of the towns
summoned meetings; and every friend of his country
A HERO OF THE WAR.
was urged to make a united and successful resistance to this
'last, worst, andmost destructive measure of the administration.'"
November 29, 1773, a meeting was held at Faneuil Hall which,
for want of room, adjourned to the Old South Church, Boston,
where Joseph Warren and John Hancockand others were the leading
spirits of the occasion.
THE BOSTON TEA PARTY.
Of this meeting was born the Boston Tea Party - the first
Congress - and, eventually, American Independence!
In 1774, Dr. Warren was chosen a Delegate from Suffolk County
to the General Assembly of Massachusetts, and became thence
forward the leading man of the province. At this time John
Hancock was President of the Provincial Congress,
but when he went to the Continental Congress at Philadelphia,
Joseph Warren was elected to fill his place. Meantime, the
fourth anniversary of the Boston Massacre was at hand, and
some of the British officers had threatened that "they would
take the life of any man who should dare to speak on that
occasion."
Warren, hearing of the threat, solicited the privilege of
delivering the anniversary address !
On the day appointed, the Old South Church was filled with an
expectant throng.Large numbers of British soldiers crowded the
aisles, stairways and even the pulpit. An ominous silence reigned
throughout the vast multitude as the waited the arrival of Joseph
Warren.
At last he came, entering the church through a window in back
of the pulpit. His friends were on the qui vive of alarm, fearing
his assination. Though standing ready to avenge such a cowardly
act, would that atone for the murder of their beloved Warren?
JOSEPH WARREN.
But the crisis passed as Warren, commencing his speech in a
firm voice, waxed eloquent as he went on. He pictured the wrongs
of the colonies; he proclaimed the corner-stone of his faith -
"Resistance to tyrants is obedience to God" -he painted the
scenes of the Boston Massacre in such colors and with such
pathos of appeal, that the soldiery who had come there to awe
him by their presence, shed tears at the sad picture. To the
relief of the friends of Warren, no outbreak occurred during the
address, though it was frequently interrupted by the groans
and hisses of the Tories, and the applause of the Patriots.
This speech aroused the enthusiasm of the Country to the highest
pitch - and all hearts beat with the common sentiment which he
had proclaimed -
"Resistance to tyrants is obedience to God."
One of Warren's biographers, speaking of this time, says,
"Such another hour has seldom appeared in the history of Man,
and is not surpassed in the records of Nations."!
The thunders of Demosthenes at a distance from Philip and his
host; and Tully poured the fiecest torrent of his invectives when
Cataline was at a distance, and his dagger no longer to be feared;
but Warren's speech was made to proud oppressors, resting on their
arms, whose errand it was to overawe, and whose business it was
to fight. If the deed of Brutus deserves to be commemorated
should not this instance of patriotism and bravery be held in
lasting remembrance?"
Samuel Adams was moderator of this meeting, and notwithstanding
some disturbance at the close of the oration, succeeded in
finishing the business on hand and dispersing the audience
peaceably.
On the fifteenth of April the Provincial Congress adjourned -
warned probably of the approach of General Gage with an armed
force. Hancock and Adams, who remained at Lexington, were, it
seems, the special objects of British hatred, and a plot was
concocted for their seizure. That their lives were saved at this
time is no doubt due to the efforts of Dr. Joseph Warren.
Paul Revere says that "on the evening of April 18, 1775, he was
sent for in great haste by Dr. Warren who begged that he would
immediately set off for Lexington and aquaint Adams and Hancock
of their danger." But when the impetuous Revere arrived at
Warren's house, he found that an express had already preceded
him.
It is said that Dr. Warren participated in the battle of the
next day - April 19th - when the first blood was shed in be-
half of American Independence, and that a ball took off part
of his ear-lock.
The Revolutionary War is Inaugurated.
Warren was a member of the Committee of Safety and on May 19th
this Committee was delegated full powers by the Provincial
Congress to manage the military force of the province.
Everywhere, men were flocking around the standard of liberty,
and the war of the Revolution was now fully inaugurated.
WARREN - FOUR DAYS BEFORE THE BATTLE OF BUNKER HILL.
Dr. Joseph Warren was commissioned a Major-General four days
before the Battle of Bunker Hill, but did not assume command on
that historic day, choosing rather to fight as a volunteer.
The day before the battle, in a conversation with Mr. Gerry at
Cambridge, he discussed "the determination of Congress to take
possession of Bunker Hill." He said, that for himself he had been
opposed to it, but that the majority had determined upon it, and
he would hazard his life to
BUNKER HILL.
carry that determination into effect. Mr. Gerry expressed his
disapprobation of the measure, as he considered it impossible to
hold, adding, "but if it must be so, it is not worth while for
you to be present; it will be madness for you to expose yourself
where your destruction will be almost inevitable."
"I know it," Joseph Warren replied, "but I live within the sound
of their cannon, how could I hear their roaring in so glorious a
cause and not be there?"
Again, Jr. Gerry remonstrated, and concluded with saying, "As sure
as you go there you will be slain!"
General Warren replied enthusiastically, "It is sweet to die for
one's country."!
That night he was busily engaged with public affairs at Watertown,
and did not reach Cambridge until five o'clock the next morning.
Throwing himself on a bed,he slept until nearly noon, when he was
aroused with the news of the approaching battle at Charlestown.
Hastily rising, he mounted his horse and rode to the
scene of action - reaching Breed's Hill a short time before the
opening of the battle.
Colonel William Prescott rode forward to resign his command and
report for orders, but Joseph Warren did not choose to take the
position at that time, saying that he considered it honor enough
to fight under so brave an Officer.
He borrowed a musket and a cartridge-box, and rushing into the
hottest of the fray, encouraged the men by his brave words and
braver example. Three times the British charged the redoubt on the
hill, and were twice driven back. At the third charge, when the
ammunition of the Provincials gave out, and when a terrible
enfilading fire swept the inner line of the redoubt, they were
obliged to fall back.
DR. JOSEPH WARREN KILLED.
Warren was killed after the retreat began - one of the last
to leave the redoubt. The fatal bullet pierced his brain,
producing almost instant death. He was buried on the spot where
he fell.
"And thus Warren fell - happy death, noble fall. To perish for
country at Liberty's call. !"
His presentiment had been fulfilled. His life had been freely
given for the cause he held dearer than life.
Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth
p.61 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
CAPTAIN ZECHARIAH FITCH
We whose names are under-written, do hereby severally
inlist ourselves into the Service of the United American
Colonies, and severally promise, and engage to continue
in such service until the first day of December, 1776,
unless sooner discharged; and to furnish ourselves each
with a good effective fire-arm, and if possible, a bayon-
ette fitted thereto, a cartridge-box and blanket, or in
lieu of a bayonet, a hatchet or a tomahawk. We also in
like manner promise and engage to obey the lawful comm-
ands of the Officers appointed, or to be appointed over
us, pursuant to the Resolves of the General Court of
the Colony of the Massachusetts Bay; and under the dir-
ection of such officers to march, when ordered, with the
utmost dispatch, to the Northern department or Canada,
and to be subject to all such Rules and Regulations, in
every respect, as are provided for the Continental Army.
As witness our hands: July 31st, 1776.
Daniel Hayward
Ebenezer Stone, Jr.
Thomas Dutton.
Indorsed from Ashby, etc.
To Captain Fitch Marlborough Aug. 18, 1776.
Sir:
I am informed your Company of men belongs to Colonel
Brewer's Regiment. I have Received Orders from Council
to direct all the companies belonging to the Regiment,
to repair, as soon as possible to Bennington, in york
Government, unless you have received Orders from Col.
Brewer to march elsewhere. In haste conclude
Your humble servant, Sam Carlton.
(Addressed) To Captain Fitch of Groton - Colony Service.
Indorsed - Marching Orders.
To Captain Zachariah Fitch
Sir:
You are hereby ordered to march the Company, belonging
to the regiment of which Samuel Brewer, Esq., is Colonel
except you have alread received marching Orders from Col.
Brewer, or Lieutenant Colonel
p.62 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Carleton the most direct way to Bennington (Vermont) in
York Government, where they are to receive their rations
and mileage; and from thence the safest route to Ticonder-
oga, where you are to join the Continental Army. You are
also to take special care that your men are kept under
proper discipline; and that they be not permitted on
their march to molest or injure any of the good people
of the places through which they pass.
And you are hereby directed to give proper orders to such
of your Officers as may be, by you more immediately in-
trusted with their march to prevent the same.
By Order of the major part of ye Council
In Council, August 23d, 1776 John Avery,
Deputy Secretary.
Indorsed - Marching Orders.
Ty Mills, September 23, 1776.
Received of Captain Zachariah Fitch, twenty two shillings
in full for my mileage and day's pay. Stephen Blood, Jr.
Ty Mills, September 23, 1776.
This may certify that I have discharged Stephen Blood
from my Company - he having hired Lovell Spaulding in his
room (place). Also received of said Stephen Blood, forty
shillings to pay to said Spaulding, provided he tarry with
the Compnay until ye 1st of December, 1776, but if said
Spaulding should not tarry out his time, then to return
the forty shillings to said Blood.
Zechariah Fitch, Captain.
Ty Mills, September 23, 1776
Sir.
Please to pay to Captain Zachariah Fitch, the whole of
my wages which you shall receive of the Pay Master and
your obliged, your humble servant, Stephen Blood, Jr.
To Colonel Samuel Brewer.
Indorsed, Stepehn Blood's Orders.
p.63 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR
BY SAMUEL ABBOTT GREEN.
Ticonderoga - September 21st, 1776.
This may Certify that I have received of Mr. Steven Blood,
Jr., an Order on the Paymaster of my Regiment for the whole
of the wages that has or shall become due to Lovell Spauld-
ing, as a soldier in Captain Fitche's Company in my regi-
ment, which I promised the said Steven Blood that I will
see the same stop's on the Role for him - witness my hand,
Samuel Brewer
Groton, Dec. 21, 1776
I then received of Capt. Zechariah Fitch the full of the
wasges of Lovell Spalding written. I say Received by me:
Stephen Blood, Jun'r.
An abstract Pay Role of Captain Zechariah Fitche's Company
in Colonel Samuel Brewer's Regiment from ye 1st of November
to ye 1st of December, 1776.
__________________________________________________________
Capt. Fitch's 1st month Whole Pay Deduction Due Total
Company for dead
and discharged
__________________________________________________________
I Captain 1 8-0-0 8-0-0
I 1st Lieut. 1 5-8-0 5-8-0
I 2d Lieut. 1 5-8-0 5-8-0
I Ensign 1 4-0-0 4-0=0
4 Sargeants 4 9-12-0 9-12-0
6 Corp. Fife Drum 6 13-4-0 13-0-0
66 Privates 66 132-0-0 114-6-8
_____________________________________________________________
177-12-0 17-13-4 159-18-8 159-18-8
ZECHARIAH FITCH, CAPTAIN.
Indorsed: Capt. Zechariah Fitch's Abstract Pay Role for ye month
of November.
p.64 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION
An abstract of Capt. Zechariah Fitche's Company,
Commanded by Colonel Samuel Brewer for their mile-
age, March of 1777.
No. of miles Amount at Amount at Total
1 penny one day's
per mile pay for 20
miles
________________________________________________________
Capt. Zechariah Fitch 220 1 - 0 - 7 2 - 18 - 8 3-19-3
1st Leut. Nathan Stow 220 0 -13 - 9 1 - 19 - 7 2-13-4
2nd Leit. Josiah Bowers 220 0 -13 - 9 1 - 19 - 7 2-13-4
Ens. Nemiah Blodgett 220 0 -13 - 9 1 9 - 4 2- 3-1
Four Sergeants. 880 3 -13 - 4 3 - 10 - 5 7- 3-9
4 Corp's, 1 Drum &
1 fife 1320 5 -10 - 0 4 - 16 - 9
68 Privates 14960 62 - 6 - 8 49 - 17 - 4
18040 74 -11 -10 66 - 11 - 8 141 - 3 - 6
___________________________________________________________________
Zechariah Fitch, Captain.
Suffolk ss: Boston, March 24, 1777.
The within signing Zachariah Fitch personally appeared & was
Duly sworn to the within abstract. Before: Jonathan Metcalf,
Justice of the Peace.
Indorsed - Captain Fitche's Abstract.
The following paper is found among the Massachusetts Archives
at the State House, but the preceding papers relating to Capt.
Fitch's Company are now in my possession, having been given to
me by Mrs. Amelia (Fitch) Rowe.
Delivered to Captain Zachariah Fitch of Groton, 1 Lt., 1 Ens.
and 25 privates, and one private to Capt. Nathan Sergeant of
Malden, Mass., all enlisted, mustered and paid by Simeon
Spaulding and William Thompson of the Committee Appointed for
that purpose.
p.65 CAPTAIN JOB SHATTUCK.
Captain Fitch's Company marched August 28, 1776. In obedience
to an Order of Council of the 21st of August, we present the
following account.
Indorsed. Return men in Middlesex when the Rolls are deficient.
Towns - Samuel Fay, Woburn; James Bancroft, Redding, Jno. Ford,
Chelmsford, Zachariah Fitch, Groton, Nath Sargent, Malden,
July, 1776 & August. Acc muster rolls by Simeon Spalding &
William Thompson.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XLI. 103.
CAPTAIN JOB SHATTUCK.
Job Shattuck was a son, the youngest of eight children, of
William and Margaret (Lund) Shattuck, and was born at Groton,
on February 11, 1736. He began his military life as a private
in Capt. Ephraim Jones's Company, which served in an expedition
sent to Nova Scotia under Colonel John Winslow in the year 1755
to bring away the poor French families from that Province.
He went as a First Lieutenant in a militia company, that march-
ed from Groton on April 19, 1775, of which Josiah Sartell was
Captain, and Shattuck Blood, was Second Lieutenant. There is
no record at the State House to show that he was at the Battle
of Bunker Hill, as has been stated in print. His name is found
next on the Muster-Roll of Captain Henry Haskell's company,
dated at Cambridge, January 13, 1776, where he appears still,
as a First Lieutenant. On another document (Massachusetts
Archives, XLI. 148), dated January, 1776, he appears as the
Captain of a company recently formed, and was duly commiss-
ioned by the Council, on February 12th. This company went
to Boston when that town was evacuated by the British troops
in March. Throughout the War, Captain Shattuck's career was
honorable and patriotic and no soldier had a better record
for his military service. Unfortunately, for his good name,
a few years later, he became a leader in Shays's rebellion
p.66 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
which broke out during a very gloomy period in the history
of the Commonwealth. While there may have been some extenu-
ating circumstances connected with the movement, no valid
excuse can be given for the steps then taken in order to
right political wrongs.
It is enough to say that Captain Shattuck, for his part in
the insurrection, was tried before the Supreme Judicial
Court and he was convicted of treason and sentenced to be
hanged on June 28, 1787, but on the day before this, a re-
prieve was granted until July 26, then, on the day preceding
this execution of the sentence was again postponed to Sept-
ember 20th, and on the 12th of that month he received a full
and unconditional pardon.
It is but just to his memory, however, to add that he was a
member of the church and much respected by his townsmen. At
the time of the rebellion, he was near the middle age of life,
and a man of great bodily vigor. He was the son of a respect-
able farmer, and himself a large land owner. Strong and
athletic in person, skilled in the use of the broadsword
and proud of the accomplishement, utterly insensible to fear
and having a good war-record, - all these qualities, aided by
his position and means, gave him great influence among his
neighbors. He paid dearly for his errors, as the crutch which
he used until the day of his death would testify; and we can
well afford, now, to be charitable to the memory of the poor
misguided men who took part in that needless and wicked rebell-
ion.
Captain Shattuck died at the home of his youngest son, Noah
Shattuck, at Groton, on January 13, 1819. He was married (1)
on May 25, 1758, to Sarah, the eldest child of Samuel & Sarah
(Holden) Hartwell, who was born on March 19, 1738 and died
on May 5, 1798. He m. (2) on May 2, 1800 Mrs. Elizabeth Gragg,
daughter of William & Miriam Lakin and the widow of John Gragg
to whom she was married on October 19, 1763, who died June 1,
1824, five years after the death of her 2nd husband.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
CAPTAIN JOB SHATTUCK.
Shay's Rebellion
Insert.
From the History of Groton by Caleb Butler
Job Shattuck.
The first act of violence committed by the insurgents, was forcibly preventing
the courts of justice from holding their sessions, and transacting their regular
business. Job Shattuck of Groton, who had been
a soldier in the French war, and a commissioned officer in the Revolution,
p.133
and who was otherwise qualified to be conspicuous in such a cause, became
the leader and commander of the insurgent forces in Middlesex county.
The historian, who wrote an account of this rebellion, the next year after
it happened, and who had ample means of knowing the facts in relation to
the transactions at Concord, when the court of common pleas and general
sessions of the peace were there by law to be holden, says, "No sooner
was it known by the insurgents, who were contemptible in point of strength
and character, that government would not act with force, than they appeared
in triumph on the spot." "They took possession of the court house, and
paraded with great insolence before the court who had assembled at a small
distance. One of their leaders, Capt. Nathan Smith of Shirley, was exceed-
ingly outrageous and once threatened to put all persons to the sword, who
would not join them in two hours. Such was the profanity in his language,
that it at first staggered the less hardened party from Worcester, but a
union of forces afterwards took place.
Job Shattuck, their principal leader sent a written message, that it was
the sense of the people that the court should not sit. He afterwards
affected to permit the court of sessions to sit, on condition of adjourning
to a day prescribed; but the issue was, that the rioters grew still more
outrageous and no court could sit at all."
When the court was about to be holden at Cambridge, the Governor issued
orders for the militia of Middlesex to be in readiness to march to that
place. "But," says the historian, "an influential character in Middlesex
undertook to make an agreement with the leaders of that county, that no
forces should appear on either side, and wrote a letter to the Governor
on this subject to their satisfaction."
But the insurgents did not abide by their agreement; and they took measures
to have a large and imposing force
p.134
collected from Worcester and Bristol counties, to join those of Middlesex,
at Cambridge.
The historian proceeds: "Pursuant to this new scheme, a small party of
Middlesex insurgents, headed by Oliver Parker [insert: Oliver Parker,
son of Obadiah & Hannah Parker of Groton, b. October 21, 1733 - p.13
Groton Historical Series, Vol. I - by Dr. Samuel A. Green, Groton, 1887.]
Job Shattuck, their former Captain, coming in a more secret manner, in order
to avoid the appearance of breaking his agreement, marched into the town of
Concord. Upon their arrival, Job Shattuck proceeded in the night to Weston,
to get intelligence of the Worcester forces, but though they had begun their
march, they did not appear, and from this want of co-operation the whole plan
fell through.
"The leaders of the insurrectionists, having thus rejected the pardon which
was help up to them by the General Court," - "warrents were issued for
apprehending the head men of the insurgents, in Middlesex, and for imprison-
them without bail or mainprise. The execution of these warrants was committed
to the sheriff of Middlesex and others, to whose aid a party of
horse, who had voluntarily associated for the support of government, under
Colonel Benjamin Hitchborn, was ordered from Boston, early in the morning of
the 29th of November. These were joined by a party from Groton, under the
command of Col. Henry Woods, and the whole, consisting of more than one
hundred, proceeded immediately for Concord. On their arrival there, the
Groton horse, as being best acquainted with the country, and least liable
to excite an alarm from an unfamiliar appearance to the inhabitants, were
dispatched to secure the subjects of the warrant. These returned at night
with two prisoners, Oliver Parker and Benjamin Page; but Job Shattuck, the
principal leader, had taken an alarm and escaped. Under this disappointment,
at midnight, in the midst of a violent snow storm, the whole
party were ordered on to Shattuck's house in Groton, where they did not
arrive till late in the morning. A search was immediately commenced,
p.135
and a judicious pursuit discovered him to a party of a few persons, lead
by Colonel Woods himself. Job Shattuck obstinately resisted, and was not
taken till he had received several wounds, and which he returned without
much injury."
Thus three of the leaders of the rebels being secured, the adherents to the
party in Groton, it is believed, did no more treasonable acts, but soon after
went before a magistrate, delivered up their arms, took the oath of
allegiance, and became peaceable subjects of the government. No less than
seventy names of persons belonging to Groton, are found, who did so.
It is not necessary, in relating the affairs of a single country township,
to follow the narrative of the Shays' rebellion farther; though it might
teach the present and future generations a salutary lesson, to avoid
treasonable resistance of government, and to aid in a firm support of law
and order. The issue is well known. The strong arm of government, ener-
getically and judiciously exercised, in a few months overcame all opposition,
with very little bloodshed to either of the belligerents; and
the penitence of the prisoners, though convicted of the highest in the
catalogue of crimes, procured them a pardon from execution.
There are those of the present day (1848) who do not duly distinguish
between the liberty which is consistent with good government, and liberty
degenerated to licentiousness, who would probably have joined the insurgents,
had they lived at that time, and who now half justify their
proceedings, or at least go so far as to say, that much good accrued to
the Commonwealth by them. True it is, that from every evil some good may
arise; but men are not to be envied, whose achievements are good, only that
they may be set up as a beacon to warn others against falling into the same
follies, errors and wickedness.
The historian of the affair closes his account with the following pertinent
remark:
p.136
"Thus was a dangerous internal war finally suppressed, by the spirited
use of constitutional power, without the shedding of blood by the hand of
the civil magistrate; a circumstance which it is the duty of every citizen
to ascribe to its real cause, the lenity of government and not its weakness;
a circumstance, too, that must attach every man to a constitution, which,
from a happy principle of mediocrity, governs its subjects without oppression,
and reclaims them without severity."
Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
continued.
p. 67 CAPTAIN JOB SHATTUCK
Captain Job Shattuck organized a company which did duty for
a few days in the spring of 1776, when the town of Boston was
evacuated. The following papers relate to the matter, and give
the pay-roll of the company.
COLONEL WILLIAM PRESCOTT.
February ye 17th, 1776.
To the Honorable Council and House of Representatives of the
Colony of the Massachusetts Bay. This may certify that a
company of militia commanded by Captain Henry Haskell, Job
Shattuck, 1st, and Samuell Gilson, 2nd Lieutenants, consist-
ing of seventy men, officers included, said Officers behaved
themselves as good officers and appeared faithful in the cause
we are now engaged in. (signed) William Prescott, Colonel.
In Council, February 23d, 1776.
Read and ordered that the within named Officers be commissioned
agreeable to their several ranks within certified.
Perez Morton, D. Secretary.
Indorsed - Captain Henry Haskell's ordered to be com'd under
Colonel William Prescott - February 23d, 1776. December 10th
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XLIII. 289.
At a meeting of a company of men rasied from the towns of
Groton, Littleton, Pepperell, Shirley, Townshend & Ashby,
after being formed into a company by direction of a Committee
of ye Court to join the army until the first of April next,
the said Company made choice of the following Gentlemen for
their officers: (viz)
Job Shattuck, Captain.
Peter Butterfield, 1st Lieut.
Daniel Fisk, 2nd Lieut.
John Robbins, Ensign.
January, 1776 - Josiah Sartell, one of the said Committee.
In Council, February 12th, 1776 - Read and Ordered that the
within named persons be commissioned, agreeable to ye re-
spective ranks, within certified. Perez Morton, D. Secr.
Indorsed - Order to command Officers of a Company of ye re-
inforcement to April next from Groton, etc. Feb'y 12th,
1776. Captain Job Shattuck.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XLI.148.
p.68 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Cambridge, March, 1776.
A Payroll of Captain Job Shattuck's Company in Col. John
Robinson's Regiment of Militia from the time thy were en-
listed, before we marched from our respective towns, for
camp.
__________________________________________________________
Men's Names No. Days Men's Names No. Days
-------------------------------------------------------------
Capt. Job Shattuck 8 Amos Dole 8
Lt. Peter Butterfield 6 Ivory Wyles 8
Lt. Daniel Fisk 6 Samuel Walker 8
Ens. John Robbins 9 Jonathan Hartwell 8
Sgt. James Parker 8 Solomon Pierce 8
Sgt. Samuel March 6 Abel Chase 8
Sgt. Abner Whetcomb 6 James Edgerton 8
Sgt. Noah Farrar 6 Charles Phips 8
Corp. Solomon Cooper 9 Samuel Barritt 8
Corp. Simon Holden 8 Sampson Bowers 6
Corp. Jonathan Lewis 6 Benjamin Hudson 6
Corp. Isaac Patch 8 David Tarbell 6
Drummer David Fisk 6 David Tarbell, Jr. 6
Fifer Lemuel Parker 6 Abraham Shattuck 6
Francis Mitchell 8 Ezekiel Parham 6
Elisha Hoit 8 Phillip Lovejoy 6
Benjamin Bennitt 8 Daniel Shed 6
John Fyfe 6 Edmund Wright 6
Stephen Stimson 8 Levi Woods 6
Nehemiah Parker 8 Hinchman Warren 6
Joseph Moors 6 Moses Warren 6
Nathan Warren 6 Asa Hale 6
Hezekiah Kemp 6 Daniel Clarke 6
Obadiah Jenkins 6 Daniel Conant 6
Richard Holden 8 Daniel Holt, Jr. 6
Jonas Taylor 6 Ebenezer Ball 6
Josiah Warren 6 Thaddeus Spaulding 6
Samuel Rockwood 6 Stephen Warren 6
Levi Sampson 6 William Clark 6
Abraham Moors 6 James Lock 6
_____________________________________________________________
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
CAPTAIN JOB SHATTUCK.
p.69
MENS NAMES NO DAYS MENS NAMES NO DAYS.
John Simonds 6 James Hosley 6
Simeon Brooks 6 John Sartall 6
Harbor Farnsworth 6 Jonathan Baley 6
Abel Sartall 6 Daniel Campbell 6
Jonathan Tarbell 6 Ephraim Warren 6
Mitchel Richards 6 Moses Blanchard 6
Simeon Bigelow 9 Abel Hildreth 6
John Robbins 9 Timothy Emerson 6
Josiah Davis 9 John Emerson 6
Ebenezer Davis 9 Benjamin Colman 6
Gideon Sanderson 9 Ephraim Gibson 6
William Farr 9 James Jones 6
Daniel Collins 9 Jonathan Foster 6
John Brown 9 John Gibson 6
___________________________________________________________
Job Shattuck, Captain.
Middlesex ss April 1, 1776.
Captain Job Shattuck the subscriber of the above pay-roll,
personally appeared and made solemn Oath to the truth of the
same.
Before me, Jonathan Hastings, Justice
of the Peace.
The Committee on this Roll have examined the same and beg leave
to report by way of resolve. (viz)
THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JUNE, 1776.
Resolved that there be paid out of the Public Treasury of this
Colony, unto Captain Job Shattuck, the sum of forty two pounds,
seven shillings and eight pence for the use of the men borne on
this Roll.
Indorsed - Captain Job Shattuck's Roll.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, LV. N. 30.
p.70 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Amos Farnsworth's Diary.
Captain Job Shattuck organized another company which did duty
in the neighborhood of Fort Ticonderoga, and on the Rolls at
the State House, it is credited with five months' service from
July 1st to November 30th, 1777. According to the Diary of Amos
Farnsworth, it marched from Groton, Massachusetts on July 23,
and returned on December 7th. The following abstract of a Muster
Roll is the only list of the company that I (Dr. Samuel A. Green)
have been able to find:
An Abstract Muster Roll for mileage and billiting money for
Captain Job Shattuck's Company in Colonel Jonathan Read's
Regiment for one penny a mile and a day's pay for every twenty
miles from Saratoga to their respective homes. Groton, January
26th, 1777.
Men's Names Rank Town belonging to. miles
travelled.
___________________________________________________________
Job Shattuck Captain Groton 230
Silas Peirce Lieut. Pepperell 225
Nathan Conant Lieut. Townsend 220
Amos Farnsworth Ensign Groton 230
Benjamin Nutting Sergeant Pepperll 225
Abner Adams Sergeant Townsend 220
Samuel Hemingway Sergeant Groton 230
Abel Parker Sergeant Pepperell 225
William Stevens Corporal Townsend 220
Joseph Page Corporal Groton 230
James McConnen Corporal Pepperell 225
Ephraim Robbins Corporal Groton 230
Lemuel Parker Fifer Groton 230
Twenty four Privates Groton 230 miles
each.
Sixteen Privates Pepperell 225 miles
each.
Seventeen Privates Townsend 220 miles
each.
___________________________________________________________
Total of men - 70
One Private for mileage and billiting Groton to Ticonderoga
who was excluded in the first abstract.
(signed) Job Shattuck, Captain.
to be continued - transcribed by Janice Farnsworth
p.71 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
CAPTAIN NATHANIEL LAKIN.
Suffolk, February 1, 1777.
Sworn before Nathaniel Bayley, Justice of the Peace.
Examined and allowed.
Copy per Nathaniel Bayley.
Seth Loring, Clerk to ye Committee on the part
of ye Board.
In Council, February 3, 1777.
Read and allowed and ordered that a Warrant be drawn on
the Treasury for £126.6.5 in full of this abstract.
Jonathan Avery, Deputy Secretary.
Indorsed. Captain Job Shattuck's Abstract from Ticon-
eroga, due £126.6.5. Colonel Read's Regiment.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, L.V.
File L, 35.
CAPTAIN NATHANIEL LAKIN.
Captain Lakin was the youngest son of James & Elizabeth
(Williams) Lakin of Groton, Mass., where he was born on
December 13, 1728. His marriage is entered on the church
records, under date of January 23, 1755, as follows:
"Nathaniel Lakin of Pepperell and Sybil Parker of Groton."
The company was recruited from the neighborhood of Groton,
and the men belonged to various towns. I print both the
Muster-roll and the Pay-roll, which are very similar, but
not identical. My grand-father, Samuel Lawrence, was a
commissioned officer in the command.
At the beginning of the War, Captain Lakin was a minute-
man, and at different times during the Revolution, he
served as Captain in various regiments. His term of ser-
vice extended at intervals to the end of the War.
p.72 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Muster Roll of Capt. Nathaniel Lakin's Company in the
Service of the United States - Commanded by Colonel John
Robinson - Engaged for Six Months from July ye 1st, 1777
to December 18, 1777.
COMMISSIONED.
Nathaniel Lakin Captain June 27, 1777 On furlough.
John Chaney 1st. Leut. June 27, 1777 Taken from the
papers of Susana
Lawrence & of
Lt. Sam'l Law-
rence. H.H.S.
Samuel Lawrence 2d Lieutenant June 27, 1777.
Ephraim Brown Ensign June 27, 1777.
___________________________________________________________
Sergeants When Enlisted Remarks - Corporals When Enlisted Remarks
Shebuel Conant July 20 Samuel M. Emerson July 20
John Scott Aug. 1. James Cummings July 7
Eph'm Russell Aug. 1. Thomas Nichols July 7
Drum & Fifer
Robinson Lakin Aug. 1 - Major Fifer, made up in the Staff Roll.
Lemuel Parker July 7 - Major Fifer, made up in the Staff Roll.
p.73 Groton, Massachusetts During The Revolutionary War.
Privates When Enlisted Remarks - Privates When Enlisted Remarks
____________________________________________________________________
David Jenkins July 7. On duty. - John Perham July 7 -
Uriel Whitney July 7. " Daniel Willard "
Moses Chase July 7. " Josiah Moshur July 20.
Thomas Tarbell July 7. " John Chamberland Aug. 1st.
Henry Swan July 7 " Abel Lakin Aug. 1st.
Oliver Farnsworth " " Lemuel Parker "
Moses Ames July 7. " Jonathan Tarbell Aug. 1st.
John Trowbridge " " Samuel Wyman "
Amos Ames " " Josiah Robins "
Isaac Williams " " Isaac Wetherbee "
Ambros Lakin " " Nathan Shattuck "
Daniel Wetherbee " " John Shattuck "
James Darling " " Ebenezer Ball "
Samuel Lovejoy " " Ebenezer Giles "
Abner Lovejoy " " Israel Stone "
Thomas Caprin " " Philip Butterfield "
Philip Lovejoy " " Richard Francis "
Aaron Farmer " " Ebenezer French "
Jonathan French " " Jonathan Patts "
Peter Gillson " Sick in Camp Jonah Johnston July 7th.
p.74 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
North Kingston Dec 18th, 1777 Mustered Captain Lakin's Company
As Specified in the above Roll.
We do swear that the within Muster Roll is a True State of
the company without fraud to these United State or any Individuals
according to the best of our knowledge. John Chaney, Lieut.
Sam Lawrence, Lieut.
Sworn before me, this 18th day of December, 1777. Daniel Hall,
Justice of the Peace.
Indorsed - Muster roll when Mustered by Major Brown.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, II. 184.
Pay Roll of Bounty due to Capt. Nath'l Lakin's Company,
Colonel John Robinson's Regiment from Massachusetts State
for Service done at Rhode Island, from the first of July to
the last of December, 1777, exlusive of three pounds received
by each soldier.
______________________________________________________________
NAME TIME OF ENLISTING TIME OF SERVICE
Months - Days
Shebuel Conant July 20th 2 11
John Scott Aug. 1st 2
Ephraim Russell " 2
William Kemp " 2 25
Samuel M. Emerson July 20 2 11
James Commings July 7 2 17
deserted December 23.
Thomas Nichols July 7 2 17
deserted December 23.
Eleazer Butterfield August 1st 2
Lemuel Parker July 7 2 17
deserted December 23.
Robinson Lakin August 1. 2 17
David Jenkins July 7. 2 17
Uriel Whitney July 7 2 25
Moses Chase July 7 2 25
Thomas Tarbell July 7 2 25
Oliver Farnsworth July 7 2 25
____________________________________________________________
p.75 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
CAPTAIN NATHANIEL LAKIN.
Men's Names Time of Enlistment Time of Service.
_____________________________________________________
Moses Ames July 7th 2 25
John Trowbridge " 2 25
Amos Ames " 2 25
Isaac Williams " 2 25
Ambrose Lakin " 2 25
Daniel Wetherbee " 2 25
James Darling " 2 25
Samuel Lovejoy " 2 25
Abner Lovejoy " 2 25
Thomas Capren " 2 25
Philip Lovejoy " 2 25
Aaron Farmer " 2 25
Daniel Willard " 2 25
Peter Gillson " 2 25
Jonah Johnston " Discharged Dec. 12 - allowed.
Jonathan French " 2 25
John Perham " Deserted December 23rd.
Josiah Moshuer July 20 2 11
John Chamberland Aug. 1st
Abel Lakin Aug. 1st
Lemuel Parker ditto
Jonathan Tarball ditto
Samuel Wyman ditto
Josiah Robbins ditto
Isaac Wetherbee ditto
Nathan Shattuck ditto
John Shattuck ditto
Ebenezer Ball ditto
Ebenezer Jiles ditto
Israel Stone ditto
Philip Butterfield ditto
Richard Francis ditto
Ebenezer French ditto
Jonathan Patts ditto.
___________________________________________________________
Nathaniel Lakin, Captain.
p.76 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
By Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Captain Nathaniel Lakin's Roll in Col. Robinson's Regiment for
Service in Rhode Island.
Examined & found due £114-10-0 - Jonathan Metcalf, per Order.
Examined and the above sume is due to A. Fuller - order to be
made payable to Lieut. Samuel Lawrence.
In Council. June 19, 1778.
Read and allowed and ordered that a warrant be drawn on the
Treaury for £114.10.0, in full of this Roll.
Jonathan Avery, Deputy Secretary.
Middlesex ss Groton, March 25, 1778 - Then Captain Nathaniel
Lakin made solemn oath to the Muster Roll - that the sum is
Just and True, according to his best knowledge conerning the
same. Before Josiah Sartell, Justice of the Peace.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, II. 180.
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Captain Abisha Brown of Concord, Mass. and, according to
the following papers, there was a Groton man in his company.
Abstract of Captain Abisha Brown Company in the Colony Service,
Colonel Josiah Whitney Regiment.
Men's Names Rank Town belonging to No. of miles.
Obadiah Jenkins Pvt. Groton 40
Suffolk ss June 24, 1776
Then Captain Abishai Brown made oath to ye truth of the above
Roll. Sworn before me, B. Lincoln,
Justice of the Peace.
Boston, December, 3, 1776 - Then adjusted the within role with
David Jeffries, paymaster - and received of him One hundred and
forty five pounds, nine shillings and five pence in full of the
within:
£146.9.5 Ephraim Jackson, Lt. Colonel.
Indorsed. Captain Abishai Brown's Roll in Colonel Whitney's
Regiment. 1776 £145.9.5.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, L.V. File L, 36.
Insert: Colonel Josiah Whitney
Source: Sons of the American Revolution
Josiah Whitney, born October 12, 1731 at Stow, Massachuetts.
Died January 24, 1806 at Stow, Mass. He was a Lieut. Colonel
in Col. Asa Whitcomb's Regiment, April 19, 1775; served at
the Siege of Boston. Col. Josiah Whitney, 2nd Worceser County
regiment, April 10, 1776; the regiment was raised to fortify
town and harbor of Boston; also Colonel of a regiment which
served in Rhode Island, May and July, 1777, and on an alarm
at Bennington, Vermont, Aug 19, 1777; also a Colonel in
Brig. General Titcomb's brigade at Rhode Island, July thru
September, 1778.
p.77 A Muster-roll of Captain Abishai Brown's Compan in Colonel
Josiah Whitney's Regiment raised by the State of Massachus-
etts Bay. From the 1st of November, 1776 up to the first of
December, A.D. 1776 - and one day for every 20 miles' travel.
Camp at Hull, November 27th, 1776.
Name Rank Town Number of miles Months-Days.
Obadiah Ginkins Private Groton 70 3
In Council - December 5, 1776.
Read and allowed and Ordered that a Warrant be drawn on the
Treasury for £178.3.7 in full of this Roll.
John Avery, Deputy Sec'y.
Indorsed. Captain Abisha Brown's Roll in Colonel Marshall's
Regiment, December, 1776. Due £178.3.7 per Woodbridge Brown.
Copy Seth Loring, Clerk to ye Committee on the part of the
Board.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, LV. File L, 49.
Captain Thomas Warren belonged to the town of Townsend, Mass.,
but more than one third of his company were Groton, Mass. men.
HARBOR FARNSWORTH.
Harbor Farnsworth was so named from the fact that he was born
in Boston Harbor in a boat, on June 10, 1756.
A Return of Captain Thomas Warren's Company in Col. Brooks'
Regiment, October 31, 1776.
Name Present for Duty Wounded Sick Hometown
Lt. Joseph Rockwood 1 Groton
Sgt. Samuel Gragg 1 1 Groton
Corp. Asa Porter 1 Groton
Jonathan Boyden 1 Groton
Harbor Farnsworth 1 Groton
Samuel Teel 1 1 Groton
Nehemiah Lawrence 1 1 Groton
Paul Fletcher 1 Groton.
p.78 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War
Joseph Moors 1 1 Groton
Jacob Patch 1 1 Groton
Jonathan Tarbell 1 Groton
Simeon Williams 1 Groton
Abel Sawtell 1 Groton
William Kemp 1 Groton
Phineas Hemmingway 1 Groton
Jonathan Capron 1 Groton
Benjamin Fisk 1 Groton
Richard Holden 1 1 Groton
Jonathan Stone 1 1 Groton
Nathaniel Stone 1 1 Groton
Oliver Lakin 1 1 Groton
Gabriel Lakin 1 Groton
Abel Farwell 1 Groton.
________________________________________________________________
Indorsed - Capt. Warren's Return, Col. Brooks. October 31, 1776,
White Plains.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XXIV.55.
CAPTAIN JOHN MINOT.
Capt. John Minot was of Chelmsford, and he had in his company
a dozen or more Groton men. One of them, a mere lad, lost his
life on Dorchester Heights, according to an Epitaph on a tomb-
stone in the Old Burying Ground at Groton, as follows:
Tombstone.
Cherub's Head.
Memento Mori
Here lies the Body
of Nathaniel Stone
Son of Mr. Nathaniel
Stone & Mrs. Sybel Stone,
His wife, who died in his
Country's service on Dor-
chester Hill, Oct. 22, 1776
Aged 17 Years, One Month and
twenty-two days.
p.79 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
CAPTAIN JOHN MINOT.
A Pay Roll of Travel & Wages Due to Captain John Minot's
Company in Colonel Dike's Regiment, for the travel from their
places of abode to the Heights of Dorchester, Mass., the place
of rendezvous and back to their respective homes and one day's
wages for every twenty miles home.
NAME TOWN NUMBER OF MILES NUMBER OF DAYS
Benjamin Lawrence Groton 82 2
Roland Lawrence Groton 82 2
Abel Kemp " " "
Benjamin Patch " " "
Simeon Brooks " " "
William Shed " " "
Ezra Prescott " " "
Nathaniel Stone " " "
Benjamin Farwell " " "
Salmon Whitney " " "
Shattuck Blood " " "
_____________________________________________________________
John Minot, Captain.
