RE:CORDS OF

ROBERT FLJLLER

RECORDS OF

ROBERT FULLER

of Salem and Rehoboth

AND SOME OF HIS DESCENDANTS

by Clarence C. Fuller

Foxboro, Mass.

Privately Printed in Norwood, Mass. Printed in the United States of America by NORWOOD PRINTING COMPANY, Norwood, Mass. 1969 THE GOOD SHEPHERD Memorial window at the First Baptist Church, Mansfield, Mass. ''In memory of Deacon Pierpont M. Edwards and Susan Fuller Edwards'' Dedicated J u1y 1914

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter Page I. Historical Sketches ...... 1 Early History of Salem ...... 1 Early History of Rehoboth ...... 3 II. Roberti Fuller, ca. 1615 - 1706 ...... 17 Original Rehobo~h Land Records concerning Roberti Fuller ...... 48 Recorded Deeds of Robertl Fuller ...... 60 Recorded Deeds of Robert and . . . . 66 The Bowen Family of Early Rehoboth ...... 73 III. Samuel2 Fuller, ca. l 649 - 1724 ...... 77 Samuel's Estate ...... 81 Ide Family of Early Rehoboth ...... 86 IV. Samue13 Fuller, 1676 - 1724 ...... 87 Estate of Samuel3 Fuller ...... 96 Land Owned by Samuel3 Fuller .... _...... 108 Wilmarth Family of Early Rehoboth ...... 117 V. Timothy4 Fuller, 1710/11 - 1782 ...... 121 Timothy's Estate ...... 144 Land Transactions of Timothy4 Fuller ...... 159 Recorded Deeds of Timothy4 Fuller ...... 165 Hannah Bliss and Her Father's Estate ...... 172 Bliss Family of Early Rehoboth ...... 176 Notes on the Thurber Family Genealogy ...... 180 VI. Timothy5 Fuller, 175 l - 1809 ...... 184 Estate of His Mother, Elizabeth (Thurber) Fuller ... 191 Settlement of Timothy's Estate ...... 196 Land Transactions of Timothy5 Fuller ...... 21 O Notes on the Medbury Family ...... 220

V vi TABLE OF CONTENTS

Vil. Timothy6 Fuller, 1799 - 1866 ...... 222 Timothy's Estate ...... 229 Division of the Fuller Homestead ...... 233 Timothy6 - Land Transactions ...... 237 Recorded Deeds of Timothy6 Fuller ...... 240 Notes on the Horton Family ...... 254 Notes on the Cornell Family ...... 256 VIII. Hiram7 Dexter Fuller, 1835 - 1891 ...... 258 Estate of Hiram Dexter Fuller ...... 281 Susan Carpenter (Perry) Fuller ...... 283 Estate of Susan C. (Fuller) Edwards ...... 291 Recorded Deeds of Hiram and/or Susan C. Fuller .. 292 The Perry Family of Rehoboth ...... 299 The Carpenter Family of Rehoboth ...... 300 IX. Fuller Genealogy ...... 302 Glossary ...... 334 Abbreviations ...... 335 Bibliography ...... 336 Acknowledgements ...... 340 Index of Fullers ...... 341 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

Page "The Good Shepherd" window, Baptist Church, Mansfield, Mass. (Frontispiece) "M F" gravestone, Newman Cemetery, East Providence, R.I...... 4 7 Map locating Salem land of Robert and Margaret Fuller ...... 70 Facsimile of deed, May 26, 1696, Robert to son Jonathan ...... 72 Facsimile of inventory, Aug. 29, 1676, SamueJ2 Fuller estate ...... 83 Map of Fuller gravestones, Palmer River Cemetery, Rehoboth, Mass...... 97 Signature of SamueJ3 Fuller ...... 98 Signatures of Samuel4 Fuller, Ebenezer4 Fuller, and others ...... l 02 Signatures of Dorothy Fuller, Samuel Peck, Jonathan Bliss ...... 105 Facsimile of "Choyce for garden" by Timothy4, Dorothy, and Ruth ..... 106 Reproduction of Dorothy Fuller gravestone, Palmer River Cemetery ..... 120 Framework of Timothy4 Fuller house ...... 128 Froe used to split shingles ...... 129 Drawing of Timothy4 Fuller house on Rocky Hill, Rehoboth ...... 131 Floor plan of Timothy4 Fuller house ...... 13 2 Signature of Elizabeth Fuller ...... 145 Signatures of Timothy5 Fuller, Thos. Carpenter, Ebenezer Peck ...... 146 Signature ofTimothyS Fuller ...... - ...... 153 Signatures of Elizabeth Fuller, Thos. Carpenter, Timothy Fuller ...... 153 Map of Timothy4 estate and division of March 31, 1784 ...... 160 Reproduction of Hannah Fuller gravestone, Palmer River C.:metery ...... 179 Signatures of David Perry, Jr., Jeremiah Wheeler, Jr., Isaia'1 Allen ...... I 94 Timothy Fuller house in 1957 ...... 197 Floor plan of original house and addition to west end ...... 198 Gravestone of Timothy6 and Olive Fuller, Village Cemetrry ...... 227 Photos of Timothy6 and Olive Fuller and eight of their children ...... 230 Map of land division March 29, 1821, Timothy5 Fuller fstate ...... 238 Photo of Hiram Dexter 7 Fuller ...... 260 Signature of Hiram D. Fuller ...... 260 Photo of Susan (Perry) Fuller ...... 260 Signature of Susan C. Fuller ...... 260

vii viii LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

Hiram D. Fuller house, Perryville Road, Rehoboth ...... 261 Map of Perryville I 871 ...... 262 Two-wheeled dump cart ...... 264 Photo First Baptist Church and No. Main St., Mansfield, ca. 1882 ...... 267 Photo looking north on Main St., Mansfield, ca. 1882 ...... 267 Photo corner East, West, and Main Sts., Mansfield, ca. 1882 ...... 269 Photo Mansfield Railroad depot, ca. 1882 ...... 269 Facsimile first advertisement of H. D. Fuller, "Mansfield News." ...... 271 Photo of Hiram and Susan Fuller gravestone, Spring Brook Cemetery .... 28 I Signature of Susan C. Edwards ...... 290 Map of H. D. & S. C. Fuller property, School Street, Mansfield ...... 298 Genealogical outline of eleven generations ...... 303 THE NAME FULLER

Fuller is an old English occupational surname. Employed by woolen cloth manufacturers, a "fuller" scoured the cloth after weaving to render it whiter and more compact, thicker, and consequently more durable. As early as the fifteenth century, many fullers were in the southeastern coastal counties of Suffolk and Norfolk. The original home of the fullers may have been in these counties where many woolen manufacturers were located. In these and other counties the trade of a fuller was of importance, as the quality of the finished cloth would be largely dependent on the expertness of these craftsmen. The earliest method of processing included sprinkling the woven cloth with a clay known as "fullers' earth." The cloth was folded in a tub with water where the fuller would walk on it, presumably with his bare feet, u.1til the objective of fulling was accomplished. This part of the process was also the occupation of a "walker" from whence the surname Walker was derived. In due time the early fashion of treading out the cloth became replaced by simple machinery called fulling mills. The introduction of machine methods met with resistance as is often the case when a change in established procedures takes place. A complaint made to King Edward IV (1461-1483) began by saying "hats, caps, and bonnets hitherto made, wrought, fulled, and thickened in the wonted manner, that is to say, with hands and feet," and then proceeded to urge that the use of mills brought inferior articles into the market. Reference to the fuller's trade is made in an old story which illustrates the process of cloth making: ix X THE NAME FULLER

Cloth that cometh fro the wevyng Is nought comely to wear Til it be fulled under foot, Or in fullying stokkes Washen wel with water, And with taseles cracched Y-touked, and y-teynted, And under taillours handle. The "taseles" mentioned were the common teasel, a rough prickly plant, similar to the. thistle, which when dried was used for scratching the woolen cloth, and thereby raising the nap. In an old statute of Edward IV it was required "that every fuller ... in his craft and occupation of fuller or tayseler of cloth, shall exercise and use taysels (teasels) and no cards which deceitfully impair the cloth." Y-touked presumably means tucked or stretched on a tenter frame previous to being dyed (teynted), after which the finished cloth is ready for the tailor. The adoption of surnames in England beginning in the eleventh and twelfth centuries, was the result of a growing necessity due to increasing population as well as expanding commerce and industry. It became increasingly impossible to maintain current identity of individuals unless each assumed a name which became his property. In the case of the fullers it was by adopting the name of the craft they followed, which gave them a fixed identity for life and was eventually passed on to their direct descendants. It will be seen, therefore, that all persons now bearing the occupational surname Fuller did not descend from one common ancestor of that name. PREFACE

Eight successive generations of my ancestors lived all or part of their lifetime in the village of Rehoboth, , beginning with Roberti Fuller, who was one of the earliest settlers, through and including the five children of Hiram Dexter? Fuller. This covers a continuous span of about 232 years, or two and one-third centuries, during which the welfare and prosperity of each family was influenced by the events which shaped the history of Rehoboth. Important local and general events of contemporary history will be outlined briefly for the earlier generations. Although my original objective was to write a specific genealogy of my own lineage, a great deal of related material was found while searching the old records for documentation. It seemed to me that such material, taken from town and county records, would add worthwhile information about the activity of each of the ancestors. It should put some "flesh on the bones" of the individuals who, in many genealogies, are simply a listing of names and dates. None of the ancestors in the early generations were great or near-great, but each generation left its imprint, and their histories and records survive. It is hoped that the information compiled from these records may prove interesting and helpful to other descendants of Robertl Fuller. So much data was accumulated concerning the early generations that it seems advisable to present it separately from the strictly genealogical outline. Chapters II through VIII will therefore relate the personal story of each of the first seven ancestors. Each chapter will be arranged by sections. The first section will quote the documented facts from original records. Comments concerning the probable activity of each ancestor supplement these known facts. The second section will cover settlement of estate from probate records. The third section will quote land records, which are included not only for their value as records of ownership, but in many cases offer genealogical xi xii PREFACE information of family relationships. Some deeds will be quoted completely and others will be briefed (as the generations progress deed forms become quite standardized). Where possible to obtain reasonably good documentation, the fourth section of each chapter will brief the maternal genealogy back to the emigrant ancestor, or otherwise give available facts. Rehoboth researchers are fortunate that records are available back to the time of the first settlement of the Seekonk planters or proprietors. The Town Meeting Records, the Vital Records, and certain other old record books and documents are in the possession of the Rehoboth Town Clerk. The old deed records prior to September 1686, probate records prior to 1687, and court records prior to 1692, are at Plymouth. On June 2, 1685 was divided into three counties, viz., Barnstable, Plymouth, and Bristol. Deeds, probate, and court records for Rehoboth after these dates are at Taunton, shire town of Bristol County. Other sources of information are church records, cemeteries, historical libraries, and the vital records at the State House in . For later generations the local newspapers are a good source of miscellaneous information. As a background for the years when Robert lived in Salem, the basic story of the founding and early years of this important colony is outlined briefly in Chapter I. Salem was well established and growing rapidly when Robert arrived there in 1638. He remained there for the next twelve years, and in 1650 or 1651, moved his family to Rehoboth where they lived for about twenty-six years. In 1677 he returned to Salem and remained there for twenty or more years. fo 1697, Robert and his second wife, Margaret, deeded what appears to have been the last of their Salem property and shortly thereafter went to Rehoboth again. They lived their few remaining years probably with Robert's eldest son Jonathan. As nearly as can be determined, Robert lived a total of 32 years in Salem, and a total of about 35 years in Rehoboth. In those early years, as they do today, the character and environment of the two towns contrasted greatly: Rehoboth a country residential and farming village; Salem a seaport town with enterprising industry, fishing, and commerce. To move his family of young children from an established community to an isolated settlement on the frontier wilderness of Plymouth Colony, was an important decision for Robert to have made. It was far-reaching, beyond any appreciation at the time, for it established the residence of a long line of Fullers who were content to remain in Rehoboth until the spring of 1882. CHAPTER I

HISTORICAL SKETCHES

EARLY HISTORY OF SALEM Salem was first settled in the autumn of 1626 by Roger Conant and three of his associates who came from the unsuccessful fishing settlement at Cape Ann, after that enterprise had been abandoned. Conant's motive was to found a plantation where those seeking religious freedom could find it. With his companions he looked for a location with fertile ground to plant, and sheltered within a bay. This they found about 16 miles south of Cape Ann on the peninsula between the Danvers and North rivers where they entered what is now Beverly harbor. It was in the territory called Naumkeag by the Indians. They built their houses and cleared the land for planting. It appears that a few other settlers joined them. Conant was the leader of this small group of pioneers. He wrote to a friend in England, explaining his objectives, and requested aid in getting a patent for the new colony. A year elapsed with no indication that the patent would be granted. In the fall of 1627 Conant sent his trusted associate, John Woodbury, to London to procure the patent and other necessities for the plantation. On arriving in London, Woodbury found that a broad plan for a settlement, of which Naumkeag was a part, was already under development by an important group of men. A company had been organized which originally was called the Company, but finally became the Company of the Massachusetts Bay. This company acquired all of the rights and interest in the Naumkeag territory and other lands adjacent, extending three miles north of the Merrimack river and three miles south of the Charles river. Captain John Endecott, one of the proprietors, was selected to go over and govern the colony at Naumkeag. He sailed from England

1 2 HISTORICAL SKETCHES

June 20, 1628 and arrived in Naumkeag September 6, 1628. With him on the "Abigail" were a number of other settlers, who increased the total in the little colony to 50 or 60 persons. Endecott was an able and efficient governor. He was elected Chief Magistrate of the colony and held that important position until 1655. In March of 16 2 9, King Charles granted a royal charter to the Massachusetts Bay Company, with authority for government within the territory. Later in the year the name "Salem" (meaning peace) was adopted for the colony at Naumkeag. Title to the land in Salem was vested in the town and apportioned to the individual settlers by the selectmen. The colony grew rapidly under the capable manage­ ment of Endecott. In 1629 over 200 new settlers were added to the colony, many of whom were skilled mechanics. Building materials and general supplies were sent over from England. In a very few years Salem expanded to become the most important colony on the American sea coast. On June 6, 1630, Governor John Winthrop arrived in Salem harbor. He had been chosen governor of the entire Massachusetts Bay Company territory by the Council in London. They had also voted to transfer the government of the Company ftom London to New England. The seat of government was moved from Salem to Boston. The immigrants who came over with Winthrop in his fleet, totalling 12 ships, formed the colony at Charlestown and Boston. Capt. Endecott remained in Salem but was made an Assistant of the General Court and attended the sessions held in Boston. In the year 1 638 so many new settlers arrived that Governor Winthrop, who had been keeping a record of new arrivals in the Bay Colony, was unable to record them all. In his Planters of the Commonwealth, Charles E. Banks refers to the "vast exodus of the 1630s" and his opinion of the reason is quoted as follows: The underlying motives which determined their decision to emigrate were undoubtedly economic. Land hunger and not religion was the cause of emigration of the majority. They may have hated the formalities of church ritual, but it is hard to believe they were willing to abandon everything they owned merely to be rid of clerical oligarchy. The average immigrant was indifferent to the theological hair splitting of the learned clergy. They did not hasten to join the church to become "freemen." A more acute cause of the vast exodus in the 1630's was the system of serfdom to lords of manors and the opportunity to escape from a life of profitless drudgery. Their ancestors for hundreds of years had made no progress under this system. Neither could they. The chance to become a free-holder and a tenant to no man was more pressing than emigrating for a chance to hear men preach without a surplice! HISTORICAL SKETCHES 3

Although Mr. Banks, and other historians, emphasize the economic advantages as the objective of the majority of those who migrated to New England during this period, yet there are others who place more emphasis on the religious factor as being the basic motive. The Puritans were deeply concerned with the recent reformation of the Church of England. They were called "Puritans" because they had definite ideas on further purifying the established church. In New England they saw an opportunity to adopt their own reforms without interference. It seems to me that the exodus to New England could be reasoned as having multiple benefits, and accomplish both church reform and also include economic advantages. For the younger emigrants the latter may have had the stronger appeal.

EARLY HISTORY OF REHOBOTH The First English Settlers The Seekonk area on the frontier of Plymouth Colony was not unknown territory, as there had been early attempts to settle there. The first known white settler within the limits of this area was William Blaxton, a non-conformist minister of the Episcopal Church of England. He had also been the first white settler in Shawmut (present Boston area) before the Winthrop fleet arrived in 1630. Blaxton sold his Shawmut land in 1634, and the following spring he moved to the territory later known as Rehoboth North Purchase, part of which is now Cumberland, R.I. His was an individual settlement. The first group settlement in the area was attempted in 1635/6 by . Having been banished from the Bay Colony, he journeyed in the freezing cold of mid-winter to Narragansett Bay. He located first on the eastern shore of the Pawtucket (now Seekonk) river, about four miles south of William Blaxton. He started building and planting, but was soon notified by Governor Winslow that he was within the limits of the Plymouth Colony patent, whereupon he moved across the river and founded the town of Providence in the summer of 1636. Near the place where Roger Williams first tried to settle, the second group settlement was made about 1638, by a small group of Charlestown men. Apparently they purchased the Indian village of Seekonk, "eight miles square," from the Sachem Ousamequin (). However, they were unsuccessful in founding a perma­ nent township. The settlement was broken up in 1640, although a 4 HISTORICAL SKETCHES few of the settlers remained and were later absorbed in the Newman settlement. The Newman Settlement 1643 The decision to make a settlement at Seekonk appears to have resulted from religious difficulties that Rev. Samuel Newman and his church members encountered in Weymouth. Rev. Newman was a well educated man and a brilliant scholar. He graduated from Trinity College, Oxford, at the age of eighteen. He commenced his ministry in England, preaching the doctrines of John Calvin. The antagonism of the episcopal clergy of the Church of England had compelled him to move no less than seven times, and finally he came to New England. He preached in Dorchester for about two years, then in 1639, he became pastor of the church in Weymouth and was given land on which to settle. Weymouth (originally named Wessagusset) was the first permanent settlement in Boston Bay, the first settlers arriving there in 1623. Most of the original families in Weymouth were adherents to the Spiritual beliefs of the Church of England. Later arrivals held various other tenets and the result was much internal dissension in the church. During these early years there was almost constant tumult. A succession of ministers failed to unify the church. In 1637 and 1638 there were four claimants to the pulpit, each with sincere but different religious doctrines. Rev. Samuel Newman had been summoned to unite the divergent beliefs but found the troubles too serious for his powers. He was unable to convert the earlier members to his views. He had devoted followers among some of the later members but this group was not large enough to prevail and his church remained stubbornly divided. After four unpleasant years in Weymouth, Rev. Newman, with about nineteen Weymouth families and other families from Hingham and elsewhere, migrated to Seekonk in 1643. In addition to his ministerial duties, Rev. Newman was engaged in revising the first edition of his Concordance to the Bible. This was a major project requiring much of his spare time. It was therefore desirable, and in fact necessary, that others handle the procedures in acquiring a new location for the church. Among his church members were several influential and wealthy men who were the real leaders in forcing the move to form a new church in a new township. Richard Wright was probably the most influential member, and he became the most active leader of the movement. He had come to New England in HISTORICAL SKETCHES 5

1630 in the first fleet with Governor Winthrop, and he played an important part in the forming of the . He lived first in Saugus (Lynn), later in Boston, and then in Braintree. He was a staunch member of Rev. Newman's church. Other leaders who joined in the movement to leave Weymouth were William Chees­ borough and Alexander Winchester of Braintree, and Walter Palmer of Charlestown. The proprietors of the Newman settlement may have made some arrangement to take over the title of the Seekonk lands from the remaining Charlestown men of the second group settlement. On the other hand, knowing that the settlement was unauthorized by the Plymouth Court, they may have considered any such title as being illegal and void. It appears that in 1641 the same tract of land, "eight miles square," was again purchased from Ousamequin, who would not object to selling the same land more than once. It was purchased for Plymouth Colony in the name of Governor William Bradford by John Brown and . This 1641 deed of purchase is not on record, but is confirmed by a quit claim deed dated June 1, 1668 which King Philip, Ousamequin's son, gave to the selectmen of Rehoboth. The exact date of the beginning of the Newman settlement at Seekonk is not in existing records. A majority of the original proprietors were in possession of their home lots and sufficiently established to do their planting in the spring of 1643. Early that year the Seekonk settlers held a meeting and adopted the following rules to determine the size of home lots and the method of evaluating the individual estates. It was agreed upon yt the lnhabytantes of Seekonk [ ] . Imps for house lottes to be of these sorttes, the on to be twelve apeece [another] to be eight akers apeece, the other sort six acres appeece. 2. That there shall be nine men chosen to order the setling pruden[cial] afairs of the plantation who shall have power to dispose of the [estates] 12 : 8 or 6 acres as in their dischression they think the quality of estate of the persons doe requier. 3. That all the other lottes be divided according to person and estate. 4. That all manes pper goods or lands in this country regarde to [ shall be counted estate in divisions of lands. 5. That one person is to be valued at twelve pound sterling [in division] of lands. · 6. That no man is to sell his Improvement but to such a on as [the nine men] shall approve of. 6 HISTORICAL SKETCHES

7. The meeting house shall stand in the middle of the town. 8. That such Persons as shall take up lots within the limits and do not as yet possess them or Improve them shall notwithstanding be liable to pay such Rates or Duties as shall be nessessary to be paid for the good of the Plantation in case they shall [ ] and justly imposed either with the nine men or such as shall belong to the same busniss. The original record of these rules is on page 31 of Rehoboth Town Meetings Book I. They were copied, with some minor deviations, into the Proprietors' Meetings Book, page 3, in 1730 when the town voted to keep separate records for town meetings and for the Proprietors of the common and undivided lands. Evaluation of Estates In accordance with the above rules, each proprietor brought in the value of his estate by totalling the value of all his personal property and real estate in this country, plus E 12 for each person in his family. The original return of values was recorded in 1643 or 1644 in Rehoboth Town Meetings Book I. Unfortunately the two pages listing the proprietors and their estates are now in very poor condition, so that a complete listing of the original proprietors can no longer be taken from this source. However, in 1660 or shortly thereafter, when the town started to compile a new book of land records in compliance with an order from the Plymouth Court, the original list of proprietors was transcribed into Rehoboth Land Records Book I, pp. 1 and 2, with the addition of the names of the then current owners. This list is quoted at the end of this chapter. It shows 58 proprietors (including the schoolmaster, the teacher, and the pastor), with total estates of E 11,175. The wealthiest man was Richard Wright with an estate of E 834; followed by John Brown with E 600; Stephen Paine with b 535; Joseph Peck with E 535; William Cheesborough with E 450; Walter Palmer with E 419; etc. There were 29 proprietors with estates valued between E 101 and E 400, and 23 proprietors whose estates were valued between E 50 and E I 00. This original list of estate values was the basis on which the 6, 8, and 12 acre home lots were assigned. Commonage Rights The value of his individual estate was the proprietor's proportional share or Rights in the common and undivided lands in the original "eight mile square" township of Seekonk (Rehoboth). They were HISTORICAL SKETCHES 7 called Commonage Rights. As the Rights could be bought and sold, the number of proprietors was constantly changing. By purchase of Commonage Rights, some of the small estates became comparatively large. The Rights were passed on from the fathers to their sons and daughters thus dividing the original family holding into several smaller values. As time went on, there was less common land left to divide, and the value of Commonage Rights decreased. The last division of common lands was made April 10, 1792, wherein 137 proprietors received 200 square rods (1 ¼ acre) of land for I::; 100 in Rights. In the following chapters on the earlier generations of Fullers, frequent references to Commonage Rights will occur. Location of Home Lots Prior to assigning each proprietor his home lot ( 6, 8 or 12 acres), the general location for the settlement was selected after a careful study of the large "eight mile square" Seekonk area. An outstanding characteristic, which must have influenced their decision, appears to have been the large area of flat land known as the Seekonk great plain. In a section of the plain where there was a U-shaped bend in the Mill river, (later called the Ten Mile river), the proprietors laid out a central common in the shape of a parallelogram, approximately 7 /8 of a mile long by 1/2 mile wide. This common was called the "Ring of the Green" or "Ring of the Town," and contained about 300 acres. ( a) Long narrow home lots were laid out with the front end butting on the Ring of the Green. The other end of most lots butted on the river, thus giving the settlers an ample supply of river water. The owners of all the home lots were required to fence the front end, thus making a continuous fence around the perimeter of the Ring of the Green. Their cattle and horses were allowed to pasture within this area. The meeting house was built a few years later and located about in the center of the common as originally agreed. The total area of land taken up by the home lots of the 58 proprietors was something over 500 acres. This land, plus the area of the common, was only about one percent of the total acreage of the town.

(a) Due to changes in boundary lines of Rehoboth, this original Ring of the Green is now in the Rumford district of the town of East providence, R.I., and is bounded by the present highways of Hoyt Avenue on the north; Pawtucket and Bishop Avenues, east; Pleasant Street, south; and Greenwood, Elm, and Bourne Avenues, west. Cf: Richard LeBaron Bowen, Early Rehoboth, Vol. II, p. 30. 8 HISTORICAL SKETCHES

Each settler had his home lot which was more land than he could immediately plow and cultivate. He had to build his house and at the same time raise the corn, peas, and other vegetables necessary for his family. His household depended solely on its fireplace for cooking and heat, so that an abundant supply of firewood was also a necessity. Accordingly, the next division of common land was for wood lots, which appears to have been made in July 1643. Additional Land Divisions It was also of great necessity for the settler to obtain a supply of hay and grass for his cattle and horses. At first there was plenty of nearby grassland, but as the herds increased more land was needed. On June 9, 1645 lots were drawn for fresh meadow land, and on February 18, 1646 lots were drawn for salt meadow. A proprietor who originally held -b 100 in Commonage Rights would then have acquired a total of about 21 acres, including the six acres of his home lot. No further division of the common lands was made for twelve years when additional meadow land was drawn. Other divisions followed at rather infrequent intervals for many years until practically all of the land of any value in town had been allotted to individual proprietors. The original records of the early land divisions will be found in the Rehoboth Town Meetings Books, later copied into the Proprietors' Meetings Book. The participation of the Fullers in these early divisions will be described in following chapters. The Question of Jurisdiction When the Seekonk settlement was made in 1643 it had the strong backing and approval of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The leaders of the Seekonk settlement were loyal Massachusetts Bay men, as were virtually all of the original proprietors. However, Plymouth Colony asserted its claim to this territory which clearly appeared to be within their patent. The proprietors of the new settlement, for about two years, considered themselves independent of the juris­ diction of either colony, but this was not to be the eventual outcome. Massachusetts Bay and Plymouth submitted the question of jurisdiction to the Commissioners of the United Colonies of New England for a decision. At their meeting of September 5, 1644, held at Hartford, it was ruled that Seekonk was within the jurisdiction of Plymouth Colony, unless the Bay Colony could produce additional evidence before September 1645 which would reverse the decision. HISTORICAL SKETCHES 9

On June 5, 1645, three months before the September meeting of the United Colony Commissioners, the Plymouth General Court passed an act: "that Seacunke be called Rehoboath." (b) It seems that Plymouth had little doubt about retaining jurisdiction. Their foresight was accurate because when September 1645 arrived, Massachusetts Bay Colony had produced no additional evidence. Rehoboth remained in Plymouth Colony although this jurisdiction may not have been preferred by many of the inhabitants. Rehoboth Townsmen Chosen In the meantime it became necessary for the proprietors to organize their local government, as there were numerous matters requiring the decision of a board of Townsmen. At a general meeting of the town held December 9, 1644, the first group of nine Townsmen were chosen. These men were: Alexander Winchester William Smith Richard Wright Stephen Payne Henery Smith Richard Bowen Edward Smith Robert Martin Walter Palmer The term of office for this board was to be for six months. On June 9, 1645 another election was held, but only seven Townsmen were chosen, for reasons riot on record. The following were elected "to order the prudentiall affaires of the town for halfe a yeare": Mr. John Browne, Sen. Stephen Payne Richard Wright Walter Palmer William Cheesborough Mr. Alexander Winchester Edward Smith John Browne, Senior, chairman of this new board, had been living in Cohannet (Taunton). By vote of the previous board of Townsmen, taken on December I 0, 1644, he and seventeen others had been ordered either to move into Seekonk or forfeit the lands which had been laid out for them. John Browne complied with the order and took a prominent part in the affairs of the town up to the time of his death in 1662. He was an influential man in the Plymouth Court, for many years being a Governor's Assistant and a local ~.fagistrate. He

(b) Plymouth Colony Records - Laws, Vol. XI, p. 46. 10 HISTORICAL SKETCHES

was also Commissioner for Plymouth Colony to the United Colonies of New England for several years. He held the second largest estate in Rehoboth with Commonage Rights of b 600. John Browne became the leading man in Rehoboth when Richard Wright left town. Disappointed Proprietors Leave Rehoboth Richard Wright had been chosen the first "Committee" (later called deputy) to represent Rehoboth at the Plymouth General Court. He was so greatly disappointed in the decision of the United Colonies in placing Rehoboth under Plymouth Colony instead of Massachusetts Bay that he refused to go to Plymouth. On October 28, 1645, the Plymouth Court fined him b 20 for his refusal to attend.(c) The last time that Richard Wright's name appears in the Rehoboth town meeting records is for the December 26, 1645 meeting of the seven Townsmen. This was the meeting which voted that the house lot and other lands laid out to John Sutton be forfeited to the town and divided between Robert Fuller and William Devell.( d) Shortly after this meeting Richard Wright left Rehoboth, apparently going back to England, but he later returned to live in Boston. Two -0f Wright's daughters, with their husbands (William Sabin and Robert Sharpe) remained in Rehoboth, raised their families, and ultimately came into possession of most of Richard Wright's extensive land holdings there. William Sabin took over the corn mill which Wright had built on the Mill river. William Cheesborough also moved back to Massachusetts Bay, and thus was dropped from the Rehoboth board of Townsmen. There may have been one or two others to leave town, but the jurisdiction decision was not of such great importance to most of the settlers. Dissension in the Rehoboth Church Rehoboth had been settled three years when it was voted on October 8, 1646, to raise money by taxation to build a meeting house. The project was not pushed very actively as it was about two years before construction of this little church was completed. It was probably no larger than 16 x 20 feet, but was later enlarged several times until 1680, at which time it was replaced with a new building

(c) Walter Pahner was then chosen and sworn in as Deputy. (d) Richard Bowen, who was Robert Fuller's father-in-law, was not on this board which voted half the Sutton land and Commonage to Robert. HISTORICAL SKETCHES 11

26 x 40 feet.( e) Small as the original church was, it was large enough for there were only 23 members at that time. Church membership was restricted to men although their families were expected to attend worship. Nearly half of the church members were leaning toward Baptist doctrines. Rehoboth, by its proximity to Providence, had many opportunities to observe the religious toleration of Roger Williams who had organized the first Baptist church in America there in 1639. Rev. Newman again was unfortunate in having a divided church. The specific cause of his troubles was Obadiah Holmes, a sincere believer in the Baptist principles. In 1649, Holmes and eight other members withdrew from Rev. Newman's church to establish a separate church embracing the tenets of the Baptists, particularly the right to worship God according to one's own conscience. This was the first Baptist church formed in Massachusetts. Mr. Holmes was chosen as their minister. The group was soon in trouble with other clergymen of the Colony as well as the civil authorities; even the government of the Massachusetts Bay Colony lodged a petition in court against them. Obadiah Holmes, who had been excommunicated from the Salem Congregational Church in 1646, was now excommunicated from the Rehoboth Congregational Church by Rev. Newman. In October 1650, a bill of indictment against the group of Rehoboth Baptists was found by a Plymouth Grand Jury, but Mr. Holmes and most of the others solved their problem by moving to Newport, R.I. They joined the Baptist church there and two years later Mr. Holmes became their minister. The church problems and doctrinal differences in Rehoboth were not quieted by the removal of Mr. Holmes. Much of the discipline and some of the tenets of the Congregational church were distasteful to some who kept their membership but were far from being wholehearted worshippers. Those leaning toward the Baptist beliefs were gradually increasing. In 1665 they were strengthened by the arrival in Rehoboth of Rev. John Myles with part of his church membership from Swansea (Wales) England. Rev. Myles promptly attempted to organize another Baptist church in Rehoboth. This action was, of course, offensive to the Congregational church of the

(e) Cf: Bowen's Early Rehoboth, Vol. IV, p. 40. 12 HISTORICAL SKETCHES town as well as to the other churches in the colony. ( f) The Court at Plymouth fined each member of Rev. Myles' Baptist group b 5, and prohibited them from worship for one month. The Court also advised their removal from Rehoboth to some place where they might not prejudice the existing church. (g) Swansea is Founded by the Baptists On March 5, 1667 /8, the Plymouth General Court approved a new township at Wannamoisett (a part of Rehoboth), and certain adjacent areas, all of which became the township of Swansea. Here the Rev. Myles' Baptist church found freedom to resume activity. The leaders in the establishment of Swansea (h) were all Baptists as well as being the top officials and most influential men of Rehoboth. Stephen Paine, Sr., James Browne (son of John), and John Allen, Sr., made up Rehoboth's first board of Selectmen. They had been chosen by the Townsmen June 26, 1666. As soon as Swansea was organized they were removed from their town office in Rehoboth. Thus the full control of the Rehoboth church, and consequently the town, went back into the hands of Congregationalists and remained there for many years. Rev. Noah Newman In March 1667 /8, Rev. Noah Newman (son of Rev. Samuel) was ordained the fourth minister of the Rehoboth Congregational Church. He was the religious teacher of the Rehoboth people for ten years. The town built and gave him a house in 1668, which was probably the largest and best in Rehoboth at that time. During King Philip's war it served as the principal of four garrison houses in the area and was the town's military headquarters. Many of the important military commanders met there to plan their campaign strategy. The Rehoboth town meetings also were held there during the war. Rev. Newman was thoroughly knowledgeable of people and

(f) Rev. Samuel Newman died July 5, 1663. He was succeeded by Rev. Zachariah Symes, who however, was in poor health and could only partially carry on his duties. Rev. Myles, although a known Baptist, was employed to lighten Rev. Symes duties by preaching every other week. This of course, was not satisfactory, and Rev. Myles was dismissed. (g) Plymouth Colony Records, Vol. IV, p. 162. (h) Shortly after Swansea was organized, it was voted to divide and proportion the common lands according to three ranks. Persons of the first rank were to have three acres; the second rank would have two acres; and those of the third rank one acre. A committee of "fust rank" officials decided the rank to which each inhabitant was classified. This method of proportioning land allotments was not used elsewhere in New England, and was abolished in Swansea after being in effect for nearly 25 years. HISTORICAL SKETCHES 13 events. His advice and counsel was undoubtedly sought by both the military and the civil authorities. His guidance carried the Rehoboth people through the days and nights of the war when a courageous leader and sympathetic counsellor was sorely needed. He died in 1677. Events Leading to King Philip's War Much has been written concerning the events leading up to the Indian war which is known in history as King Philip's war. The war itself has been covered in much detail in several excellent books, some of which are listed in the bibliography. It was the most severe of all the Indian wars of colonial days. King Philip was the planner, organizer and leader of this war which united many of the Indian tribes against the English. Philip, whose Indian name was , was the younger son of Massasoit, Sachem of the tribe. Massasoit was a good friend of the English settlers during his lifetime and sold them much of his land including the Rehoboth area. He died in 1662 and his oldest son Wamsutta (named Alexander by the English), became Sachem. In less than a year, however, Wamsutta died from a fever. The leadership then passed to Philip. Philip saw the ever-growing power of the white men, brooded on that which was past, and tried to surmise what was in the future for his people. He felt a growing concern over the increasing indications that their own way of life was slowly but surely being undermined by the English. Basic to the problem was the fact that the English were gaining more and more control over the lands which once belonged to the various Indian tribes. The greatly reduced territory of the was only one case of many where the white men had pushed the Indians aside and fenced them out of their former land. In addition to taking their lands, which was clearly realized by the Indians, the English tried to make them live under English laws, and to convert them to the white man's religion. Both of these latter efforts were incompatible with the Indian way of life. Philip doubtless realized the alternatives were total submission to the English or a war to drive them from the country and restore the land to the Indians. His mind dwelt upon the possibility of uniting all of the Indian tribes for a powerful attempt to crush the English. He secretly conferred with other tribal leaders and formed an alliance with many of the tribes of New England. 14 HISTORICAL SKETCHES

The number of Indians in southern New England at that time can not be accurately determined, but has been estimated at about 20,000. (i) The English population has been estimated at nearly twice that number, viz., Massachusetts Bay 16,000; Connecticut 10,000; Plymouth Colony 5,000; about 3,000, making a possible total of about 34,000. (j) It is doubtful that Philip knew the Indians were so heavily out-numbered. In any event his mind was filled with a single purpose. On June 23, 167 5, in Swansea, just across the line from Rehoboth, the opening shot was fired by a boy twenty years old when, at the order of his father, he shot and killed a pilfering Indian. The next day a band of Philip's Indians attacked Swansea, killing the boy and his father and a number of other inhabitants, thereby precipitating the war which became a struggle for the survival of the English race in New England. During the following fourteen months of the war, much of the action took place in and near Rehoboth. It was the concentration point for some 700 Massachusetts and Plymouth Colony troops who gathered there to commence their march against the Narragansett Indians, which ended in the Narragansett Great Fort Fight on December 19, 1675. Other troop concentrations took place in Rehoboth during the war. Robert Fuller and his family witnessed and participated in these critical months. How this war affected Robert and his son Samuel is described in Chapter III.

(i) Douglas E. Leach, Flintock and Tomahawk, Chapter 1. (i) Richard LeBaron Bowen and his Early Rehoboth, Vol. I, Chapter 1, has a detailed and scientific computation of the probable population in the year 1675 of the three colonies, Massachusetts Bay, Plymouth, and Connecticut. HISTORICAL SKETCHES 15

VALUE OF ESTATES Rehoboth Land Records, Book I

E- s d 1. Mrs. Bur (Rich Ingram accepted in her place) 100-00-00 2. Widdow Walker 50-00-00 3. John Read 300-00-00 4. John Cooke (wch still is in the townes hands) 300-00-00 5. The Schoohnaister 50-00-00 6. Will Cheesbrook 450-00-00 7. Mr Winchester 195-00-00 8. Richard Wright 834-00-00 9. Mr Newman 330-00-00 10. Will Smith 196-10-00 '11. Walter Pahner 419-00-00 12. James Clark now John Perrums 71-00-00 13. Ralph Shepard now James Redeways 121-10-00 14. Zachariah Reads 50-00-00 15. John Mathews 50-00-00 16. JohnPerrum 67-00-00 17. John Millar 69-10-00 18. Samuel Butterworth 50-00-00 19. George Kendrick 50-00-00 20. Abram Martin 60-10-00 21. The Teacher 100-00-00 22. Edward Sarle 81-00-00 23. John Browne 50-00-00 24. MrHowward 250-00-00 25. Mr Peck 535-00-00 26. Obadiah Hohnes now Robert Wheatons 100-00-00 27. Edward Smith 252-00-00 28. Job. Lane now Robert Abells 50-00-00 29. Thomas Hitt 101-00-00 30. James Walker now John ffitches 50-00-00 31. Thomas Blyss 153-00-00 32. The Governors Lott now Richard Bullocks 200-00-00 33. Isaack Martin now Thomas Wihnots 50-00-00 34. Robert Morris 94-10-00 35. Edward Bennet now Rich. Bowens Junior 184-10-00 36. The Pastor 100-00-00 "37. Mr Henry Smith 260-00-00 38. Mathew Pratt 236-00-00 39. John Meggs 120-00-00 40. Thomas Clifton now Stephen Paynes Junior 160-00-00 16 HISTORICAL SKETCHES

I:, s d 41. Joseph Tory now John Pecks 134-00-00 42. Tho. Cooper 367-00-00 43. Robert ffuller 150-00-00 44. John Allen 156-00-00 45. Ralph Allen 270-00-00 46. Edward Gillman now Joseph Pecks 306-10-00 47. Tho: Houlbrook 186-10-00 48. Will Carpenter 254-10-00 49. John Houlbrook now Nicholas Ides 83-10-00 50. Robert Titus now Robert Jones 156-10-00 51. Will Sabin 53-00-00 52. Stephen Payne 535-00-00 53. Mr Browne but now three hundred & the other I:, 300 600-00-00 comonidg was given to Capt Willet by the towne the 28 of the 12 month 1660. 54. Edward Patteson now John Woodcocks 50-00-00 55. Peter Hunt & one hundred pound more added to it 327-00-00 afterwards by the consent of the Towne. 56. Robert Martin 228-10-00 57. Robert Sharp but now Rice Lenerds 106-00-00 58. Richard Bowen 270-00-00

This listing of estates was not dated but was probably done a few years before the new book was completed and approved by the town in 1668. Most of the above proprietors were on the original list of estate values made in 1643 or 1644. The original list is in Rehoboth Town Meetings, Book I, but is faded and difficult to read and part of one page has been torn off. CHAPTER II

ROBERT 1 FULLER ca 1616 - 1706

Robert's Arrival in America The probability that Robert Fuller of Salem came to America in 1638, appears to be the result of research by Francis H. Fuller of Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts. ( a) That he came on the ship "Bevis" appears to have been first pl'!blished in 1898 by Newton Fuller of New London, Connecticut in his Fuller Memorial. His opening paragraph states: "Robert Fuller of Salem, according to the best evidence at our command, came from Southampton, England, in the ship Bevis, in the year I 638." Neither of these assumptions is documented, which is unfortunate, as both of these writers were experienced genealogists, and we believe that they must have had a reasonable source on which to base their statements. The "Bevis" is on record as making one voyage to America, sailing in May 1638 from the port of Southampton, but the published list (b) of about 60 passengers does not include any Fuller. There is, of course, the possibility that Robert worked for his passage across as an ordinary sailor, in which case his name would not have been on any list of

(a) Cf: Genealogical Biographical Society, Vol. 33, p. 172. (b) In his Topographical Dictionary of 2885 English Emigrants to New England, 1620-1650, by C. E. Banks, there is no Robert Fuller listed. Neither is his name in John C. Hotten's Original Lists ofPersons of Quality from Great Britain to the American Plantations from 1600 to 1700. On page 298 is the "Bevis" passenger list.

17 18 ROBERT1 FULLER passengers. In his Planters of the Commonwealth, C. E. Banks states that in 1638 Governor Winslow ceased to record arrivals of ships, but about September 1st he recorded that more than 20 ships came over during the summer with at least 3,000 persons. Robert could have been one of this large group of unrecorded emigrants. Early Years in Salem The earliest record of Roberti Fuller in Massachusetts is in Salem Town Records, Book I. The selectmen met on November 18, 1639, and on the record of this meeting is found this entry:

Robert ffuller desires accomodation, 5 acres to plant. The record does not tell us whether or not the selectmen granted his desire. It is very probable that they did, as they approved many many requests for land during these early years when there were many new arrivals in town. In his History of Salem, Vol. II, p. 74, Sidney Perley states: "At this meeting was the first appearance of Robert Fuller." A list of the first settlers of Salem to 1651, published by J. B. Felt in his Annals of Salem, includes Robert Fuller and the date 1639. This is a list of those settlers who were not members of the First Church of Salem. The names of the church members to 1650 are on a separate list, but Robert is not included. These two lists of the early settlers have been corrected and revised by J. D. Phillips in his Salem in the 17th Century, but no change was made regarding Robert. The lists were made from early town and church records. They include the first period when Robert was living in Salem. An extensive list of freemen is published in Massachusetts Bay Records, and in Vol. II, p. 378, is recorded: made free the 2th 4th mo 1641 Robrt ffuller Willi: ffuller(c) It is not stated that this was Robert of Salem. ( d) The fact that he was not included among the church members by J. B. Felt raises an interesting question. A freeman had the privilege of being allowed to vote and to hold public office, but others could not. At that time

(c) William Fuller is on record as coming to New England with his brother John in 1634. We have no direct evidence that they were related to Robert. (d) There is a possibility that this was Robert Fuller of Dorchester, later of Dedham, who is said to have come to New England about 1640. ROBERT1 FULLER 19 there was a rule that no one could become a freeman unless he was a member of the Congregational church. No one could be a member of the church except by consent of the minister. It seems probable, however, that the rule of the church membership was not rigidly enforced. Robert of Salem may have been one of the exceptions who obtained his freedom from the court, but was not yet accepted as a member of the church. We find Robert called as a witness in a case before the Salem Court held March 30, 1641 /2. The case is recorded in Quarterly Courts of Essex County, Vol. I, p. 25: Ruben Guppi to be severely whipped for running away to the Estward fro his wyfe great wth childe: for stealing & Blasfemie Lying & Swearing -- in complaint of wm Vincent. Robt Pease complained that Guppi had stolen his axe. or Collonell finds him to be a thief not only in stealing wood axes but Sargeant Dixie and others had seen a hen in Guppis breeches. Samuel Fuller ( e) & Robert Fuller testified that they went to Guppis house and Guppi said that he did not go to meeting and that the paring of his nails and a chip were as acceptable to God as the day of thanksgiving. He also swore. There is one more item in early Salem records concerning Robert: The 4th of the ffirst moneth (March) 1643, at a pticular meeting of the seven men: Graunted to Robert ffuller 20 acres of Land at Jeffryes Creeke to be layed out by the Towne, if he dwell there, otherwise to desert the Land.

Jeffries Creek is an inlet from the sea and is now known as Manchester harbor. A village was formed in the area in 1640 by 1 7 families, and Sc1lem people were invited to take up land and settle there. By order of the General Court in 1645, the area was to be called Manchester. The early records of Manchester are not in existence, but it seems certain that Robert did not accept this offer of 20 acres. Sidney Perley in his History of Salem, Vol. II, p. 156 and p. 174, states that he (Robert) "probably went away without coming into its possession." From evidence given later in this chapter, it appears that Robert was more interested in the new settlement at Rehoboth.

(e) This Samuel Fuller was perhaps one of the Samuels from Plymouth, either Dr. Samuel's son or Edward's son. There does not appear to have been any Samuel Fuller living in Salem at the time of this trial. 20 ROBERT1 FULLER

Robert's Marriage and Family The early Salem Vital Records do not tell us of Robert's marriage, nor the birth dates of his children. By means of other documentary evidence quoted later in this chapter, we know that Robert Fuller's wife was Sarah Bowen, daughter of Richard Bowen. It would be interesting to know where and when Robert first met Sarah. He might have known her in England. Possibly they came to New England on the same ship. It is perhaps more probable that he met her in Salem shortly after he arrived there, as the Bowens were in Salem before moving to Weymouth, and then in 1643 to Rehoboth. Robert and Sarah may have been married in Salem about the time he requested land for planting in November 1639. The names and probable birth years of Robert's children have been published by Newton Fuller in his Fuller Memorial as follows: Johnathan c. 1640 (24) Elizabeth c. 1645 (27) John c. 1647 (26) Samuel c. 1649 (24) Abigail c. l 653 Benjamin c. 1657 (27) The probable age of marriage is noted in parenthesis. They are consistent with usual ages of first marriage in those years, and accordingly furnish an approximate check on the birth years offered by Newton Fuller. In the case of Benjamin, we have a confirmation from the record of the Rowden court trial of November 3, 1680 in Salem. This trial is quoted later, but the fact that the record states "Benjamin Fuller, age about 22 years," puts the year of his birth at about 1657. In a deed dated May 28, 1696, Robert calls Jonathan his eldest son. Other deeds of Robert gives us the names of his sons John, Samuel, and Benjamin. Elizabeth is identified as Robert's daughter in the division of her Uncle William Bowen's estate in 1687 which is recorded in Bristol County Deeds Book 1, p. 67. We can find no direct or indirect confirmation of daughter Abigail. As we have no recorded birth of any of Robert's children, we can only assume that the first four were born in Salem and the last two perhaps in Rehoboth. Although it would be helpful to know the exact date and place of birth, it is not of essential importance in view of other facts we have concerning their later years. Rehoboth Vital Records, Book I, gives us the marriage dates for Jonathan, Elizabeth, John, Samuel, and for Benjamin's second marriage. ROBERT1 FULLER 21

Robert was a Bricklayer There is no doubt about Robert being a bricklayer (mason) by trade, as he is repeatedly so specified in legal documents. Prior to reaching age 21, he must have served an apprenticeship for a number of years. It seems highly probable that he would have completed his apprenticeship before coming to New England. We have to disagree with Newton Fuller's statement that he was the "first and only bricklayer in New England for many years." Salem had a source of good clay to make bricks, tiles, and earthen pots. The first brick kiln was in operation there in 1629. There were bricklayers in the Colony as early as 1630. At the first Court of Assistants held that year in Charlestown, the rate of pay for mechanics was fixed by an order to the effect that carpenters, joiners, sawyers, bricklayers, and thatchers should receive no more than two shillings a day. The order was repealed the following year, as it was found that it discouraged skilled labor which was not too plentiful. In Sidney Perley's History of Salem, Vol. I, p. 303, we find "Richard Adams and wife came from Northampton (to Salem) in the ship "Abigail" in 1635. He was a bricklayer by trade and 29 years old. He probably removed to Charlestown or Malden." The foregoing seems to be good evidence that the Bay Colony was reasonably well provided with bricklayers several years before the arrival of Robert in 1639. Early Years in Salem During his early years in Salem, when the town was growing rapidly, Robert doubtless had plenty of work building fireplaces, bake ovens and chimneys. Some would have been built of brick, but field stones were more commonly used. Foundations and cellar walls were also part of his work. Some houses were back-plastered on walls and ceilings with lime mortar to keep the house warmer. Much of his time was spent in gathering the bricks or stones and lime in preparation. A drag or sledge made of heavy planks and drawn by his horse, was a simple and practical method to transport his heavy materials. His trade required rugged strength as well as skill. Some of his customers might have paid him in currency, but by order of the General Court October 7, 1640, debts need not be paid in money, but could be paid in corn at 4 shillings per bushel, barley at 5 shillings per bushel, wheat and peas at 6 shillings per bushel, or in cattle, fish, or other commodities. For Robert, this was no hardship as he did comparatively little farming. 22 ROBERT 1 FULLER

Salem records from March 1643 through 1650 have no further items concerning Robert or his family. As will be seen later, his name begins to appear in Rehoboth records during this period and he was granted land there in 1645. He was probably dividing his time between Salem and Rehoboth, with work available in both towns. The decision to move his family from Salem may not have been an easy one for him to make.

Robert and Family Move to Rehoboth The earliest record indicating that Robert had actually moved with his family to Rehoboth is in Rehoboth Town Meetings, Book I. On page 14, the various ear marks of animals owned by some of the proprietors are listed and described. Robert is listed at the bottom of the page, which has been worn and torn so badly that only part of the original entry is readable. The page is titled: yeare 1651 ye markes of Beastes

The item concerning Robert reads: Robert ffuller his eare mark is ... (torn) & a slitt in ye right eare & the ... (torn) wch some call a spare mark.

In these early years, when all horses, cattle, and other animals were turned out to common pasturage, these ear marks were important as a means of identifying the owner. It was required that they be recorded with the Town Clerk. The day and month of the above entry is not given, but the year 1651 is the first list in which Robert's name is included. As the calendar year began in March, Robert could have been in Rehoboth in time to do his spring planting in 1651. There is also the possibility that he came in the summer or fall of 1650. Perley in his History of Salem Vol. II, p. 75, states "About 1650, Robert Fuller, bricklayer, removed to Rehoboth." By that time, Robert was well known by many of the settlers in Rehoboth. Since the settlement of the town in 1643, he had doubtless visited his wife's relatives, the Bowens. It is also probable that he had been employed by some of the settlers to build their chimneys and fireplaces. He did work for the town as early as 1645/6 as recorded in a list of town debts found on page 18 of Rehoboth Town Meetings Book I. ROBERT 1 FULLER 23

... 11th month (January) 1645 work Endepted by the town ...... (torn) ... t ffuller 1-2-6 Although the entry is dated January, the work was done some months previously. Robert probably charged two or two and a half shillings per day while working at his trade, in which case he worked about nine or more days for the town. The nature of the work done is not recorded. It was in December 1645, that he was granted land in Rehoboth by vote of the Townsmen. This is described in detail later in the section "Rehoboth Early Land Records Concerning Robert Fuller." Five or more years elapsed from the time he was given this land until he actually settled in Rehoboth. During this time he held his land by paying the taxes. He also built his house on his "home lot" at the southwest end of the "Ring of Green." Five years was a long time to delay his move from Salem, but he undoubtedly had more work to do at his trade in the Salem area than there was available in and near Rehoboth. In many respects, his wife Sarah and the children were better off and safer in the established town of Salem than they would have been in the limited facilities of a new and distant settlement. Ultimately, however, the time came to make the move. Much is left to the imagination in attempting to look back to 1650 and decide how a move of this magnitude would have been accomplished. The exact ages of the four children of Sarah and Robert are not known, but the oldest, Jonathan, was about ten, and Samuel the youngest, was about two years old. They had some furniture as well as their household goods and clothing to be moved. Cattle and other farm animals could have been sold before the move, but they would need their horses. The overland distance from Salem to Rehoboth is about 60 miles, but at best there were only Indian trails to follow, and such a journey would have been slow and hazardous. Salem was a busy seaport, and there were many sailing vessels available to travel around the Cape, as most of the inter-colony commerce was handled that way. This was the easiest and safest method for Sarah and the children, especially in good weather. The distance by water is about 200 miles. In any event, the journey was accomplished, and the family settled in Rehoboth for a quarter of a century. Sarah had Relatives in Rehoboth Sarah did not find herself wholly among strangers, as other members of the Bowen family were already well established in 24 ROBERT 1 FULLER

Rehoboth. Her father, Richardl Bowen, was among the first settlers, as were her sister Ruth and husband George Kendrick. Her brother Richard, not yet married, lived with his father and step-mother. Sarah's sister Alice and husband Robert Wheaton, had their home lot adjoining the Fullers. Her brother Obadiah and wife Mary also appear to have been living in Rehoboth about then. Robert goes to Plymouth Court At the annual election of town officers on May 14, 1652, Robert was chosen to be one of the two Grand Jurymen from Rehoboth. On June 2, 3, and 4, the Grand Enquest of 20 Jurors met at Plymouth, with Robert attending. Their proceedings are recorded in Plymouth Colony Court Orders, Vol. III, p. 9. They discussed numerous subjects and made twelve presentments. This same jury met again in Plymouth for six more sessions before it was discharged and a new group was elected June 7, 1653. At this June 1652 session of the Court, the names of several Rehoboth men, including Robert's, were placed before the Court of Elections to take up their freedom. Quoting from the record: Att the General Court of Elections holden att Plym for the Jurisdiction of new Plym the 3d of June 1652, Bradford, Gouvernor. The names of such as stand propounded to take up their freedom ... Robert ffuller .... Robert delayed taking the oath of fidelity at this time, and was again propounded at the General Court of Elections in 1655.

Robert's Land Recorded in 1652 In February 1652 Robert purchased most of William Devel's land and also his -b 7 5 of Rehoboth Commonage Rights. This made a total of -b 150 owned by Robert. At this time he held about 65 acres of land in Rehoboth and was well established as a proprietor. Shortly after his purchase from Devel, he recorded all of his land holdings and Commonage with the Rehoboth Town Clerk. Indian Complaints Robert was appointed to a special committee to deal with certain complaints made by the Indians. At the town meeting held on 2d of 11 month (January) 1652/3 ... "likewise Walter Palmer, Robert fuller and Henry Smith are intrusted to answer the complaynt against Ashemecom (Massasoit) and what charges that be att to be payd by ROBERT 1 FULLER 25 the towne." The nature of the complaint was not recorded. It appears to have been due to the horses or cows or other animals of the Rehoboth owners getting into the Indian's cornfields, resulting in considerable damage. At the town meeting held October 25, 1653, it was then "agreed on by the town that the Indians should have four pounds in wampum in recompence of the damage they have suffered in their corn by hogs and horses this two years."

Robert Becomes a Freeman in Plymouth Colony On June 8, 1655, Robert was again propounded to take up his freedom by the Plymouth Court.([) However, he again delayed in taking the oath of fidelity. The Rehoboth record of February 22,1657 /8 reads: "these men whose names are heare subscribed are accepted as the freemen of the town to take up their freedom, viz., ... Robert ffuller ... " (and eight others). Twelve years later, a list of Rehoboth men, 31 names in all, was recorded at Plymouth under date of May 29, 1670.(g) This was, in effect, a list of the voters in Rehoboth on that date. Robert was included. Considering the long delay of six years from the time his name was first proposed at the Plymouth Court in 1652, to 1658 when he was recorded by Rehoboth as one of the freemen, it would seem that Robert was hoping to exempt himself from public service by refusing to take the oath. As far as can be determined however, Robert was a loyal Congregationalist, and apparently believed that the oath of allegiance to the state conflicted with his allegiance to God and the church. He was not alone in holding this belief.It probably was the real reason for his delay in taking the lengthy formal oath after moving to Rehoboth. There were many other men who either refused to take the oath, or who took it reluctantly in order to be able to vote and participate in town affairs. Shortly after coming to the throne in 1660, Charles II ordered that qualifications of a freeman should be based entirely upon standards outside of church membership. Rehoboth Ordered to Prepare a Book of Land Records The divisions of the common lands made to the Rehoboth proprietors since the settling of the town in 1643, were causing an increasing number of boundary problems. Laying out the lots for the

ff) Plymouth Colony Court Orders, Vol. III, p. 78. (g) Plymouth Colony Records, Vol. V, pp. 278, 279. 26 ROBERT1 FULLER individual proprietors was not done by professional survey, but rather by committees of townspeople who did the best they could with limited equipment and experience. Apparently no official town records were made of the boundaries of individual allotments. Each proprietor knew about where his various tracts of land were located, and probably had boundary markers of a sort. Since the first division there had been changes in ownership of many lots. Some of the original owners had died or left town, which added further uncertainties to the ensuing boundary problems. The General Court at Plymouth took action on the matter in 1654, by ordering the town of Rehoboth to prepare a book of land records. Each tract of land was to be bounded and measured and set down in the record book under the owner's name. It was a difficult task to accomplish. It was not until the town meeting of November 12, 1655 that the town took formal action as follows: It was also agreed upon that these men whose names are heare expressed were chosen to settle lotts layd out as it may be least prejudicial both as to the generall & pticular Peter Hunt Robert ffuller Steven Payne Junior Richard Bowen Junior Henry Smith Nicholas Peck

More Meadow Land Acquired The need for meadow land reached a point where, at the town meeting held February 23, 1657/8, it was voted: that all the meadows lying on the north side of the town which were given and granted to the town by the Court, shall be laid out according to person and estate. At the same time those men who are here subscribed have promised to go and see what meadows they can find on the north side of the town: that they may notify our town to their best judgement what quantity there may be of it, and this they do freely on their own charge. This land, which later became part of the Rehoboth North Purchase, had been granted to Rehoboth by the Plymouth Court, but had not then been purchased from the Indians. However, the necessity for more meadow land was great, and in accordance with their promise made at the above town meeting, ten men agreed to go for two days each. William Carpenter agreed to go for three days, and Robert Fuller agreed to go for one day. Evidently the investigators reported favorably on their findings, as on June 22, 1658, lots were ROBERT1 FULLER 27 drawn by 49 proprietors for this meadow land, Robert drawing No. 45. Robert on Special Jury at Plymouth At the Plymouth General Court held March 1, 1658/9, a jury of fifteen was impaneled to render a verdict on the drowning of a Rhode Island man. Robert was No. 5 on the panel. Governor Thomas Prence presided. The jury reported as follows: Wee, whose names are underwritten, doe tes.ify, that Nathaneell West, a stranger to us, belonging to Road Hand, being by Gods providence amongst us, and being under cure of an infirmitie of his body, it appeers that hee had occasion to goe to Providence, and goeing upon the iyce, it brake, and hee fell in and was drowned: when his body was taken up, it appeered to us that his death was in noe way violent or wilfull, but accidentall as farr as wee apprehend. Mr. Joseph Peck, Mr. Stephen Paine, and Thomas Cooper were not att the takeing of him up; but when hee was brought to the towne, they found him to bee as above expressed, to theire best apprehensions. John Perrum and Gorg Kenericke did alsoe see him, and found as above mentioned. Phillip Walker, Cunstable Lieftenant Hunt John Read Roger Annadowne Robertt Fuller Robert Wheaton Anthony Perry Thomas Wilmoth Daniell Smith Edward Hall James Reddaway Nicholas Iyde John Martin Richard Bu11ocke Richard Bowen Town Debts Due Robert In Rehoboth Town Meetings Book I, pages 199 through 202, are listed names and amounts due for labor over a period of several years. These debts were approved for payment by vote of the town. The following amounts are listed as due Robert: Yearl653---t2- 4-0 Year 1658 - - - t O - IO - 0 Year 1655 - - - I:; 0 - 6 - 6 Year I 659 - - - -b O - 2 - 0 28 ROBERT1 FULLER

Tax Assessments Robert seemed to earn money almost every year by working for the town, and sometimes it was more than enough to pay for his taxes. As taxes could be paid with certain farm products, Robert in turn, was doubtless paid for his labor in wheat or corn at the fixed price per bushel. The first detailed tax assessment recorded in the Rehoboth Town Meetings Book I, was for a rate made the 22th of the 1 omo (December) 1657. Robert's tax was -b 0 - 4 - 4. The highest tax on this list was for 18 shillings and the lowest was for four pence. Although taxes were levied every year, and oftener on occasion, the amount levied against each proprietor was infrequently recorded in the Town Meetings Book. A detailed tax list was recorded on January 29, 1663/4 and shows Robert Fuller -b 0 - 4 - 6, which was only two pence more than his tax in 1657. The total tax to be raised in 1663/4wasb 16-9-10.

Land and Road Maintenance The town meeting held on March 14, 1659/60, voted on a number of items including the following: Item: John Perrum. George Kendrick, and Robert fuller is to burne the woods about the said fence and to be paid at the towns charge. The said fence was one between Mr. John Brown's land and the town land. Burning the "woods about the fence" was a periodic requirement voted at town meeting. The fence was the general fence around the "Ring of the Green" built by each proprietor along his own boundary line. At the town meeting held May 21, 1661, election of officers for the ensuing year was held. John Read and Robert ffuller were chosen way-wardens. They were thereby responsible for whatever maintenance the existing roads required, and for laying out new roads voted by the town. The early town records do not imply that this was a paid position. At the· April 2, 1662 town meeting it was time to burn the brush again, and it was voted: John Perrum & Robert ffuller were chosen to burne about ye ffence yt stands between the towne & the purchasers & to be done wth soth convenient speed as may be. ROBERT1 FULLER 29

Another Jury Case for Robert Att a Court of Assistants att Ply. 7 May I 661 A verdict of Jury ordered to bee recorded. (h) The 23d of the 12th 1660 -Fsons nominated by the Constable Mr. Joseph Pecke William Sabin Father Bowin Henery Smith Deacon Cooper Joseph Pecke Lieftenant Hunt John Perren John Read Robert fuller Richard Bowin Junir This jury haue heard what any _pson or _psons could euidence conserning William Day his being found in his masters barne dead: and they doe all in one voyce deliuer this in as theire verdict: that the forenamed William Day was a selfe murderer. Attested upon oath before mee this 7th Day of Aprill 1661 Thomas Willett

Second Group Appointed to Establish Boundaries The leading proprietors were becoming seriously concerned about the uncertainty of the boundary lines of the town itself as well as those of the individually owned tracts of land. The first group appointed November 12, 1655, appear to have acted only to settle specific boundary questions. There was much work still to be done to comply with the order of the Plymouth Court to prepare the new book of Rehoboth land records. At the town meeting held Aprii ye 20th, 1663: it was ordered yt Ensigne Smith should run the Lyne of the towne bounds and Joseph Peck and Nicholas Peck, Robert Fuller, William Carpenter, Jonathan Bliss, and Richard Bowen should assist him in the work and yt theay should begin the third week in May or before if theay see cause and if theay want more help theay are to have it. And Ensigne Smith is to have five shillings a day and the rest to have three shillings six pence a day This was a very definite and forceful instruction to ge_t the job done, and the town was willing to pay well to have it accomplished. However, as will be noted later, this group did not complete the task, and another group was chosen three years later.

(h) Plymouth Colony Court Records, Vol. III, p. 213. 30 ROBERT1 FULLER

Working on the town boundaries, Robert seems to have discovered something wrong with the boundaries claimed by John Allen for a tract of land at Palmers River. ( i) At the town meeting held on May 6, 1664, we find that: Robert fuller did openly protest against the Recording and bounding of John Allens Lands ... (illegible) ... wch Land Lyes at Plamers River, in his bounding it on the River, for Robert ffuller Challanges a propriety by the river syde wth in the said John Allens bounds as he hath recorded it in the new towne booke. In the completed Rehoboth Land Records Book I, which was accepted by the voters in 1668, the "Lands of John Allen Sr" are listed. Item 12 reads "My lot at Palmers River cont. seaventy two akers more or less bounded by .... " The boundaries are not recorded, and this may be the result of Robert's protest. It appears that John Allen refused to pay taxes on this undefined property, pending final agreement on the boundaries. The town took the matter to Plymouth Court, and on March 5, 1671, the Court decreed: Regarding Mr. Allins unpaid rate it is ordered by the Court that said Mr. John Allin of Swansey shall pay to Robert ffuller of Rehoboth the sum of thirty shillings ...." Two years previously, Robert as constable, had been responsible for collecting taxes in the Palmer River area, and apparently was unsuccessful in making a collection from Mr. Allen at that time. There is nothing on the record to indicate whether the boundary question was also settled to Robert's satisfaction.

Robert Named Overseer in Thomas2 Bowen's Will Thomas2 Bowen, son of Richard Bowen, died in Rehoboth in 1663. His will dated April 11, 1663, names his wife Elizabeth as executrix, and his "brother-in-law Robert Fuller," as one of the two overseers. This is further confirmation that Robert married Sarah, sister of Thomas Bowen. The will is quoted in full in Descendant, Vol. 16, p. 128.

(i) John Allen was one of the earliest settlers of Rehoboth. He held important offices, and was one of the first group of three selectmen elected in 1666. He was a Baptist and one of the leading men in founding the town of Swansea in 1667 /8. He was well-to-do, and appears to have held E 411 in Rehoboth Commonage, as well as one share in the Rehoboth North Purchase. He resided in Swansea and was a "first rank" proprietor of that town. ROBERT1 FULLER 31

Jury Called for Another Drowning Case Another jury verdict in which Robert participated is recorded in Vol. III, p. 83 of Plymouth Colony Court Orders. The jury was assembled at Rehoboth on August 7, 1664. Their verdict was: Wee, whose names are subscribed hereto, doe hereby signify to all _psons whom it may concerne, that Elizabeth Walker, the daughter of Phillip Walker, of the town of Rehoboth, was accidentally drowned: shee, being sent to scoole, was found Alsoe accedentally in the river first by two youthes; they makeing knowne the same to two wemen, the wife of Nicholas Iyde, and the wife of Roger Annadowne, then to William Sabin, whoe forthwith came and drew her out of the water, as hee saith. From the testimony of the afor specifyed _psons, together with other concurring cercomstances, wee the subscribers, conceive that the child, which was two yeares and an halfe old, before specifyed, came accedentally to her end. Stephen Paine, Senir Thomas Cooper John Read, Senir Peter Hunt John Perram Robert Fuller Anthony Perry Nicholas Pecke John Fitch Henery Smith John Butterworth Daniell Smith March I, I 664. The jury gave in this verdict upon oath before Josias Winslow, Assistant. It is of interest to note that a two and a half year old child was attending school, and was expected to walk there by herself. Robert Witnesses a Release of Indenture Robert Fuller, Thomas Southworth, and Nathaniel Southworth, on a document dated October 10, 1664, witnesses a release of Indenture of Thomas Morton and John Andrews who were bound to Nathaniel Warren. The document outlined method of payments, totalling -b 25 each, by Morton and Andrews. All of the men lived in Plymouth except Robert, who apparently was in Plymouth at that time on other business. Cf: Plymouth Colony Court Orders, Vol. IV, p. 78, for the rather lengthy text of this Indenture. 32 ROBERT 1 FULLER

Robert's Oldest Son, Jonathan, Marries The first of Robert's children to marry was his oldest son, Jonathan, who married Elizabeth Wilmarth on December 14, 1664. She was the oldest daughter of Thomasl and Elizabeth (Bliss) Wilmarth. The ceremony presumably was performed by Mr. Joseph Peck, as he had been appointed by the Plymouth Court to "administer marriage" at Rehoboth. In the early years of the colony ministers did not perform marriages.

Land Divisions Voted but not Executed A town meeting held February 14, 1664/5, voted in favor of another division of the common lands: ... agreed that there should be a Division of Lands Layd out fourthwith for the supplying of mens nessesities to ye value of twelve or fifteen hundred akers, wch the Committe shall think meete, as alsoe to see where it might be the most Convenient for the towns use&least prejudicial and the towne gave them power to see it performed. The Committe Chosen by the towne ware Stephen Payne Senr, Ensigne Smith, Nicholas Peck, William Sabin, Robert ffuller, Phillip Walker, Anthony Perry, Richard Bowen Junior, Jonathan Bliss. From the records, it does not appear that this division was laid out by this committee, because at the town meeting a year later, a new vote was taken and a new committee chosen. Perhaps the necessity for more land was not as urgent as certain of the voters thought, 9r the committee couldn't agree upon the location for this division. It seems more probable, however, that there was a determined minority who felt it was more essential to first define and bound all of the lands previously allotted to each proprietor before dividing out any more of the common land and thereby increasing the boundary problem. Although not stated in the records, Robert very possibly was one of a minority group which was against making further land divisions until the New Book of Land Records was completed and sent to Plymouth Court. It had then been over ten years since the Court had ordered Rehoboth to make up a new book of land records. There appears, however, to have been much pressure for another land division, and no difficulty in getting a majority of the proprietors to so vote. At the February 6, 1665/6 town meeting the matter was again voted on: ROBERT 1 FULLER 33

The Town being met together it was agreed by vote that Two thousand acres of Land should be Laid oute according to the Person & Estate for the supplying mens necessities. Leut. Hunt, Henery Smith, Nicholas Peck, Anthony Perry & Joseph Peck were chosen by the Town to se where the Land may be found as may be most conveanant to answer the Towns End and their shall be a Town meeting ye first Tuesday in April that those persons made Choice of may bring in their Return to the Town concerning the fore mentioned Land. It is to be noted that six of the men named to the previous committee, including Robert Fuller, were not reappointed to the new committee. These men were, in all probability, the minority group opposed to laying out a new division at this time. The new committee apparently took little or no action, and the proposed town meeting, scheduled for the following April is not on record. It was not a good time of the year for the committee to accomplish this task, as it would interfere with spring planting. To locate and lay out lots on two thousand acres would take a great deal of their time, and it should be noted that the town did not vote to pay them, nor the previous committee, to do this work. Three more years elapsed before a division of the common lands was actually made. In the meantime, the townspeople evidently became convinced of the necessity of completing the boundary records, and also decided that those who were to do the work should be paid. Another Boundary Committee Chosen The town meeting held March 23, 1666/7 resulted in the following action on this important matter: It was voted and agreed upon that the bounds of the towne shall be Layd out forthwth. Henry Smith, Wm Carpender, Joseph Peck & Nicholas Peck, Robert Fuller and Nicholas Ide were Chosen by the towne to doe it & to have 3s 6d a Day every man till the work be done and to begin the work the next second Day if the weather be seasonable after the date hearof. The Book of Land Records is Completed It appears to have been the work of this group of men who completed the project, and thus enabled the new book of land records to be finished and presented to the town for approval. This was done at the town meeting held May 13, 1668 and - It was votted and agreed upon that the New Booke of Records should be Recorded at plymouth this next June Court. 34 ROBERT 1 FULLER

The original book of Rehoboth Land Records, now at Bristol County Registry of Deeds, Taunton, contains about 550 parcels of land distributed among 58 proprietors, and also the lands allotted to the pastor, the teacher, and the schoolmaster. Land Dil'isions in the North Purchase Area At an earlier town meeting, April 10, 1668, it had been voted to lay out meadows in the North Purchase area, and a committee was chosen to do it. Lots were drawn May 26, 1668 by 76 proprietors, Robert drawing No. 55. Each share owner probably received about two or three acres of meadow. Another town meeting which voted for a land division in the North Purchase area was held March 1, 1668/9, and each full share owner received 50 acres. Robert drew No. 68. Robert Elected Constable The town meeting of May 13, 1668, which approved the new land record book for the Plymouth Court, also elected the town officers and made appointments for the ensuing year. Robert and his brother-in-law, George Kendrick, were chosen constables for one year. The Rehoboth elections were confirmed and approved: Att the General Court of Elections held att Plymouth the third Day of June, Anno Dom 1668, Prence Gour, Constables of Rehoboth - Robert ffuller George Kendricke In addition to their duties of keeping the peace, making arrests, serving warrants, etc., the constables were also the town tax collectors. Rates were made by the Townsmen, who gave the tax lists to the constables to collect. Three tax lists were made for the year 1668 and given to the constables for collection. There was a rate made the second day of July 1668, which amounts to the sum of t 15 delivered into the constables hand, viz. George Kendrick and Robert ffuller. There was a rate made the 9th of December 1668 ... oft 22-10-0, to answer the warrant for Country charges and delivered to Constables, viz. George Kenderick and Robert ffuller. There was a rate made by the Townsmen the 25 of December (1668) deliverecYunto Robert ffuller and George Kendricks hands the sume of t 11-19-4½ to be paid to Captaine Willett. ROBERT1 FULLER 35

Thus Robert and his brother-in-law were given three separate collections to make in less than six months. As taxes were mostly paid in farm products at prices set by the Townsmen, it meant measuring grain or appraising other commodities and cattle. In a few cases they may have handled currency. It is of interest to note that the May I 3, 1668 town meeting discussed the difficulty of transporting the Country rate, and a committee was chosen to file a petition with the Plymouth Court. The outcome was not recorded, but the fact that the problem of handling. the products offered in payment of taxes was the subject of town meeting consideration, indicates that both the collectors and also the town treasurer faced a growing problem. It was the duty of the treasurer to use the tax collections to pay the town debts. He doubtless had a varying storage and handling problem.

Robert's Accounting with the Town A list of debts owed by the town was approved for payment at the town meeting of April 6, 1669. One item reads: Rob. ffuller for one Jurney to Court - - t 0-12-0 George Kendrick may have gone with Robert, as he also was paid the same amount for "one Jurney to Court." There is no clue as to why this journey to Plymouth was made. The trip would have been about forty miles each way on horseback, in addition to the time spent at the court. Their first accounting of their tax collections is recorded in Rehoboth Town Meetings Book I, page 210: Robert ffuller and George Kendricke paid to Captaine Willet the sum of t 11-19-2; at Corne 3s ye Bushell upon the account of the 3 Barrels of porke for which they had a discharge ye 16th of December 1669. The next accounting was made with the Townsmen at their meeting held February 21, 1669 and - accounted wth Robert ffuller and George Kendricke, Constables in 1668, for ther rates, two Country rate and a rate made for the Captain Willett and all accounts balanced and the towne is in thire dept 7S: More, the towne in Rob. ffullers and George Kendricks dept for firkins & salt 45, the 11 sis to be paid to Robert fuler upon agreement. Another list of debts owed by the town was made under date of April 12, 1670 and included the following due Robert: 36 ROBERT 1 FULLER

Rob. ffuller: for going to Taunton: & firkins and salt E 00-08-06 Rob. fuller: for Lyming the walls and sealing over Head and Laying the Harthe, for washing and coullering, mending and pointing the seller -l:;04-04-00 Rob. fuller: for getting stones, and clay and making the backe oven t 01-01-00 Under "Debts for the ministers house" - Robert ffuller -1:, 02-18-8 The new house for the minister, which the town had voted to build, was given to Rev. Noah Newman in 1669. It was probably the largest and best in Rehoboth at that time. It became the principal one of four garrison houses, and was the town's military headquarters during King Philip's War. (j) It would appear from the above listed town debts that Robert did most, if not all, of the masonry work on this house. The Townsmen "reconed wth Robert ffuller and George Kendrick on the 15th day of December 1670 for the Town Rate and the house Rate and all accounts equaly Balanced." As this was two years after the tax year that they were responsible for collecting, it would seem that, even in those early years, all taxpayers were not equally prompt in paying, and the constables were not allowed to pass their uncollected items along to succeeding constables. An early list of Rehoboth taxpayers, dated February 7, 1670/1, is found in Rehoboth Rate Book II, page 2, and includes: Robert Fuller - - -I:; 00-05-09 Jonathan Fuller - -I:; 00-02-06 The tax rate was 3s 7d per -6 100, which sets the total valuation of Robert's property at about -6 164. Another Land Division Voted On February 21, 1670/ 1, the town voted to lay out undivided land at Wachamoket Neck. At this town meeting, Robert and others opposed laying out land in this part of town. The reasons for their dissent are not recorded. However, the majority of the voters approved the division and a year later, February 5, 1671/2, lots were drawn for this land at the Neck. In spite of his disapproval of the division, Robert took part in the drawing and drew No. 23. The amount of land per -6 100 of Commonage Rights was not recorded.

(j) Cf: Bowen, Early Rehoboth, Vol. IV, p. 28. ROBERT 1 FULLER 37

The list of debts owed by the town for 1671 includes: Rob. ffuller due him from the towne, t 00-11-00. The Proprietors Build More Fences There is no mention of Robert in the Rehoboth Town Meetings Book for the years 1672 and 1673. At the town meeting held on December 9, 1674, the town approved fencing for certain land areas, and allotted amounts of fence to be supplied or built by each proprietor. Robert was assigned 22½ rods. Three months later, March 10, 1674/5, more fence was allotted, this time to be built around the "plaine." Robert was assigned 15 rods. These fencing projects may have been activated because of threatening danger from the Indians, as well as to keep cattle from straying.

King Philip's War Starts The opening shot of King Philip's War was fired in the adjoining town of Swansea on June 23, 1675. The war spread quickly into the surrounding areas. During the war years, Rehoboth held its town meetings in the Newman garrison house. A meeting was held on May 11, 1676 for election of officers. Robert ffuller and Gilbert Brooks were chosen "Surveyors of the Highwayes." Their appointment was confirmed by the Plymouth Court on June 7, 1676. It is doubtful that they were able to carry out the ordinary duties of this position during their term of office, as the Indians had destroyed most of the property in the town. In Rehoboth Rate Book II, page 16, under the date of January 26, 167 6/7, it is recorded that Robert advanced E 4-10-3 to help in defraying the costs of King Philip's War. A total of E 570 was contributed by Rehoboth people.

Tragedies of the War In the year 167 6, Rehoboth suffered losses of many people and much property. There are 37 deaths recorded in Rehoboth Vital Records for 1676, but there were also an unknown number of deaths which were never recorded. Robert's family had a succession of deaths that year, beginning with the loss of his son-in-law Nehemiah Sabin, killed in May. Robert's sons Samuel and John were killed in August. It is probable that a daughter, Abigail, was also a victim of the Indians, although there is no record to confirm. Robert's wife 38 ROBERT 1 FULLER

Sarah was also presumed to have been killed by the Indians, and her death is recorded: Sarah ffuller ye wife of Rob. ffuller 14 Octob. 1676. Administration of Estates 1. Nehemiah Sabin. Inventory of Nehemiah's estate was taken June 1, 1676, and totalled E 39-15-06. (k) On June 7, 1677: The Court doth order and impower Leift Peter Hunt of Rehoboth, and Robert Fuller, together with the widdow Sabine to adminnester on the estate of Nehemiah Sabine, deceased. The widow Sabine was Robert's daughter Elizabeth. On April 1 7, 1678, she married Eleazer Wheelock of Medfield. Later they moved to Mendon, Mass., where she died January 11, 1688/9.

2. Samuel2 Fuller. Inventory of Samuel's estate was taken August 29, 1676, and totalled E 24-14-06. (I) On June 7, 1677: Adminnestration is graunted unto Robert Fuller and Nicholas Iyde Senir and Mary Fuller on the estate of Samuell Fuller. Mary evidently did not care to serve, as on July 3, 1677 a new order was issued: Letters of adminnestration was graunted unto Robert Fuller of Rehoboth and Nicholas Ide Senir, on the estate of Samuel Fuller of Rehoboth, deceas. 3. John2 Fuller. Inventory of John's estate was taken on November 16, 1676, and totalled E 32-15-06. (m) Robert did not administer his son John's estate. However, on October 26, 1676, about two weeks after his wife Sarah was buried, Robert deeded 50 acres of upland and a piece of meadow on the Ten Mile River to his grandson John3. to be his when he reached the age of 21. John3, was two years old when his grandfather Robert made the deed.

Military Service in King Philip's War The town records do not show that _B.obert or any of his four sons were drafted or enlisted for military duty during the war.

(k) Plymouth Colony Wills, Vol. III, p. 32 (l) Ibid p. 4 7 (m) Ibid p. 70 ROBERT 1 FULLER 39

However, every able-bodied man had a musket, was supplied with ammunition, and did guard duty at the garrison houses. Robert Returns to Salem Robert continued to live in Rehoboth for about a year after Sarah died. The first definite indication that he had left town is the November 13, 1677 town meeting record where Jonathan was instructed to write his father to see if his house could be used for a school that winter. In the Salem Town Records, Vol. II, p. 250, we find the first mention of Robert having returned to Salem: At a meeting of ye Selectmen ye 7th 11th (January) 1677 /8, Robert Fuller is admitted an Inhabitant Into this towne.

He Marries Margaret Waller Perhaps a factor in Robert's decision to return to Salem was widow Margaret Waller, whose husband, Christopher Waller, had died in 1676. Margaret was executrix of his will which was allowed in Probate Court on December 30, 1676. Perley in his History of Salem, Vol. II, p. 7 5, says Robert married Margaret about 1678. The exact date does not seem to have been recorded, but most probably was late in 1677 or early in 1678. The Wallers had no children. A grand niece, Mary Salmon, had been living with the Wallers since her father died in 1673. She was about nine years old when Robert and Margaret were married, and she continued to live with them until they went to Rehoboth about 1697.

The New Church in Rehoboth After his marriage to Margaret, Robert returned to Rehoboth sometime in 1678 to work on the second meeting house. He was paid t 1-18-00 for this work. The original church was too small as well as being in need of repairs. The larger, second church was started in 1674 but not finished until 1680. Robert Deeds his Rehoboth House and Land In 1679, Robert must have decided that he would not come back to Rehoboth to live, as he deeded his remaining Rehoboth land to his grandson Samuel, and to his youngest son Benjamin. These deeds are quoted in detail later in this chapter. The deed to young Samuel is dated May 20, 1679. Before deeding his home lot and house to son Benjamin, Robert had to settle a long-standing boundary dispute 40 ROBERT 1 FULLER with his former neighbor, Robert Wheaton, who was also his brother-in-law. The agreement made between the two Roberts, who had been neighbors for nearly thirty years, is quoted from Rehoboth Town Meetings Book II: An agreement made the 28th of ... (torn) ... 1679 Betwixt Robat Wheaton and Robert ffuller, both of Rehoboth in order to make the ending of a contriversie that hath ben longe between them Respecting the Bounds of thire home Iott, the said Ro bat Wheaton ingageing in the personne of Mr. James Browne and other neighbors: that betwixt this day and winter sets in he would pluk up his fence and set in it in the bounds where the thre stakes stands, and they both agreeing that those stakes shall be the bounds betwixt them: witness my hand the day and yeare above written. The marke of TI r~/ Robert Wheaton This was: acknowledged before me James Browne Assistant This is a true copey of the agreement betwixt Robert ffuller and Robert Wheaton Transcribed out of the original! By me William Carpenter Towne Clarke. With this boundary matter settled to his satisfaction, Robert proceeded with deeding his house and home lot, together with other land in Rehoboth, to his son Benjamin on December 1, 1679. Presumably Benjamin was about 21 at this time, and according to the deed was living in Rehoboth. He was single, and did not marry until 1686. Robert's Activities in Salem Robert was well known in Salem, and he quickly became involved in town affairs. He was admitted to membership in the First Church of Salem. There are two entries on the record of admissions: 1678, 11 Aug. G. Fuller from Rehoboth. (Probably "Goodman" Fuller, who would have been Robert). 1679, 10 Mar. Robart Fuller from Rehoboth.(n) Robert's name again appeared on the list of freemen of Salem, as he took the Freeman's Oath at Salem Court on December 30, 1680.

(n) The Essex Institute Historical Collections, Vol. 15, p. 78. ROBERT1 FULLER 41

Church membership no longer being a requirement to become a voter, this listing of freemen would be similar to our present day list of registered voters.

John Rowden 's Cattle in Robert's Corn Field A court case which was tried on May 11, 1680, involved Robert's wife Margaret, and his son Benjamin. It is recorded at considerable length "in Essex County Court Records, Vol. VII, p. 424. It appears that John Rowden's cattle were seen in Robert Fuller's field. Daniel Poole, age 25, testified that he saw them in the plowed land of Robert Fuller in the North field. Benjamin Fuller, age about 22 years, deposed that he was at work nearby and also saw the cattle in Robert's field. After listening to much questioning and the lengthy detail of several witnesses, "Margaret, wife of Robert Fuller, acquitted John Rowden of all damage done by his cattle," and the case was dismissed. John Rowden was a hard working farmer with a big family and had no money to pay a fine if the court had so ordered. He doubtless helped to repair any damage done.

Salem Jury Duty for Robert Atta Towne Meeting the 6: Novembr 1680 Chosen to Searve upon the grand Jury for ye yeare, Mr. Rob fuller ...." Six other men were also chosen at this time. The next court was held at Salem December 30, 1680. The names of the men on the Grand Jury of that court were: Ruck, Holmes, Eborne, Buxton, Ray, Rand, Bread, Freind, Bennett, Sibley, Briggs, Ensigne Fuller, and Robert Fuller. ( o) It is interesting to note that the surnames of the men associating with Robert on Salem juries are entirely different from those on the Plymouth Court juries. The court held in Salem on June 28, 1681, lists Robert Fuller and Ensigne Fuller among those on the Grand Jury. On the list of Grand Jurymen for the court held at Salem December 28, 1682 were Robert Fuller and Sergt Thomas Fuller. At the town meeting held November 1, 1684, Robert was again chosen to serve on the Grand Jury, but we cannot find that he actually served during this term.

(o) Essex County Court Records, Vol. VIII. p. 24. 42 ROBERT 1 FULLER

At a meeting of the Selectmen on August 23, 1686, a list of freeholders who were eligible for jurymen was recorded, having a total of 101 names. Included were: Rob ffuller Senyor Tho: ffuller Junor "Att a Towne meeting ye 16 - 9mo - 1691" Robert was again chosen to be one of the Grand Jurymen. This was the last year that he was so chosen, and the records do not show that he was called to serve. Thomas Fuller Thomas Fuller of Woburn and Salem held the titles of Sergeant, Ensigne, and in 1685 was called Lieutenant. He came to New England in 1638. He possibly was Robert's brother and they both may have come together on the ship "Bevis". Thomas Jived first in Woburn until 1663, when he purchased 300 or more acres in that part of Salem which is now Middleton. He married June l 3, 1643, Elizabeth Tidd of Woburn and they had nine children. He died in Salem in June 1698, at the age of 80 years, 2 months. His eldest son, Thomas Junior, referred to above, was born April 30, 1664. Robert Chosen Surveyor and Tithing-man "Att a meeting of the selectmen March 22th 1680/81; Chosen for Surveyors of the fences ffor the Northfeild Robrt ffuller & Wm Trask

Att a meeting of the Selectmen 1 Deer 81; Chosen for Tythingmen (Const Vzall Wardells devision)

Rob: fuller Wm Osburne There were six divisions in Salem, each headed by a constable, and each with two tithing-men. Robert lived in the Northfield section of the town which is now part of Peabody. The Brick Law The selectmen's meeting of May 8, 1682, voted: rnr Rob fuller & rnr Daniell Andrew are Chosen & hereby impowred to see the law Concerning brick fully attended. ROBERT 1 FULLER 43

There were several clay pits in the Salem area, and a brick kiln was in operation as early as 1629. The General Court passed a law in 1679 which read: Clay to make bricks shall be digged before the first of November and turned over in the months of February and March ensuing, a month before it is wrought, and that no person temper their bricks with salt water or brackish, and that the size of bricks shall be nine inches long, two and one quarter inches thick and four and a half inches broad, and that all moulds for making bricks shall be made according to their size, and well shod with iron. Apparently maintaining the legal standard for bricks was a problem, for again, five years later: Att a Generell Towne Meeting ye 11th Apriell 1687. Chosen mr Robert ffuller to haue Inspection into what Bricks are made in this towne yt they bee according to Law.

Robert Works for the Town of Salem In 1682, quoted in Essex Institute, Vol.39, p.244, as taken from Salem town records - Constable Jno Leach Cr. : "To pd Robt fuller for work on the Town house 0: 3: 6". The same amount is shown under the record of the sclectmen's meeting June 14, 1683, and this may be simply a confirming record. The only other payment to Robert in the town records is for work done on the roads: At a meeting of ye Selectmen ye 7 - 1oth - 1684, Acco of work on ye highway pr daniel Southerick overseer, Rob:ffuller 1½ day 0: 03: 0.

Salem Taxes The Salem tax list of November 23, 1683, lists Robert as being taxed 2 shillings, and his son Benjamin also taxed for 2 shillings. This tax was for the "country rate". The tax for the "ministers rate" was about three times as much. The complete country rate tax list for 1683 is published in Perley's History of Salem, Vol.III, p.419. There are about 500 taxpayers on this list.

Robert Witnesses Wills Robert Fuller, Nathaniel Felton (his brother-in-law), and William Orme were witnesses to the will of Anthony Buxton. The inventory of Buxton's estate was taken November 30, 1684, by Robert Fuller and Samuel Aborn, Sr. The estate was valued at -l:: 238. Anthony 44 ROBERT 1 FULLER

Buxton had served on the Grand Jury with Robert in 1680 and 1681. He was a farmer and owned about 50 acres in the Northfield section of Salem. In 1684, Robert was a witness to the will of John Burton, Sr., a tanner by trade, who died October 14, 1684. For overseers of his will he named "his friend Robert Fuller", and his son-in-law William Osborne. The inventory of Burton's estate, dated November 16, 1684, totalled -1:: 223-12-0. His will was probated on the same date. John Burton was a Quaker, and lived during the period when Quakers were persecuted by arrest, whippings, fines, and imprisonment for not attending religious services of the Congregational church.

Salem Deeds of Robert and Margaret On July 26, 1687, Margaret deeded the house and ten acres of land, etc., which she had inherited from her first husband, Christopher Waller, to Robert. On the same date, Robert and Margaret deeded an adjoining lot of ten acres to Mary Salmon, then age 19, to be hers after the decease of both Robert and Margaret. Two weeks later, August 8, 1687, Robert and Margaret deeded about two acres of salt marsh located between their above land and the marsh of her brother, Nathaniel Felton, to Nathaniel for a "valuable sume". These deeds are quoted later in this chapter. These 22 acres in the North field section seem to be all of the land that Robert and Margaret owned in Salem. The location of this land on Cow-house River is fairly definite, since the deeds name the previous owners. Sidney Perley, in his History of Salem, Vol. I, pp. 315, 316, has done outstanding research in tracing Salem land titles back as far as recorded deeds were kept. The Leach, Veren, and Cantlebury lots, mentioned in Robert's deeds, were on record in 1660. The general location of Robert's and Margaret's land is shown on the map page 70.

Land Ownership Edict The reason for making these 168 7 deeds was very likely due to Governor Andros' edict that earlier land titles and deeds were worthless, and ownership could be confirmed only by bringing deeds to Boston and paying a fee. Both Robert and Margaret were close to 70 years of age, and doubtless wanted to arrange for clear ownership of their Salem land. ROBERT 1 FULLER 45

The Andros administration lasted a little over two years, after which time he was returned to England in 1689. This had been a troublesome two years for Salem, as well as for the other New England towns. Following the overthrow of the Andros government, the freemen assembled in their respective towns and voted to resume the colonial government. The meeting in Salem for this purpose was held May 7, 1689. A provincial government existed for three years, until a new charter, dated October 7, 1691, was drawn. This charter made the two Massachusetts colonies, together with Maine and Arcadia, a royal province under the name of "Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England". The local town governments were then restored to their previous operation. Robert's seat in the Meeting House The final mention of Robert in Salem town records is: at a meeting of the Comitte appointed for the Towne for ye ordering disposeing or building of seats in ye meeting house ye 1 - 12 (February) 1691 ... Samii Ebrons, Jno Maskol Senr, Lt. Nath felton, mr. Rob. fuller & Jer Meacham Senr is seated in the seat behind the ministers. This requirement for seating was due to some changes made in the meeting house when repairs were made in 1691. Rev. John Higginson had been their minister since 1660, and although getting old and forgetful, he retained the position until he died in 1708 at the age of 93.

Salem Witchcraft The year 1692 saw the beginning of the Salem witchcraft delusion, which spread until about 125 persons had been accused. They were given court trial before a jury. Many were jailed, some were hanged, and a few were acquitted. Early in 1693, Governor Phips ended this sorry state of affairs in Salem. We find no mention of Robert or Margaret in the records of the trials.

Last Land Deeds of Robert and Margaret Under date of May 28, 1696, Robert deeded 1-7 /8 acres of salt meadow in the Rehoboth North Purchase area (Attleborough) to his son Jonathan. This appears to have been a tract of Robert's land which was overlooked when he deeded the rest of his Rehoboth property a few years earlier. 46 ROBERT1 FULLER

The final joint deed of Robert and Margaret, dated February 26, 1696/7, sold their homestead in the North field of Salem to Lieut. Jacob Manning for -:6 65. It gave him full ownership of the house, barn, and orchard, as well as the ten acres of homestead land. This deed also gave him the use of the ten acres which had been deeded to Mary Sammons on July 26, 1687, as long as either Robert or Margaret lived. At the decease of the last to die, these ten acres reverted to Mary as previously intended. As Robert was the last to die, in 1706, Lieut. Manning had the use of this land for nine years. Mary Sammons was 37 years old in 1706, and had married Joseph Doliver of Marblehead. Further research would disclose whether or not Mary sold this land to Lieut. Manning when it came into her actual possession. ( p) Final Return to Rehoboth Having disposed of their Salem property, Robert and Margaret went back to Rehoboth to live their remaining years. They were both close to 80 years old. Margaret had no children of her own, but two · of Robert's sons, Jonathan and Benjamin, were living in Rehoboth. In 1697 there were 17 of Robert's grandchildren living in or near Rehoboth. The inducement to return to Rehoboth was strong. We do not know with certainty where Robert and Margaret lived on their return to Rehoboth. His youngest son, Benjamin, who had moved from Salem to Rehoboth a few years previously, had four children who were quite young. Benjamin's first wife, Mary, had died on February 27, 1695/6. There is the possibility that Robert and Margaret came to live with him at Wachamoket Neck, to help take care of the children. The combination of very young children and very old grandparents wouldn't seem to be a practical solution except for a very short time. However, on January 13, 1698/9, Benjamin married again and had three more children by his second wife. It seems most probable that the oldest son, Jonathan, felt it was his duty and responsibility to care for Robert and Margaret. Robert and Jonathan had been closely associated in earlier years. Jonathan's family had grown up, and all but three had married and left home.

(p) Mary Sammon, born March 16, 1688/9 in Salem, was the daughter of George Sammon (also spelled Samon, Sammons, and Salmon). He married Remember Felton, a neice of Margaret Felton Waller Fuller, in October 1654. Mary's father died in February 1672/3, and it is probable that she was adopted by her great-aunt Margaret and lived with her until she moved to Rehoboth in 1697. ROBERT1 FULLER 47

Jonathan had prospered as a farmer, and was an important man in the new township of Attleborough. His wife, Elizabeth, was the daughter of Thomas Wilmarth, an old friend of Robert's, and she had known Robert since her childhood. It seems to me that the happiest home for Robert and Margaret would have been Jonathan's. Margaret's Death Margaret didn't live long after coming to Rehoboth. Her death is recorded as follows: Marget wife of Robert ffuller died 30 Jan 1699/00. She was probably buried in Rehoboth. A rough gray field stone located in the oldest part of the Newman cemetery, is chiseled "MF" but without a date. It could be the stone which marks Margaret's grave. However, the first wife of Benjamin2 had died in 1695/6, and as her name was Mary Fuller, we have the possibility that this stone may have been for her. It is a very old stone and typical of many of the grave markers of those early years.

Margaret was the youngest daughter of John and Eleanor Felton of Salem. The Felton Family settled in Salem in 1633. Mrs. Eleanor (Thrower) Felton, widow of John, came from Coventry, England with her four children: Benjamin, Nathaniel, Judith, and Margaret. 48 ROBERT 1 FULLER

Robert's Last Years Robert lived for six more years after Margaret died. During this time he saw further increase in his descendants of the third and fourth generations. At the time of his death there were 25 living grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Robert's death is briefly recorded as follows: Robartt ffuller, Senr Died May the 1.oth 1706. Assuming he was born in England about 1615, Robert would have lived 91 years. His place of burial is not known, but could have been in the old part of the Newman cemetery which was the only general cemetery at that time. Any stone, which originally may have been placed to mark his grave, is no longer there.

ORIGINAL REHOBOTH LAND RECORDS CONCERNING ROBERT1 FULLER The original records which document the Rehoboth land acquired by Roberti Fuller are in the first two Rehoboth Town Meetings Books. Book I covers the years I 644 through 1673, and Book II is from l 674 through l 739. These books are in the old style manuscript of the various Town Clerks and are difficult to read. They are not indexed, and it is necessary to search for information page by page. The records concerning the land divisions voted by the Proprietors are interspersed with other affairs of town meetings. It was not until I 730 that the town voted to keep separate records, to be known as Proprietors' records, and to transcribe the land records from Town Meetings Books I and II into a new Proprietors' Meetings Book. Rehoboth Proprietors' Meetings Book A committee of three was appointed to transcribe the land records. They stated, as a foreword, that if they found things in the Town Meetings Books not necessary to be transcribed, they left it out. However, "all those things they judged would be in anyway serviceable to the Proprietors, or any particular person, they transcribed out of the old book". They did not always duplicate the original record exactly, and usually added the name of the latest owner of some of the original estates. The first 74 pages of the Proprietors' Meetings Book are land records taken from the Rehoboth Town Meetings Books I and II. ROBERT 1 FULLER 49

Starting with page 7 5, and going through page 362, are the records of the Proprietors' meetings beginning January 8, 1712/13. These records concern matters relating to land transactions. The last entry is dated June 17, 1841. The entire book is in manuscript, with no index. It is kept at the Registry of Deeds in Taunton. Rehoboth Land Records Books Neither the Town Meetings Books nor the Proprietors' Meetings Book give description and boundaries of the various tracts of land acquired by the individual proprietor. For this information, the original source is another set of old books called Rehoboth Land Records. There are five of these books, the fifth ending in 1839. They are also kept at the Registry of Deeds in Taunton. Book I is the New Booke of Records approved by the voters at the May 13, 1668 town meeting, and recorded by the Plymouth General Court. It has 83 manuscript pages listing the various tracts of land held at that time by 58 proprietors, the pastor, the teacher, and the schoolmaster. The size of each tract is usually given, as well as the general location, and the boundaries as they were known at that time. The lands of Robertl Fuller are recorded on pages 61 and 62, and total about 86 acres. An exact transcript of Robert's recorded land holdings is given later in this chapter. His name last appears in Rehoboth Land Records Book II, page 184, where he deeds 1-7 /8 acres of salt meadow to his son Jonathan on May 28, 1696. Robert Fuller's Land in Rehoboth Robert acquired his various tracts of Rehoboth land: ( 1) by vote of the Townsmen, (2) by division of the common lands, (3) by purchase. To document his acquisitions, the records from the Rehoboth Town Meetings Books are quoted on the following pages. Robert was living in Salem when the first four Rehoboth land divisions were made, and he did not directly participate in these early divisions. However, he was later given four allotments that had been made to John Sutton who lived in Hingham and apparently delayed in taking up his Rehoboth land. In the original records, John Sutton's name is crossed out, and that of Robert Fuller is written in against these four allotments. Methods of Land Division Rehoboth land was apportioned to the individual settlers or proprietors, by vote taken at town meetings. A division of common 50 ROBERT 1 FULLER land at a specified location was voted upon, and usually the acreage per -1:; 100 in Commonage Rights was voted at the same time. Lots were then drawn by the proprietors, each of whom selected the location of his share in numerical sequence. Under this method, those holding the larger amounts of Commonage obtained the larger acreage. When meadow land was to be apportioned, the selected area appears to have been divided into approximately equal tracts of about two or three acres each. The tracts were numbered, and the number drawn by the proprietor determined the location of his allotment. This method gave each proprietor about an equal amount of the scarce meadow land regardless of his Commonage holding. The Rehoboth methods of apportioning the common lands differed from the method used in Salem, where the individual applications for land were made to the Townsmen (or Selectmen), who for many years, controlled the distribution of common lands. Division for Home Lots The first division of land was for home lots surrounding the "Ring of the Green" on Seekonk plain. There is no record of this drawing of lots, which probably was done while the original proprietors were still living in Weymouth and adjacent towns. From later land records, the size, general location, and the proprietor of each of the original home lots, with few exceptions, can be determined. The John Sutton home lot, later given to Robert Fuller, was next to Rev. Newman's home lot. Robert exchanged this lot for one which Rev. Newman bought from Samuel Butterworth. This lot was about six acres, located at the southwest end of the "Ring of the Green." (q) It became Robert's home lot upon which he built his house. His neighbor on the north was Lieut. Peter Hunt, and on the south was Robert Wheaton, his brother-in-law. Robert deeded this home lot and his house to his youngest son, Benjamin, in 1679, although the deed was not sworn in court until 1696, nor recorded until 1706. Benjamin married in 1686, and was then living in Salem. He probably never lived in this house after his marriage, as he did not come to live in Rehoboth until about 1694. On December 3, 1687, Benjamin ( of Salem) deeded the house and six acres to Sampson Mason in exchange for 18 acres and a house at Wachamoket Neck. It does not appear that Benjamin came to live at Wachamoket Neck until several years after this transaction, as his

(q) Cf: Bowen's Early Rehoboth, Vol. I, p. 113. ROBERT 1 FULLER 51 first three children were born in Salem. His fourth child, Ezekiel, was born in Rehoboth February 11, 1695/6. His three subsequent children, by his second wife, were also born in Rehoboth. Benjamin died there in 171 1. The probate records of his estate are at Taunton.

Division for Woodland After obtaining their house lots, the next requirement for the settlers was to obtain a source of wood for heating and cooking. At a town meeting held the 31st of the ... ( r) month, 1643, "lots were Drawn for the Division of woodland Between the Plaine and the Town, and agreed upon that Every man shall have ... (s) acres to Every t 100 Estate. Drewn in numbers as ffolloweth, (viz) 20 .Jehn-Sut-t-f>fl Robert ffuler In Rehoboth Town Meetings, Book I, p.25, which is the original record, John Sutton is crossed out and Robert Fuller written beside it in another handwriting. When this division was transcribed into the Proprietors' Meetings Book, p.4, they simply wrote Robert Fuller beside No. 20. There were 58 participants in this drawing for woodland.

Divisions for Meadow Land Divisions for small parcels of salt and fresh meadow lands were made shortly after the woodland division was completed. No record was made of these tracts of meadow land, but they were doubtless made by drawing lots. Fresh meadow was scarce, and was usually located a few miles from the proprietor's home lot. Later records show that the a1lotment of fresh meadow was only one or two acres to each proprietor. Salt meadow was allotted in tracts of two and three acres. Due to the small size of these meadow allotments and their scattered locations, the Town Clerk was unable to record a meaningful description. When Robert Fuller reported his land holdings in 1668, he had six items of fresh or salt meadow, amounting to a total of about eight acres.

(r) Bowen in Early Rehoboth Vol. IV, p. 4, thinks this was the fifth month, or July. (s) This is blank in both record books. In Robert's 1668 list of land holdings, he reports 28 acres for lot No. 20 in the second divi;,ion, which would be this division for woodland. 52 ROBERT 1 FULLER

Division Upon the Neck

At a Town meeting ye 10th of the first month (March) I 644 ... the Lots were Drawn for allottments upon the Neck as followeth, (viz.) ... Robert ffuller .J.ehn-SuH-f}fl No. 40 11 (acres) In Rehoboth Town Meetings Book I, p. 6, John Sutton is crossed out and Robert Fuller written c:bove it. The Proprietors' Meetings Book p. 5 simply lists Robert Fuller as No. 40. There were 46 participants in this drawing which was known as the "first division upon the neck." This was Wachamoket Neck which extended westward to Narragansett Bay.

Division on the Great Plain

The ninth Day of the 4th month (June) 1645 ... at a meeting of the Townsmen upon Public notice given, the same Day lots were Drawn for the Greate Plaine as foloweth, and to begin upon the west side and he that is first upon the west side shall be last upon the East ...

Robt 27 John Sutton Fuller 6 (acres)

The original record in Rehoboth T01vn Meetings Book I, p. 4, shows John Sutton crossed out and Robert Fuller written above it. In the Proprietors' Meetings Book, p. 6, John Sutton is not crossed out, but Robt Fuller is written beside it as shown above. A total of 58 proprietors drew lots in this division. It appears that six acres were allotted on the west side of the plain, and six on the east side.

Townsmen Vote Land to Robert Fuller Robert must have made an agreement with the Townsmen (later called Selectmen) that he would move his family from Salem and settle in Rehoboth if they would make land available to him. On the 26th of the I 0th month (December) 1645 ... at a meeting of the townsmen ... it was agreed upon that the house lot and the rest of the accomodations that was laid out to John Sutton by the towne, being that he hath not come to live amongst us nor fulfiled the orders agreed upon - being dated the 24th of the 8th month 1643 - hath forfeited the same into the hands of the towne. therefor wee

doe dispose of it as followeth ~ the six acres that was laid out for him ROBERT 1 FULLER 53

to Robert ffuller with halfe of all the other accomodations in every alotment and the other part of the alotment to William Devel. (t) The other allotments made to John Sutton originally were the following land divisions previously quoted in paragraphs above: 1643 28 acres of woodland (No. 20) 1644 11 acres upon the neck (No. 40) 1645 12 acres upon the great plain (No. 27) Also, two or more small tracts of meadow land.

William Devel had previously been given a home lot of about eight acres. In 1652, Robert purchased this home lot, together with Devel's half of the 28 acres of woodland, and his half of the 12 acres on the great plain. (Devel sold his half of the neck lot No. 40, to Stephen Payne.) The deed of sale from Devel to Robert is quoted as follows: Dated the first of the 12 mon. (February) 1652 - Sould to Robert fuller of Rehoboth my Home Iott in the Neck being eight acres and the commodations belonging there unto, that is, the salt & fresh medows with the Iott in the second Devission & in the Playne, with the commage, only the neck Iott which did belong to this commodation was sould to Steven Payne of the ( ) plantation, conveying five acres & halfe, be it more or less. Before the sale of fore sayd commodations before ... (torn off) and it is agreed on that his wife gave her full ... ( torn off) of William Dev ... ( torn off) By this purchase Robert acquired another -b 75 in Rehoboth Commonage Rights, making his total -b 150. This was the amount originally held by John Sutton. Robert never acquired any more Commonage, and ultimately gave -b 50 to each of his sons, Jonathan and Benjamin, and to his grandson Samuel. Division of the New Meadow At a town meeting held the 18th of the 12th month 1646, lots were drawn by 46 proprietors for a division of the new meadow "by only those that were under -b 150 estate to be made up to -b 150."

(t) William Devel was a Baptist, and in October 1650 was before the Plymouth Comt, with seven others, for violating an earlier Court order to stop meeting from house to house on Sundays. Shortly after that he left Rehoboth and went to Rhode Island to live. Cf: Bowen's Early Rehoboth, Vol. I, p. 29. 54 ROBERT 1 FULLER

acres quarters No. 7 Robert ffuller 1 2 On that date Robert held only -b 75 in Commonage. It is not clear how this drawing, which allotted him 1-2/4 acres, would bring the value of his estate up to -b 150. This appears to be the fifth recorded land division in the Rehoboth Town Meetings book, and was the first one in which Robert participated directly. He had not yet brought his family to Rehoboth. This division was not transcribed into the Proprietors' Meetings Book, although it is clearly recorded on page 83 of the Rehoboth Town Meetings Book I. There were no further land divisions recorded for over twelve years. In the meantime:

Robert Records His Rehoboth Property The Land of Robert [fuller 1652 Imp: His home Iott being six acres given him by the town out of Suttons Iott, which he exchanged with Mr Newman for that Iott he (Mr. Newman) bought of Samuel Butterworth & now in possession of the sayd Robert ffuller. farther there was given to Robert ffuller the halfe of Suttons statte being halfe a hundredth & a quarter estate, which is 75 pounds. farther it is agreed on by the townes assent that as Robert fuller hath purchased the lands which was given to William Devell and also the comonig belonging to it that the said Robert fuller is to enjoy it if the privileges be performed that was between them agreed to.

Division for Meadow Land On the 22nd of the 4 month (June) 1658 ... at a Town Meeting Lawfully warned, Lotts were Drawne for the meddows yt Lyes on the north side of the Towne in order as ffolloweth according to Person and Estate. Robert ffuller No. 65. A total of 49 proprietors drew lots. The amount of land to be allotted to each is not recorded, but being fresh meadow it was probably an acre or two per E 100 Commonage. The location on the "north side of the town" was later to be called the Rehoboth North Purchase. The Plymouth General Court had authorized this 1658 division, but the area was not purchased from the Indians until 1661, and not formally deeded to the proprietors of Rehoboth until 1666. ROBERT 1 FULLER 55

Other Land Transactions At a town meeting the 20th of the 11th month (January) 1661, it was voted and agreed upon that Wachamoket Neck should be lotted out. However, there is no record of lots being drawn, and it is probable that no division was made at that time. Rehoboth North Purchase Title to the so-called Rehoboth North Purchase (u) had been taken by Capt. Thomas Willett on April 8, 1661 by deed from Wamsetta (alias Alexander), then chief Sachem of the Wampanoags. Five years later, on April 10, 1666, Capt. Willett deeded this land to Thomas Prence, Josias Winslow, Thomas Southworth and Constant Southworth, in behalf of the Colony of New Plymouth. On the same date, this land was deeded by Plymouth to those proprietors of Rehoboth having an estate of t 50 or more and who originally agreed to buy the land. Each of these eligible proprietors was given one share (there were also six half shares) in this territory. A total of 79½ shares were issued to 82 proprietors. Robert Fuller and his oldest son Jonathan are listed as having "one whole share" each. Land divisions in the North Purchase area were made in equal amounts per share. The method of allotment based on Commonage Rights was not used. Divisions in the North Purchase Area On May 26, 1668, lots were drawn by 76 proprietors for the meadows in the North Purchase. The size of the allotment to each proprietor was not recorded. Robert drew No. 55 and Jonathan No. 61. The following year, another division in the North Purchase area was voted at a town meeting held March I, 1668/9. Lots were drawn on March 18 by 81 proprietors. The participants received 50 acres of upland per share. On October 26, 1676, Robert deeded the 50 acres he received at this drawing to his grandson John. Robert drew No. 68. Rehoboth North Purchase Land Records The earlier records of the North Purchase land division were kept in the Rehoboth Town Meetings books. On October 19, 1694, most

(u) The Rehoboth North Purchase included the present towns of Attleborough, North Attleborough, Cumberland, and a part of the land that was afterward Mansfield and Norton. 56 ROBERT1 FULLER

of the North Purchase territory was incorporated as the Town of Attleborough. A land record book titled First Book - Rehoboth . North Purchase Land Records, 1672 - 1724, was compiled. (v) It almost entirely concerns the various tracts in the area which were owned by individual proprietors. At the time this book was compiled, Robert held no land in the North Purchase area in his own name. On page 228 is recorded "Bounds of the Lands of Abie! Fuller": 50 acres laid out upon his Grandfathers Robert Fullers Rights .... being across the Ten Mile river on the north side of the highway.