In Council, November 30, 1776.
Read and allowed and ordered that a warrent be drawn on the
Treasury for £60. 12. 2. in full of this Roll.
John Avery, Deputy Secretary.
Indorsed. 34 Captain John Minot's mileage Roll in Colonel
Dike's Regiment at Dorchester Heights, November, 1776.
Examined and drawn £60.12.2 - Copy - D. Sewall.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, L.V. File L.,
34.
p.80 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
A Muster Roll of Capt. John Minot's Company
in Colonel Dike's Regiment.
_____________________________________________________________
MONTH DAYS NAME RANK TOWN CASUALTIES.
Dec. 1776 1 Benjamin Lawrence 1st Lt. Groton.
13 Asa Porter Sgt. Groton.
13 Edmund Blood Corp. Groton
13 Johathan Capron Priv. Groton.
13 Simeon Williams Priv. Groton.
1 Salmon Whitney Priv. Groton.
1 Benjamin Farwell Priv. Groton.
1 Cotton Proctor Priv. Groton.
1 Solomon Gilson Priv. Groton.
1 Ephraim Farwell Priv. Groton.
1 Shattuck Blood Priv. Groton. Discharged on
February 13.
13 Jonathan Teel Priv. Groton.
1 Roland Lawrence Priv Groton.
_______________________________________________________
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XXVI.428
Captain Oliver Lyman belonged to Northampton and Capt.
John Hartwell in Lincol.
A Muster Roll of Capt. Oliver Lyman's Company in Col.
Dike's Regiment.
December 1, 1776, Benjamin Shaw, Sgt., Groton was
discharged Jan. 28, 1777.
Massachusetts Archived, Revolutionary Papers, XXVI.
418.
A Muster Roll of Capt. John Hartwell's Company in
Colonel Dike's Regiment.
Dec. 14, 1776 Thomas White Drummer of Groton.
ditto Ebenezer Farnsworth, Pvt. Groton.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XXVI.
p.422.
p.81 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Captain Josiah White who lived in Spencer.
A Return of the men inlisted into the Contental
Service out of my Company in the year 1777, during
the war, or three years.
Name Town Towns for Capt. under Colonel Time when
belonged to which which under their
they enlisted which Enlistment
Enlisted or they they ended.
were hired. Inlisted Served
__________________________________________________________________
David Williams Groton Spencer Capt. Stone Col. Brewer 3 yrs.
The above is a true account of the man enlisted out of my Company
in Col. Denny's Regiment Attest: Josiah White, Capt.
Worcester ss Charlston - February 16, 1778.
Personally appeared before me, Capt. Josiah White, Sr. and made
Oath that the within account is just and true. Before me:
Abijah Lamb, Committee.
Indorsed - Captain White of Spencer, Mass. 1778.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XLI, 190.
Names of Men Enlisted into the Continental Army in Alphabetical
Order, three year men, from 1777.
County of Middlesex, Mass.
___________________________________________________________
Men's Names Towns to which Town enlisted or
they belong where hired.
Eliezer Ames Groton Groton
Caleb Blood, Jr. Groton Groton
John Blood Groton Groton
Aaron Bigelow Groton Groton
Wm. Bancroft Groton Groton
William Conn Groton Groton
Samuel Cole Falmouth Groton
Thomas Coleman Groton Groton
David Cragg Groton Groton
Joseph Clough Petersborough Groton
Edmund Farnsworth Groton Groton
_________________________________________________________
p.82 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
David Farwell Groton Groton
Cato Frye Andover Groton
Thomas Farrington, Jr. Groton Groton
Gilden Arnold Casco Bay Groton
Simeon Gould Groton Groton
John Gragg, Jr. Groton Groton
Jesse Garfield Cambridge Groton
Daniel Gilson Groton Groton
Daniel Gilson, Jr. Groton Groton
Richard Holden Groton Groton
Elisha Hoitt Groton Groton
Joel Jenkins Groton Groton
William Kemp Groton Groton
Michael Keening Cambridge Groton
Phinehas Kemp Groton Groton
Zachias Longley Groton Groton
Asa Longley Groton Groton
Zachias Longley, Jr. Groton Groton
Henry McNeil Groton Groton
Timothy Mixer Petersborough Groton
Samuel Mitchell Petersborough Groton
Joseph Nutting Groton Groton
Benjamin Parker Groton Groton
Isaac Phillips Groton Groton
Jonas Proctor Groton Groton
James Peirt Pepperell Pepperell
Charles Proctor Groton Groton
Benjamin Peirce Groton Groton
Solomon Russell Groton Groton
Nathaniel Russell Groton Groton
Samuel Thompson Groton Groton
Samuel Taylor Acton Groton
Edmund Trowbridge Groton Groton
Nathaniel William Groton Groton
Peter Youngman Westford Groton
p.83 Groton Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel A. Green
The three following orders were bound among the Fitch
papers, given to me by Mrs. Rowe, but, according to the
Pay-rolls, the men signing them did not belong to Captain
Fitch's Company.
Merrimack, March 10, 1777.
Captain Moor's: Sir, please to pay Lieut. Walker all my
pay that is due to me as a soldier in the Continental
army and this shall discharge you from me.
As witness my hand,
Samuel Ayer.
Groton, Sept. ye 9, 1777. Then read the contents in full.
Gideon Davis.
Addressed - Zaccheus Walker, Lieutenant.
Merrimac - March 14, 1777.
Captain Moors - Sir please to pay Leiut. Walker all my
pay that is due to me as a soldier in the Continental
army and this discharge you from me:
As Witness my Hand, James Macy.
Groton, September, 1777 - Read the contents in full.
Gideon Davis.
Addressed to: Zaccheus Walker, Lieutenant.
To Captain Joseph Moores - Please to pay to Zechariah
Fitch the full of my wages for Continental Service and
this with his receipt shall be your charge. Daniel Kezar.
(Indorsed) an Order.
p.84 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
a List of men raised by the County of Middlesex, in the
State of Massachusetts-Bay, for the purpose of filling
up and completing the fifteen battalions of Continental
troops directed to be raised in that State for the term
of nine months from the time of their arrival at Fish-
Kill, agreeable to a resolve of the General Court, passed
April 20, 1778.
Number Names Towns Remarks.
64 Nathaniel Corey Groton June 20th
65 John Shipley Groton
66 Shattuck Bird
67 Eleazer Green
88 Jonathan Coburn Groton
106 Joseph Taylor Groton
119 Joseph Page Groton
120 Henry Davis Groton
121 John Pearce Groton
122 Francis White Groton
123 Ebenezer Farnsworth Groton
124 Isaac Warren Groton June 21st.
___________________________________________________________
Received July 20, 1778 of Jonathan Warner, Commissioner,
One hundred & thirty-one men, included in the above list
for the purpose therein mentioned. R. Putnam, Colonel.
Indorsed: County of Middlesex, Mass.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary War, I.V. File L, 17.
p.85 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
A List of the Men Procured for the term of nine months from
the time of their arrival at Fish Kill.
(Revolutionary War -- at the base of the Fishkill Ridge
was an American Encampment from the Revolutionary War.
The Fishkill depot was the major supply depot for the
Continental Army and for the fort at West Point. To
protect the supply depot, the Continental Army heavily
fortified Wiccopee Pass at Fishkill.)
Middlesex County, Massachusetts.
Arrival No. Names, & Towns Regiment Company Stature
they belong to.
___________________________________________________________
1778 Groton
June 19 1 Nathan Cory Reed's 1st Company 5'9"
June 20 2 John Shipley, Jr. Reed's 2nd Company 5'8"
June 20 3 Shatock Blood Jr. Reed's 2nd Company 5'9"
June 20 4 Eleazer Green Jr. Reed's 2nd Company 5'10"
June 21 5 Jonathan Coburn Reed's 2nd Company 5'7"
June 21 6 Joseph Taylor Reed's 1st Company 6'
June 21 7 Isaac Warren Reed's 1st Company 5'10"
June 21 8 Henry Davis Reed's 1st Company 5'9"
June 21 9 Joseph Page Reed's 1st Company 5'7"
June 21 10 John Peirce Reed's 1st Company 5'10"
June 21 11 Francis White Reed's 1st Company 5'8"
June 21 12 Ebenezer Farnsworth, Jr.
Reed's 1st Company 5'5"
July 11 13 Josiah Stevens Reed's 1st Company 5'10"
July 11 14 Joseph Frost Reed's 1st Company 5'11"
Stow, Mass.
August 6. Isaac Dodge Reed's 1st Company 5'10"
This Isaac Dodge belongs to Groton - he arrived June 23rd.
____________________________________________________________
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XXVIII, 160.
p.86 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
The Pay role of Capt. Moses Barns' Company in Lieut. Col.
Pierce's Regiment from the Massachusetts Bay, now in the
service of the United States for the term of two months
from the 1st of May, 1779 to the 1st of July 1779 - Also
a day's pay for every twenty miles travel returning home.
Name Rank, Towns Miles Time Time
they belong to of en- of
listment Service.
month/days
____________________________________________________________
Cotton Proctor Serg't Groton 80 May 17 1-14
Roger Lawrence Priv't Groton 80 May 17 1-14
Calvin Russell Priv't Groton 80 May 17 1-14
Ezekiel Porter Priv't Groton 80 May 17 1-14
_____________________________________________________________
Moses Barnes, Captain.
N.B. The Original Sworn to before Mr. Justice Metcalf.
Colonel Peirce's Regiment, Captain Moses Barnes - Role for
State Pay for Service in Rhode Island, paid by a Resolve passed
April 30th, 1779.
Examined & found due £1,018.1.4 - Jonathan Metcalf, per Order.
Copy - S. Moore. Examined and the above sum is found d
In Council, September 7, 1779 - Read & Allowed & ordered that
it be drawn on ye Treasury for £1,018.1.4 in full of this Roll.
Jno. Avery, D. Section.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, I. 70.
p.87 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
A List of Men Raised (agreeable to a Resolve of Court of the
9th of June, 1779 in the County of Middlesex, Massachusetts.
NAME TOWN
Levi Lawrence Groton
Joseph Moor, Jr. Groton
Jonas Blood Groton
John Trowbridge Groton
William Parker Groton
Gabriel Lakin Groton
Moses Ames Groton
Robert Parker Groton
Isaac Lawrence, Jun'r Groton
Samuel Parker Groton
per Joseph Hosmer,
Superintendant
for Middlesex
November 24, 1779
Indorsed - Middlesex, November 24, 1779.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XLI.125.
_____________
Captain Thomas Hovey was of Cambridge, Massachusetts.
A Pay Roll of Capt. Thomas Hovey's Company, Colonel
Nathan Tyler's Regiment, of New Leavies from the Mass.
State for their State Pay for Service Done In the State
Of Rhode Island from the 24th of June to the 1st Day of
December, Agreeable to a Resolve of Court Past the 8th
of June, 1779.
______________________________________________________
Name Rank Town From Miles Time in Service
allowing 1 day's
pay for every 20
Miles Home.
Months - Days
_____________________________________________________________
David Blood Private Groton 100 1 - 5
Daniel Fletcher Private Groton 100 1 - 5
Jonas Kemp Private Groton 100 1 - 5
______________________________________________________________
p.89 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
ADDITIONAL LEVIES.
I do swear that the within Pay Roll is the present true and
Just without fraud to the United States or any individual
according to my best knowledge. Thomas Hovey, Captain.
Sworn before me this 6th Day of December, 1779.
E. Cornell
Examined and found Due £ 1753.0.8
Ezra Sargeant - per order.
Examined & the above sum of £ 1753.0.8 is found due.
A Fuller per order to be made payable to Col. Nathan Tyler.
to be continued - Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth
In Council, January 11, 1780 - Received & Allowed & Ordered
that a warrant be drawn on the Treasury for £1753.8, in full
of this Roll. Jonathan Avery, D. Sec.
Indorsed. Pay roll of Captain Hovey's Company for State Pay
for Service done at Rhode Island, the month of December, 1779.
Colonel Tyler's Regiment.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, II.132.
Pay Roll of Captain Thomas Hovey's Company in Colonel Natha
Tyler's Regiment of New Levies from the State of Massachusetts
Bay for their State pay for service done in the month of Dec-
ember, 1779 at the state of Rhode Island.
Name Rank Town from Miles Time in Service
days
___________________________________________________________
David Blood Pvt. Groton 100 27
Daniel Fletcher Pvt. Groton 100 30
Jonas Kemp Pvt. Groton 100 27
Asa Kemp Pvt. Groto 100 27
__________________________________________________________
Thomas Hovey, Captain.
N.B. The original sworn to before Mr. Fisher, Justice.
Examined and found due, £1,302.14.8 - Ezra Sargeant per
order.
p.90 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Examined & the above sum of £ 1,302-14-8 is found due. A
fuller order Copy in Council, May 10, 1780.
Indorsed. Colonel Tyler's Regiment - a pay-roll of Captain
Thomas Hovey's for the month of December for State pay for
service at Rhode Island.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, II. 129.
A descriptive List of the 8th Division of Six Month's Men
raised to reinforce the Continental Army, marched from
Springfield, Mass., under the command of Mr. Ebenezer Kent,
July ye 8th, 1780.
Name Age Stature Complexion Town Arrival at
Springfield.
______________________________________________________________
Ezekiel Porter 17 5'10" Ruddy Groton July 8th
Job Shattuck 21 5'8" Dark Groton "
Simeon Lakin 20 6'1" Light Groton "
Samuel Blood 18 5'10" Light Groton "
Daniel Fletcher 17 5'2" Light Groton "
Nath'l Blanchard 20 5'6" Light Groton "
Benjamin Tarbell 18 5'4" Light Groton "
William Farwell 18 6'0" Light Groton "
Charleston Edes 30 5'8" Negro Groton "
______________________________________________________________
Springfield, July 8, 1780.
Received of Justin Ely, Esq., Commissioner for the State of
Massachusetts Bay, the one hundred and thirty three men ment-
ioned in the within lists being raised to re-inforce the
Continental Army, for six months agreeable to a Resolve of
the General Court of said State, of the 5th of June, last
past and forwarded said men together with Descriptive Lists
of the same, under the command of Mr. Ebenezer Kent.
Jno. Glover, Brigadier General.
A True Copy, Examined per Justin Ely, Commissioner.
Indorsed. List of the Eighth Division of Six-month's Men
who marched with Mr. Kent, July 8th, 1780 - 133 men.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XXXV.189.
p.91 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
ADDITIONAL LEVIES.
A Descriptive List of the 11th Division of Six Months' Men
marched from Springfield with Ensign Bancroft, July 11, 1780.
Name Age Stature Complexion Town Arrival at
Springfield.
______________________________________________________________
Levi Lawrance 20 5'10" Ruddy Groton July 9th
Moses Ames 20 5'11" Ruddy Groton "
Peter Stephens 18 5'6" Dark Groton "
Eben'z Tarbell 18 5'6" Ruddy Groton "
John Trowbridge 18 5'7" Ruddy Groton "
Salmon Whitney 20 5'7" Light Groton "
Ephraim Stone 17 5'6" Light Groton "
Thadeus Bancroft 26 5'11" Ruddy Groton "
Eben'r Farnsworth 22 5'6" Ruddy Groton "
Simeon Kemp 19 5'9" Ruddy Groton "
Richard Holden 19 5'7" Ruddy Groton "
___________________________________________________________
Springfield - July 11, 1780.
Received of Justin Ely, Esq., Commissioner for the State of
Massachusetts Bay, the One Hundred & Seventy-Seven Men born
on the within Lists, together with Descriptive Lists of the
same - being raised to re-inforce the Continental Army, for
six months, agreeable to a Resolve of the General Court of
Massachusetts, of the 5th of June, last past, and forwarded
said men to the Army, under the care of Ensign Bancroft.
Jonathan Glover, Brig. General.
A True Copy, examined per Justin Ely, Commissioner.
Indorsed - Descriptive List of the 11th Division of Six-
Months Men - Marched under the care of Ensign Bancroft,
July 11th, 1780 - 177 Men.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XXXV.192.
p.92 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel A. Green.
A Descriptive List of the 18th Division of Six Months' Men
who marched from Springfield under the care of Lieut. Zebulon
King, July ye 16th, 1780.
Name Age Stature Complexion Town Arrival at
Springfield.
________________________________________________________________
Samuel Parker 16 5'4" Light Groton July 16, 1780
Rogers Lawrance 16 5'5" Light Groton ditto
Benjamin Moors 17 5'6" Light Groton ditto
__________________________________________________________________
Springfield, July 16, 1780.
Received of Justin Ely, Esq., Commissioner for the State of Massa-
chusetts Bay, the 62 men mentioned on the within List (together
with descriptive lists of the same) being raised to re-inforce
the Continental Army for six months, agreeable to a Resolved of
the General Court of said State of the 5th of June last past
and forwarded said men to the Army, under care of Lieut. Zebulon
King. Jno. Glover, Brigadier General.
A True Copy. Examined per Justin Ely, Commissioner.
Indorsed. 18th Division of Six Month's Men, Marched July ye 16th
1780. Lieut. King - 60 Men.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers - XXXV.200.
A Descriptive List of the Twenty-Second Division of Sox Months'
Men who marched from Springfield under the Care of Capt. Benja-
in Warren, July 20th, 1780.
John Gregg Age 22 5'7" Light Groton July 20th
_________________________________________________________________
p.93 ADDITIONAL LEVIES.
Springfield July 20, 1780.
Received of Justin Ely, Esq., Commissioner for the State of
Massachusetts Bay, the fifty seven men born on the within
List, together with a descriptive list of the same - being
raised to reinforce the Continental Army for six months,
agreeable to a Resolve of the General Court of said state,
of the 5th of June last past and forwarded said men to the
Army, under the care of Captain Benjamin Warren.
Jno. Glover, Brig. General.
A True Copy.
Examined by Justin Ely, Commissioner.
Indorsed 22nd Division of Six Months' Men July ye 20th,
1780. Captain Benjamin Warren 58 Men.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XXXV. 204.
A List of the Six Months Men received of Major Joseph
Hosmer, Superintendant of ye County of Middlesex, agree-
able to a Resolve of ye General Court, passed June ye 5th,
1780.
Name Town Name Town
Ezekiel Porter Groton Ebenezer Tarbell Groton
Job Shattuck Groton John Trowbridge Groton
Simeon Lakin Groton Salmon Whitney Groton
Samuel Blood Groton Ephraim Stone Groton
Daniel Fletcher Groton Thaddeux Bancroft Groton
Nathaniel Blanchard Groton Ebenezer Farnsworth Groton
Benjamin Tarbell Groton Simeon Kemp Groton
William Farwell Groton Richard Holden Groton
Charleston Edes Groton Samuel Parker Groton
Levi Lawrance Groton Rogers Lawrance Groton
Moses Eames Groton Benjamin Moores Groton
Peter Stevens Groton John Gregg Groton
Springfield. August 6, 1780.
Received of Major Joseph Hosmer, Superintendant for the
County of Middlesex, Massachusetts - the Men mentioned in
this List being raised to serve six months in the Contin-
ental Army, agreeable to a Resolove of the General Court
of Massachusetts, the 5th of June last past
by Justin Ely, Commissioner.
Indorsed. Justin Ely's Record of six months' Men to Major
Hosmer.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, LIV. File F,
30.
p.94 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green, Groton, Mass.
MIDDLESEX SS.
A Pay Roll for the Six months men who were in actual
Service in the Continental Army for 1780; in behalf of
the town of Groton, Massachusetts, made up by us, the
Subscribers, agreeable to the resolves of the General
Court of Massachusetts, of the 3rd of October, 1781.
NAMES TIME WHEN MARCHED TIME DISCHARGED MILES DAYS
Levi Lawrence July 4, 1780 Dec. 18th 220 5-26
Richard Holden July 4, 1780 Dec. 12th 220 5-20
Job Shattuck, Jr. June 26, 1780 Jan 1, 1781 220 6-18
Moses Ames July 4, 1780 Dec 26, 1781 200 6-3
Peter Stevens, Jr. July 4, 1780 Jan 9, 1781 220 6-16
John Trowbridge Jr. July 4, 1780 Jan 9, 1781 220 6-16
Ephraim Stone July 4, 1780 Jan 9, 1781 220 6-16
Ebenezer Tarbell July 4, 1780 Jan 9, 1781 220 6-16
Ebenezer Farnsworth, Jr. do Dec 4, 1781 220 5-11
Thaddeus Bancroft July 8, 1780 Nov 19, 1781 220 4-23
Salmon Whitney July 4, 1780 Jan 9, 1781 220 6-16
Benjamin Moors July 8, 1780 Dec 5, 1781 220 5-9
John Gragg, Jr. July 8, 1780 Dec 5, 1781 220 -
Rogers Lawrence July 8, 1780 Dec 13, 1781 220 5-16
Nath'l Blanchard July 4, 1780 Jan 9, 1782 220 6-16
Ezekiel Porter July 4, 1780 Jan 9, 1782 220 6-16
Wm. Farwell, Jr. July 4, 1780 Jan 9, 1782 220 6-16
Benja Tarbell, Jr. July 4, 1780 Jan 9, 1782 220 4-26
Samuel Parker July 8, 1780 Jan 9, 1782 220 6-12
Daniel Fletcher July 4, 1780 Jan 9, 1782 220 6-16
Samuel Blood July 4, 1780 Jan 9, 1782 220 6-16
Charleston Edes July 4, 1780 Jan 8, 1782 220 6-16
Samuel Blood July 4, 1780 Jan 8, 1782 220 6-16
Charlestown Edes July 4, 1780 Dec 3, 1782 220 5-11
Simeon Lakin July 4, 1780 Nov 19, 1782 220 4-26
______________________________________________________________
All the above Oliver Prescott
(Two lines missing here) Job Shattuck
Solomon Woods
Selectmen of Groton.
p.95 ADDITIONAL LEVIES
Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel A. Green
Middlesex ss 28th January, 1782.
Job Shattuck and Solomon Woods made solemn Oath that in making
up the above Roll they acted faithfully & impartially and that
the same is just and true according to the best of their judge-
ments.
Before me, Oliver Prescott, Justice of the Peace.
A true copy.
A Pay Roll for the Six Month men for the Town of Groton, 1780.
Examined and found Due in Specie - £264.1.-, Ezra Sargeant.
Per order. Examined & the above sum is found due - A. Fuller.
Per order. Copy.
In Council February 18, 1782. Read and advised that a warrant
be drawn on the Treasury for £264.1.4, in full of this Roll.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, IV.81.
A List of the Six Month's Men raised to re-inforce the
Continental Army, agreeable to two Resolves of the General
Court, passed in June, 1780, posted up to their respective
Towns from the Receipts of the Continental Officers.
by Justin Ely, Commissioner.
_____________________________________________________________
Groton Division in
which Mustered.
______________________________________
Ezekiel Porter 8 Ebenezer Tarbell 11
Job Shattuck 8 John Trowbridge 11
Simeon Lakin 8 Salmon Whitney 11
Samuel Blood 8 Ephraim Stone 11
Daniel Fletcher 8 Thaddeus Bancroft 11
Nathaniel Blanchard 8 Ebenezer Farnsworth 11
Benjamin Tarbell 8 Simeon Kemp 11
William Farwell 8 Richard Holden 11
Charleston Edes 8 Samuel Parker 18
Levi Lawrence 11 Rogers Lawrence 18
Moses Ames 11 Benjamin Morse 18
Peter Stephens 11 John Gregg 22
_____________________________________________________________
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XXVII. 12.
p.96 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTION.
An account of the Men mustered in the County of Middlesex,
Since the Last Return.
GROTON.
March 28, 1781 - Eleazer Green
" Joseph Lakin
" Oliver Lakin
" Oliver Lakin, Jr.
March 20, 1781 William Tarbell.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, LIV. File F, 28.
Commonwealth of Massachuetts to the Selectmen of the town of
Groton. Dr.
For the boundy or hire of twenty one men to serve in the Con-
tinental Army for three years, or during the War, agreeable to
the Resolves of the General Court of December and February last,
viz.
William Tarbell £90 0 0
Oliver Lakin, Jr. 95 12 0
Ezekiel Porter 93 10 0
John Stevens 93 10 0
Moses Chase 94
Charlestown Edes 90
John Pierce 78 12 0
Harbor Farnsworth 98 8 0
Joshua Parker 91 4 0
Elijah Nutting 90
David Farwell 90
Asa White 90
Amos Dole 98 2 0
Eleazer Green, Jun'r 98 16 5
Joseph Bancroft 93 10 0
John Goddard 90
Edmund Holden 90
Amos Shed 87
Benjamin Tarbell, Jun'r 90 6 0
Calvin Russell 93
Joseph Lakin 93
________________
Hard money £1928 10 5
Specie.
p.97 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green
N.B. Two of the above named men, viz., Calvin Russell and
Joseph Lakin, were hired and mustered in Season.
Tis expected the said Russell will join the Army immediately.
The said Lakin is absconded.
Oliver Prescott
Isaac Farnsworth
Solomon Woods
Selectmen of Groton.
Middlesex manuscripts - November 6, 1781.
Dr. Isaac Farnsworth and Capt. Solomon Woods, two of the
Selectmen above named, personally appeared and made oath
that the foregoing return by them subscribed, was true to
the best of their knowledge. Before me,
Oliver Prescott, Justice of
the Peace.
Groton Return of the 3 years men by resolve of the
2nd of December, 1780.
7 men @ 90£ £630: 0:
3 men @ 93:10 280:10/
2 men @ 93 186: 0
1 man @ 93 95:12/
1 man @ 93 94
1 man @ 93 78:12/
1 man @ 93 98:8/
1 man @ 93 91:2/
1 man @ 93 98:2/
1 man @ 93 98:16/5
1 man @ 93 87:
1 man @ 93 90: 6/
__________________________________________
21 Men £1928:10/5.
1781 Specie.
Indorsed - Return of three years men.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XXXII. 578.
p.98 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
____________________________________________________
The following is a List of men procured in consequence
of a resolve of Court, of the 2nd of December, 1780, in
the County of Middlesex, Massachusetts, for a Term Less
than three years - vis
---------------------------------------------
Date of Installment Names Town for which For what Time
Engaged Engaged.
_______________________________________________________________
1781.
November 20 Amos Woods Groton one year.
_________________________________________________
February 11, 1782 per Joseph Hosmer, Superintendant
for Middlesex.
Indorsed, Joseph Hosmer, Superintendant for Middlesex
return of Men for three Years by a Resolve of Court pass-
ed December 2, 1780. 37 men.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XXXII, 599.
HOSMER'S BOOK, NO. 1.
Date of
Inlist-
ment Names Age Stature Complect'n Eyes Trade Town Time
1781
Mar 20 Asa White 21 5'10" Light Light Farmer Groton 3 yrs
Mar 28 Moses Chase 21 5' 8" Dark Dark " " "
Mar 23 John Goddard 16 5' 9" Light Light " " "
Mar 24 Ben Tarbell 19 5' 5" Light Light " " "
Mar 21 Amos Shedd 17 5' 6" Dark Light " " "
Mar 20 Edmond Holden 16 5' 2" Light Dark " " "
Mar 1 Joseph Stephens 22 5' 6" Dark Dark " " "
Mar 20 John Peirce 50 5' 10" Dark Dark " " "
Mar 21 Ezek Porter 18 5' 11" Dark Dark " " "
Mar 19 Harbor Farnsworth 24 5'6" Dark Dark " " "
Mar 20 William Tarbell 17 5'4" Light Light " " "
May 1 Calvin Russell 20 5'9" Dark Dark Cordwaner " "
Dec 22 David Farwell 16 5'3" Light Light Farmer " 3 yrs
Jan 31 Joshua Parker 17 5'2" Light Light " " "
Mar 26 Charlston Edes 32 5'8" Black Black " " "
Mar 9 Joseph Bancroft 21 5'9" Light Dark " " "
Apr 1 Amos Dole 21 5'7" Light Dark " " "
Apr 26 John Nutting 42 5'10" Light Dark " " "
Mar 22 Elijah Nutting 17 5'8" Light Dark " " "
Apr 1 Eleazer Green 27 5'9" Light Dark " " "
Nov 20 Amos Woods 32 5'7" Light Sandy " " 1yr 21
days.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary War Papers. File F, 29.
_____________________________________________________________________
p.100 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
CLASSES OF SOLDIERS.
The following Resolve, passed by the General Court on December 2,
1780, explains the division of the inhabitants into various "classes"
as mentioned below. Under the call ordered at this time, the Town
of Groton was directed to raise twenty-one men for the Continental
Army toward the 4,240 which were needed to complete the quota of
the Commonwealth. On February 26, 1781, a supplementary Resolve
was passed; and still later, on March 7, 1782, another Resolve,
under which the latter call the town was ordered to raise eight
men for the Army, toward the 1,500 which were then needed.
And it is further resolved that the several towns and plantations
within this Commonwealth be, and hereby are authorized to agree
if they think fit, upon classing the inhabitants thereof at a
legal town meeting called for that purpose, in order to procure
their proportion of soldiers to serve in the Continental Army for
three years, or during the war: And in all towns and plantations
where the mode of classing shall be adopted, the Selectmen of such
towns, and the assessors of such plantations, or such committee as
the town or plantation shall appoint for that purpose, shall divide
all the inhabitants thereof, with others who were assessed in the
hard-money-tax, into as many classes as according to the annexed
schedule, there are men required of such town or plantation, in
proportion to their several taxes, intermixing poor with the rich,
so as to make the several classes as nearly equal in property and
in number of polls as may be with convenience; and each of said
classes shall, on or before the 20th day of January, next, procure
a good able-bodied effective soldier to serve in the Continental
army for three years, or during the war, unless such town or
plantation shall in some other way procure the whole number of
soldiers to be, by them, raised: and that in case anyone or more
of said classes shall neglect or refuse to procure the soldiers
assigned them, within the limited time aforesaid, such town or
plantation is hereby empowered and directed
p.101 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
to procure such soldier for each class so neglecting of such town
or plantation, and the assessors shall assess said classes, or the
several neglecting individuals thereof, in the same proportion they
were severally assessed in the hard-money-tax, the full value of the
sum which shall be expended in procuring said soldier, with an addi-
tional sum not exceeding double the sum advanced to procure the said
soldier, as the said town shall determine; and the several collect-
ors of such towns or plantations are hereby authorized and required
to collect said assessments in the same manner as they are directed
by law to collect town taxes, and pay in the same, according to the
direction contained in the Warrant which they may receive from the
Selectmen or assessors of such towns or plantations for the purpose
of collecting said assessments; and the said selectmen or assessors
are hereby authorized to grant such warrants, agreeable to the form
by law prescribed for collecting town taxes, mutatis mutandis.
(pp. 42, 43.)
the following receipts given by soldiers are found in Volume XXXII,
of the Archives, Revolutionary Papers; and the number of the paper
in the volume is indicated in heave-faced type after each receipt.
I do hereby acknowledge that I have received of the Town of Groton
by Class No. 4 in Money and Securities, Two Hundred and Ninety
Spanish Milled Dollars for my hire as a soldier in the Continental
Service for the Term of three Years. Witness my hand, this 6th day
of April, 1781. Amos Shed.
557.
Groton, April 6, 1781. I do hereby acknowledge that I have received
of Class No. 7, in Groton, aforesaid, three hundred Spanish Mill'd
Dollars in money paid and Security Given, in full for my engaging
to Serve in the Continental Service for the term of three years from
the time of my Inlistment - witness my hand - John Goddard.
558
I do hereby acknowledge I have Received of Class No. 2 in Groton,
ninety-three pounds ten shillings in money paid and security given
by said Class, in Silver at Six Shillings and Eight pence per ounce,
p.102
in full for my hire as a Soldier in the Continental Service for
the term of three years from the time of my Inlistment - witness
my hand. Joseph Bancroft.
559. April 6th, 1781.
Received of the Town of Groton by Class No. 14 - Ninety-four
Pounds in Silver Money, in Money and Securities for my hire as
a soldier in the Continental Service for the Term of three years.
Witness my hand this 23d Day of April, 1781, at Groton.
Moses Chase.
560. Groton, March 19, 1781.
Received of Captain John Sawtell & others belonging to said
Sawtell's Class (No. 17) three Hundred & Twenty Eight Silver
Dollars, in full consideration for my Bounty from said Class,
as a Soldier in the Continental Army for the Term of three
years, unless sooner Regularly Discharged. I say Received by
me. Harbor Farnsworth.
Insert: Harbor Farnsworth - Source: Farnsworth Memorial.
p.53
Harbor Farnsworth was born June 10, 1756, a son of Ebenezer
Farnsworth and his wife, Mary Nichols of Boston, Mass. He was
named "Harbor" because he was born on a boat in the Boston
Harbor. He died March 5, 1820. He married on March 12, 1778,
Lucy Hale (or Heald) b. May 12, 1757 at Groton, Mass., a dau.
of Isaac & Tamar (Whitcomb) Heald, who died Jan 29, 1838. They
resided in the town of Harvard, Mass.
Groton, April 16th, 1781 - I do hereby acknowledge that I have
received of the Town of Groton, aforesaid, Two Hundred & Sixty-
two Spanish milled Dollars by Class No. 18, in money & Securi-
ties for my hire as a Soldier in the Continental Service for
the term of three years.
Test. William Swan John Peirce
his mark.
562.
Groton, April 6th, 1781. I do hereby acknowledge that I have
Received of Class No. 15, in Groton's aforesaid, Three Hundred
Spanish Dollars in money paid and Security given in full for my
engaging to Serve in the Continental Service for the term of
three years from the time of my inlistment. Witness my hand.
563. Elijah Nutting.
I do hereby Acknowledge that I have received of Class No. 7,
in Groton, ninety eight pounds, sixteen shillings and five
pence in Money paid and Security given by Solomon Woods, in
silver at the rate of six shillings & eight pence in full for
my hire as a soldier in the Continental Service for the term of
three years. Witness my hand, this 6th day of April, 1781.
Eleazer Green, Jr.
564.
p.103 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
CLASSES OF SOLDIERS.
This Certifies that I have received of Isaac Farnsworth and
others belonging to Class No. 19, in the Town of Groton, in
Silver, paper currency and securities, the amount of Ninety-
three pounds, ten shillings, in silver and six shillings and
eight pence per ounce, as a hire from said class, for my en-
listing into the Continental Service for the term of three
years in behalf of said Town.
565. Groton, April 5th, 1781. Per John Stevens.
Groton, April 6, 1781. I do hereby acknowledge that I have
received of said Town by Class No. 9, in money paid and securi-
ties given three hundred Spanish milled Dollars in full for my
engaging to serve in the Continental Service for the Term of
three years. Witness my hand, Edmund Holden.
566.
I do hereby acknowledge that I have received of the Town of
Groton, by Class No. 13, in money and Securities, three hundred
Spanish milled dollars for my hire as a soldier in the Continen-
tal Service for the Term of three yeas. Witness my hand this 6th
day of April, 1781. Asa White.
567. (Indorsed) Asa White, Groton.
Groton, April 23d, 1781. This certifies that I have agreed with
Class No. 6, in said Town, for the sum of three hundred Spanish
milled dollars as a hire for my inlisting as a Soldier into the
Continental Service for the term of three years in behalf of
said Town -
Test Charleston (X) Edes
His mark.
Josiah Hobart.
568.
Groton, April 23d, 1781. Rec'd of the Town of Groton by Class
No. 12, Three hundred Spanish Milled Dollars in Money and
Securities, for my hire as a soldier in the Continental Serv-
ice for the Term of three years. William Tarbell.
569.
I do hereby acknowledge that I have Received of Class No. 3
in Groton, Ninety three pounds, ten shillings in money paid
and Security given by said Class, in silver at six shillings
and eight pence
p.104 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
By Dr. Samuel A. Green.
per ounce in full for my hire as a Soldier in the Continental
Service for the term of three years from the time of my Inlist-
ment. Witness my hand. Ezekiel Porter
April 6th, 1781.
570.
Groton, April 6th, 1781. I do hereby acknowledge that I have
rec'd of Class No. 16 in Groton, aforesaid, Three Hundred and
one Spanish milled Dollars in money paid and Security Given in
full for my engaging to serve in the Continental Service for
the term of three years from the time of my Inlistment -
Witness my hand - Benjamin Tarbell, Jun'r.
571.
I do hereby acknowledge that I have Received of the Town of
Groton by Class No. 5 in money and Securities, three hundred
Spanish milled dollars for my hire as a soldier in the Contin-
ental Service for the Term of three years. Witness my hand this
6th day of April, 1781. David Farwell
572.
I do hereby acknowledge that I have Received of Class No. 10,
in Groton, Ninety Eight pounds two shillings in money paid and
Security given by said Class in Silver at Six Shillings and
eight pence per ounce in full for my hire as a soldier in the
Continental Service for the term of three years from the time
of my Inlistment. Witness my hand.
Amos Dole
April 6th, 1781.
573.
I do hereby acknowledge that I have Received of Class No. 11
in the Town of Groton, Ninety five pounds, twelve shillings in
money paid and Security Given by said Class, in Silver at Six
Shillings and Eight pence per ounce in full, for my hire as a
Soldier in the Continental Service for the term of three years
from the time of my Inliestment. Witness my hand.
Oliver Lakin, Jr.
April 6, 1781.
574.
p.105 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
CLASSES OF SOLDIERS.
I, the Subscriber do hereby Acknowledge that I have this day
received of James Prescott, William Swan and Zachariah Fitch,
a Committee of the Town of Groton, Three Hundred & four Spanish
milled dollars in money paid and Security given for my hire as
a soldier in the Continental Army for the term of three yeas as
Witness my hand this 31st Day of January, 1781.
Abijah Prescott Joshua Parker
Jonathan Keep.
579. Indorsed - Groton.
The next seven receipts are on printed blanks which are filled
in, according to the facts in each case, the date, name, number,
place, amount, term, and signature being written.
Boston, April 30, 1782.
Received of Mr. Joseph Allen, Chairman of Class No. 3, for the
Town of Groton, the sum of Ninety Pounds, legal money, as a
Bounty to serve in the Continental Army for ther term of three
years. Witness my hand, John Frost.
636. Indorsed - Groton. No.3 £90-0 4 men @ 90£ £360: 0 1782.
Boston, April 11, 1782.
Received of Mr. Ezekiel Fletcher, Chairman of Class No. 5 for
the town of Groton, the sum of Ninety Pounds legal money, as a
bounty to serve in the Continental Army for the Term of three
years. Witness my hand, Eleazer Ames.
Boston, June 6, 1782.
Received of Mr. Thomas Bond, Chairman of Class No. 2 for the
Town of Groton, the sum of ninety pounds legal money, as a
Bounty to serve in the Continental Army for ther Term of
three years. Witness my hand, Oliver Hartwell.
638. Indorsed - Groton No. 2.
p.106 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Boston, April 11, 1782.
Received of Israel Hobart, Esq., Chairman of Class No. 7 for
the Town of Groton the sum of Ninety Pounds legal Money, as
a Bounty to serve in the Continental Army for the Term of
three years. Witness my Hand, Samson Prescott.
639. Indorsed - Groton No. 7.
Boston, 21st. August, 1782.
Mustered and received of Mr. Zachariah Fitch, Chairman of
Class No. 8 for the Town of Groton, a certain Chandler
Russell, a Recruit, enlisted for ther Term of three years.
John Popkin, Muster-Master.
April 20, 1783.
Massachusetts Archives - Revolutionary Papers. XXXII.644.
Boston, 13th August, 1782.
Mustered and received of Mr. Solomon Woods, Chairman of
Class No. one for the Town of Groton, a certain Samuel
Wyman a Recruit, inlisted for the term of three years.
John Popkin, Muster-Master.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers. XXXIII 485.
Boston October 22, 1782.
Mustered and received of Mr. Joseph Moors, Chairman of
Class No. Four for the Town of Groton, a certain Joseph
Stevens, a Recruit, inlisted for the term of three years.
John Popkin, Muster-master.
Received February 13, 1783.
Indorsed - Groton.
Massachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, XXXII.635.
p.107 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
CLASSES OF SOLDIERS.
SIMEON KEMP.
Groton, September 9, 1782.
We hereby certify that Simeon Kemp was a soldier in actual
service for the Town of Groton in the Six months Service in
the Continental Army for 1780. That he did march June 26th
and was discharged on December 14, 1780 and that the number
of miles from the place of his discharge was 220 miles and
that he was in Service six months and eleven days and there-
fore the whole amount of his pay was twelve pounds, fourteen
shillings and eight pence, and that he, the said Simeon Kemp
was omitteed when the Selectmen made up the Muster Roll agree-
able to the resolves of the General Court, by reason of his
certificate of the time of his discharge being mislaid and
therefore forgot.
for Six Month's Service £12.0.
Signed: Oliver Prescott, Abel Bancroft & Zachariah Fitch,
Selectmen for Groton.
Middlesex ss January 27, 1783 - the above named Abel Bancroft
and Zachariah Fitch made solom oath that the foregoing certi-
ficate was true in all its parts, according to their best know-
ledge. Before me, Oliver Prescott, Justic
of the Peace.
A true copy.
Pay Roll for one man that served in the Continental Army from
the Town of Groton, for Six Months in the year 1780 and was
omitted in the other Roll. Examined and found due in Specie:
£12-0-0. (signed) Ezra Sargeant.
In Council, March 20, 1783. Read & Advised that a Warrant be
drawn on the Treasury in full of this Roll. Attest.
Masssachusetts Archives, Revolutionary Papers, IV.70
p.108 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Edmund Holden.
The following is a copy of a paper which was sold with other
manuscripts by Messrs. C. F. Libbie & Company in Boston,
on December 15, 1897, though I do not know to whom. It un-
doubtedly has a connection with Edmund Holden's receipt
printed on p. 103.
This is each man's proportion towards hiring Edmund Holden
as a Soldier in class, ye 9th, at Groton.
£ S D Q
________________________________________________________
Zechariah Fitch 3 7 6 0
Samuel Hemanway 2 1 0 2
Caleb Blood 2 7 3 2
Thomas Bond 3 6 10 0
Samuel Lawrence 1 10 5 2
Abel Farwell X 1 11 4 0
Amos Adams X 0 19 6 0 (Credit
£0-2-0,
1785.)
Ephraim Kemp 0 18 0 0
Samuel Kemp, Jr. X 0 18 0 0
Simeon Nutting X 0 2 9 0
Robertson Lakin X 0 1 9 0
John Simonds X 0 15 4 2
Benjamin Whitney X 0 1 9 0
Widow Rachel Spalding 0 2 10 0
________________________
18 5 9 0
Endorsed - Class Rate.
p.109 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
EXTRACTS FROM THE TOWN RECORDS.
A picture of Groton's Seal.
with its inscription:
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS.
FAITH
HOLY BIBLE
LABOR
1655.
The following extracts, relating to the action of the town
on several occasions during the early part of the Revolution,
are taken from the Town Records. As the Volume for that period
is not numbered, I can indicate only the pages where the ex-
are found. - Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
September 12, 1774.
Voted to raise the sum of Forty pounds to buy arms and
ammunition, in additon to the Town stock, which sum is to
be laid out at the descretion of Mess.'s Moses Child,
Jonathan Clark, Lewis Woods and Isaac Woods, who are a
Committee for that purpose. (p.276)
January 3d. 1775.
The Town met according to adjourment and the proceedings
of the Continental Congress being read and particularly
their Association.
Voted unanimously, that they would abide by their Associa-
tion. Then a draft of a Covenant was read, which was unani-
mously Voted to be accepted.
The proceedings of the last Provincial Congress being read,
the Town unanimously Voted to comply with the same.
p.110 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Then a Draft of a Vote was presented and read in the follow-
ing words, which are accepted and ordered to be recorded:
Whereas it is expressly recommended by the Continental
Congress, to the Provincial Conventions and to the Committee
in the respective Colonies to establish such further regula-
tions as they may think proper for carrying into execution
their Association.
And whereas the Provincial Congress did on the 5th of Decemb-
er, last, Resolve and recommend as their opinion, for the
Effectual Carrying into Execution, the American Congress
Association that from and after the 10th of October, next,
there shall not be sold or purchased any goods, wares or
merchandise directly or indirectly purchased from Great
Britain or from Ireland - molasses, syrups, panels, coffee
or piemento, from the British plantations, or from Dominico,
or wines from Madeirs or the Western Island, and foreign
Indigo, either before or after the 1st of December, Instant,
unless the Acts and parts of Acts of Parliament enumerated
in a paragraph of the American Congress Association subse-
quent to the 14th Article shall then be repealed;
That the several Towns and Districts do forthwith assembel
and choose Committees of Inspection for the purpose afore-
said and that the Towns do vigorously assist and support
their Committee in discharging the duties of their office,
etc.
Therefore Voted and chose:
Dr. Prescott
Capt. Josiah Sartell
Deacon Isaac Farnsworth
Mr. Moses Child
Deacon James Stone
Col. James Prescott
Lieut. Elisha Rockwood
Lieut. Isaac Woods
Joseph Allen
Jonas Stone
John Tarbell
Capt. Jonathan Sawtell
Jonathan Lawrence
Capt. Amos Lawrence
Capt. Henry Farwell.
a Committee of Inspection, whose business it shall be to
see that the American Congress Association, and the
Provincial Congress resolves and recommendations relative
thereto be well and faithfully observed and complyed with
and that this town will not fail of lending all necessary
assistance to said Committee in the doing of their duty.
Then the Meeting was dismissed.
Recorded by Oliver Prescott,
Groton Town Clerk.
(p.280 Town Records)
p.111 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
By Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Extracts from the Town Records.
In consequence of the Town votes as recorded in the pre-
ceeding pages of this book, the Committee of Correspond-
ence, having given Mr. Samuel Dana, Capt. Joseph Sheple,
Jonas Cutler and Joseph Chase the offer of signing the
Association paper and they refusing to sign it, delayed
their posting their names in the public houses for some
time, hoping for accomodation and that a union would take
place, until the inhabitants grew very uneasy and there-
fore, the Committee put up an advertisement in three public
houses in this Town, in the following words, viz. -
Whereas the town of Groton, at a legal meeting on the 7th
day of March, last, voted unanimously that the names of all
the inhabitants of said town, who refused to sign their
Association paper, wherein the Subscribers were obligated
strictly to adhere to the American Continental Association,
should be posted by the Committee of Correspondence in the
several public houses within said town, and their names
should be entered on the Town Book of Records, by the Town
Clerk, that so it might be known which of the said inhabit-
ants are apparently unfriendly to our happy Constitution,
and do so far endeavour to prevent a Union, etc.
In compliance with said vote, we hereby notify the public
that the said Association paper was offered to the Rever-
end Samuel Dana, Joseph Sheple, Jonas Cutler and Joseph
Chase, who did refuse to sign the same and it is expected
that all those who have signed said Association paper will
remember their covenant. Signed by the Committee,
etc. - Groton, April 12th, 1775.
Recorded by Oliver Prescott, Town Clerk.
Sometime after the Lexington battle (so called) Mr. Dana
desired a conference with the persons hereafter named in
the following Memorandum, which he wrote with his own hand
and desired it might be laid before the Town as soon as con-
veniently might be - viz:
This memorandum Witnesseth that at a Conference between
Dr. Oliver Prescott
Capt. Josiah Sartell
Deacon Isaac Farnsworth
Benjamin Bancroft
Ensign Moses Child
Mr. Jonathan Clark Lewis
p.112 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTION.
on the one side and the Reverend Samuel Dana on the other
side, it was proposed and agreed to by all parties that
the pastoral relation betweem said Samuel Dana and the
inhabitants of Groton, should be dissolved on conditions
the Town, when properly met, shall judge it expedient and
at the same time will restore the said Samuell Dana to the
usual privileges and advantages of Society and neighbor-
hood - and use their influence to preserve him his family
and substance from injury and abuse, either from the inhabi-
tants of this or any of the neighboring towns - the said
Samuel Dana, at the same time, giving the town, the reason-
able assurance in his power that he will not only not oppose
their political measures but unite with them agreeable to the
advice of the Continental and Provincial Congresses and the
votes of the Town.
Recorded by Oliver Prescott, Town Clerk.
(p.283.)
May 26, 1777.
Voted that the Selectmen be directed to take the lead weights
out of the Meetin-house windows and cause them to be run into
bullets for the town stock, and that they procure iron weights
and put into said windows as soon as conveniently may be.
(p.309.)
p.113 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Revolutionary Papers.
Among some old manuscripts found in the office of the
Selectmen at Groton, was a small parcel, marked in Mr. Caleb
Butler's handwriting, "Papers relating to the Revolution."
They comprise a dozen or more printed Broadsides, Resolves,
Proclamations, etc., issued during the Revolutionary period,
and numerous certificates and receipts given by officers and
soldiers, besides other writings of a miscellaneous character.
The also comprise, many papers relating to the Shay's Rebell-
ion which for the most part are returns, duly signed by the
proper officers, that various insurgents had delivered up
their arms and had taken the Oath of Allegiance.
Such lists contain the names of more than seventy Groton
men who had been in open rebellion against the State
government. These old manuscripts form an interesting
collection of papers, and throw much side-light on the
military history of Groton during the Revolution and the
period immediately following. I have had them carefully
arranged and placed in a volume, lettered on the back -
"Papers relating to the Revolution;" and they are now in
the possession of the Town Clerk. In order to render
these papers accessible to the local antiquary, I give
copies of them below. While some may seem to be of trif-
ling imporance or value, they all shed new light on the
particular service of individual soldiers.
The signatures to the following paper have been cut off,
so that it is not known what names were originally attach-
ed. Evidently the signers were of Tory proclivities; and
probably the mutilation was not done until after such per-
sons were held in disgrace. The date of the writing is
somewhat uncertain, and there is no good clue to follow.
p.114 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Those of Groton loyal to the King of England.
"May it please your Honors.
With submission, we beg leave to aquaint you that we are,
and desire to continue, subjects to the King of Great Britain.
With submission, we beg leave to acquaint you that we are,
and desire to continue, subjects of the King of Great Britain.
As to independence, we have heard much talk of it, but are
entirely ignorant of its being declared. Certainly, so greast
an Event as this ought not to have been done in a corner,
(notified in one or two towns) - It undoubtedly would have
been published in every sea-port, and market-town through-
out America. It therefore cannot be! It is not so.
Independence on Great Britain is not yet declared, because
if it were, then certainly so wise a body as the Honorable
Congress, would have been consistant with themselves; they
must, they would have elected and proceeded according to
humanity and to Justice, and the usage of Nations at War,
and have issued a Proclamation for such as chose to adhere
to the King, to be allowed a limited time in order to dis-
pose of their effects and to depart the Continent. Had this
been the case, we shold have been gone, where we might have
earned our bread by honest industry.
But now, we are held here by force, and a stagnation of trade
in general through the continent - so that there is not other
alternative left us, but to go into the Army or to starve.
Our conscience will not let us do the former. Again, my please
your Honors, another very forcible reason why Independence is
not yet declared, is that, which might with the greatest reas-
on in the world have been expected at so great an event, so
mighty a turn and change of Government - so great! as not
to be met with in History, excepting only in the case of
Holland. That! May please your Honors which is very looked
for and granted , even at the Crowning of a new King; the
prison doors (the clashing of whose locks and bolts strike
terror to the hearers) are set open and the prisoner in all
matters, murder alone excepted - go free. Once more to have
the pleasure of the fresh air, and looking their merciless
creditor and otherwise oppressors in the face; and to bless
the Cause that set them free. Old things are then done away,
all things become new. This may please your Honours is not
yet done: Therefore, Independence, most assuredly is not yet
publicly declared, because that, so mild a Government as
might reasonably be expected from a Republican form, and its
new Laws, would never stain such an aera by punishing offences
done under a former Government. As to what is alleged against
us, respecting the paper money, nothing is more certain, than
that when this
p.115 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
currency was made and issued out, we, through the continent,
were, to all intent and purposes, King's subjects; and no
law by legal authority in being, to make and issue such a
currency; so that, may please your Honors we utterly deny
our being guilty of an offense against the known laws of
any Kingdom or State. We stand at the King's judgment seat
where we ought to be judged. And by the laws of the Realm,
we desire to stand or fall. But may please your Honors, had
this paper currency at the Declaration of Independence (if
it will be declared) been called in, or allowed by authority
to remain good and in force, also a public law provided for
the punishment of offenders in counterfeiting and defacing
it, the case then, would widely have differed from the pres-
ent; for then, undoubtedly, those caught in doing this might
be justly deemed offenders, liable to punishment by such a
law. Upon the whole, may please your Honours, we beg that
if we have offended against, or violated any law, that it
be pointed out to us, for we are not conscious that we have
violated any Law in Being. And where no law is, there can be
no transgression.
A law may be made to look forward, and to punish the trans-
gressors of that Law, but it cannot look back, and punish a
matter done any time before any law be provided to make that
matter punishable. We instance my please your Honors, in the
case of Cain - who was a murderer; guilty, of the highest
crime - that man could commit against man; who slew almost
half the world at one stroke. The Almighty God did not take
his life, because, at that time, there was no law to punish
a cruelty - his Maker told him he should not prosper, but
become a fugitive and a vagabond, etc. And afterwards, it
pleased the great Governor of the World, to make a law, that,
he who shall shed man's blood, by man, should his blood be
shed. Murder then became a trangression, to be punished by
death. But did not put that law in executiion or force against
Cain for the above reason; but made that law for future
generations - and preservation of the lives of mankind.
To the Honorable Judges of the (page is torn)
to be holden at Cambridge on (torn)
(note - meaning, the record pages were torn)
p.116 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE
REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
This picture of the First Parish Meeting House and the
Common, is taken from a drawing made in the year 1838 by
John Warner Barber, and was printed in his "Historical
Collections" of Massachusetts (Worcester, 1839). It repre-
sents the Meeting-House which was built in 1755, as it orig-
inally appeared and before it was remodelled in 1839, when
it was partially turned around, and the north end of the
building made the front, facing the west. On this Common
at Groton, the Minute-men and other soldiers rallied on
April 19, 1775; and here the ammunition was given out that
forenoon by the Selectmen of the town as related below.
The powder-house, or "magazine" as it is called in the
records, was near-by and the place handy for the purpose.
It stood in the roadway of High Street - which then was not
laid out - perhaps thirty-five rods from its north end.
The following paper has a good deal of historical interest.
The several articles, therein mentioned, were delivered to
the soldiers, just before marching. It must have been a
scene
p.117 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
They marched together down the road.
well worthy of the dramatic skill of a poet or an artist.
Apparently the Minute-men and the militia were supplied
with ammunition at the same time, and presumably in their
respective companies they marched together down the road.
APRIL YE 19TH, 1775.
GROTON.
Upon an alarm delivered to ye soldiers out of ye Town Stock
as follows - viz:
To Daniel Gilson 3/4d of powder & 4 flints.
To David Archibald 1/d of powder & 20 bullets of ye largest
size.
To William Derumple - 1/2d of powder.
To Amos Adams - 1/2d of powder and 10 bullets.
To John Williams - 1/4d of powder. 6 F. 15 B.
To Eleazer Green, Jr. 20 bullets and 1/d powder.
To John Gragg - 1/d powder - 20 B. and 4 F.
To Benjamin Parker - 20 bullets 3/4d
To Captain Lawrence - 20 bullets.
To John Pierce - 15-6 flints and 1-1/2d of powder.
To Oliver Lakin - 20 B - 1/d. powder - 6 F.
To Phineas Parker - 3/4 d powder - 10 B - 2 flints.
To Levi Parker - 1/d powder.
To Solomon Gilson - 6 flints, 20 bullets - 3/4d powder.
To William Nutting - 5 flints.
To Josiah Hobart - 4 flints and 5 B.
To Lieut. Parker - 3/4d 20 B 4 F.
To Benjamin Prescott - 3 Flints.
To Enoch Cook - 3/4d powder, 3 flints.
To Samuel Boyden - 12 bullets.
To Isaac Nutting, Jr. 20 B. 3/4d
To Benjamin Patch, Jr. 1/2d powder 20 B.
To Nehemiah Holden - 16 B: 6 flints - 6 more flints.
To Jonathan Nutting - 1/4d powder.
To Nehemiah Tarbell - 3/4d powder.
To Nathaniel Shattuck - 3/4d - 30 B - 6 F.
To Eleazar Flagg - 6 flints - 3/4d powder.
To John Parker - 3/4d 6 Flints.
To William Derumpill, Jr. 1/2d 6 Flints 11 B.
p.118 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolution
Ephraim Ward - 1/4d powder.
Ephraim Robbins - 1/2d 3 F.
John Hazen - 3/4d 30 B: 6 F.
Jonathan Capron, Jr. 3/4d.
Asa Porter - 3/4 d - 20 B.
Joseph Frost - 3/4d - 20 B.
Josiah Warren - 20 B - 1/2 powder.
Edmund Blood - 1/2d.
Jacob Lakin Parker - 1/2d powder.
Captain Farwell - 16 Bullets.
James Adams - 1/4d - 14 B - 6 F.
John Ames, Jr. - 20 B - 6 Flints.
Nathaniel Sawtell - 1/2d powder.
Winslow Parker - 20 B - 1/2d 6 F.
Benjamin Blood - 4 F - 1/2 powder.
Simeon Foster - 3/4 powder - 4 F.
Stephen Foster - 20 B - 3/4 powder.
David Jenkins - 1/2d - 20 B - 6 F.
Obadiah Jenkins - 10 B - 5F - 3/4 powder.
James Dodge - 1/2d powder - 2 flints.
Benjamin Lawrence, Jr. - 1/2d powder.
Aaron Bigelow - 20 B - 2 F - 1/d powder.
Obadiah Jenkins - 20 B - 3/4d - 3 F.
John Laughton - 20 B - 4 F - 1/d powder.
Samuel Kemp, Jr. - 3/4d 20 B 4 F.
Aaron Farnsworth - 1/2d 30 B 3 F.
Nehemiah Parker - 20 B 6 F 1/4 powder.
Oliver Farnsworth, Jr. 1/2d 2 F.
John Graves - 2/1d - powder 4 F.
Isaac Lawrence - 1/2 4 F.
Daniel Williams - 20 B - 6 F.
Joel Porter - 20 B 4 F.
Lieutenant Fletcher - 13 B.
Phinehas Hemingway - 1/2 d Powder.
Benjamin Hazon - 1/2 d.
Amasa Gilson - 4 F - 6 B.
Ebeneza Kemp, Jr. - 1/4d
Jonathan Woods - 1/2d.
John Lawrence - 1/2d.
p.119 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
REVOLUTIONARY PAPERS.
Ezekiel Nutting, Jr. - 1/2 20 B. 6 F.
Jonathan Colburn - 1/2d 20 B 6 F.
John Lawrence - 25 B - 4 F.
Amos Woods - 20 B. & 6 F & 1/2 Powder.
Oliver Farsworth - 1/2 Pound Powder - 1 flint - and 20 Bullets.
GROTON.
William Tuckerman - 3 Qrt Powder & 6 Flints.
Joseph Adams - 1/2d Powder - 3 F 6 B.
John Hugh - 3 flints.
Jonathan Woods - 3 flints.
Joseph Herrick - 1/2 Powder - 24 B - 4 F.
Jonathan Worster - 2 F - 20 B.
Capt. Amos Lawrence - 20 B - 4 F.
Francis Worster - 4 F.
John Hughs - 1/d of Powder.
Jonathan Woods - 1/2d of Powder - 20 B.
Ashel Wyman - 1d Powder - 12 B - Returned in 35 B.
Elisha Hoit - 3 Q Powder & 3 flints & 16 B.
Timothy Moors - 3 Flints.
Benjamin Farnsworth 2 F.
Urial Whitney - 2 F.
Abijah Warren - 3 F. & 10 B.
Jonas Tarbell - 1/2 P - 3 F - 20 B.
Nehemiah Holden - one flint.
Jonathan Jenkins - 1/2d powder - 15 B - 1 F.
Joel Jenkins - 1/2d 15B: 2 F.
John Ames - 1/d 30B 2 F.
Ambrose Lakin - 1/4d of powder.
James Blood, Jr. - 1/2d powder - Return Powder.
Peter Blood - 6 Bullets.
Mr. Ebenezer Patch - about 1/4d Powder - 12 Bullets.
Jacob Williams - 3/4d - 20 B - 3F.
David Lakin - 20 B - 3 F.
Oliver Tarbell - half a pound of Powder.
101 in all.
p.120 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
PEPPERELL, MASSACHUSETTS.
William Spaulding, Jr. 1/2d.
Samuel Gilson - 1/2d - William Burk - 1/2.
Moses Shattuck - 1/2d
Samuel Gilson - 1/2d powder.
Eleazer Spaulding - 1/2d
Timothy Hosly - 1/2d
David Avery - 1/2d Powder 15B 2:F
Reuben Shattuck - 1/2d powder wanting about two charges.
Indorsed - Ammunition Account.
The Selectmen of Groton.
To a gun delivered by their order for Obadiah Jenkins, to
carry into the Colony Army - £1.16.0.
April 19th, 1775. Per John Stone.
__________
Received of Isaac Farnsworth - one pound, thirteen Shillings
in cash, as a part of my servant's wages, for his service.
February ye 18th, 1776 (signed) Isaac Townsend.
Groton - March 28, 1777.
An account of what I have done in the wars in the year 1775.
Eight months of myself at Cambridge, Mass., and eight months
of Uriel Whitney (his son) at Cambridge and the whole of the
year 1776 of Uriel Whitney in the Continental Service.
Abner Whitney.
Indorsed - Abner Whitney.
PEPPERELL.
SAMUEL FARLEY.
September ye 1st, 1779.
This certifies that Mr. Samuel Farley, now living in Groton,
did service in behalf of this Town by serving in the first
eight months' campaign in the year 1775, which was estimated
in this town at £4-10s and also in the Twelve months to York
which was estimated here at ten pounds. He, on his return
settleing in Groton - had no opportunity to - neither has he
received any pay - therefore, but ought to have credit there-
for in the Town where he doth or where he may live. Test.
Nehemiah Hobart, Town Clerk.
p.121 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
REVOLUTIONARY PAPERS.
November 21, 1778 - gave Widow Lamson an order for Nursing
Widow Gilson. £3:0:0.
December 21, 1778 - Paid John Tarbell for sundrys for the
Widow Gilson. £1:7:0.
July 31st - Paid William Swan for articles for Widow
Gilson: £0:9:0
October 12th - Paid William Swan for a quart of rum for
the widow Gilson. £0:9:0
March 3, 1777. Paid Kemp for boarding Sibel Dodge child
in full to this day. £1.16.0
October 14, 1776 - Gave order to Kemp for boarding Sibel
Dodge, a child - 19 weeks, ending this instant £1.18.0
June 1st. 1776 - Paid Kemp for nursing & boarding Dodge
Child for eight weeks. £1:1:0:1.
May 6, 1776 - Paid Kemp for Nursing & Boarding Dodge child
7 weeks, ending the 17th Instant. £0:14:0.
This may certify that Eleazer Ames has past muster before me.
James Barrett - Muster.
Recknd off.
Groton, Sept. ye 8th, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for said Town,
forty pounds as in full agreeable to a vote passed in said
Town, August ye 27th, 1777.
Test. Obadiah Wetherell Eleazer Ames.
Indorsed - Eleazer Ames.
________________
This may certify that William Bancroft has past Muster before
me -
William Bancroft James Barrett - Muster.
Indorsed: William Bancroft.
Shirley, Mass. July 3, 1777.
This may certify that William Bancroft is Enlisted in my Company
and has past muster, during the present War, for the Town of
Groton. Silvester Smith, Captain.
p.122 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Groton, July ye 8th, 1778.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer of said Town -
Twenty pounds as in full of this Town's Bounty agreeable to a
vote passed in said Town, Aril ye 7th, 1777. William Bancroft.
This may certify that Aaron Bigelow has passed Muster before me.
James Barrett, Muster Master.
Aaron Bigelow.
Indorsed - Aaron Bigelow.
Groton. May ye 17, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for said town -
twenty pounds as in full of the Town's Bounty Agreeable to a
vote passed in said Town - April ye 7th, 1777.
Aaron Bigelow.
Groton. April 7, 1777.
Reckoned off.
_____________________
This may certify that Caleb Blood and John Blood, who have
enlisted in the Continental Army in Capt. Silvanus Smith's
Company in Colonel Timothy Bigelow's Regiment, have provided
their own blankets at their own expense.
Groton - May 5, 1777 Isaac Farnsworth &
John Tarbell, Selectmen
for Groton.
Concord, Massachusetts
April 9, 1777.
This will certify that Benjamin Brazer appeared before me and
was regularly mustered for the Town of Groton.
James Barrett, Muster Master.
p.123 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
REVOLUTIONARY PAPERS.
Groton - April ye 14th, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for the said
Town of Groton, Twenty Pounds in full, according to the Town's
vote, passed in April ye 7, 1777. I say Received by me,
Benjamin Brazer - Reckoned off.
Jacob Gragg
Moses Child
Indorsed - Benjamin Brazer.
_____________
This may certify that we have not returned Benjamin Brazer
as a man in the Continental Army for the Town of Charlestown
and hereby agree that he shall go for the Town of Groton.
Charlestown, April 6, 1778.
by Selectmen:
Walter Russell
John Hay
Samuel Gardner.
Groton - October 20, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Town Treasurer - for Groton
aforesaid - forty pounds cash as a town bounty, agreeable to
the Town vote in August, 1777 - I promise to serve in the
Continental Army for three years, if not sooner legally dis-
charged, as one of said Groton's quota.
Witness: Samuel Cole.
the 10th day Sept. 1777.
This may certify that Samuel Cole has passed muster for the
town of Groton, for the term of three years under Captain
Smith, for the Continental Service and has received his State
bounties of me, all except four pounds, ten shillings, for his
fire-arms and other queterments. Falmouth, Casco Bay - In the
Country of Cumberland - Muster Master for the Same.
Daniel Insley, Esquire.
Reckoned off.
p.124 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Groton - June ye 10th, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for said town,
Twenty Pounds, as in full of a bounty by a vote passed in said
town the 7th of April last, for a soldier that will list into
the Continental service for three years, or during the war.
I say Received by me,
William Conn. £20.0.0
Attest: Jonas Farnsworth.
Reckoned off.
____________________
Middlesex - State of the Massachusetts Bay - May 9, 177
Whereas I, the subscriber, having enlisted in the Continental
Army - as a Soldier under Capt. Silvanus Smith in Colonel
Bigelow's Regiment; and have passed muster as a soldier in
said Service during the War, I do hereby acknowledge that I
have this day received a blanket from the Selectmen of the
Town of Groton, agreeable to an order of the Great and General
Court of the State of Massachusetts. (signed)
EDMOND FARNSWORTH.
The blanket within mentioned, purchased of ye Widow, Mary
Hartwell for 18/ July 21, 1777.
PAID.
This may certify that Edmund Farnsworth enlisted into the
Continental Army about the middle of March, 1777.
Edmond Bancroft, Lieut.
May ye 24, 1777.
__________________
This may certify that Edmund Farnsworth was enlisted into
the Continental Army for Groton, Massachusetts.
April 20th, 1777.
EDMUND FARNSWORTH.
Groton, Sept. 16, 1777.
Recieved of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for this town,
eighteen shillings, in consequent of the within writing.
Submit Farwell.
p.125 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Deacon Bancroft - you may venture to let David Farwell's
wife three dollars toward ye Town's bounty etc.
Reckoned off. James Prescott.
Groton October ye 9th, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr. Town Treasurer - Seven
Pounds, four shillings, in part of my Husband's Bounty,
agreeable to a vote passed in this Town, April ye 7th, 1777.
Submit Farwell.
Groton, December ye 8th, 1777. Received of Benjamin Bancroft,
Jr., Town Treasurer - three pounds, twelve shillings more.
I say, received by me:
Submit Farwell.
January 31, 1778. Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Eight
Pounds, Six shillings in full, and in consequence of the
within writing. Attest, Moses Child. By me, Submit Farwell.
Groton, October 8, 1777. This certifies that we are willing
David Farwell's wife should have the Town's Bounty proposed
to her Husband. James Prescott
Oliver Prescott
Isaac Farnsworth
To Deacon Bancroft, Treasurer.
Reckoned off.
_____________________________________
Groton, November 12, 1781.
This certifieth that Daniel Fletcher served six months in my
Company, in the 15th and 5th Massachusetts Regiments in the
years 1780 and 1781, and was Honorably Discharged - he drew
no blanket nor knapscack during his Service in said Regiment.
Filed Sylvanus Smith, Captain,
5th Regiment.
Indorsed. Received from Captain Smith.
THOMAS FARRINGTON, JR.
This may certify that Thomas Farrington, Jr. did enlist into
my company in the year, 1775 on November 20th and has contin-
ued in the Service ever since and still remains there. He was
born at Groton, Mass., and held his residence there ever since,
excepting paying some visits to Andover amongst his friends,
etc. He ought therefore to be deemed as a Groton man now in
the Service of the United States. (signed) Thomas Farrington.
September 8, 1778.
p.126 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
By Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Middlesex Manuscripts - September 8, 1778. Then, the above
named Thomas Farrington personally appeared before me, the
subscriber, and made solom oath to the truth of the above
certificate.
Israel Hobart, Justice of the Peace.
We hereby certify that we were informed that Cato Frye, a
free negro, who resided and laboured in the Town of Pepper-
ell, Mass., for some time previous to his engaging in the
Continental Army, enlisted as a soldier in the Continental
Service for the Town of Groton, Massachusetts and that the
Selectmen of Pepperell resigned their pretensions to hold
him - to the Town of Groton, as they supposed their guota
full, and were to take no further claim about him. We also
certify he was the said Cato who did receive a Town Bounty
from Groton. Groton, October 13th, 1778.
Oliver Prescott
Isaac Farnsworth
Joseph Moors.
Concord, Massachusetts.
August 26th ye 1777.
This will certify that I have enlisted into the Continental
Army for three years and I have passed muster for the town of
Groton. (His sign) Cato Frye. His mark.
Test: John Davison, Sargeant.
Groton, September 6, 1777. Dr. Benjamin Bancroft, Treasurer.
I see no difficulty in your paying Lieutenant Wetherell 40
pounds, in consideration of a man which he has procured for
this town as a soldier in ye Continental Army for three years
as by ye above certificate. Isaac Farnsworth.
Reckoned off.
Groton, September 6, A.D., 1777.
Received of the within named Benjamin Bancroft, Treasurer,
the sum of forty pounds, in full, of the Town's bounty for
the within named Cato Frye as within mentioned.
Obadiah Witherell.
Indorsed, Cato Fry.
p.127 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS.
DURING THE REVOLUTION.
This may certify that Jesse Garfield has passed Muster,
before: James Barrett, Muster Master.
Cambridge, Massachusetts
January 16, 1778.
This will certify all to whom it may concern that the Town
of Cambridge, Massachusetts have supplied the Continental
Army with men agreeble to the Order of the Court, lately
made, by order of the Selectmen.
NB - Jesse Garffield excluded. Edward Marrett.
To Captain Edward Marrett.
Sir: This may certify that we desire you to give Jesse
Garfield a cerificate that the Town of Cambridge have got
their full quota of men for the Continental Army without
reckoning him for one of them.
Cambridge - January 16, 1778. Aaron Hill
Ephraim Frost
Stephen Dana
Groton, January 27. 1778.
Received of James Prescott, the sum of sixy pounds for the
use of Jesse Garfield, resident in Cambridge, which I en-
listed into the Continental Army on the first day of Novemb-
er, last, who is to serve in Captain White's Company in Col.
Rufus Putnam's regiment - which sum I receive as a bounty,
given by said town of Groton, to the said Garfield, to serve
for and be reconned as part of the Quota for the said town.
Sargent Thomas Ditson.
Attest, William Swan.
February 13, 1778. Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr.
six pounds. Reckened off.
__________________
This may certify that Daniel Gillson and Daniel Gillson, Jr.
his pay muster, before me. James Barrett, Muster Master.
Reckened off.
p.128 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Groton, May ye 14th, 1777.
We the Subscribers.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer of the Town of
Groton, twenty pounds each as in full, of said Town's Bounty,
agreeable to a vote passed in said Town April 7, 1777.
Daniel Gilson
Daniel Gilson, Jr.
Indorsed: Daniel Gilson.
This may Certify that Arnel Glidden has passed Muster, before
me. James Barrett, Muster Master.
Arnel Glidden
Indorsed - Arneld Glidden.
Groton. October 19, 1777. Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr.,
Town Treasurer for Groton - thirty-one pounds in cash which
with the sum of nine pounds, I have already received of Nathan
Smith, is in full of the Town Bounty for their Continental men
and do hereby acknowledge I have received the same in conse-
quence of my being enlisted into the Continental Army for three
years, as one of the said Town's quota of Continental men, etc.
(signed) Arnel Glidden.
Witness: Oliver Prescott.
Reckonned off.
For value received, I promise to pay Benjamin Bancroft, Jr.
Town Treasurer for Groton, or his successor in the said office,
the sum of forty pounds - on demand - I have received the sum
for the purpose of hiring men for the said town into the
Continental service, etc. Witness my hand this 5th day of
September: A.D. 1777. Nathan Smith.
Test: Isaac Farnsworth.
p.129 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
February 9, 1778.
Gave Deacon Bancroft an order for the above sum of forty
pounds.
September 5, 1777.
Deacon Bancroft - we desire you to pay Captain Smith the sum
within mentioned and receive this Note for the same. Signed:
Oliver Prescott
Isaac Farnsworth
Nathan Hubburd.
Selectmen for Groton.
Boston, May 3, 1777. This may certify that Elisha Hoit en-
listed in Col. Crane's Regiment of Artillery and the past
Muster, the 29th of April last past, as for the Town of
Groton. In Captain Benjamin Eustus's Company.
Joseph Bliss, Lieutenant.
Groton, May ye 5th, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr. Treasurer for said Town,
twenty pounds as in full of the Bounty agreeable to a vote
passed in said Town, April ye 7th, 1777. I say received by
me, Elisha Hoyt.
Attest: Ephraim Warren, Jr. - Reconned Off.
Indorsed - Elisha Hoit.
RICHARD HOLDEN.
This may certify that Richard Holden, his past muster before
me. James Barrett - Muster Master.
Reckened off.
Groton, May ye 12th, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for said town
of Groton, twenty pounds as in full of this Town's bounty,
agreeable to a vote passed in said Town April ye 17th, 1777.
Richard Holden.
Endorsed: Richard Holden.
p.130 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Concord, Mass., May 2, 1777.
This may certify that I have enlisted and was mustered -
Richard Holden - for the term of three years for the town of
Groton. S. Smith, Captain.
RICHARD HOLDEN.
Middlesex- State of the Massachusetts Bay - Groton, May 10, 1777.
These may certify that Richard Holden, having enlisted as a
soldier in the Continental Army, under Captain Silvanus Smith
in Colonel Bigleow's Regiment, has found his own blanket, agree-
able to an order of the Great and General Court of Massachusetts.
Isaac Farnsworth
John Tarbell
Oliver Prescott
Selectmen for the Town of Groton.
Received of ye Town of Groton the pay for the blanket above
mentioned. Groton, December 19, 1777. Nehemiah Holden.
This may certify that Joel Jenkins has passed Muster - before
me. James Barrett, Muster Master.
Endorsed: Joel Jenkins.
Groton, April ye 14th, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for said town,
twenty pounds in full, according to a Vote passed in this Town
April ye 7th, 1777. I say, received by me. - Joel Jenkins.
Reckoned off.
WILLIAM KEMP.
Groton - April 1, 1777.
This may certify that I have enlisted William Kemp and muster-
ed him during the present War for the town of Groton.
Sylvester Smith, Captain.
p.131 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
WILLIAM KEMP.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for said Town,
twenty pounds as in full of my bounty - voted by this Town -
April ye 7th, 1777. I say received by me. William Kemp.
This may certify that Michael Keenin has past muster before me,
James Barrett, Muster Master.
Michael Keenin.
Cambridge. Feb 11th, 1778.
These may certify that Mr. Michael Kweein, a resident in this
town for about one year - and hath behaved himself respectfully,
and well among us, having an inclination to go in the public
service against our enemies, that we have in this town our full
quota of men for the three years, lately ordered by the Great
and General Court of this State.
By order of the Selectmen of the Town of Cambridge, Massachusett.
Edward Marrett.
Groton, February 14th, 1778.
I hereby acknowledge myself to have enlisted into the Continent-
al Army for the term of three years (if not sooner discharged)
as a soldier in Captain Sylvanus Smith's Company and Colonel
Bigelow's regiment - to make up the quota assigned the town of
Groton aforesaid and have this day received Captain Benjamin
Bancroft Town Treasurer for said Groton, the sum of sixty pounds
legal money, as a Town Bounty for said service.
Michael Keenin.
Witness: Oliver Prescott £.60 - Reckoned off.
p.132 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
May 5, 1777.
COLONEL TIMOTHY BIGELOW'S REGIMENT.
I the subscriber being enlisted in the Continental Army with
Captain Silvanus Smith, in Colonel Timothy Bigelow's Regi-
ment, do hereby acknowledge that I have received one blanket
of the Selectmen of the Town of Groton, in consideration of
a blanket allowed me by an order of ye General Court of the
State of Massachusetts.
Zachariah Longley.
This may certify that Zachariah Longley, Junior has passsed
Muster before me.
James Barrett, Muster Master.
Zachariah Longley, Jun'r.
Endorsed - Z. Longley, Jr.
________________
Groton, April 19, 1777
This may certify that I have enlisted and mustered Zachariah
Longley and Asa Longley for the term of three years for the
Town of Groton. Silvanius Smith, Captain.
Groton, April 21, 1777.
We the subscribers have received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr.,
Treasurer of said Town - forty pounds according to this Town's
vote passed in April ye 7th, 1777. We say, received by us:
Zachariah Longley
Reckoned off - Asa Longley.
___________________
Cambridge, May 13, 1777.
This may certify that Zachariah Longley, Jr., is a soldier in
my Company and he has been Mustered in the Continental Army
for Groton. William Hudson Ballard, Captain.
Groton, May ye 15th, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer of the Town
above said, twenty pounds as in full of the Bounty voted in
said town, April ye 7th, 1777. I say, received by me,
Zachariah Longley, Jr.
Reckoned off.
p.133 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
REVOLUTIONARY PAPERS.
HENRY MCNEAR.
This may certify that Henry McNear appeared before and was
Regularly mustered, for the Town of Groton.
James Barrett, Muster Master.
Groton, April ye 15th, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for Said Town,
Twenty Pounds, as in full, of the Bounty voted by this Town
April ye 7th, 1777. I say Received by me,
Henry McNeil.
Reckoned off.
Indorsed - Henry McNeil.
________________________
Groton, May ye 8th, 1777.
I, the Subscriber, having enlisted in the publick service of
the State of Massachusetts-Bay, as a soldier to serve for two
months after my arrival at the place of destination, agree-
able to my enlistment, do hereby acknowledge that I have re-
ceived of the Selectmen of said Town of Groton, twelve shill-
ings as my Ration or mileage money for travel from my place
of abode, to ye place of Destination as aforesaid, agreeable
to a late order of the General Court of said State.
Witness: Amos Lawrence, Jr.
John Peirce - His Mark.
July 21st, 1777. Paid.
_________________________________
Groton, April 19, 1777.
This may certify that I have enlisted and mustered Benjamin
Pierce for the term of three years for the Town of Groton.
Sylvanius Smith, Captain.
Groton, April ye 19, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for said Town,
Twenty Pounds in full, according to a Vote passed in this Town
April ye 7th, 1777. Benjamin Peirce.
Reckoned off.
p.134 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
This may certify that James Piert has passed Muster before
me. James Barrett, Muster Master.
Indorsed, James Piert.
_____________
I, the Subscriber having this day enlisted myself into the
Continental Service for the term of three years, as a private
soldier for the Town of Groton, do hereby acknowledge that i
have received of the Committee of said Town, the sum of forty
Pounds in full, as said Town's bounty for said service.
Dated Groton, January 17, 1778. James Pieart.
Reckoned off.
Groton, January ye 29, 1778.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Town Treasurer for said
Town - forty pounds as in full and in consequence of the with-
in Certificate - we say received by us.
£40-0-0. Benjamin Lawrence, Jr.
Joseph Moors
Moses Child.
This may certify that Charles Proctor has passsed muster
before me. James Barrett, Muster Master.
Charles X (his mark) Proctor.
Attest.
Oliver Prescott, April 23d, 1777. Received five pounds.
Indorsed - Charles Proctor.
This may certify that Jonas Procter has passed muster for
Groton, before me. James Barrett, Muster Master.
p.135 REVOLUTIONARY PAPERS.
Groton, Massachusetts.
Groton. June 16, 1777
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for said Town,
Twenty Pounds as in full of this Town's Bounty, agreeable to
a vote passed in said Town, April ye 7th, 1777.
Attest: Daniel Gilson. Jonas X Proctor
X - his mark.
Reckoned off.
Endorsed: Jonas Proctor.
This may Certify that Nathaniel Russell has passed Muster
before me. James Barrett, Muster Master.
Reckoned off.
Groton. May ye 5th, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for the Town of
Groton, twenty pounds as in full of the Bounty according to a
vote passed in said Town, April ye 7th, 1777. I say, received
by me. Ephraim Russell.