This was undoubtedly the 50 acres Robert acquired as No. 80 in the division of June 29, 1685 which will be described later. Abiel was the youngest son of John2 Fuller, and was born four months after his father was killed by the Indians in King Philip's war. There does not appear to be a recorded deed conveying this 50 acres to Abiel, but this entry in the land record book confirms his title. On page 242 is recorded "Bounds of the Lands of John Fuller son of John Fuller" : 50 acres laid out on his Grandfathers Robert Fullers Rights ... lying on both sides of the Ten Mile river. This is the land Robert drew on March 18, 1668/9 and which he deeded to his grandson John on October 26, 1676. The deed is quoted later in this chapter. Further Land Divisions in Rehoboth The next division of the original Rehoboth land was voted at a town meeting held February 21, 1670/71. The land voted on was at Wachamoket Neck. This was the location voted ten years earlier (January 20, 1661 ), but which apparently was not laid out for division at that time. At this 1670 town meeting it was recorded: ... Anthony Perry, John Butterworth, Robert ffuller, Thomas Willmot, and Jonathan ffuller entered their dissent against the laying out of the neck." Nothing further was done until the town meeting a year later, February 5, 1671/2, when allotments were drawn by 79 proprietors.

(v) There are five of these land record books extending from 1672 to 1839. A handwritten transcription of each book is available at the Registry of Deeds, Taunton. The original books are in the custody of the Attleborough City Clerk. They have been microfilmed. ROBERT 1 FULLER 57

Robert drew No. 23 and appears to have taken his share in spite of his previous protest against this division. The acreage allotted is not· recorded. Lots were drawn by 45 proprietors at a town meeting held February 20, 1672/3. The division was "to begin at the end of William Carpenters home lot ... ". Again the amount of land to be allotted is not recorded. This division is not mentioned in the Proprietors' Meetings Book, and it is possible that no actual division was made. Robert drew No. 34. King Philip's War Intervenes With the advent of King Philip's war, which doubtless appeared imminent many months before actual fighting started in June 1675, there was no further action taken regarding land divisions until - at a Town meeting lawfully warned ye 24th of July 1679 ... the Town also chose a Committee to Draw up sum proposalls to make the Town Respecting the Dividing of Lands for the future in case we go on to make our Rates according to the order of Court, that it might be the will of God, that the spirite of man may be quieted, and peace continued amongst us and that mens Lands and their Evidences may be made Authentick. What this committee may have recommended is not in the records. It was not until 1685 that further land divisions were made. They were the last divisions in which Robert participated. It was voted at a town meeting on March 12, 1684/5, that a division of land be laid out in the southeast part of town. Each b 100 of Commonage to have 20 acres. On April 9, 1685, a total of 86 lots were drawn. No. 62 Robert ffuller & his son Jonn ffuller E 100 No. 65 Samll ffuller E 50 Robert was living in Salem at the time of this division, and Jonathan probably made the drawing using his father's Commonage. The t 50 which Robert had deeded to his grandson Samuel was used by his mother as his guardian, as SamueJ3 was only nine years old.

Another North Purchase Division On June 29, 1685, lots were drawn for another division of land in the North Purchase area, each share to receive 50 acres of upland. No. 28 Jonathan Fuller No. 80 Robert Fuller 58 ROBERT1 FULLER

In Rehoboth Town Meetings Book II, p.49, Robert's name is at the bottom of the list, and his name was added in a different handwriting than the previous names. He was living in Salem and may not have been present when the lots were drawn, but claimed his share later. This 50 acres appears to be the land later recorded to Abiel in Proprietors' Meetings Book, p. 228, as a gift from his grandfather. Robert's Disposition of his Rehoboth Lands This completes the listing of Rehoboth and Rehoboth North Purchase land divisions in which Robert participated. He acquired approximately 190 acres totally, including about 30 acres which he purchased. He disposed of it all during his lifetime to his sons and grandsons as follows: 17 acres and some meadow to Samuel2, about 1673 50 acres and some meadow to John3, deeded Oct. 26, 1676 25 acres and some meadow to SamueJ3, deeded May 20, 1679 26 acres and some meadow to Benjamin2, deeded Dec. 1, 1679 50 acres and some meadow to AbieJ3, prior to 1689 1-7 /8 acres sale meadow to Jonathan2, deeded May 28, 1696 The last item of salt meadow had perhaps been overlooked in previous years when Robert was disposing of his other lands. It was of little value. In case this small acreage deeded to Jonathan looks out of proportion to the gifts made to the others, it must be noted that Jonathan was actively acquiring land on his own right. He was well-to-do, having some 500 acres in his estate. He was one of the earliest selectmen of Attleborough, and was active politically and as a churchman. The only recorded sale made by Robert of his Rehoboth land, appears in Rehoboth Land Records Book I, p.28, which lists the "Lands of Stephen Payne, Sr., and Nathaniel". One item in this list is: one (lot) I bought of Robert ffuller cont. a seven akers more or !es - butting on the salt water north west, butting in part on a highway running into Wachamoket cove on the south east end, & syding on the Pastors Lot north east, with a highway at ye end of the lots that leads to the salt water. This appears to be the eight acres which Robert had purchased from William Devel prior to 1652, and was Devel's "home Iott in the Neck". The date of Stephen Payne's purchase from Robert is not given nor the purchase price. ROBERT 1 FULLER 59

When the very complete and accurate list of Rehoboth land owners was made and incorporated in Major Bradford's quit claim deed of December 26, 1689, Robert's name does not appear either as a resident owner or as a non-resident owner. This seems to be final evidence that Robert had disposed of his Rehoboth lands prior to that time. The Record of Robert's Lands Made About 1668 The listing of all of Robert's Rehoboth land as compiled for the New Booke of Records, and approved by the voters on May 13, 1668, is on pages 61 and 62 of Rehoboth Land Records Book I. It is quoted verbatim herewith. All items were located in the original "eight miles square" of Rehoboth. He later acquired more land in Rehoboth and in the Rehoboth North Purchase area, and reference to these items has been made previously in this chapter. The Lands of Robert [fuller and his Other Allotments: 1. My home Lott cont. six akers more or less, butting upon the common East, Leiftenant Hunt upon the north, Robert Wheaton upon the south, and the Mill river upon the west. 2. Eight akers upon the neck yt was given to Goodman Devell for a house Lott wch I bought of him. John Reads Land upon the south, Joseph Pecks upon the north, the Common upon the east and the River upon the west. 3. Thirdly twenty eight akers in the second division more or less, being the 20th Lott, Abram Martins Lott upon the south, Robert Morris Lott upon the north, wch is now in the hands of John ffitch, the high way upon the west, the edge of the hill upon the east. 4. The second division Lott yt was part of Will Smiths Lott cont. seaven akers and a halfe more or less, James Redaways Land on the east, Joseph Buckland on ye west, the high way on the south, & Thomas Cooper Junior on ye north, being the thirty third Lott. 5. Upon the east syde of the great playne, six akers more or less being the 27 Lott, butting upon the high way west, Robert Abell upon the south, the Land yt was Mr. Henery Smith Senior upon the north, the River upon ye east. 6. Upon the west syde of the playne, six akers more or less being the 27 Lott, Robert Abell upon the north, Henery Smith upon the south, butting upon the high way east, the woodland west. 7. Seventhly upon the fforty aker meadow one aker and a halfe more or less, being the 43th Lott, John Allen upon the south, Thomas Cooper 60 ROBERT1 FULLER

Senior upon the north, bounded upon the east and west with the woodland. 8. Salt marsh upon the neck syde three akers & three quarters more or less, Thomas Cooper Senior on the south, ffrancis Stevens Senior upon the north, the mayne River upon the east, the salt Creek upon the west. 9. Upon Palmers River one aker of ffresh meadow more or less, bounded upon the south wth Mr. Pecks meadow & from the east to the north wth a Little brooke. 10. More upon Palmers River, certain small pieces of meadow Lyeing on the east syde of the River, bounded on the east wth the upland, on the west wth the River, on the south with the high way yt goes over the River near Robert Joanes Lott end & on the north to Jonathan Blysses meadow yt was Abram Martins. 11. Eight akers of upland & a halfe Lyeing at Palme rs River, bounded upon my owne meadow on the east, a highway on the south, --- eight akers of upland more adjoyning to my other Land at Palmers River bounded to the south with a high way, to the west & north with the townes Lands yt was exchanged for so much Land yt was myne at Watchamoket neck. 12. Halfe an aker of upland wth a piece of meadow bounded wth the River on ye west, Goodman Allens Lands on the north & the townes Lands on the south & east. 13. Two spotts of meadow cont. an aker more or less bounded wth Goodman Allens Land on the east & the River on the west.

RECORDED DEEDS OF ROBERT1 FULLER When the common lands were originally allotted to the individual proprietors during the early years of the Rehoboth settlement, formal deeds were not executed. There was plenty of land for everybody and boundaries were only approximate. At a meeting of the nine Rehoboth Townsmen held February 26, 1644, it is ordered that the recording of any mans land in the towne book shall be to him and his heirs sufficient assurance forever: that noe mans land shall be recorded until! he bee recorded an inhabitant amongst us and further that noe mans land shall be recorded until he shall bringe to the towne Clarke a note for his lands are buted bounded. In later years, however, formal deeds were recorded at Plymouth Court prior to 1685, and subsequently at the Bristol County Registry of Deeds at Taunton. The early settlers considered a deed as binding when it was signed by the grantor, and often a deed was not acknowledged or recorded at the court until several years later. It ROBERT1 FULLER 61 was usually not convenient for the grantor to take a day or more to travel to Plymouth or Taunton just to complete the legal formalities, which were not deemed to be of great urgency. Robert recorded two deeds at Plymouth, one in 1676 to his grandson John, and another in 1679 to his grandson Samuel. Another deed made in 1679 to his youngest son Benjamin, was not acknowledged until 1696, nor recorded until 1706 at Taunton. All three deeds are quoted verbatim herewith. Also quoted is the Indenture of Samson Mason to Benjamin2 Fuller. It is of especial interest as it exchanges Robert's original home lot on the "Ring of the Green" and the buildings thereon, for land and buildings at Wachamoket Neck. The date, I 687, of this Indenture, was eight years after Robert had deeded his home lot and buildings to Benjamin. Apparently the property was no longer of interest to the Fullers. The deeds of Robert and his second wife, Margaret, for land which she inherited from her first husband in Salem, are also quoted. We can find no record of land which Robert might have owned when he first lived in Salem.

ROBERT FULLER TO HIS GRANDSON JOHN FULLER, October 26, 1676. Be it known unto all men by these presents that I, Robert ffuller of the township of Rehoboth in the Govnment of New Plymouth in New England have for good Grounds moveing me thereunto; have Given Graunted allianated enfeofed and confirmed and doe by these presents Give Graunt enfeofe and confirme unto my Grand child John ffuller son of John ffuller lately deceased; a tract of upland and meddow; lying upon the ten mile River within the last purchase on the south (w) syde of the Towne of Rehoboth aforesaid; which said tract of land being the first devision of upland in the purchase containing fifty acrees be it more or Jesse; and alsoe a full share of meddow in the aforesaid purchase with all the rights and privilidges thereunto belonging or appertaining; my said Grand child to be possessed of the said lands when hee comes to the age of one and twenty yeers; In the meantime I, the said Robert ffuller doe make it over unto my daughter in law Abigail! ffuller late wife to my deceased son John ffuller; to make use thereof and to occupy the said lands to Improve them as shee stands in need of them or is in Capassitie to Improve them; and thereof I doe engage my said daughter in law to possesse her said son of the said lands att the age before expressed if hee live to that age, but if hee die before; then the said lands to pass to that child that now my said· daughter in law is with child

(w) This appears to have been a copying error in the copy book as this land was in the North Purchase (Attleborough) area, as confirmed by later deeds. 62 ROBERT 1 FULLER

with; be it either son or daughter;(x) The said John ffuller his heires and assignes to hold use occupye and for ever enjoy the aforesaid fifty acrees of land and one whole share of meddow; as his own proper Right to him and his heires and assignes for ever and that the said Abigaill ffuller and John ffuller or his heires or assignes shall enjoy the aforsaid premises without any Jett trouble molestation or disturbance from mee or my heires. Witness my hand and seal this 26th of October one Thousand six hundred seventy and six. Signed sealled and delivered in the presence of us Robert ffuller and a (S) William Carpenter John Carpenter William Carpenter as Attorney to Robert ffuller as by letters of Attorney did appeer under hand and seal; came before mee Constant Southworth, Assistant this last day Plymouth Colony Deeds, of October 1676 and did acknowlidge this Book IV, part 1, p. 61. above Deed of Gift:

ROBERT FULLER TO HIS GRANDSON SAMUEL FULLER, May 20, 1679. To all Christian people to whom these presents shall come, Robert ffuller of the Township of Salem in the Govnment of the Massachusetts sendeth Greeting; Know yee that I the said Robert ffuller have for Good Grounds moveing mee thereunto Given Granted Alliened made over enfeoffed and Confirmed: and doe by these presents Give Grant make over allien enfeoffe and Confirme unto my Grand child Samuell ffuller a tract of upland and meddow on the west syde of Palmer River, the upland containing twenty five acrees be it more or Jesse, the meddow lying between the said upland and the river; the said upland and meddow being bounded to the North with a Run that bounds the said land between the land of Benjamin Saben and the meddow that was layed out to Ensyne Henery Smith and Daniell Smith; To the south a highway, To the East the River, To the west the Comon. Likewise fifty pounds estate of Comonage, all which meddow and land and Comonage is within the towne of Rehoboth, The which said Lands both upland and meddow and Comonage I give free libertie to John Redaway my Grand Childs father in law and Mary Redaway my daughter in law to make use and improve for the healping to bring up my Grand child Samuell ffuller until! my said Grand Child shall come of the age of twenty one yeers; and then to make full Surrender of the said Lands and Comonage or any other lands as may or'shall be layed forth as due to the said Comonage between the date hereof and the said Samuell ffuller coming of one and twenty yeers of age all of which tract of upland and meddow as before bounded and fifty pounds estate of comonage with all the proffitts privilidges and comodities; I the said Robert ffuller doe make over firmly by these presents unto my Grand Child Samuell ffuller as his owne proper Right to him his heirs and assigns

(x) The unborn son referred to in the above deed was another son, Abiall, born December 30, 1676. Robert later gave Abiall fifty acres in the North Purchase area. ROBE RT 1 FULLER 63 forever; To have and to hold the before said Lands and meddow and Comonage; with all the Rights privilidges and appurtenances belonging there unto; the said Samuel ffuller hee his heires etc forever to be fully and firmly possessed of the same when hee comes to the age of twenty one yeers; in the meantime of his minoritie the said John Reddaway and Mary his said wife to have the full gouvernment and benefit of it without any lett trouble or disturbance by mee or by my heires; In Witness I the said Robert ffuller hath sett my hand and seale this twentyeth Day of May in the yeer of our Lord one thousand and six hundred seventy and nine. Memorandum the aforesaid Robert ffuller doth make an exception that if the said Samuell ffuller doe die before hee comes of age of twenty one yeers then the said Lands at the end of twenty one yeers to return to the dispose of the said Robert ffuller. Signed sealed and delivered Robert ffuller and a (S) in the presence of us William Carpenter This deed was acknowledged by Robert Jaret Ingraham ffuller the twenty eight of May in the year Plymouth Colony Deeds, 1679 before me Vol. IV, part 2, p. 263. James Browne, Assistant

ROBERT FULLER TO HIS SON BENJAMIN FULLER, December 1, 1679. To all Christian People to whom these presents shall come Robert Fuller of the Town of Salem in the County of Essex in the Province of the Massachusetts in New England, Bricklayer, sendeth Greeting: Know yee that I the said Robert Fuller have upon good grounds moveing me thereunto and out of love and affection to my son Benjamin Fuller of the Town of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol in the Province afores'd have given granted aliened made over enfeoffed and confirmed and doe by these presents give grant alien make over enfeoffe and confirm from me and any other of my heires, to him the saiu Benjamin Fuller he, his heires, executors, Adms, and Assignes forever all that Dwelling house and house lot containing six acres be it more or less with an orchard upon it lyeing between the house lotts of Lieutenant Hunt and Robert Wheaton's bounded to the west the mill river. Likewise seven acres and a halfe of land be it more or less in the second Division being bounded and lyeing between the lands of Joseph Buckland and James Redway bounded to the north Thomas Cooper. Likewise twelve acres be it more or less upon the great Plain lyeing in two lotts on both sides of the highway; lyeing between the lands of Preserved Abel and the Heires of Henry Smith. Likewise one full halfe of my salt meadow, the halfe containing one acre and three quarters and halfe a quarter be it more or less, the whole lot lyeing between the meadow that was Deacon Coopers and ffancis Stephens and lyeing between the salt river and the crick. 64 ROBERT 1 FULLER

Likewise one acre and a halfe of fresh meadow lyeing in the forty acres bounded between the meadow of Goodman Cooper and Goodman Read and on both sides of the upland. Likewise fifty pounds Estate in Commonage within the old bounds of the town. All said lands house and orchard sittuate in Rehoboth afores'd divided or undivided to have and to hold the afores'd Dwelling house orchard and house Iott and seven acres of land and a halfe in the second Division and twelve acres of land in the great plaine, and the one halfe of my salt meadow and one acre and a halfe of fresh meadow in the forty acres and fifty pound estate in commonage in the town of Rehoboth unto the said Benjamin Fuller his heires executors Administrators and assignes with all and singular the timber wood stones mines minerals waters grass seedlings rents profits priviledges imunityes and appures thereunto belonging or in any wise appertayning to any and all the afores'd lands divided or undivided with the reversion and reversions remainder and remainders to the only proper use and behoofe of the said Benjan Fuller his heires executors Administrators and assignes for ever and that the said Benjamin Fuller his heires and assignes shall and may by force and vertue of these presents from time to time and at all times hereafter lawfully peaceably and quietly hold use occupy enjoy and possess all the before granted premises and every part and parcel thereof without any lett suit trouble denyall interuption or contradiction of mee the said Robert Fuller or any of my other he ires. In witness hereof I the said Robert Fuller hath sett my hand and seal this first day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand six hundred seventy and nine. Memn the words (the whole lot) in the eighteenth line was enterlined before the ensealing hereof. Signed sealed and delivered in the presence of us Robert Fuller (S) Jonathan Fuller William Carpenter Memorandum that Robert Fuller per­ sonally appeared the 28th of May 1696 and Entered Aug 12, 1706 acknowledged this instrument to be his by John Cary, Recorder. voluntary act and deed. B. C. Deeds 5: 68 Before Nicholas Peck, Justice.

INDENTURE: SAMSON MASON TO BENJAMIN2 FULLER, December 3, 1687 This Indenture made ye third Day of Decem: in ye Yeare of or Lord one thousand six hundred eighty & seven & in ye third yeare of ye Reigne of or Sovereigne Lord King James ye Second of Engld Scotland ffrance & Ireland King &c, between Benjamin ffuller of ye towne of Salem in ye County of Essex in his Majties Territory & Dominion of N-Engld mason on ye one part & Sampson Mason of ye Towne of Rehoboth in ye County of Bristoll in his Majties Territory aforesd cordwindcr on ye other part, Wittnesseth that Whereas there ROBERT1 FULLER 65

hath been & is certain Agreemts for & Concerning Exchanges of Lands ( that is to say) that Whereas ye said Benjamn ffuller was seized in his right of ffee simple of a dwelling house, out house, orchard & home lott conteining six acres be it more or Jesse scittuate in Rehoboth aforesd and ye Sampson Mason was seized in his right of ffee simple of a Dwelling house, orchard & home lotte in Wachamokett Neck in Rehoboth aforesd conteining eighteen acres be it more or Jesse. It was Agreed between ye aforesd persons to make exchange of ye said Lands that the said Sampson Mason his heires & Assignes should forever have hould possesse & enjoy ye sd six acres of Land & Dwelling house & out house & orchard upon it. In consideration whereof ye sd Benjamn ffuiler his hcires & Assignes should forever have hould possesse & enjoy ye sd eighteen acres of Land in Wachamokett Neck with a Dwelling house & Orchard upon it; Now this Indenture Witnesseth yt ye said Sampson Mason for & in consideration of ye sd Exchange & in performance of ye said Agreements with ye said Benjamin ffuller hath given granted aliened bargained sould exchanged enfoeffed & confirmed and Doe by these presents give grant bargain sell aliene exchange enfeoffe & confirm unto ye sd Benjamin ffuller his heires & Assignes for ever all that eighteen acres of land be it more or Jesse together with a Dwelling house & Orchard upon it being bounded & lying between ye lands of John ffrench & Robert Wheatons lands, Bounded Westerly ye highway, Easterly ye next Range of lotts with all & singuler ye timber wood underwood stones mines mineralls waters watercourses grasse seedings rents hereditaments profitts fruite trees or appurtenances whatsoever unto ye said Benjamin ffuller his heires & Assignes for ever as a good sure perfect estate of inheritance in ffee simple to be holden according to ye ffree tenure of his Majestyes manner of East Greenwich in ye County of Kent within ye Realme of England in ffree & Comon Soccage & not in Capite & Knights service, And ye said Benjamin ffuller his heires & Assignes shall & may by vertue of these presents from time to time & at all times hereafter lawfully peaceably & quietly hold use occupy enjoy & possesse ye sd premises without any lett suit trouble Denyall interruption or contradiction of ye sd Sampson Mason. In Witncsse hereof ye said Sampson Mason hath hereunto sett his hand & Seale the Day & yeare above written. Signed Sealed & Delivd in ye presence of us Samson Mason sigillum Richard Bowen Samuell Potter William Carpenter The within mentioned Samson Mason, Cordwinder Delivered ye house and land with all ye priviledges & appenes within written I say Delivered all his right to ye written or named Benjamn: ffuller by turfe & twige in ye presence of us upon ye third Day of December in ye yeare of or Lord one Thousand six hund eighty seven. Samuell Potter Jonathan ffuller Daniell ffuller 66 ROBERT1 FULLER

The Day & yeare above written Samson Mason appeared personally and owned & acknowledged this instrument to be his voluntary & free act & deed before one of ye Councill of his Maj ties Territory & Dominion of New Engld. Daniel Smith Recorded ye tenth of May Anno Dom 1688 pr Burton, Recordr B. C. Deeds 1 :57 Definitions His Majestyes manner - his stipulation or condition. Camon socage - tenure or holding by service of an honorable nature. Not in Capite - not held by the Crown. Not in Knights Service - not held by reason of doing military service. Enfeoffed - invested with a freehold estate by deed. Hcrcditaments - property that may descend to heirs. Aliened - transferred ownership. Turfe & Twigg - whereby the seller hands the buyer a bit of the soil and a twig from a tree on the property. RECORDED DEEDS OF ROBERT AND MARGARET FULLER MARGARET FULLER TO HER HUSBAND ROBERT FULLER, July 26, 1687. To all persons to whom these presents shall come: Margarett Fuller executrix of the last will & testament of Christopher Waler of Salem, her former husband, dec'd, Sendeth greeting: whereas my former husband Christopher Waler aforesd, in his last will & testament, gave and bequeathed unto me his housing and land to be at my disposing: Know ye yt I ye sd Margaret Fuller, of ye true hearty & conjugal! love & afection I bare unto Robert Fuller my present husband: and considering his care & tenderness & love towards me, as alsoe for divers other good causes & consideracons me at present especially moving, have given and granted & do by these presents give, grant & confirme unto ye sd Robert Fuller, all yt house & out-housing, with ten acres of land caled comonly Leach his lot (y) with ye orchard, fences and all ye privilidges & appurtenances thereunto belonging which wee now possess & dwell upon, and was formerly belonging unto Christopher Waler my former husband, bounded on ye south with Nathaniel Feltons, Scituate in Salem, in ye north field so caled, south west with ye highwaye or comon, northerly on ye other ten acres given to Mary Salmon. To have and to hold all and singuler the sd housing & land with all ye privilidges and appurtenances thereunto belonging, unto ye sd Robert Fuller and unto his hiers, executors, administrators or assigns forever, to his owne proper use &

(y) The original owner of the "Leach lot" referred to in this deed was Lawrence Leach. It was inherited by his only child, Richard, who on August 10, 1667, conveyed it to Christopher Waller. Cf:£. C. Deeds 6:9. ROBERT 1 FULLER 67

behoofe freely & quietly without any manner of claime, challenge or demand from me ye sd Margaret, or of other person of persons whatsoever, for me & in my name by my cause means or procurement: and I ye sd Margaret doe covenant & promise to & with ye sd Robert to warrant & defend, & the peaceable possession to maintain of ye said premises unto ye sd Robert his hiers & assigns forever, against all persons whatsoever claiming ye same by, from or under me ye sd Margarett, my hiers, executors, administrators or assignes. In witness whereof I have sett to my hand & seale this 26th day of July, one thousand, six hundred eighty & seven. Annoq Regni Regis Jacobi Secundi Tertio: to be understood & is the true meaning hereof before signing and sealing that in case ye sd Margaret survive ye sd Robert her husband the possession, use & enjoyment of the premises without interuption or molestation during her natural life is hereby reserved: and alsoe ye words (given to Mary Salmon) interlined before the signing. Signed, sealed & dd. the mark) of in pr'sence of us Benjamin Asby Margarett Fuller. a Seale. John Stacey Margarett Fuller personally apearing acknowledged ye above written instrument to be his act & deed, this 26 : day of July Recorded Jan. 7, 1687/8 1687, before me E. C. Deeds 8:5 Bartholmew Gedney, one of ye Councill.

ROBERT AND MARGARET FULLER TO MARY SALMON, July 26, 1687. To all Christian people to whome these presents shall come: Robert Fuller of Salem and Margarett his wife, sendeth greeting, whereas ye sd Margarett ye present wife of sd Robert Fuller, before her marriage with ye sd Robert Fuller, adopted and tooke Mary Salmon in her childhood, accounting & esteeming her as her owne child, & hath brought up & maintained her untill now, she being now at ye age of nineteen yeares, who hath behaved her selfe well and dutifully unto us: Know yee that wee ye sd Robert Fuller & Margaret Fuller in consideracon of ye true love & afection yt we bare unto ye aforesd Mary Salmon as alsoe for other good co uses and consideracons us att this present especialy moveing: have given, granted, & do by these presents give, grant & confirme unto ye aforesd Mary Salmon, all yt our ten acre Iott scituate in the north feild, comonly called by ye name of Veren's Iott (z}, bounded northerly with Cow house river, westerly with ye comon or highway, southerly with ye other Iott belonging to the sd Robert & Margaret Fuller, northwest on Cantleberries Iott. To have & to hold ye sd ten acres of land be it more or less, so bounded as abovesd on ye other Iott of sd Fuller southerly, as to make both the lotts cquall in quantity, with all ye profits, privilidges & appurtenances unto sd ten acre Iott belonging, unto sd Mary Salmon & to her hiers, executors, administrators &

(z) The Veren lot was conveyed to Christopher Waller by Richard Leach on August 10, 1667. Cf: E. C. Deeds 6:9. 68 ROBERT 1 FULLER assignes forever, provided, and this to be so understood, that we reserve to ourselves ye possession of ye above menconed land to ourselves during the term of our naturall lives, with the free and interupted use thereof, the sd Mary Salmon to enter upon ye same after our decease: and wee the abovesaid Robert and Margarett, the sd land with its appurtenances to ye sd Mary will warrant & defend, hereby obliging our heirs, executors & assignes thereunto against all persons laying claime unto ye premisses, by, from or under us, our heirs or assignes forever, excepting only the use reserved as above sd: and we the said Robert and Margaret doe also hereby give & grant unto ye sd Mary Salmon one bed, bedsted & furniture, she to be possest thereof after our decease. In wittness whereof we have hereunto sett our hands and seales this 26th day of July, one thousand six hundred eighty & seven. Anno qr Regni Regis Jacobi Secundi Tertio. Signed, sealed Robert Fuller & a seale & delivered in the marke of presence of us Margaret () Fuller a seale. Benjamin Ashby John Stacy Robert Fuller and Margarett Fuller per­ sonally appearing acknowledged ye above written instrument to be their act & deed, Recorded: this 26th day of July 1687. January 6th, 1687/8 before me Bartho: Gedney E. C. Deeds 8:4 one of ye Councill

ROBERT AND MARGARET FULLER TO NATHANIEL FELTON, August 8, 1687. To all Christian people to whom these presents shall come Robert Fuller of Salem & Margarett his wife Sendeth Greeting: Know ye that the said Robert Fuller & Margarett ffuller for & in consideracon of a valuable Sume to them in hand paid before Ensealing & delivery of these presents by Nathaniel ffelton Senr of ye same towne yeoman, have bargained & sold & doe by these presents Give Grant bargain sell aliene assigne set over & confirme unto ye said Nathaniel ffelton & his hiers Executors Administrators & assignes a certain parcel! of salt marsh & creek thatch Scituate in Salem aforesd in ye North field. In quantity about two acres be it more or less & is butted and bounded on ye Northwest with a white thorne tree at ye upland of ye said ffuller & soe straight to a Rock in ye River northerly Cow house River & Easterly with ye marsh of said Felton. To have & to hold said parcell of marsh with all ye profits priviledges & appurtenances thereto belonging to ye said Nathaniel ffel ton his hiers & assignes to his & thier owne proper use & behoofe for Ever. And ye said Robert ffuller & Margaret Fuller doe further covenant & promise to & with ye said Nathaniel ffelton his hiers or assignes that they the said Robert & Margaret are true & proper Owners of ye premises at ye Time of ye bargaine & sale thereof & that they have full power & lawful! Authority in their owne names to bargaine sell & ROBERT 1 FULLER 69 convey the same as aforesd & that they will warrant & defend & ye peaceable possession Maintaine of ye bargained premises unto ye said Nathaniel ffelton his hiers & assignes against all persons whatsoever laying claime thereunto by from or under them or Either of them thier hiers or assignes. In Witness whereof the said Robert & Margarett Fuller have hereunto set thier hands & seales this Eighth Day of August in ye yeare of Our Lord One thousand Six hundred Eighty & Seven, Annoqr Regni Regis Jacobi Secundi Tertio. Robert Fuller & a Seale Signed Sealed & delivered ye marke of in psence of us Margaret3 Fuller & a Seale Jonathan Putnam John Stacey Robert Fuller & Margaret ffuller per­ sonally appearing acknowledged the above written instrument to be their act & deed Recorded: this 8th Day of August 1687. Augt 13th I 697 before me E. C. Deeds 12:36 Bartho Gedney, one of the Councill.

ROBERT AND MARGARET FULLER TO JACOB MANNING, February 26, 1696/7 Know all men by these presents that I Robert Fuller of Salem in ye County of Essex in New England, bricklayer, & Margaret Fuller my wife, for & in consideration ofye Sume of Sixty & five pounds currant money of New England to us in hand well and truly paid by Leiut Jacob Manning of Salem aforesd Gunsmith, ye receipt whereof wee hereby acknowledge & ourselves therewith fully satisfied contented & paid, have bargained & sold & doe by these presents Give Grant bargain sell aliene assigne set over & Confirme unto ye said Jacob Manning his heirs Executors Administrators and assignes For Ever all that our homestead consisting of a dwelling house barne & about Ten acres of land part of which is an Orchard, be ye same more or less, butted & bounded as Followeth; on ye Northeast with some thatch bankes or Salt Marsh of Leiut Fe.ltons, on ye Northwest with ye Iott hereafter mentioned in this Deed & South Easterly with ye said Leiut Feltons upland, and west southerly with ye Comon or Highway or however otherwise bounded or reported to be bounded. To have & to hold ye said dwelling house barne Orchard & Ten acres of land with all & singular ye Trees fences Rocks Stones mines mineralls waters water courses wayes Easements with all other priviledges & appurtenances thereunto belonging or any wayes appertaining unto him ye said Jacob Manning his hiers & assignes For Ever & Furthermore wee ye said Robert & Margarett Fuller for ye Consideration abovesd doe hereby alsoe Give Grant Sell Convey & Confirm unto ye said Jacob Manning his hiers & assignes Ten acres of Land more adjoyning to ye above bargained homestead being all Scituate lying & being in ye Township of Salem aforesd in a place knowne by ye name of ye North Field or Neck, being butted & bounded as Followeth; on ye Northeast with ye River, on ye Norwest -...J 0 (DANVERS) (BEVERLY) 1752 1668

''-- -_, ___"

-----r0:~>i~.·.,., , ,1 \ \,_, .., r,,, ~- -- i,, ,,,,, ::x:, ,--~, 0 / '­ I / co 10 acres each / ' ' m \ -r;, ::x:, \ -; ~ NORTH FIELD SECTION ORIGINAL oj "Tl \ C r I r I m (PEABODY) ::x:, 1868 I I SALEM r-J 16,0 a. Cant-lebury lo~ 1660- / I b. Veren lot 1660: R.&M.ruLLER 1687/ I c. Leach lot 1660: R.& M. FuL.t.ER 1~1 d Felton lot 1667 / PROBABLE LOCATION oj * now called Worers River I / 'ROBERT & MARGARET Fl.JLLER LAND / / 1687 Ha.-bo>" / -~ / / ROBERT1 FULLER 71 with ye land formerly Canterburyes, on ye west Southerly partly ye Comon and partly an old Orchard of sd Canterburyes, & on ye South Easterly with ye Lott abovementioned & conveyed or however otherwise butted. To have & to hold ye same with all & singular ye Trees fences priviledges & appurtenances Thereunto belonging unto him ye said Jacob Manning his hiers & assignes For & during ye Terme of our Naturall liues & ye longest liuer of Either of us ye said Robert & Margaret, & at ye decease of both of us to Revert to Mary Sammons unto whome wee formerly Gave ye reversion thereof to be to her & her hie rs For Ever, & wee ye said Robert & Margarett Fuller doe for our selves our hiers and administrators Covenant promise Grant & agree to & with ye said Jacob Manning his hiers Executors adms & assignes that wee are ye true & Rightful] Owners of ye bargained premises & Every part thereof & have good Right & Lawful] Authority to sell and dispose of ye same as aforsd & that ye same is free from all manner of Encumbrance whatsoever & that wee shall & will warrant acquit & defend ye peaceable possession of ye bargained premises Respectively as beforesd unto ye said Jacob Manning his hiers & assignes From Time to Time & att all Times For Ever hereafter. In Testimoney whereof wee have hereunto afixed our hands & Seales this 26th Day of February 1696/7, Annoqr RRs Gulielmi Tertij Anglia &c. Signed Sealed & Delivered Robert Fuller & a seale In psence of us Signum Samuel Gardner Margare:,.9 Fuller & a seale Nathaniel Felton Senr John Foster Robert Fuller of Salem Bricklayer & Margaret Fuller wife of ye said Robert Fuller personaly appeared before me ye subscriber One of his Majties Justices of ye peace for ye County of Essex & both of them acknow­ Recorded: ledged the within written instrument with March 30th, 1697 their hands & seal es to be their act & Deed at E. C. Deeds 11:226 Salem 3d March 1696/7.

ROBERT FULLER TO HIS ELDEST SON JONATHAN, May 28, 1696 The following deed for 1-7/8 acres of salt meadow in Rehoboth is a tracing of the original deed which is written on page 194 of Book II, Rehoboth Land Records at Taunton. This was the actual deed and not a copy. The signature of Robert and that of his youngest son, Benjamin, are the only genuine signatures of these early ancestors I have been able to find. The extra fancy strokes and curves of Benjamin's "B" were apparently enough to challenge William Carpenter, the Clerk, to embellish his ordinarily plain "W" and "C." This deed will be recognized as the other half of salt meadow mentioned in Robert's deed to Benjamin December l, 1679. 72 ROBERT 1 FULLER

The exact wording of this deed is: Knowe all men by theise prsents that I Robert ffuller of the Towne of Salem in the County of Esex in the province of theMassachusets Bay in New England Bricklayer ffor good grounds moveing me thereunto & out of Affection to my Eldest Son Jonathan ffuller of the Towne of Rehoboth in the County of Bristoll doe by theise presents acknowledge that I have given to my said Son the one halfe of my salt meadow Lyeing in Rehoboth being one acre & three quarters & halfe a quarter be it more or les & doe herby Confirme & asure the said meadow to him the said Jonathan ffuller his heires executors administratrs & assigns by theise prsents for ever: witnes my hand this twenty eight day of May one thousand six Hundred Ninty & six & in the eight yeare of his Majestes Raigne. Signed in the prsence of us Benjamen ffuller Robert ffuller Josiah Carpenter the above mentioned meadowe Robert ffuller did in my prsence signe & acknowled the gift of said meadow to his son Jonathan ffuller as is attested by me Likewise William Carpenter Clerk ROBE RT 1 FULLER 73

THE BOWEN FAMILY OF EARLY REHOBOTH The interest of the descendants of Robertl Fuller in Richardl Bowen is two-fold - firstly because he was a direct ancestor, and secondly, because it was undoubtedly due to his influence over his son-in-law Robertl Fuller, who married Sarah2 Bowen, that Robert became a proprietor in Rehoboth. As a result seven successive generations of Fullers lived and raised their families in Rehoboth. The following is a brief sketch of Richardl Bowen and his children. Richard was born in Wales about 1590. In 1638 or earlier, Richard and his family of seven children emigrated to New England. It is probable that the family landed first at Salem and lived there for a short time. This may have been the time that Sarah Bowen met and married Robert Fuller, but we can find no recorded proof. Although Robert and Sarah settled in Salem, the rest of the family moved across the bay to Weymouth. The earliest land record of Richardl Bowen is dated 1642 and describes his land holding in Weymouth. It is quoted from the History of Weymouth as follows: Tenn acres Eyght of them upland two of swampe lying in the plaine first given to Thomas White bounded on the East with the land of Martin Phillipes, of Ralph (Allin) on the west, of his owne on the south, a highway on the north. "Two acres of upland and salt marsh first given to Tho White bounded on the East with the comon, on the west with the land of Ralph Allin, on the north with his owne land, on the south with John Uphams marsh. Two acres first giuen to John King bounded on the East west & north with his owne land and of Mr Newman on the south. This allotment totalling fourteen acres implies that Richard was planning to settle permanently in Weymouth. This was not to be the case however, as in 1643, Richardl and his son Richard2 are among the first settlers of Seekonk (later called Rehoboth). Allotment of land in Seekonk to a total of 58 first proprietors was made on the value of each man's estate. Richardl was above average with an estate valued at -b 270. Richard junior, valued at -1: 184 was also above average. Included in this list of earliest proprietors were Richard's sons-in-law, Robert Whea.ton at -1: I 00, and George Kendrick at t 50. A few years later Robert Fuller was included with t 150. Richard's wife, Ann, died soon after the fomily had settkd at Rehoboth. In November 1648. Richard married secondly. at 74 ROBERT 1 FULLER

Weymouth, Elizabeth Marsh, widow of George Marsh of Hingham, who had died July 2, 1647. Richard 1 Bowen was an active leader in organizing the new settlement at Rehoboth. He was elected to various public offices and committees, and his name appears very frequently in the early town records. He acquired considerable land in various parts of the town by participating in the division of the common lands. He was over eighty years old when he died and was buried in Rehoboth on February 4, 1674/5. (R VR 1:52). His will is in the colonial records at Plymouth and was proved June 4, 1675. He bequeathed to his wife Elizabeth and to his sons Obadiah, William, and Richard. (Thomas had died in 1663). He names each daughter with their married name - "to my daughter Ruth Kendricke;" "to my daughter Allice Wheaton;" and "to my daughter Sarah ffuller my warming pan after my wifes decease: and a pewter platter when the will is proved." His son Richard2 was named executor. The inventory totalled -b 175-15-08, of which -b 100 was houses, land, and commonage. The complete will and inventory are recorded in Plymouth Colony Wills, Vol. Ill, pp. 147-149. The seven children of Richard and Ann Bowen are named as follows. The dates of birth are not known and this listing is not necessarily the actual succession of birth. All were born in Wales, England. SARAH born c.1616. Married Robertl Fuller. She was buried in Rehoboth October 14, 1676. ALICE born c.1618. Married (perhaps in Salem), Robert Wheaton who was born in 1605 in Wales; came to Salem in 1636; a proprietor of Rehoboth in 1643. He died intestate at Rehoboth in 1696 at age ninety. Alice was not living on May 31, 1698, as she is not mentioned in the agreement of that date which divided Robert Wheaton's estate among the children. They had ten children, the first three probably born in Salem and the last seven are recorded in Rehoboth. RUTH born c.1622. Married George Kendrick about 1646. They had eight children all born in Rehoboth. OBADIAH born c.1624. Married Mary Clifton. Was a "second rank" inhabitant of Swansea. Died in 1709 or 1710. THOMAS born c.1627. Perley in his History of Salem, Vol. II, p. 185, says that Thomas was a planter and ROBERT1 FULLER 75

fisherman. He was in Marblehead as early as 1642. He was fined in Salem court in 164 7. His wife was named Elizabeth. They lived in New London from 1657 to 1660 and then moved to Rehoboth, where he died in 1663. His will dated April 11, 1663, names his wife Elizabeth as executrix, and his "brother-in-law Robert Fuller" as one of the two overseers (Mayflower Descendant) Vol 16, p. 128. Thomas and Elizabeth Bowen had a son Richard who was about thirteen years old when his father died. He became a doctor and lived in Rehoboth. Thomas' widow, Elizabeth, married as his second wife, Rev. Samuel2 Fuller of Middleborough, and had three children - Elizabeth, Hannah, and Isaac. She died at Plympton November 11, 1713. WILLIAM born c.1630. He did not marry. Buried at Rehoboth March 7, 1687. A detailed disposition of his estate is recorded in Bristol County Deeds, Book I, pp. 66, 6 7. His lands and buildings were given to his brothers Obadiah and Richard, and to his nephews John, Richard, and Doctor Richard. His sisters, Alice Wheaton, and Ruth Kendrick, and also his neice Elizabeth were given specific items of his personal property. The family relationships were clearly stated in this document. "Elizabeth Wheeleck, ye daughter of Robert Fuller, formerly of sd Rehoboth ye said woman being ye nephew of deceased William Bowen." Elizabeth's first husband was Nehemiah Sabin who was killed by the Indians in 167 6. After marrying Wheelock she had moved to Mendon where she died January 11, 1688/9. RICHARD2 born about 1632. Married first, Esther Sutton on March 4, 1655. They had five children (RVR 1:2). Esther died in 1688. Richard married secondly, Martha (Allen) Sabin, second wife and widow of William Sabin. Richard and Martha Bowen had no children. Richard died March 25, 1722/3 at Rehoboth. His will, dated April 12, 1718, is recorded at Bristol County Probate in book 4, pages 174 - 177. Martha died in 1735 at age 94. 76 ROBERT1 FULLER

Three generations after Richard! and Ann Bowen, their great-granddaughter, Dorothy Willmarth, married their great-grandson, Samue13 Fuller, and became the progenitors of the Timothy4 line.

RICHARD! and ANN BOWEN

Ruth2 Bowen m. George Kendrick Sarah2 Bowen m. Robert! Fuller I ~ Ruth Kendrick m. John Willmarth Samuel2 Fuller m. Mary Ide

Dorothy3 Willmarth - - married - - Samuel3 Fuller

Timothy4 Fuller CHAPTERIII

SAMUEL 2 FULLER ca 1649 - 1676

Although very little can be found concerning Samuel2, one record is of major importance. This is the inventory of his estate which names his father as Robert Fuller. The inventory is quoted verbatim at the end of this chapter and a certified photocopy is reproduced there. Other records concerning Samuel are also quoted. Samuel was the fourth child and third son of Robert and Sarah (Bowen) Fuller, presumably born about 1649 while they were living in Salem. The family moved to Rehoboth in 1650, or shortly thereafter, and settled in their new house located at the south-western end of the "Ring of the Green" on Seekonk plain (now East Providence, R.I.). Robert and Alice Wheaton's home lot adjoined the Fullers on the south. They had a family of ten children who were cousins of the Fullers as Alice Wheaton and Sarah Fuller were sisters. Most of the settlers in the new community had large families and there seems to have been no lack of young companions for the Fuller children during their early years. Rehoboth was the first town in New England to have free schooli11g paid for by taxes. Young Samuel had the opportunity to obtain a simple but basic education. On Sundays he probably attended the religious teaching of Rev. Newman in the first meeting house, located nearby in the center of the green. Like other boys growing up in the country, he doubtless had to do an increasing share of farm work as he became older. Living only a mile or two from the Pawtucket River and Narragansett Bay, he perhaps became interested in learning to sail ships. Rehoboth in its early days was active as a shipping port, as the western boundary of Rehoboth originally was the Pawtucket River. Samuel2 has been called "captain" by several writers, but I can find no documentary evidence to confirm this title. His name is not

77 78 SAMUEL2 FULLER recorded as a military captain by Bodge in his Soldiers in King Philip's War. There is the possibility of confusing Samuel2 with Captain Mathew Fuller, who is occasionally referred to as just Captain Fuller in the stories of King Philip's war. Mathew campaigned in the Rehoboth area on several occasions. He was a Barnstable man, and his family and their descendants have been well authenticated. In any event, we do not need the title of captain to positively identify Samuel2. Samuel's Marriage The earliest Rehoboth town record of Samuel is his marriage on December 12, 1673, to Mary Ide. Mary was born in Rehoboth December 10, 1649, the oldest daughter of Nicholas and Martha (Bliss) Ide who had a family of ten children. Nicholas Ide's home lot was the second one north of Robert Fuller's, with Lieutenant Peter Hunt's family in between. Samuel's Land at Palmer River At or about the time of Samuel's marriage to Mary, his father gave him 17 acres of upland with a small piece of adjacent meadow in the Palmer River area. This was five or six miles southeast of the "Ring of the Green". This section of Rehoboth had been "lotted out" some years previously, and Robert had acquired several tracts through his Commonage Rights. There is no record of this transfer to Samuel, but as will be noted in the chapter on Robert, he was very generous in giving his Rehoboth lands to his sons and grandsons. The only proof of this gift of 17 acres is that it appears in Samuel's inventory three years later. Also, Samuel's name is included in the 167 4 Rehoboth tax list, which indicates that he had acquired land about then. ( a) Due to the increasing unrest among the Indians, and the uncertainty of events to come, there were very few homes established in the Palmer River area in 1674. There was no protection for an isolated family in this exposed area. From the inventory of Samuel's estate it seems certain that he did not attempt to build his house there at that time, as the inventory does not mention a house or buildings, nor does it include the usual items associated with an established household. The wisest thing for Samuel to have done, under the circumstances, was to bring his bride

(a) Rehoboth Rate Book II, p. 13. SAMUEL2 FULLER 79 home to live with his father and mother. His youngest brother, Benjamin, age 16, would be living with his parents, and very possibly his sister Abigail, age about 20, but there would have been room for all. Samuel's help in running the farm would certainly have been welcome to his father. Possibly the gift of land at Palmer River was the result of the help Samuel had given in previous years. Samuel, however, seems to have been somewhat concerned about not ha'ling a home of his own as one of the items taken up at a town meeting held February 11, 1675, was recorded as follows: It was voted and agreed upon by all that was present that Saml ffuller should have a tract of land to build upon upon the neck about two akers or five akers and a halfe and a commity to lay it out if it may not be predudiciall to the Town or any of the neighbors: those that were present giving only their owne right of that land, Sarni ffuller ingaging to get the rights of others absent: and if he build not upon it not to have it. This land "upon the neck" had been previously allotted to other proprietors and it was up to Samuel to talk with the owners if he was to obtain sufficient acreage for a farm. The records do not show that he succeeded. The "neck" was west of the Rehoboth settlement and may have been within the general protection area of the town. King Philip's War Toward the end of June 1675, King Philip's war broke out in nearby Swansea and Rehoboth quickly became involved. Indian-type warfare meant minor and major harrassments, silent ambush, war whoops, and surprise raids by motley bands of roving Indians bent on killing and destruction. They had guns and knew how to use them, but the silent arrows were equally effective. As the war rapidly intensified, Plymouth offered Rehoboth and other exposed towns the opportunity to move their inhabitants to more secure locations, but all refused. Instead they moved into garrisoned houses with their most valued possessions and their food supplies. There were four such fortified houses in Rehoboth, the nearest for Samuel and his family being Rev. Noah Newman's house. Living conditions were, of course, difficult with 50 or 60 men, women and children in this house built for 10 or 12. At night they were crowded together, sleeping on straw or blankets strewn over the floors. The sleepers were frequently awakened by the crying of small children, or the changing of the guards at the shuttered windows and doors. Under 80 SAMUEL2 FULLER such conditions the nights must have been interminably long, and the morale low. However, even under these and many other hardships, Rehoboth people survived the winter of 1675-76 without a major catastrophe. Indians Burn Rehoboth On the morning of March 28, 1676, a large force of about 1500 Indians appeared in Rehoboth. Since most of the inhabitants of the town remained out of sight in the garrisoned houses, the savages were unhampered in their orgy of destruction. They burned deserted houses, barns, and mills: dug up hidden stores of food; drove off cattle, sheep and horses. They left the town a smoking wreck. A total of 69 buildings were burned that day. On June 16, eight more buildings were burned, and later burnings brought the total to 85. There were 90 known buildings in Rehoboth prior to the start of the war. Of five remaining unburned, four were the garrison houses, and the fifth was Robert Fuller's at the south end of the "Ring of the Green" (b). Robert's house was probably spared because black sticks had been arranged around the house to give the appearance of being strongly guarded. These "black sticks" were doubtless small tree trunks or poles driven into the ground, giving the appearance of a palisade. It was a worthy idea of either Robert or Samuel as it succeeded in saving their house. We have no knowledge to indicate that the Fullers remained in their house at any time during the preceeding winter or during the time of the Indian raids. They probably would have preferred the safety of the garrison house at least at nighttime. Philip is Killed With the advancing months of the spring and summer of 1676, the tide of the war was turning rapidly against the Indians throughout the colonies. On August 12, Philip was captured and killed at his old camping ground, Mount Hope (now Bristol, R.I.). King Philip's captain and chief councillor Annawan, with his band of 50 or more warriors, retreated to a hiding place at the northern end of Squannakonk swamp in Rehoboth. He and his men were captured and disarmed August 28, 167 6. This practically ended the war in Plymouth Colony territory although for many months afterwards small bands of revengeful Indians, with unsatisfied desire to kill and destroy, continued to roam throughout the area.

(b) Cf: Bowen's Early Rehoboth, Vol. I, p. 113. SAMUEL2 FULLER 81

Samuel's Death In between the capture and death of Philip, and the capture of Annawan, we find that Samuei2 was killed. He was about 27 years old. His death is recorded: Samuel ffuler buried ye 15th of August 1676.

There is nothing in the records to tell us how or where he lost his life. We might surmise from the last item in the inventory of his estate, "a hand saw and 6 load of cedar att the swamp", that he was killed while cutting cedar to be used in building a house on his land at Palmer River. There were several cedar swamps on the eastern side of Rehoboth, but the Squannakonk swamp containing over 1000 acres, was probably the most convenient for Samuel. It is practically certain that he would not have known of Annawan's retreat to the northern end of this large swamp. In that wild and unsettled area, Annawan's warriors would have been free to roam. Samuel could have been the victim of an ambush or a surprise att:ick at the swamp, or in fact almost anywhere along his journey of seven or eight miles through the woods after leaving his father's house at the "Ring of the Green". About a week later, his older brother John was also killed, perhaps in the same manner. He too had land remote from the "Ring of the Green". The tragic loss of these two young sons must have caused great sadness in Robert and Sarah's home.

SAMUEL'S ESTA TE In the settlement of Samuel's estate, the only recorded document is the inventory. This was taken promptly, as was the custom and detailed with care. No item, large or small, was apt to be overlooked. This inventory of Samuel's personal property and real estate includes everything he possessed at the time of his death. No value was placed on the land, perhaps because the appraisers thought it unwise to venture into that area of town as long as the Indians were still active. Widow Mary testified to the truth of the inventory on November 17, 1676, just eight days before her son SamucJ3 was born. It was not until July 3, 1677, that the Plymouth Court appointed administrators for the estate: Letters of adminnestration was grauntcd unto Robert Fuller of Rehoboth, and Nicholas Ide Senr, on the estate of Samuel Fuller of Rehoboth, dcceasd. 82 SAMUEL2 FULLER

There is no record to show how the estate was administered. As there were no recorded children at the time of Samuel's death the entire estate would go to Mary. There was no will to probate. Very likely no final accounting to the Court was necessary. Under date of January 26, 1676/77, widow Mary Fuller is recorded as giving t 00-12-00 to the town to help defray the expenses of King Philip's war.

The Inventory of Samuel's Estate Considerable information is revealed by the inventory. He was well provided with home-spun clothing. He had accumulated raw cotton, wool, and flax, some of it already twisted into yarn, in preparation of making more clothing. Spinning and weaving equipment he did not possess but he could have used his father's. He had the necessary bed clothing for one bed but no bedstead. His only piece of furniture seems to have been a chest, which was probably used for storing clothing. He was well supplied with corn and rye grain for the coming winter. It would be interesting to know just how he had accumulated such a good supply, as crops of the previous summer had been pretty much destroyed by the Indians, and Rehoboth people were facing a winter of near famine. His library consisted of the bible. This was the usual single book in any family. It served as their religious guide and also as the advanced reading book in school. His musket, with powder and bullets, was a necessity of the times. He may or may not have done active fighting with the local militia, but he certainly would have done his share of guard duty at the garrison house. For working tools he had acquired a whipsaw (a long saw used to saw out boards from timber), a mason's hammer which his father probably gave him, a lathing hammer, an awl, and a hand saw. The saws of the early settlers, brought over from England, were coarse toothed. He would need other tools to split his cedar logs into clapboards or shingles for his house, but these he could borrow. The "parcel of burnt (rusty) iron hooks and hinges" were items he doubtless planned to use somewhere in the house. His cow and calf and the yearling (horse) must have escaped the raids by the Indians during the previous months. Perhaps they had been safely kept behind the "black stick" palisade around his father's house. He appears to have been very fortunate in this respect. SAMUEL2 FULLER 83 84 SAMUEL2 FULLER

The inventory tells a story of a young married man, with modest accumulation of personal property, preparing for the time when he could proceed to build and live in his own home. As genealogical evidence the inventory and administration records are of great importance. The latter prove that Robert and Samuel were of Rehoboth. Nicholas Ide, Sr., we know was Mary's father. We have the recorded date of Samuel's marriage to Mary Ide. We have the recorded date of his burial which could be the same day he died or the day after, as burials were made without delay. Missing is documentation of the place and date of his birth, but the inventory proves that his father was Robert Fuller.