Endorsed - Nathaniel Russell.
Groton, April ye 14, 1777.
Gentlemen: Please to pay my father, Ephraim Russell, the sum of
twenty pounds voted to me as a Town's bounty for my engaging in
the Continental Service during the War - as I am this day oblig-
ed - your most obedient and very humble servant -
Nathaniel Russell.
To the Selectmen of Groton
or Town's Committee or Treasurer.
Received twenty pounds. Ephraim Russell.
Reckened off.
To the Selectmen of Groton.
Please to pay my honored father what was allowed for a blanket
for he found me one, and I expected to draw the money for it
when I joined my Regiment but could not, for want of a certi-
ficate from the Groton Selectmen.
From your humble servant. Nathaniel Russell.
Albany, May ye 28, 1777.
p.136 Groton, Massachusetts, During the Revolution.
This may certify that Salmon Russell, has passed Muster,
before me: James Barrett - Muster Master.
Reckoned off.
Groton, April 30, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer for said Town,
Twenty pounds as in full of the Bounty agreeable to a vote
passed in said Town, April ye 7th, 1777.
I say Received by me,
Solomon Russell.
Indorsed - Solomon Russell.
_________________
May, ye 5th, 1777.
I, the subscriber, being enlisted in the Continental Army
with Captain Silvanus Smith in Colonel Timothy Bigelow's
Regiment, do hereby acknowledge that I have received one blanket
of the Selectmen of ye Town of Groton, in consideration of a
blanket allowed me by an order of the General Court of this
State. Solomon Russell.
-------------------------
Concord, Sept 11, 1777.
To Captain Asa Lawrence.
Sir as you are one of the Committee for to enlist men for the
Town, I send you Samuel Taylor, that I have enlisted him and
passed muster and want the hyer of forty pounds & the town of
Acton, they say its quota full.
Obadiah Witherell.
I want you should enlist those men you talked of and sent the
Enlistment by Eleazer Eames. Send me as many as you can, for
General Gates is sent for all the Continental officers and men.
These from your friend - Obadiah Witherell.
This may certify that Samuel Taylor has passed Muster, before
me. James Barrett, Muster Master.
September 12, 1777. I hereby certify that Nathan Parlin, one
of ye Committee of Acton, told me the evening of the 11th
Instant, that the Town of Acton had got their Quota of men &
had no objection to my going for any town.
Attest: Ephraim Russell. Samuel Taylor, his mark.
p.137 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
REVOLUTIONARY PAPERS.
Groton, September 12, 1777.
I hereby acknowledge that I have received of Oliver Prescott,
Esq., forty pounds as an additional Bounty given by ye Town
of Groton - To serve as a soldier in ye Continental Army for
Groton.
Ephraim Russell signed: Samuel Taylor.
June 23, 1778.
Gave this receipt to Mr. Child, which I am to have credit for.
Addressed to Captain Asa Lawrence of Groton.
__________________
This may certify that Samuel Thompson has passed Muster before
me. James Barrett, Muster Master.
Reckoned off.
Groton, January ye 30, 1778. Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr.
Town Treasurer for said Town, Sixty Pounds and in consequence
of the within certificate and I hereby acknowledge myself a
soldier in the Continental Service for the term of three years
and as a Private soldier for the Town of Groton in said Service
in Captain Sylvanus Smith's Company.
Attest: Thomas Bond per Samuel Thomson.
Indorsed: Samuel Tomson.
To: Captain Bancroft, Jr., Town Treasurer -
Sir: please to pay John Williams my money that is comming from
the Town, as a soldier in the Continental Army from Groton and
this receipt shall be your discharge from me.
Nathaniel Williams
John Williams.
This may certify that Nathaniel Williams has enlisted in my
Company for the Town of Groton.
per me, Matthias Fairfield, Captain.
Cambridge. April 15th, 1777.
Reckoned off.
p.138 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Groton, April 17, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Treasurer of said town
twenty pounds as in full, according to this Town's Vote,
passed April 7, 1777, by the hand of my brother, John
Williams by my order - I say, received by me.
John Williams,
in behalf of Nathaniel Williams.
This may certify that Nathaniel Williams was mustered in
in Captain Fairfield's Company & Colonel Wigglesworth's
battalion and was paid the State bounty by: Nat Baron
Boston Muster Master.
April 15, 1777. County of Suffolk.
Indorsed: Nathaniel Williams.
_______________________
This may certify that Peter Youngman has passed Muster
before me.
Peter Youngman James Barrett, Muster master.
January 30, 1778.
This may certify that I, Peter Youngman, for, and in con-
sideration of a sum agreed upon betwext us to be paid to me
by John Nutting of Groton. I have enlisted myself into the
Continental Army to do a turn in the place of John Nutting
and no other man.
Attest. Peter Youngman.
Pelatier Fletcher.
This certifies that the Town of Westford (once a part of
Groton) have engaged their Quota in the Continental Army
and that the barer, Peter Youngman is at liberty to en-
gate for any other Town at present.
Zachariah Wright, Captain.
Westford, February 11, 1778.
Reckoned off.
Groton, February 17, 1778.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Jr., Town Treasurer of said
Town, the sum of forty pounds in full for said Town's
Bounty, and I hereby acknowledge myself a Private soldier
under Captain Smith, in Colonel Bigelow's Regiment for
Groton, during the term of three years. As witness my
Hand. Peter Youngman.
p.139 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Received of the Selectmen of Groton, two blankets for the
use of my Company. Sylvester Smith, Captain.
Price: 42/
We, the subscribers, each of us received of Capt. Sylvanus
Smith, a blanket that he received of the Selectmen of
Groton. Benjamin Pierce.
David Tarbell.
April ye 23d, 1777.
__________________
February 17, 1778. Peter Youngman Rt from ye Town £40.0
April 14, 1777. Nathaniel Russell 20.
May 17, 1777. Aaron Bigelow 20.
April 19, 1777. Benjamin Peirce 20.
April 14, 1777. Benjamin Brazier 20.
April 21, 1777. Zachariah Longley 20.
April 21, 1777. Asa Longley 20.
June 27, 1778. Jesse Garfield 60.
May 5, 1777. Elisha Hoit. 20.
May 12, 1777. Richard Holden 20.
April 17, 1777. Nathaniel Williams 20.
April 14, 1777. Joel Jenkins 20.
May 15, 1777. Zachariah Longley, Jr. 20.
April 18, 1777. William Kemp 20.
July 8, 1777. William Bancroft 20.
April 17, 1777. Benjamin Parker 20.
April 17, 1777. John Blood 20.
April 17, 1777. Caleb Blood, Jr. 20.
June 10, 1777. William Conn 20.
May 14, 1777. Daniel Gilson 20.
May 14, 1777. Daniel Gilson, Jr. 20.
April 30, 1777. Solomon Russell 20.
April 15, 1777. Henry McNeill 20.
April 30, 1778. Sameul Thompson 60.
Sept. 8, 1777. Eleazer Ames 40.
May 9, 1777. Edmund Farnsworth 20.
Sept. 12, 1777. Samuel Taylor 40.
p.140 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
January 29, 1778. Timothy Mixer £60.
January 29, 1778. Joseph Clough 60.
February 15, 1779 John Magee 140.
November 15, 1778 Andrew Alexander 100.
November 15, 1778 Gersham Vanalstine 100.
September, 1779 James Marr 450.
John Gragg, Jr.
Edmond Trowbridge.
John Parker
Simeon Kemp
Calvin Kemp
April _ 1778 Thomas Colvin 40.
April _ 1778 Isaac Phillips 40.
April _ 1778 John Bennett 40.
March - 1777 David Crage 20.
April - 1777 Simeon Gould 20.
__________
TOTAL 2,130 Bounty.
We, the subscribers, some for ourselves and others, in ye
room & behalf of others, do hereby enlist ourselves as
soldiers in the public Service of the State of Massachus-
etts Bay, to continue in said service for the term of two
months after our arrival at the place of destination agree-
able to the late order of the General Court of Massachusetts
to re-inforce the Army at or near Providence, in the State
of Rhode Island, and to be under such Regulations as is
given by Congress to the Continental Army, viz:
Lemuel Parker in room & behalf of Eleazer Parker.
Lemuel Parker, Jr., in room & behalf of Levi Parker.
Oliver Woods, in room & behalf of James Woods.
Lemuel Parker
Lemuel Parker, Jr.
Oliver Woods.
Jonathan Worster.
p.141 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS IN THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
REVOLUTIONARY PAPERS.
Groton, May ye 7th, 1777.
We, the subscribers having enlisted in the Public Service
of the State of Massachusetts Bay, as soldiers for said
State, to serve during ye term of two months in ye War,
agreeable to our enlistment, acknowledge that we have re-
ceived of the Selectmen of Groton, Massachusetts, twelve
shillings each of us Respectively, as our Ration, or
mileage money, for travel from our places of abode to the
place of our destination, agreeable to an Order of the
General Court of Massachusetts.
Lemuel Parker
Lemuel Parker, Jr.
Oliver Woods
Jonathan Worster
Joseph Page
John Stevens
John Park, Jr.
John Trowbridge, Jr.
Joseph Moors, Jr.
January 21, 1777.
Paid to Deacon Farnsworth, in full.
Groton, June 2, 1777.
Preposels from the prisoners to the Members of the Committ-
ee, we the under named persons do solemly agree amongst
ourselves that we will not work for no person without we
shall be paid two shillings lawful money each day we work
for the reasons following - in the first place, for four
months in the Winter we had nothing. In the 2nd place,
what necessaries we need, we have to pay three times its
real intrinsic value and in the third place, what money we
earn ought to be paid once a week, for when the time passes
one, there becomes a scrupel of payments - so if you dont
see proper to make good our proposels, you may send us where
you find us. Patrick Drummond
John Creack
Alexander Jameson
Patrick Houye
Dougel McKinsey
John Falkner.
(Addressed) to the Members of the Committee.
p.142 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
These above prisoners belonged to the 71st Regiment of High-
landers, which embarked at Greenock for New England, near the
end of April, 1776, before the news of the evacuation of
Boston had reached the other side of the water. The regi-
ment sailed in a fleet of seven transports which by stress
of weather, became separated at sea, and two of the vessels,
the ships, "George" and the "Annabella," each with about
a hundred troops, on June 16th, sailed into Boston Harbor,
where they were fairly entrapped. After a shore engagement,
they fell into the hands of the Americans. A few days earl-
ier, the transport "Ann" had a similar experience, and was
taken into Marblehead by privateers; and a few days later,
the transport, "Lord Howe" was captured, much in the same
way, and brought into Boston. For an interesting account
of this episode of the Revolution, the reader is referred
to a work entitled, "Sir Archibald Campbell of Inverneill,
a sometime prisoner of war in the jail at Concord, Massa-
chusetts" (Boston, 1898) by Charles H. Walcott.
For references to three of the prisoners, see p. 167 where a
slight description is given of each one.
__________________________________
Groton, June 7, 1777.
Account of the prisoner expence that I carried to and commit-
to Cambridge Gaol, nameley Patrick Drummand & Alexader Jamison.
Groton - June 7,1777.
Taverns Gilbert, tow, dinners 1: 4
Jill rum 0. 6
At Jonas - two suppers 2: 6
At Hartwell - breakfast 1: 0
A mug of cider 0: 3
Coopers: two dinners 2: 3
____
L money 8: 3
My own horse & Horse oats - Gilbert 4
Dinner 1: 0
Toddy & oats - Whits 1: 0
Oats - Whits 0: 4
p.143 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Jonas' horse 2/4 Supper 1/2 3: 6
Flip & Lodgings 0:10
Hartwell - Breakfast/10 Meal/6 1. 4
Munroe's - Toddy/6 Oats/4 1. 0
Cooper's Horse /6 Dinner 2/ 2. 6
Leonard's Horse 2/6 Supper 1/6 3. 0
Whitney's Breakfast 1/4 Oats /4 1. 8
Jone's - oats /4 Toddy /3 0. 7
Wright's dinner 1/ Toddy /6 1. 6
Capt. Preston's oats /4 0. 4
My horse - journey 5/4 5. 4
His time - one day & hours 7. 0
My own time - 3 days 12. 0
My expences 'cause things & company
were dear. Which you may allow if the
Gentlemen think proper 4. 3
_____________
3:3.9
A True Account - Erros hant expected here
Isaac Dodge.
Groton: June 10, 1747.
Received three pounds, 3 shillings & nine pence in full of the
within account by the hand of Mr. Isaac Farnsworth.
Per Isaac Dodge.
July 21, 1777 - Paid.
Endorsed - The Selectmen for committing two Highlanders to
jail - June, 1777.
p.144 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
by Dr. Samuel A. Green.
To the Selectmen of Groton for what they provided for soldiers
that enlisted into the Continental Army, agreeable to a Resolve
of the Great and General Court passed.
For two blankets delivered to Captain Silvanus Smith,
for two men in his Company 42/ 2. 2. 0
Also for five blankets more delivered to the soldiers,
as by their receipts - appear to the amount of 5. 2. 9
__________
Total £ 7. 4. 9.
To one camp kettle bought of Colonel James Prescott
for the soldiers when they went to Bennington. 0. 19. 0
To Oliver Prescott, Esq. 0. 18. 0
To be paid to Dr. Prescott for visits & medicine for
William Adams of Boston, a soldier taken sick upon his
return from the camp. 1. 0. 0.
To pay ditto for visits & medicines for John Fortneau,
a Scotch prisoner of War 0. 9. 0.
To pay for medicine and visit to Robert Campbell. 0. 3. 0.
To cash paid to Colonel Sartell for mileage he paid
the Bloods, whose receipts he is to produce. 3. 12. 0.
_________________________________________
Deacon Bancroft, Town Treasurer for Groton.
Pay James Prescott, Esq., nine pounds in consequence of his pay-
ing the several soldiers within named, their mileage and this
with his receipt shall be your discharge for the same amount.
September 1, 1777. Oliver Prescott.
£9 Isaac Farnsworth
John Tarbell.
Selectmen for Groton
September 2nd, 1777.
Received of Benjamin Bancroft, Town Treasurer - nine pounds in
full of the above Order. James Prescott.
We, the subscribers - none commissioned Officers & Private
Soldiers. Having enlisted ourselves into your Service of the
State of Massachusetts Bay and ye United States of America,
agreeable to the Order of ye General Court
p.145 GROTON - REVOLUTIONARY PAPERS.
passed June 27, 1777, and have each of us received of the
Selectmen of Groton, in said State, two pence per mile for
travel, amounting to Twelve Shillings, each man, - as witness
our hands, the 4th day of August, 1777.
Uriel Whitney
William Kemp
Thomas Tarbell
Oliver Farnsworth
Henry Swan
John Trowbridge
Mose Chase
Ambros Laken
Amos Ames, Jr.
Moses Ames
Lemuel Parker
David Jenkins
Daniel Willard
Abel Laken
Ephraim Russell, Jr.
__________________________
Captain Asa Lawrence to William Swan
1777
October 2nd - To Cash paid for horse keeping
at Whitney's - Townsend. £ 0 " 6 -
To cash paid for horse keepin at Major Stones
at Ashby. " 3 -
To cash paid for shoeing horse 4 " 3 -
To cash paid for 1 quire paper at Capt.
Wyman's - Ashby 5 " 4 - October 3rd - paid for horse keeping Capt.
Cutler's - Rindge. 4 " 6 -
To cash paid for horse keeping at Robert's,
New Marlboro. 3 " -
To cash paid for men who neglected paying
their reckoning at Robert's, New Marlboro. 12 " -
4th To cash paid for Horse keeping at Captain
Damon's - Keene 5 "
To cash paid for D at Parker's, Winchester 2 "
p. 146 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
5th To cash paid for D at Hunts & Alexander's -
Northfield 7 " 6
To cash paid for D at Smead's, Greenfield 3 " 4
6th To cash paid for D at Eaton's, Shelburn 8 " -
7th To cash paid for D at Fisk's, foot of ye
mountain 4 " 6
8th To cash paid for D at Parker's, East Housouck 9 -
9th To cash paid for D at Bennington 9 -
10th To cash paid for D at St Coy 9 -
To cash paid David Lakin for expences of horses 3 6
26th To cash paid to self - 17 dollars for the relief
of Nutting, etc. 5 2
_________
£ 13 3 5
To balance due to Capt. Lawrence 3 4 7
____________
16 8 -
____________
Supra Cr.
1777.
October 2 - by cash £ 16 8
Captain Lawrence Received of the Town's money £ 16
_______________________
The State of Massachusetts Bay to the Town of Groton Dr
To cash paid the Soldiers as mileage money, Camp Kettles
and canteens - and for transporting the soldiers baggage,
agreeable to the resolves of the General Court, August 8,
1777.
To Cash paid Twenty five Soldiers
as mileage money as per their receipt.
£35 - 8 - 4
To 25 canteens to the same
men @ 2/ 2 - 10 - 0
To two camp kettles 1 - 17 - 0
p.147 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Paid Joseph Allen for carrying the
baggage of the above soldiers to
Bennington. 33 - 15 - 0
Sept 9. Paid to six of the above soldiers
1777. who were dismissed & sent back
again by order of the General Court
for carrying their baggage 5 - 8 - 0
Aug. 4th
1777 Paid to the Soldiers, as mileage to
travel to Providence 12 - 18 - 0
To 7 Blankets found the soldiers in
Capt. Silvanus Smith's Company 7 - 4 9
in Col. Bigelow's Reg't for ye
Continental Service.
To one gun borrowed of John Stone
and delivered to Obadiah Jenkins
April 19th, 1775 - which gun was
carried by said Jenking's son, £ 1 - 16 - 0
Jonathan into the battle at Bunker
Hill, the said Jonathan being then
killed & the said gun was lost.
To William Farwell for carrying
packs to Tiverton £14 - 19 - 6
Paid Asa Stone for carting a load
of Capt. Volington Good to Boston £14 - 19 6
Dec 19, 1777 - paid Converse
Richardson seven shillings for
bailing camp for Capt. Holden's
Company £ 0 - 7 0
To Helven - twelve pickaxes 8/ Pd. £ 0 - 9 0
Indorsed. Scotch Prisoners Account & Mileage Paid ye
Soldiers, etc.
p.148 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
The State of the Massachusetts Bay To the Town of Groton
in said State.
SCOTCH PRISONERS OF WAR.
The State of the Massachusetts Bay - To The Town of
Groton in said State.
To cash piad to the Honorable Oliver Prescott, Esqure,
and othere hereafter mentioned for supporting Scotch
prisoners of war and for other articals as shall be made
to appear by their accounts exhibited to the Selectmen of
said town of Groton, viz:
1777. August 20th To cash paid Joseph Allen
for carting soldier's bag-
age to Bennington, 150
miles. £33 15 0
For articals the Select-
men of said town of Grot-
on provided for Soldiers
who enlisted in the Con-
tinental Army, agreeable
to a resolve of the Gen-
eral Court, passed.
To two blankets delivered
to Capt. Silvanus Smith
for two of his Company 2 2 0
Also for five blankets de-
livered to the soldiers as
per their receipt may appear
to the amount of 5 2 9
To cash paid Col. James
Prescott for one camp
kettle for the soldiers
when they went to Benning-
ton. 0 19 0
To cash paid Oliver Pres-
cott, Esq. 0 18 0.
To cash paid to Colonel
Josiah Sawtell for mile-
age he paid the Bloods whose
receipt is to to produce. 3 12 0.
1775. April 19. To cash paid to John Stone
for one fire-arm delivered
to Obediah Jenkins, to carry
into the Colony service 1 16 0.
1777. Sept. 2nd. To cash paid to Jonathan
Tarbell, Lemuel Parker,
& William Derumple - 12
each as mileage, which
men were raised to re-in-
force the army at Rhode
Island. 3 0 0.
p.149 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Memorandum of the expences of the soldier who was
sick at Ebenezer Farnsworth's.
July 6th, 1778. Made an order to Asa Stone
for carting a load of goods
to Boston for Capt. Volun-
tine, ommitted in the form-
er account. 3 0 0
Aug 31, 1776. To cash paid to the Honorable
Oliver Prescott, Esq., for
vesets and medicines for the
Scotch prisoners of war. 0 3 0
To ditto for ditto 0 2 4
To ditto to the Hon. Oliver
Prescott for boarding Robert
Campbell & wife - Scotch
prisoners of War for 4 weeks. 5 10 0
1778. Feb. 28th To ditto paid to Ephraim
Russell, Jr., for milk de-
livered to Robert Campell &
his wife. 0 18 9
1776. December To ditto paid Enoch Cook for
supporting Robert Campbell &
his wife. 9 4 1
1777. Dec. 19th To ditto paid Nehemiah Holden
for supporting Robert Campbell
and his wife. 5 16 0
1777. November To ditto Paid Col. Josiah
Sawtell for supporting Robert
Campbell & wife, one month. 5 10 0
1776. November To ditto paid Eleazer Green
for supporting Drummond, a
Scotch prisoner. 7 2 8
1777. March 19th. To ditto paid Jonathan Tarbell
for supporting Robert Campbell
and wife. 1 13 5
1777. Nov. 10th To ditto paid Capt. Zachariah
Fitch for supporting Robert
Campbell & wife. 2 15 0
1777. May. To ditto paid Capt. Amos
Lawrence for three cord of
wood, delivered to Robert
Campbell & his wife. 1 4 0
Insert: Captain Amos Lawrence - Source: Historical Sketches
of some members of the Lawrence Family.
p.85. Captain Amos Lawrence.
The tenth and youngest child of John & Anna Lawrence, was born
at Lexington, Mass., Feb 13, 1716 and was baptized when six days
old. He removed to Groton, Mass. in 1742 or earlier. The follow-
ing is the first mention of him in the Groton Town Records:
"At a legal Town meeting of the inhabitants of the town of
Groton, assembled and meeting at the Public Meeting House
August 24, A.D. 1742. They chose William Lawrence Esq. as
Moderator for said meeting. They voted that Shebual Hobart,
Jr., William Bennitt, Amos Lawrance and Nehemiah Hobart have
the liberty to build a pew in the Meeting House over the
women's stairs, such as one as they have already built over
the men's stairs. From recorded contemporary deeds we learn
that as a young man, he was, by trade, a shoemaker, or a
p.86
cordwainer. In 1745, he was chosen as Sealer of leather
and in 1746 and 1748, his name appears in a list of duly
licensed tavern-keepers. His brother, William Lawrence's
name appears in the same list in the years immediately
preceding, and it is likely that Amos Lawrence resided for
a time with him. In September, 1746, a French fleet of 70
vessels under the Duc d'Anville, sent to avenge the loss
of Louisburg the year before, appeared in the vicinity of
Massachusetts Bay. In response to an appeal for assistance,
the militia from far and near hastened to the defence of
Boston, as apprehensions were felt for its safety. Captain
(afterwards, Colonel) William Lawrence marched with a company
from Groton, and his brother, Sergeant Amos Lawrence accom-
panied him. The fleet, however, was so disabled by storms,
that it set sail for France without having accomplished any-
thing, and after a brief term of service the soldiers re-
turned to their homes. The Clerk of that company was William
Prescott who later won renown at Bunker Hill 29 years later.
"It appearing to the committee of the Town of Groton that
adjoining to some of the land belonging to Amos Lawrence of
Groton, the Town Way is straightened and some of it taken
by his fence and he being willing to purchase some of said
Town way according to the Town's vote in that case made on
November 4, 1734 - in consideration of four pounds, seven-
teen shillings and sixpence, old tenor, payed to us for the
use of the Town, have sold to the said Amos Lawrence to have
and to hold to him and his heirs and assigns forever - 78
poles of land adjoyning to his own land on both sides of the
highway - square with Samuel Scriptures land
p.873 The Lawrence Family
on the east side of the way and so running until it comes
to land belonging to the heirs of Nathaniel Sawtell, Esq.,
leaving the road four poles wide at the least and we do
hereby order the instrument to be recorded in the Town
book as a Good Title to him and his heirs and assigns for-
ever - witness our hands, the 2nd day of May, anno domini,
1749. Entered by Thomas Tarbell, Town Clerk. William
Lawrence, Daniel Farnsworth & Thomas Tarbell, Committee."
Amos Lawrence, although now a resident of Groton, chose a
wife from his native town. He married, November 7, 1749,
Abigail Abbott of Lexington, Mass. He father, Nehemiah
Abbott, removed from Andover to Weston in 1714 and again,
about five years later to the south-west part of Lexington
now within the township of Lincoln. The east part of Concord,
the south-west part of Weston were incorporated as the 2nd
precinct of Concord in 1746.
p.88
Nehemiah Abbott was a highly respected citizen of Lexington,
and at different times filled the offices of school-committee
man, assessor and town Treasurer. His daughter, Abigail
Abbott was born January 26, 1721 and was baptized when three
days old. She was admitted to the Church Feb 5, 1738. Although
and authentic record exists of the date of the marriage of
Amos Lawrence and Abigail Abbott - the place is not mentioned.
It is probable that the ceremony was performed at Lexington,
where the parents of both parties resided, married by the Rev.
John Hancock who had been the minister of the First Parish
for 51 years and who had also baptized each of them in in-
fancy.
He was the grandfather of the distinguished Revolutionary
patriot of the same name. The records of marriages kept
by Mr. Hancock prior ot 1750 were unfortunately lost. It is
possible, however, that the Rev. William Lawrence, a nephew
of the bridegroom, may have been the officiating clergyman,
as he had been recently ordained at Lincoln, in the immediate
neighborhood of the Abbott's residence.
At about the time of his marriage, Amos Lawrence purchased
several tracts of land in Groton, nearly three hundred acres,
in all, probably considering this to be a judicious mode of
investing the money recently inherited by him under his
father's Will. And here we may remark that a predilection for
landed property seems to have been from early times, a promin-
ent family characteristic, and the same trait is observable
in later generations.
p.89 The Lawrence Family.
Amos Lawence and his wife took up their residence in Groton
on the homestead once occupied by Nathaniel Lawrence, where
their sons, Amos, Jr., Nehemiah and Samuel Lawrence were
born. He soon became interested in town affairs, and was
elected Constable and Collector in 1752. etc etc.
In 1777, Amos Lawrence, one of a committee to make provision
for the settlement of the Rev. Daniel Chapling as Minister
of the Church in Groton. In the following year he was el-
ected Surveyor of Highways. On March 12, 1781, Judge Sulli-
van, Dr. Prescott
p.93 The Lawrence Family.
Captain Amos Lawrence, Dr. Bancroft and Lieut. Elisha Rock-
wood were chosen a committee "to consider and report what
shall be done by the Town to redress the grievances complain-
ed of by the Society at the north end of the Town."
Mrs. Abigail Lawrence, his wife, died January 6, 1784 and
Captain Amos Lawrence died June 20, 1785.
footnote: A hall clock which was given to Abigail Abbott
Lawrence at the time of her marriage to Captain Amos
Lawrence, in 1749, is now owned by Abbott Lawrence, Esq.
of Boston, Mass. On the brass face of the clock is engraved:
"Brand, Boston, England."
p.150 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
1778. March 5. To ditto paid Joseph Allen for
supporting Robert Campbell and
his wife 5 19 6
1778. April 2nd To ditto paid Joseph Moors for
supporting Robert Campbell & wife
fourteen days. 2 19 6
1777. March 17th. To ditto paid Nathan Hobart for
supportin Robert Campbell &
wife. 18 4 3
1778. February 14th To ditto paid Nathan Hobart
for supporting Robert Campbell
and his wife. 5 10 6
1777. August 6th. To ditto paid Josiah Stevens
for 15 gallons of milk, deliv-
ered to Robert Campbell & Wife 0 11 4
1778. Feb. 23rd. To ditto paid Jonathan Lawrence
for supporint Robert Campbell
and his wife. 1 14 5
1777. January To ditto - paid Dr. Oliver
Prescott, Esq. for visits &
medicine, William Adams of
Boston, who was taken sick upon
his return from Camp. 1 0 0
Paid Dr. Oliver Prescott, Esq.
for visits & Medicine for Robert
Campbell, prisoner of War. 0 9 0
1778. April 4th Paid to Ephraim Russell for six
quarts of milk delivered to Robert
Campbell & his wife. 0 3 0
1777. May. To Ephraim Russell for finding
a blanket for his son, Nathan-
iel who was engaged in the
Continental Service. 0 18 0
SCOTS PRISONERS OF WAR.
p.150
GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR
1776. To Ezekiel Fletcher for keep-
ing Alexander Kaldor & his
Scots prisoners of war - six
weeks at 27/6 per week. 8 5 0
p.151 GROTON REVOLUTIONARY PAPERS.
The Committee account for time and expenses, and those
who were chosen at a late Town meeting for the purpose
of hiring Continental and Rhode Island men - the Town
of Groton, to Moses Child and others, viz:
Moses Child for one day to Concord. £ 3: 0: 0
Hiring horse for trip to Concord. 2:14: 0
To Expenses for trip to Concord. 2:10: 0
To journey to Springfield. 4 days at
£3: per day. 12: 0: 0
To horse-hire expense to Springfield
at 3/ per mile. 12: 0: 0
To expences to Springfield. 16:18: 0
Indorsed - Committee Accounts for hiring Soldiers, etc.
Groton - April 14, 1778.
Received of Caleb Woods, one pair stockings & one pr. shoes.
Received of Lt. Solomon Woods, two shirts & one pr. of shoes.
Received of Hezekiah Kemp, one pair of stockings.
Received two pair of stockings from Captain Farwell.
April 20th. Received of Lieut. Wait - a pair of shoes.
Received of Colonel Sartell by ye hand of Jonas Gilson,
one pair of shoes and shirt & one pair of stockings.
Received of William Nutting, one shirt & one pair of stock-
ings.
Received of Amos Ames, one pair of shoes.
Received of old Mr. Oliver Blood, one shirt & three pair
of stockings.
Received of Oliver Blood, Jr. - two shirts.
Received of Thomas Farwell, two shirts.
Received of Enoch Cook, one pair of stockings.
Received of Jonathan Lawrence one pair of shoes.
Received of Isaac Farnsworth's wife, two shirts & a pair of
stockings.
Received of Josiah Hobart, one pair of shoes - and he would
be glad to take them again.
Received of Obadiah Jenkings, one pair of stockings.
Received of Benjamin Page, one shirt & two pair of stockings.
Received of Benjamin Davis, one shirt.
Received of Dr. Bancroft, one pair of shoes.
Received of Abel Bancroft, one pair of shoes.
Received of Mr. Swan, a pair of shoes & a pair of stockings.
James Woods has left a shirt & a pair of stockings at
Colonel William Prescott's.
p.152 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Colonel William Prescott provides one pair of stockings.
Jonathan Lawrence has a pair of stockings we may have
if we want them.
7 pairs stockings.
17 pair shoes
25 shirts
Indorsed - Clothing Account.
SHOES STOCKINGS SHIRTS.
Amos Adams 1
Zachariah Fitch 1
Oliver Shed 1
Mr. Lewis 3
Samuel Gragg 1 2
Samuel Dane 1
Lemuel Parker 1
Daniel Woods 1
Ezekiel Fletcher 1
Nehemiah Holden 1 3 1
_______________________
8 9 1
__________________________
Benjamin Worster 1
James Sanders 1
William Shed 1
Jason Williams 1
Captain Shattuck 5
John Gragg 7
Capt. Sheply & Lt. Ben Lawrence 3
Lieut. John Woods 3
David Woods 1
Moses Child 3
William Derumple 1
Capt. Asa Lawrence 1
April ye 29, 1778.
An account of all that was brought in to the Selectmen
before this day - all the above account paid by orders,
etc.
(Indorsed) The Town of Groton.
p.153 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
SHOES STOCKINGS SHIRTS.
Capt. Amos Lawrence 1 1
Lt. Amos Lawrence 8 1
Lt. Sam'l Lawrence 1
Nehemiah Lawrence 1
Samuel Rockwood 1
Solomon Cooper 1
Mr. Wyman 1 1
Widow Hartwell 1
Timothy Moors 2
Joseph Moors 1 10
Benjamin Stone 1 6
Jonathan Tarbell 6
Nathan Hobart 1
Thomas Hobart 1
John Park 1
Ephraim Russell, Jr. 1
Amos Farnsworth 1
Joseph Allen 1
______________________________
35:35:42 18 7 25
4 8 7 17 28 17
_______ _____________________________
39:43:49 35 x 35 x 42
SHOES STOCK SHIRTS
56 56 56
39 43 49
_______________________
17 13 7
_______________________
14 = 11 = 7
1
_______________________
14 10 7
1
_______________________
13 : 10 7
8 9 1
_______________________
5 : 1 : 6
Indorsed: Clothing Account.
p.154 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
_________________________________________________________
Name Shirts.Stockings.Shoes Shirts.Stockings.Shoes
Benjamin Stone 6 1 Ephrm Ward 1
Wm. Nutting 1 1 Lt. Amos Lawrence 1 1
John Park 1 Ephrm Russell, Jr. 1
Amos Farnsworth 1 Joseph Moors 4 1 1
Caleb Woods 1 1 Ezekiel Fletcher 1
Ben Bancroft, Jr. 1 1 1 Elisha Rockwood 2
Amos Ames 1 Samuel Rockwood 1
Obediah Jenkins 1 Nathan Hobart 1
Capt. Henry Farwell 2 Thomas Hobart 1
Amos Adams 1 Col. Sartwell 1 1 1
Nehemiah Lawrence 2 1 Widow Patch 2
William Swan 1 1 Benjamin Page 2 2
Zachariah Fitch 1 Rebecka Sawtell 1
Lieut. Wate 1 John Tarbell 2 2 2
Thomas Farwell 1 Thomas Bennett 1
Richard Sawtell 1 1 Paul Fletcher 1
Lt. Solomon Woods 2 2 Timothy Moors 2
Lt. Samuel Lawrence 1 Joel Stone of
Harvard, Mass. 3
Oliver Shedd 1 Solomon Cooper 1
Abel Bancroft 1 John Dudley 1
Enoch Cook 1 1 John Gragg 7
Lt. Jos. Rockwood 2 1 Cpt. Job Shattuck 5
Wm. Derumple 1 Benjamin Worster 1
Jonathan Lawrence 1 James Sanders 1
Lt. Lawrence &
Capt. Shepley 3 Lt. John Woods 1
Mrs. Lewis 3 David Woods 1
Hezekiah Kemp 1 William Shedd 1
Oliver Blood 3 3 John French Woods 1
Converse Richardson 2 Jason Williams 1
Samuel Gragg 2 1 Moses Child 6 2
Benjamin Davis 1 Jonathan Tarbell 6
Samuel Dana 1 Nehemiah Holden 1 3 1
______________________________________________________________________
p.155 REVOLUTIONARY WAR PAPERS.
Lemuel Parker 1
Cpt. Asa Lawrence 1
Joseph Allen 1
Mr. wyman 1 1
Josiah Hobart 1 Moses Child 3
Daniel Woods 1
James Woood 1 1
___________________________________________________________________
Indorsed: Clothing Account.
Jonathan Lawrence 1
Deacon Isaac Farnsworth 1 2
Benjamin Worstr 1 Josiah Hobart 1
James Sanders 1 Obadiah Jenkens 1
William Shed 1 Benjamin Page 1 1
Jason Williams 1 Benjamin Davis 1
Capt. Shattuck 5 Dr. Bancroft 1
John Gragg 7 Abel Bancroft 1
Lt. Lawrence 3 William Swan 1 1
Benjamin Shiply 3 John Tarbell 2 3 2
____________ Lt. Sawtell 1
4 8 7 Richard Sawtell 1 1
Shoes Stock Shirts William Bush 1
Caleb Woods 1 1 Lieut. Rockwood 1 3
Lt. Solomon Woods 2 2 Thomas Bennett 1
Hezekiah Kemp 1 Joseph Rockwood 1 1
Cpt. Henry Farwell 1 Samuel Rockwood 1
Lieut. Wait 1 Paul Fletcher 1
p.156 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Colonel Sawtell 1 1 1 James Woods 1 1
William Nutting 1 1 Col. Prescott 1
________________
17 28 17
Amos Ames 1
Oliver Blood 3 1
Oliver Blood, Jr. 2
Thomas Farwell 1
Enoch Cook 1
April ye 29th
An account of all that was brought in to the Selectmen before
this day.
Indorsed - Clothing Account.
This List made May 4, 1778 Shirts Shoes Stockings £ S D
Caleb Woods 1 1
paid in full 3 0 0
Lt. Solomon Woods 2 1
paid by order delivered
to me, Mr. Caleb Woods 6 16
Hezekiah Kemp 1
paid by order 1 4 0
Capt. Henry Farwell 1 Paid by order 2 8 0
Lt. Phinehas Wait 1 Paid by order in
full 1 16 0
Col. Sartell 1 1 1
Paid by order 4 16 0
William Nutting 1 1
Paid by order 2 16 0
Oliver Blood 1 3 Paid by order 5 4 0
Oliver Blood, Jr. 2 Paid by order 3 4 0
Thomas Farwell 2 Paid by order 3 4 0
Enoch Cook 1 Paid by order 1 4 0
Jonathan Lwrence 1 Paid by order 1 16 0
Isaac Farnsworth 7 1 Paid by order £4=8:0
Paid Cash by Dr. Prescott as by
receipt.
£8.0.0 12 8 0
Obadiah Jenkins 1 Paid by order 1 4 0
Benjamin Page 1 2 Paid by order 4 0 0
Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
p.157
Names shirts shoes stockings £ S D
Benjamin Davis 1 Paid by Order 1 12 0
Dr. Bancroft 1 Paid by Order 1 16 0
Abel Bancroft 1 Paid by Order 1 16 0
William Swan 1 1 Paid by Order 3 0 0
James Woods 1 1 Paid by Order 3 0 0
Col. William Prescott 1 Paid by order 1 4 0
Capt. Amos Lawrence 1 Paid by order 1 16 0
Lt. Amos Lawrence 8 1 Paid by order 15 12 0
Lt. Samuel Lawrence 1 Paid by order 1 16 0
Samuel Rockwood 1 1 Paid by order 3 0 0
Solomon Coopper 1 Paid by order 1 4 0
Asahel Wyman 1 1 Paid by order 2 16 0
Widow Hartwell 1 1 4 0
Timothy Moors 2 Paid by Cash 3 4 0
Capt. Joseph Moors 10 1 Two of Capt.
Morse's shirts,
he has taken
out for D. Longley
& and returned 17 16 0
Benjamin Stone 6 1 Paid by cash 10 16 0
Jonathan Tarbell 6 Paid by cash 9 12 0
Nathan Hubburd 1 Paid cash 1 16 0
Thomas Hubburd 1 Paid cash 1 16
_________ __________
43:22:24 £ 140:16:0
This side 43:22:24
Brought over 13:22:25
__________
Whole amount 56:44:49
Shirts Shoes Stockings Brought £ S D
forward £ 140:16:0
John Park 1 Paid by
Order. 1 16 0
Ephraim Russell, Jr. 1 " 1 16 0
Amos Farnsworth 1 1 " 1 4 0
Joseph Allen 1 Paid by Cash 1 16 0
John Tarbell 2 2 3 Paid by Order 10 8 0
p.158 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Lt. Hezekiah Sawtell 1 Paid by order 1 4 0
Richard Sawtell 1 1 Paid by order 3 0 0
William Bush 1 Paid by order in
full. 1 4 0
Lieut. Elisha Rockwood 1 3 Paid by order 5 8 0
Lieut. Joseph Rockwood 1 Paid by order. 1 4 0
Thomas Bennett 1 Paid by order 1 16 0
Paul Fletcher 1 Paid by Town order 1 16 0
Benjamin Worcester 1 Paid by order & Delivered
to Captain Shattuck 1 16 0
James Sanders 1 Paid by order & delivered
to Constable Woods. 1 16 0
William Shedd 1 Paid by order to Capt
Shattuck 1 16 0
Jason Williams 1 Paid by order 1 16 0
Captain Shattuck 5 Paid by order 6 0 0
John Gragg 7 Paid cash 11 4 0
Sheple & Lawrence 3 Paid by order given to
Lt. Bancroft 3 12 0
Lieut. John Woods 1 Paid by order 1 4 0
David Woods 1 Paid by order 1 4 0
Moses Child 3 Also for one cask
£0 12 0 Paid by
order 5 8 0
William Derumple 1 Paid by order 1 4 0
Capt. Asa Lawrence 1 Paid by order 1 16 0
Josiah Hobart 1 Paid by order 1 16 0
Jacob Gragg 1 1 Paid by order 4 0 0
Nehemiah Holden 1 1 3 Paid by cash 7 0 0
Mr. Lewis 2 Paid by order 3 12 0
Oliver Shedd 1 Paid by order 1 16 0
Capt. Zach Fitch 1 3 Paid by Town Order 1 16 0
Amos Adams 1 Paid by Town Order 1 16 0
In Full 1 4 0
___________
233.16.0
p.159 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
£ S D
Due to Jacob Gragg
by mistake in his
order paid by order 12 0
13:23:25 Total _________
£234.8.0
Shirts Shoes Stockings
May 5th, 1778 Delivered - N. Holdin 45 45 45
May 4th, 1778 Delivered - Eleazer Ames 1 1 1
Remains at Swan's 7 2 3
at Major Moors 2
___________________
55 48 49
12. 24. 26
43. 24. 23
__________
55. 48. 49
Due to Mr. John Tarball for cash borrowed: 18 dollars.
Due to Joseph Moors - Cash 0:14:0
Indorsed - Clothing Account.
___________________________
Lt. Mosher, Sr. - Eleazer Ames is in need of his shirt,
stockings and shoes, and we as Selectmen for the Town of
Groton, are willing to deliver them to him your certifying
to us that you will inform his Colonel that he may not draw
them again.
Groton, May 4, 1778 Isaac Farnsworth
Joseph Moors
John Tarbell
Oliver Prescott
Selectmen for Groton.
Gentlemen: According to your desire, I shall send Eleazer
Ames to his Captain. Sire, Yours,
John Mosher, Lieutenant
p.160 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
SHIRTS STOCKINGS SHOES
Lieut. Joseph Rockwood 1 1 0
William Derumple 1
Jonathan Lawrence 1
Captain Sheple. 2 lbs of wool 1
Mr. Lewis 3
Hezekiah Kemp 1
Oliver Blood 2
Converse Richardson 2
Lt. Benjamin Lawrence, Sr. 2
to make up Capt. Sheple's
wool into Stockings.
Samuel Gragg 2 1
Benjamin Davis 1
Mr. Samuel Dana 1
Lemuel Parker 1
_______________________
6 6 6
Moors 3 3 3
Child 6
26 1 19 0
5 Credit 1 = 4-9-0
2 = 10 : 0 __________
___________
33 = 10 : 0 14-3-0
__________
£41 0 8:0 3:9
______________________
Benjamin Stone 1 shirt
William Nutting "
Jonathan Park 1 pair of shoes.
Amos Farnsworth 1 pair of stockings.
Caleb Woods 1 pair of shoes & 1 pr. stockings.
Benjamin Bancroft, Jr. 1 pr. shoes; 1 pr Stock's & shirt.
Amos Ames 1 pair of shoes.
p.161 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Obadiah Jenkings 1 pair stockings.
Capt. Henry Farwell 2 pair stockings.
Samuel Lawrence 2 shirts stockings Shoes
5 6 4
Amos Adams 1
Nehemiah Lawrence 2
William Swan 1 1
Zachariah Fitch 1
Lieutenant Wait 1
Thomas Farwell 1
Richard Sawtell 1
Lieut. Solomon Woods 2 2
Lieut. Samuel Lawrence 1
Benjamin Stone (more) 5 1
Oliver Shed 1
Abel Bancroft 1
Enoch Cook 1 1
__________________________________
13: 12: 14.
Shirts Stockings Shoes
_______________________
13 12 14 56 56 56 56:14
2 6 8 19 24 28 Whole
6 6 6 _________ Lawful
______________________ 37 32 28 Money.
19 24 28 __________
13
__
24 Wanting
Widow Mary Hartwell - One pair of stockings.
Nehemiah Holden Two pair of stockings.
Isaac Farnsworth 2 shirts & one pr. stockings.
750 1=15=8=2 6:11:3
375 1=18=1=3 4 1 2
________ __________ _______
1125 3:13=10=1 16 1 0
10 1 3
_________
1:18 0 3
11.
p.163 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
To clothing delivered to Captain Joseph Hosmer for the Contin-
ental Army, agreeable to the Resolves of the General Court,
June 16, 1778.
39 Shirts@ 48/ £93.12.0
15 prs stockings @ 30/ 22.10.0
39 prs of shoes @ 48/ 93.12.0
Groton, December 21, 1778 Total £209.14.0
__________
In the name of the Selectmen.
Oliver Prescott.
Copy.
Allowed for Transport - 17 miles 3/ 2-14-0
__________
£209.14.0
January 9, 1779 Examined & allowed. - Committee.
p.163 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel A. Green.
State of the Massachusetts Bay to the Selectmen of the
Town of Groton.
To sundry articles of clothing delivered to Captain
Joseph Hosmer for the Continental Army, agreeable to
a Resolve of the General Court, June 16, 1778.
To 39 shirts@40/ £ 78 0 0
To 15 pr. of stockings @30/ 22 10 2
To 39 pr. of shoes @ 48/ 93 12 0
_____________
Total £194 2 0
Groton. December 21, 1778.
Selectmen of Groton.
Endorsed: Bay State - to Groton.
__________________
Clothing provide for the Soldiers - agreeable to an order
of the General Court, passed June 16, 1778.
Name shirts stockings shoes £ S D
_________________________________________________________
Nathan Hubbard 8
Paid Nathan Hubbard by Lieut. A. Lawrence 72 dollars.
Solomon Cooper 1 1 2 14 0
Widow Esther Lamson 1 1 Paid by town order 2 14 0
Widow Esther Wait 2 Paid by town order 3 12 0
Isaac Farnsworth 6 1 Paid Farnsworth in full,
42 dollars.
Captain Fitch 1 6 N.B. Special agreement Dec. 17
1779 - paid by Order: 54 dollars
Major Moors 9 3 12 - 6 pair shoes since paid
to Major Moors in full -
213 dollars.
p.164 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Captain Shattuck 4 5 8 Paid Capt. Shattuck 121 dollars
in full for all the clothing he
found. Josiah Lakin's stockings
and the shoes, called 9 dollars a
pair.
John Tarbell 7 6 3 Paid John Tarbell by Lieut. Ban-
croft - 99 dollars. June 7. Paid
John Tarbell 8/ in full for cloth-
ing.
In the store 8 2 2
____________
Total 39 15 39
November 21, 1778.
David Woods Paid by Town Order £ 1.10.0
June ye 7. 1779 Paid Joseph Moors for one pair of stockings
by order which was forgotten to be set down.
Dec. 21, 1778 Agreed to pay five dollars for each pairs of
stockings and six dollars for each shirt.
June 7, 1779 Paid Phinehas Hobart by order for two pair
of shoes - that had been forgot to set down.
£5: 0: 0.
253 60
15 18 0
__________
75 18 0
1 2 0
__________
77 0 0
Indorsed - Clothing for the Army account.
_________
February 15, 1779. Clothing received for the Soldiers,
from Mr. John Stone - two shirts. £ 3 12 0
from Ephraim Russell, Jr. 11 pr of shoes 29 14 0
also two pair of stockings 3 0 0
from the widow Collier - 2 pr of stockings 3 0 0
p.165 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
By Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Of Major Moor's - eight pair of shoes and one pair of
stockings.
Of Josiah Lakin's wife - 5 pair of stockings 7 10 20
Of John Tarbell - 10 pair of stockings. 15 0 0
also two town shirts 3 12 0
Benjamin Page - one pair of stockings 1 10 0
One pair of stockings of David Woods's,
which was brought in and entered on another
list the within is all paid.
_____________
We hereby acknowledge ourselves to be inlisted into the
Continental Army, agreable to the Resolves of the Great
and General Court of the 20th of April last, for raising
two thousand men to reinforce General George Washington
and promise to serve in said Army accordingly, as one of
the men assigned the Town of Groton for that purpose and
to sign any other proper enlistment therefor, if required.
Witness our hand this 11th of May, 1778.
Simeon Foster
John Sheple, Jr.
Shattuck Blood, Jr.
January 18, 1779.
This day received of the Town's money, the sum of
£19-2-0
The State Treasurer's Order on Constable
Wait £212=5
Received £159, in part.
Received 53-5
212-5
________
Indorsed. Pay.
Benjamin Beels of Rindge in ye State of New Hampshire &
Anna Lawrence of Groton - entered January 9, 1779.
Without doubt this is a publishment, as the couple were
married on May 11, 1779.
p.166 Groton Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Edmund Farnsworth
The widow, Mary Hartwell of Groton, testifies & saith
that her son, Edmund Farnsworth went and lived with a
man at Acton, and was to have been bound as an apprent-
ice, if he liked his place; but being disoriented, he
enlisted in the army in the sixteenth year of his age,
upon which his Master never paid him any wages and with-
held his clothing. That he served as a soldier in Captain
Moor's Company and went to York; after his return from
York he came to Groton and lived with the deponent all
winter and on the 17th of March, 1777, he enlisted into
the Continental Army during the war and received his
Bounty from Groton and lived with her until he marched
again. Mary X Hartwell - X her mark.
Middlesex June 24, 1778.
The above named Mary Hartwell made oath to the truth of
the above deposition, by her subscribed before Oliver
Prescott, Justice of the Peace.
This certifies that the Selectmen of Groton informed me
that they numbered Edmund Farnsworth for Groton.
June 24th, 1778. Oliver Prescott.
______________
Chary Valley - September 11, 1778.
This may certify that we the subscribers have enlisted our-
selves into the Continental service for three years and do
hereby engage to serve for the town of Groton or any other
town or person and do hereby empower Capt. Lieutenant Jonas
Parker to receive the town's bounty for each of us.
As witness: Yocham Vanalstine.
(his mark)
Test: Peter Wright. Andrew Strander
(his mark)
Cherry Valley. October 16, 1778.
These are to certify that Youghem Valastine, in Colonel
Alden's Regiment has appeared before me, this day, and has
taken the oath of fidelity to the State; according to the
regulation of the Congress, to qualify him as a soldier.
William Johnston, Justice.
p.167 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
REVOLUTIONARY PAPERS.
Cherry Valley - October, 1778.
These may satisfy that Andre Astrander, now in Colonel
Alden's Regiment has appeared before me, and has quali-
fied by Oath, according to the Acts of Congress, in order
to qualify him for a soldier in the Continental Army.
William Johnston, Justice of the Peace.
________________
Cherry Valley - 30th November. 1778.
This certifies that I have mustered Yocham vs Alstine
and Andrew Ostrander for Captain Parker as soldiers
in the Continental Service in the late Colonel Alden's
battallion.
Richard Lash D.C Muster - Northern Department
Fort Alden - 28th March, 1779.
I do hereby certify that the within mentioned Richard
Lash is a deputy Continental muster master for the
Northern Department. D. Whiting, Major Commander.
These men are engaged for three years.
Jonas Parker, Capt. Lt.
A true copy.
May 31, 1779. Received of Oliver Prescott, Esq., two
hundred pounds lawful money in full satisfaction for
a town's bounty for two soldiers viz: Andrew Astrander
and Yocham Vanallstine, enlisted into the Continental
Army for three years from November, 1778. And are
soldiers in the late Colonel Alden's Regiment.
Jonas Parker, Capt. Lt.
£200.
___________________
Ducal McKenzy, born in Don Robin, Southerlinshire,
aged 25 years, January last - Lieut. Colonel Campbell's
71st Regiment - is 5 feet - 3 inches. John Creige.
born at Balereif in the Parish of Aberleddy, in the
County of East Louden - aged 25 yrs. - Lt. Col.
Campbell's 71st Regiment - 5 feet - 6-1/2 inches.
Peter Hooy, born in the city of Edinburg and the Parish
of West Kirk - in mid Louden - aged 19 years - Lieut.
Colonel Campell's 71st Regiment - 5 feet, 10 inches.
p.168 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Mr. Gordon Dr
The journies and med.'s in the Family from Balenerif,
Aberledy.
See page 142 for an account of the capture of these
Scotsmen who were taken on the "George." Perhaps
these men afterward re-enlisted on the side of the
Americans.
Archibald Campbell was the Lieutenant Colonel of the
Second Battalion of the 71st Regiment of Highlanders.
Robert Campbell, mentioned below, was a prisoner of
war. See pages 149 and 150, for several allusions to
him and his wife.
______________
Name Regiment Company Stature,
Feet - Inches.
Robert Campbell Colonel Campbell Capt. Louring Campbell 5/10
age complexion where born mark
40 light Parish of Kenmore
_______________________
Boston. February 15, 1779.
Received of the Town Treasurer of Groton, by the hand of the
Honorable Oliver Prescott, Esq., a note of hand for one
hundred and forty pounds, payable in one year with interest,
as a bounty from said town of Groton, to John McGee, a
soldier enlisted during the War in Colonel James Wesson's
Regiment. B. White.
Brookline.
February 12, 1779.
This may certify that John MacGee is a soldier in my
regiment & enlisted during the War and is Returned for
no Town in the State & at liberty to be returned for ye
Town of Groton: James Wesson.
p.169 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Groton. August ye 24: 1779.
Then rd of Jonathan Stone, one bushel of rye for the use
of my family. Per Jemima Longley.
Indorsed - D. Longley's wife, received.
__________________
The Town of Groton Dr. for three days I spent in hiring
men for the Continental Army & the Rhode Island Service.
£7:4:0
Amos Lawrence, Jr.
Groton. October 4, 1779.
Paid by order
__________
State of Massachusetts Bay - In the House of Represenatives.
January 12th, 1780.
Resolved that Joseph Hosmer, Esq., be, and he is hereby
directed forthwith to remove all the Powder in the maga-
zine at Groton, to the following Towns, viz: one-third of
it to Concord, one third to Billerica and one third to
Woburn - to be delivered into the care of the Selectmen
of said Towns - he taking their receipt therefor, which
he is directed to lodge with the Board of War, and as soon
as said powder is removed, that the Guards now doing duty
at said magazine in Groton be discharged from any further
service there, and that said Joseph Hosmer, Esq., lay his
acccount of the expense of removing the same before the
Committee on Accounts for allowance & payment.
Sent up for Concurrence.
John Hancock, Speaker.
In Council - January 13th, 1780.
Read and Concurred.
John Avery. D Sr
Consented to by the major part of the Council
True Copy.
Attest
John Avery - Defense Secretary.
p.170 Groton During the Revolution.
Copy of ye Pay Roll for ye six months men.
Name Whole Amount to Pay.
Levi Lawrence £11 = 15 - 8
Richard Holden 11 = 6 - 8
Job Shattuck, Jr. 13 = 4 - 0
Moses Ames 12 = 5 - 0
Peter Stevens, Jr. 13 = 1 - 4
John Trowbridge, Jr. 13 = 1 - 4
Ephraim Stone 13 = 1 - 4
Ebenezer Tarbell 13 = 1 - 4
Ebenezer Farnsworth, Jr 10 - 14 - 8
Thaddeus Bancroft 9 = 10 - 8
Sal. Whitney 13 = 1 - 4
John Gragg, Jr. July 8th.
Roger Lawrence 11 = 1 - 4
Nathaniel Blanchard 13 = 1 - 4
Ezekiel Porter 13 = 1 - 4
William Farwell, Jr. 13 = 1 - 4
Benjamin Tarbell, Jr. 9 = 14 - 8
Samuel Parker 12 = 16 - 0
Daniel Fletcher 13 = 1 - 4
Samuel Blood 13 = 1 - 4
Charles Edes 10 = 14 - 8
Simeon Lakin 9 = 14 - 8
_____________
£264 = 1 - 4
Indorsed. Pay Roll for 6 month's men - Copy of the Pay Roll
for the 6 months men in the year 1780.
________________
Groton - May 9th, 1782.
Received of the Selectmen of the Town of Groton, a Receipt
of One Hundred & Sixty-four pounds, one shilling & four
pence - Signed by Henry Gardner, Esq., Treasurer for the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, as part of the Specie Tax
for the year 1781. Which sum I the subscriber promise to
pay to the persons who were soldiers, in the Continental
Army, six months in the year 1780 - for the Town
p.171 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
of Groton, a schedule of whose names and severla sums
they are respectively to Receive. I also received from
said Selectmen - as Witness my hand.
Attest Jonas Stone
Joseph Moors
Indorsed - Jonas Stone's Receipt to Selectmen for Soldiers
Pay 6 months.
____________________
Charlston Eads, soldier in Lieutenant-Colonel's Company
in the 15th Massachusetts Regiment, having served five
months and two days, is hereby discharged from said Regi-
ment, agreeable to General Orders of yesterday.
Given under my hand at Westpoint
this third day of December, 1780.
Timothy Bigelow, Colonel.
Danby - December 11, 1780 - Issued four days' provisions.
Thomas Pratt - A C I
Litchfield - December 14, 1780 - Served the within three
days' rations J. White A C I
Served with three day's rations - December 18.
Moses Church A C I
Groton - March ye 21st, 1781 - Sir pay my wages to my
master, Isaiah Edes and you will oblige - yours
Test Charlestown Edes, his mark.
Isaac Farnsworth.
The initial letters, A C I as given in this paper, stand
for Assistant Commissary of Issues.
______________
Samuel Blood, soldier in the 5th Massachusetts Regiment of
Light Infantry Company - has not drawn any blanket from the
Public. W: Bancroft, Ensign - 5th Massachusetts
Regiment.
West Point - January 8th, 1781.
p.172 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Ebenezer Farnsworth, soldier in the 15th Massachusetts
Regiment, having served four months and twenty-five days,
is hereby discharged from said regiment. Agreeable to
General Orders of the Second Instant.
Given under my Hand in Garrison at West Point this 4th day
of December, 1780.
Filed off. Timothy Bigelow, Colonel
Benjamin Moors
Roger Lawrance
Samuel Parker mustered 13th July
R. Lawrence - Discharged December 12th.
Samuel Parker - Discharged December 9th.
Below - a Printed Form.
This certifieth that Richard Holden has
served five months & two days in the 15th
Massachusetts Regiment, and has conducted
himself as a good and faithful Soldier, and
is hereby discharged the Service.
Given under my hand - at West Point
this twelvth Day of December, 1780.
Timothy Bigelow, Colonel.
__________________________________________
Written on the back: Mustered July 4, 1780
Ephraim Stone
Ebenezer Tarbell
Levi Lawrence
William Farnsworth
Soloman Whitney
Moses Ames
Jonathan Trowbridge
Peter Stevens
filled off.
p.173
Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Revolutionary Papers.
Levi Lawrence, soldier in the 15th Massachusetts Regi-
ment, having served five months and eight days - (is
agreeable to the General orders, hereby discharged the
from the service. Given under my hand at West Point,
this 18th day of December, 1780.
Sylvanus Smith, Captain Comdt. 15th
Massachusetts Regiment.
Issuing Comissary at several post are requested to
furnish the within named soldier with provision to
carry him to Groton, in the state of Massachusetts.
West Point - December 18, 1780.
Silvanus Smith, Captain-Commander.
15th Massachustess Regiment.
This certifies that the within discharged soldier had
drawn provision to include the nineteenth instant.
Seth Hamlin, A.C. Issues.
West Point, December 19th.
Issued three day's rations.
December 21. J. White A C I
December 23rd. Served with three days rations.
for Moses Church, A C I. J. Williston.
Filled off.
This certifies that James Marrs of Groton, is a soldier
in the Regiment whereof Timothy Bigelow, Esq. is Colonel
and is enlisted for the Town of Groton, to serve during
the present war. Henry Haskell, Lieut. Commander.
p.174 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
The bearer hereof, Benjamin Mors, a six months man,
has served as a good soldier in the 15th Massachusetts
Regiment - is discharged from the service of the United
States.
Given under my hand at Fishkill, the 5th Day of December,
1780. - J. Bailey, Colonel Commandant.
For B. Storer, Esquire.
A C Issues.
Fishkill, December 5th.
Served with three days' rations for John White - A C I.
D. White.
December 10th - served with three days' rations -
Moses Church A C I. Filed off.
This may certify that Job Shattuck of Lieut. Col. Company
has not received a blanket from the public - neither has
he received any wages as yet. John Warrn, Ens. 15th
Massachusetts Regiment. West Point, January 1st, 1781.
This certifies that Ephraim Stone, soldier, in a Massa-
chusetts regiment commanded by Colonel R. Putnam, has not
received a blanket from the public. Daniel Simonds, Ens.
West Point, January 9, 1781.
Ezra Newhall, Lieut. Colonel Cdt.
p.175 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Issuing Commissaries at the several posts are requested
to furnish the above named soldier with provision suffi-
cient to carry him to Groton, Massachusetts.
Ezra Newhall. Lt. Col. Commandant.
West Point. 9th. 1781.
Filed off.
This may certify that Benjamin Tarbell, soldier in the
15th Massachusetts Regiment, has not drawn any blanket
from the public. W. Bancroft, Ens. 15th Mass. Regiment.
Totway - November 19th, 1780.
Ebenezer Tarbell, a soldier in a Massachusetts Regiment
commanded by Colonel R. Putnam - having served six months
it being the full term of his enlistment - is discharged
the Service. Given under my hand at West Point, January
9, 1781. Ezra Newhall, Lt. Colonel, Cdt.
Issuing Commissaries at the several posts are requested
to furnish the above named soldier with provision suffic-
iant to carry him to Groton, Massachusetts state.
West Point, January 9th, 1781. Ezra Newall, Lieut. Col-
onel, Cdt. Filed off.
John Trowbridge, a drummer of a Massachusetts Regiment
commanded by Colonel Rufus Putnam, has served six months
as a good soldier and is hereby discharged from the ser-
vice of the United States.
Given under my hand at headquarters, West Point, January
9th, 1781. Ezra Newhall, Lt. Colonel, Cdt.
p.176 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
This is to request all issuing commissaries on the Road
at the several Posts, to serve the above sodier with provi-
sion sufficient enough to carry him to Groton in the state
of Massachusetts. Ezra Newhall, Lt. Colonel,
Commandant.
West Point - January 9th, 1781.
Filed off.
____________
Salmon Whitney, a soldier in a Massachusetts Regiment
commanded by Colonel Rufus Putnam, has served six months
as a good soldier and is hereby discharged from the ser-
vice. Ezra Newhall, Lieut. Col.
Commandant.
Given under my hand at West Point, January 9, 1781.
Filed off.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts to the Selectmen of the Town
of Groton.
For the bounty, or hire of twenty one men to serve in the
Continental Army for three years, or during the war, agree-
able to the resolves of the General Court - December and
March last, viz.
William Tarball £90 0 0
Oliver Lakin, Jr. 95 12 0
Ezekiel Porter 93 10 0
John Stevens 93 10 0
Moses Chase 94 0 0
Charleston Edes 90 0 0
John Pierce 78 12 0
Harbor Farnsworth 98 8 0
Joshua Parker 91 4 0
Elijah Nutting 90 0 0
David Farwell 90 0 0
Asa White 90 0 0
Amos Dole 98 2 0
Eleazer Green, Jr. 98 16 5
Joseph Bancroft 93 10 0
John Goddard 90 0 0
p.177 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Edmund Holden 90 0 0
Amos Shedd 87 0 0
Benjamin Tarbell, Jr. 90 6 0
Calvin Russell 93 0 0
Joseph Lakin 93 0 0
___________
Hard Money.
N.B. Two of the above named men, viz: Calvin Russell
and Joseph Lakin were hired and mustered in season.
Tis expected the said Russell will join the Army immedi-
ately - the said Lakin has absconded. Groton. Nov 6,
1781.
_________________
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
A return of the number of men raised by the Town of
Groton, in the County of Middlesex, as Soldiers to
serve in, or to recruit, or to reinforce the armies
of the United States, & the bounties paid them for
their respective services, agreeable to the requisi-
tion of the General Court, as by their Resolve dated
July 11, 1783 - vis:
______________________________________________________
No.Men Bounty Total.
Eight months at Cambridge 1775. 93 5£0.0 465.0.6
Six Weeks at Cambridge, 1775 24 1 0.0 24.0.0
Two months at Cambridge, Feb.
& March, 1776 22 1 6.9 29.8.6
In consequence of Resolve,
June 24th, 1776 37 6 4.10 230.18.10
Ditto Sept 10, 1776. 20 3 11.4 71.6.8.
Ditto Nov. 30, 1776. 22 3 11.4 78.0.4.
Ditto Dec. 1st, 1776 27 8 0.6 216.13.6
Four Months at Dorchester, 1776 11 0 6.0 3.06.0
Three Months at Boston, 1776 9 0 4.0 1.16.0
Six Months at Hull, 1776 1 2 23.6 2.13.6
By order Councel Apr. 12, 1777. 10 0 6.0 3. 0.0
p.178 Groton During the Revolution.
By Resolve April 30, 1777 10 17.6.8. 173.6.8.
Ditto June 14, 1777 1 0.6.0 0.6.0.
Six months at Providence 6/24/1777 17 0.12.0 10.4.0
By Resolve, August 9, 1777. 12 5.08.4 65.0.0
By Resolve, August 9, 1777. 24 0.16.0 19.4.0.
By Resolve, Sept. 22, 1777. 38 0.08.0 15.4.0
By Resolve, Feb'r. 7, 1778. 22 0.06.0 6.12.0
By Resolve, April 18, 1778 6 20.07.0 122.5.0
By Resolve, April 20, 1778 16 32.10.0 520.0.0
9 months at Rhode Island, 1778 7 0.10.0 3.10.0
6 months at Rhode Island, 1778 6 0.06.0 1.16.0
6 months at Cambridge, 1778 1 0.12.0 0.12.0
9-1/2 months at Providence. 15 0.18.0 13.10.0
6 weeks, ditto. 12 0.08.0 4.16.0
_______, at R.I., Apr. 8, 1779 4 2.16.0 11.04.0
Pursuant to a Resolve, 4/27.1779. 4 0.09.0 1.16.0
Two mos. at Providence, from June
8th, 1779 8 1.15.0 13.00.0
Nine Months C Army fm. June 9, 1779 10 24.0.0 240.0.0
Agreeable to a Resolve Sep.17,1779 2 1.15.0 3.10.0
ditto. Oct.9, 1779 14 5.00.0 70.0.0
To guard conventin troops at
Cambridge 4 1.04.0 4.16.0
Five months at Providence 2 13.10.0 27.0.0
Pursuant to a Resolve 6.22.1780 26 13.10.0 351.0.0
The sum brought over in hard money by the scale: £2804-15.0
Middlesex ss. January 31, 1784.
We have examined the Town books & the militia Officer's Books,
together with the best vouchers that we could obtain, and the
afore-going is a true account according to the best of our
knowledge. Oliver Prescott, Selectman
Abel Bancroft of
Amos Lawrence, Jr. Groton.
_____________________________
p.179 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
February 2, 1784. Exhibited on oath before Israel Hobart, Esq.
A Copy.
Indorsed - a copy of the Bounties paid since the War to the
Soldiers, as returned to the General Court. February 1784 &
the Resolve enclosed.
October, November & December, 1778.
The Town of Groton, to Abraham Moors, Dr for 3 bushels and a
half of Rye at three pounds twelve shillings per bushel and
also one bushel of Indian corn. £12:12:0
2:08:0
________
£15.00.0
A true Accompt. Abraham Moors.
December 6, 1779. Paid per Town Order - £15.
Indorsed - Major Moors, Acct.
March, 1779. The Town of Groton to Joseph Moors for grain
delivered to the wife of Zachariah Longley - viz:
March, 1779 Dr for one bushel of Rye £3:12:0
March, 1779 Dr for one bushel Indian corn 3: 0:0
April, 1779 Dr for one bushel Indian corn 3:12:0
May, 1779 Dr for one bushel Indian corn 6: 0:0
May, 1779 Dr for one bushel Indian corn 4:10:0
June, 1779 Dr for one bushel of peck & rye 7:10:0
June, 1779 Dr for 3 pecks of Indian corn 3:07:6
July, 1779 Dr for one bushel of rye 6:00:0
August, 1779 Dr for one bushel of rye 6:00:0
Sept., 1779 Dr for half a bushel of corn 1:16:0
Sept., 1779 Dr for 20 pounds of beef at 4/per pound.
4:00.0
Nov., 1779 Dr for one bushel of Indian Corn 3:12.0
________
57:09-6
Attest: Joseph Moors.
December 6, 1779. Paid by Town order and all but one bushell
Carried into the State Com'te £3:15.
p.180 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
JOHN CAMPBELL BROWN
John Campbell Brown, mentioned below as a school-master, was
married on March 16, 1775, to Lucy Chase, of Groton; and for a
period of nearly three years, his marriage is the last one re-
corded in the Town-Book, owing, probably to the confusion of
the times, during the Revolutionary War.
This can certify, by the underwritten subscribers, that the
whole society of the South part of the Town of Groton, did
agree with John Campbell Brown, to teach school one month
upon trial, from the 2nd day of January, 1775. At the expera-
tion of which said month, a meeting was appointed and the said
Society met and approved of ye government of the school and
agreed with ye said John Campbell Brown for the time of six
weeks longer at four dollars per month, at the end of ten or
twelve days of ye said time, one or two of ye said Society
began to be afraid of the reward becoming due to the Master
at the expiration of the time, that should have to disburse
it themselves, as such, the purport of this instrument is to
desire the Selectmen to insure the reward at the end of the
time as ye majority of ye society are very well content with
ye orders and rules of the present school. Signed:
Subscribers Names:
William Park, Jun'r
Benjamin Farwell
William Park
Ebenezer Farnsworth
Daniel Stone
Joseph Chace, Jr.
Joseph Chace
Ephraim Parker.
Mr. Jonathan Park exhibited this request, sayeth that
Jonathan Stone, Isaac Stone and Nathaniel Stone were
content. February 13, 1775.
p.181 SHAY'S REBELLION.
The following papers relating to Shay's Rebellion were
found in a wrapper which had been used as a part of the
warrent for a town-meeting, held on April 2, 1787. They
were included in the small parcel mentioned on p.113.
Town Meeting - Monday, 2nd day of April, 1787.
1. To choose a Govenor, Lieut. Governor, Counsellors
and Senators.
To choose a Committee to take care of the fish
courses.
To see if the Town will abate the highway rate of
John Simonds, as borne on the late Constable Benjamin
Tarball's list, and also excuse the said Simonds from
working at highways in future until he shall have an
open road laid to his house.
To see if the Town will abate the rates of Abel Far-
well for 1784, Joseph Kemp for 1784 & 1785, Aaron
Farnsworth for 1784, as borne on the late Constable
Benjamin Tarbell's lists - also the rates of Jonas
Blood, in ye late Constable Joseph Rockwood's list
for 1783.
Indorsed. Those who have taken the Oath of Allegiance
and delivered up their arms, etc. 1787.
Groton, January 15, 1787.
We hereby severally acknowledge that we have received
of the Selectmen of Groton, the several quantities of
ammunition from the Town stock, set against each of our
names and are accountable therefor on demand.
p.182 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Name lbs.powder lbs lead flints.
_______________________________________________________
Solomon Russell 1 1-1/2
Joseph Fitch 1 1-1/2
William Fitch 1 1-1/2
David Shattuck 1 1-1/2
Luther Russell 1/2 1
David Moors 1 1-1/2
Abijah Nutting 1 1-1/2
Joseph Chase 1 1-1/2
Abel Lakin 1/2 1 2
Reuben Wilson 1/2 2 2
Joshua Parker 1 1-1/2 2
Simeon Kemp 1/2 2
__________________________________________________________
Worcester ss. Fitchburg 1787.
A List of the names of those persons belonging to the Town
of Groton, who took and subscribed the Oath of Allegiance,
before me, Thomas Cowdin, Justice of the Peace.
Viz.
1787
February 24th - Amos Adams.
(Addressed) For the Town Clerk of Groton.
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
Middlesex ss.
To the Town Clerk of the Town of Groton in said County:
Sir:
This is to certify you, that the persons hereafter named,
having taken a part against government, in the late insurr-
ections, have voluntarily delivered up their arms and taken
and subscribed the oath of Allegience; to this Commonwealth,
agreeable to an Act of the General Court, passed February 16,
1787.
Before me, Israel Hobart, Justice of the Peace.
p.183 SHAYS REBELLION.
These following had as they say, no arms of their own but
borrowed or lent or were otherways ading, to wit:
Oliver Hartwell
John Graves who said he had one he
carried, of Samuel Gragg.
William Parker
Benjamin Parker
Eleazer Green
Jonathan Stevens
Joel Kemp
John Woods
Sampson Prescott
Jotham Woods
Naum Woods
Jacob Gragg, Jr.
Robert Ames, Jr.
David Prescott
Jonathan Frost
John Derumple
Elisha Sever
Joseph Kemp, 18
Joseph Shed
Asa Kemp
Jonas Stone
Ephraim Kemp
Jonathan Blood
Samuel Hartwell
Ezekiel Shattuck
David Lakin
Nathaniel Blanchard
James Woods
Oliver Kemp
Solomon Gilson
Shattuck Blood, Jr.
Jonas Tarbell
Oliver Fletcher, Jr.
John Blood
Salmon Lawrence
Oliver Woods
Oliver Shed
Oliver Shed, Jr.
Eben Tarbell
Joseph Frost
Royal Blood 23
Dated at Groton, the 21st day of March, A.D. 1787.
Israel Hobart.
(addressed) For the Town Clerk of Groton.
Harvard, Massachusetts.
March ye 21, 1787.
A return of the names of those that came before me that
belong to the Town of Groton in the County of Middlesex
and took and subscribed the Oath of Allegiance to the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and delivered up their
arms according to law. Their names are as follows. viz:
Joseph Wetherbee of Groton - blacksmith.
Ebenezer Farnsworth of Groton - laborer
Abel Wetherbee of Groton - laborer
Eleazer Davis of Groton - cordwainer.
p.184 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Abel Morse of Groton - wheelwright.
Jesse Stone of Groton - laborer.
Abel Davis, Jr. of Groton - a miner
Benjamin Frost of Groton - a miner
Timothy Stone of Groton - a miner
Joseph Park of Groton - yeoman
John Moore of Groton - yeoman
John Park, Jr. of Groton - stone cutter.
Josiah Whitney, Justic of the Peace.
To the Town Clerk of Groton.
(addressed to) Mr. Isaac Farnsworth, Groton Town Clerk.
Indorsed. Justice Whitney's return put into my hand by
Jonas Stone, Sunday, April 8th, 1787.
____________________________
To the Town Clerk of Groton.
Sir:
I herewith exhibit the name of ye person in Groton who
has taken and subscribed the Oath of Allegiance to ye
Commonwealth of Massachusetts before me and delivered
up his arms agreeable to Law. viz: Robert Ames.
Ebenezer Champney, Justice of the Peace.
March 23, 1787.
To the Town Clerk of Groton.
Sir:
I herewith exhibit the names of such persons in the Town
of Groton, as have taken & subscribed the Oath of Allegi-
ance to this Commonwealth, before me, and delivered up
their arms, agreeable to Law, viz:
Moody Chase
Joseph Allen
Jacob Chase
Jonathan Tarbell
Thomas Tarbell
Solomon Tarbell
William Lawrance
Asa Lawrance
p.185 Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary War.
Abel Stevens
Jonas Blood
Samuel Hodgkins
Benjamin Morse
Samuel Morse
March 23d, 1787.
I am, Sir, your humble servant.
Oliver Prescott, Justice of the Peace.
N.B. Jonas Blood had no gun and was very poor and weak
in body and mind.
Addressed to the Town Clerk of Groton.
Pepperell, Mass., March 23, 1787.
This may certify that John Bowers, Peter Blood, Asa Blood
and Oliver Parker of Groton, have delivered up their arms
and taken the Oath of Allegiance, according to law. Before
me, William Prescott, Justice of the Peace.
Addressed to the Town Clerk of Groton.
July, 1788 - To the Gentlemen-Selectmen
To 4 mugs cider - 3 mugs 0 3 4 0
August 4. To liquor 0 8 9 0
August 11. To 4 mugs of tod & 2 mugs
of cider 0 3 5 0
Sept. 1st. To Flip Tod and brandy 0 7 2 0
Sept. 6th. To 4 mugs of flip - 1/2 pint
of brandy 0 3 8 0
Sept. 15 To 4 mugs of flip 0 3 0 0
To tod, flip & brandy 0 3 8 0
Sept. 22 To horse bating 0 1 0 0
To committee by order of
the Selectmen 0 5 8 0
September To 4 mugs of toddy & 3 mugs
of flip 0 5 3 0
October To 4 mugs of toddy & 1 pint
of brandy 0 4 4 0
October 27. To 6 mugs of toddy, 4 mugs
of flip & 2 mugs of cider 0 7 10 0
p.186 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
November 1. To 1 quart of brandy & 4 mugs
of flip & 2 sheets of paper. 0 5 10
November 15. To liquor and paper 0 5 3
November 22. To two mugs of toddy 0 1 6
To brandy and toddy. 0 2 3
December 18. To liquor 0 6 8
To one mug of flip 0 0 9
January 1. To flip and toddy & biscuit. 0 10 2 2
January 19. To vittles and drink 0 9 3
To two horses up to hay 0 0 9
February 2. To 1 mug of toddy & 1 glass of
brandy and 4 sheets of paper. 0 1 4
To 2 mugs of toddy & 2 mugs
of flip. 0 3 0
To 2 horsebtins & 2 mugs of
toddy & one pint of brandy 0 3 10
Two of flip 0 3 6
To two mugs of flip & 4 mugs
of toddy & 1/2 pint of brandy 0 5 2
To 1/2 mug of toddy & 1 gil of
brandy 0 0 8 2
February 12. To flip and toddy & cider 0 7 3 2
February 16. To liquor 0 6 1 0
February 20. To liquor and horse bating 0 4 7
February 23. To liquor 0 4 7
p.187 - Blank page.
p.188 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
ILLUSTRATIONS:
of a Counter stamp.
And another counter stamp.
Issued under the Act of 1765.
p.189 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
REVOLUTIONARY ITEMS.
The following articles relating to the Revolutionary period
have been printed, for the most part, in the "Groton Histori-
cal Series." As a matter of general convenience, both to the
reader and the student, they are now brought together in this
volume where they have been arranged mainly in chronological
order. In a few instances, however, changes have been made
in the body of the article, when it is not given as a quota-
tion.
THE STAMP ACT.
I give herewith an engraving of a half-crown stamp, in exact
size, issued under the authority of the famous Act of 1765
which was affixed to certain papers, documents, etc., by
order of the British government. It was the resistance to
this impost, on the part of the American colonies, that
brought about their separation from the mother country.
The Act was soon repealed, however, as the Crown authorit-
ies found it impossible to enforce the law. On a public
occasion, once, in an after-dinner speech on April 19,
1850, Mr. Edward Everett, holding up a specimen of the
stamp, said: "Yes, sir, that bit of dingy paper, stamped
with the two and sixpence sterling, created the United
State of America, and cost Great Britain the brightest
jewel in her Crown."
In the autumn of 1854, I procured at the American legation
in London, one of these memorable stamps. A few years pre-
viously, a certain number of them had been found by the
p.190 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
Commissioners of Inland Revenue, during their removal
from Old Broad Street to the Somerset House, London. Some
of the specimens were given at the time to Americans who
were interested in the matter, and it was one of these that
I was lucky enough to obtain. - Samuel Abbott Green.
Apparently, with a die, an impressiion was made on faded
blue paper pasted over parchment, and fastened to the back
of it by a narrow strip of tin-foil; and a small piece of
white paper, bearing a device as described below, was struck
over the ends of the tin-foil. The impression on the blue
paper is not very deep, but yet quite distinct. It contains
a Crown, with the word - "America" over the top, and the
letter A on one side; and the money value of the stamp is
given at the bottom. In the centre of the impression is a
double Tudor rose surrounded by the motto of the Order of
the Garter. In the cut, the foil is represented on the right
of the rose. The counter-stamp, or small piece of white paper
which was stuck over the ends of the tin-foil, on the back,
had a crown with the letters, "G R," one letter on each side,
and the figure 3 slightly below. And a double cipher or mono
gram of G. R. under the whole.
The blue stamps were intended for deeds, wills and other
formal documents, and the price varied according to circum-
stances. All the specimens that I have seen, appear to have
been cut out of the corners of parchment, which have been
duly embossed, but never used, as the odious Act was re-
pealed so soon.
The stamps for "paper for printing" were made by a cut or
a die. I have seen a copy of "The Halifax Gazette: or the
Weekly Advertiser," Thursday, February 13, 1766, which
bears on the last page, such a stamp in red ink, to which
has been added a rude engraving in type-metal, represent-
ing the Devil with a four-tined fork on his domestic hearth,
in the act of pitching the stamp into the fiery furnace.
In the Supplement to Lossing's "Pictorial Field Book of
the Revolution" (II.877) is given an engraving of what
purports
p.191 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Revolutionary Items.
to be one of the stamps made for the American colonies
in 1765, but this is an error. It is not a stamp struck
for the colonies at all, but for home use in England, and
does not bear the word AMERICA over the crown.
THE TEA TAX.
THE BOSTON TEA PARTY.