An Inventory of Samuell ffuller taken this 29 of August 1676 lb s d Item his wearing apparrell one Cloth suite 01 = 00 - 00 Item serge Coate and briches and Jackett 02 = 10 - 0 Item more one serge suite 00 = 16 - 0 Item 1 old suite of Clothes 2 pa ire of drawers 0]=00-0 Item 2 hatts and shirts and stockens 00=12-0 Item 1 feather bed I bolster 1 pillow 02 = 05 - 0 Item I Rugg 1 blankett 1 sheet 02 = 07 - 0 Item 6 pound of Cotton wool & a pillow Case 00=15-0 Item a smale prsell of fflax 00 = 04 -0 Item a prsell of linne (]e-t-fl. yerne 00=10-0 Item a prsell of woolen yearne 00 = 08 - 0 Item a little sheepes woole 00 = 01 - 6 Item a masons hamer 00 = 01 - 6 Item 1 match locke Muskett 00 = 12 - 0 I tern powder and bulletts 00 = 03 - 0 Item a paire of Cotton Cards 00 = 02 - 0 Item a whipsaw 00 = 10 -0 Item 1 Chest 00 = 08 - 0 Item an old saddle a paire of Mittens an old blankett and letheren appron 00=15-0 Item six skaines and an halfe of Cotton yerne 00 = 08 - 0 Item I bible 00 = 06 - 0 Item a prscll of burnt Iron hookes & hinges 00 = 05 - 0 Item 1 Cow and Calf 04 = 00 - 0 Item 1 yeerling and the third prte of a beaff 01=10-0 Item 17 acrees of land att Palmers River one prsell of ffresh mcddow att Palmcrs River SAMUEL2 FULLER 85 which Containes about two thirds of the whole peece which was his fathers : viz : Robertt ffullers on the south syde of the peece; Item a Lathing hamer and Cotten yerne and an aule 00 = 4 - 6 In Indian Corne 23 Bushells And in Rye 15 bushells and a hand saw and 6 load of Cedar att the swamp 01=18-0 Aprissed by the sume 24 = 14 - 6 henery Smith Daniell Smith Mary ffuller the Relict of the deceased Samuell ffuller made oath to the truth of this Inventory the 17th of November 1676 before mee James Browne Assistant

Plymouth Colony Wills,Vol. III, p. 47. 86 SAMUEL2 FULLER

IDE FAMILY OF EARLY REHOBOTH Nicholasl Ide of Daventry, England, died there about 1630. His widow (maiden name unknown) married Thomasl Bliss. They came to New England in 1635 or 1636, with her son Nicholas2 Ide. One of Thomas Bliss' children by his first wife, Dorothy Wheatlie, was Martha Bliss who came to America with her father and stepmother. It is probable that the other Bliss and Ide children came on the same voyage. They first lived in Braintree. In 1639 or 1640, they moved to Weymouth and were members of Rev. Samuel Newman's church. In 1643, Thomas Bliss and his family, including Nicholas2 Ide, moved to Seekonk and were among the first proprietors of the new town. Nicholas2 Ide, born in England about 1624, married Martha2 Bliss in 1646. They had a family of ten children. Martha died in Rehoboth and was buried there November 3, 1676. Her birth date is unknown. Nicholas2 died in Rehoboth October I 8, 1690. Children of Nicholas2 and Martha (Bliss) Ide all born in Rehoboth, R VR 1 : 19 Nathaniel b. 1647 MARY b. December 10, 1649. d. March 25, 1718. ml. December 12, 1673, SAMUEL2 FULLER. They had one child, SAMUEL3 FULLER, b. November 25, 1676. m2. December 27, 1677, John Redway, who was b. December 10, 1644, and d. March 26, 1718, the day after Mary died, presumably victims of an epidemic. The Redways had four children: James, John, Preserved, and Martha. John b. December 1652 Nicholas b. November 1654 Martha b. October 1656 Elizabeth b. April 6, 1658 Timothy b. October 1660 Dorothy b. May 11, 1662 Patience b.May25, 1664 Experiance b. October 1665 Nicholas2 Ide was the great-great-grandfather of both Timothy5 Fuller and of his wife, Mary (Molly) Medbury, who were married in Rehoboth May 12, 1791. Cf: Chapter VI. CHAPTERIV

SAMUEL 3 FULLER 1676-1724

"Samuel ffuller ye son of Samuel ffuller born ye 25 November 1676." The birth of SamueP re-established this Fuller lineage three months and ten days after the date of his father's burial. It is very probable that he was born in his grandfather Robert's house which the Indians had failed to destroy. The household at this time consisted of grandfather Robert and his youngest son Benjamin, age 19, and Samuel's mother Mary. The family had been saddened by the recent loss of grandmother Sarah, who presumably was killed by the Indians and was buried October 14th. This household was soon to be changed by the following events: in the late fall of 1677 Robert returned to Salem. where he remarried and remained for about twenty years: son Benjamin also appears to have gone to Salem and did not return to live in Rehoboth until 1694; widow Mary, on December 27, 1677, married John2 Redway and, with baby Samuel, moved into John's newly acquired house in the Palmer river section of Rehoboth. It was evidently anticipated that Robert's house would be vacant that winter, as at the town meeting held November 13, 1677 - It was also agreed upon that Jonathan ffuller should write to his ffather to see if his house or part of it might be attained for to keep school this winter. The town records do not show whether it was "attained" or not but none of the Fullers returned to live in this house. Samuel's Step-father, John Redway John2 Redway ( a) was a carpenter by trade. He had been a soldier in King Philip's war and was wounded at the Narragansett Fort Battle

(a) A detailed genealogy of the Redway family is given in Chapter 8 of Bowen's Ear/_Y Rehoboth, Vol. I. 87 88 SAMUEL3 FULLER

December 1675. The Red ways had acquired considerable acreage of land in the Palmer river section, and John's brother James had already built a house there. James died intestate and was buried October 18, 1676. An inventory taken March 7, 1676/7 appraised his estate at E 67-02-05. The largest item was his house valued at t 45. There is no Rehoboth record of his marriage. The court ruled that brother John should have two shares and his three sisters one share apiece. (b) The sisters were married and had homes of their own. We can only assume that John would want the house in view of his thoughts about future marriage and would work out an arrangement with his sisters accordingly. About seven years later John's father, Jamesl Redway, died. In his will he gave John his house, barn, cattle, chattels, and whatever. Most, if not all, of the very considerable acreage in the Palmer river area which had been acquired by the Redway family was then in John's possession. Mary (Ide) (Fuller) and John2 Redway had four children. Samuel grew up with his half-brothers James, John, and Preserved Redway, and his half-sister Martha, the youngest, born in 1687. Grandfather Robert Deeds Land to Samuel When Samuel was about 2½ years old his grandfather Robert, on May 20, 1679, deeded him 25 acres of upland and meadow on the west side of Palmer river, and in the same deed gave him -b 50 in Commonage Rights in the town of Rehoboth. The land and Commonage were to be held in trust by his mother until Samuel became 21 years old. This early deed is quoted in full in the chapter on Robert. Genealogically it is an important document, as it names Samuel as Robert's grandchild and calls Mary Redway his daughter-in-law. Samuel held the E 50 Commonage throughout his lifetime, and acquired 65 acres of land with it. The gift of this deed from his grandfather thus resulted in a total of 90 acres for Samuel, or about three fourths of his ultimate land holdings. Samuel's Schooling Samuel's schooling was probably very little better than that of his father. We know he learned to write his name, rather than have to make his "mark" as so many people in that era had to do when signing a document. Rehoboth records show increasing effort to promote (b) Plymouth Colony Wills, Vol. III, p. 17. SAMUEL3 FULLER 89 education by employing a school teacher for at least six months each year. In December 1699 it was recorded that the teacher was to keep school for six months beginning December 7th, and "to do his utmost endeavor to teach both sexes of boys and girls to read English and write and cast accounts." For this he was paid -b 13. Samuel had completed his own schooling by this time, but the entry seems to cover the standard curriculum of early Rehoboth. The teacher's time was divided to teach in several parts of town. The inhabitants in each part of the town were required to "provide a convenient place for the school master to keep schqol in." Textbooks for the pupils in these early years were almost non-existent. Some made their own note-book by folding sheets of blank paper and sewing them together in the middle. In this way they recorded their basic education for further study. Historical Events During Samuel's Boyhood In Samuel's boyhood years events of great importance to early Rehoboth took place. Some of these events were to strongly influence Samuel's prosperity in years to follow. In 1686, King James II united all of the New England colonies and set up a new government under the title "Dominion of New England." Sir Edmund Andros was appointed Royal Governor of the Dominion. The colonies were denied their former rights, including their right to vote taxes. Each town was notified annually of the amount of money it must send to Boston, and these sums were much higher than the taxpayers had been accustomed to paying. The people were told that their land titles were worthless and that they must bring their deeds to Boston and pay to have them confirmed. These and other troubles lasted until King James was forced from the throne in 1689. The people of Boston put Andros in jail and shortly afterwards sent him back to England as a prisoner. These years under the Dominion status were enough to make people afraid that their liberties in government were subject to further curtailment. The requirement of having their land titles confirmed in Boston very likely caused the Plymouth Colony people to realize that the legal status of their property was not fundamentally clear. Plymouth Colony never had a Royal Charter, and had no basis for existence legally other than a patent from a long defunct trading company. King Charles I, in 1629, had given the title to all Plymouth Colony lands to Governor William Bradford. On May 9, 1657, Bradford died with this deed still in his name. The title 90 SAMUEL3 FULLER

accordingly descended to his son and heir, Major William Bradford, who made no move to release his ownership of the various towns concerned until 1689, when a series of deeds was concluded. The quit claim deed to the Proprietors, Inhabitants, etc., of Rehoboth, dated December 26, 1689, defined the bounds of the town, and for b 15 released all rights of Major Bradford and his heirs forever. The deed itself was of great importance, but even more important was the complete listing of the individuals who were involved as owners or proprietors. Rehoboth Proprietors List A list of the names of all Rehoboth proprietors (resident and non-resident), and orphans (male children under 21 whose fathers had died), who held Proprietary Rights, was read and approved at a town meeting held February 7, 1689/90. This list was attached to and became part of the Major Bradford deed. ( c) To the genealogist this list is a complete 1689 census of Rehoboth families, containing about 200 names, made with extreme care. The towns of Taunton, Swansea, Dartmouth, and Little Compton each had quit claim deeds from Major Bradford and each deed had an approved list of all proprietors attached. Nowhere else in New England are such accurate lists of all families residing in adjoining townships available, covering so early a period as the last quarter of the 17th century. SamueJ3 then age 12, is on the Rehoboth list under "Orphans" as an inhabitant with Proprietary Rights. Samuel's cousins, John3 and AbialJ3 sons of John2 deceased, were also on the deed list as orphans. Samuel's uncle Jonathan2 the oldest son of Robert, who resided in North Rehoboth, and his three oldest sons, Jonathan Jr., David and Daniel, were all listed as Proprietors and Inhabitants. Listed as Proprietor but not an Inhabitant, was Samuel's uncle Benjamin2, who at that time was living in Salem.

Plymouth Colony Tax Revolt Although title to their lands had now been clarified, the property owners in Rehoboth, like those in all Plymouth Colony towns, were in no financial position to pay the ever increasing tax levies. The large property losses of King Philip's war, and the resultant high taxes to pay for the war, had been followed by even higher taxes under the Andros administration. Additional levies were made by

(c) Cf: Bowen•~ /:'arty Rehoboth, Vol. I, Chapter 3. SAMUEL3 FULLER 91

England to pay for King William's war, and this practically bankrupted the towns financially. In 1690 the taxes reached 17½ percent of the ratable property and the towns were in open revolt. Many towns were not only in arrears in taxes owed Plymouth, but also refused to pay the current assessment. ( d) Lacking a Royal Charter to back its authority, the Plymouth Colony General Court simply quit when the towns openly defied the Court's authority by refusing to pay taxes. When the Court went out of existence, the twenty Plymouth Colony towns were left free to run their affairs as they saw fit. Massachusetts Bay Colony Absorbs Plymouth Colony It was inevitable that the strong Massachusetts Bay Colony, having the backing of a Royal Charter, should take over the weak and financially poor Plymouth Colony. On August 11, 1691, King William approved a new Massachusetts charter which included the old Plymouth Colony. On October 7, 1691 the new charter was signed and sealed, and Plymouth ended its existence as a separate colony and became part of the Province of Massachusetts. This was the beginning of the Provincial Period, which was to last until the start of the American Revolution. On the whole this was a prosperous period in Rehoboth in spite of the unstable currency problems of the new Massachusetts government. Although Samuel3 was in his early 'teens when these historical events transpired, and probably had little comprehension of their importance, he benefited in later years. Rehoboth became a stronger community and retained her position as one of the larger towns in southeastern Massachusetts. Samuel Reaches Age 21 SamueJ3 came "to the age of twenty one yeers" on November 25, 1697, and in accordance with his grandfather Robert's deed of 1679, came into full possession of the 25 acres of upland and meadow on the west side of Palmer river. His Commonage Rights had added five more adjacent acres. In addition, it seems most probable that he received the 17 acres from his father Samuel's estate, although there seems to be no record of such transfer. These 17 acres adjoined his other land and it is very doubtful that his mother, Mary Redway,

(d} Cf: Bowen, "The 1690 Ta, Revolt of Plymouth Colony Towns" in The New E11gla11d Historical a11d c;e11calogical Register, Vol. CXII. 92 SAMUEL3 FULLER would want or need this land in view of the extensive acreage a little farther up the river, owned by her husband. Therefore, Samuel at age 21 appears to have had a total of 4 7 acres, which made a very considerable estate for a young man about to begin his career. He farmed his lands, raised cattle and sheep, and became one of the more prosperous residents of Rehoboth. Samuel's Marriage and Children He was 25 years old when, on December 16, 1701, he married Dorothy Wilmarth. Dorothy was the daughter of John and Ruth (Kendrick) Wilmarth, who resided in the Palmer river area. Through common descent from Richardl and Ann Bowen, Samuel and Dorothy were second cousins. They had nine children, all of whom were born in Rehoboth. The children were: Samuel, Ebenezer, Dorothy, Ruth, TIMOTHY, Mary, the twins Moses and Aaron, and Noah. Samuel and Dorothy have the distinction of having the only twins in this lineage for ten generations. Palmer River People The Palmer river neighborhood where Samuel and Dorothy brought up their large family, had become established as a distinct community. The land was owned largely by second and third generation descendants of the original Rehoboth settlers. Tilton, in his History of Rehoboth, names the families who had settled along the borders of the river: "Following the river up from the Swansea line, we find the Thurbers, the Smiths, the Burrs, the Palmers, the Bullocks, the Allens, the Millers, the Martins, and the Millards: then the Lakes, the Pecks, the Fullers, and the Blisses; still farther up, the Blandings, the Hunts, the Wilmarths, the Carpenters, and the Red ways; then the Wheatons, the Perrys, and the Blisses again." Descendants of other early Rehoboth families had also settled in this area but were not located directly on the river. Samuel's Home Lot and House The descriptions of land boundaries in Samuel's day were no better than in earlier years. It would be most difficult, if not impossible, to determine with certainty the location of Samuel's house and barns. The records show that his property was largely on the west side of Palmer river. Reference is made to "the way that leads to Samuel ffullers," and again, "The Roade that leads to sd Samuell ffullers near SAMUEL3 FULLER 93

Palmers River." In Robert's 1679 deed the highway is on the south side of the 25 acre lot. It is possible that this highway is the present Summer street, and if so, Samuel's home lot would have spread north from Summer street and west from the river. With the help of his step-father who was a carpenter by trade, Samuel's house was doubtless finished and ready for the newlyweds. The traditional house of the times was small but easy to heat with a large fireplace. Perhaps his uncle Benjamin, who was a bricklayer, built the fireplace and oven. Newton Fuller in his Fuller Me,norial, giving the genealogy of the Robert!, Benjamin2 line, says that Samuel's farm remained in the family for one hundred and sixty years. This would indicate that the last Fuller to live there sold it about the year 1836. The house and buildings may have been used for some years after that, but are no longer extant. Samuel's Civic Interests As a large land owner and voter, Samuel· was undoubtedly interested in town affairs. He apparently did not aspire to hold a major town office. The records of elections in Town Meetings Book II reveal that he held the following lesser offices each for one year: Field Driver, March 18, 1705/6 Surveyor of the Highways, January 1, 1706/7 Surveyor of the Highways, March 28, 1709 Second Constable, March 28, 1720 A committee of three to lay out and bound new land was increased to ten members in 1723 and Samuel was one of those added. ( e) He served in Capt. Hunt's Company of Rehoboth Militia, as evidenced on a 1710 manuscript list of members. Duty with the militia required weekly attendance at drill. The men furnished their own equipment and received no remuneration from the town or county. All able bodied men from 18 to 45 years old were required to belong to the militia and train regularly or be fined. Samuel's most noteworthy civic activity was in helping to organize a new Congregational church at Palmer river because they found it difficult to attend the Newman church five miles or more distant. He was one of the ten origianl signers who petitioned the General Court at Boston in 1711, to have the town divided into two separate precincts to support the ministry. Two years later the General Court recommended that Rehoboth raise E 120 for the support of two

(e) Rehoboth Proprietors' J1,,2etings Book, p. 87. 94 SAMUEL3 FULLER

ministers, one of whom would be at Palmer river. The people in the western part of the town opposed this activity which would divert membership from the Newman church, and as a result the town was not finally divided into two precincts until 17 59.

The Palmer River Church However, in 1717, the people at Palmer river gained consent of the General Court to build their own church, which was finished and occupied in 1721. It was located on the present Lake street at a place now marked by the remains of the old burying ground. The church and burying ground occupied a lot of three acres given by Jathaniel Peck and Jonathan Bliss. This location was more convenient not only to the Palmer river people, but to all families in the southeastern part of Rehoboth. This church was an important factor in the development of this growing community. The church was formally organized November 29, l 721 by the ten men who had originally petitioned the General Court in 1711. Their pastor was Rev. David Turner. This church served the eastern part of Rehoboth until October 1773, when a new and larger church (50 x 40 feet), located on the present Village Cemetery grounds, was completed. The Palmer river church was torn down shortly afterwards, by vote of the precinct. Rev. David Turner was a young and talented preacher who graduated from Harvard in 1718. He was the minister at Palmer river for 36 years, and during his pastorate added 171 persons to the church membership. He resided about a mile north of the church and had a large family. He studied medicine and served as a doctor without charge to the people, although in later years the town voted to pay him. He died in 1757, and the church called Rev. Robert Rogerson to be their pastor.

Samuel's Mother Dies On March 25, 1718, Mary (Fuller) Redway died at Rehoboth. The following day her husband John di.cd. Circumstances indicate that John and Mary were victims of an epidemic, probably of small-pox, which took a toll of fourteen lives in March that year. They were probably buried in the Palmer river church cemetery although today there is no stone or marker to locate their graves. Presumably their estate was divided among the then living Redway children: James, Preserved, and Martha. SAMUEL3 FULLER 95

Samuel's Real Estate After he was married, Samuel continued to add to his already extensive acreage, some by outright purchase but even more by use of his Commonage Rights. He made two reports of his holdings to the Proprietors, the first submitted in 1708/9, and a second one was listed in the spring of 1724. These lists complement each other and no item is duplicated. The submission to, and the recording by, the Proprietors' Clerk was equivalent to the registering and recording of deeds by the County Register of Deeds. A summary of his land owned at the time of his death is as follows: By gift of deed from his grandfather ...... 25 acres His father's land ...... 17 acres By purchase ...... 29½ acres By use of Commonage Rights ...... 65 acres Total acquired ...... 136½ acres Sold Sept. 9, 1710, to Samuel Peck ...... :....:....:...acres Final holding in 1724 ...... 127½ acres Samuel's Death Samuel died December 19, 1724 only three years after he had seen the new church organized. Just over 48 years of age, he was in the prime of life. The cause of his death is not known, and we can only assume it was due to an acute disease, or possibly a fatal injury. His will was drawn up and signed just five days before he died, which seems to indicate that he was in serious condition and wasn't expected to live. The early death records almost never give cause of death. Occasionally an epitaph or statement on a gravestone gives a clue, but I can find no gravestone for Samue!3. His was undoubtedly one of the early burials in the Palmer River churchyard on Lake street. This very old burying ground was neglected for many years and became overgrown with large and small trees, brush, weeds, and tangled briars. In 1965 the town voted money to clear up this and other old cemeteries, and a good start was made on the project. Much remains to be done, however, to properly restore these areas for their historical value. There are obvious signs of family lots by the arrangement of currently existing gravestones. What appears to be a lot for several Fuller families is located toward the back end of the cemetery in the northwest corner. The size and arrangement is shown by the sketch on page 97. There is no stone or marker on the right-hand side of Dorothy's gravestone, but 96 SAMUEL3 FULLER there is room for a grave there, and this is probably where Samuel was buried. EST ATE OF SAMUEL3 FULLER Last Will and Testament of Samuel Fuller In the name of God amen: December ye fourteenth day in ye year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred twenty and four: I, Samuel Fuller of Rehoboth in New England yeoman, being sick and weak of body, but of perfect mind and memory, (blessed be God) - therefore calling to mind ye mortality of my body; that it is appointed to all men once to die; and being desireous to settle my affairs do make and ordaine this my last Will and Testament, that is to say primarily and principally, I give and recommend my soul to God that gave it; and my body I recommend to ye Earth to be decently buried at the discretion of my Executors hereafter named; nothing doubting of a glorious Resurrection; and as touching such worldly estate as it haith pleased God to bless me withal in this life, I give, demise, and dispose ofye same in manner following - - Imprimis: My will is that my just debts and funeral charges be first paid out of my estate - - I tern: I give and bequeath to my belovd son Samuel to him and his heirs forever: the easterly half of my home lot, with ye housing and barns thereon standing, and ye sixth parte of my Seder swampe he paying thirty pounds to my belovd daughter Dorithey, which I give to her: and fifteen pounds to my belovd daughter Ruth, which I give to her: and also that he keep for his mother, two cows winter and summer, and find her a horse to ride when she wants: and also yt he find for his mother yearly fourteen bushels of corne, eight of Indian, four of rye, and two of wheat: and twenty pound of wool. Item: I give and bequeath to my belovd son Ebenezer to him and his heirs forever, the westerly half of my home lot and ye sixth parte of my Seder swamp he paying fifteen pounds to my belovd daughter Ruth which I give to her: and thirty pounds to my belovd daughter Mary which I give to her. Item: I give and bequeath to my belovd son Timothey to him and his heirs forever: the land which I bought of ye Coupers with ye land I purchased by bying a highway, and ye meadow that I purchased of Whetons heirs: and ye sixth parte of my Seder swamp: a yoak of steers coming three years old and my young coalt. Item: I give and bequeath to my belovd son Moses, to him and his heirs forever ye one half of my lands westward of my home lot lying between my sd home lot and ye lands of ye widow Lake and Phillip Walker: and ye sixth parte of my Seder swamp. Item: I give and bequeath to my belovd son Aron, to him and his heirs forever, ye other half of my lands lying westward of my home lot aforementioned and ye sixth parte of my Seder swamp. Item: I give and bequeath to my belovd son Noah to him and his heirs forever, thirty acres of land lying near ye Wolfe Plaine adjoyning to ye lands of Capt. FULLER GRAVESTONES

- In:scr-ibed stones PALMER. R.lVE:R CEMETERY - Foot .stone:, 1.AKE STREET, RE"HOBOTH. ~ Unmar-ked rough field stones r======~ Scale. 1f.-= I ft. C.C.F. 1959 t -HF

AF - Cf) T )> ~ C 1. m 7 r I .,,w DF C -T r r c-:::i Q,e l m J>avidJoy AARON I 17&) :0 1139 r:,' a,,.( R.F -8.1:TIHA - -EFT - 17611 I SF T c==> t-faM4k DoROTW(-L I . J SvK«r 1772. 11111 a,e 15' r---1'- + f_' -10½'--++4½'+-st1--, _ _L -1 Sus,.NNA E91:NEl:Elt RAC:l'IEL 177%. 1173 1788 co a el~ - --..J 98 SAMUEL3 FULLER

Hide, and a certain piece of meadow, purchased of Nathaniel Dagget lying up ye river adjoyning to ye lands of James Rediway: and also ye sixth parte of my Seder swamp. Item: I give and bequeath to my belovd wife Dorithey: (not withstanding any bequests before made) ye use of ye best end of my house during her widowhood: and half an acre of land adjoyning to ye house: also twenty trees at which parte of ye orchard she pleases, so yt she take them together: and also ye indore movables to dispose of them among the children when and as she pleases. My will also is that my sons Samuel and Ebenezer have and receive all yt is due my estate: all my stock, and outdore moveables not disposed of otherways: and all other of my estate not particularly mentioned in this my Will: and I do hereby make, constitute and ordaine my belovd sons Samuel and Ebenezer Executors of this my last will and testament: and I do hereby disanull and revoke all other wills and testaments by me made: Ratifying and confirming this and this only to be my last Will and Testament: In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal ye day and date above written. Signed sealed published and declared by ye sd Samii Fuller to be his last Will and Testament In presence of us Benjamin + Wilson John Willmarth Briston ye January the 19, 1724/5 David Turner Then before the Honorable Nathll Blagrove Esqr Judge of the probaite of Wills &c within the County of Bristoll came Benjn Wilson and John Wilmouth two of the witnesses to the above written will of Samuel Fuller late of Rehoboth and made oath that they were present and did see and hear the said deceased signe seal and publish and declare the same to be his last will and testament and that he was of a disposing mind when he did and that att the same time David Turner signed as a witness with them and that they were all signed in the presence of the Testator. Jurat Coram N. Blagrove Stephen Paine, Register. Bristol! ye March ye 6, 1724/5 Entered in the fifth book of wills folio 322:333 sd Stephen Paine, Register

Comments on the Will The original will is filed at Bristol County Registry of Probate in an envelope marked 'Samuel Fuller - 1724 - Rehoboth.' It was recorded in Book 5, but the copyist made many careless mistakes SAMUEL3 FULLER 99 and it should not be used as an accurate reference. Samuel's is the only recorded will in the first five generations of this lineage. It is probable that the young minister, Rev. David Turner, wrote the entire will. The clergymen were the most educated among the early settlers. Because lawyers were scarce, the ministers did many things to help their parishioners, although their legal services were generally confined to wills and deeds. Samuel's will is clearly written, although the ink has faded and the paper yellowed with age. Two neighbors were called in as witnesses, Benjamin Wilson and John Wilmarth, Samuel's brother-in-law. The will specifically disposed of his property to all members of his family. The daughters received a money bequest of L 30 each. This avoided possible future problems of real estate which, according to prevalent law, became the property of her husband when a girl married. Daughters were generally bequeathed something they could use personally such as household articles, clothing, a horse to ride, or money if any was available. The estate was not divided into equal shares as would have been the case if Samuel had died intestate. In such event, according to custom of long standing, this estate would have had fifteen shares. One third, or five shares, would be for the widow; two shares for the oldest son; and one share each for the remaining children. As the inventory value of the estate was L 1024 then the value of each share would be about L 68. The inventory does not give enough detail in arriving at the value of the housing :md lands, but it seems obvious that the largest value went to the oldest son Samuel4 and the second largest in value was Ebenezer's bequest. The four younger sons fared better than the three girls but none got their full share equivalent to L 68. Widow Dorothy's full share, or third, would have been L 340 but her actual bequest was less than half of this amount. This imbalance may have been the result of a death bed will of a sick man, or possibly it may have been to give more than the normal portions to Samuel4 and Ebenezer because of the help they had given without pay, in running the big farm. It is evident that Samuel's desire was to have widow Dorothy well provided for during her lifetime, even though she was not to actually own "ye best end of the house." She never remarried and lived to be 100 SAMUEL3 FULLER over 92 years old. She died September 17, 1772. As far as we know she lived all her years of widowhood with Samuel4 and his large family in the Palmer river house. She was buried in the old Palmer river churchyard on Lake street, probably beside her husband Samuel3, who had died 48 years earlier. Dorothy's gravestone is in fair condition. See illustration on page 120.

Samuel's Will is Allowed

Bristol! ss. Nathaniel Blagrove, Esqr, Duly Appionted and Commissioned by the Honorable William Dummer Esqr Leiutt Governor and Commander in Cheife in and over his Majesties Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England by and with the Advice & Concent of the Councill to bee: Judge of the Probaite of Wills and for Granting Letters of Administration on the Estate of Persons Deceased having Goods, Chattles, Rightes & Credits in the County of Bristol! within the Province aforesaid - To all Whome these Presents shall come Greeting: Samuell Fuller & Ebenezer Fuller Executors to the last will & Testament of Samuel Fuller Late of Rehoboth Deceased: Know ye that upon the Day of the Date hereof Before me att Bristol] in the County aforesaid the will of Samuel Fuller Late of Rehoboth Deceased to these presents annexed, was proved Aproved and Allowed, who having while he lived and att the time of his Death - Goods, Chattles, Rightes & Credits in the County aforesaid and the said will and Power of Committing Administration of all and singuler the Goods, Chat ties, Rightes & Credits of the said Deceased by virtue thereof appataineing unto me. The Administration of all and singuler the Goods, Chattles, Rightes and Credits of the said Deceased and his will in any manner Concerning, is hereby Committed unto Samuel Fuller & Ebenezer Fuller, sons & Executors in the same will named well and Faithfully to Execute the said will: and to Administer the Estate of the said Deceased according thereunto and To make a True and Perfect Inventory of all and Singuler the Goods, Chattles, Rightes & Credits of the said Deceased: and To Exhibit the same into the Registry of the Court of Probaite for the County aforesaid att or before the Ninteenth Day of March next Ensuing: and also to Render a Plaine and True Accompt of your said Administration upon Oath att or before the Ninteenth Day of January which will be in the Year of our Lord one Thousand Seven hundred Twenty five six: In Testimony Whereof I have heare unto set my hand and the Seale of the said Court of Probaite. Datted at Bristoll the Ninteenth Day of January Anno Dom: 1724/5 Bristoll ss. January ye 25, 1724/5 N. Blagrove Entered pr: Stephen Paine, Register B. C. Probate Book 5, p. 3 SAMUEL3 FULLER 101

The Executors Bond Know all men by these Presents, that we Samuel Fuller & Ebenezer Fuller, James Redeway, Jolm Wilmouth of Rehoboth, Yeomen, all in the County of Bristoll within the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England: Are holden and stand firmly Bound and Obliged unto Nathaniel Blagrove, Judge of the Probate of Wills and Granting Administrations within the County of Bristol!, in the Sume of foure hundred Pounds, Currant Money in New England: To be paid unto the said Nathll Blagrove, his successors in the said Office or Assigns: To the true Payment whereof, We do bind our selves and each of us, our, and each of our Heirs, Executors, and Administrators, jointly and severally for the whole and in the whole, firmly by these Presents. Sealed with our Seals. Dated att Bristol! ye 19 Day of January Anno Domini, One Thousand seven hundred twenty 4/5. Annoque Regni Regis Georgi J, Undeirno. The condition of this Obligation is such That if the above bounded Samuel Fuller & Ebenezer Fuller, Executors to the Last will and Testament of Saml Fuller, Late of Rehoboth Deceased, do make or cause to be made, a true and perfect Inventory of all and singular the Goods, Chattels, Rights and Credits of the said Deceased, which have or shall come to the hands, possession or knowledge of them the said Samii Fuller & Ebenezer Fuller, or into the hands and possession of any other person or persons for them, And the same so made, to exhibit or cause to be exhibited into the Registry of the Court of Probate for the aforesaid County of Bristoll at or before the Ninteenth Day of March next ensuing, And the same Goods, Chattels, Rights and Credits and all other Goods, Chattels, Rights & Credits of the said Deceased, at the time of his Death, which at any time after that shall come into the hands or possession of the said Samll Fuller & Ebenezer Fuller or into the hands and possession of any other person or persons for them, do well and truly Administer according to Law. And further do make, or cause to be made, a just & true Accompt of your said Administration upon Oath, at or before the Ninteenth Day of January which will be in the year of our Lord, One Thousand seven hundred Twenty five six. And all the rest & residue of the said Goods, Chattels, & Credits which shall be found remaining upon the said Administrators Accompt ( the same being first examined & allowed of by the Judge or Judges, for the time being, of Probate of Wills & granting Administrations within the County of Bristoll aforesaid) shall deliver and pay unto such person or persons respectively as the said Judge or Judges by his or their Decree or Sentance pursuant to Law shall limit & appoint. And if it shall hereafter appear, That any last Will & Testament was made by the said Deceased: And the Executor or Executors there in named do exhibit the same unto the Court of Probate for the said County of Bristoll making request to have it allowed & approved accordingly. If the said Samll Fuller & Ebenezer Fuller within bounden being thereunto required, do render and deliver the said Letters of Administration (Approbation of such Testament being first had and 102 SAMUEL3 FULLER made) into the said Court: Then the before written Obligation to be Void and of none Effect, or else to abide and remain in full Force and Virtue. Sealed and Delivered in Presence of Cfa mvvd CF,. thr-

['~ t er' ax~ ~a~~"ff?c)

INVENTORY OF SAMUEL3 FULLER ESTATE

An Inventory of the Esteat of housing & Lands Goods & Chattels of Samuel Fuller Late of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol Deceased. Prised by us the Subscribers hereof this twenty seventh day of Janawary Anno Domine 1725 as foloweth - Imprimis: to money 06 - 13 - 10 Item: to aparel 14 - 07 - 00 Item: to arms & amunition 05 · 08 - 00 Item: to Books 00 - 15 - 00 Item: to Beds Beding Bedstids & Lining 48 - 02 -00 Item: to pewter Bras Iron Earthen ware glass botels 19 -04 - 04 Item: to Chests: wheels: & other household eutensills 16-13-06 Item: to wool flax & Lether 10 - 03 - 04 Item: to Provision 39-18-02 Item: to Looms & tools belonging to: a weavers tread 04 - 00 - 00 Item: to Cart: Plows & other husbandry tools 16 - 16 - 00 I tern: to horses Sadels & Bride ls 27 - 00 - 00 Item: to Cattel Sheep & Swine 94 - 09 - 00 Item: to housing & Lands 721 - 00 - 00 th Sum total 1024 - 10 - 08 Jany 19, 1724/5 mark Then the Appraisers were Sworne before me Jonathan O Ormsby N. Blagrove his James Redaway John Willmarth SAMUEL3 FULLER 103

Bristol ss. February ye 18, 1724/5 Then before the Honorable Nathll Blagrove Esqr Judge of the Probate of wills &c within the County of Bristol came -ehz-aEHl·Ol Samuel Ebenezer Fuller Executor to the Estate of Samuel Fuller late of Rehoboth Deceased and made oath that this Inventory Contains the whole of that Estate the said Deceased Died seized of and is Come to her knowledge and when She knows of any more She will Reveal the same yt it may be of Record herewith. Jurat Coram N. Blagrove Stephen Paine, Register Sworne Bristoll ye March the 6, 1724/5 Entered in the fifth Book of Wills follio 333 pr Stephen Paine, Register

The original inventory is filed in Bristol County Registry of Probate in an envelope labeled 'Samuel Fuller - 1724' and is also copied in Copybook 5 page 33. The affidavit on the original was written with Elizabeth Fuller as the Executor. Elizabeth was crossed out and Samuel Ebenezer written above it. Neither the Judge nor the Register took the trouble to make corresponding corrections. There was no Elizabeth in Samuel's immediate family. This inventory is greatly condensed and simplified by comparison with the usual inventory taken in those early days. It was customary to go from room to room carefully itemizing and appraising all articles large or small in value. From such a complete listing it is often possible to determine the number of rooms in the house. Samuel's inventory however, doesn't give us any help in this respect. His was a large estate and doubtless Judge Blagrove accepted the inventory realizing that the terms of the will made a clear and simple disposition of the personal property. Widow Dorothy was to have everything inside the house, total value t 165 - 05 - 02. Samuel and Ebenezer were to divide the stock and 'outdore movables' which had a total value b 138 - 05 - 00. It would have made little practical difference had the inventory listed all itC'ms in detail. The inventory was taken by widow Dorothy's younger brother. John Wilmarth: James Redway. who was Samuel's half-brother: and Jonathan Ormsby, a neighbor. 104 SAMUEL3 FULLER

Guardianship of the Minor Children Customarily the surviving parent was appointed by the Probate Court as guardian of the minor children. A bond and a final accounting of the property as each child came of age, was required. In those early years a separate appointment for guardianship of the children under 14 years of age, and for those over age 14 but under 21 years. The documents applying to Dorothy's guardianships are in two envelopes filed at the Registry of Probate in Taunton. One envelope is labelled "Fuller - Dorothy, Ruth, Timothy - 1724," and the other "Fuller - Aron, Moses, Mary, Noah - 1724." The appointments are recorded in Book 5, pages 43, 44.

Bond - Dorothy, Ruth, Timothy Know all men by these Presents, that we Dorothy Fuller, Cap. Samuel Peck, Jonathan Bliss - all of Rehoboth in the County of Bristoll within the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England: Are holden and stand firmly Bound and Obliged unto Nathaniel Blagrove Esqr his Successors or Assigns, in the full sum of five hundred Pounds, to be paid unto the said Nathll Blagrove Esq. his Successors or Assigns, in the office of Judge of the Probate of Wills, and for Granting Letters of Administration on the Estates of Persons Deceased, in the said County of Bristol!: To the true Payment whereof We joyntly and severally bind Our Selves, Our several and respective Heirs, Executors and Administrators, firmly by these Presents. Sealed with Our Seals: Dated the twenty 2d Day of March Annoque Domini 1724/5

THE CONDITION OF THIS OBLIGATION is such, That if the above bounded Dorothy Fuller who is nominated and allowed to be Guardian unto Dorothy, Ruth & Timothy Fuller, Daughter and sons of Samuel Fuller, above the age of fourteen years, late of Rehoboth in the County of Bristoll, Deceased, shall and do well and truly Perform and Discharge the Trust and Office of Guardian unto the said minor and that in and by all Things according to Law; And shall render a Plain and true Accompt of your said Guardianship upon Oath, and all and singular such Estate as shall come to your hands and possession by virtue thereof, and of the Profits and Improvements of the same, so far as the Law will charge you there-with (when you be there-unto lawfully required) and shall Pay and Deliver what and so much of the said Estate as shall be found remaining upon your Accompt ( the same being first Examined and Allowed of by the Judge or Judges, for the time being, of the Probate of Wills &c within the County of Bristoll aforesaid) unto the said minor when they shall arrive at full Age, or otherwise as the said Judge or Judges by his or their Decree or Sentence SAMUEL3 FULLER 105 pursuant to Law shall Limit and Appoint: Then this Obligation to be Void, otherwise to remain in full force Sign'd, Seal'd and Deliver'd In Presence of us Stephen Paine Simon Burr

Appointment of Guardian for Dorothy, Ruth, Timothy Bristoll ss. Nath! Blagrove Esq. duly appointed and commissioned by the Honorable William Dummer Leiut. Governor and Commander in Chief in and over his Majesties Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England and by and with the advice and consent of the Council to be Judge of the Probate of Wills etc. within the County of Bristoll in the Province aforesaid - To Mrs Dorothey Fuller of Rehoboth in the County of Bristoll trusting therefore in your care and fidelity I do by these presents pursuant to the Power and Authority to me granted in and by an act of the General Assembly of the said Province, nominate and appionte you to be guardian unto Dorothy, Ruth and Timothey Fuller daughters and son of Samuel Fuller late of Rehoboth deceased, above the age of fourteen years with full power and authority to ask demand sue for recover receive and take into your custody all and singular such part and portions of estate as accrues unto them in right of the ire father Samuel Fuller late of Rehoboth deceased, or which by any other way or means whatsoever doth of right belong to them and to manage and employ and improve the same for theire best profit and advantage, and to render a plaine and true accompt of your said guardianship uppon oath so far as the law will charge you therewith when you shall be lawfulty required, and pay and deliver such and so much of the said estate as shall be remaining on your accompt - the same being first examined and allowed by the said Judge or judges for the time being of Probaite etc: unto the said minors when they shall arrive att full age, or 106 SAMUEL3 FULLER otherwise as the said Judge or Judges by his or the ire decree shall limitt and appionte. In testimony whereof I have heare unto set my hand and the seal of said Court of Probate. Datted at Bristoll ye 23d of March Anno Dom 1724/5 N. Blagrove Bristol! ss. March ye 23d 1724/5 Entered per Stephen Paine, Register. Bristol County Probate, Book 5, p. 44. Choice of Guardian by Dorothy, Ruth, and Timothy March 24th 1725 These are To lnforme the Judge of Pobatse that Timothy Fuller and Dorothy Fuller and Ruth Fuller have maid Choyce of there mother Dorothy Fuller For there Gardens as Witness our hands Timothy Fuller his hand Dorothy Fuller hur hand Ruth Fuller A photocopy of the original document herewith illustrated, makes an interesting study to determine which, if any, of the children wrote it. Timothy was just over 14, Ruth over 17, and Dorothy was nearly 19 years old. SAMUEL3 FULLER 107

Appointment of Guardian for Mary, Moses, Aaron, and Noah Bristoll ss. Nath! Blagrove Esq. duly appointed and commissioned by the Honorable William Dummer Leiut. Governor and Commander in Chief in and over his Majesties Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England and by and with the advice and consent of the Council to be Judge of the Probate of Wills etc. within the County of Bristoll in the Province aforesaid - - To Mrs. Doro they Fuller of Rehoboth in the County of Bristoll Greeting: Trusting in your care and Fidelity I do by these presents pursuant to the Power and Authority to me granted in and by an act of ye General Assembly of the said Province Nominate & Appionte you Guardian unto Mary, Moses, Aron & Noah Fuller daughter and sons to Samuel Fuller late of Rehoboth deceased, under the age of fourteen years; with full power and authority to act demand sue for Recover Receive and take into your costady all and singular such Part and Portion of Estate as accrues to them in right of their father Samuel Fuller late of Rehoboth deceased - or which by any other way or means whatsoever doth of Right appertaine or Belong to them and to manage lmploy & Improve the same for theire best profit and Advantage: and to render a plaine and true accompt of your Guardianship uppon oath so far as the law will charge you therewith when you shall be lawfully required and pay and deliver such& so much of said Estate as shall be remaining on your accompt the same being first examined & allowed by the Judge or Judges for the time being of Probate &c, unto the said minors when they shall arrive att full age or otherwise as the Judge or Judges by his or theire decree of sentence pursuant to law shall limitt & appionte: In Testimony whereof I have hearunto set my hand and the seal of the said Probate Datted at Bristol the Twenty third day of March Ano Dom: 1724/5 Stephen Paine, Register. N. Blagrove Bristoll ss. March ye 23, 1724/5 Bristol County Probate, Entered pr. Stephen Paine, Register. Book 5, page 43

The bond to cover the above appointment is similar to the form used for Dorothy, Ruth and Timothy except the amount of the bond is set at -E600. It is dated March 22, 1724/5 and co-signed by Samuel Peck and Jonathan Bliss. The original is in an envelope at the Registry of Probate, Taunton. These are all of the records concerning SamueJ3 Fuller estate and Dorothy's guardianships. The final accounting of both the estate and the guardianships are not on record in Probate files. 108 SAMUEL3 FULLER

LAND OWNED BY SAMUEL3 FULLER

(A) Acquired by Divisions of the Common Lands. 1. At a town meeting held March 12, 1684/5, the proprietors voted a division of the common lands in the southeast part of the town. Lots were drawn April 9, 1685 by 86 proprietors. Samuel was No. 65. His -I:; 50 in Commonage Rights entitled him to 10 acres but his mother who handled the drawing as Samuel's guardian, apparently took only a five acre tract which adjoined his other land. 2. The next division was voted at a town meeting held May 19, 1697, and went through the usual routine of drawing lots, Samuel drawing No. 35. Apparently no division was actually made.{f) 3. At an adjourned town meeting held January 4, 1702/3, it was voted to have two divisions of land, each to be 20 acres for -I:; 100 in Commonage. Lots were drawn on March 29, 1703 by 163 proprietors. Samuel drew No. 39 and received a total of 20 acres in two parcels, both adjoining his other land at Palmer river. 4. The December 29, 1707 town meeting was adjourned to February 9, 1707 /8 and the proprietors then voted to have two land divisions, each with 20 acres for I:, 100 in Commonage. Samuel drew No. 73. In the first division his 10 acres were located at Palmer river, and consisted of a nine acre lot and a one acre lot. His land in the second division was 10 acres at Wolf Plain. A total of 170 proprietors received land in these divisions. 5. The last division in which Samuel partitipated was voted at a meeting of the proprietors held January 8, 1712/13, to divide 4000 acres by giving 40 acres per -I:; 100 in Commonage. This was a large area of land as 4000 acres is 6¼ square miles. It was located east of

(f) The May 19, 1697 town meeting was voted two divisions of land, the first to be 10 acres per I:; 100 Commonage and the second to be 20 acres. The lands proposed for division were: the Green within of the town; the ox pasture; the common land at Wachamoket Neck; and a small tract at Palmer river. The meeting adjourned to June 2, 1697 and agreed to rules for laying out the land and other details. This meeting adjourned to June 16, 1697, at which time 137 proprietors drew lots. Samuel drew No. 35. With his I:; 50 in Commonage he should have been entitled to 15 acres. This acreage is not mentioned in any later listing of his real estate. It is very probable that no layout or actual division was made. Apparently there was disagreement among the proprietors as to the desirability of dividing some or all o-f the locations selected. The outcome was expressed at the December 7, 1702 town meeting and the adjourned meeting of January 4, 1702/3. At the December meeting it was voted to have two divisions each to be 20 acres per I:; 100 in Commonage. Then at the January meeting it was "voted and agreed upon that the land on the green within the cercit of the Town, or the ox pastor, & the land that now lies common at Wachamoket neck & a small parcel of land at palmers river ..... that the said tracts of Land not be laid out but Lye perpetually to the common for Towns use." SAMUEL3 FULLER 109

Palmer river and included the present Rehoboth village center and up into the Perryville area. This was the last large piece of common land to be divided. Lots were drawn on February 2, 1712/3, by 173 proprietors. Samuel drew No. 159. His 20 acres was in two tracts, one of 5½ acres and the other 14½ acres, both being located on Rocky Hill (Wolf Plain area).

(B) Acquired by Purchase 1. In 1706, from Ephraim Millard, 4 acres in Squananakonk swamp, which gave him a supply of cedar. (RLR II: 211) 2. In 1710, from his brother-in-law Nathaniell Willmarth, about ½ acre, to straighten a boundary. (RLR III:270) 3. About the same time, from Jonathan Willmarth (his wife's uncle), 10 acres at Palmer River. (RLR III :270) 4. Date unknown, but referred to in Samuel's will and later in a deed by Timothy4 Fuller to Elisha Bliss ( 1733), a tract of 13 acres purchased from the Coopers. 5. Likewise referred to in Samuel's will and Timothy4 deed to Elisha Bliss, a tract of meadow about two acres purchased by SamueJ3 from Whetons heirs. The above makes a total of 29½ acres purchased but no purchase price was recorded in any instance. Further description of these tracts will be given in "The bounds of the Lands of Samuel Fuller" as quoted from the Rehoboth Land Records. It would be practically impossible to locate with certainty, any of the tracts from these early descriptions in the land record books.

(C) Acquired by Inheritance. 1. The 17 acres of land at Palmer River which was his father's. The only descripton of this land is in the inventory of Samuel2 estate quoted in Chapter III. 2. The 25 acres of "upland and meadow on the west side of Palmer River" given Samuel by deed from his grandfather Robert. The deed is quoted in full in Chapter II.

(D) Land Sold by Samue/3. There appears to be only one sale of land by Samuel and this is his only recorded deed at the Bristol County Registry of Deeds. For -b 1-15 he sold 9 acres of upland and swamp to Samuel Peck. The price is so low that the land doubtless was mostly swamp. 110 SAMUEL3 FULLER

(E) Other Land Transactions. 1. On April 3, 1710 Samuel exchanged about half an acre with his brother-in-law, Nathaniel Wilmarth. This apparently was to straighten out a boundary. No money was involved. (RLR III :270) 2. On June 1, 1724 Samuel purchased jointly with Elisha Bliss a strip of land from James Redway for E 10. This strip was 70 rods long by 3 rods wide. The next day it was exchanged with the town for an existing road which ran through both Samuel's land and Elisha Bliss' land. It appears to have been an even exchange for the advantage and convenience of all concerned. These two transactions are recorded in RLR IV, pp. 91 and 153.

Summary Samuel's final holding of land at the time of his death in 1724 was 127½ acres. Of this total, 93½ acres was at Palmer river, 30 acres were at Wolf Plain (Rocky Hill), and 4 acres were in Squanakonk cedar swamp. Totally it was a relatively large acreage, most of which was acquired without cost. Documentary Records In accordance with the custom which prevailed during his lifetime, Samuel twice reported the various tracts of land which he owned to the Proprietors' Clerk. The first listing was made in 1709 and is recorded in Rehoboth land Records, Book II, p. 211. The second listing was made in 1724 a few months before Samuel died. This listing is recorded in Rehoboth Land Records, Book III, pp. 270, 271. Both lists are quoted verbatim herewith, together with parenthetical notes to indicate which land division gave him each tract.

THE BOUNDS OF THE LANDS OF SAMUELL ffULLER First listing - 1709 Imp: ffive accers of Land be it more or less on the west side of palmers River being a lot in the thousand accer devission Lyeing one the north west side of a lite]] Run; runing twenty rod from the run West Sou West to a white oake marked for a corner; & forty rod South Sou east to the run; this lot ajoyne to his owne land formerly laid out to his ffather. (This lot was acquired in the drawing made April 9, 1685. Samuel was No. 65. It apparently adjoined the 17 acres mentioned in Samuel2 inventory.) SAMUEL3 FULLER 111

Likewise ffifty pound estate of Commenage in the towne of Rehoboth given him by his granfather Robert ffuller. Likewise ten ackers of Land lying by his house the first corner is the southwest corner of the perens Land thence south halfe a point upon the West to the way leading to Samuell fullers; then by said way to a white Oake marked by a greate rock on the Northeast side of the way; then across the way East South East to Joseph Pecks land, then by said Pecks land to the Highway & soe by the Highway & Samuell ffullers Land & the perens Land to the first corner; the Highway to be foure rod wide that goeth to palrners River. (This lot was part of the drawing made March 29, 1703, Samuel No. 39.)

Likewise Ten acrees of Land be itt more or Less Lying Ajoyning to his owne Land att palrners River itt being a Goare of Lands; the first corner is a black oake standing in the Line of his old Lott thence: W b N: 14: Rods to a black oake for a corner: Thence: SW: 78: Rods by the highway. Then bounding by the highway & his owne Lands till itt comes to the first corner. Entrd Jan 15, 1706/7. (This is the second lot in the March 29, 1703 drawing, Samuel No. 39.)

Likewise four acrees more or Less Purchased of Ephraim Millard Lying in Squananakonk: the first corner is a maple Thence: W b N: 20: Rods to a pine for a corner. Thence: Nb E: 30: Rods to a pine for a corner. Thence: Eb S: 20: Rods to a burch for a corner: Thence Sb W: to the first corner. Entered Jany 15, 1706/7. Likewise Nine acrees of Land be it more or Less Lyeing Between the lott of Land laid out to Capt. John Brown & Mr. John Peck Iott Lyeing on the Right hand of the Road, that leads to sd Samii ffullers near palrners River, it being the most part of his Iott in the first two Thousand acre Devision granted Anno Dorne 1707 /8. The first corner is the NW corner of sd Browns Iott being a black oake standing by sd Roade or highway: thence SW Bounding with sd Browns Land fifty four Rods to a beach tree for a corner being sd Browns SW corner: thence Bounding with Sarnll Pecks land till it meets with Mr. John Pecks line of his land: Thence Bounding with sd John Pecks land till it comes to sd Roade or highway to a black oake for a corner being John Pecks NE corner: thence Bounding with a four Rod highway forty seven Rods by markt trees as now the way goes till it comes to the first corner. Entered the 4 of January 1708/9.

(This lot was part of the drawing made February 9, 1707 /8. Samuel drew No. 73. He sold this lot to Samuel Peck forb 1-15 by deed of September 9, 1710.) 112 SAMUEL3 FULLER

THE RECORDS OF THE BOUNDS OF SAMll FULLERS LANDS Second Listing - 1724 Know all men by these presents that I Nathanil Willmarth of the Town of Rehoboth, Have sold to Samii Fuller of sd Rehoboth to him his heirs & assigns for ever a small Tract of land on the Southerly end of my home Iott containing half an acre by estimation more or less, Being Bounded from a Rock being the SWly corner of sd Willmarths home Iott, Thence Runing SE a quarter of a pointe S so far as sd Willmarths land Runs Easterly and Bounded Sly with sd Fullers own land. Easterly with the Smiths Swampe & medow: and I the sd Willmarth is fully sattisfied & fully paid for sd land hereby Bargain sd & Sold & Doth by these presents fully confirm sd land from me & my heirs to him the sd Fuller his heirs & assigns forever. Witness my hand the 3d day of Aprill Anno Domini 17 IO. Nathanil Willmarth Signed & delivered in prsence of us Samii Bliss A True Coppy of the originall Deed entered Danll Carpenter by order of the sd Nathanil Willmarth & the sd Fuller as is Attested by me Rehoboth Danll Carpenter, Ton Clerk entered Aprill ye 11th 1710. Likewise Eleven acres of land be it more or less, ten of sd Eleven acres purchased of Jonathan Willmarth & one acre upon his own Rights Lying in two parts, the first part 8 acres and half Lyeing adjoyning to his own land & John Martens land & Gershum Lakes land and Philip Walkers land. Memorandum. there is a 4 rod Highway through this land & allowed for it. The other part two acre & half Lyeing adjoyning to John Peck land near the Willmarths. Bounded Southerly & Westerly highway of 4 rods wide. Nly the Common land. Easterly John Pecks land. Being 44 rods in length Ely & Wly & 10 rods wide Nly & Sly. (The "one acre upon his own Rights" was part of the February 9, 1707 /8 drawing, Samuel No. 73.) Likewise Ten acres be it more or less, being his 2nd Lot in the Division granted 1707 /8 Lyeing by the Woulfe plain. the first corner is a box tree Thence N.E. SOty rods to a birch tree for a cornner. thence N .W. 60ty rods to a mapple for a cornner, Thence S.W. 16 rods to a greate white oak for a cornner. Thence Sb E to the first cornner. laid out February 14, 1712/ 13 (This lot was the balance of the February 9, 1707 /8 drawing, Samuel No. 73.) Likewise five acres & half of Land be it more or less Lyeing at the westerly end of his owne Land near the Wolfe Plaine being part of his Lot in the 4000 acre Division granted 1712/ 13, the first corner is the North Westerly corner of his former lot being a great white oake, thence W BS: 14 rods to a Stake for a corner, thence W B S to Ensigne Timo Ides corner of his Land being a beach tree, then about a rod---- the above written was a mistake and is recorded underneath as followeth; SAMUEL3 FULLER 113

Likewise five acres and a half of Land be it more or less being Part of his Lot in the 4000 acres Division granted Ano Domini 1712/ 13, Lyeing on the W:ly End of his owne Land near the Wolf plain, the first corner is the N:W:ly corner of his former Lot being a Great White oake tree markt, thence W BS: 14 Rods to a Beach Tree for a corner, thence S B E: 59 rods to a stake for a comer, E B S to Ensigne Timo Ides Land to his corner being a Beach tree; then about a rod to sd ffullers S W corner there bounding with his owne Land to the first corner. The Remaining part of sd Fullers lot being fourteen acres and a half Lyeing adjoyning to his above sd Lot beginning Eight foot west of a maple tree markt in the Line of his old Lot, thence SE BE: 55 rods to a heape of stones and a white oake bush for a corner, thence SW B S: 36 rods to a Greate Rock and a heape of stones on it for a corner, thence W 20 rods to Ensigne Timo Ides Land, then bounding with sd Ides Land till it comes to sd fullers old lot, then bounding with his old Lot 36 rods to the first corner. Entered May ye 9th, 1724 (This was the drawing of February 2, 1712/13, Samuel No. 159.) A RECORD OF AN EXCHANGE OF LANDS BETWEEN NATHANll WILLMARTH & SAMll FULLER Upon the 3d day of Aprill Anno Domini 1710 then Nathanil Willmarth & Samll Fuller both of Rehoboth made an Exchange of Two small Tracts of Land Lyeing Between each of our home lotts in sd Rehoboth: : Know all men that the Bounds settled Between each of us: & our heirs & assigns forever are as followeth (viz) Beginning at the N Ely end of sd Fullers home Iott thence runing as now to Willmarths logg fence S Wly straite to a maple tree markt: & from sd maple tree straite to a little Black oake markt: & from sd Black oake straite to a mapple Stumpe by a Run & from sd Stumpe straite cutting a cross above of sd Run to a Rock in the edge of sd Run: then bounding on ye westerly side of sd Run till it come to a stake for a corner: then turning S Ely crossing sd Run & Running as now the fence standeth till it meets with an other Fence Running S Wly: then Bounding with sd fence Runing S Wly till it comes to a Rock Being the S Wly corner of sd Willmarths land. The sd land Exchanged by sd Willmarth & sd Fuller is near abouts a quarter of an acre by each of them by Estimation. The sd Nathanil Willmarth is to have & to hold to him his heirs & assigns for ever all sd land Belonging to sd Fuller on the Easterly side of the above mentioned Bounderies: & in Consideration there of the sd Samii Fuller is to have & to hold to him his heirs & assigns for ever all sd land Belonging to sd Willmarth on the Westerly side of the above mentioned Bounderies: The above mentioned Bounds is to be a perpetuall Bounds Between the sd parties & their heirs & assigns for ever --- as witness our hands the day & year above written. Signed in presence of N h II w·11 th Samll Bliss at an 1 mar Danll Carpenter Samii Fuller A True Record or coppy of the original Exchange or agreement Entered by order of the above sd Willmarth & sd Fuller: the 11th day of Aprell 1710. Attest Danll Carpenter, Town Clerk 114 SAMUEL3 FULLER

(The second listing of 1724 of SamueP Fuller's lands, including the above deed of exchange, is recorded in Rehoboth Land Records, Book III, page 269.)

DEED - SEPT. 9, 1710 SAMUEL3 FULLER TO SAMUEL PECK To all Christian People unto whom this present Deed of Sale shall come Samuel ffuller of the Town of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol within her Majesties Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, Husbandman Sendeth Greeting. Know yee that I the said Samuel ffuller for and in Consideration of the sum of One pound fifteen shillings Current money of sd Province to me in hand before the ensealing hereof well and truly payd by Samuel Peck of the Town and Province abovesaid Gentmn: the Receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge and myself therewith fully sattisfyed & Contented and of every part & parcel thereof do exonerate acquit and Discharge the said Samuel Peck his heirs executors & Adminsts forever - And by these presents have given granted bargained sold Released Conveyed & Confirmed & by these presents do give grant bargain sell Release Convey & Confirm unto the said Samuel Peck his heirs and assigns for Ever All that my Iott of upland & swamp scittuate in Rehoboth aforesd Lyeing & being at Palmers River Containing by Estimation Nine Acres be it more or less Being butted & bounded as followeth: beginning at a black Oake near the Sandy Hill Run in the Road Leading from said Samuel ffuller dwelling house to the said Town of Rehoboth so Runing or Joyning to the sd Road on the south End to a black Oake which is the Corner of Mr John Pecks Iott so westwardly bounded on sd Lott & on all other parts bounded on ye land of sd Samuel Peck & the land of Capt. John Brown late of Swanzey to the first Corner. To have and to hold the aforesd nine acres of upland and swamp as it is before bounded mentioned and expressed with all and singuler the Apurtenances priviledges & Commoditys thereunto belonging or in any manner of way as appertaining with the Reversion & Reversions Remainder & Remainders to him the said Samuel Peck his heirs and assignes for Ever. To his & their own proper use benifit and behoofe for Ever & Ever & I the sd Samuel ffuller for myself my heirs executors & Adrninsts do Covenant promise and grant to and with the sd Samuel Peck his heirs and assignes that at the time of this bargaine & untill the signing & delivering hereof I am the true sole and lawful\ Owner of the above granted & bargained premises and am Lawfully seized & Possessed of the same in my owne proper right as a good sure perfect and absolute Estate of Inheritance in ffee simple & have in my self good right full power and Lawful\ Authority to grant bargain sell Convey & Confirm said bargained premises in manner as abovesaid. And that the said Samuel Peck his heirs and assignes shall & may from time to time to time and at all times for Ever hereafter by force & virtue of these presents Lawfully peaceably & quietly have hold use occupy Possess and Enjoy the sd Demised & bargained premises with the Appurtenances thereunto belonging free & Clear and freely and Clearly Acquitted Exonerated & Disclnrged of & from all & all manner of former and other gifts grants bargains sales Leases Mortgages wills Entayles Joyntures Dowries Judgements Execution lncumbrances & Extents. ffurthermore I sd Samuell ffuller for my self my heirs Executes & Admes Do Covenant and Ingage the above demised premises unto him the said Samuel Peck his heirs and assignes SAMUEL3 FULLER 115 against the Lawful Claims or Demands of any person or persons whatsoever for Ever hereafter to Warrant secure and Defend. ffurthermore the said Samuel ffuller for myself my heires Executors & Administes Do Covenant & promise at & upon the Reasonable Request of & at the proper Cost and Charges of the said Samuel Peck his heires and Assignes to make do perform & Execute any farther or other Reasonable Act or Acts thing or things Device or Devices in the Law needful or Requisite for the more perfect assurance settleing & sure making of the premises as above sd. In witness Whereof the sd Samuel ffuller hath hereunto sett and fixt his hand & seal this ninth day of September Anno Domini one Thousand seven hundred & Ten and in ye ninth Year of her Majesties Reign &c. Samuel ffuller (S) Signed sealed & Delivered In the presence of us William Hammon Rehoboth in ye County of Bristol Janey Witnesses Sarah Mason 25 17 I 3/ 14. Samuel ffuller ye subscriber to lcabod Bosworth the above mentioned Deed personally ap­ peared before me underwritten one of her Majesties Justices of ye Peace for the County Entered Jany 13, 1715 by of Bristol & acknowledged to be his free John Cary, Recorder. voluntary Act & Deed. B. C. Deeds 9:702 Nathaniel Peck Jr. This is the only deed of Samuel3 recorded in Bristol County Registry of Deeds, and appears to be the nine acres he drew in the 2000 acre division of 1708/9. It adjoined other land owned by Samuel Peck in the Palmer river area.

DEED ~ JUNE 1, 1724 JAMES REDAWAY TO SAMUEL3 FULLER & ELISHA BLISS To all people to whom these Presents shall come: James Redaway in the Town of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, yeoman, have for and in consideration of the sum of ten pounds of current money of sd Province to me in hand received before the ensealing hereof well and truly paid by Samuel Fuller and Elisha Bliss yeoman of the town aforesaid, the receipt whereof I acknowledge and myself therewith fully and sufficiently paid, have given granted bargained sold aleined conveyed and confirmed and by these presents do freely fully and absolutely give grant bargain sell alein convey and confirm unto them the sd Samii Fuller and Elisha Bliss their heirs and assigns forever a certain stripe of land scittuate in sd Rehoboth at Palmers river lyeing near the house of Mr. David Turner containing one acre and quarter and ten rods being seventy rods in length and three rods in bredeth, being bounded as foloweth: Beginning at the NW corner of the land of Mr. David Turner being ye Iott on which his house standeth, from thence runing north a quarter of a point East seventy rods till it come to a stake and heap of stones by the highway that comes from Samii Millerds to Samii Fullers the sd tract of land extending itself three rods westerly from sd bound. To have and to hold the aforsd tract of land above bounded mentioned and exprest with all and 116 SAMUEL3 FULLER singular ye appurtenances priviledges and commodities belonging thereto to them the sd Samii Fuller and Elisha Bliss their heirs and assignes forever to their own proper use benefitt and behoof forever. Furthermore I the sd James Redaway for myself my heirs executors and administrators do covenant and Ingage the above demised premises unto them the sd Elisha Bliss and Samii Fuller their heirs and assignes against ye lawful claims and demands of any person or persons whatsoever. In wittness whereof I the sd James Redaway hath hereunto set my hand and seall this first day of June one thousand and seven hundred and twenty four. Signed in Presence of James Redaway (S) Samuel Bearsto Danll Carpenter Rehoboth Land Records, Book IV, p. 153 The above strip of land was exchanged by the Town for an existing highway easterly of Palmer River, recorded in Rehoboth Land Records Book 4, page 91 as follows: June 2, 1724. The strip of land purchased by Samll Fuller aad Elisha Bliss from James Redaway is exchanged for the highway 2 rods wide that lies on the westerly side of the land that Samuel Fuller purchased of the Coopers ( g) and so through the land of Elisha Bliss and between the land of the heirs of Saml Bliss and the sd Elisha Bliss till it comes to the highway that comes from Benj Willsons to Saml Bliss. The sd Saml Fuller is to have the said way 60 rods at the northerly end of it lying against his own land and partly against the land of sd Bliss until it comes to a black oak sapling marked. The Blisses to have liberty through sd way to come to their meadow and the sd Elisha Bliss to have all the rest of the way being the southerly end of it.

(g) This land purchased of the Coopers was bequeathed by SamueJ3 to his son Timothy, and included the piece of the old highway two rods wide, making a total of about 13 acres mentioned in Samuel's will. SAMUEL3 FULLER 117

WILMARTH FAMILY OF EARLY REHOBOTH

Thomasl Wilmarth, born in England about 1620, was the emigrant ancestor of the Rehoboth family. He came to New England prior to 1645 in which year he is recorded as an inhabitant of Braintree. He moved with his family to Rehoboth about 1657, and purchased Isaac Martin's land. In 1658 he was made a freeman in Plymouth Colony. He was called Ensigne in several legal documents. His first wife was Elizabeth Bliss, oldest daughter of Thomasl Bliss of Rehoboth. Thomasl Bliss died in June 1649, and in his will left property to his "son-in-law Thomas Willmore" (Wilmarth) and to his oldest daughter Elizabeth, "wife of Thomas Willmore." (Cf: Plymouth Colony Wills, Vol. I, p. 67) The birth dates of the children of Thomasl and Elizabeth (Bliss) Wilmarth are not now on record, except that of their daughter Elizabeth who was born in Braintree April 4, 164 7. It is probable that their other seven children were also born in Braintree before the family settled in Rehoboth. His wife, Elizabeth, died at Rehoboth and was buried February 1676/7. (R 1:53) Thomas married as his second wife, Rachel Reed, in Rehoboth on June 27, 1678. (R 1 :47) Thomasl Wilmarth died at Rehoboth and was buried May 13, 1694. (R 1 :91 ). His will is dated December 10, 1678, about five months after he married Rachel Reed. It is recorded in Bristol County Probate, Book 1, p. 82, and was proved on May 28, 1694. The inventory of his estate totalled -b 204-04-00. His will named his wife Rachel, daughters Elizabeth and Mary, and his sons Thomas, John, and Jonathan. However, his son Thomas had died October 4, 1690, and his share went to his widow, Mary (Robinson) Wilmarth. Sons Timothy, Nathaniel, and Daniel had died prior to the date of his will.

The Wilmarths acquired considerable land in the Palmer river area of Rehoboth, some of it being adjacent to the land owned by the Fullers. Today, a Rehoboth street named Wilmarth Bridge Road, runs from the turnpike (Route 44) to Summer street, and passes through land once owned by the Wilmarths. The name has been spelled in various ways: Willmarth, Willmath, Willmouth, Willmore, Wilmart, Wilmot, but now more commonly as Wilmarth. 118 SAMUEL3 FULLER

Children of Thomasl and Elizabeth (Bliss) Wilmarth: Elizabeth b. Apr. 4, 1647 (Braintree printed records) m. Dec. 14, 1664, Jonathan2 Fuller, (R 1 :44) oldest son of Robert and Sarah (Bowen) Fuller. 11 children (R 1: 17) Thomas b. ca. 1648. d. (buried) Oct. 4, 1690 (R 1 :89) m. June 7, 1674, Mary Robinson, (R I :46) dau. of George and Joane Robinson. b. May 30, 1652 in Rehoboth. 8 children (R 1 :25) JOHN2 b. ca. 1649. d. Sept. 1719 (R 2:232) m. Feb. 7, 1671/2, Ruth Kendrick (R 1:45), dau. of George and Ruth (Bowen) Kendrick. b. Feb. 16, 1649 (R ·1: 12). d. Feb. 19, 1705/6 (R 1: 181). 9 children (see below), all born in Rehoboth (R 1: 36). Timothy b. ca. 1652. Died young.

Mary b. ca. 1654. m 1 Jan. 5, 1680, Joseph Rocket, (R 1 :47a), who died July 27, 1683 (R 1 :56a). One child, Mary, b. Dec. 14, 1683 (R 1 : 34 ), d. Feb. 2, 1685 (R 1 :56a). m2. Oct. 28, 1686 in Taunton, Giles Gilbert as his second wife. He was b. 1627. d. Jan. 8, 1717/8. Two children: John, b. Aug. 24, 1687, d. March 1688. Joseph, b. Mar. 22, 1689, d. ca. 1711 unm. Jonathan b. ca. 1656. m. Dec. 29, 1680, Esther Peck (R 1:47) dau. of John and Elizabeth Peck, b. Jan. 7, 1658. Ten children (R 1 :58) Nathaniell b. ca. 1658. d. (buried) Nov. 12, 1676 (R l:53a) Daniell b. ca. 1660. d. (buried) Nov. 23, 1676 (R l:53a)

Children of JOHN2 and Ruth ( Kendrick) Wilmarth Ruth b. Oct. 5, 1673. d. Mar.'26, 1706 (R 1:173) m. Feb. 16, 1697, Samuel Cooper (R 1: 164) Four children (R 1 :93). Samuel Cooper married secondly, Martha ______and had 7 more children. Mehitabel b. June 19, 1675. d. Dec. 27, 1702 (R 1:178). m. Nov. 19, 1700, Ebenezer Walker, (R 1: 172). Two children: Ebenezer, b. June 30, 1701. d. May 1702; Mehitabel, b. Dec .. 18, 1702. SAMUEL3 FULLER 119

(Ebenezer Walker m2 Oct. 11, 1703, Dorothy Abell and had nine more children.) Nathaniel b. Dec. 29, 1677. ml Joanna-----=-- who died May 31, 1706 (R 1: 181 ). One child. m2 1707, Mary Perry. 8 children (R 1: 118) DOROTHY b. Aug. 26, 1680. d. Sept. 17, 1772 (Gravestone) m. Dec. 16, 1701, SAMUEL3 FULLER (R 1: 172). Nine children (Cf: Fuller genealogy) Sarah b. Dec. 21, 1682. d. Mar. 27, 1728 (R 2:238). m. July 17, 1710, John Martin, Jr. (R 1: 177) Four children (R 1: 145) John b. Dec. 11, 1685. d. July 24, 1774 (R 3:366). ml Oct. 4, 1708, Hannah Tylar (R 1: 176). No children. m2 Mar. 8, 1710/ 11, Hannah Hunt (R 1: 177), dau. of Ephraim and Rebecca Hunt. b. June 26, 1693 (R l :64) d. Dec. 1, 1781 (R 3:370) Ten children (R 1: 153) Mercy b. May 2, 1689. d. June 5, 1755 in Stoughton. m. Nov. 13, 1712, Eliazer Gilbert of Taunton (R 1: 158). b. ca. 1686. d. Apr. 5, 1763 in Stoughton. 8 children (5 b. in Norton, 3 in Easton). Noah b. May 3, 1691. d. (buried) May 17, 1692 (R 1 :88) Timothy b. Nov. 4, 1692. d. Jan. 10, 1715/6 unm. (R 1: 167)

Note: Above references are Rehoboth Vital Record book number and page. 120 SAMUEL3 FULLER

1 Irt

Gravestone of Dorothy (Wilmarth) Fuller at Palmer River Cemetery, Lake St., Rehoboth. The stone is a granite fieldstone, about two or three inches thick, smoothed on the front for the inscription, but left natural on the back side. It measures about 11 ½" wide by 13" above ground. The border line around three sides of the inscription is 9½" at the top and 12" on each side. A "rubbing" or tracing of the face of the stone was used to make a full-size restoration drawing from which the above photograph was taken. The stone is in fair condition. CHAPTER V

TIMOTHY4 FULLER 1710/11 - 1782

Timothy, the first of this name in this lineage, was born in Rehoboth March 8, 1710/11. He was the fifth of nine children of Samuel and Dorothy (Wilmarth) Fuller. The origin of his name appears to be from the Wilmarth family as Dorothy's youngest brother was Timothy Wilmarth, born in 1692, and she also had an uncle Timothy Wilmarth. The only other earlier relative named Timothy was Timothy Ide, born in 1660, the younger brother of Mary (Ide) Fuller, who was therefore an uncle of Samuel3 Fuller. It appears to have been a mutually agreeable name to give their third son. Timothy derives from the Greek TIMOTHEOS (time= honor; and theos = God) meaning literally, honoring God. Although it is a biblical name, it was not commonly used in the Rehoboth area, and was not used in any other branch of Fullers living in Rehoboth at that time. ( a) Timothy, son of Samuel Fuller, is on the records of the Newman Congregational Church as being baptized by Rev. Thomas Greenwood. The exact date is not given. (b)

(a) Timothy4 had a second cousin Timothy Fuller, born in Lebanon, Conn., July S, 1727, son of Benjamin3 (Benjamin2, Robert 1). This cousin may have lived in Rehoboth with friends or relatives for a few years after his mother died when he was ten years old. He married Mary Newell in Attleborough, December 1, 1746, and seven of their children were born there. The family moved to Cumberland, R.I., where their eighth and last child was born. This Timothy was a blacksmith by trade, and so-called in legal documents. These cousins were contemporary, but there is no genealogical conflict as county and town records are clear and distinct for both Timothys. (b) Cf: The New England Historical and Genealogical Register, Vol. XV, p.67.

121 122 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

Timothy's Boyhood In the hundred years between King Philip's War and the American Revolution, Rehoboth had a steady growth in population. Large families were common. The increasing number of children brought with it the necessity to provide suitable schooling. In 1712, for the first time, the Palmer river people had a direct allotment of b 10 for their own use from the total school appropriation of b 30. It was coupled with an obligation to maintain a separate school in the area. The length of the school term appears to have remained at 14 weeks during the years when Timothy went to school. It was still of greater importance for a boy to have most of his time available to do his share of the farm work. When Timothy was 10 years old the new church in Palmer river was ready for use and became the community center. It doubtless resulted in greater interest by the children in church affairs, both religious and social. The new minister, Rev. David Turner, lived in the neighborhood. He was well educated, talented and popular. He made an effective teacher and leader for the children. Timothy was fourteen when his father died December 19, 1724. It was an impressionable age to witness the events attendant to his father's illness and death, and the burial service in the nearby churchyard. In the following months the family readjusted, with the two oldest boys, Samuel4 and Ebenezer, taking over the responsibility of running the big farm. Mother Dorothy became the legal guardian of the seven younger children and the property left to them by their father. The Fuller Household 1725 - 1740 Mother Dorothy presumably lived in the "best end of the house" as stipulated in her husband's will, and managed the affairs of the household. The remainder of the house had to accomodate somehow, her six boys and three girls. Just how large this house was we now have no way of knowing. If typical of the time when it was built it would have had one large room about sixteen feet square, three or perhaps four smaller rooms, and an attic. In Samuel's inventory the largest item is-£ 48 for beds and bedding, which might indicate that much of the room in the house was taken up by sleeping equipment. However, there must have been some "doubling-up" of the younger children at least, come night-time. During this period of 15 years natural events brought about changes in the household, most of them while Timothy was living TIMOTHY4 FULLER 123 there. Sister Dorothy was married on January 26, 1725/ 6 and was the first to leave home. Oldest brother Samue14 married on February 16, 1726/7, but as the larger part of the house was not used by his mother, he doubtless brought his bride home and adjusted the rest of the family accordingly. On November 3, 1727 sister Ruth died at age 19, and on May 21, 1731 Noah, in his tenth year, also died. Ebenezer married on June 1, 1731, and most probably by that time had built a house for himself on the adjacent acres he inherited. Timothy4 was next to marry, on October 27, 1737, and he moved to his new house on Wolf Plain. With Timothy gone, those remaining were Mother Dorothy, Samuel4 and his second wife Waitstill with their four young children. Also the twins, Moses and Aaron, and youngest sister Mary. The last two of Dorothy;'s children to leave the homestead were Moses who married in January 1740, and finally Aaron who married in October 1740. From now on the occupants of the house seem to have been Mother Dorothy, sister Mary ( c), and Samue14 and his family. Samuel's second wife, Waitstill, died and he married for the third time on December 6, 1739. Over the next 20 years ten more children were born. It would seem that Dorothy had little time nor reason to be lonesome with 14 grandchildren to liven up the old homestead. It would be most interesting to know how many Fullers now living could trace their ancestry back to one of the children born in this old Samuel Fuller homestead. Tinwthy Comes of Age On March 8, 1731/ 2, Timothy reached the age of 21 and his mother, having completed her guardianship, would have given him full ownership of his inherited lands. A year later he sold his fifteen acres at Palmer river to Elisha Bliss (his brother-in-law to be) for-£ 80. In this deed to Elisha, it is stated that Timothy's father purchased 13 of the acres from the Coopers, and the two acres of meadow from Wheaton's heirs. This is the only record to show that SamueJ3 had purchased this land. At about this same time Timothy acquired land on Rocky Hill in the Wolf Plain area. The 7¼ acres which he purchased September 30,

(c) Rehoboth town records show that Mary was supported by the town for the latter years of her life. At a Town Meeting held August 31, 1761, the town granted "Samll fullers acompt for providing for his sister Mary fuller from the first day of March 17 60 to the first day of March 1761 -- E 10-18-00." A similar vote was taken over the next nine years for amounts averaging E 11 per year. The last grant was made at the October 1, 1770 meeting. Presumably Mary died shortly afterwards although there is no record of her death. 124 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

1736 from Jacob Ormsbee, is described in the deed as "adjoyning to his owne land at the south end of Wolf Plain." I have not found in the records when and how he acquired "his owne land" in this area and therefore am unable to document it. It seems more than probable that his mother gave the 30 acres bequeathed to his deceased brother Noah, to Timothy, as the other members of the family were individually well taken care of with sizeable farms in the Palmer river area. Possibly Timothy paid his mother for the 30 acres from the E 80 which he had recently received. The Wolf Plain land was undeveloped, and the value per acre would have been less than that of Palmer river land. When Timothy died in 1782 he left about 90 acres in one tract at Wolf Plain. There appears to be no recorded deeds or other records to tell how and when he acquired the larger part of this acreage. The Wolf Plain area is about three or four miles north of the Palmer river neighborhood. It borders north of the area later called Perryville. Much of the Wolf Plain area is very rocky. It encompasses a section called Rocky Hill on which Timothy's acreage was located. It would be difficult to plow Timothy's land for ordinary farming. Over the years it has been used for its best purpose, namely, for grazing sheep and cattle and for planting orchards. What urged Timothy to sell out and leave the established Palmer river community and settle on this undeveloped and rocky acreage we can only surmise. We know that his father, Samuel3, had an orchard of some size on his Palmer river farm, as in his will he gave twenty trees to his wife Dorothy. In the 1708 division of land he acquired ten acres on Wolf Plain. There was probably open land there then which could be readily used for orchard trees. In 1713 when another land division was made, Samuel chose 20 more acres on Wolf Plain. It would seem that he had decided to expand his orchards. Trees were grown from seed in those years, so he may have been planning ahead for his boys. Apples would have been the most saleable product as cider, both hard and soft, was a popular beverage. As no mention of barrels or casks is made in Samuel's inventory, it is probable that he sold the apples and let others make the cider. Timothy, at age 14 when his father died, would have been the logical son to take over and care for the orchards at Wolf Plain. The older boys, Samuel and Ebenezer, had plenty to do in operating their large farms at Palmer river and would have little time to spare for the apple orchard three or four miles away. If our premises are TIMOTHY4 FULLER 125

reasonably correct, it can be assumed that Timothy's interest in becoming an apple grower became greater as the trees became more productive.( d) Planning for his Future Home It seems evident that for several years prior to his marriage, Timothy was planning to make his home on Wolf Plain and to increase his acreage there. There is also an indication that Hannah Bliss was more than casually interested in Timothy's plans. In the 1735 division of common lands Hannah was entitled to 2½ acres with her -b 25 in Commonage Rights inherited from her father. She chose her 2½ acres on Wolf Plain adjoining Timothy's land. They both must have known the area well and agreed to pioneer in this isolated section of Rehoboth. Living there, they would be without near neighbors as there were no houses within a radius of a mile or more at that time. There was no town road leading into Timothy's property and no school yet in that part of the town. They probably realized to some extent, the difficulties they would have to face, but appear to have out-weighed them with a mutual desire to enjoy the freedom of isolation. ( e) Timothy builds his House We don't know the exact year when Timothy built his house. He had money to start building in 1733, when he sold his Palmer river acres to Elisha Bliss for -b 80. He probably built a barn first as this was easiest and quickest to accomplish. He probably started the house in 1736, the year before he was married. In the Proprietors'

(d) The current owner (1963) of practically all of Timothy's land and his old house and barn on Wolf Plain, told me that about 1925 when he was a boy, much of the land J,ad fruit trees standing but much neglected. He could remember many apple trees, also some pear trees and a few peach trees, none of which bore very good fruit. These trees were allowed to die and were gradually removed to clear the land for pasturing cows, as his father, the previous owner, was a milk dealer. There are still a few old apple trees growing here and there on the farm, a reminder of olden days. (e) Evert today the Wolf Plain section is sparsely settled. There is but one house visible from Timothy's, about a quarter mile south on Rocky Hill Road. It was built by Benjamin Bullock about 200 years ago. There is another very old house and barn about half a mile away on the present Holmes street, a narrow gravel road which meets Rocky Hill Road at the entrance to Timothy's front yard. These three old houses have been standing alone in the area for more than two centuries. In all these years no one else has built and lived in the neighborhood, until very recently (1965) when one new house has been built on Holmes street. The reason this area has been avoided is doubtless because there is plenty of better land elsewhere in Rehoboth. However, tluee successive generations of Fullers persisted in raising their families in this house and neighborhood, over a period of 125 years. 126 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

Land Records we note the 5-3/4 acres he purchased from David Newman was "laid out to the said Timothy Fuller adjoyning to his owne land northerly from his house on Wolf Plaine." This tract was 'laid out' or surveyed, on March 19, 1738/9. His house, therefore, can be dated no later than 1739 and more probably was finished in 1736 or 1737. It is one of the very old houses in Rehoboth. Timothy's house was small but attractive with its gambrel roof and low eaves. It was set back from the eastern boundary of his land about forty feet. At an early date a road was laid out called Rocky Hill Road, which went past Timothy's house and land. This was the most direct route to the center of Rehoboth, but today it is hardly more than a cart path through the woods. The front, or east end of the house facing this road was 25 feet wide and 18½ feet from the sill at ground level to the peak of the gambrel roof. The side walls were 22 feet long and 9 feet from ground level to the eaves. None of the foundation wall showed, so the house looked as though it actually sat on the ground. The chimney came out through the roof at the west end. The entrance door was on the south wall. In later years (date unknown) another entrance door was made in the east end and opened directly into the living room. The barn originally was 22 feet long, 16½ feet wide, and about 15 feet from ground level to the peak. The north wall of the barn was in line with the north wall of the house, with a space of about 85 feet between the house and barn. There were stalls for three cows at the far end of the barn. A board wall separated these stalls from the center section where there was a single larger stall for the horse, and space for a cart and farm tools. All of the stalls were floored with hewn logs, but the rest of the barn had bare ground. A hayloft took up most of the barn at the west end, but the roof was so low that there was little room for much hay. Sometime later the size of the barn was increased by adding 20 feet to the east end. This part was floored with thick boards and may have been used as a work shop, as well as storage space. It is my belief that Timothy built all of the barn and most of the house himself. He had doubtless learned by watching carpenters build other houses like his. As will be noted in his inventory ( 1782) he owned certain basic carpentering tools: hammers, saws, gimlets, draw knife, chisel froe, ruler, adz, and four axes. Like most houses of the early years, the framework was hand hewn oak timbers. Timothy could have readily cut and hewn the sills, corner posts, beams, rafters, cross braces, etc., as neither precision TIMOTHY4 FULLER 127 nor exact duplication of similar pieces was necessary. It was, of course, slow work for one man alone to prepare all of the necessary pieces, and must have taken Timothy well over a year to finish. The arrangement of the framework, with dimensions of the component members, is shown on the drawing herewith. Variations in dimensions of similar pieces were due to various sizes of logs used. It is noticeable that the sills, beams, and supporting posts were considerably oversized for this small house. The entire framework was assembled with mortised joints and wooden pins. Before the frame could be raised, the cellar had to be dug and the foundation walls finished. It was a partial cellar under the south half of the house. Timothy probably did the digging, but whoever laid up the stone walls for the foundation did an expert job. Flat stones, split to be three or four inches thick, were laid up neatly and solidly for the four walls and the chimney base. Rising from the stone walled chimney base, starting about a foot below the living room floor level, was the brickwork of the fireplaces and oven. In the living room at the west end, the main fireplace for cooking and heating had an opening about four feet wide, three feet high and thirty inches deep. A brick oven at the right of the fireplace had a dome-shaped roof above the baking floor. This floor was partly circular and quite large, extending four feet back from the front of the opening. (f). The right hand side of the oven was the back side of a smaller fireplace in the northwest bedroom. The flue of this fireplace went up over the roof of the oven into the main chimney. All told it was a curious, but practical, job of bricklaying that accomplished a combined house heating and cooking unit. Timothy would have needed plenty of help to raise and fit the heavy timbers for the framework. After this was done, and the mason had finished his work, the boarding-in and all the remaining carpentry work could have been handled by Timothy alone. In accordance with the practice of that time, the boarding for the side walls of the house was placed vertically. These were heavy chestnut

(f) The oven was prepared for baking by burning wood chips on the floor of the oven. More chips and sticks were added from time to time and the fire was gradually pushed further into the oven. It would probably take an hour or more to get a good brisk fue burning all over the bottom of the oven. When the oven was hot enough to use, the ashes and hot coals were raked out and thrown into the fireplace. Then the food to be cooked was pushed into place on the oven floor, a sheet metal door placed over the opening, and things left to bake for several hours. Those items which required the longest baking were at the back of the oven, and those which could be cooked quickly were toward the front and were removed first. All told, it was a process requiring patience and experience. 128 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

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Framework of the TIMOTHY FULLER house Approximate dimensions of timber

First floor: Sills 8" x 8". East-west sills 24' 9". North-south sills 21 '. Summer beam 1O" x 8" Chimney girts 8" x 8" and 8" x 6" Joists 4" x 4" and 3" x 4" Long joists (2) north side - 10" logs flat top and partly hewed sides. Comer posts 6" x 6" Top of sill to bottom of end girt, 7 ft.± Second floor: End girts 6" x 6" Summer beam 8" x 8½" Chimney girts 6" x 6" Joists 4" x 4" Attic: Purlin posts 6" x 7" Purlins 6" x 7½" Top of end girt to bottom of purlins 6' 2" Rafters (5) 5" x 5", spaced about 5' 3" Cross braces (5) 5" x 4" or 5" x 3", spaced about three feet apart. TIMOTHY4 FULLER 129 boards about two inches thick. The boarding for the roof was not quite as heavy and laid horizontally across the rafters. His boards and we expect his doors and windows also, might have been obtained from Ephraim Bliss (Hannah's brother) who operated a saw mill at Palmer river. The original doors were batten doors with feather-edge overlapping joints. Three of the original batten doors were still in place inside the house when I made these notes. Since among his tools, Timothy had a 'chisel Froe', he probably made his own clapboards for the side walls. (See sketch) It could also be used to split shingles for the roof. Making all of this material by hand from cedar logs would have been slow and laborious, but that method seems to have been common practice at that time. A 'drawing-knife' was used to smooth the shingles and clap­ boards after they had been split. There are many questions con­ cerning the building of this inter­ esting old house which can not now be answered with certainty. Through the courtesy of the present owner, the writer was able to examine the construction of the entire house. Measure- A FROE was used to split shingles from a men ts of the rooms, doors, win- block of wood. The blade was wedge shaped dows, timbers and other details, about 10" long. The top of the blade was struck by a short wooden maul or were made. Numerous photo- 'froe-club'. Then as now, cedar was the graphs were taken which un- preferred wood for shingles. The froe was also used for making clapboards. To smooth happily show the building in bad the sides and surface of either clapboards or repair, as no one had lived in the shingles a 'drawing knife'_would be used. house for a number of years. About the year 1800, Timothy's son built an addition on the west end of the house, but instead of matching the lines of the gambrel roof he simply built an 'A' or gable roof. This addition and the reason for it.will be described in Chapter VI. A picture of the house as it appeared in 1957 was taken by the writer and shows the entire building including the addition. This photo is also included in Chapter VI. 130 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

To show the probable appearance of the original house and barn, the drawing herewith is based on actual measurements, deed records, and the photograph. The floor plan and drawing of the framework are made from actual measurements. Some dimensions are averages as the rooms were not quite square and ceiling heights varied from one side of a room to the other. These drawings could be used as the basis for building a replica of Timothy's house, should anyone be so inclined. My principal objective in making them, however, was to have a record of Timothy's accomplishment. Timothy was Also a Cordwainer (Shoemaker) Searching through old records can result in the discovery of documents whose unexpected contents can change a previously acceptable concept. In a deed of 1733 made when Timothy was 22 years old, he was called a 'laborer' and such he could have been if he was working on his brother's farm or for someone else. In a deed of 1738 he was called 'husbandman', which is another term for farmer, and by that time this was undoubtedly his principal occupation. In deeds thirty years later, and in probate records, he was always referred to as 'yeoman'. This was the then current appellation for a freeholder or owner of property of the most responsible class of people. If these deeds and probate records were all that we had to consider, it would be a practical certainty that Timothy's lifetime occupation was solely that of farming. However, in searching some of the old record books of the Court of Common Pleas at Taunton, the following court case was on page 633 of the book dated 1730-1737.

Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth in ye County of Bristol, Cordwainer, Plaint vs. Samll Luther of Rehoboth aforsd Cord wain er, Deft to answer to ye pit in a plea of ye case for not paying to ye pit or order for value Recd ye sum of five Pounds and sixteen shillings in Bills of Publick credit for yt ye Deft at Rehoboth in ye county aforsd on ye 13th Day of April 1736 by his note of yt Date promist to Pay ye aforsd sum in Like money as abovesd to ye plt by ye Last Day of ye then Instant April ye nonpayment whereof tho Demanded is to ye Damage of ye sd Timothy Fuller as he saith ye sum of Ten Pounds. The plt appeared by his atty Comfort Carpenter & ye Deft being thrice solemnly called made Default which was recorded. It is therefore considered by the Court yt Timothy Fuller recover against Samll Luther ye sum of t 5=16=0 money Debt and cost of Court Taxed att Two pounds eighteen shillings. E.G.Augt ye3Istl736. (Pit== plaintiff. Deft= defendant. E.G.=execution given.) -i s: 0 -i :c

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Ground floor plan of the Timothy Fuller house. Access to the attic was by ladder probably in the buttery back of the fireplace. Access to the cellar was through the bulkhead outside at the southeast corner of the house. TIMOTHY4 FULLER 133

The court in recording Timothy as a cordwainer would not be apt to make a mistake. We don't know why his fellow cordwainer, Samuel Luther, owed him the tS - 16. Nor do we know why Timothy would have to go to court with a lawyer to collect his money. It seems probable that Timothy loaned him this amount on a promise of quick repayment and Mr. Luther fell down on his promise. In any event, we are mainly interested to learn that Timothy was also known as a cordwainer or shoemaker. As further indication that this was a fact, it can be noted in his inventory ( 1782) that he had four lasts among his list of tools as well as a small stock of tanned leather and seven sheepskins. His personal effects included three pairs of shoes and two pairs of boots, making him well provided for in this respect. During his 45 years of married life he must have made many pairs of shoes and boots for his family, as well as for himself, at a considerable saving in money. It was a useful trade to have and probably gave him a small income as a part-time occupation. He could have made his own leather by tanning cowhides and sheepskins from his own flock.

Petition to Move Palmer River Church Northward We find Timothy recorded as the third signer of a petition, prepared for reading at town meeting, requesting consideration of moving the church further toward the north part of town. Timothy's land on Wolf Plain was a good four miles from the Palmer River church so he would naturally be in favor of having it closer. Doubtless the other signers had their homes on the north side of town. The arguments put forth by the petitioners are interesting and are quoted from Rehoboth Town Meetings Book 2, page 291.

To the Town of Rehoboth at their meeting the 10th Day of May 1737. Gentlemen & Neighbors: The humble Request of us the Subscribers living at Palme rs river in sd Town is that the sd Town would give us their advice. And if they think it Reasonable and proper, their Assistance in Removing the meeting house at Palmcrs river further Toward the Northward, in order that it 134 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

might better Accomidate Not only the hearers there: but the Town in Generali: for which we offer the following reasons---- 1st. Because it Dos not seem Likely to us that if the meeting house should continue where it now standeth that the hearers living conveniant to come to it will ever be able of them selves to maintain a minister without help from the other part of the Town there being not much land thereabouts but what is already settled and Improved and so not Likely for the people to Increase much in Number---- 2dly. If the sd meeting house should be Removed so far Northward as to accomidate the whool of that part of the Town it would be Likely to prevent any part there of being Taken of with part of Attleborough (as a Township by themselves) and if that be prevented we Dout not but when the Land is more setled and Improved that part will be able of themselves to maintain a minister without help from the sd other or west part of the Town, and the people their will not Travill further to meeting then many do in the sd west part. We Humbly Leave the affair to the Towns Wise Consideration willing to Receive Instruction from them and to act and do therein that which shall be most for the Intrist of the Town and maintaining of peace amongst our selves. David Burr James Redaway William Blanding John Willmarth Timothy Fuller Abiah Carpenter Benjamin Mansfield Abraham Carpenter Ephrim Bliss Abial Carpenter Jonathan Bauldwin Thomas Carpenter Abraham Bliss David Carpenter John Bliss Nathaniel Bliss Joseph Barbur The town was not ready for this move, and no positive action was taken at this town meeting nor for many more meetings to come. The town as "The Second Precinct of Rehoboth" incorporated the eastern part of the town in 1759. From this time on the church members raised their own funds and had no financial help from the tax levy. It was not until 1773 that the <;ongregationalists built their new church about two miles north of the Palmer river church, on what is now the Village Cemetery grounds near the center of town.

Timothy's First Marriage Intentions to marry Hannah Bliss were filed with the Town Clerk on August 13, 1737, but they were not married until about two and a half months later. We do not know the reason for the delay, but TIMOTHY4 FULLER 135 perhaps their new house was not quite ready. Their marriage is recorded as follows: This may Certifie that Timothy fuller and Hannah Bliss both of Rehoboth ware Lawfully married by me the Subscriber October ye 27th 1737. Thomas Bowen, Justice Peace Entered pr me Ezekiel Read, Town Clerk. Timothy was 26 and Hannah was 23 years of age. The Fullers and the Blisses were near neighbors in the Palmer river community. Both had large families. Hannah's father, Jonathan Bliss, had ten children, and Timothy's father had nine. Jonathan Bliss was enterprising and well-to-do. He died when Hannah was about six years old and left a large estate of about 500 acres, several houses and barns, a sawmill, and considerable personal property. All of his estate was divided by will among his wife and children. There is much to be found in the old records about this Bliss family. I have extracted items concerning Hannah which are quoted later in this chapter. Although she was not a direct maternal ancestor of this Fuller lineage, her property holdings were such that Timothy's prosperity and the well-being of all of his children were appreciably increased thereby. Hannah s Land is Sold Timothy and Hannah had been married only three months when they deeded 34 acres of her inherited land to her brother Ephraim Bliss. The deed is dated January 25, 1737 /8, and is recorded in Bristol County Deeds, book 28, page 113. This land adjoined Ephraim's homestead land. It was appraised at about -I:, 75 in 1719 when their father's estate was administered. Ephraim bought it for -I:, 170. Assuming that Ephraim supplied lumber and other material for Timothy's new house, perhaps this land transaction was to pay off all that Timothy owed. However, under the prevalent law, when a woman married her real estate became the property of her husband. Hannah undoubtedly knew this and we believe she was glad to keep the land under Bliss ownership and to have her own house free and clear of debt. A year later, March 14, 1738/9, they sold Hannah's remaining property at Palmer river to her brother Elisha Bliss. This must have been a more valuable location as Elisha paid -I:, 120 for 12 acres. There does not appear to have been any offsetting debt to Elisha. Some of this money may have been used to buy more land adjoining Timothy's at Rocky Hill. The only deed recorded however. is for 5-3/4 acres he purchased from David Newman. 136 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

Children of Timothy4 and Hannah The children of Timothy ffuller Recorded as followeth - Bettee ffuller daughter to Timothy and his wife Hannah was born February 17, 1738/9 Hannah born September 24, 1741 Huldah born December 8, 1743 Timothy born November 1, 1745. Infant Timothy lived only three weeks. His death is recorded as follows: Timothy fuller son of Timothy fuller died November 22, 1745.

Hannah ( Bliss) Fuller Dies Hannah had just passed her 34th birthday when she died on January 25, 17 48/9. There is nothing in the record to tell us the cause of her death. She was buried in the Palmer river churchyard cemetery. Her gravestone is in reasonably good condition and from a rubbing made of the face of the stone, a copy has been drawn and reproduced on page 179. It is one of the very old Fuller gravestones now extant.

Timothy's Second Marriage On June 3, 1749, Timothy filed intentions to marry Elizabeth Thurber. A month later they were married by Elder Richard Round of the Baptist church. Then was Timothy Fuller and Elizabeth Thurber (both of Rehoboth) married July 2d, 1749. Timothy was 38 years old and Elizabeth was 23. She was born on December 16, 1723, the first of eleven children of Jonathan and Mehittabell Thurber. She was first cousin once removed of Hannah (Bliss) Fuller. As Elizabeth is a direct maternal ancestor of this Fuller lineage, I have included her genealogy and a brief history of the early Thurbers later in this chapter. Elizabeth did not bring a large dowry of valuable land holdings to her marriag~ as Hannah had done. Timothy needed somethone to care for his three growing daughters and to run his household. They soon had more children to occupy the little house on the hill. TIMOTHY4 FULLER 137

Children of Timothy4 and Elizabeth Recorded on the same page with his first four children: by his 2d wife Elizabeth Sarah born May 3, 1750 Timothy born November 21, 1751 Mehetable born March 10, 1755 Amos born May 27, 17 60 Timothy4 Appointed Guardian Under date of January 6, 1755, a series of four guardianships were established in which Timothy was bonded with his younger brothers, Aaron and Moses. This was done in anticipation of inheritances for Timothy's and Aaron's minor children from their maternal grand­ mother's will. These guardianships are briefed as follows: 1. Timothy fuller, Moses fuller, and Aaron fuller all of Rehoboth, yeomen, .... bound to George Leonard, Esqr in the sum of I: 2000. Conditions: Timothy fuller is nominated guardian unto Huldah fuller under fourteen years of age, daughter of ye said Timothy fuller. 2. Timothy fuller, Moses fuller, Aaron fuller all of Rehoboth, yeomen, ... bound to George Leonard, Esqr in the sum of I: 2000. Conditions: Timothy fuller is nominated guardian unto Hannah fuller under fourteen years of age, daughter of ye said Timothy fuller. 3. Aaron fuller, Timothy fuller, Moses fuller all of Rehoboth, yeomen, .... bound to George Leonard, Esqr in the sum of I: 2000. Conditions: Aaron fuller is nominated guardian unto Bethia fuller under fourteen years of age, daughter of ye said Aaron fuller. 4. Aaron fuller, Timothy fuller, Moses fuller all of Rehoboth, yeomen, .... bound to George Leonard, Esqr in the sum of I: 2000. Conditions: Aaron fuller is nominated guardian unto Aaron fuller under fourteen years of age, son of ye said Aaron fuller. These four documents are filed at Bristol County Registry of Probate in an envelope marked 'Fuller, 1755 - Aaron, Bethia, Hannah, Huldah.' The four children at that time were about 12 and 13 years old. Timothy's first wife, Hannah, had died six years previously. Aaron's first wife Rachel, had died nearly ten years previously. Hannah and Rachel were sisters, the daughters of Jonathan3 and Mary Bliss. Moses Fuller had married the youngest Bliss sister, Mary, but as she was then living there was no need for a guardian for their five young children. What was the sudden necessity for creating these guardianships at this time? The following petition of Timothy's oldest daughter Betty, gives the answer. 138 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

January ye 18th 1755. To ye Honbl George Leonard, Judge of ye Probate of Wills for ye County of Bristol in New England, the humble petition of Bettey ye daughter of Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth in ye County afsd, Humbly declaring yt she is a Legatee in ye will of her Hond grandmother Mary Hunt, widow of Mr. Peter Hunt in Rehoboth, and being of Lawfull age to chose her guardian she doth chose, and doth humbly request yt her Hond Father Timothy Fuller may be her guardian: and your Honor in granting my petition, will oblige me as in duty bound to pray. Bettey Fuller. Bristol ss. Rehoboth January ye 25th 1755 then Betty Fuller signer to the above written Instrument personally appeared and acknowledged the same to be her owne volantary act and deed. Before me Danll Carpenter Justice of Peace. Two days later, January 20, 1755, Timothy signed another bond which is briefed as follows: Timothy Fuller, Joshua Lyon, Isaiah Hunt all of Rehoboth, yeomen, ... bound to George Leonard, Esqr, for the sum of E 2000. Conditions: Timothy Fuller is nominated Guardian of Betsey Fuller, a minor above the age of fourteen years, daughter of ye said Timothy Fuller. This bond and the petition are filed at Bristol County Registry of Probate in an envelope marked "Betsey Fuller 1755." The maternal grandfather of these five minor Fuller children was Jonathan Bliss3, who died in 1719 at the age of 53. His widow, Mary Bliss, remained unmarried until October 25, 1752 when she, at age 68, married Peter Hunt. (RVR 3:325). This marriage was brief in duration as Mary died December 10, 1754, in her 71 st year. Her gravestone is in the old Palmer River churchyard. A few months prior to her marriage to Peter Hunt, Mary Bliss, widow, made a will which was dated June 17, 1752. (B.C.P. 14:258) She bequeathed to her then living children; to the children of her daughter Hannah (Fuller), deceased; to the children of her daughter Rachel (Fuller), deceased. The administration of the estate was carried out promptly by Moses and his wife Mary, who had been appointed executors. The inventory had been taken December 23, 1754. (B.C.P. 14:261 ). The total appraised value of her estate was E 38-06-1, of which E 9 was for two acres of fresh meadow. The balance was personal items. The five grandchildren were given items of furniture, linen goods, pewter dishes, etc., amounting to about E 2 in value for each child. It TIMOTHY4 FULLER 139 hardly seems worthwhile for Timothy to have been committed to a total bonding oft 10,000 for such a very small part of a small estate. Timothy's Taxes The selectmen acting as a board of assessors, made out the annual tax list for each district. These lists specified the assessed valuation of each property owner, showing both real estate and personal property. These lists were then given to the constables for collection. When the full amount of money on his list was collected the constable turned it over to the town treasurer and got a receipt. The list of names was of no particular importance after the money was collected, and although the list was supposed to be returned to the town clerk, very often it was not. We are therefore without a source of detailed information which would give us knowledge of Timothy's annual tax payment. Up to the beginning of the Revolutionary War, the annual tax levy voted at the spring town meeting grew very slowly each year and Timothy's tax payments were probably about four or five shillings per year. In chapter five of Early Rehoboth volume IV, Mr. Bowen explains how he came into possession of several years accumulation of old tax lists dating from 1754 to 1822. Many of these years were not complete in all districts. He selected the years 1759, 1765, and 1769 to print in full. We find Timothy in each of these years on the fifth list or district. For the year 1759 the actual tax assessed against Timothy was 2s-1 d on real estate and 2s-2d on personal property, making a total tax of 4s-3d. David Perry was the constable for the fifth district that year and collected a total oft 19-12-9 from 87 property owners and 114 poll taxes. The assessed valuation was not -shown on this list so we are unable to estimate the valuation of Timothy's property. In 1765, Timothy's real estate was valued at t 16 and his personal property at t 11-6. The exact tax to be collected was not given. Josiel Perry was the constable and his list called for a total collection of t 41-19-10 from 109 property owners. There were 133 poll taxes. By computation we find Timothy's tax was 7 shillings. The total tax levy for the town wast 229-14-6. For the year 1769 Timothy's real estate was valued at t 18 and his personal property at t 7-10. His real estate valuation wast 2 higher than in 1765 although he had in the meantime sold a tract of five acres of his land for t 3-16. His personal property was I, 4 lower than in 17 65, possibly due to having fewer cattle or other live-stock 140 TIMOTHY4 FULLER at the time of assessment. In any event, his tax appears to have dropped to Ss-1 ld for 1769. William Dryer, Jr. was the constable and his list for the fifth district called for a total collection of -E 39-9 from 112 property owners and 14 7 poll taxes. Timothy now had two polls to pay as his son Timothy5 had become 18 years old. The years of low tax levies, controlled by the voters of the town with the money to be spent largely for the town itself, was soon coming to an end. With the Revolutionary War came ever increasing tax levies by the General Court at Boston. In the year 1780 the Rehoboth tax assessment reached the immense sum of -E 50,527. These huge tax levies were the consequence of great depreciation in the value of paper money issued by the Continental Congress. We will see later, in the settlement of Timothy's estate in 1782, the impact of high taxes and the acute shortage of hard currency which resulted in his being unable to pay his bills. Everybody, of course, had similar financial difficulties, as there was no escape from the monetary instability until many years after the war was over. Pre-Revolutionary History During the last two decades of his life, Timothy4 was contempor­ ary with the events which led to the American Revolution, and he lived to hear of the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown October 18, 1781. Timothy's children were also contemporary with these historic years, and most of them lived to become citizens of the United States of America. It seems appropriate to review some of the more important underlying conditions which caused the freedom-loving Americans to ultimately separate from their Mother country. George III, at age 22, succeeded to the English throne in 1760. The year before had seen great victories for England over France and Spain, and their colonies had been captured by the British admirals. The British Empire was now the greatest and richest the world had known since the fall of Rome. Rapidly expanding trade and soaring production created a large class of wealthy English merchants and manufacturers. The first decade of George Ill's reign was a period when the British Empire should have been coordinated and solidified, but the men who ruled England in the name of George III were not the ablest group, and, with few exceptions, had little concern for the welfare of their colonies in America. Continual changes in political leaders, and the struggle for personal power, deprived England of a stable government with a settled policy. The extended wars with France TIMOTHY4 FULLER 141 and Spain had been very costly: the national debt was t 130,000,000 sterling. Adding rapidly to the national debt was the expense of holding 10,000 men in British uniform in North America to keep an eye on the beaten French. Parliament proposed to lay this expense on the colonies, who protested that they had not been repaid for the expenses of the troops they contributed to the conquest of Canada. Further, they should not be taxed without representation in Parliament. All of their protesting was ignored. The American people were aware of the prosperity of Britain's traders, merchants and manufacturers, and that Britain was the dominant power in the world. Between Britain and her colonies was an increasingly adverse balance of trade which the colonies were required to pay in gold. The American merchants found they could buy very little with their paper currency and the shortage of hard currency was acute. To prevent wild inflation, the British govern­ ment forbade the use of all paper currency for payment of British goods and thus further intensified the financial burden in America. The debts of the merchants and farmers kept increasing with far-reaching effect on the economic well-being of all Americans. It was during the first decade of George Ill's reign that the financial troubles in America went from bad to worse. Steps were taken to impose outright levies on the colonies and a long list of items was adopted to produce revenue for Britain. In 1765 the Stamp Act was put into effect. This was a year in which there were many bankruptcies and business failures in America. The taxation and tariff measures hurt American merchants because the people boycotted British goods with the result that business tapered off to o fraction of its previous level. The Stamp Act was repealed in 17 66. The Townsh~nd Acts followed in 1767, producing a set of rates or taxes on imports of paper, lead, glass, paint, and tea from England. In February 1768, the Massachusetts legislature denounced the Townshend Acts as establishing taxation without representation. Boston was the focal point of colonial resistance to such taxation and consequently suffered greater retaliation than New York or Philadelphia. On September 30, 1768, about 4,000 British troops commanded by General Gage, landed in Boston and billeted in , the State House, and even in private households. The situation was most unhappy for the citizens of Boston and surrounding towns. Tensions built up, and tempers flared, climaxed by the Boston Massacre on March 5, 1770,_ when British troops were taunted into firing on a mob on King Street, killing five. 142 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

The Townshend Acts were repealed in 1770, except the tax on tea which was retained to affirm the Crown's right to tax. The Boston Tea Party, December 16, 1773, which dumped 342 chests of tea into the Boston harbor, resulted in further retaliation by Britain. In May 1774 came the Boston Port Bill closing the port to all shipping until the tea was paid for. The entire New England fishing fleet was barred from the North Atlantic fishing grounds. The "Intolerable Acts" were passed, cancelling all Massachusetts privileges under their charter. The Crown, which previously only appointed the Governor, would now appoint all of his Council. The Governor was to appoint all judges, sheriffs, and Justices of Peace. Town meetings could be held only if approved by the Governor. Massachusetts and all of New England were forbidden to trade anywhere except with England or the British West Indies. Rehoboth people were well aware of the oppressive acts passed by Parliament during these eventful years. As recorded in Rehoboth Town Meetings Book III, the voters met frequently without approval from the Governor to take action on numerous articles written into the warrant, including the usual election of town officers. At the town meeting held September 19, 177 4, they chose delegates to attend the proposed Provincial Congress, and on November 21, 1774, voted to abide by the results of the Continental and Provincial Congresses. There is no doubt as to the prevailing sentiment of the majority of the Rehoboth people. There were a number of Tories or Loyalists in town, but a committee was elected to "inspect into the conduct of the inhabitants .... and if any person shall avail himself of the unhappy situation of this Province such person or persons shall be considered as unfit for civil society, obnoxious to all good men, and their names shall be returned to the Town and stand recorded as infamous violators of the Laws of God and the Rights of mankind." The end of the colonial era was approaching when the delegates from the thirteen colonies met at Philadelphia, September 1774, as the First Continental Congress. Resolutions were adopted de­ nouncing the various tax measures and other oppressive acts. The rights of the colonies were set forth bluntly - rights to life, liberty, and property, and of Assemblies to hold exclusive powers of taxation as well as internal policy. In October the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts, which had previously been meeting secretly in Cambridge, met at Salem, with John Hancock as chairman. At this meeting, Massachusetts was declared an independent state. During TIMOTHY4 FULLER 143 the following winter the Provincial Congress worked hard to transform the village militia companies into a Massachusetts army. The trend to war could not be stopped. The battle at Lexington~ Concord, April 19, 1775, marked the turning point in the history of America. There were nearly seven long years of fighting on land and sea, from the first volley at Lexington Green to the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown October 18, 1781. We will mention but two events of the war, as they both affected the intensity of the war effort in Rehoboth, as well as nearby towns. With the evacuation of the British fleet from the Port of Boston on March 17, 177 6, active fighting was shifted from Massachusetts to New York and the southern colonies. This movement relieved the towns who feared the war would be fought in eastern Massachusetts. This relief, however, was short-lived for Rehoboth and other towns along Narragansett Bay. In December 1776, the British brought a fleet of warships to Newport harbor and landed an army of about 7,000 troops. Their ships commanded Narragansett Bay and adjacent waters. Raids were made on the surrounding countryside, burning homes and taking cattle and sheep from the farms. For nearly three years the British held Newport and the greater part of Rhode Island in a continual state of alarm. During this occupation by the British, the militia from all towns in the vicinity were frequently called upon to defend the shore to prevent the enemy from landing. The Rehoboth militia responded to many such alarms. The men would be stationed at Tiverton or Warwick, and usually served only a few days or perhaps a week or two. The younger generation of Fullers, including Timothy5, responded to these calls. Apparently none of the British ships attempted to get up the Bay as far as Rehoboth or Providence. Throughout the war, Rehoboth supplied men, money, and pro­ visions. In 1780 for example, the town was called upon to furnish 42,000 lbs. of beef, and the same amount in 1781. It is very probable that Timothy4 and his son Timothy operated their farm to produce cattle for the armed forces. Just how fairly they were paid under the prevailing inflationary conditions is difficult to visualize. If they sold for paper currency it would have rapidly depreciated in value. It does not appear from Timothy's estate, settled in 1782, that he made any money from his farming efforts. On the contrary, judging from the numerous small debts he owed to various individuals, it seems as though Timothy was hoping his financial situation would ultimately improve and he could then pay all his creditors. 144 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

Timothy's Death Timothy died May 24, 1782, in his 72nd year. From the inscription on his gravestone it can be inferred that he died of a "firce disease". He was buried in the new cemetery located in the center of Rehoboth, now called Village Cemetery. Hannah, his first wife, had been buried 33 years earlier in the Palmer river cemetery. It seems reasonable to assume that Elizabeth would prefer the new cemetery location, especially as the Fuller lot in the old cemetery was practically filled with graves. Elizabeth obtained a suitable slate stone to mark Timothy's grave. Some of the old stones in the area of Timothy's appear to have been moved, so there is no assurance that Timothy is actually buried where his gravestone is presently located. Much of the inscription on his stone has deteriorated over the years and a photograph now does not show all of the original wording and ornamentation. The stone measures 18" x 26". The original wording reads: In Memory of Mr Timothy Fuller who Died May ye 24th 1782 in ye 72d Year of his age Dangers stand thick thro all the ground To push us to the Tomb; And firce Diseases wait around To hurry mortals home. Timothy was survived by five of his eight children and his wife Elizabeth. She lived for twenty years after Timothy died and undoubtedly was buried beside Timothy, but if there was once a stone to mark Elizabeth's grave it no longer is there.