The following "Proceedings" are taken from "The Boston
Evening Post," January 3, 1774. It will be noticed that
the meeting was held on the day of the Boston Tea-Party.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE TOWN OF GROTON.
At a meeting of the freeholders and other inhabitants of
the town of Groton, assembled at the public Meeting-House
in said town on Thursday, December 16, 1773.
To consider what is proper for this town to do relative
to the large quantities of tea, belonging to the East
India Company, arrived and expected to arrive in this
Province, subject to an American duty.
Chosen Moderator: James Prescott, Esq. Then the Committee
of Correspondence for Groton laid before them a letter which
had been agreed upon by the Committees of several Towns, to
be sent to all the towns in this Province, in order to know
their minds at this critical juncture; and having read the
same, as also the votes and proceedings of the Town of
Boston, at their late town meetings in November, last -
the Town of Groton came into the following resolves and
votes, unanimously.
That we highly approve of the conduct of the Town of Boston
at their late town meetings aforesaid, and the several re-
solves they came into, relative to the teas sent by the
East-India Company to America - and as we esteem the late
act of Parliament for the benefit of the said India Company
as an intolerable grievance, and a very subtle plan of the
Ministry to ensnare and enslave the Americans, preferring
the public happiness to our own private advantage, we will
readily afford all the assistance in our power to the Town
of Boston and all other of our oppressed American
p.192 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
AT THE RISK OF OUR LIVES AND SUBSTANCE.
brethren, and heartily unite with them in every Constitution-
al method to oppose this and every other scheme that shall
appear to us, to be subversive of American Rights and Liber-
ties, and honorary to his Majesty's Crown and Dignity, at the
risque of our lives and substance.
Voted: That our most cordial thanks be presented to the
inhabitants of the Town of Boston for their wise and spirit-
ed conduct at this alarming crisis, and for their repeated
vigilance and unwearied endeavors, to recover and preserve
the Rights and Liberties of America.
INSERT: MEMBERS OF THE BOSTON TEA PARTY.
Participants in the Boston Tea Party of 1773
History often produces an often inexact record and the Boston Tea Party is an excellent example. Unlike the Declaration of Independence, which had signers, the Boston Tea Party was veiled in secrecy. In fact it was not called the "Tea Party," until many years later. It was called "Destruction of the Tea in Boston Harbor."1 Participants swore themselves to secrecy and some did not acknowledge each other even when boarding the ships, breaking open the chests and dumping the tea. Some never talked about it except among close family members. Lists were produced, but were incomplete. So today, 225 years later, we have those incomplete lists, family oral tradition, and few artifacts to trace participation (several artificacts are to be displayed at Old South Meeting House, Boston). Even years later, some retained secrecy for fear of lawsuits possibly being brought by the British East India Company. Also, some of the participants' families had become well to do and were not proud of
identifying with "civil disobedience," even though it was the most significant act leading to our nation's break with Great Britain.
Some 29 individuals thought to be in the Tea Party are buried in Copp's Hill Burying Ground. Either we know definitely or it is highly likely they are buried there. (Tombstone Inscriptions - Copp's Hill Burying
Ground - sent on request to me personally - Janice Farnsworth)
_________________________
This list of 175 names was compiled from Boston Tea Party Chapter, Daughters of American Revolution; from the 1973 Boston Globe 200th Anniversary Boston Tea Party Special Section; and the book, Tea Leaves, published in 1884 in Boston by Francis S. Drake
In the book, Bold Face indicates the individuals either known to be or
probably buried in Copp's Hill Burying Ground. Rank after name indicates
Revolutionary War Service. The number which follows is the page number in the Whitemore Book in Section B. Age is age when in Tea Party; MCMA indicates member of Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Assn, Boston artisans and tradesmen of that day; Mason indicates membership in a Lodge of Freemasons; and then death date if available.
THE MEMBERS OF THE BOSTON TEA PARTY.
Francis Akeley (Eckley), only one imprisoned for Tea Party.
Nathaniel Barber (Major) Tomb 28 Old Burial Ground (xiv), early
revolutionary and soldier, Mason, died 1787.
Samuel Barnard (Maj.), died 1782.
Henry Bass, early revolutionary, died 1813.
Joseph Bassett (Cpt.), Tomb 65 (xv).
Edward Bates.
Adam Beals Jr.
Thomas Bolter (Cpt.), 38, died 1811.
David Bradlee (Cpt.), 31, died 1811.
Josiah Bradlee, 19, died 1798.
Nathaniel Bradlee, 27, MCMA, died 1813.
Thomas Bradlee, 29, MCMA, Mason, died 1805.
James Brewer (Cpt.), possibly Tomb 22 Old Ground, MCMA, Mason, died 1805.
John Brown (Cpt.), entry 1718, 27, died 1782.
Seth Ingersoll Browne, 23, Bunker Hill, died 1809
Stephen Bruce, 356, Mason, died 1801.
Benjamin Burton (Maj.), 24, died 1835.
Nicholas Campbell, 41, died 1929.
George Carleton
Thomas Chase, early revolutionary, Mason.
Nathaniel Child
Benjamin Clark, Tomb 104, xvi, MCMA, died 1840, three sons may have been in Tea Party also.
Jonathan Clark (Sgt.), possibly Tomb 77 (Dana & Clark) xv.
John Cochran, 24, died 1839.
Gilbert Colesworthy, 29, died 1818.
Gersham Collier, Mason, died 1825.
Adam Collson, 35, early revolutionary, Mason, died 1798.
James Foster Condy, died 1809.
Daniel Coolidge
Joseph Coolidge
Samuel Coolidge
Samuel Cooper (LT), 18, died 1840.
William Cox
Thomas Crafts (Col.), 33, early revolutionary, died 1799.
John Crane (Brig. Gen.), 29, early revolutionary, Mason, died 1805.
… Crockett
Obadiah Curtis
Thomas Dana, Jr. possibly Tomb 77 (Dana & Clark).
Robert Davis (Maj.), 26, early revolutionary, Mason, died 1798.
John DeCarteret
David Decker
John Dickman
Edward Dolbeare, died 1796.
Samuel Dolbeare
John Dyar, Jr.
Joseph Eaton (Cpt.)
Joseph Eayres
Eckley (see Francis Akeley)
Benjamin Edes, possibly 482, 41, early revolutionary, died 1803.
William Etheridge
Samuel Fenno, died 1806.
Samuel Foster (Capt.), died 1778.
Thomas Fracker, Entry 884 (Charter St tombs), died 1806.
Nathaniel Frothingham, Jr. (LT.),Entry 1738, Tomb 27 (Thomas Frothingham and
others) Also possible 1837, Tomb 56; 27, died 1825.
John Fulton, 40.
John Gammell, revolutionary war soldier, died 1827.
Eleazer Gay, possibly 1733 (Ebenezer Gay Tomb 21, 1819)
Thomas Gerrish
Samuel Gore, probably Tomb 112 (1810) with brother Gov. Christopher Gore;
22, MCMA, Mason, died 1831.
Moses Grant, entry 1030, 30, MCMA, died 1817.
Nathaniel Greene, early revolutionary, MCMA.
Timothy Guy
Samuel Hammond, 24, died 1842.
Peter Harrington
William Haskins
William Hendley, 25, Mason, died 1830.
George Robert Twelves Hewes, 31, shoemaker, left diary of Tea Party, died
1840.
John Hicks, 48, killed at Arlington by British retreating from
Lexington-Concord, died April 19, 1775.
Samuel Hobbs, 23, died 1823.
John Hooton (Sgt.), possibly Tomb 15--Hooten & Watts Family Tomb (13).
Evidence indicates the body may have been moved to Mt. Auburn, Cambridge..
Elisha Horton
Elijah Houghton was of Lancaster, Massachusetts.
Samuel Howard (born Hayward), Tomb 120 Old Ground, 21, died 1797.
Edward Compton Howe, 31, died 1821.
Jonathan Hunnewell, possibly Copp's Hill , 14, 1st president MCMA, died
1842.
Richard Hunnewell, probably Copp's Hill Tomb 36, Mason, MCMA, died 1805.
Richard Hunnewell, Jr., possibly Copp's Hill, 16.
Thomas Hunstable, 20, Mason.
Abraham Hunt (Col.), 25, Valley Forge, died 1793.
Daniel Ingersoll, 23, Mason, died 1829.
Daniel Ingoldson
Charles Jameson
Robert Jameson (Cpt.)
Jared Joy
David Kinnison (doubtful he was in Tea Party), died 1852.
Robert Lash, probably because wife Johanna buried here (1114).
Amariah Learned
Joseph Lee (Cpt.), 28, Mason, died 1831.
Nathaniel Lee (Cpt.)
Amos Lincoln (Lt. Col.), Tomb 7 (1805) Old Burial Ground (697), 20, Bunker
Hill, married 2 daughters of Paul Revere, MCMA, Mason, died 1829.
John Locke (Sgt.)
Matthew Loring, possibly Tomb 88; Loring Family Tomb, 1806; 23, died 1829.
Joseph Lovering, 15, MCMA, died 1848.
Joseph Ludden (Sgt.)
David Lyon
Thomas Machin (Cpt.), 29, Bunker Hill, Mason, died 1816.
Ebenezer MacIntosh, 36, early revolutionary, died 1812.
Peter McIntosh
Archibald MacNeil, 23, died 1840.
John Marston (Bombadier), J. B. Marston Tomb, 1810,131)
Martin, probably Wm. P., MCMA.
Thompson Maxwell (LT.), 31, Concord, Bunker Hill, died 1835.
John May (Col.), 25, died 1812.
Mead, probably John, probably Copp's Hill Tomb 22 New Ground, MCMA.
Henry Mellius
Thomas Melville (Maj.), 22, early revolutionary, Mason, MCMA, died 1832.
Aaron John Miller (Dr.)
James Mills
William Molineaux, 57, early revolutionary, died 1774.
Francis Moore
Thomas Moore, 20, died 1813.
Anthony Morse (LT.)
Joseph Mountfort (LT.), 23, MCMA, died 1838.
Eliphalet Newell, 38, artillery officer, Mason.
Joseph Nicholls (Cpt.)
Samuel Nowell
Joseph Pearse Palmer (Major), Mason, died 1788.
Jonathan Parker
Joseph Payson, 30.
Samuel Peck, early revolutionary, Mason.
John Peters, 41, Lexington, Bunker Hill, died 1832.
William Pierce, 29, barber, MCMA, died 1840.
Isaac Pitman (Cpt.)
Lendall Pitts, 26, early revolutionary, MCMA, died 1787.
Samuel Pitts, 28, also early revolutionary.
Thomas Porter, died 1800.
Henry Prentiss (Cpt.), 24, MCMA, Mason, died 1821.
Nathaniel Prentiss, probably 1626 (N. S. Prentiss).
Rev. John Prince, 22, Mason, died 1836,later said he was a witness and not a
Tea Party participant.
Edward Procter (Col.), 40, early revolutionary, Mason, died 1811.
Henry Purkitt (Col.), 18, MCMA, Mason, died 1846.
Seth Putnam
John Randall
Joseph Reed (Cpt.)
Paul Revere (Col.), 38, early revolutionary, MCMA founder, Mason, died 1818.
Benjamin Rice (Cpt.)
Jonathan Dorby Robins
Joseph Roby
John Russell, MCMA, Mason, died 1778.
William Russell (Sgt.-Maj.), 25, Mason, died 1784.
John Sawtelle
George Sayward
Edmund Sears (Cpt.)
Robert Sessions (LT.), 21, died 1836.
Joseph Shed, 41, died 1812.
Benjamin Simpson, soldier, died 1849.
Peter Slater, Jr. (Cpt.), 14, died 1831.
Samuel Sloper
Ephriam Smith
Josiah Snelling, Tomb 31 (1803)(xiv,1681), MCMA, died 1873.
Thomas Spear, died 1789.
Samuel Sprague (Sgt.),19, MCMA, died 1844.
John Spurr (Maj.), 25, died 1822.
James Starr, 32, died 1831.
Phineas Stearns (Cpt.)32, Lexington, Dorchester Hts., died 1798.
Ebeneezer Stevens (Gen.), 22, Revolution + War of 1812, died 1823.
James Stoddard
Elisha Story (Dr.), 30, Lexington, Bunker Hill, died 1805.
James Swan (Col.), 19, Bunker Hill, Mason, died 1831.
Abraham Tower (Sgt.)
Bartholomew Trow (Cpt.)
John Truman, xvi, Tomb 118 Old Ground.
Benjamin Tucker Jr.
Thomas Urann (Cpt.), Mason, died 1791.
James Watson (Cpt.)
Henry Wells (Cpt.), Mason.
Thomas Wells, probably Tomb 18, 26, Tea Party evidence at Old South Meeting
House, died 1810.
Josiah Wheeler (Cpt.), 30, Dorchester Hts., died 1817.
John Whitehead (LT.)
David Williams
Isaac Williams
Jeremiah Williams
Thomas Williams (Sgt.), 19, Lexington, died 1817.
Nathaniel Willis, 18, MCMA, died 1831.
Joshua Wyeth, 16, Revolutionary soldier, died after 1827.
Thomas Young (Dr.), 41, early revolutionary, Army svc., died 1777.
NOTE: Introductory information was taken from discussions 2 October, 1998, with Albert
F. Young of Oak Park, IL, senior research fellow at The Newberry Library, Chicago, and
author of the upcoming books, The Shoemaker and the Tea Party and Masquerade:
The Adventures of Deborah Sampson Gannett in the American Revolution.
Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth
p.192 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Upon a motion made, Voted unanimously, that the inhabitants
of Groton will not buy, sell or make use of any TEA, while
subject to an American duty.
Voted. That the Committee of Correspondence for the Town of
Groton, be desired to wait upon the several shop-keepers and
traders, within this town, and desire them not to buy, seel or
in any way dispose of any tea while subject to an American duty,
as they would avoid the odium of the town.
Voted. That the Committee of Correspondence for the Town of
Groton be desired to forward an attested Copy of the proceed-
ings of this Meeting to the Committee of Correspondence of
Boston.
Voted. That this meeting be adjourned and it was accordingly
adjourned. A true copy. Attested.
OLIVER PRESCOTT, Town Clerk of Groton.
At a Legal Meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town of Groton,
Assembled May 8th, 1773.
Voted to choose James Prescott, Esquire, Oliver Prescott, Esq.,
and Josiah Sawtell, Gentleman, a Committee of Correspondence for
the Town of Groton, unanimously.
Attest, Oliver Prescott, Town Clerk.
p.193 REVOLUTIONARY ITEMS.
THE BOSTON PORT BILL.
Colonel Thomas W. Higginson, on page 174 of his "Young Folks'
History of the United States" (1898), speaks of the effect of
the Boston Port Bill on the public mind and says:
"Of course, the sympathy of other towns, and even of the other
colonies, was at once excited. So a great variety of gifts began
to be sent into the suffering town of Boston - grain from Groton,
and salt fish from Marblehead, and a flock of two hundred anf fifty
sheep from Windham, Connecticut.
The southern colonies sent flour and rice; and the middle colonies
corn and iron; and many towns sent money for the poor; so that the
effect of the Boston Port Bill was entirely different from what the
British government expected.
In this description, Colonel Higginson took his main facts from
Volume IV. (fourth series) of the "Collections of the Massachusetts
Historical Society," where is found a copious correspondence between
a committee of the town of Boston and various contributors for the re-
lief of the sufferers by the Boston Port Bill. The following letter,
written by the Town Clerk of Groton, Massachusetts and the reply by the
Boston Overseers of the Poor, found on pages 7-10 of the volume, are
highly creditable to all concerned: -
Groton, June 28th, 1774.
Gentlemen:
The inhabitants of the Town of Groton, in general, are deeply affected
with a sense of public calamities, and more especially the distresses
of our brethren in the capital of the Province, as we esteem the act of
blocking up the harbor of Boston replete with injustice and cruelty, and
evidently designed to compel the inhabitants thereof to submission of
taxes imposed upon them without their consent, and threatens the total
destruction of the liberties of all British America. We ardently desire
a happy union with Great Britain and the Colonies, and shall gladly adopt
every measure consistent with the dignity and safety of British subjects
for that purpose.
p.194 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTION.
BY DR. SAMUEL A. GREEN.
In full confidence, that the inhabitants of the Town of Boston, will,
in general, exhibit examples of patience, fortitude and perseverance
while they are called to endure this oppression for the preservation
of the liberties of their country, and in token of our willingness to
afford all suitable relief to them, in our power, a number of the in-
habitants of this Town have subscribed, and this day sent forty bushels
of grain, part rye and part Indian corn, to be delivered to the Over-
seers of the poor of said Town of Boston, not doubting but the same will
be suitably applied for that purpose; and we earnestly desire you will
use your utmost endeavor to prevent and avoid all mobs, riots and tumults,
and the insulting of private persons and property. And while the farmers
are cheerfully resigning part of their substance for your relief, we trust
the merchants will not oppress them by raising upon the goods which they
have now on hand and heretofore purchased. And may God prosper every under-
taking which tends to the salvation of the people.
We are, Gentlemen, your friends and fellow-countrymen. In the name and by
order of the Committee of Correspondence for the Town of Groton, Massachus-
etts. Oliver Prescott, Clerk.
To the Overseers of the Town of Boston.
Boston, July 5th, 1774.
Sir: Your obliging letter directed to the Overseers of the Poor of this
town, together with a generous present from a number of the inhabitants
of the Town of Groton, for the relief of such inhabitants of this town
as may be sufferers by the Port Bill, is come to hand.
In behalf of the Committee of this Town, appointed for the reception of
such kind donations, I am now to return to you and the rest of our bene-
factors, our most sincere thanks.
The gentlemen may be assured their donations will be applied to the pur-
pose they intend. We are much obliged to you for the wise cautions given
in your letter, and we shall use our best endeavors that the inhabitants
of this Town may endure their sufferings with dignity, that the glorious
Cause for which they suffer may not be reproached. We trust that the non-
consumption agreement, which we hear is making progress in the country,
will put it out of the power of any of the merchants to take unreasonable
advantage of raising the prices of their goods. You will, however, remember,
that many heavy articles, such as
p.195 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
nails, etc., will be attended with considerable charge in transporting
them from Salem. As the bearer is in haste, I must conclude, with great
regard for your Committee of Correspondence and the inhabitants of the
Town of Groton.
Sir, your friend and fellow-countryman,
Signed by order of the Overseers of the Poor,
SAMUEL PARTRIDGE.
To the Committee of the Town of Groton, in Massachusetts.
COMMITTEE OF CORRESPONDENCE.
September 6, 1774.
The inhabitants of the Town of Littleton being
assembled at the Meeting-House in said Town; First
voted and chose Mr. Robert Harris Moderator of said
meeting.
2. Chose Captain Jonathan Reed, Mr. Robert Harris
and Mr. Aaron Jewett, a Committee of Correspondence
for Littleton.
3. Voted that the present Committee should go to
Groton, to meet the Committees of the several Towns
in the neighborhood on Friday, next, agreeable to
the desire of said Committees.
4. Voted, that the proceedings of this Meeting
be published in the publick news-papers.
A true copy of the Proceedings,
Attest: Oliver Hoar, Town-Clerk.
"The Boston-Gazette, and Country Journal," Monday,
September 19, 1774.
______________________
REVEREND SAMUEL DANA.
It is well known that the Reverend Samuel Dana,
minister of Groton from the year 1761 to 1775,
at the outbreak of the Revolution, was in sym-
pathy with the Crown. His political views made
him unpopular and caused his dismissal from the
parish. An account of the difficulties is given
in Samuel Butler's History (pp.179-181). The
following notice, by no means clearly expressed,
is found in "The New England Chronicle: or, the
Essex Gazette," June 8, 1775: -
p.196 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Groton, May 15th, 1775.
The inhabitants of Groton in Town-Meeting assembl-
ed, the Reverend Samuel Dana offered that to the
Town with regard to his political principles and
conduct, and that he ought to enjoy the privileges
of society in common with other members, and we
hope this, with the following by his subscribed,
will be fully satisfactory to the Publick. Signed:
Committee of Correspondence for Groton.
Oliver Prescott
James Prescott
Josiah Sartell
Isaac Farnsworth
Moses Child.
I, the Subscriber, being deeply affected with
the miseries brought on this Country, by a
horrid thirst for ill-got wealth and uncon-
stitutional power - and lamenting my unhappi-
ness, in being left to adopt principles in
politics different from the generality of my
countrymen; and thence to conduct in a manner
that has but too justly excited the jealously
and resentment of the true Sons of Liberty
against me, earnestly desirous, at the same time,
to give them all the satisfaction in my power;
do hereby sincerely ask forgiveness of all such
for whatever I have said or done, that had the
least tendency to the injury of my Country,
assuring them that it is my full purpose, in my
proper sphere, to unite with them, in all those
laudable and fit measures, that have been recom-
ended by the Continental and Provincial Congresses,
for the salvation of this Country, hoping my future
conversation and conduct will fully prove the up-
rightness of my present professions.
Samuel Dana.
Groton, May 22, 1775.
"The Essex Gazette" newspaper, at the beginning
of the Revolution, was removed from Salem, Mass.,
to Cambridge, Mass., where it was published under
the name of "The New England Chronicle: or, the
Essex Gazette." It was printed in Stoughton Hall,
Harvard College and the first number under its
new title, is dated May 12, 1775.
p.197 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE
REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Revolutionary Items.
The following paper is found in Peter Force's
"American Archives" (fourth series, II. 1109): -
To the Honourable Gentlemen of the Provincial
Congress of New Hampshire:
Jason Russell & John Tarbell
That whereas, Jason Russell and John Tarbell,
both of Mason, N.H., in said province, did, in a
felonious manner, on or about the 20th of May,
last, retire to a pasture in said Town, belonging
to Samuel Dana of Groton, Mass., and took from
thence a three-year heifer, and killed it and
converted it to their own use; whereupon, early
notice being given to the Committee for said town,
they met, and required of the offenders, full sat-
isfaction therefor, but each of them peremptorily
refusing to comply therewith: The advice of Comm-
ittees from the neighboring Towns being called in,
viz: New Ipswich and Temple, and the criminals be-
ing cited to appear before said Committees, not
only neglected to make their appearance before us,
but, as we learn, have fled to the Army; and find-
ing ourselves unable to settle the unhappy diffi-
culty by reason of their escape, came into the
following resolution, viz:
Resolved, to refer the matter to your judicious
consideration, begging that you will, in your
wisdom, take cognizance of the offence, and deal
with them in this and in such like cases, for the
future. (Signed)
Ephraim Adams, Chairman.
David Blodgett, Scribe.
Mason, June 26, 1775.
It is probable that Mr. Dana's tory proclivities
at this period, had some connection with the
affair.
John Tarbell, who is mentioned in the preamble,
was of Groton descent.
___________________
Reverend Samuel Webster's Sermon.
The following is the title of a sermon, mentioned
on page 4, which was preached before the Groton
minute-men, on Febuary 21, 1775:
p.198 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE
REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Rabshakeh's Proposals. Considered in a Sermon,
delivered at Groton, February 21, 1775. At the
desire of the the Officers of the Companies of
Minute-Men in that town. By Samuel Webster, A.M.,
Pastor of the Church at Temple, in New Hampshire.
Boston: Printed and Sold by Edes and Gill, in
Queen Street. 1775. 8vo. pp.30.
The sermon is singularly meagre in details, and
made up largely of theological opinion, perhaps
as valuable now as then, but not so highly prized.
The author says that a large majority of the town,
agreeably to the plan of the Provincial Council,
had promised to hold themselves in prompt readi-
ness to act in the service of their country.
_________________
PAROLE AND COUNTERSIGN.
COLONEL WILLIAM PRESCOTT.
According to the proceedings of the Massachusetts
Historical Society (XV.101) for October, 1876, the
parole at the camp in Cambridge, Mass., on the
night of May 21, 1775, was "Groton," and the coun-
tersign "Pepperell." These words, doubtless, were
suggestted by Colonel William Prescott, a native
of Groton, Mass., and a resident of Pepperell, who
was then commanding a regiment in the Provincial
Army.
THE BATTLE OF BUNKER HILL.
Groton Men Killed in the Fight.
One commissioned officer and ten enlisted men, resi-
dents of Groton, Mass., were either killed or mort-
ally wounded at the Battle of Bunker Hill.
The Roll of Honor comprises the names of Lieut.
Amaziah Fassett, who fell wounded, and died a
prisoner in Boston, a few days later, on July 5th;
Sgt. Benjamin Prescott, the eldest son of the Hon.
James Prescott,
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR.
p.199
and the nephew of Colonel William Prescott, the
commander on the American side; and privates Abra-
ham Blood, Chambers Corey, James Dodge, Peter Fisk,
Stephen Foster, Simon Hobart, Jonathan Jenkins,
Robert Parker and Benjamin Woods.
This loss was the largest suffered by any one
town in that battle, and shows the patriotic
character of the citizens at that period. These
soldiers were serving in five different companies
of Colonel William Prescott's regiment, and their
names now appear on the bronze tablets which have
been placed on Bunker Hill by the city of Boston,
in Memory of the brave men who fell in that histor-
ic engagement.
It is highly probable that Amos Fisk, kill in that
battle, was another Groton soldier who fell on that
day. See p.45 for a statement of the facts.
COLONEL WILLIAM PRESCOTT.
Colonel William Prescott, the commander of the
American forces, and at least three of the Pepper-
ell soldiers who lost their lives in the fight,
were natives of Groton, Massachusetts.
AN ERROR ON THE BUNKER HILL
TABLETS.
In connection with the names that are given on
the Bunker Hill Tablets, set up by the City, there
is a singular error worth noting. David Kemp, of
Groton, is named as one of the men who was killed
on the seventeenth, though fortunately, he was
only captured in that engagement, and afterward
was carried to Halifax. By mistake he was report-
ed as dying while a prisoner in Boston, and for a
long time his family mourned him as dead. It is
not recorded when they first heard of his safety,
but probably it was many monnths after the battle.
In the "Boston Gazette," and the "Country Journal"
(Watertown), July 29, 1776, it is said:
"Last Tuesday Evening, came to the town, from Hali-
fax, Lieutenant Scott of Peterborough, in New
Hampshire government, who was wounded and taken
prisoner as the memorable Battle of Bunker Hill,
on the 17th of June, 1775, and has been a prisoner
ever since. He
p.200 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
informs, that he, with 13 others, broke Goal
(jail) about five weeks ago and betook themselves
to the woods, where they separated; that Captain
Martindale and his first and second lieutenants,
John Brown, rifleman and Leonard Briggs of Ware,
and himself, arrived at Truro, at the head of the
Cobbecut River, after a travel of three days, where
they procured a boat and got to the eastward; that
Richard Carpenter, formerly barber in this town,
Philip Johnson Beak, David Kemp of Groton and
Corporal Cruse of Virginia, and two others took
the road to Windsor where they were apprehended and
confined in irons; that Benjamin Willson of Biller-
ica, one of the Bunker Hill prisoners, died lately
(June 10, 1776) in goal (jail); and that he left
Master James Lovell, still confined, in high health,
and spirits.
From the foregoing newspaper account, it appears
that David Kemp did not die in Boston on Sept. 10,
1775, as is recorded on the Company Return (LVI.70)
among the Massachusetts Archives; and furthermore,
that he was alive nearly one year after the memor-
able engagement. The following petition, printed
in the Journal of the Massachusetts House of
Representatives, September 13, 1776, gives the
exact date of Kemp's escape as well as other inter-
esting facts:
A Petition of David Kemp, of Groton, Mass., setting
forth, that his son, David Kemp, Jr., a soldier
in Captain Parker's Company, in Colonel William
Prescott's regiment, was taken prisoner at the
Battle of Bunker Hill, the 17th of June, 1775, and
was carried to Halifax, where he remained until the
13th of June, last; that he was not made up in
said Parker's Roll, only to the 17th of June, there-
fore, praying that his wages to this time may be
allowed him. Read and committed to Captain Kimball,
Mr. Ingals and Mr. White (p.104.)
A GROTON MAN SHOT PITCAIRN.
In a note-book of the Rev. Jeremy Belknap, accord-
ing to an extract printed in the Proceedings (XIV.
93) of the Massachusetts Historical Society for
June, 1875, it is recorded:
p.201 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR.
BY Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
A negro man belonging to Groton, took aim at Major
Pitcairne, as he was rallying the dispersed British
Troops, and shot him through the head. He was
brought over to Boston and died as he was landing
on the ferry ways.
It has long been known that Pitcairn was killed by
a negro, but this is the first account which has
ever connected him with Groton.
THE FIRST MAN TO FIRE.
In the account of Chelmsford, prepared by Henry S.
Perham for Hurd's "History of Middlesex County"
(II. 249), is found the epitaph of Joseph Spauld-
ing, who died in that town on July 31, 1820. It
is stated that:
He was among the brave asserters & defenders of
the liberties of his Country, at Bunker Hill, where
he opened the battle by firing upon the enemy be-
fore orders were given: and, after enjoying for
many years, the blessings of civil and religious
liberty in common with others,
He, "sunk to rest
With all his Country's Honors blest."
FIRST MAN KILLED.
ASA POLLARD
OF BILLERICA, MASS.
Amos Foster, a private in Captain Walker's Company,
Colonel Bridge's regiment, writes, under date of
August 3, 1825, as follows:
I was close by Asa Pollard of Billerica, when he
was killed. He was the first man that was killed.
The ball struck the ground and hopped along before
it struck him.
Foster's letter is printed in "The New England Hist-
orical and Genealogical Register" (XII.121,122) for
April, 1858. Substantially the same statement appears
in the Genealogical Register of Hazen's "History of
Billerica" (p.113).
p.202 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS IN THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR BY DR. SAMUEL A. GREEN.
THE FIRST MAN WOUNDED
BATTLE OF BUNKER HILL.
In Holland's "History of Western Massachusetts"
(II.420), the author says:
At the battle of Bunker Hill, Aaron Barr of
Myrifield (now the town of Rowe), was the first
man brought into Cambridge, from the field. He
belonged to Captain Maxwell's Company. He was
struck by a cannon ball in the morning, had his
leg taken off, and he died the same day.
There has been a discrepancy of statement in
regard to the first man killed in the action, as
some persons claim the distinction for Pollard,
and others for Barr. The evidence appears to be
that Pollard was killed instantly, while Barr was
carried from the field and died some hours later
in Cambridge, Mass. The authority for the state-
ment that Barr was the first man killed, is the
following writing pasted on the Company Roll among
the Massachusetts Archives: "Aaron Barr, the first
man killed on Bunker Hill, June 16 (sic) 1775."
It appears to have been placed there many years
ago, but long after the date of the original
record. He was a member of Captain Maxwell's
Company, Colonel William Prescott's Regiment,
and not of Captain Nutting's Company, as stated
in the volume of "Bunker-Hill Memorial Tablets"
(p.80, note), published by the City of Boston.
THE LAST MAN TO LEAVE THE FIELD.
In Glazier's "History of Grdner," Massachusetts
(p.25), it is recorded that David Foster "was en-
gaged in the Revolutionary War nine months and was
the last man who fled from the enemy at the Battle
of Bunker Hill."
DIED - In Andover, Deacon Isaac Abbott, 91. He was
the last to leave the field, at the Battle of
Bunker Hill." "Boston Daily Advertiser," August
13, 1836.
I (Dr. Samuel A. Green) leave it for others to
settle the discrepancy between these two statements.
p.203 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE
REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
AN ANNIVERSARY OF THE FIGHT.
The following notice of a death is given in "The
Boston Recorder," July 22, 1847:
In Jamaica, Vermont, June 15, Mr. Eleazer Randall,
94, a native of New Braintree, Massachusetts. He
was in the battle of Bunker Hill, and was buried
June 17, 1847, at the same hour of the day in which
he was engaged in conflict.
_________________
REVEREND JOSEPH THAXTR OF EDGARTOWN.
Professor Franklin B. Dexter of Yale University,
writes me under date of November 18, 1896, that
he has temporarily, in his possession, a copy of
President Quincy's Memoir of Josiah Quincy, Jr.,
which contains an interesting note on a fly-leaf.
The book was presented to the Rev. Joseph Thaxter
(Harvard College, 1768), of Edgartown, by Abbott
Lawrence, on June 17, 1825, when the corner stone
of the Bunker Hill Monument was laid at Charles-
town. The note is in the handwriting of Mr. Thax-
ter, and reads as follows:
Captain Samuel Lawrence of Groton.
"This was given to me by the son of Captain
Samuel Lawrence of Groton, who belonged to Col.
William Prescott's Minute Regiment to which I be-
longed and to whom I preached a military sermon at
a regimental muster at Westford, Mass., the Fall
before the Concord fight. John Robinson of West-
ford was the Lieut. Colonel and led the people
with Major Buttericks, at Concord Bridge. Capt.
Lawrence was at his son's home in Boston. It gave
me pleasure to see him the 17th of June, at Breeds
Hill.
In the year 1774, Mr. Thaxter was preaching as a
candidate at Westford, and later received a call
to be settled as the minister of the town, which
he declined. He served as a Chaplain in the Army,
for a while, and in 1780, became the Pastor of the
Church at Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, where he
remained until his death on July 18, 1827.
p.204 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE
REVOLUTION.
PETITIONS AND ACCOUNTS.
The following Petitions and Accounts, relating
to Groton, Massachusetts soldiers at the Battle
of Bunker Hill, are found in the printed Journal
of the Massachusetts House of Representatives,
under their respective dates as noted:
Tuesday, October 17, 1775 (afternoon).
Petition of Oliver Prescott.
JAMES DODGE, WHO FELL AT THE BATTLE
OF BUNKER HILL.
A Petition of Oliver Prescott, praying compensa-
tion for a firelock and accoutrements supplied by
him, to James Dodge, who fell in the Battle at
Bunker's Hill.
Read and committed to Mr. Wood, Colonel Grout &
Mr. Hayward. (p.172).
ASA LAWRENCE'S PETITION.
Asa Lawrence's Petition, praying for allowance for
cash expended in procuring tools for gun smiths, on
desire of the Committee of Safety, together with his
account. Read and committed to the Committee on
Accounts. (p.172)
Thursday, October 19, 1775.
The Committee on the Petition of Oliver Prescott,
praying compensation for a firelock and accoutre-
ments supplied by him to James Prescott (Dodge),
as is set forth in the Petition; made Report, which
was ordered to lie for the present.
(page 174.)
Thursday, December 7, 1775.
JONATHAN TARBALL.
An account of Jonathan Tarbell, for time of his
servant, gun, etc., and clothing, lost in the battle
of the 19th of April last; committed to the Committ-
ee appointed to consider the losses sustained in the
Battle of the 17th of June, last. (p.23.)
Thursday, March 21, 1776 (afternoon).
DAVID KEMP.
An account of David Kemp, for Loss of clothes and
other articles, sustained by his deceased son, David
Kemp, taken in the engagement on Bunkers' Hill on
the seventeenth of June, last, and since dead.
(see p. 200)
GROTON MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR
By Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
p.205 Read and thereupon resolved, that there be paid out
of the Public Treasury of this Colony, to James
Prescott, Esquire, for the use of David Kemp, the
father of the deceased, the sum of five pounds, in
full. Sent up for Concurrence.
BENJAMIN PRESCOTT KILLED
IN BATTLE.
An Account of James Prescott, Esq.; for loss of
clothes and other articles sustained by his son,
Benjamin Prescott, killed in the Battle of Charles-
town, on the seventeenth of June, 1775, with a
Report thereon.
Read and thereupon Resolved, that there be paid
out of the public Treasury of this Colony to James
Prescott, Esq., the sum of four Pounds eighteen
Shillings and eight Pence, in full for the arti-
cles lost when his son Benjamin Prescott was kill-
ed in the Battle of the 17th of June, last.
Sent of for Concurrence.
(p.29)
BENJAMIN PRESCOTT.
Benjamin Prescott was the oldest child of the
Honorable James Prescott and Susanna (Lawrence)
Prescott, and was born on April 16, 1753. He was
a Minute-Man in Captain Asa Lawrence's company,
which marched to Cambridge, on April 19, 1775,
and he was a sergeant in Captain Moor's command,
at the Battle of Bunker Hill. In "The Prescott
Memorial (full book The Prescott Memorial, sent
on request to me - farns10th@aol.com - Janice
Farnsworth) - p.74 Prescott Memorial -by Dr.
William Prescott, it is said that Benjamin Pres-
cott was a lieutenant but this is an error. For a
short notice of him, see Richard Frothingham's
"History of the Siege of Boston" p.175, where
he is again spoken of as a Lieutenant.
___________________
THE POOR OF BOSTON.
During the siege of Boston, many of the inhabitants
retired to other places in Massachusetts; and cer-
tain families, unable to do likewise for want of
means, were assigned to particular towns and sent
at the public expense. The following extract from
the printed Journal of the House of Representatives,
November 3, 1775, seems to indicate that the Select-
men
p.206 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
of Neweburyport had asked to be relieved from the
care of certain families sent to that town; and at
the same time it gives the names of some who came
to this neighborhood:
The Committee on the Memorial of the Selectmen of
Newbury Port, reported.
Read and accepted and Resolved that the poor of
the town of Boston, that are now in the Town of
Newburyport, be destined in the manner following,
vis.
To the Town of Groton, Captain Phillip Bass, wife
and three children; the Widow Bounds and two child-
ren and Peter Mers and wife.
Andover. Christopher Brazen and wife, and five
children; Christopher Brazen, Junr., Wife and one
child; James Henckes, wife and two children. Lewis
Follings and wife.
Leominster. Mrs. Joanna Trovoy & three children;
Ambross Colby, wife and three children; Mrs.
Patterson and two children; Mrs. Mary Calf &
daughter-in-law and two children.
Lunenburg. Walter Piper, wife and five children;
Walter Piper, Jr., wife and mother and seven child-
ren. Joseph Grant and wife and mother and four
children.
Littleton. The widow Elizabeth Bascom; the widow,
Johnson and the widow, Mary York.
And the Selectmen of the Towns of Groton, Andover,
Leominster, Lunenburg and Littleton, are directed
to apply to the Selectmen of Newburyport for their
proportion of said poor, and by receiving a Certifi-
cate that they are of the Poor of Boston, and their
names, age and the time when they came out of Boston;
and they are to transport them to their several towns,
according to their destination, and to be paid out
of the public Treasury for the cost in procuring
and transporting said poor of Boston to their re-
spective towns; and the Secretary is hereby direct-
ed to furnish each of the towns of Groton, Andover,
Leominster, Lunenburg and Littleton, with an attest-
ed copy of this Resolve as soon as may be.
Sent of for concurrence.
(pp.227,228.)
p.207 REVOLUTIONARY ITEMS.
GROTON, MASS., DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
BY DR. SAMUEL ABBOTT GREEN.
COAT ROLLS.
The following copies are made from the original
papers among the Massachusetts Archives, found in
the two volumes marked "Coat Rolls" on the back.
Under an early Resolve passed by the Provincial
Congress, each soldier of the Province was en-
titled to a coat and, so far as was practicable,
one made in his own town. This item proved to be
of some importance towards the soldier's pay, and
was duly claimed by every man, or by his heirs, if
he himself did not live to draw the coat. The various
orders for these coats, still on file at the State
House, contain many historical facts and other minor
details not recorded elsewhere. The orders, herein-
after given, are found unnumbered in Volume LVII.
of the "Revolutionary Papers," File 7. Fortunately
the men could fight better than they spelled; and
their personal prowess outweighed any deficiency
in their early education.
CAMP ATT CAMBRIDGE NOVEMBER 17, 1775.
TO THE COMMITTEE OF CLOTHING IN WATERTOWN.
We the Subscribers belonging to Groton, in Capt.
Moor's Company in Col. William Prescott's Regiment
desire you to deliver to Captain Joseph Moors for
each of us, a coat manuafactured at Groton, agree-
able to the Order of the last Congress.
Samuel Farnsworth Joseh Moors, Jr.
Abel Amsden Benjamin Sawtell
Phineas Hemenway
Leonard Taylor
Joseph Taylor
Ephram Warren
Oliver Tarbell
Zac Longley
13 Groton coats @ 23/9 £0-16-3 Joseph Taylor, Jun'r
7 Rehoboth coats 4-1 Phineas Kemp
____________ David Archibel
1- 0-4 Timothy Woods
Thomas Collins.
p.208 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTION.
Peter Davis
Jonas Davis
Joseph Gowing
John Clough
20 Ebenezer Purkins
Received the contents of the within Order as by my
receipt of this date on Book may appear.
November 17th, 1775. Joseph Moors, Capt.
Indorsed. 20 coats delivered to Capt. Moors in Col.
William Prescott's Regiment - November 17th, 1775.
______________________
Sewell's Point. Nov. 16, 1775.
To the Committee of Clothing in Watertown.
Wee the subscribers belonging to Groton in Capt.