TIMOTHY'S EST A TE Timothy had lived through the historic years of the formation of the new and independent government in America. Following the Declaration of Independence, on July 4, 1776, came the "Articles of Confederation" binding the thirteen colonies into a united country. On March 2, 1781 Congress had assembled for the first time under this new form of government. Timothy's estate was settled under the laws of the new constitution, or "Articles of Confederation". Practically this meant no change from previous legal procedure. He died intestate. Widow Elizabeth petitioned the court to allow her TIMOTHY4 FULLER 145 son, Timothy5, to administer the estate. Timothy5 was the only living male descendant, as his younger brother Amos had died during the war. Elizabeth's Petition to Probate To the Honorable Benjamin Williams, Esq., Judge of Probate of Wills and granting Letters of Administration within the County of Bristol. These are to inform you that my circumstances are such as render me incapable to administer and settle my Husband (Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth deceased) Estate. Therefore pray you to appoint my son Timothy Fuller Administrator to whom it by Law will fall as I am not able to do the Business. Your compliance will oblige Your to serve. Rehoboth August ye first O,. ~ ~ A.D. 1782 ry~ aTA_

On the same date Judge Shubael Peck appointed Thomas Car­ penter, Ebenezer Peck 2nd, and Ezekiel Kent to take inventory of Timothy's property. They completed their assignment promptly and two days later delivered the inventory to the court. For this work they were paid from the estate; 13 shillings to Kent, 12 shillings to Carpenter, and 11 shillings to Peck. The legal formalities moved rapidly. On August 6th Timothy received his appointment as Administrator from Judge Williams. He was bonded for -b 1000 with Thomas Carpenter and Ebenezer Peck as co-bondsmen. Following this, Timothy testified to the accuracy of the inventory and it was approved and accepted by Judge Williams.

Timothy's Bond of Administration Know all men by these presents that we Timothy Fuller, yeoman, Thomas Carpenter, yeoman, Ebenezer Peck 2nd, yeoman, all of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, are holden and stand firmly bound and obligated unto Benj Williams Judge of the Probate of Wills and granting Administrations within the County of Bristol in the full sum of one Thousand Pounds lawful money of.the said Commonwealth, to be paid unto the said Benjn Williams or his successors in the said office or Assigns: To the true payment whereof we bind ourselves and each of us and each of our Heirs, Executors and Administrators jointly and severally for the whole and in the whole, firmly by these presents. Sealed with our seals, Dated the 6th day of August in the year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Eighty-two. 146 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

The Condition of this present Obligation is such that if the above bounden Timothy(S) Fuller who is appointed Administrator on the estate ofTimothy(4) Fuller late of Rehoboth dec'd, do make or cause to be made a true and perfect Inventory of all and singular the Goods, Chattels, Rights and Credits of the said Deceased, which have or shall come to the Hands, Possession or Knowledge of him the said Timothy or into the Hands and Possession of any other Person or Persons for him and same so made do exhibit or cause to be exhibited to the Registry at the Court of Probate for the said County of Bristol at or before the 6th day of November next ensuing: and the same Goods, Rights, Chattels and Credits of the said Deceased at the time of his death, which at any time after shall come to the Hands and Possession of the said Timothy or into the Hands or Possession of any other Person or Persons for him to well and truly administer according to Law: and further, do make or cause to be made a just and true accompt of his said Administration upon Oath, at or before the 6th day of November which will be in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty three - and all the Rest and Residue of the said Goods, Chattels, Rights and Credits, which shall be found remaining upon said Administrators Accompt ( the same being first examined and allowed of by the Judge or Judges for the Time being, of Probate of Wills and granting Administrations within the County of Bristol aforesaid) he shall deliver and pay unto such Person or Persons respectively as the said Judge or Judges by his or their Decree or Sentence pursuant to the Law shall limit and appoint: And if it shall appear that any last will and Testament was made by the said Deceased, and the Executor or Executors therein named do exhibit the same into the Court of Probate for the said County of Bristol making request to have it allowed and approved accordingly: if the said Timothy Fuller within bounden being thereunto required, do render and deliver the said Letter of Administration (Approbation of such Testament being first had and made) into the said Court: then the before-written Obligation to be void and none Effect, or else to abide and remain in full Force and Virtue. Sealed and Delivered in Presence of: William Cole G. Larance CJ'i n-i (J'tljy c;., -ude,,.. 5 cJho ; (()./1'-JJ e11 fer--

-t'e e;n,f,½"4) TIMOTHY4 FULLER 147

Inventory of Timothy's Estate The inventory of Timothy's estate was made in considerable detail, as was usually the custom, and lists the acquisitions of his lifetime. There can be no doubt that he was comparatively well provided with household furniture and equipment. He had spinning and weaving equipment to make woolen and linen cloth. He grew his own flax, and had a hatchell and flax brake to prepare the fibre for spinning. The wool came from his own flock of sheep. The quantity and value of his wearing apparel indicates that he liked clothes and was well dressed. He had a good bible, valued at E 1, and a few other books. His collection of farm and other tools was extensive and useful. His accumulation of barrels and tubs was doubtless for storing his apples and cider in season. It would be interesting to know how he came into possession of the two State notes listed as the last item. It is very doubtful that these notes would pay off any of the creditors unless the town was required to take them at face value in payment of taxes. Paper currency at that time had greatly depreciated from its face value. It is noticeable that other personal property items in Timothy's inventory were not inflated to correspond· with paper currency depreciation. This seems to be true with other inventories taken in about the same period. A bushel of corn for many years was a rather stable unit of value. There was little need of money for a medium of exchange. The typical farm household of Timothy's day was an independent unit, raising and making what was needed for subsistence and exchanging surplus production, chiefly for hardware such as tools, iron kettles, brass and pewter goods, and to pay taxes. Timothy's inventory, compared with that of his father Samuel's, was about one third the value of personal property. We lack comparable details in Samuel's inventory but it is obvious that Samuel had acquired much more in household equipment and a large stock of provisions. Samuel's stock of cattle, sheep, swine and horses was valued at four times that of Timothy's. Comparing land and buildings, Samuel acquired 128 acres valued at -b 721, whereas Timothy had about 92 acres valued at -I:: 405. We can not conclude on this account that Timothy was less energetic and less ambitious than his father. Timothy may well have realized, in the years following his father's death, the burden of maintaining a large farm with a large stock of animals to feed and care for. He chose a different means of livelihood than his father and his two older brothers. His orchards and sheep raising required less demand on his 148 TIMOTHY4 FULLER effort, and he was willing to accept a more modest return. In any event, Timothy lived to be 72 whereas his father died at 48. Timothy did very well by acquiring only that 13nd suitable for his purpose which he could work by himself. He built a new house for his family, had an independent although perhaps modest living; he apparently kept out of politics nor was over-zealous as a church member, enjoyed his evenings at the tavern, doubtless discussing the rapidly changing events of the times with his fellow townsmen, and could be characterized as a substantial if not an outstanding citizen. The original inventory document is on file at Bristol County Registry of Probate at Taunton in an envelope marked "Timothy Fuller-Rehoboth-1782". It is legibly written, and from the careful detailing of items throughout the house and barn, it would appear that the appraisers looked at everything. The following is copied from the original. An Inventory of the Estate both Real & Personal whereof Mr Timothy Fuller, Late of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol, Deceased, died seized of taken by us the subscribers this 3d day of August A.D. 1782 as followeth, viz: t s d one Great Coat 16/ one Do 14/ 1 10 0 one coat & pr of Breeches b 2. one coat, Jacket & Breeches 4 10 0 Thick coat, Jacket & Breeches f: 1/ Linnen Do f: 1 2 0 0 Old coat, Jacket & Breeches 15/ four shirts 15/ 1 10 0 four pr stockings 6/ one pr Boots, pr Mitts 7/6d -- 13 6 three pr shoes, one pr Leather Boots f: 1-3/ three Hats 2.10/ 3 13 0 one gun 8/ one Bible b 1. old Books 2/6 1 10 6 one Bed wt 48 lb b 4. one Do Bolster & pellar b 2-8/ 6 8 0 one Do f: 1-4/ one underbed 6/ three bedsteads & cords f: 1-3/ 2 13 0 two coverlets 18/ two Rugs 12/ three Blankets 15 1 13 0 Seven Sheets b 1: 2/ four pr pillow cases 4/ one table cl oath 2/ 8 0 three towels 2/ two Meal Bags 5/ 7 -- Pewter Platter 2/ three Plates 1/6d Eleven lb of old Pewter 13/ -- 16 6 pint 1/2 teapot 6/ Brass Kittle f: 1 :4 warming pan 4/ 15 2 Shot Mould 5/ Iron Pot 6/ Do 3/ two Kittles 7 / Spider 2/ 3 -- one Bason 3/ frying Pan 6/ Choping Knife 2/ -- 11 0 TIMOTHY4 FULLER 149

two pr tongs two shovels 14/ pr Dogs 3/ Box Iron heater 4/ I -- two candlesticks 6d Knives & forks 8/ flesh fork 1/ 9 6 Razor 6d Stilyard 10/ Sheep Shears 2/ pr Shears 10d -- 13 4 Hatchel 12/ three chests f:; 1-8/ one table 4/ two cases & Bottles 19/ 3 3 0 wash tub 4/ three pails 3/ churn 2/6 Die tub 3/ Small tub 2/ -- 14 6 hand dish 1/ two bottles 2/ Nine wooden Plates 2/ three Ladles 2/ 7 -- three trays 2/ Kneeding trough 3/ two tubs 2/ three Chests 14/ 1 -- great chair 4/ five Do 10/ wooling wheel 9/ foot Do 5/ 8 -- three tubs 7/6 pickle tub 1/ five Baskets 10/ Lombs Qui! wheel 16/ 14 6 two pr temples 2/ two slays one harness 6/ pr warping Bar 2/ -- 10 -- tanned Leather f:; 1 :9 Seven Sheep Skins 9/ two Hhds 18/ 2 16 -- six Barrels 19 / four Do 4/ Looking Glass 12/ three J unck Bottles 1/6 16 6 two Earthern pots 1/6 two milk pans 1/6 one Jug 9d 3 9 49 lb Sheeps wool f:; 3:5/ 125 lb pork!:; 3:6/6 tobacco 8 lb 2/8 6 14 2 Sadie & Bridle 10/3 Pillion 9/ cart & wheels f: 4 Log chain 1 :8/ 6 7 3 eight Harrow teeth 16/ three Draught chains t 1 :5 2 1 -- horse tackle 15 / two Plows t 1. two Iron Barrs 15 / 2 10 -- two Staples & Rings 6/ flax Brake 4/ two forks & 2 Rakes 3/6 -- 13 6 two pr Beetle Rings, 3 wedges 6/ two Exeltree Pins 2/ 8 -- Shear mould & Sledge 8/6 two picks Dog & chisel fro 6/ -- 14 6 four axes 10/6 four hoes 4/6 Dung fork 2/6 adds 1/6 -- 19 -- Spade 5 / half cros cut saw 5/ 35 lb of old Iron 6/8 -- 16 8 one Barri! 2/ Shingle Nails 9/ four Sickles 8/ handsaw 4/ 3 -- four cythes 6/ Drawing Knife 1/6 Burn Iron 1/ four gimblets 3/ -- 11 6 two pr Nippers 3/ two hammers 1/6 rule 1/6 two scives 2/2 8 2 three Lasts 1/6 1000 feet of oak & chestnut Boards t 1-10 11 6 Mare f:; 4 three Cows f: 13 one Calf 16/6d 29 Sheep & Lambs f: 6-6 24 2 6 one Swine±, I: 13 four pigs t 1 : l 4/2d 3 7 2 150 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

two State Notes one of ten pound one of five pound 15 10 --

Sum total of Personal Estate 116 19 8 Ninety Acres of Land (Supposed to be) at t 4-10 Acre Including Buildings ------f:,405 0 0

Thomas Carpenter ) Ebenr Peck 2d ) Committee Ezekiel Kent )

Bristol ss. August 6th 1782 Then the Admintr in the Estate of the before named Timothy Fuller deceased, made Oath that the aforewritten Inventory contains the whole of that Estate the said deed died seized of so far as it is come to his hands and knowledge & when he finds any more that he will reveal the same to be of Record herewith. Benjn Williams, J. Prob.

Accounting, December 2, 1783 The next document to be filed at Probate Court was Timothy's accounting of his father's personal property. He didn't quite meet the date specified by the Court, of November 6, 1783. Doubtless there were difficulties in raising money to pay the thirty-one claimants. He had assets of t 123-9-8 to pay total claims against the estate oft 210-17-2. If the arithmetic of his account, as approved by Judge Williams had been done correctly, the total liability of the estate adds up to t 251-1-7. The horizontal additions of the smaller sums are done correctly but the matter of accurately adding the long vertical columns seems to have been too much for Timothy. Perhaps the judge was not concerned with the accuracy of the total, as long as the individual items were properly listed for payment. If Timothy5 held his own claim for t 100 in abeyance, together with his additional claim for an allowance oft 30, he would have had just about enough to satisfy all of the other claimants. Presumably he met these claims by auctioning off the livestock and as many of the other items in the inventory as necessary. A successful auction would have sold the majority of the items at a higher price than the inventory appraisal. Most of the amounts paid to the various individuals can not be readily explained now. The item oft 6-9-4 paid to Joseph Brigham appears to be the total for Timothy's last sickness as Brigham was a TIMOTHY4 FULLER 151 local doctor. The four items paid to the three constables and collector Munro were for back taxes, probably covering four years. The large item of b 33-18-0, paid to his maiden sister Hannah, might be a claim for settlement of her share of her mother's (Hannah Bliss Fuller) estate which her father had never paid to her. Joseph Goff was the proprietor of Goff Inn and also kept a general store and ran a saw-mill. We have no way of knowing just what Timothy purchased for the item of b 1-16. It is possible that it was for liquid refreshments as Timothy appears to have been a good customer at the Goff Inn. We base our conclusion on a sample from Goff's account book quoted on page 400 of Tilton's History of Rehoboth----- November 1774 Timothy Fuller detter t s d for two quarts of rum 0 2 for two quarts of rum 0 1 2 for one dram 0 0 3½ for half a pint of brande 0 0 9½ for one dram of brande 0 0 4½ for half a mug of flip ( g) 0 0 4 for one mug of flip 0 0 8 for two pipes 0 0 2

This month's bill adds up to four shillings and 11 ½ pence so proportionally, it would have taken six or seven months to reach the total of b 1-16 listed in the accounting. However, this amount could have been due for most anything that Goff sold in his store or mill. Timothy's claim for b 100 in payment for "nine year and Six month service before my fathers decease," was justified. These were the years after he became 21 that he had worked for his father on the farm without payment of regular cash wages. Excluding Sundays, this b 100 figures out to eight pence per day which is most modest. The account rendered is copied below from the original document on file at Bristol County Registry of Probate. It is in an envelope marked "Timothy Fuller - 1782." It is also in copybook 27 page 624.

(g) Flip was a spiced and sweetened drink of beer or cider, sometimes containing an egg, beaten to a froth and served in a large flaring tumbler. 152 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

To the Honorable Benjamin Williams Esqr. Judge of Probate of Wills &c for the County of Bristol - - - Your Acct Chargeth himself with the whole of all the Personal Estate whereof my Honored Father Timothy Fuller Late of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol Deceasd, Died Seized of amounting in the whole to one Hundred and Sixteen Pound Nineteen Shillings and Eight Pence as will appear by the Inventory - - - E 116 . 19 . 8 CrtotheEstate -El-10 ...... 1.10. 0 to Rent of the Real Estate besides paying taxes ...... 5 . 123 . 9 . 8 and your Acct Prays for allowance for the following articles E s d Paid to the Probate office for a Letter of Admn ...... 0. 12. 9 Paid to Benjn Pidge ...... 0 . 19 . 11 Paid to Hannah Fuller ...... 33 . 18 . 0 Paid to Nathl Paine Sr ...... 0 . 4. 0 Paid to George Larrance ...... I . 14 . I Paid to Ezra Perry ...... 0 . 17 . 7 Paid to Barzellai Bowen ...... 0 . 1 . 8 Paid to Ezra Ide ...... 2. 12. 0 Paid to Jeremiah Fisher ...... 2 . 8 . 0 Paid to Elkanah French ...... 6 . 14. 1 Paid to James Hill ...... 3 . 15 . 2 Paid to Bezallal Mann ...... 5 . 11 . 2 Paid to Abel Carpenter ...... 0. 12. 3 Paid to Ezekiel Kent ...... 0 . 13 . 0 Paid to James Daggett ...... 2 . 11 . 6 Paid to Richd Whitaker ...... 3 . 11 . 3 Paid to Thos Carpenter 2d, Attorney to the widow Rachel Hunt .... 13 . 8 . 7 Paid to Joseph Porter Constable ...... 4 . 13 . 7 Paid to William Bliss ...... 0 . 10 . 2 Paid to Noah Bliss Constable ...... 4 . 19 . 4 Paid to Joseph Goff ...... 1 . 16. 0 Paid to Joseph Brigham ...... 6 . 9 . 4 Paid to Thos Carpenter ...... 0 . 12 . 0 Paid to Ebenr Peck 2d ...... 0 . 11 . 0 Paid to Benjn Munro Collector ...... 7 . 3 . 9 Paid to Elisha Allen Constable ...... 3 . 2 . 11 Paid to the widow Read 5/ to Wm Saben 9/6 ...... 0. 14. 6 Paid to Nathan Bliss 2/ to James Bullock 1/6 ...... 0 . 3 . 6 Paid to Coll Thos Carpenter 5/6 to Elisha Wilmarth 2/6 ...... 0 . 8 . 0 Pray to allow 125 wt of pork 3.6.6. and sheep wool E 3 ...... 6. 6. 6 For settling the Estate ...... 3 . 0 . 0 TIMOTHY4 FULLER 153

For Nine year Six month Service before my fathers decease ...... 100 . 0 . 0 t 180. 11 . 2 Prays allowance of necessaries ...... 30 . 0 . 0 Allowing Registering &c ...... 0 . 6 . 8 t 210. 17. 2

Dated at Rehoboth December ye 1st AD 1783 Bristol ss. December ye 2d 1783: Then the above named Timothy Fuller made oath to the truth of his before written Acct which I do allow of. Benjn Williams, J. Prob. Recorded per W. Baylies, Regr. Widow Elizabeth Petitions for her Dower Right To the Honorable Benjamin Williams Esqr, Judge of Probate of Wills for the County of Bristol: Elisabeth Fuller of Rehoboth in sd County of Bristol, widow of Timothy Fuller late of said Rehoboth, Deceased, who died Intestate, Humbley pray your Honour to appoint some suitable person and authorize them to set off my third or Right of Dower in said Deceased Real Estate & your Petitioner as in Duty bound shall ever pray. Rehoboth Deer ye 12, 1783. £fffa,tedt. r~ ;1'~ "lA,(1'1 : (J.. rpe-n.M- f71~tf;J f uLfL,v Bristol! ss. by Benjamin Williams Esqr. Judge of the Probate of Wills &c for the County of Bristol: To Messrs Thomas Carpenter, Ebenezer Peck, & Elihu Carpenter Esqr all sufficient freeholders in the County of Bristol, Greeting --- you are hereby appointed to appraise all the Real Estate whereof Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth in sd County Died devised of, then make a Division thereof by setting off to the sd Deceased Widow one full third part thereof if she is not otherways endowed before marriage. Let all parties concerned have notice when you proceed to make sd Division and make return hereof with your doings as soon as conveniantly may be. Given under my hand and seal of office this 16th Day of December AD 1783. 154 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

Bristol ss. March 31, 1784 Thomas Carpenter, Ebenezer Peck & Elihu Carpenter were sworn to the Faithfull performance of the trust reposed in them by the above warrant before Shubael Peck, Justice Peace. ( originals of above documents filed in "Timothy Fuller - 1782" envelope at Bristol County Registry of Probate)

Land Sold to Pay Debts In order to cancel the remaining debt against the estate, the Court of Common Pleas permitted the sale of enough land to bring in -L 98. The record of Timothy's request to the Court is to be found in Book 1783 - 1784, page 197, Case 52 for the December 1783 Court. Timothy Fuller Administrator of the Estate of Timothy Fuller Late of Rehoboth in our County of Bristol, deceased, Humbly Shews that the said deceased personal Estate is Insufficient to pay his Just debts by the sum off; 87.7.6 therefore prays that your Honour would Impower your Petitioner to make sale of the said deceased Real Estate to the amount off; 98.0.0, to Enable him to pay the same charges &c. The Court after a full hearing of said Petition granted the prayer thereof and Ordered that the said Timothy be and hereby is Impowered to make the Sale of the said deceased Real Estate to the amount of Ninety Eight Pounds where it will least prejudice the same for the payment of the said deceased Just debts, charges, &c. and the said Timothy to post notification thirty days preceeding the Sale and Account with the Judge of Probate of said County for the Proceeds thereof agreeable to Law. On March 31, 1784 two tracts amounting to 29 acres 55 rods were deeded to Jacob Shorey, "the highest bidder", by TimothyS Fuller, Administrator, for -L 93. By another deed under the same date, Jacob Shorey sold the same two tracts of land to TimothyS Fuller as an individual, for the same amount -L 93. By this means Timothy was enabled to satisfy his personal claim against his father's estate and by so doing acquired about one-third of the total land acreage reported in the inventory. However, with the estate now cleared of all claims, the widow's dower right and final division of the remaining real estate could now be made Deed - Timothy Fuller, Administrator, to Jacob Shorey Know all men by these presents that I, Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol in ye Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, Administrator to ye Estate of Timothy( 4) Fuller late of Rehoboth, Deed - by Virtue of an order of ye Court of Common Pleas for sd County to make sale of said deceased Real Estate to yt amount of Ninty Three pound to enable me to TIMOTHY4 FULLER 155 pay his Just Debts, in Consideration of ye sum of Ninty three pound in lawful! money to me in hand paid by Jacob Shorey of ye said Rehoboth, yeoman, do by these presents in my above sd capasity Sell, Convey & Confirm to him sd Jacob Shorey (he being ye highest Bidder) and to his heirs & assigns forever - Two peices of Land belonging to said Deceased Homestead Land. The first being ye North part of ye Land lying on ye Easterly side of the Highway being by Estimation Twenty Three Acres & 55 rods, Bounded as follows: The first corner is a large stone pitched in ye ground a little to ye North of the House on ye East side of ye Highway, then Northerly with said way fifty five rods to a stake for a corner, then E 4D North (h) 56 rods & bounding North with land formerly belonging to MT Ephm Hunt, Deed, then Southerly & Bounding East with Land belonging to Deacn Daniel Bliss to ye corner of said Lot to a stone pitched in ye ground for a corner. Thence westerly & Bounding South with sd Blisses Land runing with a stone Wall forty six rods to a Turn in sd stone Wall, then West (10 degs) 17½ rods to ye first corner. The second peice of Land lieth on ye Westerly side of ye Way on ye South side of ye Homestead Land and is by estimation Six Acres. The first corner is a red Oak Tree by the Highway being Liet Ezra Ides Northeast corner, Thence West 28 N 94 rods to a stake for a corner, Then N 12 E 10 rods 6 feet to a stake for a corner, Then E 28 S 98 rods to a stake in ye line of the Highway, Then Southerly with sd Way 10 rods 6 feet to ye first corner. To have & to hold ye said Bargained premises with all· the appurtenances & Privelidges free of all incumbrances to him ye said Jacob Shorey his heirs & assigns forever, and I ye said Timothy Fuller in my above sd Capacity do Covenant with sd Jacob that I am Lawfully seized of ye premises, have good and Lawfull right to Sell & Convey ye same as aforesd - and will Warrant Secure and defend the same from all persons whatsoever. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this thirty first Day of March in ye year 1784 and in ye Eighth year of ye Independance of ye United States of America. Signed Sealed & Timothy Fuller, Admr (S) Delivered in presence of Elihu Carpenter Shubael Peck Bristol ss. March 31st 1784 Personally appeared Timothy Fuller signer to this Recd September 15th 1785 Instrument acknowledges ye same to be his and Recorded by James Williams free Voluntary Act & Deed before me Register. Shubael Peck, Justice of Peace. (B.C. Deeds 64:289) The companion deed of same date from Jacob Shorey to Timothy Fuller is included in Chapter VI under Timothy5 Land Transactions. The deeds are not identical in much of their wording, but the descriptions obviously apply to the two pieces of land.

(h) This reads South on the Shorey to Timothy deed. North appears to be correct. 156 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

Appraisal & Division of Timothy's Real Estate The appraisal and division is a lengthy document dated March 31, 1784, the same date that the land transaction between TimothyS and Jacob Shorey took place. Timothy took his 29 acres out of the estate first and then the remaining acres were carefully divided and allotted. Some allowance seems to have been made for the location and nature of the various tracts. Mother Elizabeth was allotted 25 acres, which was four acres more than one-third of the total, but the west end of this piece was swamp. Mehitable, the youngest daughter, was allotted only 4 acres and 75 rods, but it was good land fronting on the highway. These several tracts were laid out by a surveyor, as the document specifying the divisions is the first good description of Timothy's entire estate. The boundaries are specified in rods and feet; the angles are given at each turn; the adjacent property is named for each boundary. A perfect closure, bringing the end of the last boundary to the starting point, can not be made in all instances. There may be errors in copying the original into the Registry book. It is, however, the best survey of the Fuller land up to this point. The 16½ foot rod was used in making this survey.

Bristol ss. We the subscribers being appointed by the Honble Benjamin Williams Esqr, Judge of Probate of Wills &c for the County of Bristol, to make an Apprizement and Division of all the Real Estate whereof Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth, in said County of Bristol, Deceased, Died siezed of: Met, and all parties concerned being first notifyed. We proceeded in the following manner (viz.) We apprized the whole of said Estate, being by Estimation Sixty three acres & sixty six rods, which we apprized with the buildings at Three Hundred & Thirty Pounds. --L 330 Imp. We proceeded and set off to sd Fullers Widow (viz) One third part of the Dwelling House (viz) the North west room, with one third of the Celler and one third of the Buttery, with the priveledge to pass in the great room to said Buttery, as likewise to pass to, & Bake in the Oven, & to pass out at the southern door, likewise one third of the Hay Barn (viz) the Scaffold & one half of the Stables with one third of the Floor, likewise one half of the Corn Crib, with priveledges of Door yard & to pass to and from the Hay Barn and Corn Crib and to the Well. We likewise set off to the said Widow Fuller Twenty four acres & one Hundred thirty & two rods, bounded as followeth (viz) beginning at the North corner of above sd Hay Barn, bearing North Eighty eight Degrees West, fifteen rods & two thirds to a corner of a stone wall, thence south twelve Degrees East to a corner of stone wall, thence North seventy four Degrees West, Eighty four rods to a TIMOTHY4 FULLER 157 stake & heap of. stones for a corner in the line of the land of John Munrow, thence North ten Degrees West Fifty three rods & half to a heap of stones & Beech tree for a corner, thence North seventy Degrees East Nineteen rods & six feet to large White Oak tree in the swamp for a turn, thence North Forty three Degrees East Eighteen rods to a maple stump for a corner, thence South Forty rods to a stake & heap of stones by the swamp for a corner, thence sou th Seventy six Degrees East about Seventy rods to a heap of stones for a corner, thence South Ten Degrees East about twenty three rods to the first corner. Provided never the less, a reserve made for a priveledge for the Heirs of Huldah Knap or their assigns to pass & repass to their share hereafter mentioned; As also a priveledge for the Widow Sarah Carpenter or her assigns to pass and repass to her share hereafter mentioned; as also a priveledge for Hannah Fuller to come to her Lot of Woodland hereafter mentioned. Said building, Lands & priviledges we valued at One Hundred forty one Pounds ...... t 141 Item. We proceeded to set off to the eldest son Timothy Fuller a double share as follows, two thirds of the dwelling House (viz) all belonging to sd House that was not mentioned as the above sd Widows thirds, likewise the remaining two thirds of the above sd Hay Barn, and one half the Corn Crib: Also we set off to him the sd Timothy Fuller (by estimation) Eight acres & Eighty three rods Beginning at the Barn bearing North Ten Degrees West about Fifteen rods and half to a heap of stones by the stone Wall, thence North Eighty Degrees East about sixteen rods to a heap of stones in the line of a highway, thence by sd Highway Southerly about Thirty four rods to a heap of stones for a corner. thence North Eighty four Degrees West about fourteen rods and half to a heap of stones Just by the corner of two Walls, thence south Thirteen Degrees West about Fourteen rods to a heap of stones for a corner, thence North seventy two Degrees West about fourteen Rods & half to a stake and heap of stones, thence North three Degrees East about fourteen Rods to a heap of stones for a corner, thence North seventy (four) Degrees West about five Rods & half to a corner of a stone Wall, being a corner of the above sd Widows thirds, thence North twelve Degrees West fifteen Rods to a corner of Walls for a corner, thence south Eighty Eight Degrees Ea~t about fifteen Rods two thirds to the first corner; which we apprised and set off to sd Timothy Fuller, at Fifty four Pounds ...... t 54 Item. We proceeded and set off to the Widow Elisabeth Bullock (by estimation) six Acres & Eighty Nine Rods, beginning at a heap of stones in the Northerly line of the above sd Widows Thirds, bearing North seventy six Degrees west about Fifty six Rods, bounding upon said Widow Fu11ers Thirds to a stake & heap of stones for a corner, thence North about Thirty seven Rods to a stake in the line of the Land of Jacob Bliss, thence by and bounded by sd Blisses Land, and in the line of the Land this Day set off to Hannah Fuller hereafter mentioned, thence southerly to the first corner: which we valued and set off at Twenty seven Pounds ...... -I: 27 Item. We proceeded to set off to Hannah Fuller Six Acres and Eighty Rods beginning at a heap of stones at the highway, thence by the highway south Nine 158 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

Degrees East twenty six Rods, to a heap of stones for a corner, thence South Eighty Degrees West by sd Timothy Fullers Northerly line about sixteen Rods to a heap of stones for a corner in a line of the above sd Widow Fullers Thirds, thence North ten Degrees West about seven Rods by sd Widows thirds to a heap of stones for a corner, thence North seventy six Degrees West seven Rods & half by sd Widows thirds to a heap of stones for a corner, thence North Nine Degrees East by Land set off to Widow Elisabeth Bullock and Land of Jacob Bliss about sixteen Rods to a heap of stones for a corner, thence North Eighty six Degrees East twenty eight Rods to the first corner. The above sd Tract (by Estimation) containing Five Acres. Also set off by estimation one Acre & Eighty Rods of Wood Land bounded as follows, beginning at a stake & heap of stones being a corner of sd Widows thirds bearing North by sd thirds about forty Rods, to a Maple stump for a corner, thence south forty Eight Degrees East about seven Rods & half to a stake for a corner, thence south about Thirty seven Rods to a heap of stones for a corner, thence North seventy six Degrees .West about six Rods to the first corner; both which Tracts we apprised & set off at twenty seven Pounds ...... -f, 27 Item. We proceeded and set off to the heirs of Huldah Knap (by Estimation) six Acres and Thirty eight Rods as follows, begining at a heap of stones, being a corner of the Land set off to the above said Timothy Fuller, bearing North seventy (four) Degrees West Twenty Eight Rods and half to a heap of stones for a corner in the line of sd Widow Fullers thirds, thence South about Twenty Nine Rods to a corner in the meadow in the line of the Land that was sold at Publick Ven due to Jacob Shorey, thence south sixty two Degrees East in sd Shoreys line about Thirty four Rods to a heap of stones, thence North Thirteen Degrees East, Twenty one Rods to a heap of stones for a corner in the line of the above sd Timothy Fuller, thence North seventy two Degrees West ten Rods by sd Fullers Land to a heap of stones for a corner, thence North three Degrees East fourteen Rods by sd Fullers Land to the first corner, which we apprised and set off at Twenty seven Pounds ...... -f, 27 Item. We proceeded and set off to the Widow Sarah Carpenter (by Estimation) six Acres Forty Nine Rods, Bounded as follows; begining at a heap of stones in the southerly line of the above sd Widow Fullers thirds bearing North seventy four Degrees West about sixty one Rods twelve feet to a heap of stones in the line of John Munrow, thence south ten Degrees East about seventeen Rods to a corner in the swamp, thence south Eighty one Degrees East ten Rods & half to a heap of stones for a corner, thence south twelve Degrees West one Rod ten feet to a heap of stones for a corner, thence south sixty two Degrees East Fifty three Rods & half to a corner in the meadow being in the line of the Land sold at Publick Vendue as above said, Thence North by Land set off to the Heirs of the above sd Huldah Knap twenty Nine Rods to the first corner: Which we apprised and set off at twenty seven Pounds ...... -f, 27 Item. We proceeded and set off to Mehetable, Wife of Benjamin Bullock, two Tracts of Land by Estimation containing Four Acres & seventy five Rods: The TIMOTHY4 FULLER 159 first tract bounded as follows, begining at the corner of Walls nigh the turn of the Road, bearing North Eighty four Degrees West by Land set off to the above sd Timothy Fuller, about fourteen Rods and one half to a heap of stones nigh the corner of the two walls for a corner, thence south thirteen Degrees West about twenty four Rods to a heap of stones for a corner, thence south thirteen Degrees West about twenty one Rods to a heap of stones for a corner, thence south sixty two Degrees East about five Rods & four feet to a heap of stones at the Road, thence Easterly by sd Road to the first corner. The second tract bounded as follows, it being on the East side of the Road begining at the corner of the Wall, bearing North Nine Degrees West by the Road, about twenty one Rods and a half to a stone for a corner, thence North Eighty Degrees East about seventeen Rods and a half to a corner of two Walls, thence south Twenty five Degrees West by Land of Daniel Bliss Twenty Eight Rods to the corner of the wall, thence North seventy Degrees West to the first corner, both which tracts we apprised & set off at Twenty seven Pounds ...... -I:: 27 Rehoboth March 31, AD. 1784. Thomas Carpenter Ebenr Peck 2d Elihu Carpenter Bristol ss. Taunton, Sept 7th 1784.

Then the afore written Division of the Estate of Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth deceased, was presented to the Honble George Leonard Esqr, Judge of Probate of Wills for the County of Bristol for allowance and was by him perused, allowed & ordered to be of Record. Recorded per Geo. Leonard. W Baylie Regr. (Original of above in Bristol County Registry of Probate, envelope marked Timothy Fuller 1782) N .B. There are several errors either in the original survey or in the copy book at the Registry, which make it impractical to plot the various tracts from the above descriptions. Reference should be made to later deeds where most of these tracts were described more accurately. The appraisal and division concluded the legal matters in connection with the settlement of Timothy's estate. LAND TRANSACTIONS OF TIMOTHY4 According to the inventory, the land owned by Timothy4 at the time of his death was "supposed to be" about 90 acres. This proved to be a good estimate, as the survey made shortly afterwards showed the correct total to be 92 acres 121 rods. I am unable to substantiate from official records just how and when Timothy accumulated this amount of land. The following parcels appear to be all that can be 4 TIMOTHY f"uLLE:R ESTATE:

TOTAL LAND OWNED of"\d DIVISIONS

MADE MARCH 31, 1764

Estate of Ephraim Hunt

Jacob Bliss land 56 U/ co

Elizabeth BullocK 2 3 acres 5 5 rods 6 acres 89 rods 28 Sold at Public Vendue I to Jacob Shorey Hannah Fu/ ler ex: - '='I and then to T1MOTHY~ LU -- I 5 acres March 31. 1784 .....J ----- .....J -:1 ::::, Widow Elizabeth Fuller I ,o LL --\ 46 'St 24acres 132 rods \ 21------==------~ >­ I -0 -- ~L~ - 0 Deacon Daniel Bliss land l­ " 5 o ------..114 <0/_.) Timothy Fuller ~ ----,__ _ - 8acres 83rods 1 I- Sarah Caq)enter 1 - - Gacres 49 rods I ----1.§..,__ D1v1s10N, A er-es --8..o-4.§ I I To Widow E/izobeth 24 132 .£ 0" "'\ heirs of Iv ,i-1 E.liz::abeth BullocK 6 89 ...., "' 1- rv/ I Huldah Knap l_ / ~ Hannah Fuller G Bo I 6 acres 38 rods , / (tJ Huldah Knap heirs 6 38 I f--i q;- ~ Sar-oh Carpel"lTer 6 49 I '§ -<'. Mehitabel Sul lock 4 75 0 I -~ o Tirnothy5 Fuller 8 83 ~ t; I ~ ~ ToTAt... D lVIO E.0 63 66 Sold to Jacob Shorey 29 55 0 .....co TOTAL E.STATE. 92 121 lieut Ezra Ide land TIMOTHY4 FULLER 161 found on record as purchased by Timothy. Each parcel is quoted in detail later in this section. Sept. 30, 1736 - from Jacob Ormsbee, 7 acres 48 rods in Wolf Plain. Feb. 27, 1737 /8 - from division of common lands, 120 rods in P.R. Mar. 19, 1738/9 - from David Newman, 5 acres 130 rods itt Wolf Plain. May 1757 - from James Redway, 1 acre, 53 rods in Wolf Plain. Feb. 24, 1766 - from the Proprietors, 5 acres 143 rods in Wolf Plain. The total purchased is 21 acres 14 rods. To this we can add the 15 acres from his father's estate in Palmer River, the 30 acres in Wolf Plain originally left to his brother Noah, and 2 acres 80 rods obtained by Hannah in the division of Sept. 13, 1736. This is an acquired total of 68 acres 94 rods. Timothy sold some of the above parcels and the following four sales are recorded: April 2, 1733 - 15 acres at Palmer River. Feb. 1, 1767 - 80 rods at Palmer River. Dec. 8, 1767 - 5 acres 143 rods at Wolf Plain. Feb. 8, 1770 - 7 acres 110 rods at Wolf Plain. The total sold is 29 acres 13 rods. Deducting this from the above amount acquired leaves a balance of 39 acres 81 rods which is somewhat less than half of the actual estate. On March 31, 1784, the entire real estate was disposed of as follows: To Widow Elizabeth (Thurber) Fuller ...... 24 acres 132 rods To son Timothy 5 Fuller ...... 8 acres 83 rods To daughter Elizabeth Bullock (widow) ...... 6 acres 89 rods To daughter Hannah Fuller ...... 6 acres 80 rods To daughter Huldah Knap (heirs) ...... 6 acres 38 rods To daughter Sarah Carpenter (widow) ...... 6 acres 49 rods To daughter Mehitable Bullock ...... 4 acres 75 rods Total divided ...... 63 acres 66 rods By sale to Jacob Shorey ...... 29 acres 55 rods TOT AL EST ATE ...... 92 acres 121 rods

Discrepancy in Land Records There are 53 acres 40 rods in the above total estate which we are unable to confirm by documentation. There are several possible reasons for this discrepancy. Recording of land transactions was apt to be put off, especially in the earlier years when legal procedures were not well organized. Sometimes the purchaser might depend on 162 TIMOTHY4 FULLER the seller to have the matter taken care of. The necessity of prompt recording did not impress everybody as being of sufficient importance to warrant taking a day off to go to Taunton. There are many old deeds recorded on the books, which show a date of recording several years after the sale was actually made, which appears to indicate that as long as the seller and the buyer were mutually satisfied, the legal details could be handled if and when convenient. It is possible that Timothy bought more acreage in Wolf Plain or Rocky Hill, from time to time, and never got around to completing or recording the deed papers. Land in the Rocky Hill area was plentiful, and certainly not in popular demand. When Timothy laid the stone wall boundaries there was little to guide him from point to point. It would be a matter of agreement with the abutting neighbors, if any, where the boundary wall was laid. A few of his acres may have been acquired simply by inaccuracy of boundary walls. Most of the discrepancy, however, could be accounted for by the difference in methods of surveying in the earlier years compared with the more accurate methods used in 1784. The earlier unit of linear measurement was called a 'rod' and also called a 'pole' or 'perch'. The commonly used length of the rod in early surveys was 18 feet, to which was added the "lengeth of an arme" to every second rod. This addition was the distance from finger tip to finger tip of the surveyor's outstretched arms. Depending on the size of the surveyor, approximately six feet could be added to every 36 feet of measuring, thus making the average "rod" 21 feet long instead of 18 feet. In 1726 the Rehoboth Proprietors voted that land measurements were to be made with the 18 feet pole plus the length of an arm every two rods. This legalized the matter for the first time. With the abundance of land available in those early years a few extra feet were unimportant, and the surveyor could be as liberal with his measurements as he chose. His objective was to make sure that the settler had all the acreage called for. Timothy's land purchases from 1736 to 1766 were doubtless surveyed by the 1726 rule of measurement. However, when his estate was surveyed prior to' division in 1784, the surveyor not only had better tools, but the rod was 16½ feet as it is today. A square rod on a 16½ foot base is 272 square feet, whereas on a 21 foot base it becomes 441 square feet. An acre laid out with a 21 foot rod is 441 /272 or 1.62 times as large as if measured by a 16½ foot rod. This uncertainty of the unit of measurement when all of TIMOTHY4 FULLER 163

Timothy's land was surveyed originally, could be the principal reason for most of the above discrepancy. Land Records The tracts of land which Timothy purchased are found in the Rehoboth Land Record books of the Proprietors, but they are not confirmed nor duplicated by deed records at the Bristol County Registry of Deeds. Each of the tracts that Timothy purchased was adjacent to his home lot and added a total of about twenty acres. The entries for these four tracts are quoted herewith as they appear in the Rehoboth Land Records. These purchases extend over a period of thirty years. Each of the tracts sold by Timothy, either singly or jointly with Hannah, are substantiated by deeds duly recorded at the Registry of Deeds. The boundary specifications are too indefinite to determine the location of these tracts, other than in a very general way. These deeds taken from the copy-books at the Registry of Deeds are quoted in complete detail as there is something to be learned from each. Timothy's Land Purchases 1. Seven acres and a quarter and eight rods of land be it more or less, that he purchased of Jacob Ormsbee being sd Ormsbees second lotment in the Division granted Anno Domini 1735. Lyes and adjoyning to his owne land at the south end of Wolf Plain: the first corner is a birch tree being ye easterly or northeasterly corner of his owne land a bound of Noah Mason land; thence East south East six rod to a stake and a heape of stone for a corner; thence East twenty two rods to the highway; thence crossing ye way ye same course four rods; thence stil running East twenty four rods to a white oake tree being the North West corner of a six acre lot laid out to Capt. John Butterworth; thence south in Butterworths line twenty four rods to a great rock for a corner; thence west ten rods to a white oake tree being ye North West corner of ye heirs of Josiah Carpenter land; thence South West by South with sd Carpenters land twenty four rods to ye highway; then bounding with said way runing Northerly twenty six rods then crossing ye way and bounding with his owne land to the first corner. Laid oute Sept ye 30, 1736 Daniel Carpenter, Surveyor (R.L.R. Book III, page 271) 2. Five and three quarters acres & 16 rods of land be it more or less that he purchased of David Newman being his lot in the Division granted Anno Domini 1738. Laid out to the said Timothy ffuller adjoyning to his owne land northerly from his house upon Wolf Plaine, the first corner is a heape of stones in his owne 164 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

North line of his land on the East side of the highway, thence runing with sd way north 7 Degrees west 16 rods to a heape of stones for a turn, thence North 5 Degrees East with the way 12 rods to a Black oake markt and a heape of stones for a corner, thence runing East fourty rods to ye pond called Wolf pond, then bounding with the pond til it come to ye heirs of Samll Butterworth land, then bounding with said heirs land and his owne Land til come to the first corner. Laid oute March ye 19th 1738/9 Daniel Carpenter, Surveyor (R.L.R. Book V, page 42) 3. Likewise one acre and one third part of an acre of Land be it more or less purchased of Capt. James Redaway being part of a lot in the Division granted in ye year 1735 on the sd Capt. James Redaways Rights lyeing on the East side of the Highway a Little southerly of sd ffullers home Lot yt Lyeth on the west side of the sd Highway going along by sd ffullers house toward Rockey hill and is a Tryangular peice of Land and bounds westerly said Highway and North Easterly on a Lott of Land of twenty acres formerly Laid out to Josiah Carpenter since Deceased and Bound South Easterly on Land that did Belong to the heirs of Abiah Carpenter and now Belongs to Abel Carpenter a minor. Laid oute in May 1757. by Daniel Carpenter, Surveyor James Redaway . (R.L.R. Book V, page 42) John Wilmarth Committee 4. At a meeting of the Proprietors on February 24, I 766, a report on lands sold at public vendue included: No. 6 - Deed to Timothy fuller of a piece of Common Land on Wolf Plain Joyning to sd fullers own Land - - 5 acres 143 rods 12s/ 6d t 3-10-6 (R.L.R. Book V, page 166) The total acreage of the above four parcels is 20 acres 60 rods. The price paid is not stated in the records, except the last case. Summary of Land Sold

Apr. 2, 1733 to Elish Bliss 15 acres 0 rods, t 80 Jan. 25, 1737 /8 to Ephraim Bliss 34 acres 0 rods t I 70 Mar. 14, 1738/9 to Elisha Bliss 12 acres 0 rods E 120 Dec. 8, 1767 to Shubael Peck 5 acres 143 rods t 3 - 16 Feb. 1, 1767 to T~os Carpenter 0 acres 80 rods t 3 Feb. 8, 1770 to Samuel Fuller 7 acres 110 rods t 11 • 11 Total sold 75 acres 13 rods t 388 - 7 After the first three transactions which took place just before and just after he was married, there is a gap of about thirty years before Timothy sold any more of his land. Each of these deeds is quoted on the following pages. TIMOTHY4 FULLER 165

RECORDED DEEDS OF TIMOTHY4 FULLER DEED - APRIL 2, 1733 - TIMOTHY4 FULLER TO ELISHA BLISS (15 acres inherited from his father sold for f; 80) To all people to whom these Presents shall come, Greeting: Know ye that I, Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth in ye County of Bristol in ye Province of ye Massachusetts Bay in New England, Laborer, for and in consideration of the sum of eighty pounds currant money of ye Province to me in hand before the ensealing hereof, well and truly paid by Elisha Bliss of Rehoboth aforesaid, yeoman, the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge and myself therewith fully satisfied and contented, and thereof and of every Part and Parcel thereof do exhonerate acquit and discharge the said Elisha Bliss, his Heirs, Executors and Administrators forever by these presents: Have given, granted, bargained, sold, aliened, conveyed and confirmed and by these Presents do freely fully and absolutely give, grant, bargain, sell, aliene, convey and confirm unto him the said Elisha Bliss his Heirs and Assigns forever a certain tract or parcell of upland situate in Rehoboth aforesaid and containing by estimation thirteen acres be it more or less lying on the Easterly side of Palmers River being butted and bounded as followeth: Beginning at a great white oak tree marked for the northeast corner by a highway, thence southerly to another white oak tree marked for a Ranger and so running the same course till it come to ye land belonging to ye heirs of Jonathan Bliss Deceast, then bounding southerly with said heirs land till it come to the meadow on ye River, then bounding with the meadow and swamp till it come to a highway, then bounding with said highway till it come to ye first corner. Likewise two acres of meadow be it more or less lying adjoyning on ye westerly side of the above bounded tract of upland bounded westerly on the aforesaid Palmers River southerly and northerly the meadow and swamp belonging to the heirs of Jonathan Bliss deceased, bounded easterly on ye afore bounded upland Lott ye said upland Iott was laid out and recorded to ye Saben and was purchased of ye Coopers by Samuel Fuller and ye meadow Lott was purchased by said Fuller of Capt Butterworth, John Wheaten, Jeremiah Wheaten and Joanna Man. To have and to hold the said granted Premises with all the appurtenances, priviledges and commodities to the same belonging or in any wise appertaining to him the said Elisha Bliss Heirs and Assigns forever, to his and their only proper use benefit and behoof forever. And I the said Timothy Fuller for myself, my Heirs, executors and Administrators do covenant promise and grant to and with Elisha Bliss Heirs and Assigns that at and before ensealing hereof I am the true sole and lawful owner of the above bargained Premises, and am lawfully seized and possessed of the same in my own'proper right as a good perfect and absolute Estate of Inheritance in Fee Simple: and have in myself good right, full power, and lawful authority to grant, bargain, sell, convey, confirm said bargained Premises in manner as abovesaid and that the said Elisha Bliss his Heirs and Assigns shall and may from time to time and at all times forever hereafter by 166 TIMOTHY4 FULLER force and virtue of these Presents lawfully peaceably and quietly have, hold, use, occupy, possess, and enjoy the said demised and bargained Premises with the appurtenances free and clear and freely and clearly acquitted, exonerated and discharged from all and all manner of former or other gifts, grants, bargains, sales, leases, mortgages, wills, entails, joyntures, dowries, judgements, executions, or incumbrances of what name or nature forever, that might in any measure or degree obstruct or make void this present Deed. Furthermore, I the said Timothy Fuller for myself, my Heirs, Executors, Administrators, do covenant and engage the above demised Premises to him the said Elisha Bliss his Heirs and Assigns against the lawful claims or demands of any person or persons whatsoever, forever to warrant secure and defend by this Presents. In witness whereof I the said Timothy Fuller hath hereunto set my hand and seal this second day of April Anno Domini 1733 and in the sixth year of the reign of our soverign Lord George ye second by the grace of God of Great Britain. Signed sealed and delivered Timothy Fuller (S) in the presence of us Daniel Carpenter John Hill Bristol ss: Rehoboth February ye 26th 1733/4 Personally appeared Timothy Fuller ye sd subscriber to the above written instrument and acknowledged the same to Received Sept 13, 1734 be his free voluntary act and deed. Recorded by Samll Howland Coram Thomas Bowen Register. Justice of Peace. (B. C. Deeds 22:214) (Timothy is called "Laborer" in the above deed. This was a term usual for young men of the period who had recently completed their apprenticeship.) DEED -JAN. 25, 1737/8 TIMOTHY4 & HANNAH FULLER TO EPHRAIM BLISS (34 acres inherited from her father sold to her brother fort 170) To all People to whom these Presents shall come Greeting: Know ye that we Timothy Fuller and Hannah his wife of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, which sd Hannah was Daughter to MI Jonathan Bliss late of Rehoboth Deceased, for and in Consideration of the sum of one Hundred and Seventy pounds Currant money of the Province aforesd to us in hand paid before the Ensealing hereof By our Brother Ephraim Bliss of Rehoboth aforesd yeoman, the Receipt whereof we do hereby acknowledge and ourselves fully satisfyed, Contented & paid & have given, granted, Bargained, Sold, aliened, Released, Conveyed and Confirmed and by these presents do freely clearly and absolutely Give, Grant, Bargain, sell, aliene, Release, Convey, and Confirm unto him the said Ephraim Bliss his heirs and assigns for Ever a Certain Tract or parcell of Land situate in Rehoboth TIMOTHY4 FULLER 167 aforesd Lying and Being on the Easterly side of the middle Branch of Palmers River adjoyning on the Southerly side of ye farm or homestead Lands of the sd Ephraim Bliss, Containing by Estimation Thirty Four acres be it more or less and was part of the part or share of Land Divided to her in the Real Estate of her sd Late Deceased father and is now Bounded Northerly in part the said Ephraim Bliss Farm aforesd & partly Northerly the Land of Rachel Bliss being one other Share, bounded Westerly the aforesd River, southerly in part ye meadow & upland of Thomas Carpenter and partly on a Ten acre Lott Laid out & Recorded to Ruth Ripley now the wife of Daniel Ormsbee, and partly ministerial Land, otherwise Bounded as appears in the Records of Lands in Rehoboth as it is Recorded to the aforesd Jonathan Bliss, Deed. To Have and to Hold the Before granted premises with the appurtenances and priveledges thereto Belonging unto him the said Ephraim Bliss his heirs, Executors, administrators and assigns forever to him and their own proper use, Benefit and Behoof forever. And we the said Timothy Fuller and Hannah his wife for us, our heirs, Executors & administrators do Covenant, promise and grant unto and with the said Ephraim Bliss his heirs and assigns forever that before and untill the Ensealing hereof we are the true sole proper and Lawful! owners and possessors of the before granted premises with the appurtenances, and have in our selves good Right, full power, and Lawful! authority to give, grant, Bargain, sell, aliene, Release, Convey and Confirm the same as aforesd and that free and clear and freely and clearly Executed, acquitted and Discharged from all former and other gifts, grants, Bargains, sales, Leases, mortgages, wills, Entails, Joyntures, Dowries, Thirds, Executions and Incumbrances whatsoever. And furthermore we the said Timothy Fuller and Hannah Fuller for us, our heirs, Executors and administrators do hereby Covenant promise and engage the before granted premises with the appurtenances unto him the said Ephraim Bliss, his heirs & assigns forever to warrant, secure & Defend against the Lawful! Claims or Demands of any person or persons whomsoever. In Witness Whereof we the said Timothy Fuller and Hannah Fuller have hereunto set our hand & seal this Twenty fifth Day of January Anno que Domini one Thousand Seven hundred and Thirty Seven or Eight and in the Eleventh year of his majesties Reign George the Second King of Great Britain &c. Timothy Fuller (S) Signed Sealed & Delivered In the presence of Hannah Fuller (S) David Carpenter Joseph Barbur Bristol ss: Rehoboth March ye 27, 1738 Personally, appeared Timothy Fuller & Hannah Fuller his wife ye subscribers to ye Recd Jany 30, 1739 within written instrument and acknowledged Recorded by S. Howland, Regr. ye same to be his own free act and deed. (B. C. Deeds 28: 113) before me Thomas Bowen, Just. Peace 168 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

DEED - MARCH 14, 1738/9 TIMOTHY4 & HANNAH FULLER TO ELISHA BLISS (12 acres inherited from her father sold to her brother Elisha fort 120.) To all people to Whom these Presents shall come Greeting: Know ye that I, Timothy fuller husbandman, and Hannah ye wife of ye sd Timothy fuller of Rehoboth in ye County of Bristoll in ye Province of ye Massachusetts Bay in New england for & in consideration of ye sum of One Hundred & twenty pounds current money of ye Province aforsd to be in hand paid before ye ensealing hereof by Elisha Bliss of Rehoboth aforsd yeoman, ye Receipt whereof we do hereby acknowledge and our selves fully satisfied, contented & paid, have Given, Granted, Bargained, Sold, Aliened, Released, Conveyed & Confirmed and By these Presents do freely clearly & absolutely Give, Grant, Bargain, Sell, Aliene, Release, Convey & Confirm unto him ye sd Elisha Bliss his heirs & assigns for ever all that twelve acres of Land be it more or less Situate in Rehoboth aforsd Lying at Palmers River adjoyning to Elisha Blisses home Lot that was divided to Hannah out of ye estate of her father Jonathan Bliss, Late of Rehoboth Deed & is Bounded southerly with ye sd Elisha Blisses Land, westerly with Land divided to ye widows thirds, Bounded Northerly in part with Land formerly Abraham Carpenters & in part with Land formerly Capt. Zonas Redways now belonging to ye Red Mr David Turner, Easterly according to ye original! Record of ye Land

To have and to hold ye before granted premises with ye appurtenances and privilidges thereto Belonging unto him ye sd Elisha Bliss his heirs, Exects, Adrninsts and assigns forever to his and their own proper use Benefit & Behoof for ever more & we ye sd Timothy fuller & Hannah fuller for our selves our heirs Exects and Adrninists do covenant. promise & grant unto & with ye sd Elisha Bliss his heirs & assigns for ever that before & untill ye ensealing hereof we are ye true, sole, proper & Lawfull owners & possessors of ye before granted premises with ye appurtenances & have in our selves good Right full power & Lawfull authority to give, grant, bargain, sell, aliene, release, convey & confirm ye same as aforsd. And that free & clear & freely & clearly Executed acquited & Discharged of & from all former & other gifts, grants, Bargains, Sales, Leases, mortgages, wills, Entails, Joynters, Dowries,- thirds, Executions and Incom­ brences whatsoever, and furthermore we ye sd Timothy fuller & Hannah his wife for us our heirs Exects & Administs do hereby Covenant promise & engage ye before Granted premises with ye Appurtenances unto him ye sd Elisha Bliss his heirs & assigns for ever to warrant secure & defend against ye Lawfull claims or Demands of any person or persons whatsoever. In Witness Whereof we ye sd Timothy fuller & Hannah fuller have hereunto set our hands & seals this fourteenth day of March Anno que Domini one Thousand TIMOTHY4 FULLER 169 seven hundred & thirty Eight or Nine and in ye twelfth year of his majesties Reign George ye Second King of England &c. Signed Sealed & Delivered in ye presence of Timothy fuller (S) John Kent Hannah fuller (S) William Blanding Bristoll ss. Rehoboth May ye 23th I 740 Personally appeared Mr Timothy fuller and Recd & Recorded Hannah fuller his wife ye subscribers to ye November ye 27, 1741 within written Instrument and acknowledg­ by Thos Throope, Junr ed ye same to be their own free act & deed. Recorder. Before me Thomas Bowen, Just. Peice (B. C. Deeds 30:323)

DEED - DECEMBER 8, 1767 TIMOTHY4 FULLER TO SHUBAEL PECK

( 5 acres 143 rods for f:; 3- I 6) Know all men by these Presents that I, Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth in ye County of Bristol in ye Province of Massachusetts Bay in New England yeoman: for and in consideration of three pounds sixteen shillings lawful money paid me by Shubael Peck of same town County and Province afforesaid yeoman: the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge do hereby give grant sell and convey to ye said Shubael Peck and his heirs and assignes for ever a certain tract or piece of land situate in Rehoboth lying near Wolf Plain and is a piece of land purchased of ye Proprietors committee and is by estimation five acres one hundred and forty three Rods. The first corner is a heap of stones on ye highway which leads from Timothy fullers toward John Kents: and is ye northerly boun

In witness whereof I ye sd Timothy fuller have set my hand and seal this eighth day of December Anno Domini 1767 and in ye eighth year of his Majesties reign George ye third King of Great Britain. Signed sealed and delivered Timothy fuller (S) in presence of us Robert BenPett Constant Cole Bristol ss: Rehoboth May 21, 1770 Personally appeared Timothy fuller signer of this instrument and acknowledged ye same Received Dec. 26, 1770 to be his free act and deed. and recorded per James Williams Before me William Bullock Register. Justice of Peace. (B. C. Deeds 53:363)

DEED - FEBRUARY 1, 1769 TIMOTHY4 FULLER TO THOMAS CARPENTER

(One half acre for b 3-0)

Know all men by these Presents that I, Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth in ye County of Bristol in ye province of ye Massachusetts Bay in New England yeoman, for and in consideration of ye sum of three pounds well and truly paid before ye Ensealing hereof well and truly paid by Thomas Carpenter 3d of ye same Town & County afforesd Gentleman, have Sold, Conveyed & Confirmed and do by these presents Sell & Convey unto him ye sd Thomas Carpenter his heirs and assigns for ever a certain peice of fresh meadow; situate in Rehoboth afforesd Lying o: ye West Branch of Palme rs River that runs from Butterworths falls so called and Lies adjoyning to meadow of Abel Carpenter deceased; the first Corner is a white oak stump by ye bank of sd River; thence Easterly by sd Abel Carpenters meadow to a stake & stones for a corner; thence southerly by meadow of Aron Fuller to a stake for a corner; thence Westerly by sd Aron Fullers meadow to a stake by the bank of ye River; thence northerly by sd River to ye first corner and sd me;id0w being by Estimation half an acre ye same more or less. To have and to hold sd granted & bargained premises with all there appurtenances free of all lncombrances what so Ever to him ye sd Thomas Carpenter his heirs and assigns for Ever: and I ye said Timothy Fuller for myself my heirs Execs Admrs do Covenant & promise by these presents to warrant secure & Defend ye above remised premises to him ye sd Thomas Carpenter his heirs Execs Adms and assigns for Ever against ye Lawfull Claims or Demands of person or persons what so Ever hereafter to Warrant Secure & Defend by these presents. In witness whereof I have here unto set my hand & seal this first day of february AD: one Thousand Seven hundred sixty and nine in ye ninth year of TIMOTHY4 FULLER 171 his majesties Reign George the Third King &c. Signed sealed & Delivered Timothy Fuller (S) in presence of us David Carpenter David Turner Bristoll ss: Rehoboth March 29th 1773 Personally appeared Timothy Fuller signer Recd April 4, 1777 & to this Instrument & acknowledged ye same Recorded per James Williams to be his free voluntary act & deed Register. Before me Wm Bullock, Justice of Peace (B. C. Deeds 57: 182)

DEED - FEB. 8, 1770 TIMOTHY4 FULLER TO SAMUEL FULLER (7 acres 110 rods to his oldest brother, Samuel, for t 11-11-7) To all people to whom these presents shall come Greeting: Know ye that I, Timothy Fuller of ye Town of Rehoboth in ye County of Bristol in ye Province of ye Massachusetts Bay in New England, yeoman, for & in consideration of Eleven pounds Eleven shillings & seven pence in Lawfull money to me in hand well & truly paid before ye Ensealing & Delivery of these presents by Samuel Fuller of ye Town & County afforesd, yeoman, the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge and myself there with fully Satisfied contented and paid have Given Granted Bargained & Sold unto him ye sd Samuel Fuller to be holden by him his heirs & assigns forever; a certain Tract or parcel] of woodland Situate in Rehoboth afforesd near ye Dwelling house of ye sd Timothy fuller & contains seven acres & half and Thirty square Rods be it more or less. Bounded as followeth viz: The first corner is a Stake & heap of stones and stands on ye Easterly side of ye highway that Leads by ye sd Timothy fullers Dwelling house; thence Runing north & Bounding with sd highway ten Rods to a stake pitched in ye Ground for a turn; thence north Twenty seven Degrees East Thirty Two Rods bounding with sd way to another stone pitched in ye Ground for a turn; thence north fifteen Degrees East with sd way Thirty Rods to a stake & heap of stones for a corner; thence South Thirty six Degrees East and bounding north East with Land Belonging to Abia Carpenters heirs forty six Rods to a heap of stones at ye Root of a Tree Blown up; thence South Sixty Degrees west and Bounding South Easterly with Land belonging to ye heirs of Abia Carpenter fifty five Rods to ye first corner. To have and to hold ye above Granted premises with all ye appurtenances priveledges & commodities to ye same belonging free of all Incumbrances what so Ever unto him ye sd Samuel fuller and his heirs & assigns for Ever. Furthermore I, ye sd Timothy fuller for myself my heirs Execs & Admrs do hereby covenant promise & Grant to & with him sd Samuel Fuller his heirs Execs & Admrs that at & before ye Ensealing & Delivery of these presents that I am Lawfully Seized and posessed of ye above Granted and Bargained premises in 172 TIMOTHY4 FULLER fee Simple & have in my Selfe Good Right full power and Lawful! to sell convey & confirm ye same in manner as above sd & that I will warrant Secure & Defend ye same unto him ye sd Samuel Fuller and his heirs & assigns for Ever against all ye Lawfull Claims or Demands of all persons what so Ever. In Witness Whereof I have here unto set my hand & seal this Eighth Day, of february AD: 1770 and in ye Tenth year of his majesties Reign George the Third King&c. Timothy Fuller (S) Signed Sealed & Delivered her in presence of Elisabeth Fuller Hector Monro + John Davis Junr mark Bristol ss: Rehoboth Sept 13th 1773 personally appeared Timothy Fuller signer Recd Sept 16th 1773 to this Instrument and acknoweldged ye & Recorded same to be his free voluntary act & Deed. per James Williams Regr Before me Wm Bullock Justice of peace. (B. C. Deeds 55:358) The woodlot sold to Samuel by the foregoing deed was in the inventory of his estate taken in 1789. He died intestate. In the division of Samuel's estate this woodlot was given to his son Daniel as part of his share, and also two acres westerly of his father's homestead. By deed of January 20, 1792, Daniel sold both pieces to his older brother Nathaniel for E 72 in silver. (Bristol County Deeds 74:470) Daniel at that time was a farmer living in Putney, Windham County, Vermont. Daniel was the youngest son of Samuel4 (SamueJ3, Samuel2, Roberti). Samuel4 died in Rehoboth December 5, 1788, and left a large estate and also a large family.

HANNAH BLISS AND HER FATHER'S ESTATE Hannah Bliss, born in Rehoboth January 7, 1714/ 5, was the daughter of Jonathan3 Bliss and his second wife Mary (French). Jonathan had a large family of seven sons (two of whom died in infancy), and five daughters. This Bliss family was a neighbor of Samue!3 Fuller's family of nine children in the Palmer river area. Four of the Fullers married Blisses in this fourth generation. Hannah's father· died October 16, 1719 in his fifty-fourth year, and was buried in the old Palmer River Cemetery on Lake street. This was the church-yard of the first Congregational Church in Rehoboth which was built two years later and organized November 29, 1721. TIMOTHY4 FULLER 173

One of the three acres of land set aside for the church and burying ground had been given by Jonathan in 1717. His was one of the very earliest burials there, and his gravestone still stands. Hannah was buried there in the nearby Fuller lot in 17 48. Jonathan Bliss had accumulated a large estate and was one of the wealthiest men of the town. The inventory filed October 30, 1719 had a total value off -b 1973, made up of personal property valued at -b 160; cattle, horses and other animals -b 183; housing, lands and sawmill -b 1630. His land holdings were over 500 acres, the larger part being located in the Palmer river area. He had -b 150 in Rehoboth Commonage Rights, and one share in the divisions of the Rehoboth North Purchase. He left no will, and his estate was divided as was then the custom, with one third to his widow Mary and two thirds to his children, with the eldest son, Jonathan4, getting two shares. The -b 150 in Commonage was divided into six shares of -b 25 each, five of which went to the five boys, and for unexplained reason the sixth -b 25 went to Hannah. She also received two lots of land, one of 12 acres and the other about 30 acres, both in the Palmer nvet area. In addition Hannah was given the following specific items from the personal inventory: one steer 3 yrs old, t 3-8; one heifer t 3 06 - 08 - 0 5 sheep t 2-10; 5 lbs pewter in six plates 16/03 03 - 06 - 03 a square table 20s; a brass kettle b 2-1 0; to a chest 11 s 04 - 01 - 0 a paire of stilliards 15; andirons, fire pan & tongs 208 01 - 15 - 0 2 dozen of spoons 6S; pr spoons 00-12-0 a chest & table 20s; to money; scales & weights 9s 01 - 09 - 0 one swine 13S; a small trunk 2s; one steel trap l4S; the other half of the tanned !ether 01 -02 - 6 to one swine 0 - 11 - 03 -l:,20 Received May 20, 1720 Henry Healy ) Nath! Bliss ) guardians to Mary, Hannah, Bethia, Rachel.

Hannah's share of her father's estate, from the inventory valuation, amounted to about -b 120, a sizeable amount in those early times. As she was less than five years old, the property was put into the guardianship of her uncle, Nathaniel Bliss, and Henry Healy, both of whom were also guardians for sisters Mary, Bethia and Rachel. As 174 Tll'v1OTHY4 FULLER there were no divisions of the common lands until April 3, 1735, Hannah's -b 25 in Commonage were not used to acquire more land until then. She had reached her majority at that time and apparently exercised the 'rights' herself. The record in the Proprietors' Meetings Book, page 115, shows that she was 30th in the drawing of lots and reads: No. 30 Hannah Bliss (yt was her father Jonathan Bliss) I: 25. In Rehoboth Land Records Book IV, page 76, is recorded the land she received at this time: Two acres and a half of Land be it more or less, being her second lotment in the Division granted 1735. Lying adjoining to ye land laid out to Samuell Fuller yt he gave to his son Noah (Deceased) on ye south end of Wolf Plaine, ye first corner is a white oake saplen & heape of stones being a corner of sd Fullers Land by ye highway, thence by sd way North 7 Degrees west 26 rods to a heape of stones for a corner, thence west 35 rods to a heape of stones in sd Fullers Land for a corner, thence SE b E 44 rods to ye first corner, bounding with sd Fullers Land. Laid oute & Recorded September ye 13, 1736. Danll Carpenter, Surveyor. Ezekiel Read ) Jabez Carpenter ) Comitte Imprimus: Three quarters of an acre of Land be it more or less, being her lot in the first Division granted & agreed upon by the Proprietors of Lands in Rehoboth April ye 3d 1735. Lyeing in Wachamoket Neck in the first Rainge being ye 30th lot in number in sd Division, being Two rods and seven feetts in width, Bounded Easterly a Highway, westerly on land of Caleb Lyon, Northerly on Land of Daniel Ide, Southerly on Land of Abraham Carpenter. Recorded November ye 14th 1735. The above are the only two divisions recorded in Hannah's name. She married Timothy4 Fuller on October 27, 1737. The following year, February 27, 1737/8, the Proprietors voted to make another small division of three acres per -b 100 in Commonage. Lots were drawn October 30, 1738 (Proprietors' Meetings Book, page 131 ), and apparently Hannah's allotment was made in Timothy's name as he drew No. 114. This drawing would amount to about three quarters of an acre. It probably was the piece he sold to Thomas Carpenter for -b 3 on February 1, 1769. By this time the common lands in Rehoboth available for division had greatly diminished, and there were no more divisions until 1792. From time to time, however, tracts of the remaining common lands were sold to individuals, and the money received was accumulated by TIMOTHY4 FULLER 175 the Proprietors. Hannah did not live to receive any of this money, but it was paid to her heirs as the following records show: At a meeting of the Proprietors held March 22,·· 1770, it was voted to "divide and pay out the money received for the s~le of common lands". A total of E 226-5-5 was paid out. Timothy fuller for Hannah - - b 0-10-5 On November 11, 1783 the Proprietors again voted to pay out money received for sale of common lands. Timothy had died the preceeding year so the entry (page 217) reads: Hannah Fuller ) as heirs of Hannah fuller, Deceased, Elizabeth Bullock ) received - - t 0-9-10 3/4 Hannahs and her sister Elizabeth each signed the book on receiving this money. Both are well written signatures. As their sister, Huldah Knap, had died several years previously, the E 25 in Commonage Rights of their grandfather now became the property of Hannah and Elizabeth. The then existing Commonage of all Proprietors was reviewed and listed April 18, 1784, on page 223 of the Proprietors' Meetings Book under three headings: Name of Proprietor in whose right Value Estate No. 26. Heirs of Hannah of their grandfather t 25-00-00 Fuller Jonathan Bliss At that time there were 154 Proprietors holding Rights which totalled E 10889. In 1643, when the Rights or Value of Estates were first established, the total was E 11,175, divided among 58 Proprietors, except E 750 was being held by the town. It was Hannah Fuller's and El:zabeth Bullock's great-great-grandfather, Timothy Blyss, who as one of the original Proprietors, was allotted the Bliss family Rights in 1643 in the amount of E 153. The final drawing of Rehoboth common lands was made April 10, 1792, for "land to be laid out on the Common". No. 99 Heirs of Hannah fuller ------50 rods No further divisions were recorded, and the last entry in the Proprietors' Meetings Book was made in 1841. Hannah's Commonage Rights were the only such Rights held in this direct lineage as Robertl Fuller's t 150 in Commonage went to his sons Jonathan and Benjamin, and to his grandson Samuel, who left his share (E 50) to his two oldest sons, SamueJ4 and Ebenezer. 176 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

BLISS FAMILY OF EARLY REHOBOTH

Thomasl Bliss was the emigrant ancestor of the Rehoboth family of that name. He was born in Daventry, England, about 1590. He married his first wife there on November 22, 1614. She was Dorothy Wheatley, daughter of John Wheatley, and she died in England. Thomas and Dorothy (Wheatley) Bliss had four children. Thomas married secondly, the widow Ide, mother of Nicholas2 Ide who was born in England about 1624. Thomasl Bliss came to New England about 1635 or 1636 with his second wife and his step-son Nicholas2 Ide. It seems probable that all four of his own children came at the same time. The family lived first in Braintree, and about 1639 moved to Weymouth. Their final move was to Seekonk (Rehoboth) in 1643, where they were among the first settlers. From Rehoboth records we are able to obtain our first documentation of Thomas and the members of his family. ThomasI held Commonage Rights of t 153 in Rehoboth and he participated in the earlier land divisions. He died in Rehoboth in 1649. His will was proved at Plymouth June 8, 1649. Bequests were specified to his son Jonathan; to his oldest daughter (Elizabeth) and her husband Thomas Willmore (Wilmarth); to his daughter Mary and her husband Nathaniel Hammon; to Nathaniel Ide (son of his step-son Nicholas Ide); and to Nicholas Ide. He concludes his bequests - "I give unto my four children my hides of leather ... to be equally divided among them". The complete will is recorded in Plymouth Colony Wills, Book 1, p. 67. The inventory of his estate totalled b 117-16-4 for personal property and live stock. His real estate was not included. Children of Thomasl Bliss I . Elizabeth b. England (c) 1615. d. (buried) Rehoboth, Feb. 167_6/7. m. Thomasl Wilmarth in Rehoboth (c) 1645. They had eight children. 2. Mary b. England. Baptised March 16, 1616/7. (i) Was 21 years old when her father came to New England. (i) m. (c) 1638, Nathaniell Hammon of Braintree. They had ten children. 3. Martha b. England. m. (c) I 646, Nicholas2 Ide in Rehoboth. They had ten children. Their oldest

(i) from "Harmon Genealogy" by Artemas C. Harmon, Washington, D.C., 1920. TIMOTHY4 FULLER 177

child was Nathaniel, born November 11, 164 7, and was about 1½ years old when his grandfather Bliss died and willed him a brown heifer and two calfs. 4. JONATHAN2 b. England April 2, 1626.(i) d. September 6, 1688, in Rehoboth. m. Miriam Hammon (Harmon), (c) 1648. They had ten children. Miriam d. May 21, 1706. Children of Jonathan2 and Miriam (Hammon) Bliss 1. Experiance b. February 5, 1649. d. ( ) 2. Rachall b. December 1, 1651. d. June 24, 1675. m. October 28, 1674, Thomas2 Mann, who was a "third rank" Swansea Baptist. Rachal and her infant child were killed by the Indians in Swansea, the day after King Philip's War started. 3. Jonathan b. March 4, I 653. d. young. 4. Mary b. September 31, 1655. d.( ) 5. Elizabeth b. January 29, 1657. d. July 1723. m. June 25, 1683, James Thurber, in Rehoboth. They had nine children. 6. Samuel b. June 24, 1660. d. August 28, 1720. m. April 15, 1685, Mary Kendrick of Rehoboth. They had nine children. 7. Martha b. April 1663. d. ( ) 8. JONATHAN3 b. September 17, 1666. d. October 16, 1719, (gravestone, Palmer River Cemetery) m.1 June 23, 1691, Miriam Carpenter. They had eight children. Miriam died May 21, 1706. m.2 April 10, 1711, Mary French, daughter of John and Hannah (Palmer) French. They had four children. Mary (French) Bliss died December I 0, 1754. 9. Dorothy b. January 27, 1668. d. October 28, 1694. m. June 20, 1690, James Carpenter. Three children. 10. Bethia b. August 1671. d. February 27, 1702/3. m. April 15, 1695, Daniel Carpenter. Two children. (Above birth dates from Rehoboth Vital Records, Book 1, p. 5. Marriages and deaths are from book 1 and book 2) 178 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

Children of Jonathan3 and Miriam (Carpenter) Bliss 1. Jonathan b. June 5, 1692. d. May 3, 1770 (gravestone) m. March 17, 1739/40, Sarah Thresher, of Rehoboth. They had eight children. 2. Jacob b. March 21, 1693/4. d. September 5, 1720. 3. Ephriam b. December 28, 1695. d. August 4, 1696. 4. Elisha b. October 4, 1697. d. March 15, 1793. m. April 7, 1726, Margaret Newman. They had 9 children. 5. Ephraim b. August 15, 1699. d. January 6, 1778. m. December 5, 1723, Rachal Carpenter. They had twelve children. 6. Daniell b. January 21, 1701/2. d. August 25, 1782. m. January 26, 1725/6, DOROTHY FULLER, daughter of Samuel3 and Dorothy (Wilmarth) Fuller. They had eight children. 7. Noah b. May 18, 1704. d. September 20, 1704. 8. Miriam b. August 9, 1705. d. (before 1752) m. February 20, 1728/9, Enoch Hunt. They had 3 children. Children of Jonathan3 and Mary (French) Bliss 9. Mary b. November 23, 1712. d. ml July 1, 1731, Joseph Peck. They had 3 children. m2 January 27, 1739/40, MOSES4 FULLER. They had five children. IO. HANNAH b. January 7, 1714/5. d. January 25, 1748/9. m. October 27, 1737, TIMOTHY4 FULLER. They had four children. Cf: Fuller Genealogy. I 1. Bethia b. May 10, 1716. d. April 16, 1765. ml Read. m2 September I, 1747, AARON4 FULLER (Twin of Moses). They had seven children. 12. Rachel b. August 10, 1719. d. June 3, 1745. m. October 2, 1740, as his first wife, AARON4 FULLER. Tliey had two children. (Above birth dates from Rehoboth Vital Records, Book 1, p. 86. Marriages and deaths are from book 2 and book 3) Timothy, Aaron, Moses, and Dorothy were children of SamueJ3 and Dorothy (Wilmarth) Fuller. TIMOTHY4 FULLER 179

Gravestone of Hannah (Bliss) Fuller at Palmer River Cemetery, Lake St., Rehoboth. The stone is granite fieldstone about 3" thick, smoothed on front for inscription, but left natural on back. It measures about 17'' wide by 18" above ground. The smoothed front measures 14" by 15 ½". A "rubbing" of the face of the stone was used to make a full-size restoration drawing, from which this photograph was taken. The stone is in fair condition. Note the error in spelling Fuller in the second line. Perhaps the stone cutter put in the third "L" to fill in the line. The original workmanship on this stone was excellent, but the lettering and design have deteriorated somewhat. 180 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

NOTES ON THE THURBER FAMILY & GENEALOGY The name is of Icelandic origin and was established in England by the Norsemen. It is a combining name of THOR, Scandinavian God of war, thunder and agriculture, and BEAR, the sacred bear by which Thor was accompanied. Johnl Thurber, born in England, date unknown, was the emigrant ancestor. He was married in i 648 or 1649 to Pricilla ( ). They had eight children most of whom, if not all, were born in England. Johnl died in Swansea, Mass., and was buried there in 1706. His will indicates that he was a carpenter by trade as he left "all my carpentering tools and my wearing apparel" to his son James. His will is dated March 21, 1703/4, but was disallowed by Judge Nathaniel Byfield of Bristol County on July 3, 1706, as it did not mention his wife Pricilla with whom he was married more than 57 years. An inventory of his estate was taken by his wife Pricilla of Swansea and dated August 8, 1706. The total value was b 41-13-00 in personal property. His real estate was not included. The detailed inventory is recorded at Bristol County Registry of Probate at Taunton, Book 2, page I 05. John's reason for coming to New England was doubtless due to his being a Baptist. After the Restoration in 1660, all religious sects in England, except the established church, suffered persecution. The Baptists had less freedom than the Presbyterians and Independents. In 1665, the five mile act was proclaimed forbidding leaders from living within five miles of where their churches were established. Many Baptists and others moved to Holland or to New England at that time. Among the emigrants of that period was Rev. John Myles who came to Massachusetts with part of his Baptist congregation of Swansea, Wales. At a Rehoboth town meeting held March 23, 1665/6, it was "voted and agreed upon by the towne that Mr. Myles is received an inhabitant amongst us ... " (RTM 1: 166) It is not known whether John Thurber and his family came over on the ship with Rev. Myles. There is no record that the Thurbers were living then in Rehoboth. However, it is probable that they were living in the area when Swansea became a separate township in 1667, and were members of Rev. Myles newly organized Baptist church in that town. John Thurber~ name first appears in the record of the Swansea town meeting held February 22, 1669. He and his son John Jr., are listed among 54 inhabitants who agreed to the conditions set forth concerning the settlement of the town. At the town meeting held February 7, 1670/ 1, the residents were divided into three ranks for their proportional division of land. Those in the first rank were to TIMOTHY4 FULLER 181 have three acres, those of second rank two acres, and those of the third rank to have one acre. The inhabitants were placed in their respective rank by the selectmen. John Thurber was listed in the second rank. In Major William Bradford's quit claim deed to the town of Swansea, dated July 23, 1689, John Therber is included in the list of second rank proprietors and his son John Jr., as third rank. His son James had moved from Swansea and was a proprietor in Rehoboth in 1689.

... THURBER GENEALOGY ... The children of John 1 and Pricilla Thurber are listed by Mr. A. E. Thurber, Jr., in his Thurber Genealogy (1952) as follows. He believes that the first four and probably the fifth (James) were born in England, and the last three in Swansea. If Charity was born in 1663 as noted, and the last two children before 1666, then this area was at that time part of Rehoboth. We can find no record of their births either in Rehoboth or Swansea vital records. 1. Children of JOHNl and Pricilla Thurber, who were married in England in 1648 or 1649. i. John b. 1650 ii. Mary b. 1652 iii. Thomas b. 1656 iv. Elizabeth b. -- v. JAMES b. Aug. 26, 1660. vi. Charity b. 1663 vii. Edward b. - viii. David b. - 2. Children of JAMES2 and Elizabeth (Bliss) Thurber, who were married in Rehoboth June 25, 1683. (RVR 1 :49) i. James b.Mar.3,1684/5 (RVRl:58) ii. John b. Oct. 31, 1686 iii. Rachel b. Mar. 1, 1688/9 iv. Elizabeth b. Dec. 1, 1690 v. Bethia b.Mar.15,1692/3 vi. JONATHAN b. Mar. 26, 1695 (bap. July 28, 1695) vii. Prizzall b. Feb. 3, 1697/8 viii. Samuel b. Aug. 26, 1700 ix. Edward b. Apr. 29, 1702 182 TIMOTHY4 FULLER

Elizabeth Bliss was daughter of Jonathan2 Bliss and was born in Rehoboth January 29, 1657. She died in July 1723. James2 Thurber married secondly, Elizabeth (Toogood) Bozworth, daughter of Nathaniel Toogood of Swansea, and widow of John Bozworth. She was born July 25, 1682. James2 Thurber died in Rehoboth on March 26, 1736. (RVR 2:244)

3. Children of JONATHAN3 and Mehittabell (Bullock) Thurber, who were married in Rehoboth March 11, 1723/4 by Rev. David Turner. (R VR 2: 138) i. Elizabeth b. Dec. 16, 1723 (RVR 2:66) ii. Mehittabell b. Apr. 1, 1725 iii. Mary b. Jan. 11, 1726/7 iv. Jonathan b. Jan. 30, 1728/9 v. Patience b. Apr. 1, 1731 vi. Experiance b. Jan. 26, 1732/3 vii. David b. Oct. 16, 1734 viii. Amos b. July 22, 1737 ix. Barnabas b. July 24, 1739 X. Dorcus b.July20, 1741 xi. Hannah b.Feb. 5, 1744 Elizabeth4 Thurber married Timothy4 Fuller in Rehoboth on July 2, 1749, as his second wife. (RVR 2:262) The direct lineage to the Fuller family is: 1. John Thurber and Pricilla 2. James Thurber and Elizabeth (Bliss) 3. Jonathan Thurber and Mehittabell (Bullock) 4. Elizabeth Thurber married Timothy4 Fuller TIMOTHY4 FULLER 183

Elizabeth4 Thurber was first cousin once removed to Hannah4 Bliss, their common ancestor being Jonathan2 and Miriam (Hammon) Bliss, as shown below:

Jonathan2 and Miriam Bliss

Jonathan3 Bliss Elizabeth3 Bliss Mary (French) James2 Thurber

Hannah4 Bliss Jonathan3 Thurber Mehittabell (Bullock)

Elizabeth4 Thurber

Timothy4 Fuller CHAPTER VI

TIMOTHY5 FULLER 1751 - 1809

Timothy5 was born in Rehoboth on November 21, 1751. At the time there were four girls in the family. His half-sisters, Elizabeth, Hannah, and Huldah, were 12, 10, and 8 years old respectively. His full sister, Sarah, was 1½ years old. Yet to arrive was another sister, Mehitabel, in 1755, and finally, when Timothy was nine years old, a brother, Amos, in 1760. These seven children grew up in the little house on Rocky Hill. Their nearest neighbors were the Bullocks, whose children were of comparable ages to the Fuller children. The district school for the children of these two families was about a mile and a half north on the present Homestead Avenue. A long walk to and from school was not considered a hardship in those days, as there was little if any alternative. The year's schooling consisted of two terms of 14 weeks each. The nearest church was even farther away. We can find no record to tell us which church young Timothy and his sisters attended. The family may have been divided in their church allegiance. Mother Hannah (Bliss) had been a Congregationalist, and would have wanted her three daughters to attend Rev. Rogerson's Congregational church in the village. Timothy4 's second marriage to Elizabeth Thurber brought a devout Baptist into his family. They had been married by Elder Richard Rounds, who was the leader of the Second Baptist Church of Rehoboth. The Thurbers were just as ardent Baptists as the Blisses were Congregationalists. Mother Elizabeth undoubtedly held fast to her Baptist background. Very likely she would not have completely converted her husband, nor the oldest girls, but she probably insisted that her own children, starting with Sarah and Timothy, attend the nearest Baptist church. This appears to have been the beginning of our Baptist forebears, whose religion was continued by the next five generations.

184 TIMOTHY5 FULLER 185

Young Timothy worked on the farm with his father, and remained on the farm the rest of his lifetime. For many years he showed no intention of getting married. He apparently was comfortable and content with his mother and sisters managing the household. During the Revolutionary War Timothy was of suitable age for military duty. He was nearly 24 when George Washington took command of the Continental Army at Cambridge on July 3, 1775. Timothy's military experience, however, consisted only of several short enlistments. These are listed in Volume 6 of Massachusetts Soldiers and Sailors of the Revolutionary War. His longest service seems to have been six weeks with Capt. Nathaniel Carpenter's company stationed at Brookline, Mass., from which he was dismissed January 15, 177 6. Later that year he was with Capt. Carpenter's company for sixteen days' service, during which time they marched to Bristol, R.I., on an alarm of December 8, 1776. There appears to have been no further service until August 2, 1780, when he had seven days' service with Capt. Simeon Cole's company when it responded to an alarm at Tiverton, R.I. In the meantime, younger brother Amos, scarcely 17 years old, enlisted August 27, 1777 for a three-year term in the Continental Army. The town had voted on April 14, 1777 to pay a bounty of E 20 to those enlisting in the Continental Army for three years or duration of the war. His enlistment papers describe Amos as being 5 feet 10 inches in stature. Although the details are not given, the record shows his death April 1, 1778. He was the second of Timothy4 's sons to have died. The remaining son, TimothyS held the continuity of this lineage in abeyance for another twenty years, until his son Timothy6 was born in 1799. Rehoboth had a large quota of provisions and war supplies to furnish the military. Timothy raised sheep and cattle as his contribution to the war effort. As his father became older, and with Amos gone, TimothyS necessarily had to carry most of the load himself. At the time of his father's death in May 1782, neither Timothy nor his half-sister Hannah had married. Both lived at home with their mother. Hannah may have been a school teacher in one of the Rehoboth district schools. Each of the four other sisters had married and left home some years before their father's death. In many respects Timothy's responsibilities should have been lessened, but he was faced with the widespread problems of money to pay his debts and taxes. 186 TIMOTHY5 FULLER

At the victorious conclusion of the American Revolution in 1781, a brief period of apparent prosperity was followed by a serious economic crisis. Massachusetts had borne a large part of the war and the costs were proportionally high. Taxes levied on the citizens grew larger each year. Due to the shortage of sound currency many were deeply in debt, as well as being unable to pay their increasing taxes.

Shays' Rebellion This rebellion was one outcome of the unsatisfactory economic and political conditions. About 35 Rehoboth men, including Timothy5 , were active in this movement to save their farms and property. The farmers in the outer counties west of Boston were especially hard hit. Many had been brought before the Court of Common Pleas for non-payment of debt, and had had judgments found against them, with court costs added to their original debts. They watched helplessly while the constable sold their property and live stock, which was bad enough, but the loss of their land was disastrous. The law was such that if the sale of property did not satisfy their debt, the creditor could force them into debtors' prison, and in some towns the prisons were filled. In the spring of 1786, town meetings across the state adopted petitions for relief, which were sent to the General Court in Boston. The Court adjourned on July 8 without taking action on these petitions. Bristol County had presented a measure for the adoption of paper money, which farmers and tradesmen thought would solve their troubles, but the measure did not pass. County conventions were held during the summer months, and more petitions to the General Court were drawn up, but before the Legislature met for the fall session, the people took matters into their own hands. On August 29, 1786, 1500 farmers of Northampton gathered before the court house and prevented the judges from opening the court. This was one of many such gatherings throughout western Massachusetts, each with the same result: the Court of Common Pleas was not able to go into session. By this means the farmers stopped the seizure of their property temporarily, hoping for time to get results from the General Court. The Governor called out the militia to force the opening of the courts, and to disperse the mobs. However, most of the men in the militia were in the same financial circumstances as the farmers and were not sympathetic to their orders, so the courts remained closed. TIMOTHY5 FULLER 187

In Taunton, Judge Cobb was also Commander of the Bristol County militia. He called out his command for duty, as well as the Plymouth County militia. With this assistance he occupied gis court the day before the farmers arrived. The next day was opening day for the court and several hundred men, some armed, appeared before the Taunton Court House but made no demonstration. Judge Cobb conferred with his colleagues, and decided that if the people.didn't want the Court to be held he would comply, so the Court adjourned. The mob hung around for a while and then dispersed. Daniel Shays of Pelham, Massachusetts, a Captain in the Continental Army, entered the movement late in September 1786. He decided to go to Springfield, where court was to be opened September 26th. A mob had already gathered around the Court House, and recognizing Shays in his Continental uniform persuaded him to take command. The militia had been called and arrived as the mob was gathering, but many of the militia defected to join the Shays' troops. The judges entered the court, but decided to adjourn without acting on any case. The General Court in Boston also convened on September 26 for their fall session. Some concessions were passed, including easier payments of specie taxes previous to 1784. Back taxes could be paid in goods or produce. Some adjustments were made to the debtors' law. However, these and other measures did not appease the farmers, and when the acts were put into effect at the end of November, the farmers across the state were even more aroused by the failure of the Legislature to comprehend their troubles. In January of the following year the state was divided into two armed factions, as the militia, under orders from the Governor, was now 4,000 strong. In the western counties the problem was no longer a matter of preventing the courts from opening, but one of defending themselves against a force superior in number and arms. The militia marched westward across the state, forcing Shays' troops to break up and scatter. Many were made prisoners, and Shays and some of his leaders fled into Vermont. The General Court convened on January 31, 17 8 7. They approved the methods taken by the Governor to subdue the turbulence, and declared that a rebellion existed in the Commonwealth. A bill granting amnesty to the less guilty of the rebels was passed. Pardon was granted only after they took oath of allegiance, after which applicants must prove themselves by three years of good behavior, during which period they were not to serve as jurors, teach school, 188 TIMOTHY5 FULLER hold any public office, sell liquor, nor vote for any civil or military officers. In other words, they were disenfranchised for three years. In many towns practically the whole voting population was unable to participate in civil affairs. At this session, Rehoboth, moving contrary to the rest of Bristol County, demanded recall of state troops and pardon for everybody. Early in March 1787, the Rehoboth men gave up their arms and took the oath of allegiance to the Commonwealth. The General Court adjourned March 10th, and again left no constructive accomplishment, as most of the measures passed were punitive. It was time for elections. A new Governor, John Hancock, whom the farmers believed would understand their problems, was elected. A large majority of new legislators were also elected. The summer session of the new General Court failed to live up to the hopes of the people, but the fall session passed an act for the relief of debtors, and the disenfranchisement act was modified. A paper money bill failed to pass. On September 12th all troops were dismissed, and a full pardon was granted to those of the condemned who had remained, like gentlemen, in jails. Causes of the rebellion were finally recognized by this Court. All of the leaders, including Capt. Shays, were fully pardoned by the General Court on June 25, 1788. The activity of the rebellion was over. It was a rebellion practically without bloodshed.

The Forming of a New Nation During the summer of 1787, a Constitutional Convention met in Philadelphia to make extensive revisions to the Articles of Confedera­ tion, which had held the thirteen colonies together for over ten years. George Washington was president of the revision committee. After four months of labor, the revised constitution was submitted to the Congress and accepted on September 28, 1787. Massachusetts ratified the new Constitution on February 7, 1788. The day agreed upon to commence operation of the Federal Government under the new Constitution was March 4, 1789. George Washington was inaugurated President of the United States of America on April 30, 1789 in the city of New York. Alexander Hamilton was appointed the first Secretary of the Treasury. State debts were assumed by the Federal Government, and Hamilton's funding of the debt brought relief to Massachusetts TIMOTHY5 FULLER 189 farmers, and rrtade possible a reduction in taxes. It did not, however, relieve the people of their accumulated personal debts. Farmers, like Timothy, could not seem to earn enough to discharge their old debts and also pay current expenses. When Timothy died in 1809 his estate was insolvent, just as his father's had been.

Federal Census of 1790 The new government recognized the desirability of a complete census of the population, in order to apportion state representation as well as taxes. The first census was taken in 1790. The complete Rehoboth census is quoted in Bowen's Early Rehoboth Vol. IV, and on page 119, the Timothy Fuller household is listed as follows: I - Free white male of 16 years and upward 1 - Free white male under 16 years 2 - Free white females The "free white male" over 16 years old was, of course, Timothy, who at that time was forty years old. The boy under 16 appears on the next Federal Census in 1800 as being between 10 and 16, which makes him under 6 years old in 1790. He may have been a nephew, but there is no actual clue as to his identity. The two white females were Timothy's mother and his unmarried half-sister, Hannah. In 1790 there were 837 families, and a total of over 4600 inhabitants, in Rehoboth.

Timothy's Marriage Possibly because economic and political conditions seemed to be more favorable or whatever may have been his reason, Timothy, at age 40, decided to marry. May ye 12th 1791 Timothy Fuller & Malley Medbury both of Rehoboth, by Jacob Hix, Elder of a Baptist Church in Rehoboth. Entered pr Philip Walker, Town Clerk Molly, whose given name was actually Mary, was the daughter of Ebenezer Medbury and his wife Mary (Ide). The Medburys lived on Rocky Hill about a mile west of the Fullers. Molly was born March 31, 17 63, and thus was just over 28 years old when she married Timothy. She was a member of the Baptist Church and Timothy very probably attended the same one. 190 TIMOTHY5 FULLER

TimothyS and Mary (Molly) Medbury were third cousins, their common ancestor being great-great-grandfather Nicholas2 Ide. The descent from Nicholas is as follows:

Nicholas Ide Martha Bliss

Mary Ide Timothy Ide Samuel Fuller Elizabeth Cooper

Samuel Fuller Josiah Ide Dorothy Wilmarth Mary Walker

Timothy Fuller Mary Ide Elizabeth Thurber Ebenezer Medbury

Timothy Fuller m. Mary Medbury

Mary was usually called Molly, even on some legal documents, throughout her lifetime. Her mother died two weeks after Molly was born. Her father remarried, and Molly and her four brothers were raised by their step-mother Hannah (Walker).

Children of Timothy5 and Molly All four of their children were born in Rehoboth. Like his father, Timothy had to wait for a son, but after three daughters, the fourth and last child was a boy.

Huldah b. Sept. 25, I 792 Polly b. April 19, 1795 Hannah b. Dec. 15, 1796 TIMOTHY6 b. Nov. 15, 1799 TIMOTHY 5 FULLER 191

Federal Census of 1800 This census was taken in more detail than the first one in 1790, but in both cases, confirmation of the inhabitants of Timothy's household is clear. The 1800 census reported as follows: I Male under IO years. (Timothy6, age one) 1 Male 10 to 16 years. (unknown at this time) 0 Male 16 to 26 years. 0 Male 26 to 45 years. I Male over 45 years. (Timothy5, age 49) 3 Females under IO years. (Huldah, 8; Polly, 5; Hannah, 4) 0 Females l O to 16 years. 0 Females 16 to 26 years. I Females 26 to 45 years. (wife Molly, age 37) 2 Females over 45 years. (Mother, 77; sister Hannah, 59) Timothy's Mother Dies The exact date of widow Elizabeth (Thurber) Fuller's death is not recorded in the Rehoboth vital records. There is no gravestone now extant, marking her grave in either the old Palmer River cemetery or the Village cemetery. From the legal proceedings, which doubtless commenced within a week or two of her death, we can conclude that she died in May, 1801. She would have been in her 78th year. She was survived by three of her own children: Sarah, Timothy, and Mehitable, and two of her step-daughters: Elizabeth and Hannah. Her estate was appraised at $532.00 and was administered by her son Timothy. There was no inventory of personal property, and a committee was chosen to divide her real estate. The original documents are a: Bristol County Registry of Probate, in an envelope marked "Elizabeth Fuller 1801". ESTATE OF ELIZABETH (THURBER) FULLER Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Bristol ss. To Messrs Jeremiah Wheeler, Junr, Isaiah Allen, and David Perry, Junr Esqr, all of Rehoboth and Freeholders in said County: Greeting: You are hereby appointed a Committee (being first sworn) to make a just and true appraisment of all that part of the Real Estate of Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth in said County, yeoman, deceased, intestate (which was formerly set off to his widow Elizabeth Fuller as her Dower in said Real Estate) take careful View of same and see whether it will admit of a Division to and among the children and Heirs of said deceased without Prejudice to or spoiling 192 TIMOTHY5 FULLER

the whole: ifso, divide it to and among said Heirs and set out the same by Metes and Bounds. Give Notice of the Time of your doing said Business to all Parties concerned, that they may be present if they see Cause: and when you have effected the same, make Return of your Doings, together with this Warrant, into the Registry of the Court of Probate in and for this County. Given under my Hand and Seal of Office this second day of June Anno Domini 1801. Seth Padelford, Judge of Probate. Bristol ss. June 2, A.D. 1801 Then the within named David Perry, Junr Esqr was duly sworn to the trust reposed in him by the within order Before Seth Padelford, J. Prob. Bristol ss. June 18, 1801 Then the within named Jeremiah Wheeler, Junr and Isaiah Allen was duly sworn to the trust reposed in them by the within warrant. Before me, David Perry, J unr. Justice Peace. Timothy is Appointed Administrator Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth, yeoman, is appointed Administrator of the estate of his mother Elizabeth Fuller late of Rehoboth, widow, deceased ... to make an inventory ... before September second next and render an account at or before June 2, 1802, etc. June 2, 1801. Seth Padelford Esqr, Judge of Probate. (The complete appointment will be found in Book 149 page 382 at Bristol County Registry of Probate.) The Committee surveyed and appraised the real estate and made the division as instructed by the Court. The following document was written in longhand and submitted to the Judge. ·

APPRAISAL & DIVISION OF ELIZABETH'S DOWRY THIRD - June 21, 1801 Persuant to a warrant to us Directed by the Hon. Seth Padelford Esqr Judge of Probate of Wills &c for the County of Bristol - We the Subscribers having first been sworn as the said Warrant directs have appraised upon oath all the Real Estate of Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth in said County, Deceased, which was formerly set off to Elisabeth Fuller as her Dower in said Real Estate, amounting in the whole to the sum of five hundred and thirty two Dollars - $532:00. Having done this, we set off to the Children and heirs of the said Deceased as followeth (viz)--- To Timothy Fuller son of the Deceased three shairs, two on his own right being the oldest son, and one being the Right which he Pmchased of Sarah Carpenter one of deceased daughters & heirs bounded as followeth, the first corner is a heap of stones being a corner of Hannah Fullers shair, then North Eighty Eight Degrees west Eight Rods to a stake for a corner, then North ten Degrees East two Rods to a Rock with stones on it for a corner, then west one TIMOTHY5 FULLER 193

Degree North twelve Rods to a heap of stones for a turn, then south fifty Degrees west seventeen Rods to a stake for a corner, then North twenty four Degrees west thirty two Rods to a stake for a corner, then North seven Degrees west twenty seven Rods to a stake & stones by Mehitable Bullocks share, then south seventy six Degrees East four Rods to a stake for a corner, then Northerly about ten Rods to said Bullocks corner, then south seventy six Degrees East forty one Rods to a stake for a corner, then south twenty seven Degrees East twenty six Rods to a heap of stones for a turn, then south ten Degrees East six Rods to the first mentioned corner. Containing twelve acres and one half be the same more or less. Reserving aPriviledge for all the heirs and their assigns to pass and repass from their shairs to the highway. where th_e same shall do the lest Damage, which we appraised at two hundred and twenty Eight Dollars $228:00 To Hannah Fuller one third part of the Deceaseds Dwelling House being the North Room in said House with a Priviledge in the Kitchen to wash and bake with one third of the butery and seller with a Priviledge in the yard Round said House being all that was set off to her Mother Elisabeth Fuller as Dower or thirds in said House - also one peace of Land bounded as followeth; the first corner is at the corner of the barn, then North Eighty Eight Degrees west six Rods to a stone in the ground for a corner, then North ten Degrees west six Rods to a stake & stones for a turn, then North twenty seven Degrees west twenty six Rods to a stake in her own line of Land, then south seventy six Degrees East sixteen Rods by her own Land to a stake & stones for a corner, then south ten Degrees East twenty three Rods to the first mentioned corner. Containing one acre and one half be the same more or less. Reserving a Priviledge for all the heirs and their assigns to pass from their shairs through said land where it will Do the. Lest Damage, to the highway, which we appraised at Seventy Six Dollars ...... ·...... $76:00 To Mehitable Bullock wife of Benjamin Bullock two Peaces of Land bounded as followeth, the first corner of the first Peice is a Rock with stones on it, then south ten Degrees west seventeen Rods to a corner of a wall, then North seventy four Degrees west twenty two Rods to a stake & stones for a corner, then North fifty Degrees East seventeen Rods to a heap of stones for a turn, then East one Degree south twelve Rods to the first corner. The first corner of the other peice is a maple stump being a corner of Hannah Fullers Land, then South forty Rods to a heap of stones for a corner, then South seventy six Degrees East sixteen Rods and one quarter of a Rod to a stake & stones for a corner, then South fourteen Degrees west ten Rods to a stake & stones for a corner, then North seventy six Degrees west twenty Rods to a stake & stones for a corner, Then North about forty five Rods to a stake in the Line of Land of Benjamin Monro, then North forty three Degrees East six Rods to the first corner, which we appraised at seventy six Dollars ...... $76:00 To Elisabeth Claflin wife of Noah Claflin one Peice of Land Bounded as followeth; the first corner is a stake & stones in the Line of Land of Benjamin Monro, then south by said Bullocks shair about forty five Rods to a stake & stones for a corner, then south seventy six Degrees East sixteen Rods to a stake 194 TIMOTHY5 FULLER

& stones for a corner, then southerly by Timothy Fullers share twenty seven Rods to a stake & stones for a corner, then North seventy four Degrees west about Eighteen Rods to a stake & stones for a corner, then North about six Degrees west about sixty one Rods to land of said Monro, then by said Monro Land North seventy Degrees East four Rods to a Large white oak tree for a turn, then North forty three Degrees East to the first corner -- Reserving a Priviledge for the Heirs of Huldah Knapp their Heirs and assigns to pass and Repass through said Land to their share at all times where it will Do the least Damage, which we appraised at seventy six Dollars ...... $76:00 To the Heirs of Huldah Knapp Deceased late wife of Peter Knapp Deceased one peice of Land bounded as followeth; the first corner is a stake & stones being a corner of said Claflins share, then North seventy four Degrees west Eleven Rods to a stake being in the Line of Land of Benjamin Monro, then by said Monro Land North ten Degrees west fifty three Rods and one half to a beach tree for a corner, then North seventy Degrees East fifteen Rods and six feet to a stake & stones being a corner of said Claflins shair, then south about six Degrees East about sixty one Rods to the first corner, which we appraised at seventy six Dollars ...... $76:00 Given under our hands this twenty first Day of June AD I 801

Bristol ss. September I st AD 180 I Having examined the foregoing Division I do allow of the same and order it to be of record. Seth Padelford, J. Prob. Recorded pr W. Baylies Register

An Addition to the House on Rocky Hill The decision to build a sizeable addition on the west end of the house was made after mother Elizabeth died. In the division of her mother's estate in 180 l, Hannah was given the same north room and other facilities that her mother had been using. The first mention of a new part of the house was made in 1810, when Timothy's estate TIMOTHY5 FULLER 195 was divided, and his widow Molly was given "the west end of the dwelling house viz., the new part". The addition, therefore, was made sometime between 1801 and Timothy's death in 1809. The addition consisted of a large living room and two smaller rooms on the ground floor, and a bedroom in the attic. There was a fireplace in the new living room and one upstairs in the bedroom. With six rooms downstairs and two in the attic the house must have now seemed quite luxurious compared with the original space. We don't know where Timothy got the money to pay for this addition which nearly doubled the size of the house. He could have done much of the work himself but there was a good deal of new material to buy. The cellar was enlarged, but it was still only a partial cellar, extending across the south half of the house. The base of the chimney was enlarged to support the additional fireplaces. The fireplace in the new living room was back-to-back with the original fireplace in the east room. The new brickwork was carried up through the second floor to provide a fireplace in the new attic bedroom. Totally this mass of brickwork took up so much space in the center of the house that there was very little room for a stairway to the attic. The stairway as built was winding, narrow, and dangerously steep, with no handrail to assist in going up and down. Under these stairs was a stairway leading to the enlarged cellar. Originally the only entrance to the cellar was a bulkhead on the southeast corner of the house. Timothy made the addition with an "A" roof, instead of matching the lines of the original gambrel roof. It was cheaper and easier to build. In many respects the carpentry in the new addition was not much different from that in the original part. Timbers and beams were hand hewn, and fitted by mortised joints and wooden pins. The side walls were boarded vertically. The inside trim around the doors and windows was better than the old. Panel doors were used instead of handmade batten doors. The mantle and trim around the new fireplace also appears to have been a mill product. Nothing further of basic importance was done to the house, other than repairs, until 1963. This year, the owner completely remodeled the interior, put in hot-water baseboard heating, replaced all doors and windows, reshingled the exterior, insulated the attic, relocated and widened the staircase, and made two bedrooms by adding dormer windows. Retaining the original framework, it now is a very usable, modern small house. The three generations of Timothys who lived there 196 TIMOTHY5 FULLER previously would be completely astonished at the change, and none of them would be likely to recognize it as their old homestead. The picture on page 197, taken by the writer in August 19 57, shows the appearance of the house at that time. The smaller buildings at the west end were added by owners subsequent to the time when Timothy6 sold it in 1861 to Thomas Cole for $1,000.00.