Henry Farwell's Company in Col. William Prescott's
Regiment, desire you to deliver Lieut. Benjamin
Ball, for each one of us, a coat manufactured at
Groton. Agreeable to the orders of the last Congress.
Henry McNeill Joseph Stevens, Sgt.
Jonathan Jenkins Josiah Warren
Zaccheus Farwell
Moses Chase
Nov 16, 1775 Rec'd 25 coats within
named for which I have given a
receipt on Book of this date. Asa White
David Jenkins
Uriel Whitney
Benjamin Ball, Lieut. Joseph Frost
Ebenezer Kemp
Ephraim Robbins
William Derumple
James Davis
Jonas Brooks
Joseph Page
Joel Jenkins
Peletiah Russell
Jonathan Sawtell
Nathaniel Sawtell
Daniel X Foster
his mark
Sewall's Point is in that part of
of Brookline, now known as Longwood.
p.209 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
BY DR. SAMUEL A. GREEN
Samuel Lawrence
Francis White
Obadiah Jenkins
25 Phinehas Hubbard
(Indorsed) Lieut. Balls received for 25 coates, Capt.
Farwell's Company, Colonel William Prescott's Regiment
November 16, 1775.
Read of the barer Timothy Moors - three coats, one for
Zach Longley, one for Ephraim Russell & one for Timothy
Moors of Groton and all of my company in Colonel William
Prescott's Regiment.
Cambridge, October ye 26, 1775 Henry Farwell, Capt.
test: Ephraim Brown Benjamin Ball, Lieut.
Josiah Richardson
Indorsed. 3 coats delivered by the Selectmen of Groton
to three men in the Army in Capt. Farwell's Company, in
Colonel Prescott's Regiment. October 28th.
_____________
Cambridge. Octobe 30, ye 1775.
To the committee of suppliables, to deliver to Asa
Lawrence, Captain, in Colonel William Prescott's
Regiment - each a fustian Coat to which our names are
under subscribed:
Elisha Hoit John Kilburn
Ezekiel Nutting David Prescott
Jonathan Woods Jonathan Capron
Jacob Williams Ruben Woods
Jeremiah Hobart Asa Porter
Nathaniel Shattuck Ephraim Nutting
Louy Parker Abel Nutting
Eleazer Parker Benjamin Blood
Lemuel Parker John Ames
Lemuel Parker, Jr. Simeon Williams
Daniel Shed Eleazer Green
Joel Porter Nathan Cory
Solomon Gilson Jonathan Colburn
14
p.210 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTION
Robert Bizel
Josiah Lakin
Jonas Tarbell
Oliver Patch
Lemuell Blood
David Hason
John Shiple
Killed & Taken
Jeams Dogg (Dodge)
Stephen Foster
Abraham Blood
Benjamin Wood
Simon Hobart
Robert Parker.
Indorsed. 35 coats delivered to Capt. Lawrance'
men, in Col. William Prescott's Regiment.
To the Honorable Committee of Clothing - plese
to pay unto the barer hereof, Elias Dickey, what
is allowed me for my Coat and you will olbige your
humble servant. Benjamin Peirce.
Groton, April the 8th, 1777.
(Indorsed) Paid one soldier in Capt. Lawrance's
company in Colonel Prescott's Regiment, April
9th, 1777.
To the Honorable Committee of Clothing for the
army att Cambridge for the year 1775. This may
certify that Benjamin Pierce in my company and
in Colonel Prescott's Regiment - has not received
a coat, nor the pay for one, according to a Re-
solve of Congress. Asa Lawrence, Captain.
April the 7th ye 1777.
___________________
These may certify that Oliver Parker of the
late Capt. Ephraim Corey's Company never received
his coat nor the value of it - he belonging to
Colonel William Prescott's Regiment.
Nathaniel Sartell, Lieut.
March 14th, 1776,
Indorsed. Cash paid for one coat to a soldier in
the late Capt. Cory's Company in Col. William
Prescott's Regiment. March 14th, 1776.
p.211 GROTON, MASS., DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR,
REVOLUTIONARY ITEMS.
Groton. February 10th, 1776.
This may certify that Amos Farnsworth, belonging
(my ancestor - Janice Farnsworth)
in Colonel William Prescott's Regiment
My ancestor as well through his
aunt, Mary Prescott.)
last year has never as yet received a coat or
anything in consequence theref which was promised
to the soldiers of the Colony of the Massachusetts
Bay by reason of his being wounded and sick and
so, absent from camp. Henry Farwell, Captain.
Indorsed. Paid one soldier in Capt. Farwell's
company, in Col. William Prescott's Regiment,
February 16, 1776.
______
According to the following certificate,
Chambers Corey was killed at the Battle of
Bunker Hill. He belonged to Groton, and his
name duly appears in the list on the Bunker
Hill tablets.
CAPTAIN OLIVER PARKER.
Oliver Parker, who signs the certificate, was
a Captain of the company at the time of the
battle. Captain Oliver Parker was the same
person as the Lieutenant Oliver Parker in
Captain Lawrence's Company of Minute-men,
who marched from Groton to Cambridge on the
memorable April 19th. See Return on page
49, where is found an earlier record of Corey's
death. The date of the paper is there incorr-
ectly printed as October 1st, instead of
October 7th.
p.212 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR.
CHAMBERS CORY, SON OF SAMUEL.
CAPTAIN OLIVER PARKER.
this may sartefie whome it may consarn, that
Chambers Cory, son to Samuel Cory, never re-
ceived his Cote (coat) nor the money for it,
for it, for he was in my Company and was killed
at Bunker Hill. Gentlemen - I never had any
knowledge of anybody drawing any coat or money
for ye deceased Chambers. Per me, Oliver Parker,
Captain. (Indorsed) Captain Parker's Company,
in Colonel William Prescott's Regiment, June
20th, 1776.
______________
See p.200 for a notice of David Kemp, mentioned
below.
Groton. December 6, 1775.
Sir: Please to pay James Prescott, Esq. all the
wages due to my son, David Kemp & all the clothing
due to him etc., and his receipt shall discharge
you in full and you will oblige your humble
servant. To Captain Parker, in Col. William
Prescott's regiment. David Kemp.
(Indorsed) - Cash paid in lieu of a coat, to a
soldier in Captain Parker's Company in Colonel
William Prescott's Regiment. January 12, 1776.
_________________
To the Committee of clothing at Watertown.
Please to pay Captain Abijah Wyman 25 shillings
for a coat granted me by the honorable Congress
of this Province - I being a soldier in Capt.
Wyman's Company & Colonel William Prescott's
Regiment and belong to the town of Groton.
Daniel Gilson.
Cambridge. November 10, 1775.
The within named person belongs to my Company
and please to deliver the money to Lieut. Brow.
Abijah Wyman, Captain. December 28, 1775.
Indorsed. Daniel Gilson order to the Committee
of Supplies. Paid one soldier in Capt. Wyman's
Company, in Prescott's Regiment. December 29,
1775. 1 - 5 - 0.
__________________________
ABRAHAM IRELAND.
To Captain Joseph Moors.
Please to deliver the barer, Abraham Ireland,
my coat and this shall be your discharge from
me for the same. November 9, 1775. Abraham
Ireland, Jr. of Lunenburg.
We do hereby certify that the above named
Abraham Ireland, Jr. is a soldier in our
Company. Joseph Moors, Captain
Isaac Dodge, Lieutenant.
p.213 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR.
Winter Hill. November ye 16, 1775.
Received of George Kimball, the bearer, the
coat within mentioned and I desire you would
give him an order for the same.
To Captain Joseph Moors. Abraham Ireland.
Watertown. Nov. ye 16th, 1775.
Received of Captain Joseph Moors, twenty five
shillings for the above mentioned coat.
GEORGE KIMBALL.
CAPTAIN COREY'S COMPANY
There were so many Groton men in Captain Corey's
company that I give the Coat Roll in full. See
p.49 for a list of the Groton members. Evidently
from their names, several of the company were
negroes.
CAMP AT CAMBRIDGE. Oct. 31, 1775.
To the Committee of Clothing at Watertown, we the
subscribers whose names are here under written,
belonging to a company commanded by Ephraim Corey
in Colonel William Prescott's Regiment - desire
you to deliver a coat for each of us to Lieut.
Ephraim Corey, agreeable to the orders of the
late Congress.
Silas Corey
John Parker
Joseph Skinner
Cornelius Teigh
Moses Grimes
John Whitney
Ephraim Wheeler
Joseph Gorson
John Dwinell
Benjamin Bennet
Oliver Lakin
Michael Barney
David Porter
Smith Colburn
Joseph McFarling
Caeser Dickerson
Samson Coburn
Darius Hudson
Abijah Lewis
Cuff Hayes
Philio Corey
Cato Tufts
Prince Hull
Joseph Verriel
Pomp Fisk
Asa Underwood
Titus Colburn
Abial Parker
Richard Giles
Ceaser Weatherbee
Robert Parker
Abel Parker.
p.214 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR.
Chester Parker
Mathew Bright
Benjamin Gould
John Bodge
Silas Taylor
Robert Tyng
Joseph Adams
Abner Whitney
Benjamin Parker
James Weir 42 Coats.
Received the contents of the within Order -
Ephraim Corey, Captain.
Indorsed. 42 coats delivered to 42 of Captain
Corey's men in Colonel William Prescott's regi-
ment. - Massachusetts Archives - Revolutionary
Papers. LVII. File 7.
MAJOR SAMUEL LAWRENCE.
With sketch of Colonel Timothy Bigelow.
The following article on Major Samuel Lawrence,
written by the late Miss Emily Seaver of Rutland,
Vermont, a great granddaughter, was printed in
"The American Monthly Magazine" (V.107-110) for
August, 1894, where it appears in connectiion with
a similar sketch of Colonel Timothy Bigelow, of
Worcester, under the heading of "Two Revolutionary
Soldiers." It is a just tribute to the memory of an
old soldier, and gives an interesting account of
certain events in his life. He ended his days at
Groton, Massachusetts on November 8, 1827, sur-
rounded by a large family of children, whom he
lived to see grow and prosper.
SAMUEL LAWRENCE.
The following is a brief account of two soldiers
of the Revolution, written not because they were
distinguished or great, but just because they were
examples of the spirit and the tone of the common
people, for the time has passed away forever when
History con-
p.215 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR.
cerned herself only with the heroic deeds of Kings
and Knights and Lords, and we realize that we can
best understand any great struggle by the record of
the popular sentiment: by the sacrifices the common
people were willing to make for it.
"THEY GAVE ALL THEY HAD TO GIVE."
Of the two portraits in this sketch, one is that of
a farmer, a true son of the soil, the other a mech-
anic in what was then the first town of importance
in Massachusetts. Unlike in all other circumstances,
yet animated by the same spirit of patriotism, with
"unfailing loyalty, they gave all they had to give
to the cause of their country's independence."
SAMUEL LAWRENCE.
JOHN LAWRENCE FIRST OF WATERTOWN, MASS.
Samuel Lawrence was the son of Captain Amos Law-
rence and was descended from John Lawrence who came
over from England about 1630. John Lawrence settled
originally at Watertown, near Boston, but afterwards
removed to Groton, about thirty miles inland, and
he was one of the original proprietors.
INSERT.
Subject: John Lawrence
Source: Genealogies of the Families and Descendants of the Early Settlers of
Watertown, Massachusetts, Includes Waltham and Weston - by Henry Bond, M.D.,
Boston, 1860.
p.819
John Lawrence settled in Watertown probably in 1635, as his eldest child was
born there, March 14, 1635/6. His name is on the earliest list of proprietors
extant, and he was admitted freeman April 17, 1637. The date of his arrival
in America has not
been ascertained, nor is it known whether he was married before or after his
arrival.
Nothing has yet been ascertained from American records or archives, with
respect to his parentage or ancestry. It has been supposed that he was the
John Lawrence of great St. Albans, Hertfordshire, who embarked in the Planter
for New England in 1635, then aged 17 years.
This is evidently a mistake, as the passenger in the Planter was only 19 years
old when John Lawrence of Watertown was admitted freeman.
By his first wife, Elizabeth, he had 12 children, all born between his
settlement in Watertown, and his removal to Groton, whither he moved in the
autumn of 1662. His wife Elizabeth died there the next summer, August 29, 1663
and he married (2) Nov 2, 1664, Susanna Batchelder, daughter of William Batchelder
of Charlestown. He died July 11, 1667, and his widow Susanna died July 8, 1668.
His Will dated April 24, proved October 1, 1667, appoints his wife and sons
Nathaniel and Joseph, executors; mentions sons Enoch, Samuel, Isaac, Jonathan,
and Zechariah; of the three at home. Elizabeth "to live with Mr. Ensigne
Buss of Concord, till of age; and the other two, Enoch and Zechariah, be trust
to Samuel Willard and William Lakin, till of age." To his daughter, Mary, he
gave only half a portion with
the rest, "to teach her a remembrance of her disobedience and unfaithfulness to
me in my distress." [She married two days before the decease of her mother.]
Inventory, 278 pounds, no shillings & 4 pence. House and 10 acres of land, from
the street to the hill, taking an equal breadth apprized at 60 pounds. The Will
of his widow, Susanna, dated at Charlestown, July, proved Dec 16, 1668, mentions
her two daughters, Abigail and Susanna; her father and mother Batchelder; two sisters,
Rachel Atwood and Abigail Asting; her father Batchelder, and brother Atwood, of Malden,
executors.
The date of his removal to Groton is determined with sufficient precision by
the following facts. October 23, 1662, he sold land in Watertown to John Barnard.
Oct 27, 1662, he sold another lot to William Page, and on the same day another lot
to Joseph Underwood, and on the same day he sold to John Biscoe his homestead in
Watertown, a dwelling house etc., and about thirteen acres, "being the now mansion-
house of said John Lawrence," bounded on the east by the highway; north by Timothy
Hawkins and John Hammond; west by the meadow of said Biscoe;
south by land of John Flemming, deceased; widow Dix and her sonne; widow
Bartlett and said Biscoe.
In December 1662, "meet men were found amongst the inhabitants of
Groton, when Deacon James Parker, John Lawrence, William Martin, Richard Blood,
and James Fiske, were chosen selectmen." [Butler p.17] His early admission as
freeman, and this election to the first board of selectmen of Groton, show that
he was well known, and of good repute. According to the list of possessions in
Watertown in 1642, he then owned 7 lots, amounting to 154-1/2 acres. In legal
instruments he was designated a carpenter, although, from the amount
of his land, it might be presumed that he was chiefly devoted to agriculture.
The birth of his daughter Elizabeth is recorded in Boston, and as no births of
his family are recorded in Watertown from 1649 until 1659, perhaps he resided in
Boston several years, in the excercise of his trade.
p.820 - Bond's Watertown
Children:
1. John Lawrence b. March 14, 1635/6. He is not mentioned in his father's
Will, and it might therefore be concluded that he was deceased and without issue.
But it is to be observed, that he does not mention his son Peleg, nor his daughters
Abigail and Susanna, who are known to have been then living. We shall assume that
he was then living, until there is some evidence to disprove it, and that he had a
family.
2. Jonathan Lawrence buried April 6, 1648.
3. Nathaniel Lawrence b. Oct 15, 1639; an executor of his father's Will,
admitted freeman May 15, 1672.
4. Joseph Lawrence b. March died May, 1642.
5. Joseph Lawrence b. May 30, 1643; an executor of his father's Will; adm.
freeman May 15, 1672; m. 1670/1 (?) Rebecca ____. He was probably the
Joseph Lawrence who by wife Rebecca had daughter Rebecca, baptized in the 1st
Church of Boston, Feb 1, 1679/80 and who [Joseph] died Nov 14, 1685. It is
conjectured that the persons making the following Will were his wife and daughter.
The Will of Rebecca Lawrence (? of Boston), dated July 18, proved
Dec 12, 1726 gives her estate to her mother, Rebecca. The Will of widow
Rebecca Lawrence, dated Sept 27, proved Oct 11, 1731, bequeathed her estate to her
sisters, Margaret Davis, Ruth Royce, Maria Frost, Hanna Davis; nephew William Whitcomb,
and niece Huldah Archibel [Joseph Lawrence was witness to Broomfield's deed, Newbury,
1677.
6. Mary Lawrence, b. July 16, 1645; died 1686/7; married Aug 25, 1663 Inego
Potter of Charlestown. Children: John Potter. Richard Potter. Inego Potter baptized
in Charlestown April 24, 1683. Child Potter baptized July 9, 1682.
7. Peleg Lawrence b. Jan 10, 1646/7.
8. Enoch Lawrence b. Mar 5, 1648/9.
9. Samuel Lawrence, mentioned in his father's Will; probably the one who
married Sept 14,1682, Rebecca Luen of Charlestown. It is conjectured that he moved to
Connecticut.
10. Isaac Lawrence mentioned in his father's Will; probably the one who
married Sept 14, 1682, Abigail Bellows, born in Concord May 6, 1661, daughter of John
and Mary (Wood) Bellows [see Bellows Family of Walpole, N.H.] Isaac Lawrence and wife,
Abigail of Norwich, Conn., heirs of their uncle, Deacon Isaac Woods of Marlboro,
executed a deed - Feb. 26, 1718/19.
11. Elizabeth Lawrence b. in Boston, May 9, 1655.
JONATHAN LAWRENCE OF GROTON
12. Jonathan Lawrence, mentioned in his father's Will. He died 1725.
Perhaps he was the one who married in Cambridge Nov. 5, 1677, Rebecca Rutter.
If so, they d. s. p., for Jonathan of Groton, in his Will, does not mention wife
or children; but he gave to the town of Groton 100 pounds; to the Church of Christ in Groton, 40 pounds
to be laid out for the procuring some silver vessel or vessels for the church's use, as
they shallorder. Also, 20 pounds, the income to be annually paid or accounted for
to the settled or ordained minister.
13. Zechariah Lawrence born in Watertown March 9, 1658/9. He was probably
the Zechariah Lawrence of Boston, mariner, master of the "Success," against whom a suit
for wages was brought in 1691.
By his 2nd Wife, Susanna
14. Abigail Lawrence b. at Groton Jan 9, 1665/6.
15. Susanna Lawrence b. July 3, 1667, eight days before the death of her
father.
Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth
_____________________________________________________________
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
(continued)
p.215
Samuel Lawrence was born April 24, 1754. He was
consequently justy twenty-one at the commencement
of the War of Independence. The news of the Concord
fight reached Groton about ten o'clock on the morn-
of the eventful 19th of April. Samuel Lawrence was
a corporal in one of the Groton companies of Minute-
Men, and he was plowing his father's field in the
sweet April sunshine, when his brother, General Oliver
Prescott rode up shouting, "Samuel, the British are
coming; notify your men!"
Leaving the plow and mounting the general's horse,
Samuel Lawrence made a circuit of seven miles, call-
ing on all the men of his company, and returned to
his father's house in fifty minutes.
The company met at the church, where a brief reli-
gious service was held, arms and ammunition were dis-
tributed, and at one o'clock, the two Groton compan-
ies and the Pepperell company were on the road and
marched with all possible dispatch to Concord and
Lexington.
They were, however, too late to take part in the
battle, and so marched on to Cambridge, where were
the headquarters of the American Army, and that night,
which marked the commencement of the siege of Boston,
the Middlesex companies were on duty guarding the roads
which led to the town. And now the militia from far and
near flocked to Cambridge. Most of the farmers, hasten-
ing from the fields, brought nothing with them but
their guns and the clothes they had on. It was, there-
fore, a welcome sight when, as soon as he could coll-
ect a wagonload of provisions, Captain Amos Lawrence
drove to the lines with welcome stores for his son
and neighbors.
p.216 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE
REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
The Middlesex regiment was commissioned on May 26th
and he was Orderly to its commander, Colonel William
Prescott. The regiment took an active part in the
battle of Bunker Hill.
Ensign Lawrence was near Dr. Joseph Warren when he
was shot. Captain Farwell, of his company, was
severely wounded, and he himself received a wound in
the arm, while a bullet passed through his hat.
Had he been a little taller, it would have passed
through his brain. Ensign, afterwards Adjutant, and
then, Major Lawrence, remained in the Army for more
than three years, his regiment being in active ser-
vice all the time in Massachusetts and New York,
where he was on General Sullivan's staff; in New
London, and finally, at the battle of Rhode Island,
during which time he was at home for only two brief
furloughs. The first of these was in July, 1777, when,
the regiment being again in Cambridge, he asked and
obtained leave to go home for a few days for the ex-
press purpose of marrying Miss Susanna Parker, to
whom he had been engaged for more than two years. The
marriage took place at this time in compliance with
the advice of Major Lawrence's mother, who said that
if anything happened to Samuel, Susan had better be
his widow than his forlorn damsel - not a very cheer-
ful reason for a wedding; nor was the ceremony con-
cluded before the ringing of the bell gave the alarm
calling all the soldiers to arms. Hardly were the young
couple pronounced man and wife when they were separated
and within an hour the bridgegroom was on his march
again to Cambridge. The alarm proved to have been un-
necessary and his Colonel granted the young soldier
leave to return for a few days to provide for his bride's
comfortable sojourn in his father's house. He was allow-
ed another short furlough at the end of the year, the
regiment being in winter quarters in Rhode Island.
In September, 1778, immediately after the battle of
Rhode Island, the last battle fought on New England
soil, Major Lawrence resigned his commission and left
the army, returning home to his native town. Here he
lived for nearly fifty years, rearing a large family,
exercising a boundless hospitality (his daughters said
they might as well keep a tavern), interested in every
undertaking for the growth and welfare of the town,
and one of the trustees of the Groton (now the Lawrence)
Academy. It is a curious illustration of the eay in
which his military life was merged in that of a civil-
ian, that he was never called "Major," but always called
"Deacon" Lawrence, having been made a
p.217 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR.
deacon of the Church at the age of twenty-nine. The
brief romance of his early life to have quite faded
with the light of common day, and yet not wholly so,
for with his Groton comrades, he formed a club where
the veterans met to recall the stirring events of
their youth; and as to the close of a wintry day, we
have seen the eastern hills all glowing with crimson
splendor from the rays of the setting sun, so one
last gleam gilded the last days of the good man's
life. On the 17th of June, 1825, the corner stone
of Bunker Hill Monument was laid. General Lafayette,
the idol of the American Army, was presented by
special invitation, having crossed the ocean in a
vessel by the American Government to bring him, and
Daniel Webster pronounced the oration. Seated before
him were the veterans who had "toiled all night and
fought all day" fifty years before, and among them
Major, now Deacon Lawrence.
Into every human life comes, at some time, sooner or
later, one drop at least of perfect and unmixed happi-
ness and when Mr. Webster in the course of his oration
(one of the three finest that he eveer delivered),
addressed these old soldiers, "And you, venerable men,"
and they rose by a common impulse, to their feet, they
tasted that perfect draught.
It was too much bliss for the hero of this sketch,
for he received the next day, a paralytic stroke, from
which he never recovered, though he lived for more than
two more years.
TESTIMONY GIVEN BY GROTON MEN.
The following Certificate and Declaration are printed,
with other similar ones, in the "Boston Patriot and
Daily Chronicle," June 13, 1818, and were collected
at the instance of General Henry A. S. Dearborn, who
had written "An Account of the Battle of Bunker Hill."
Each paper is numbered with Arabic figures in brackets.
The Account was first published in "The Port-Folio"
(Philadelphia) for March, 1818, and was the occasion
of some criticism. For the purpose of answering the
strictures, the author printed these papers: -
p.218 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR.
(No.13.)
Certificate of the Rev. Daniel Chaplin, D.D., of
Groton, and the
Rev. John Bullard of Pepperell.
COLONEL WILLIAM PRESCOTT OF
PEPPERELL, MASS.
This may certify the public, that we whose names
we have given, were in the habit of intimacy with
Colonel William Prescott of Pepperell, a man of
strictest integrity, during the period after he
left the Revolutionary army, until his death; that
at sundry times in conversation with him about the
war, particularly about the battle of Bunker Hill,
he uniformly told us that Major General Warren
came to the fort on Breed's (Bunker) Hill, which
had been formed the night preceding, a little be-
fore the British made an attack on the works; that
he, Colonel William Prescott, said to General Warren,
"I am happy to see you, General," or using words to
the same effect, "for you will now take command and
I will obey your orders, and am relieved." General
Warren said to him, in reply, "I have not command
here, Colonel Prescott, I am a volunteer, I came to
learn actual service." Colonel Prescott said, "I
wish you would look at the works we have thrown up,
and give your opinion". Warren replied, "You are
better acquainted, Colonel Prescott, with military
matters, than I am." After which they immediately
parted and met not again. Colonel Prescott further
informed us, repeatedly, that when a retreat was
ordered and commenced, and he was descending the
hill, he met General Putnam, and said to him, "Why
did you not support me, General, with your men,
as I had reason to expect, according to agreement?"
Putnam answered, "I could not drive the dogs up."
We have good reason to believe further declarations
of some of our parishioners, men of respectability,
whose veracity cannot be doubted, who belonged to
Colonel Prescott's regiment and were present through
the whole service, that General Putnam was not on
Bunker Hill the night preceding, or on that day, ex-
cept that just before the attack was made, he might
have gone to the fort and ordered tools to be carried
off, that they might not fall into the hands of the
enemy in the event of his carrying the works, and
holding the ground, and that he and his men, with
Colonel Gerrish, remained on the side of Bunker Hill
towards the neck, during the whole action.
Signed: Groton, June 5, 1818 Daniel Chaplin,
John Bullard.
p.219 REVOLUTIONARY ITEMS.
No. 14.
DECLARATION OF DEACON SAMUEL LAWRENCE OF GROTON.
I, Samuel Lawrence of Groton, Esquire, testify
and say, that I was at the battle of Bunker Hill,
(so called) in Colonel William Prescott's regi-
ment; - that I marched with the Regiment to the
point on Breed's Hill, which was fixed for a re-
doubt; that I assisted in throwing up the breast-
work, and in forming a redoubt under Colonel
Prescott, who directed the whole of this operation.
The work was begun about nine o'clock in the even-
ing of June 16th, 1775. I was there the whole time,
and continued in the redoubt or in the little fort,
during the whole battle, until the enemy came in,
and a retreat was ordered. General Putnam was not
present either while the works were being erected,
nor during the battle. I could see distinctly, the
rail fence and the troops stationed there during
the battle, but General Putnam was not present as
I saw. After the retreat was ordered, the troops
retreated towards Bunker Hill, and continued over
and on the side of the hill. (I was on the side of
the hill) towards Charlestown neck.
GENERAL WARREN.
Just before the battle commenced, General Warren
came to the redoubt. He had on a blue coat and
white waistcoat and I think a cocked hat, but of
this I am not certain - Colonel Prescott advanced
to him and said, 'he was glad to see him, and hoped
he would take the command.' General Warren replied,
"No" that he came to see the action but not to
take command; that he was only a volunteer on that
day." Afterwards I saw General Warren shot; I saw
him when the ball struck him, and from that time,
until he died. I have read General Dearborn's
account of the battle, and think it correct, parti-
culary with regard to the occurrences at the gate-
way of the redoubt.
(Signed) Samuel Lawrence.
p.220 GROTON, MASS., DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
by Dr. Samuel A. Green.
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
County of Middlesex, June 5, 1818.
Personally appeared Samuel Lawrence, Esq., and
made oath, that the above declaration by him sub-
scribed, is just and true in all its parts,
according to the best of his knowledge and be-
lief. Before me.
(Signed) Samuel Dana, Justice of the
Peace throughout said Common-
wealth.
SURVIVORS OF THE BATTLE OF BUNKER HILL
IN 1825.
In the "Proceedings of the Bunker Hill Monument
Association at the Annual Meeting, June 17, 1895,"
are given the names of the survivors of the Battle,
who applied for the allowance provided by the State
for attendance at the laying of the corner-stone
of the Monument, June 17, 1825. The list gives
the rank of the soldier, and his age, as well as
the regiment in which he served and his residence
at the time.
Doolittle's Regiment.
Elnathan Sawtell, Pvt. 72 Groton p.45.
Bridge's Regiment.
Daniel Nutting, Pvt. 69 Westford p.46.
Jonathan Beard, Pvt. 75 Harvard,
Capt. B. Walker's Co. p.46.
Baldwin's Regiment.
Abraham Childs, Lieutenant 84 Groton p.46
Prescott's Regiment.
Obadiah Perry, Corporal 78 Westford,
Captain Parker's Company. p.47
Samuel Lawrence, Corporal 72 Groton p.47
John Pushee, Private 77 Westford p.47
Sampson Wood 65 Groton p.47
Moses Blood, Private 75 Pepperell p.47
Amos Farnsworth, Private 71 Groton p.47
p.221 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR.
REVOLUTIONARY ITEMS.
DR. NEHEMIAH ABBOT
_________________
AMOS LAWRENCE.
Amos Lawence, b. 1717, died 1785, married Abigail
Abbot, and one of their sons was Deacon Samuel
Lawrence; and hence later the surname wa brought
into family as a given name. Deacon Lawrence,
the executor of the estate advertised below, was
a nephew of Doctor Nehemiah Abbot, who died on
July 13, 1785, without children. He had a son
born on December 16, 1792, whom he named "Abbott";
and this son afterward became noted in various
ways.
BY THE ORDER OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOR
THE COUNTY OF MIDDLESEX, MASS.
Will be sold at public vendue, on Monday, the
10th day of January next, at two o'clock, p.m.,
at the House of Oliver Barron, Esq., Innholder
at Chelmsford, Mass., in said county.
Two-thirds of the real estate of Nehemiah Abbot,
late of Chelmsford, physician, deceased, lying
near the Meeting-House in said town, for the pay-
ment of all debts of said deceased, and charges
of sale. The conditions of sale may be seen at
the time and place aforesaid, or by applying in
Groton, to Samuel Lawrance, Executor.
Groton, December 6, 1790.
"Independent Chronicle: and the Universal Ad-
vertiser" (Boston), December 23, 1790.
____________________
LIEUTENANT AMAZIAH FASSETT.
AMAZIAH FASSETT, FELL MORTALLY WOUNDED
AT THE BATTLE OF BUNKER HILL.
In Richard Frothingham's "History of the Siege
of Boston" (fourth edition, p.347, note), there
is a reference to Amos Lawrence (b. 1786; d. 1852)
with an allusion to his father, Deacon Samuel Law-
rence, and to "his uncle," Lieut. Amaziah Fassett,
who fell mortally wounded at the Battle of Bunker
Hill and died, a prisoner in Boston, on July 5,
1775. While years ago, I (author) heard of a
relationship between the
p.222 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE
REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
THE LAWRENCE AND FASSETT FAMILIES.
Lawrence family and the Fassett family, I was
unable then to trace the connection; and this
circumstance had led me anew to investigate the
subject, which I have done with the following
result.
AMAZIAH FASSETT.
WILLIAM PARKER OF GROTON.
Amaziah Fassett was born in the year 1742 at
Westford, Mass., where he married Ede Richard-
son, who was born in 1745 - also at Westford.
She was a daughter of Abiel and Sarah (Boynton)
Richardson; and her mother, after the death of
Mr. Richardson, became the 2nd wife of William
Parker of Groton, and the mother of Susanna
Parker, who was Deacon Samuel Lawrence's wife.
In other words, Mrs. Fassett and Mrs. Lawrence
had the same mother but different fathers, and
consequently, were half-sisters. As Samuel and
Susanna were not married until July 22, 1777,
long after Amaziah's death, the kinship between
the two soldiers, at the time of the Battle, was
only of a prospective character.
FASSETT.
The first progenitor in this country of the
Groton family of Fassetts was Patrick Fassett
an inhabitant of Malden and Billerica and per-
haps was an Irishman.
ABIEL RICHARDSON OF GROTON.
According to "The Boston Weekly News-Letter,"
July 26, 1753, Abiel Richardson of Groton was
killed on July 18, of that year, by falling
from a rafter, while helping to raise the
frame of a meeting-house, in Dunstable, Mass.
And without doubt, this man was the father of
Mrs. Fassett.
The following Resolve, passed by the General
Assembly of the State of Massachusetts Bay, and
numbered XCVI in the official volume, refers to
Lieutenant Fassett, but the name is there mis-
spelled.
"Resolve on the Petition of Elisha Rockwood;
passed April 9, 1777. On the Petition of
Elisha Rockwood, Executor to the last Will and
Testament of Amaziah Tesset (Fassett), late of
Groton, deceased, resolved that the prayer of the
Petition be granted and that the Petitioner, Elisha
Rockwood, be and he is hereby impowered to make
sale of all the real estate mentioned in said
Petition, for the most it will fetch, and make
and execute a good Deed or Deeds to the purchaser
or purchasers, he observing the Rules and
p.223 GROTON, MASS. DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Directions of the Law relating to the sale of
Real Estates by Executors and Administrators,
and giving Bond to the Judge of Probate for the
County of Middlesex, that the proceeds arising
from such sale be applied for the Benefit of the
Heirs at Law of the said deceased, in the same
proportion as though the same had not been sold.
(page 23.)
________________
CAPTAIN SAMUEL TARBELL.
The following Resolves were passed by the Legis-
lature of Massachusetts, and are found in the
several editions of "Resolves of the General
Assembly of the State of Massachusetts Bay" of
their respective dates. The Petition, printed
on page 225, refers to the estate mentioned in
Resolve CLIII., and shows, furthermore, that
Capt. Samuel Tarbell was dead in the early part
of 1781. See Hill's "History of Mason, N.H."
p. 220, for an allusion to him. The decease of
his son, Captain Samuel Tarbell is announced in
the "Columbian Centinal" (Boston) March 12, 1796,
under Deaths, as follows:
"At Groton, the 4th instant, Captain Samuel Tar-
bell, late an officer in His Britannic Majesty's
American Dragoons.
This son was a refugee in New York during the
early part of 1781. See p. 225 for an allusion
to the fact.
INSERT.
CAPTAIN SAMUEL TARBELL, LOYALIST
Subject: Captain Samuel Tarbell
Source: Groton Historical Series by Dr. Samuel A. Green 1893
Vol III
p. 114
1796 the 4th inst. Captain Samuel Tarbell, late an officer in
his Britannic Majesty's American Dragoons - Died March 12,
1796.
p.109
The following Resolves were passed by the Legislature of
Massachusetts and are found in the several editions of
"Resolves of the General Assembly of the
State of Massachusetts Bay" of their respective dates.
The petition, printed in the 2nd volume of this Historical
Series (p.49)*, refers to the estate mentioned in Resolve
CLIII., and shows furthermore that Tarbell was dead in the
early part of 1781. (See Hill's History of Mason, New
Hampshire, p. 220), for an allusion to him. The decease of
his son, Captain Samuel Tarbell is announced under Deaths,
at the end of this Number
(p.114).
LXXXIX
Resolve impowering Perez Morton to bring forward a Prosecution
against Samuel Tarbell: passed April 23, 1778.
Whereas Samuel Tarbell of Groton, in the county of Middlesex,
husbandman, on the fourth day of December last, by his bond
became bound and obliged unto the Government and People of
said State, in the penal sum of two thousand pounds,
conditioned that the the said Samuel Tarbell shall well and
truly from time to time during the several Sessions of the
Superior Court of Judicature Etc., in any and all the counties
within this State, and during the several Sessions of the
Superior Court of Judicature, Etc within and for the several
counties within the State of New Hampshire Etc., personally
appear and attend at every of the said Courts and give
evidence in behalf of the Government and People of either
said State. But the said Tarbell has nevertheless absconded
and failed of appearing agreeable to the conditions posing
of the whole of his estate, and the public thereby be
defrauded.
And whereas the Hon. Robert Treat Paine, Esq, Attorney General
to this State, being necessarily absent attending the Superior
Court: Therefore Resolved that Perez Morton, attorney at law
be and hereby is impowered and directed to bring forward a
process upon the bond given by said Tarbell on the 4th
of December last, in behalf of the Government and People of
the State of Massachusetts Bay, and pursue the same to final
judgment and execution; and law or custom to the contrary
notwithstanding.
CLIII
p. 110
Resolve impowering James Prescott, Esq; to lease out the
Estate of Samuel Tarbell of Groton: pass'd April 10, 1780.
Whereas this State by their Attorney did in the year 1778
put in suit one certain obligation and recovered a judgement
of court against Samuel Tarbell, then of
Groton (since fled to the enemy) for the forfeiture of the
penalty in said obligation, and have since levied execution
upon some real estate to satisfy said judgement, which real
estate consisting of some land and buildings are now become
the property of the State and no person authorized to take
care of the same: Therefore
p.111
Resolved That James Prescott, Esq., be and he is hereby
appointed and fully impowered to lease out for one year,
ending the 1st day of April 1781, the afore-
mentioned lands and buildings for the most they will fetch
and to call upon any person or persons for any money justly
due to said State for the past improvement of said estate
(if any there be) and to pay in all such sums of money as he
may receive to the Treasurer of this State, taking duplicate
receipts therefor and lodge one of said receipts in the
Secretary's office.
*p.49 Groton Historical Series by Dr. Samuel A. Green 1890 Vol II (as
referred above)
The Lawrence Farm
To the Honourable the General Court of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts now Convened at Boston Humbly shews Amos
Lawrence of Groton that Captain Samuel Tarbell late of said
Groton Deceased - died seized of a Farm containing about one
hundred acres of Land that after his Death the same was divid
ed into nine shares two whereof has been sett off to his son
Samuel Tarbell now a Refugee in New York that the same
two shares have been since taken in execution for a Debt Due
to the Government,and your Petitioner having purchased the
other shares, it hath become necessary in order to make his
making a proper improvement of the same that he should have
the two shares aforesaid wherefore he Humbly prays your
Honours to take the matter under Consideration which he gave
for the other shares was sixty pounds silver
money for each and he humbly hopes that your Honours would not
demand more of him than the other proprietors he would further
observe that the buildings are not fit to
Live in & no part can be repaired without the whole that
the Fences are decaying and the Land Continually growing the
worse and these together with the Rates
constantly arising will render the Interest but of very Little
Value in a year or two whereof he hopes for the Interest of
the Government as well as for his own inconvenience that he
may be allowed to purchase and he will pray
etc.
February 16th 1781 Signed Amos Lawrance
This may Certify that the subscribers with some of the other
heirs of Captain Samuel Tarbell Deceased sold their shares in
said Tarbells Farm in Groton for sixty pounds
a share to Captain Amos Lawrence February 16, 1781. Signed
Henry Farwell & Samuel Reed.
Indorsed - Amos Lawrence's Petition & Report Captain Mitchel
Capt Waterman and Mr. Lewis
Massachusetts Archives CCXXXI 452
p.50
Commonwealth of Massachusetts In the House of Representatives
March 3, 1781
On the Petition of Amos Lawrence of Groton in the County of
Middlesex, praying he may be allowed to purchase two ninth
parts of the Farm in the said Town of Groton which Captain
Samuel Tarbell deceased died seized of, which Two ninths was
set off to his son Samuel Tarbell & has since been taken by
Execution for a debt due to this Government.
Resolved that the Committee who are appointed to sell Confis-
cated Estates in the County of Middlesex be & hereby are
Authorized & impowered to sell at publick or
private sale as they shall think most Beneficial
for this Commonwealth the above
mentioned Two ninths of the Farm which the above
said Capt Samuel Tarbell Deceased died seized of, & was
set of to his son Samuel Tarbell & make &
Execute a good & legal deed or deeds of the same & they
are hereby directed to pay the net proceeds arising by said
sale or sales into the Treasury of this Commonwealth
taking duplicate Receipts therefor one of which to be lodged in the
Secretary's office.
Sent up for concurrence In Senate March 3d 1781 Caleb Davis,
Speaker Read & Concurred Jer: Powell, President Approved
John Hancock Indorsed - Rec'd pge 320 Resolve on the Petition
of Amos Lawrence empowering the Agents appointed to sell
confiscated Estates in the County of Middlesex to
sell the Farm mentioned March 3d 1781. - Mass. Archives
CCXXXI 451
Author's Note: At this time the Hon. James Prescott, of
Groton, was one of a Committee of three appointed for
Middlesex County to sell forfeited estates.
Amos Lawrence, the petitioner was the father of Deacon
Samuel Lawrence: he died on June 20, 1785, when his son
inherited the farm.
Dr. Green did not indicate the lineage of the Loyalist
mentioned aboved but probably was of family below. And
signatures of Henry Farwell and Samuel Reed on above
documents....both married siblings of Capt Samuel Tarbell,
Jr. the loyalist whofled to New York, of the British
dragoons.
p.2l3 Samuel Tarbell b. 1697 son of Thomas & Elizabeth
(Blood) Tarbell of
Groton
married 1725 Lydia Farnsworth of Groton. He died May 23, 1776, and
his
grave is at the Old Burying Ground, Groton.
Samuel Tarball and wife, Lydia Farnsworth at Groton, MA
had these children:
l. Lydia Tarball b. l727, m. l749 Capt. Henry Farwell of Groton,
MA b. l724 d. l804, son of William Farwell and Elizabeth Farwell
When Lydia died 1760, Henry m. (2) l76l, Sarah Taylor of Westford MA
His children by Lydia Tarball were:
l. Anna Farwell b. l750 d. l754
2. Samuel Farwell b. l752 d. in infancy.
3. William Farwell b. l754
By his 2nd wife, Sarah Taylor he had these children:
4. Lydia Farwell b. l762 d. l763
5. Sarah Farwell b. l763 m. James Brazier of Charlestown
6. Lydia Farwell 2d b. l765 m. l788 John White
7. Jonathan Farwell b. l767 m. l80l Sybil Sawtell
dau. of Richard Sawtell and Elizabeth Bennett
Groton, Massachusetts During The Revolutionary War.
by Dr. Samuel Abbot Green.
LXXXIX.
Resolve impowering Perez Morton to bring forward a
Prosecution agains Samuel Tarbell; passed April 23,
1778.
Whereas Samuel Tarbell of Groton, in the county of
Middlesex, husbandman, on the 4th day of December last,
by his Bond, became bound and obliged into the Govern-
ment and People of said State, in the penal sum of two
thousand pounds, conditioned that the said Samuel Tar-
bell, shall well and truly from time to time during the
several sessions of the Superior Court of Judicature etc.
in any and all the counties within this State, and dur-
ing the several Sessions of the Suerior Court, etc.,
within and for the several counties within the State of
New Hampshire, etc. personally appear
p.224 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE
REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
and attend at every of the said Courts, and give evid-
ence in behalf of the Government and People of either
of said States. But the said Tarbell has nevertheless
absconded and failed of appearing agreeable to the
conditions mentioned in the Bond aforesaid; and there
is great danger of his disposing of the whole of his
estate, and the public thereby be defrauded. And where-
as the Honorable Robert Treat Paine, Esq; Attorney
General to this State, being necessarily absent attend-
ing the Superior Court: Therefore:
Resolved, that Perez Morton, attorney at law, be, and
hereby is impowered and directed to bring forward a
process upon the bond given by said Tarbell on the 4th
of December, last, in behalf of the Government and
People of the State of Massachusetts Bay, and pursue
the same to final judgment and execution; and law or
custom to the contrary not withstanding. (p.25)
CLIII.
Resolve impowering James Prescott, Esq., to lease out
the estate of Samuel Tarbell of Groton; passed April 10,
1780.
Whereas this State by their Attorney did in the year
1778, put in suit one certain obligation and recovered
a judgment of Court against Samuel Tarbell, then of
Groton, (since fled to the enemy) for the forfeiture
of the penalty mentioned in said obligation, and have
since levied execution upon some real estate to satis-
fy said judgment, which real estate consisting of some
land and buidings are now become the property of this
State, and no person authorized to take care of the
same: Therefore,
Resolved, that James Prescott, Esq; be and he is hereby
appointed and fully impowered to lease out for one year,
ending the 1st day of April, 1781, the aforementioned
lands and buildings for the most they will fetch, and
to call upon any person or persons for any money justly
due to said State for the past improvement of said
estate (if any there be) and to pay in all such sums
of money as he may receive to the Treasurer of this
State, taking duplicate receipts therefor, and lodge
one of said receipts in the Secretary's office.
(p.229.)
p.225 REVOLUTIONARY ITEMS.
The Lawrence Farm.
To the Honourable the General Court of the Common-
wealth of Massachusetts, now convened at Boston -
Humbly shows Amos Lawrence of Groton, that Captain
Samuel Tarbell, late of said Groton, deceased, died
seized of a farm containing one hundred acres of land
that after his death, the same was divided into nine
shares, two whereof have been set off to his son,
Samuel Tarbell, now a refugee in New York, that the
same two shares have been since taken in execution
for a debt due to the Government, and your Petition-
er, having purchased the other shares, it hath be-
come necessary in order to his making a proper im-
provement of the same, that he should have the two
shares afore said wherefore he humbly prays your
Honours to take the matter under consideration and
to suffer him to purchase the same - the considera-
tion which he gave for the other shares was sixty
pounds, silver money, for each and he humbly hopes
that your Honours would not demand more of him than
the other proprietors, he would further observe that
the buildings are not fit to live in and no part can
be repaired without the whole that the fences are de-
caying and the land continually growing the worse and
these together with the Rates constantly arising, will
render the Interest but of very little value in a year
or two, whereof he hopes for the Interest of the Govern-
ment as well as for his own inconvenience, that he may
be allowed to purchase and he will pray, etc.
February 16th, 1781. Amos Lawrence.
This may certify that the subscribers with some of the
other heirs of Captain Samuel Tarbell, deceased, sold
their shares in said Tarbell's Farm in Groton, for
sixty pounds a share to Captain Amos Lawrence.
February 16th, 1781. (signed) Henry Farwell
Samuel Reed.
(Indorsed) Amos Lawrence* Petition & Report - Capt.
Mitchell, Capt. Waterman & Mr. Lewis.
(Massachusetts Archives, CCXXXI. 452)
15.
p.226 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts - In the House of
Representatives. March 3d, 1781.
On the Petition of Amos Lawrence of Groton, in the
County of Middlesex, praying that he may be allowed
to purchase two ninth parts of the Farm in the said
Town of Groton, which Captain Samuel Tarbell, deceas-
ed, died seized of, which two ninths was set off to
his son, Samuel Tarbell, and has since been taken by
Execution for a date due to this Government.
Resolved that the Committee who are appointed to sell
confiscated Estates in the County of Middlesex be &
hereby authorize and impowered to sell at publick or
private sale as they shall think most beneficial for
this Commonwealth, the above mentioned two-ninths of
the farm, the above said Captain Samuel Tarbell, de-
ceased, died seized of and was set off to his son,
Samuel Tarbell & make & execute a good & legal deed,
or deeds of the same and they are hereby directed to
pay the neat proceeds arising by said sale or sales
into the Treasury of this Commonwealth taking dupli-
cate receipts therefor one of which to be lodged in
the Secretary's office.
Sent up for concurrence. Caleb Davis, Speaker.
In Senate March 3d, 1781.
Read and Concurred. Jer: Powell - President.
Approved: John Hancock.
(Indorsed) Rec'd p.320 Resolve on the Petition of
Amos Lawrence empowering the Agents appointed to sell
confiscated Estates in the County of Middlesex, to
sell the Farm mentioned March 3d, 1781.
(Massachusetts Archives, CCXXXI. 451).
At this time the Honorable James Prescott, of Groton,
was one of a Committee of three appointed for Middle-
sex County, to sell forfeited estates.
Amos Lawrence, the petitioner, was the father of
Deacon Samuel Lawrence; he died on June 20, 1785,
when his son inherited the farm, which still re-
mains in possession of the family.
p.227 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR.
by Dr. Samuel A. Green - Groton.
COLONEL WILLIAM PRESCOTT.
At a meeting of the Massachusetts Historical Society,
held on June 9, 1887, Dr. Samuel A. Green, made the
following remarks:
In the early part of last month (May 4th) I had the
pleasure of meeting a kinswoman of Colonel William
William Prescott, who is probably the only person
now living who ever saw the hero of Bunker Hill and
certainly the only one who ever knew him or ever talk-
ed with him; and her recollections are interesting.
I refer to Mrs. Sarah (Chaplin) Rockwood, a resident
of Cortland, Cortland County, New York, who was the
youngest daughter of the Reverend Daniel Chaplin, D.D.
of Groton, the last minister of the town during the
period when it formed but a single parish.
Her mother was Susanna, eldest daughter of Judge James
Prescott, Colonel William Prescott's elder brother.
Mrs. Rockwood was born at Groton on November 8, 1785,
and Colonel William Prescott, her great-uncle, died
on October 13, 1795 - so that she was ten years old at
the time of his death. The date of her birth was duly
entered in the town records, and the entry corresponds
with that in her family Bible.
She describes Colonel william Prescott, as a tall,
well-proportioned man with blue eyes. He usually wore
a skull-cap; and he parted his hair in the middle,
wearing it long behind, braided loosely and tied with
a black ribbon, as was common in those days.
He had a pleasant countenance, and was remarkably
social and full of fun and anecdote. He was dignified
in his manners, and always had the bearing of a sold-
ier.
I (Dr. Samuel A. Green) am satisfied that her re-
collections of that early period, are clear and dis-
tinct. She shows in many ways that her memory of
events long since past, is still good, as it is of
more recent ones. Although she has entered upon the
second year of her second century, she reads the
newspapers and takes more than an ordinary interest
in public affairs.
Mrs. Rockwood died at Cortland, New York, on November
26, 1889, having reached the remarkable age of 104
years and
p.228 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE
REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
18 days. Her funeral took place on November 29; and
it is a source of sad satisfaction to me that I was
enabled to be present at the last rites paid to her
memory. According to Church-records, she was baptized
on November 13, 1785.
THE PRESCOTT MONUMENT.
In the autumn of 1879, a monument was erected by the
Town of Groton, which bears the following inscription:
COLONEL WILLIAM PRESCOTT
COMMANDER OF THE AMERICAN FORCES
AT THE BATTLE OF BUNKER HILL
WAS BORN ON THE 20TH OF FEBRUARY, 1726
IN A HOUSE WHICH STOOD
NEAR THIS SPOT.
It stands near the southerly end
of Main Street; and in connection with two other Memor-
ial stones, it was dedicated with appropriate exer-
cises in the Town Hall, on February 20, 1880, when an
historical address was delivered. By a vote of the town,
on April 2, 1894, this plot of land was named Prescott
Square.
A bronze statue of Colonel William Prescott was set
up within the grounds of the Bunker Hill Monument
Association at Charlestown, on June 17, 1881, when
an address was delivered by the Honorable Robert C.
Winthrop. It was made by William W. Story, the emin-
ent sculptor; and, as there is no portrait of Colonel
Prescott extant, Mr. Arthur Dexter, a great-grandson,
then living in Rome, was taken in a general way as a
model for his features.
p.229 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
REVOLUTIONARY ITEMS.
CAPTAIN ASA LAWRENCE.
Asa Lawrence, mentioned below, commanded one of the
two companies that marched from Groton to Cambridge
on the Alarm of April 19, 1775. He was a son of Peleg
Lawrence, and he lived on the farm known later as the
Governor Sullivan place. It is situated on the Lowell
road and took its name from James Sullivan, who was
afterward Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachus-
etts. Sullivan was the Justice of the Peace, who
took Lawrence's deposition on February 1, 1779.
See page 8 for references to the skirmish at Chelsea;
and for a fuller account, see Amos Farnsworth's Diary
in the "Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical
Society." Insert: my transcription of Amos Farns-
worth's Diary.
Major Amos Farnsworth - Noddle's Island
His Journal of the Revolutionary War.
(original journal is now owned by the Mass. Hist. Society.)
Subject: FARNSWORTH, Amos Jr.
His Journal of the Revolutionary War - Noddle's Island
Source: Matthias Farnsworth and His Descendants in America
A Monograph by Claudius Buchanan Farnsworth
Published privately by the author 1891
Journal of Amos Farnsworth, Jr.
April 1775
"We marched and came there (to Concord) where some had been killed.
Pulled on and came to Lexington, where much hurt was done to the
houses by breaking glass and burning of many houses, but they were
forced to retreat though they were more numerous than we. And I saw
many dead Regulars by the way. Went into a house where the blood was
half over shoes..
Thursday April 20, 1775
Came to Cambridge in the forenoon. There were some men wanted to go
to Charlestown. I went, for one, and viewed the Regulars and found
they were intrenching on Charlestown Hill.
Friday, May ye 26.
At night I and about ten of our company marched with a party of men,
betwixt two and three hundred, for Noddle's Island, headed by Col.
Nixon. We marched through Mystic, Malden and Chelsea.
Saturday May ye 27.
Went on Hogg Island and brought off six horses, twenty-seven horned
cattle and four hundred and eleven sheep. About the middle of the
afternoon went from Hog Island to Noddle's Island and set one house
and barn on fire. Killed some horses and cattle; brought off two or
three cows; one horse. I with five men got off the horse and before
we got from Noddle's Island to Hog Island we were fired upon by a
privateer schooner; but we crossed the river and about fifteen of us
squatted down in a ditch on the marsh and stood our ground; and there
came a company of Regulars on the march on the other side of the river
and the schooner, and we had a hot fire until the Regulars retreated.
But not withstanding the bullets flew very thick not a man of us (was)
killed. Surely God has a favor towards us, and he can save in one
place as well as another. We left the Island about sunset and came to
Chelsea and on Saturday about ten at night marched to Winnisimet ferry
where there was a schooner and a sloop afiring with great fury upon us
there; but thanks be to God that gave us the victory at this time for
through his Providence the schooner that played upon us ran aground
and we set fire to her and consumed her there, and the sloop received
much damage in this engagement. We had not a man killed; but four
wounded and we hope all will recover. One of the four was a Townsend
man belonging to our company. The bullet went through his mouth from
one cheek to the other.
Thursday June ye 1.
There were sheep and cattle and horses we hear, to ye amount of four
or five hundred sheep, twenty or thirty cattle and a number of horses
brought along that our people took from the Regulars off Noddle's
Island.
Friday, June 16.
Col. William Prescott.
Nothing done in ye forenoon. In the afternoon we had orders to be
ready to march at six. Agreeable to orders our regiment paraded and
about sunset we were drawn up and had prayers and about dusk marched
for Bunker Hill under command of our own Colonel William Prescott. Just
before we turned out of the road to go up Bunker's Hill, Charlestown,
we were halted, and about sixty men were taken out of our battalion to
go into Charlestown, I being one of them. Capt. Nutting (probably
Capt. John Nutting of Pepperell, captain of a company of "minute men"
from that place) headed us down to the town house. We set our sentin-
els by the water side. The most of us got in the town house but had
orders not to shut our eyes. Our men marched to Bunker Hill and begun
the entrenchments and carried it on with the utmost vigor all night.
Early in the morning I joined them.
Saturday June ye 17.
The enemy appeared to be much alarmed on Saturday morning when they
discovered our operations and immediately began a heavy cannonading
from a battery on Copp's Hill, Boston and from the ships in ye
harbor. We with little loss continued to carry on our work till ten
o'clock when we discovered a large body of the enemy crossing Charles
River from Boston. They landed on a point of land about a mile east-
ward of our entrenchment and immediately disposed their army for an
attack, previous to which they set fire to the town of Charlestown.
It is supposed that the enemy intended to attack us under the cover of
the smoke from the burning houses: the wind favoring them in such a
design; while on the other side their army was extending northward
towards Mystic river with an apparent design of surrounding our men
in the works and of cutting off any assistance intended for our relief.
They were, however, in some measure counteracted in this design, and
drew their army into closer order. As the enemy approached our men
were not only exposed to the attack of a very numerous muquetry but
to a heavy fire from the battery on Copp's Hill, 4 or 5 men of war,
several armed boats or floating batteries in Mystic River, and a numb-
er of field pieces. Notwithstanding we within the entrenchment and at
a breastwork within sustained the enemy's attacks with real bravery
and resolution. Killed and wounded great numbers, and repulsed them
several times; and after bearing for about two hours as severe and
heavy a fire as perhaps ever was known, and many having fired away all
their amunition, and having no reinforcement although there was a
great body of men nie by, we were overpowered by numbers and obliged
to leave the intrenchment, retreating about sunset to a small distance
until the enemy had got in. I then retreated about ten or fifteen rods.
Then I received a wound in my right arm, the ball going through a
little
below the elbow, breaking the little shell bone. Another ball struck
my back, taking off a piece of skin about as big as a penny; but I got
to Cambridge that night.
The town of Charlestown I supposed to contain about 300 dwelling houses
a great number of which were large and elegant, besides 150 or 200
other buildings (these) are almost laid in ashes by the barbarity and
wanton cruelty of that infernal villain Thomas Gage. Oh! the goodness
of God in preserving my life though they fell on my right hand and on
my left. I was in great pain the first night with my wound.
Sunday June 18.
I and Phineas Hubbard came to Mr. Watsons.
Monday June 19.
Mr. Hubbard and I set out for home. Came as far as Lincoln; met our
honored fathers. Got as far as Concord that night.
Tuesday, June 20. We got home.
Note: Here he makes a memorandum that for a considerable time past, he
could not keep up his journal on account of the wound in his arm but
under date of August 14, he says:
"Now I begin to write a littel;" and he proceeds: "Monday August 14.
Set out for Cambridge got there that day: found our company pretty
well." From that day to August 24 nothing of interest is recorded.
On that day he says:
"About twelve o'clock I had my arm dressed. Dr. Hart opened it nigh
two inches down to the bone. About 3 in the afternoon Col. William
Prescott (his cousin) gave orders to march to Sewell's Point and they
marched, but I did not go with them because of my wound."
He remained with the army at Cambridge until Oct. 27 and his diary
contains a record of the doings, in which, in consequence of his wound,
he was an actor only to a limited extent. On that day he was furlough-
ed and sent home, when it was found that in addition to his wound he
had camp fever. He recovered however, but was unable again to return
to the army at Cambridge. I have not thought proper to change a word
of this simple record of what was done under his observation and of
the acts in which he was a participant from the 19th of April to the
17th of June, 1775. His words are better than mine. (Claudius Farns-
worth)
Much that Amos Farnsworth observed was not commited to his diary and
this writer remembers listening as a boy to his reminiscences of Bunker
Hill and other acts in the Revolutionary drama in which he was an act-
or. Among other things I heard him say that as the troops under
Colonel Prescott were leaving the entrenchment at Bunker Hill they met
General Putnam who, with a large body of men had remained "nie by", as
Amos Farnsworth expressed it in his diary, but had not participated in
the battle. Amos Farnsworth was very near the two commanders and
distinctly hear the conversation between them. Colonel Prescott began
by sharply asking General Putnam why he had not sent up reinforcements
as he had promised. Putnam answered that he "could not drive the
damned dogs up." To this Colonel Prescott hotly responded: "Then why
did you not lead them up? They would have followed you."
Note: This conversation is re-iterated word for word in the memoirs
of Colonel William Prescott as reported in the Prescott Memorial.
On Tuesday, Dec. 5, 1775, Amos Farnsworth's father and his brother
Benjamin were both drowned by the upsetting of a boat in the Nashua
River, near where they lived and the whole care of the family devolved
on him. Yet, in spite of his wounded and weak arm and the state of the
family, the next year, in the summer of 1776, he volunteered to go to
the defence of Ticonderoga in Colonel Reed's regiment that was raised
in the neighborhood of Groton (MA) for that purpose. He had served
as a corporal at Bunker Hill. He had done so well that he was made an
ensign, equivalent to a second lieutenant, in that expedition. He went
into service in Col. Reed's expedition on the 23d of July and returned
home at the close of the year with his men. While at Ticonderoga he
was engaged in several affairs with the British which he briefly
relates in his journal, but which are not of sufficient interest to repeat
here.
He was afterwards while holding a commision as first lieutenant in a
company of Matrosses (commanded by William Swan) in Colonel Jonathan
Reed's regiment, sent with some troops to New Jersey, where notwith-
standing his weak arm, he performed effective service by his bravery
and judgement and by his care of his men, with whom he was always
popular.
His first commission as ensign or second lieutenant was in the
infantry.
His next commission was in the artillery or "Matrosses" as that branch
of the service was called. His commission as first lieutenant is in
the name of "The Major Part of the Council of Massachusetts Bay in New
England," as the State government had not then been organized, and
Massachusetts was then under an ex tempore government. His commission
as first lieutenant is as follows: Official Document...
State of Massachusetts Bay - The Major Part of the Council of Massa-
chusetts Bay in New England.
SEAL To Amos Farnsworth, Gentleman, Greeting.
"You being appointed First Lieutenant of a company of Matrosses
commanded by William Swan raised in the Sixth Regiment of Militia
in the County of Middlesex wherof Jonathan Reed Esquire is Colonel
to rank as Captain, By Virtue of the Power vested in us, We do by
these Presents (reposing specail Trust and Confidence in your Loyalty,
Courage and good Conduct,) Commission you accordingly. You are there-
fore carefully and deligently to discharge the Duty of a First Lieut.
in leading, ordering, and exercising said Company in Arms, both infer-
ior Officers and Soldiers; and to keep them in good Order and Disipline
And they are hereby commanded to obey you as their first Lieut., and
you are yourself, to observe and follow such Orders and instructions
as you shall from time to time receive from the Major Part of the
Council or your Superior Officers.
Given under our Hands and the Seal of the said State at Boston the
Nineteenth Day of October in the Year of our Lord, 1778.
By the Command of the Major Part of the Council
John Avery, Deputy Secretary
Jer. Powell
Artemas Ward
T. Cushing
Benj. Austin
H. Gardner
D. Hopkins
Saml. Danielson
N. Cushing
B. White
Danl. Davis
Oliver Prescott
Oliver Wendell
A. Fuller
E. Brooks
Fra. Dana
After the close of the war, he was commissioned as "Captain of a
company of Matrosses in the Brigade of Militia in the County of
Middlesex." That company is the old Groton Artillery Company. The
commission bears the signature of John Hancock as "Governor and
Commander in Chief in and over the Commonwealth of Massachusetts."
This company is still in existence. His next commission, signed
by Samuel Adams as Governor, appoints him "Major of a Battalion of
Artillery in the Second Brigade of the Third Division of the Militia
of this Commonwealth comprehending the County of Middlesex," and is
dated July 1, 1794.
The poverty of the people of Massachusetts at the close of the Revolu-
tionary War, and their distress in consequence of it was very great.
Paper money became valueless; many were heavily indebted; taxes were
burdensome; and the way out of their difficulties was obscure. Great
economy in the government was needed and practiced. The military
organizations were reduced to a point lower than was consistent with
with safety. In the year 1786 the "Shay's Rebellion" broke out. The
necessity of having some provision in the laws for the collection of
debts so exasperated some hasty and indebted persons that they did as
has been done in other periods of the world's history, they rebelled.
Job Shattuck of Groton (MA) was one of the leaders in the rebellion.
The cannon of the Groton Artillery Company, then under Major Amos
Farnsworth's command were usually kept in an out-building on his farm.
The first movement made by Shattuck and his associates was one October
night, 1786, to break open the building in which the guns were stored,
drag them across the fields to the Nashua River and pitch them into it,
after which they retired quietly to their homes. The loss of the guns
was learned early the next morning; the course taken with them was
tracked through the frosty grass; they were very soon found, and before
night they were restored to the place from which they had been taken
and a guard was kept over them afterwards until the close of the
political troubles.
Amos Farnsworth had the reputation of being an efficient and very
popular officer. In addition to his military services he was for
several years a deacon of the church of Groton and he served the church
in many business ways until old age diminished his powers. He died
October 29, 1847 at the advanced age of ninety three years and six
months. His wife survived him but a few weeks and died Dec. 11, 1847
aged ninety years.
____________________________________________________________________
Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth
(Amos is in my direct line of descent)
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE
REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
p.229 continued.
It will be noticed that Captain Lawrence speaks of the
action as a 'Battle.'
State of the Massachusetts Bay.
To the Honourable, the Council and House of Represent-
atives in General Court Assembled.
State of the Massachusetts Bay.
Humbly shews Asa Lawrence of Groton, in the County of
Middlesex, that he was in the engagement of the 17th
of June at Charlestown, and there lost goods, an account
whereof is hereunto annexed - and that at the Battle
of Chelsea, he risqued his life at the Command of Gen-
eral Putnam, to burn one of the enemies armed vessels
and after many attempts he finally effected the same,
whereby there was an acquisition of twelve pieces of
cannon to the public, and also that he served seven
weeks in the late Expedition against Rhode Island as
a volunteer and has never had any reward for said ser-
vices or compensation for his said losses. Wherefore
he prays that a due allowance may be made for him for
his services and losses aforesaid and he as in duty
bound shall ever pray, etc.
Groton 28th January, 1779 Asa Lawrence.
The State of Massachusetts Bay, to Asa Lawrence for
loss at Bunker Hill, June 17th, 1775.
To one gun & bayonet 3 8
To one coat 40/blanket 30/ 3 10
Knapsack & tumpline 12/ 12
______
7 10
p.230 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
by Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
STATE OF MASSACHUSETTS BAY.
Middlesex as February 1st, 1779. Then the said
Asa Lawrence appeared and made oath to the truth
of the above account before me.
James Sullivan, Justice of the
Peace.
March 23, 1780. Col. Gerrish, Capt. Newton & Capt.
Bonney.
A Grant of £100 to Asa Lawrence for losses sustained
at Bunker Hill, May 4, 1780 - No. 71.
(Indorsed) Asa Lawrence Petition.
(Massachusetts Archives, CLXXXIV.388)
Miscellaneous Items.
COLONEL OLIVER PRESCOTT.
Several days before the Battle of Lexington, a
hostile incursion by the English soldiers station-
ed in Boston, was expected by the Patriots. Its aim
was the destruction of the stores collected for the
use of the Provincial cause; and on this account,
every movement of the British troops was closely
watched. At this time the Committees of Safety and
of Supplies voted that some of the stores should be
kept at Groton; and if their plan had been fully
carried out, it is among the possibilities of the
War that another battle might have been fought in
Middlesex County, and that the township of Groton
might have been its scene of action. But open hos-
hostilities began so soon afterward, that no time
was given to make the removal of the stores. It was
ordered by these Committees, April 17, 1775, that
the four six pounders be transported from Concord
to Groton, and put under the care of Colonel Oliver
Prescott.
Insert.
Dr. Oliver Prescott
Source: The Prescott Memorial
*footnote: Dr. Oliver Prescott, Jr., who was a nephew of Colonel William Prescott, and
intimate in his family, and who was a young man at the time of the Revolution, had fre-
quently heard his uncle, the colonel, relate a variety of anecdotes and incidents in his
experiences while in the army. He subsequently wrote sketches of the three brothers, to
wit, his father, Doctor Oliver Prescott, Sr., and his uncles, Colonel William Prescott
and Judge James Prescott, for his own use and amusement and that of his family, in which
he had recorded many interesting anecdotes and incidents in their lives and experiences,
not hitherto published, all of which he saw or heard them relate. These sketches are now
in the possession of his daughter, Miss Harriet Prescott of Cambridge, Mass., from which
she has very kindly permitted the following extracts to be selected:
Dr. Oliver Prescott, Jr. was a nephew of Colonel William Prescott and
intimate in his family. He was a young man at the time of the
Revolution and had frequently heard his uncle, the Colonel, relate a
variety of anecdotes and incidents in his experience while in the army.
Oliver subsequently wrote sketches of the three brothers, to wit, his
father, Dr. Oliver Prescott, Sr., and his uncles, Colonel William
Prescott and Judge James Prescott. He wrote for his own amusement and
that of the family, in which he had recorded many interesting anecdotes
and incidents in their lives and experiences not hitherto published,
all of which he saw or heard them relate. These sketches are now in
the posession of his daughter, Miss Harriet Prescott of Cambridge, Mass., (b.
April 7, 1795; died unm) from which she kindly permitted the
following extracts to be selected. (1870)
Excerpt from Dr. Oliver Prescott's Anecdotes:
"The breast work or redoubt (at Bunker Hill) was only constructed of such
earth as the party had thrown up in the middle of the night and
was not more than breast high to a man of medium height. Colonel
Prescott being a very tall man, six feet and two or three inches in
height, his head and shoulders and a considerable portion of his body
must have been exposed during the whole engagement. He wore a three
cornered cocked hat and a ban-yan (or calico coat) His clothing was
repeatedly spattered with the blood and the brains of the killed and
wounded. Colonel Prescott did not leave the redoubt until many of the
enemy had taken possession of it. They made numerous attempts to pierce his
body with their bayonets, all of which he dexterously parried with his sword,
and he escaped without a wound. The writer,
(Dr. Oliver Prescott, Jr) saw the waistcoat and the ban-van coat after
the engagement, and they had several holes pierced by the bayonets of
the British in their attempts at his life."
The following anecdote as related by Colonel William Prescott to Oliver
is as follows:
"The command of the detachment sent to Bunker Hill has by some writers been state to have
been given to General Putnam, but it appears that General Putnam was not in the redoubt
during any part of the action. He came into the intrenchment that morning some time be-
fore the action commenced and ordered a division of the men to carry away the intrenching
tools from the works that they might not be taken by the enemy, and at the same time he
engaged to send these men back together with a reinforcement. But the men did not return
nor was a reinforcement sent. Colonel Prescott met General Putnam after the action, near
Charlestown Neck and inquired the cause of his failing to fulfill his engagement. General
Putnam replied, 'I could not make the dogs go' Colonel Prescott the stated 'If you had
said to them, 'Come,' you would have found men enough.' This statement (writes Dr.
Oliver Prescott, Jr.), I received from Colonel Prescott himself, who never forgave Putnam
for this breach of promise. Dr. Oliver Prescott states that several other Officers who
were in that action gave the same account of Putnam's conduct on that day."
"The breast work, or redoubt, was only constructed of such earth as the party had thrown
up after the middle of the night and was not more than breast high to a man of medium
height. Colonel Prescott, being a very tall man, six feet and two or three inches in
height, his head and shoulders and a considerable portion of his body must have been ex-
posed during the whole engagement. He wore a three-cornered cocked hat and a ban-yun, or
calico coat. His clothing wa repeatedly spattered with the blood of the killed and wound-
ed. Colonel Prescott did not leave the redoubt until many of the enemy had taken poss-
ession of it. They made numerous attempts to pierce his body with their bayonets, all of
which he dexterously parried with his sword, and he escaped without a wound.
The writer, Dr. Oliver Prescott, Jr., saw the waistcoat and the banyan coat after the
engagement, and they had several holes pierced by the bayonets of the British, in their
attempts to take his life." "On the morning of the battle, Gage, the British commander,
viewed the American works from an elevated position in Boston (Copp's Hill) and called
upon the Tory refugees to see if they knew the commanding officer. Abijah Willard, of
Lancaster, a mandamus counsellor, whose wife was a sister of Colonel Prescott, having
viewed the works with a glass, informed Gage that he knew the commander well, and 'tis
my brother-in-law, Prescott' Gage then asked, 'Will he fight?' 'Yes' replied Willard
"that man will fight hell, and if his men are like him, you will have bloody work today."
"The following anecdote the writer had from Colonel Prescott himself: "While stationed
with his regiment near New York in 1776, the out guards brought in a British deserter.
As they approached the camp, the deserter observed to the guards, 'that officer yonder
is Colonel Prescott.' The guard informed Col. Prescott of the fact. 'How come you to
know me?' inquired Colonel Prescott? 'I saw you at Bunker Hill,' replied the soldier,
'and recollected you immediately.' 'Why did you not kill me at the time?' asked Col.
Prescott. 'I tried my best,' said the soldier, 'I took deliberate aim at you, more than
once, when I thought it impossible for you to escape. 'I also pushed at you several times
with my bayonet when you were as near as I could have wished, and after several of us
had taken possession of your works.' 'You are a brave fellow,' replied Colonel Pres-
cott, 'come into my tent and I will treat you.'
"While on the retreat from the scene of conflict, Col. Prescott came to a house on
Charlestown street, near the 'neck,' where there were three or four men who had just
prepared a bowl of punch, and which they presented to Col. Prescott, before having
tasted it. This, to a man suffering with fatigue and parched with thirst, was a most
gratifying and acceptable offering. Col. Prescott took the bowl, but before he had time
to partake of its contents, a cannon ball passed through the house, upon which the men
immediately fled, leaving Colonel Prescott to drain the bowl by himself, and at his
leisure."
Dr. Oliver Prescott further relates that Colonel Prescott was a true patriot. As a
neighbor, he was kind, benevolent and a peacemaker, in his town, and he was universally
loved and respected.
THE PRESCOTT MEMORIAL.
p.60
DR. OLIVER PRESCOTT
Dr. Oliver Prescott took an early and decided part in the American Revolution by entering
warmly into those measures which were necessary to vindicate our national rights, and by
assisting cheerfully and largely in their defence. He received many important appoint-
ments. In the militia, he was appointed by the King a Major, then Lieutenant Colonel and
then Colonel. In 1776 he was appointed a Brigadier General for Middlesex County by the
Executive Council of Massachusetts Bay; he also was in the same year chosen a member of
the Board of War. In 1777 he was elected a member of the Supreme Executive Council; and
in 1778 he was appointed the 3rd Major General of the militia throughout the Commonwealth.
He was elected Town Clerk of Groton, Massachusetts from 1765 to 1777, inclusive, (13
years). Upon the death of John Winthrop, LL.D., in 1779, he, Dr. Oliver Prescott, was
appointed his successor in the office of Judge of Probate, etc. for the county of Middle-
sex, which office he retained until his death.
In 1781 he was appointed 2nd Major General of the militia, but soon tendered his resigna-
tion by reason of other important duties. In 1781, Dr. Prescott received from the govern-
ment a commission to "cause to be arrested and committed to jail, any person whom he
should deem the safety of the Commonwealth required to be restrained of his personal
liberty, or whose enlargement within the Commonwealth was dangerous thereto."*
*footnote: On the 3d of January, 1775, he with his brother, James Prescott and Jonathan
and Amos Lawrence, and eleven others, were appointed a committee to see that the resolves
of the Continental Congress relative to the "Test Oath," so called, "be faithfully carried into effect."
p.60 cont'd.
A TRUSTEE OF THE GROTON ACADEMY.
Dr. Prescott was incorporated a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in
1780. Also, one of the Trustees of Groton Academy, and the first President of the Board.
He was in stature a full six feet in height, somewhat corpulent, and possessed and ever
practiced a peculiar suavity and politeness of manners, and a gentlemanly deportment,
which strongly endeared him to the people, always commanding esteem and respect.
Dr. Prescott was not only respected for the above qualities, but the whole was sweetened
by a uniform Christian life and true devotion to the cause of Christianity, and the social virtues in which he and his wife walked together and adorned their profession by
a well ordered life and godly conversation. He possessed uncommon powers and versatility
of mind, showing himself in all matters of difficulty, at once competent to its develop-
ment and elucidation by which he was enabled to dispatch business with surprising rapidity.
Dr. Prescott ended a well spent and useful life on the 17th of November, 1804, aged 75
years and nearly 9 months; caused by the pectoral dropsy, the same disease that terminated the existence of his two brothers, the Honorable James Prescott and Colonel
William Prescott. Dr. Prescott's wife had died previously on the 27th of September,
1798, aged 63 years.
The Honorable Benjamin Prescott's seventh and youngest child was:
7. Mary Prescott b. Aug 7, 1735; died October 25, 1751.
(full book, The Prescott Memorial - sent on request to me:
Janice Farnsworth - farns10th@aol.com )
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Groton, Massachusetts During the Revolutionary
War.
p.230 (continued)
On the next day it was voted that all the ammuni-
tion should be deposited in nine different towns
of the Province, of which Groton was one, and that
one-half of the musket cartridges be removed from
Stow to Groton. It was also voted that two "medi-
cinal chests" should be kept at different places
in the town, and that eleven hundred tents be de-
deposited in equal quantities in
p.231 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Groton, and six other towns. See "The Journals of
each Provincial Congress of Massachusetts in 1774
and 1775, and of the Committee of Safety" (pp. 516-
518).
Mr. Wheildon, in his "New Chapter in the History of
the Concord Fight," reprinted near the end of this
volume, gives other facts relating to these orders
by the Committees of Safety and Supplies.
During this period, a committee was appointed to
inspect the stock of powder in the Province, and
report the amount on hand in various towns. This
they did on May 25, 1775, when there was, accord-
ing to the Report, a barrel of powder in Groton,
kept in the powder-house or magazine which, two
years later, was enlarged by the Board of War.
BENJAMIN BANCROFT.
This magazine was built on the land of Benjamin
Bancroft and afterward owned by the Honorable James
Prescott, Jr. It was situated in the roadway of the
present High Street, Groton - which then was not
laid out - perhaps thirty five rods from its north
end. It was a stone building, about twelve feet
square, and taken previously, it was not used for
any purpose, and became much dilapidated. Some of
the material from the building was used in stoning
a well, dug near the Meeting-house, in order to
supply in part, Mr. Hoar's barns with water.
The following papers, found at the State House, re-
late to the magazine, as well as to the Guard having
it in charge:
State of Massachusetts Bay. Council Champer, July 10,
1777.
Whereas it appears that it is absolutely necessary
that a Magazine for powder should be erected in some
interior part of this State, the other magazines
being insufficient or unsafe - therefore:
Voted that it be and hereby is recommended to the
Board of War to enlarge the magazine at Groton in
the County of Middlesex, sufficient to contain five
hundred barrels of Powder.
Read and Accepted. Jonathan Avery, Deputy Secretary.
Indorsed. Order of Council recommending to the Board
of War to enlarge the Powder Magazine at Groton, July
10, 1777.
(Massachusetts Archives, CLXXIII.274).
p.232 GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR.
By Dr. Samuel Abbott Green.
State of the Massachusetts Bay. Council Chamber
July 17th, 1777.
Whereas the Board of War have deposited five hundred
barrels of powder in the magazine at Groton, in the
County of Middlesex, for the use of this State, and
it appears necessary that a Guard be constantly kept
at the magazine for the security thereof,
Therefore, ordered that one Corporal and four
privates be appointed by the Brigadier of the County
of Middlesex aforesaid, from the militia in the said
Town of Groton for that purpose, who shall be allow-
ed such pay and subsistance as the General Court
shall hereafter order; and the said Brigadeer is
also ordered to take special care that no person
be inlisted into said Guard, that is not known to
be attached to the American Cause.
Read and Accepted Jno. Avery, Deputy Secretary.
Indorsed. Order of Council to the Brigadier of the
County of Middlesex to detach a Guard to guard the
Magazine at Groton - July 18, 1777.
Massachusetts Archives, CLXXIII. 290.
State of the Massachusetts Bay. Council Chamber
November 7, 1777.
Whereas it hath been represented to this Board that
the Guard which hath been kept at the magazine in
Groton, in the County of Middlesex, in consequence
of an order of Council passed July 17th, 1777, is
not sufficient for the security of the stores de-
posited therein for the use of this State.
Therefore, ordered that the Brigadier of the County
of Middlesex be & hereby is directed to inlist or
cause to be drafted from the militia in the Town of
Groton aforesaid, one Sergeant and nine privates,
to serve as a Guard for the aforesaid Stores, until
the further order of Council, who shall be allowed
such pay and subsistance as the General Court shall
hereafter order.
Read and Accepted. Jonathan Avery, Director Secre-
tary
Indorsed. Order to the Brigadier of the County of
Middlesex to detach a Guard of a Sergeant and nine
privates for the stores in Groton, November 7, 1777.
Massachusetts Archives, CLXXIII. 549.
Subsequently, on February 3, 1778, the General Court
passed a Resolve "That there be allowed and paid out
of the public treasury of this State, unto the men
stationed at Groton, for a guard, the same wages and
rations that are allowed to the sea-coast men."
p.233 REVOLUTIONARY ITEMS.
GROTON, MASSACHUSETTS DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Two years later, on January 13, 1780, another re-
solve was passed, directing Joseph Hosmer -
"forthwith to remove all the powder in the magazine
at Groton to the following towns, viz. one third of
it to Concord, one third to Billerica, and one third
to Woburn, to be delivered into the care of the
Selectmen of said towns, he taking their receipt
therefor, which he is directed to lodge with the
Board of War, and as soon as said powder is removed
that the guards now doing duty at said magazine in
Groton, be discharged from any further service there,
and that said Joseph Hosmer, Esquire, lay his account
of the expenses of removing the same before the
Committee on accounts for allowance and payment.
This Resolve was afterward so far modified by the
General Court, on May 4, that Joseph Hosmer was
ordered "to deliver one third part of the powder
aforesaid to the care of the Selectmen of Groton,
and take their receipt for the same, the Resolve
of the 12th (13th) of January to the contrary not
withstanding."
The following application to the Coundil from Dr.
Oliver Prescott, relates to the Revolutionary period,
and will explain itself:
May it please your Honors,
The windows of the Publick Meeting House & School-
house in the Town of Groton, are very much broken
and it is not in the power of the Selectmen to pur-
chase a box of Glass unless it be from the Board of
War, who have been so obliging as to inform me they
would sell a box for that purpose by your Honor's
permission - Therefore [1] earnestly request an
order for that purpose which will much oblige the
Town. Your most obliged & very humble Servant,
October 16th, 1779 Oliver Prescott.
To: The Honorable Council - Massachusetts Bay.
Underneath is written the action of the Council,
as follows:
To be continued - p.234 - Groton During The
Revolution. Transcribed by Janice Farnsworth
p.234 GROTON DURING THE REVOLUTION.