Timothy's Death Timothy died shortly after his 58th birthday. The exact date of his death is not on Rehoboth records. On a bible record copied by Herbert C. Fuller, his death is recorded as December 1, 1809. There is no existing gravestone and from the insolvent condition of his estate, it is doubtful if there ever was one. He was probably buried in the Village Cemetery near his father and mother. The size of Dr. James Bliss' claim ($18.95) submitted to the estate indicated that Timothy may have been under the doctor's care for quite a while. SETTLEMENT OF TIMOTHY'S ESTATE From the date of the legal proceedings we can confirm that he died in December 1809, prior to the appointment of the inventory committee. On December 15, 1809, three of Mary's neighbors were appointed by the Probate Judge to take an inventory of Timothy's estate. When Mary saw the result of the inventory she doubtless knew there would be many problems to pay the bills and settle the estate. She wisely decided to let someone else handle the administra­ tion and petitioned the Probate Court as follows: It being inconvenient for me to administer on the estate of my husband late of Rehoboth Deceased, I hereby signify the same to Your Honor and request that some other person or that Isaiah Allen may be appointed to that trust. Rehoboth December 25, AD 1809. Mary Fuller mark X

Timothy's Inventory Committee COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS Bristol ss.) To David Perry• Esqr, Abiah Bliss Jr, and Aaron Cole, suitable ) persons in the County of Bristol, GREETING-- You are hereby appointed and impowered to take an Inventory of all the Estate whereof Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol aforesaid, died seized of in said County; and (according to your best skill and judgement) truly and justly appraise the same in lawful money of this Commonwealth according to TIMOTHY5 FULLER 197

TIMOTHY FULLER HOUSE REHOBOTH, MASS. AUGUST 1957

Showing west end addition with A-roof, made about 1805. Other changes included the door in the east end to enter the living room, and replacement of all window frames and windows. At some time during its existence the side walls of the house were shingled and painted red. The roof and chimney are deteriorating. Most of the interior is now in poor condition due to dampness. No one had lived in the house for a number of years prior to 1957. 198 TIMOTHY5 FULLER

)(

X TIMOTHY5 FULLER 199 the present value thereof; and you are to make return of this Warrant, with your doings thereon, into the Probate Office of said County within three months from the date hereof. Given under my hand this fifteenth day of December Anno Domini One Thousand eight hundred and nine. Seth Padelford) Judge of Probate ) for said County Bristol ss. ) The above named David Perry Esqr personally appeared and Dec. 15, 1809) made oath that he would faithfully and impartially perform the service to which he is appointed by the above Warrant. Before me, Seth Padelford, J. Probate. Bristol ss. ) Then the within named Abiah Bliss, Jun., and Aaron Cole Dec. 19, 1809) personally appeared and made oath that they would faithfully and impartially perform the service to which they are appointed by the within Warrant. Before me, David Perry, Justice Peace. Appointment of Administrator Bristol ss. To Isaiah Allen of Rehoboth in the County and Commonwealth aforesaid: You have been duly appointed Administrator of the Estate of Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth in said County, deceased, and taken upon you the trust by giving Bond faithfully to discharge the duties thereof as the law directs, and are hereby directed to give notice of the same, within three months from the date hereof, by causing notifications thereof to be posted up in some public places at Rehoboth and Attleborough. An affidavit of which, with the original notification ( or copy thereof) you are to make and file in the Probate Court of said County of Bristol, within seven months from the date hereof, that the same may be there recorded, and when occasion should require it, used as evidence of the time, place and manner in which such notice shall have been given. Given under my Hand this second day of January AD 1810. Seth Padelford, J. Prob. Bond of Administration binding Isaiah Allen, yeoman, David Perry Esqr, and Jacob Balkom, gentleman, each in the sum of $10,000 to well and truly administer the estate of Timothy Fuller, yeoman, in accordance with the law ... and to render an account at or before January 2, 1811. This was a printed form regularly used at that time by the Court. Signed January 2, 1810. The Public Notice The subscriber gives public notice to all concerned that he has been duly appointed and taken upon himself the trust of Administrator of the Estate of Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol, deceased, by giving bond as the law directs. He therefore requests all persons who are indebted to 200 TIMOTHY5 FULLER the saiddeceased'sEstate to make immediate payment, and those who have any demands thereon to exhibit the same for settlement to Dated at Taunton on the Isaiah Allen, Admr. second day of January 1810. B. C. Probate, 109:482 Isaiah Allen maketh oath that agreeable to the order of the Hon. Seth Padelford, Judge of the Probate of Wills &c for said County, dated the second day of January last, he did within three months from said date, post up a notification whereof the foregoing is a copy, at each of the following places, viz., Rehoboth and Attleborough. Sworn to by the above named Isaiah Allen. Isaiah Allen at a Probate Court for the County of Bristol holden at Rehoboth in said County on the seventh day of April AD 1812. Before me, H. Baylies, Judge of Probate.

Inventory of Timothy5 Estate An Inventory of all the Estate whereof Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth deceased died seized of. Taken by us the subscribers duly appointed and sworn for that purpose - Great Coat 4d = Blue Coat 4d = 2 pr overalls 3d = hatt socts . 11.50 Small chloths 1.50 = shirts socts shoes and stockings I d83 3.83 No 1 feather bed, bedsted & cord & furniture 27d 27.00 No 2 Do-do-do 12d = No 3 Do-do- 6d . . . . . 18.00 3 chists 5d25 = meal chist 1d 17 = bread trough socts 6.92 8 Bushels of corn 8d = quart wheel 1d25 = small Do 2d 11.25 Saddle 4d = 2 wash tubbs 4octs = basketts 75cts = sundries 1d90 7.05 2 tables 2d 17 = Lombs & tackling 5d = 6 chairs 2d . . . . 9.17 Iron hollow wair 3d = handirons shovel & Tongs 2ds8 5.58 2 tramels 75cts = handsaw 33cts = Pewter 1dgo = books socts 3.38 Earthan wair 1d 17 = knives & forks 25cts = bottles socts 1.92 4 barrils sider 8d = 7 sider barrils 2d33 = 2 pailes 33cts 10.66 3 old casks socts = pork & barril 10d = beef & dito 5d = potatoes 1d25 . 16.75 1 horse 20d = 1 cow 17d = 1 do 16d = 1 - 2 yar old 15d = yearlin 11 d . 79.00 1 calf 4d50 = swine 5d = 4 sheep 6d ...... 15.50 Cowhide 2d50 = coller & harness 75cts = 3 old hoes socts = Beatie rings 4octs ...... 4.15 add & pick axe socts = old Iron 2d = horse chaines 1d50 4.00 2 Iron bares 2d50 = Inglish hay 20d = fresh do 10d . 32.50 2 forks 6octs = 1 plow 6d = flax brake 1d = flax in straw 6d 13.60 TIMOTHY5 FULLER 201

3 hay rakes socts = sundry old tools 1d75 2.25 cart & wheels 15d = 2 Iron wedges 33cts 15.33 Sum Total - - - - 299.40 Real estate being about sixty eight acres with the buildings thereon standing . appraised at fourteen hundred & four dollars ...... 1404.00 David Perry Abiah Bliss Jr Aaron Cole Jany 2d 1810 setd & sworn to by Isaiah Allen Adr. Bristol ss. Jan 2nd 1810. The minute above was made by the Honble Judge Padelford. attes. W. Baylies, Register It is apparent that Isaiah Allen was an efficient Administrator, as he doubtless had the Inventory with him when he appeared in court January 2, 1810 to receive his appointment. He lost no time in getting practically all of the details settled in about four months, although it was not until two years later that he filed his second and final accounting. Comments on the Inventory The listing of Timothy's worldly goods, or "personal property", is surprising in several respects. His scanty wardrobe would lead us to conclude that his constant attire was shirt and overalls. His "blue coat" was probably for special occasions or cool weather, and his "great coat" for winter use. Having no compiete suit of clothes, like his father's "coat, jacket and breeches", we wonder if he ever went to church or attended public functions in his overalls! Comparing the inventory with his father's, we find that there are many items which his father had, such as farm tools and equipment, that Timothy5 apparently got along without. His livestock was much fewer in number, and accordingly less in value. His household furnishings were adequate, but again, not as extensive as his father's. In running the farm, it appears that he only did what he could do by himself. His ambition seems to have been limited to the simple necessity of making a living. Permission to Sell Land Isaiah Allen prepared his first accounting and went to Taunton to get it allowed by the Judge of Probate. At the same time, he presented his financial problem to the Judge of the Court of 202 TIMOTHY5 FULLER

Common Pleas, and obtained permission to sell enough land to pay the remaining debts. The record in the Court of Common Pleas is in Vol. XVII (1809 - 1812), page 99, Case 139. Isaiah Allen of Rehoboth in said County of Bristol yeoman, Administrator of the estate of Timothy Fuller late of said Rehoboth, yeoman, deceased. Humbly Sheweth: that the Goods and Chattels belonging to said deceased estate are not sufficient to answer the just debts which the said deceased owed at the time of his death and incidental charges by the sum of Three hundred and forty dollars:- he therefore prays your Honours to grant him licence to sell as much of said deceased's Estate as will amount to the aforementioned sum agreeably to a law of this Commonwealth in such case made and provided:- After a full hearing of said Petition it is ordered that the Administrator be and hereby is fully impowered to make sale of so much of said deceased's Real Estate as will fetch the above sum of Three hundred and forty dollars for the purpose of paying said just debts, charges, &c., that said Administrator post up notifications thirty days before the sale and account with the Judge of Probate for the proceeds thereof according to law. Although he asked for $340.00, it appears, from his first accounting, that the total of unpaid debts was $371.14. However, the estate account was finally balanced, and everybody was paid. To make comparison easier, the first and second accounts will be included together after the Division of Molly's dower third of the property. Public Vendue To be sold by order of the Court at the dwelling house of TIMOTHY FULLER late of Rehoboth deceased, on Thursday the nineteenth day of April next, at one o'clock in the afternoon to the value of three hundred and forty dollars of said real estate or so much as will be necessary to pay the just debts of the deceased and legal expenses of sale. Rehoboth, March 17, 1810. Isaiah Allen, Admr. B.C.Probate 47:189

The above notice was posted in Attleborough, Taunton, and Rehoboth. The sale was held as scheduled and 18 acres of the land was sold to Asaph Bliss, a neighbor, for $299.72. The deed of sale: TIMOTHY5 FULLER 203

ESTATE OF TIMOTHY5 FULLER TO ASAPH BLISS To all persons to whom these Presents shall come, wheras I, Isaiah Allen, Administrator on the Estate of Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth, deceased, By an Order of Court of Pleas for the said County of Bristol, which was begun and held at Taunton on the Second Monday of March AD 1810, was licensed to make sale of the Real Estate of said deceased for the payment of his debts anct' legal expences and incidental charges. Therefore know ye that I the said Isaiah Allen Administrator as aforesaid as well as by virtue of the power given me as aforesaid, in consideration of the sum of two hundred and ninty nine dollars and seventy two cents paid by Asaph Bliss of Rehoboth in said County, yeoman, the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge, do hereby give, grant, sell and convey unto him the said Asaph Bliss his heirs and assigns forever, a certain tract of land situate in Rehoboth bounded as followeth: the first corner is at a wall it being a corner of Major Ebenezer Hunts land, then Northerly by said Hunts land and land of Doctor James Bliss to a stake and stones for a corner, being a corner of the thirds set off to the widow Molly Fuller, then by a stone wall north Eighty seven degrees West ninteen rods to a turn, then South Eighty six degrees West about forty two rods to a stake by the highway for a corner, then Southerly by said highway to a lane leading to said Hunts dwelling house, being said Hunts land, then by said lane or said Hunts land to the first mentioned corner, containing by estimation Eighteen acres and twenty five rods, be the same more or less. To have and to hold the same with the previleges thereof to him the said Asaph Bliss his heirs and assigns forever. And I do hereby in the capacity aforesaid, covenant with the said Asaph Bliss his heirs and assigns that the said Timothy Fuller died seized of the premises, that I was duly licensed by said Court to make sale of the same, that previous to said Sale I took the oath by Law prescribed and gave public notice of said Sale according to Law, and that the said Asaph Bliss offered most for the same. And I do further in the capacity aforesaid covenant with the said Asaph Bliss his heirs and assigns, that the premises are free of all incumbrances and that I will warrant and defend the same to him the said Asaph Bliss his heirs and assigns forever against the lawful claims and demands of all persons. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this ninteenth day of April AD 1810. Signed sealed and delivered Isaiah Allen, Admr (S) in presence of us Ebenezer Medbury Jr Bristol ss. April 19, 1810. Then the within David Perry named Isaiah Allen personally appeared and Received Sept. 15, 1814 in his said capacity acknowledged the within and recorded by Instrument by him sealed to be his free act James Williams, Register. and deed. B. C. Deeds 97: 229 before me David Perry, Just of Peace. 204 TIMOTHY5 FULLER

Warrant to Set Off Molly's Dower Third To: David Perry, Esqr, Abiah Bliss, Esqr, and Elihu Carpenter ... I do hereby appoint and authorize you a Committee to appraise all the Real Estate whereof Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth deceased, Intestate, died seized and possessed of in said Commonwealth, each piece and parcel by itself, at present true value thereof in lawful Money ( according to the rents and profits thereof) all in words at length ... When you have perfected your Inventory you are to set off to Molly Fuller, the said deceased's Widow, one full third part of said Estate (so as may be convenient for her) for her Dower or Thirds (according to the rents and profits thereof) during her natu_ral life; and what you so set off you are to describe by plain and lasting metes and bounds, so that confusion may be prevented upon the reversion of the Dower ... Given under my Hand and Seal of office at Taunton in said County of Bristol this sixth day of March Anno Domini 1810. Judge Hodijah Baylies. Bristol ss: March 6, 1810, David Perry, Esqr is sworn to faithful performance by Judge Baylies. Bristol ss: March 22, 1810, Abiah Bliss, Esqr and Elihu Carpenter are sworn to faithful performance by David Perry, Esqr. Division of Real Estate for Widow Molly's Dower Third Pursuant to a Warrant to us directed, by the Honorable HodijahBaylies Esq. Judge of Probate of Wills for the County of Bristol - We the subscribers having been first sworn as the said Warrant directs, have appraised all the Real Estate whereof Timothy Fuller late of said Rehoboth in said County of Bristol Commonwealth of Massachusetts, deceased, died seized of and possessed within this Commonwealth, as followeth, viz. By estimation Sixty eight Acres of land situated in said Rehoboth which we appraised at one Thousand Four hundred and four Dollars ...... $1404.00 One third of which we find to be Four hundred and Sixty eight Dollars $ 468 .00 We then set off to Molly Fuller Widow of said deceased for her Dower or third thereof, One Tract of Land (Chiefly improved) by estimation Fifteen acres and seventy two rods and is bounded as followeth; Beginning at a Road and a stone wall near and Easterly of the dwelling house of Benjamin Bullock and bounded with said Bullocks Land, runs North Eighty six Degrees West Fourteen rods and twenty links of Gunters chain by stone wall. Thence South Thirteen Degrees West Twenty four rods to a stake and heap of stones. Thence North Sixty six Degrees West twelve rods to a heap of stones. Thence North Four Degrees East Thirteen rods to a stone Wall. Thence North Seventy eight Degrees West six rods by a stone Wall. Thence North twelve Degrees East Sixteen rods and twenty links of Gunters chain to a rock. Thence West twelve rods to a stake and stones. Thence South Fifty Degrees West Five rods. Thence North Thirty five Degrees West bounded by said deceaseds land Twenty eight rods to a Rock and stones upon it, in medow land. Thence North Forty nine Degrees East Eight rods to a TIMOTHY5 FULLER 205 stake in the medow. Thence South Seventy six Degrees East Eighteen rods and Eighteen links of Gunters chain to a stake and heap of stones. Thence North Twenty seven Degrees East Six rods to a heap of stones it being a corner of the Land of Asaph Bliss. Thence bounded with said Blisses Land North nine Degrees East thirteen rods and sixteen links of Gunters chain. Thence North Eighty six Degrees East Twenty eight rods to the Road. Thence bounded with said Road Southerly twenty six rods. Thence bounded with a stone wall by an old orchard South Seventy nine Degrees West Ten rods and nineteen links of Gunters chain to a stone wall. Thence South Four Degrees East Ten rods. Thence North Eighty four Degrees East Seven rods to the North side of the house near the center. Thence South Ten Degrees West across the house One rod and Fourteen Jinks of Gunters chain to the southerly side of the house. Thence South Eighty Degrees East about three rods & eighteen links of Gunters chain to said Road. Thence Southerly about seventeen rods to the first corner. Also the West end of the dwelling house, viz. the new part and one third part of the celler under the old end of the house. And one third part of the Chernney, and a Priveledge to Bake in the Oven. Reserving for the use of the heirs of the deceased, or their assigns, a Priveledge of Door yard and a pass to the Well and one third part of the haybarn, and one third part of the Manure that is now there. And a priveledge for said heirs or their assigns to pass and repass with Teams and Carriages to their Land. And also reserving a priveledge for the heirs of Timothy Fuller senior formerly of said Rehoboth deceased, to pass and repass with Teams and Carriages to their Land. Also reserving two rows of Apple Trees being eight trees on the East end of the West Orchard for Hannah Fuller and her Assigns during her natural life, and Also reserving for the said Hannah Fuller all the wood agreeable to her Contract with the said deceased. Which premises we appraised at Three hundred and Seventy three Dollars ...... $373.00 We also set off to the said Molly Fuller, Widow of the said deceased, a Tract of Woodland by Estimation Four acres and one hundred and thirty rods, lying on the Easterly side of the Road near said House, and is Bounded as followeth. Begin at said Road runs North six Degrees East Fourteen rods and two feet to a heap of stones it being a comer of the Ministerial Land. Thence bounded with said Ministerial Land North Eighty six Degrees East Fifty six rods to a heap of stones near Wolf pond so called. Thence South Twelve Degrees East Fourteen rods to a heap of stones. Thence by stone Wall North Eighty seven Degrees West Nineteen rods to a tum. Thence South Eighty six Degrees West about Forty two rods to the first mentioned corner. Which Tract we appraised at Ninety five Dollars ...... $95.00 Amounting in the whole to the sum of Four hundred and Sixty eight Dollars ...... $468.00 David Perry Rehoboth April 2, 1810 Elihu Carpenter Bristol ss. April 3, 1810. Abiah Bliss Jr Having examined the foregoing Division I do hereby allow of the same and order it to be of record. H. Baylies, J. Prob. 206 TIMOTHY5 FULLER

After setting off Molly's third as specified above, the remammg land (about 48 acres) was not then divided among the four children as they were all under 21 years of age. The farm continued to be operated as a whole until after Molly died on February 20, 1821. An agreement made by the four children dated March 29, 1821, then divided the entire property including Molly's third. This agreement is quoted in Chapter VII.

Guardians Appointed for the Minor Children

COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS By the Honourable Hodijah Bay lies, Esquire, Judge of Probate of Wills &c for and within the County of Bristol in the Commonwealth aforesaid. To: Ebenezer Medbury, Junr, of Rehoboth in the County and Commonwealth aforesaid, yeoman, GREETING: Trusting in your Care and Fidelity, I do by these Presents pursuant to the Power and Authority to me granted, in and by an Act of the General Court of the said Commonwealth, nominate and appoint you to be Guardian unto Hannah Fuller and Timothy Fuller minors under the age of fourteen years, children of Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol, deceased. . . . to pay and deliver such and so much of the said Estate as shall be remaining upon your Account (the same being first examined and allowed by the Judge or Judges for the Time being, of Probate &c.) unto the said minors when they shall respectively arrive at full age, or otherwise as the said Judge or Judges by his or their Decree or sentence, pursuant to law, shall limit and appoint. Rehoboth the third day of April AD 1810. Entered from the original H. Baylies Per W. Baylies, Register. B.C.Probate 132: I

On the same day, Judge Baylies signed the appointment to David Perry, Esquire, as guardian unto Huldah Fuller and Polly Fuller, minors above the age of fourteen years. This is recorded in B.C.Probate 132:5. Ebenezer Medbury, Jr., was Molly's brother. David Perry was a young lawyer and Justice of the Peace. There does not appear to be a final accounting of these guardianships in the Probate records. TIMOTHY5 FULLER 207

Accounting of Timothy's Estate Isaiah Allen .submitted his first accounting on March 6, 1810, and his second and final account two years later on April 7, 1812. These two accounts are quoted in full as they show that Timothy had been unable to pay an accumulation of small debts. It was a common problem in those years, in settling farmers' estates. Isaiah Allen deserves commendation for balancing Timothy's accounts with the loss of only eighteen acres of land. First Accounting by Isaiah Allen, Administrator - March 6, 1810 The account of Isaiah Allen Administrator on the Estate of Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth Deceased, the accountant chargeth himself with the Personal Estate of said Deceased, amounting as per Inventory to the sum of two hundred and Ninty nine Dollars and forty cents ...... $299"40 And prays allowance for the following Charges and payments - (viz) - - - to articles sold at vendue for less than appraised $ 5"00 to a Journey to Probate Court at Taunton 1"00 to cash paid at said Court . . . . . 3"75 to one Day shewing Estate to appraisers 1"00 to Notifying and attending on vendue 2"50 Paid David Perry as pr Receipt 1"75 Paid Noah Chaffee pr Dito . . . 0"79 Paid Remember Kent pr Dito . . 0"58 Paid Christopher Carpenter pr Do 0"58 Paid Daniel Lewis as pr Dito 4"80 Paid Ebenezer Carpenter as pr Dito 4"00 Paid Samuel Northup pr Dito . 5"68 Paid Ephraim Walker as pr Dito 6"92 Paid Abiah Bliss fa as pr Do 0"50 Paid Aaron Cole pr Dito 0"50 to allowance of articles for the widow of Provisions & household furniture ...... 175"00 to a Journey to probate Court and setting this account ...... 3"00 cash paid at said Court for settling this, two Certificates, & order to set off Widow's thirds ...... 3"00 220.35 Sundry debts not paid (viz) Due to Hannah Fuller $ 64"94 to John Davenport 2"74 to David Brown 21"11 to Ebenezer Peck 23"5 l to Sarah Carpenter 114"40 to Betsey Claflin . 22"10 208 TIMOTHY5 FULLER to Vashty Fowler 10" 8 to Lydia Croad 10"50 to Doct James Bliss 18"95 to Abel Bliss 11"33 to Ezra Bliss 4"07 to Apollos Peirce 2"28 to Richard Goff 15"89 to Josial Perry 3"00 to Sundry Small account 17"41 to Isaiah Allen 2"92 to Taxes for AD 1808 & 1809 5"91 to Sebra Lawton about 20"00 Isaiah Allen Adm. March 6, 1810 Sworn & allowed Bristol ss. March 6th, 1810. Then Isaiah Allen made oath to the truth of this aforewritten account which I do allow of & order to be of record. H. Baylies, J. Prob.

Second ( and final) accounting by Isaiah Allen, Admr - April 7, 1812 The Second account of Isaiah Allen Administrator upon the Estate of Timothy Fuller Late of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol, yeoman, Deceased. Who Chargeth himself with his first account amounting to ...... $299.40 also the amount of said Real Estate sold by order of Court, viz. April 19th 1810 Sold to Aseph Bliss 18 acres 25 rods for 299.72 Received Interest on Aseph Bliss' Note 6.00 Received of Hannah Fuller . . . . . 1.74 Received for half a herrow not Inventoryed 1.27 Received of Ebenezer Medbery Guardian for two of the Heirs of said Deceased ...... • . 28.35 $636.48 And Prays allowance of the following Charges and Payments, viz. To what was allowed in my first account ...... 217.35 To my time and expences of petitioning the Court for Licence to Sell Real Estate and Notifying the Sale attending Vendue and Giving a Deed &c ... 5.50 To James Bliss 18.95 To Noah Claflin 21.40 To Ebenezer Peck 23.97 To Hannah Fuller 64.08 To Albes Pearce . 1.56 To Samuel Allen . .50 To Sarah Carpenter by Samuel Carpenter 115.98 To Ezra Bliss ...... 4.07 TIMOTHY5 FULLER 209

To Sebray Lawton 14.45 To Aaron Cole 2.12 To Abel Bliss 2nd 4.92 To ditto 6.60 To Josiah Perry 3.00 To James French 2.00 To Benjamin Munro 3.00 To James Carpenter 1.00 To David Brown . 21.36 To Richard Goff . 15.89 To Elihu Carpenter 3.00 To Azariah Hix 2.03 To John Davenport 2.92 To John Brown . 9.86 To James Bliss 2nd 0.75 To Lovel Goff 1.21 To Benjamin Bowen 1.67 To Peter & Josiah Hunt 1.62 To Abiah Bliss Jnr 1.00 To Lydia Croad 10.50 To Ebenezer Peck 2nd .47 To James Bliss 3nd 2.92 To Abel Shary 1.00 To Elezer Luther 2.50 To David Fitts 1.78 To George Jinks .71 To Polly Hunt .37 To Joseph Smith 6.54 To Ezekiel Kent .67 To Abel Medery 6.85 To Mary Fuller 2.73 To Ebenezer Carpenter 2.88 To my own accompt 2.92 To Nathan Hix 2.25 To Milton Perrey .87 To David Perrey 4.17 To Joseph Goff Jun 1.26 To my own time and Expences in Administering upon and Settling of said Estate and this Days attendance at Probate Court ...... 12.00 $635.15 To Probate fees for this act ...... Rehoboth April 7th AD 1812 Isaiah Allen Apr 7, 1812 Sworn to & allowd Bristol ss. April 7th 1812. Then Isaiah Allen made oath to the truth of his aforewritten account which I do allow of & order to be of record. H. Baylies, J. Prob. 210 TIMOTHY5 FULLER

LAND TRANSACTIONS OF TIMOTHY5 FULLER

All of the real estate transactions by Timothy were made within the family, and were made in the twenty years following his father's death. He retained the same location on Rocky Hill with about the same acreage that his father had. Sister Hannah Fuller, who lived with Timothy, sold him the five acre piece, just north of the house, which she inherited from her father and also the one and a half acres which was her share in the division of her step-mother Elizabeth's estate. She also quit claim to any further interest in her own mother's (Hannah Bliss Fuller) property which might have been given to her father Timothy4 as well as any claim against her father's estate. Hannah may have been making a fuss about not getting a direct share of her mother's Palmer river land which Timothy4 and Hannah (Bliss) sold in the first year of their marriage for a total of E 290. Anyhow, the quit claim deed eliminated any further legal argument. On June 10, 1784, sister Elizabeth and her husband, Noah Claflin, sold the 6 acres 89 rods that Elizabeth had inherited from her father Timothy4, to her brother-in-law Benjamin Bullock. In 1803 she sold the 4 acres 100 rods which was her share of her step-mother Elizabeth's estate, to her brother Timothy. In the same deed she quit claim to any further interest in her father's, mother's, and step-mother's estates. Sister Huldah Knap had died July 23, 1776, six years prior to her father's death in 1782. Her husband, Peter Knap, sold (for Huldah's heirs) the 6 acres 38 rods inherited from her father, to Benjamin Bullock on April 7, 1784. At the time of this deed, Peter Knap and his children were living in Willing­ ton, Connecticut. The 4½ acres which were divided among Huldah's heirs from the estate of her step-mother Elizabeth, the six Knap children sold to Benjamin Bullock on June 1, 1802. At the time of this deed, all of the children were over twenty-one years old and living in New Hampshire and Vermont. Seven months later, on January 19, 1803, Benjamin Bullock sold this piece to Timothy5 . TIMOTHY5 FULLER 211

Sister Sarah Carpenter held the 6 acres 49 rods inherited from her father until March 9, 1799, when she sold it to Timothy for $63.00. At that time she was a widow and living in Sutton, Mass. She sold the four acres she received from the division of her mother's estate to Timothy on June 19, 1801, for $76.00. In this deed she quit claim to any further rights in the estates of her father and mother. In the settlement of her brother Timothy's estate in 18 I 0, Sarah was paid $114.40, which makes it appear that he had made a down payment of about $25.00 when the papers were passed for these two deeds. Youngest sister, Mehitabel Bullock, retained all of her in­ herited lands, adding them to her husband Benjamin's home­ stead land just south of Timothy's land. Apparently Mehitabel did not sign any quit claim papers. For many years her family was the nearest family to the Fullers on Rocky Hill Road.

Summary of Timothy5 Land Transactions Acres Rods Value Mar. 31, 1784 Inherited from father's estate 8 83 -b 54 Mar. 31, 1784 Purchased from father's es- tate through Jacob Shorey 29 55 -b 93 Mar. 9, 1799 Purchased from sister Sarah Carpenter (her share of her father's estate) ...... 6 49 $ 63 June 19, 1801 Purchased from Sarah Car- penter, her share of mother's estate ...... 4 0 $ 76 June 21, 180 I Inherited from his mother's estate ...... 8 80 $152 Jan. 29, 1803 Purchased from Benjamin Bullock, land he purchased from heirs of Huldah Knap which was her share of her step-mother Elizabeth's es- tate ...... 4 100 $ 80 212 TIMOTHY5 FULLER

-- -- 1803 Wife Molly's share of her mother's (Mary Medbury) estate ...... 7 0 $150 Mar. 3 I, 1803 Purchased from sister Eliza­ beth Claflin, her share of step-mother Elizabeth's es- tate ...... 4 I 00 $ 80 Nov. 26, 1803 Purchased from sister Han­ nah Fuller, 5 acres inherited from her father and I½ acres from her step-mother Eliza- beth's estate ...... 6 80 $130 Total acquired ...... 79 67 Feb. 3, 1803 Sold to Ebenezer, Jr., and Abel Med bury, his wife Molly's land ...... 7 0 $150 Nov. 26, 1803 Sold to sister Hannah, part of the land he purchased through Jacob Shorey .... . 2 80 $ 50 Total sold ...... 9 80 The sale of these two pieces left Timothy with about 70 acres which checks closely with the estimate of 68 acres made by the appraisers of his estate in 1810. The deeds which follow are quoted from the old hand-written copy books at the Bristol County Registry of Deeds. The accuracy of measurements, angles, and other details are greatly improved over earlier deeds but still lack definite location. Old stone walls are still in evidence as boundary lines in many cases.

RECORDED DEEDS OF TIMOTHYS FULLER I. JACOB SHOREY TO TIMOTHY FULLER Know all men by these Presents that I, Jacob Shorey of Rehoboth in ye County of Bristol in ye Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, in considera­ tion of ye sum of Ninty three pound Lawfull money to me in Hand paid by Timothy Fuller of ye above sd Rehoboth, yeoman, Have Bargained & do by these Presents Sell, Convey & Confirm unto him ye said Timothy Fuller his heirs & assigns forever - Two Peices of Land situate in said Rehoboth Bounded as followeth: TIMOTHY5 FULLER 213

The first peice of Land lieth on ye Easterly side of ye Highway near sd Timothy Fullers House. The first corner is a large stone pitched in ye ground on ye Easterly side of sd Way about two rods to ye North of sd House. Then North & Bounding by sd Way about 55 rods to a stake for a corner. Then E 4 N 56 rods & Bounding with Land formerly belonging to Mr Ephraim Hunt, Deed, to Land of Deen Daniel Bliss. Then Southerly with said Blisses Land to a stone pitched in ye ground by the side of ye stone Wall being ye Southeast corner. Then West running with a stone Wall & Bounding with sd Blisses Land 46 rods to a Turn in sd Wall. Then West IO S 17¼ rods to ye first corner. (23 acres 55 rods in this piece) The other peice of Land lie th on ye West side of said Way. The first corner is a Red oak Tree by the Highway being ye Northeast corner of Liet Ezra Ides Land. Then North 62 D West 92 rods to a stake for a corner. Then N 12 DE 10 rods six feet to a stake for a corner. Then South 62 East 93 rods to a stake in ye line of ye Highway. Then with said Way Ten rods to ye said first corner - being by Estimation six Acres. To have and to hold etc ... In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this thirty first Day of March in ye year One Thousand Seven hundred & Eighty four and in ye Eighth year of ye Independance of ye United States of America. Signed Sealed & Delivered Jacob Shorey (S) in presence of Elihu Carpenter. Bristol ss. March 31st, 1784. Personally appeared Jacob Shorey signer to this Instru­ Recd Sept 15th, 1785 ment acknowledged ye same to be his free and Recorded by Voluntary Act & Deed. James Williams, Register. Before Shubael Peck, Justice Peace. B.C.Deeds 64:289 (This is the companion deed to the one quoted in Chapter V, wherein TimothyS acting as Administrator, sells to Jacob Shorey who in turn deeds it to Timothy as above. A few measurements as recorded do not agree in comparing the two deeds, probably because each was written by a separate lawyer, and also due to errors of the copy clerk.)

2. TIMOTHY FULLER ET UX ET AL TO JOSIAH IDE Know all men by these Pre:ents that we Ebenezer Medbury, Ebenezer Medbury Jr, Abel Medbury, Timothy Fuller and Molly Fuller his wife, all of Rehoboth in ye County of Bristol Commonwealth of Massachusetts, have for and in consideration of ye sum of five dollars, have remised, released and do by these presents rernise, release and forever quit claim to Josiah Ide of said Rehoboth, all our right, title, interest, claim or demand whatsoever to two fifths of one half acre of salt meadow lying in Swansey in said County of Bristol, being all our share in sd meadow that was left to us by our Hond Father & Grandfather Josiah Ide late of Rehoboth Deed, and is Bounded as may appear 214 TIMOTHY5 FULLER by Records or Deeds to sd Josiah Ide Deed. One half of sd remised premises was remised to ye above mentioned Ebenezer Medbury from John Smith and Elizabeth Smith. In Witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and Seals this Seventh Day of June in ye year of our Lord one Thousand Seven hundred & Ninety Three. Signed, Sealed & Delivered Ebenezer Medbury in ye presence of us: Ebenezer Medbury Jr David Perry Jr. Abel Med bury Elihu Carpenter Timothy Fuller her Molly X Fuller mark . Bristol ss. June ye 7th, 1793 Then personally appeared Ebenezer Med bury, Ebenezer Med bury Jr, Abel Med bury, Timothy Fuller, and Molly Fuller, Subscribers to this Instrument & Acknowledged ye same to be their free act & deed. before David Perry Junr, Justice Peace. Recd Sept 30th, 1793 and Recorded by James Williams, Regr. B. C. Deeds 72: 194 (Josiah Ide, grandfather of Molly, Ebenezer Jr., and Abel Medbury, was born in Rehoboth October 20, 1698, and died there November 30, 1731. He married at Rehoboth, June 18, 1724, Mary Walker, who was born in Rehoboth March 19, 1699/1700, the daughter of Philip and Jane Walker. Josiah and Mary (Walker) Ide had four children, including Josiah Jr., to whom the above quit claim deed was given, and a daughter Mary Ide born in Rehoboth January 1, 1730/31. Mary married Ebenezer Medbury on May 12, 1751. She died April 14, 1763 in Rehoboth. Ebenezer and Mary (Ide) Medbury had three children: Ebenezer Jr., Abel, and Mary who was usually called Molly. The above deed confirms the parentage and also the maternal grand parentage of Molly.) 3. SARAH CARPENTER TO TIMOTHY FULLER Know all men by these Presents that I, Sarah Carpenter of Sutton in the County of Worcester, widow, in consideration of sixty-three Dollars paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol, yeoman, the receipt whereof I acknowledge, do hereby give, grant, sell and convey unto him the sd Timothy Fuller Jr, to his heirs and assigns forever a certain tract ofland situate in Rehoboth being sd Sarahs share in the real Estate of her Hond Father Timothy Fuller deed, as by sd Division may appear and bounded as followeth ~ The first corner is a heap of stones in the southerly line of the widows Thirds, thence north seventy-four degrees west about sixty-one rods and twelve feet to a TIMOTHY5 FULLER 215 heap of stones by land of Benjamin Munroe, then south ten degrees east about· seventeen rods to a corner of a swamp, then south eighty-one degrees east ten rods and ten feet to a heap of stones for a corner, then south twelve degrees west one rod and ten feet to a heap of stones for a corner, then south sixty-two degrees east fifty-three rods and half to a corner in the meadow, then north by land set off to the heirs of Huldah Knap twenty-nine rods to the first mentioned corner. Containing by estimation six acres and forty-nine rods more or less. March 9, 1799. Sarah Carpenter (S) Signed sealed & delivered in presence of us David Perry Jr. Bristol ss. March ye 9, 1799 Benjamin Bullock Then the above named Sarah Carpenter personally acknowledged the above Instru­ ment by her sealed to be her Deed. Before me David Perry Jr. Just. Peace Recd April 22, 1801 and recorded by James Williams, Register B.C.Deeds 80:43 4. SARAH CARPENTER TO TIMOTHY FULLER Know all men by these Presents that I, Sarah Carpenter of the Town of Northbridge in the County of Worcester in the State of Massachusetts, for Seventy Six Dollars to me paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth in the state aforesd, the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge, have remised, released and forever quit claim unto said Timothy Fuller his heirs and assigns forever, all my right in the Estate of my honoured father Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth, deceased, being my right in the thirds of my Mother Elizabeth Fuller, late of Rehoboth, deceased, unto the said Timothy Fuller his heirs and assigns forever; by estimation four acres of land in the thirds of Elizabeth Fuller, deceased. Hereunto I set my hand and seal this nineteenth day of June A.O. one thousand eight hundred and one. Signed sealed Sarah Carpenter (S) in presence of Benjamin Bullock Bristol ss. Rehoboth June 20, AD 1801 Isaiah Allen Then the within named Sarah Carpenter Recd April 15, 1806 signer to the within instrument appeared and and recorded by acknowledged the same to be her voluntary James Williams, Register. act and deed, hand and seal B.C.Deeds 86:80 Before me, Thomas Carpenter, Just. of Peace. 5. BENJAMIN BULLOCK TO TIMOTHY FULLER Know all men by these Presents that I, Benjamin Bullock of Rehoboth in ye County of Bristol in ye Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, in considera­ tion of Eighty Dollars paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth aforesd do by these presents sell convey & confirm to him the sd Timothy Fuller his heirs & assigns 216 TIMOTHY5 FULLER forever, a certain Tract of Land situated in sd Rehoboth & is by Estamation four acres & one hundred rods be ye same more or less, and is all the Land I purchased of ye heirs of Huldah Knap deed and is all ye Land set of to ye above sd heirs of Huldah Knap deed in ye Division of ye widow Fullers Land set off to her in Estate of Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth deed and is all ye Real Estate belonging the above sd heirs of the sd Huldah Knap in ye above sd Timothy Fullers Estate Except what ye said Benjamin Bullock purchased of Peter Knap husband to the said Huldah Knap as may more fully appear by his deed to said Benj Bullock which ye above sd heirs relinquished to our hand Father Peter Knap by our acquittance. To hold ye same with all ye prevelidges etc ... In Witness whereof I ye said Benjamin Bullock and Mehetable ye wife of ye said Bena have hereunto set to our hands and seals this Twenty nineth Day of January in ye year of our Lord 1803. Signed Sealed & Delivered in presence of us Bena Bullock (S) Abel Medbury Mehetable Bullock (S) Cromwell Peck Bristol ss. Rehoboth February 3d AD 1803 Then Benjamin Bullock signer to ye Recd Feby 9th 1803 above Instrument personally appeared & and recorded by acknowledged ye same to be his Act & Deed, James Williams, Regr. hand & Seal. before me Danl Carpenter, B.C.Deeds 82: 116 Justice of the Peace. (The above land had been deeded to Benjamin Bullock June 1, 1802 by the children of Huldah Knap for $80.00. B. C. Deeds, 82: 115)

6. TIMOTHY & MARY FULLER TO EBENEZER, Jr. & ABEL MED BURY Know all men by these Presents that we Timothy Fuller and Mary Fuller, wife of the sd Timothy, of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, in consideration of One Hundred and Fifty Dollars paid by Ebenezer Medbury Jr., yeoman, and Abel Medbury, yeoman, both of Rehoboth aforesd the moity or half part paid by each, the receipt whereof we do hereby acknowledge, do hereby give, grant, sell and convey unto the sd Ebenezer Medbury Jr. and Abel Medbury in equal halves and to each their respective heirs and assigns forever a certain Tract or Parcel of land situate in Rehoboth aforesd, all our Right being one quarter part of that twenty eight acre lot that did belong in Fee to our Honoured Mother Mary Medbury, deed, and now held and improved by the curtesy of our hand Father Ebenezer Medbury during his natural life, with the Buildings &c thereon standing after our sd Father's decease, to be held and possessed by the Grantees. To have and to hold etc .... In Witness whereof we the sd Timothy Fuller and Mary Fuller have hereunto set our hands and seals this third day of February in the year of our Lord One TIMOTHY5 FULLER 217

Thousand Eight Hundred and Three. Signed sealed and delivered in presence of us Timothy Fuller (S) Daniel Carpenter Mary Fuller (S) Benjamin Bullock Bristol ss. Rehoboth Feby 3d, 1803 Then the above named Timothy Fuller and Mary Fuller did acknowledge the above Instrument to be their free Act and Deed. Dani Carpenter, Justice of ye Peace. Recd April 20, 1803 and recorded by James Williams, Regr. B.C.Deeds 82:309 7. NOAH & ELIZABETH CLAFLIN TO TIMOTHY FULLER Know all men by these Presents that we, Noah Claflin and Elizabeth Claflin his wife, of Wrentham in the County of Norfolk and Commonwealth of Massachu­ setts, yeoman, in consideration of Eighty Dollars to us in hand paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth aforesd, yeoman, the receipt whereof we hereby acknowledge, and other good causes and considerations us hereunto moving do for ourselves and our heirs remise, release, sell and forever quit claim unto him the sd Timothy Fuller and to his heirs and assigns forever all the Right, Title or Interest or Claim we now have or ought to have in the Real Estate of our Hond Father Timothy Fuller of sd Rehoboth late deed. Bounded and described as in the division mentioned recorded in the Office of the Court of Probate for sd County of Bristol will fully appear, reference thereto being had, Containing four acres and one hundred rods of Land, be the same more or less, with all and singular all Rights and Demands which we the sd Noah Claflin or Elizabeth his wife have or ever had or ought to have in or unto the Estate of the sd Timothy Fuller deed or of his wife or wives with all Reversions, Remainder or Remainders of the same, excepting only what the sd Elizabeth heretofore conveyed to Benjamin Bullock. To have and to hold the aforegranted and bargained Premises with all the appurtenances to him the sd Timothy Fuller his heirs and assigns forever with all and singular the appurtenances thereto belonging or appertaining; so that neither we the sd Noah and Elizabeth his wife or either of our heirs shall or will pretend to claim or demand any Right or Title or Interest which we have or hereafter can pretend to have in sd Estate by virtue of any Right or Title we have or ought to have but shall by these Presents shall be utterly barred and excluded therefrom; And we do covenant with the sd Timothy Fuller his heirs and assigns to warrant secure and defend the above released Premises with all the Priviledges and appurtenances thereto belonging to him the sd Timothy Fuller, to his heirs and assigns forever, against ourselves, our heirs or any Person or Persons claiming by, from or under us or any of our heirs forever hereafter. 218 TIMOTHY5 FULLER

In Witness whereof we the sd Noah and Elizabeth have hereunto set our hands and seals this thirty-first day of March in the year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred and Three. Signed sealed and delivered Noah Claflin (S) in presence of us Elizabeth Claflin (S) Danl Carpenter Nathan Turner Bristol ss. Rehoboth April ye 12, 1803 Then Noah Claflin and Elizabeth Claflin Recd April 20, 1803 personally appeared and acknowledged the and recorded by above Instrument to be their free act and James Williams, Register. deed. B.C.Deeds 83:309 Before me Dani Carpenter Justice ofye Peace. (On June 10, 1784, Elizabeth had "heretofore conveyed to Benjamin Bullock" 6 acres 89 rods inherited from her father. B. C.Deeds 63: 31) 8. HANNAH FULLER TO HER BROTHER TIMOTHY FULLER Know all men by these Presents that I, Hannah Fuller of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, single woman, in consideration of one dollar paid by Timothy Fuller of the same Rehoboth, Yeoman, the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge, do by these presents remise, release and forever quit claim unto him the said Timothy Fuller and to his heirs and assigns forever, all my right, title, interest or claim I now have, ever had, or ought to have in or unto all that part of the Real Estate of my Honoured Father Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth aforesd, deceased, that he my said Father died seized of and that was divided to my Brother the above said Timothy Fuller, as also that part of the thirds afterwards divided and set off to the said Timothy Fuller, as also all other parts of the Real Estate of my said Honoured Father Timothy Fuller deceased, that I might or ought to have claim to in right of my mother Hannah Fuller former wife of my said father Timothy Fuller Deceased, excepting only that part of said Real Estate divided and set off to me the said Hannah Fuller in the division aforesaid. To have and to hold the above released premises etc .... In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty second day of October in the year of our Lord One Thousand eight hundred and three. Signed, sealed and delivered Hannah Fuller (S) in presence of us Daniel Carpenter Bristol ss. Rehoboth Oct. 22d, AD 1803 Otis Cole Then personally appeared Hannah Fuller signer to the above instrument and ack­ Recd April 15, 1806 nowledged the same to be her voluntary act and recorded by and deed. Before me James Williams, Register. Daniel Carpenter, Just. of Peace B.C.Deeds 86:80 TIMOTHY5 FULLER 219

9. HANNAH FULLER TO HER BROTHER TIMOTHY FULLER Know all men by these Presents that I, Hannah Fuller of Rehoboth ... single woman, in consideration of One hundred and thirty dollars lawful money paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth ... yeoman, the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge, do hereby give, grant, sell and convey unto the said Timothy Fuller and unto his heirs and assigns forever, a certain tract or parcel of land situate in said Rehoboth and contains by estimation six acres and one half an acre more or less, and is that five acres set off to me in the first division and that one acre and half adjoining said five acres, set off to me in the division of the thirds of my deceased fathers estate, ... bounded as followeth, viz: Bounded Easterly the highway running northerly from said Fullers house, Northerly and Westerly with land of Deacon Jacob Bliss, thence running southly with said Fullers till it comes to the south line of the orchard, thence easterly with said Fullers own land to the corner of the barn, thence running Northerly and Easterly with the said Fullers own land as aforesaid till it comes to the aforesaid highway. To have and to hold the afore granted premises etc .... In Witness whereof I, the said Hannah Fuller have set my hand and seal this twenty sixth day of November in the year of our Lord One Thousand eight Hundred and three. Signed, sealed and delivered Hannah Fuller (S) in presence of us Jacob Bliss Isaiah Allen Bristol ss. Rehoboth Nov. 26th, AD 1803 The above named Hannah Fuller personally Recd April 15, 1806 appeared and acknowledged the above in­ and recorded by strument to be her free act and deed. James Williams, Register. Before me Daniel Carpenter, Just. of Peace. B.C.Deeds 86:81

10. TIMOTHY FULLER TO HIS SISTER HANNAH FULLER Know all men by these Presents that I, Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth yeoman, in consideration of fifty dolJars in lawful money paid by Hannah Fuller of Rehoboth . . . singlewoman, ... convey to the said Hannah Fuller ... a certain tract or parcel of land situate in said Rehoboth and lyeth on the westerly side of the highway leading southerly from Benjamin Bullocks house, bounding as follows: Beginning at said Bullocks Southeast corner by said highway, thence in said Bullocks line North sixty-two degrees West 40 rods to said BulJocks Southerly corner, thence South twenty-eight degrees West 10 rods to Peter Hunts land, thence in his line South about sixty-two degrees East 40 rods to the aforesaid highway, thence Northerly by said highway 10 rods and about 4 feet to the first corner. Containing two acres and one half more or less. To have and to hold the afore granted premises etc .... 220 TIMOTHY5 FULLER

In Witness whereof I the said Timothy Fuller with Mary my wife in Testimony of giving up all dower or thirds in the above demised premises, have hereunto set our hands and seals this twenty-sixth day of November in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and Three. Signed, sealed and delivered in presence of us Timothy Fuller (S) Jacob Bliss Mary Fuller (S) Isaiah Allen Acknowledged before Daniel Carpenter, Recd April 15, 1806 Justice of Peace, November 26, 1803. and recorded by James Williams, Register. B.C.Deeds 86:81 NOTES ON THE MEDBURY FAMILY

John Medbury appears to have been the emigrant ancestor and to have settled in Swansea about 1680. Major Bradford's quit claim deed to the inhabitants of Swansea, dated July 23, 1689, includes the surname Medbury in the "first rank" column, but the given name is torn off. (Cf: Bowen's Early Rehoboth, Vol. I, p. 62). The Medburys were not among the early Rehoboth settlers, but some of John's descendants will be found in Rehoboth records. John Medbury's land was located on the northern side of Swansea and bounded by the southern line of Rehoboth. He died intestate April 27, 1694, and in the inventory of his estate this land was appraised at -I: 70, with a footnote saying that the land was the property of his widow Sarah before marriage. His personal property was valued at about -I: 115 (B. C. Probate I :92). The division of his estate dated October 15, 1694, gave widow Sarah all of the land and one third of the personal property. The remainder was divided among his four sons and two daughters then living. (B. C. Probate I: 107). The children of John' and Sarah Medbury are named in the Swansea vital records as follows: i. John, b. Nov. 13, 1680 ii. Benjamin (not recorded, but called second son in the division of his father's estate.) iii. Hannah, b. Sept. 9, 168 . iv. Mary, b. Aug. 26, 1685.-Died before 1694. v. THOMAS, b. Nov. 7, 1686 vi. Ebenezer, b. Nov. 7, 1686. Died May 12, 1689. TIMOTHY5 FULLER 221

vii. Sarah, b. April 27, 1689. viii. Nathaniel, b. Sept. 28, 1691. Second Generation: THOMAS2 MEDBURY, b. November 7, 1686. Died about 1778. m. Bethia ( ). Children of Thomas and Bethia Med bury:

1. Susannah, b. Sept. 28, 1714. ii. Sarah, b. Sept. 28, 1714. iii. John, b. Nov. I, 1715. m. Nov. 20, 1740, Ann Camp of Barrington, Mass. iv. EBENEZER, birth not recorded. (In the Rehoboth warrant for a town meeting to be held November 17, 1777, is included an article calling for a vote to prosecute in court John and Ebenezer Medbury "for not providing for and supporting their aged father Thomas Medbury." At the adjourned meeting held December I, 1777, it was voted to leave the matter to the discretion of the selectmen. (RTM 1:395). The matter was apparently taken to court where Thomas was adjudged non compos mentis and a conservator appointed to care for his rather considerable property. Thomas died about a year later.) Third Generation: EBENEZERJ MEDBURY, b. about I 720. d. ( ) ml May 12, 1751 Mary Ide, d2u. of Josiah and Mary Ide, in Warren, R.I. (R VR 3 :363) b. Jan. I, 1730/ 1. d. April 14, 1763. Children of Ebenezer and Mary (Ide) Medbury. All born in Rehoboth (R VR 3:36)

1. James, b. Nov. 15, 1751. Died in infancy. 11. Josiah, b. Sept. 6, 1754. 111. Ebenezer, b. Sept. 8, 1757. Died Jan. 24, 1825. 1v. Abel, b. Feb. 3, 1761. v. MARY (Molly), b. Mar. 31, 1763". m. May 12, 1791, TIMOTHYS FULLER. d. Feb. 20, 1821. Ebenezer3 m2 Dec. 18, 1764, Hannah Walker. CHAPTER VII

TIMOTHY6 FULLER 1799 - 1866

Timothy6 born November 15, 1799 in the little house on Rocky Hill Road, was the fourth and last child of TimothyS and Molly. His mother, three older sisters and a maiden aunt were largely responsible for his upbringing, as his father died December 1, 1809, when Timothy was only ten years old. Management and operation of the farm was then added to the household duties of the women folks until Timothy was old enough to take over. The farm appears to have yielded only a very modest living when TimothyS was running it, and now mother Molly certainly faced real problems in keeping her family supplied with bare necessities. As the children became older and assumed more responsibility, things would have been easier for Molly, and should have resulted in better living for all. Mother Molly died February 20, 1821 in her 58th year. None of her children had yet been married. At that time the household consisted of Timothy, his three sisters, and Aunt Hannah, then in her 80th year. Division of Family Homestead Just a few weeks after their mother died, Timothy and his three sisters drew up and signed an agreement dividing all of the land and buildings among themselves. This agreement, dated March 29, 1821, and quoted in full later in this chapter, is unique in the family history. It was a business-like and practical document to avoid future misunderstandings. The three girls shared the new part of the house which had been given to mother Molly as part of her dower third on April 2, 1810. Timothy took the east end, or original part, of the house. The land was divided into four parcels as shown on the accompanying map. Aunt Hannah is not mentioned in this agreement, although in the division of her step-mother Elizabeth's dowry on June 1, 1801, she had been given the north room in the 222 TIMOTHY6 FULLER 223 original part of the house, a small piece of land, and some apple trees in the orchard. She probably had a verbal agreement with Timothy and his sisters to remain undisturbed. Timothy Marries Timothy had been courting Olive Horton, a dark-eyed girl six years his junior, who lived in Rehoboth near the Swansea line. She evidently agreed to his proposal, as on March 6, 1824, marriage intentions were filed: Between Mr Timothy Fuller and Miss Olive Horton, both of Rehoboth. On March 24, 1824, they were married by the Baptist minister, Rev. Thomas Perry. They doubtless settled at once in the east half of the Rocky Hill Road farm house. Sister Hannah Marries A few months later, on July 18, 1824, another wedding took place in the family, when youngest sister Hannah married her second cousin Ezra Fuller. His farm was on the present Summer street on the western side of town. Timothy Serves in Militia On April 23, 1825, Timothy was commissioned Ensign in the Rehoboth militia. (1st Regiment, 2d Brigade, 5th Division) There were four militia companies in Rehoboth at that time, and weekly drilling was required. The regiment was disbanded April 24, 1840, after having been in existence for 150 years. ( a) Timothy and Olive's Children Timothy and Olive had a large family of eleven children. The first born was named Jason Walker, the earliest Fuller in this lineage to have two given names. All of the other children, except Amos, were given middle names. Most of their names seem to have no precedent in the Fuller family. Timothy's maternal grandmother was Mary Ide Med bury, Olive had an uncle, Israel Corne!, who lived in Swansea, and one of her brothers had been named after him. Candace Emily was the given name of Timothy Bullock's oldest daughter who died young. The Bullocks were next door neighbors. Other names may

(a) Cf: Tilton, History of Rehoboth, p. 151. 224 TIMOTHY6 FULLER have been Horton family names, or they may si_mply have been names that Olive liked. In any event, she created a whole family of new names for the Fullers. Their children are recorded in Rehoboth Vital Records, Book 5, pages 43 and 69. The Children of Timothy Fuller and his wife Olive, who before marriage was Olive Horton, recorded as follows-- Jason Walker Fuller, born June 22, 1825 Amos Fuller, born October6, I 826 Alonzo Fitzerland Fuller, born Oct. 30, 1827 Caroline Eliza Fuller, born February 20, 1829 Mary Ide Fuller, born February 1, I 831 Israel Cornet Fuller, born April 23, l 832 HIRAM DEXTER FULLER, born July 10, 1835 Emeline Frances Fuller, born Sept. 24, 1836 George Edwin Fuller, born November 15, 1839 Horace Newton Fuller, born July 12, 1841 Candace Emily Fuller, born July 24, 1843

Changes in the Household As the number of young occupants of the household was increasing, other changes were taking place. In 1827, Aunt Hannah died at age 85. She was probably buried in the Village Cemetery, but there is no stone to mark her grave. In 1831, sister Huldah married Jacob Goff. She was then 39 years old. They had one child, a daughter named Sarah. Huldah died May 3, 1836. Jacob and his young daughter Sarah continued to live in the west end of the house for a few more years. The last to marry was sister Polly. She was also 39 years old when, on February 2, 1834, she married William Adams who had a farm on the southern slope of Great Rock Hill, about two miles from Timothy's house on Rocky Hill Road. Timothy Occupies Entire House In 1838, Jacob Goff bought his sister-in-law Hannah's one-third right in the west end of the house for $20.00. (B.C. Deeds 168: 153) This then gave Jacob two-thirds interest as he also held his wife Huldah's third. He had married again and presumably continued to live in the west end of the house. However, sometime before he and his second wife, Sarah Ann, signed the quit claim deed of April 8, 1843, they had moved to Seekonk. This deed released their interest in two-thirds of the west end of the house to Timothy for $50.00. TIMOTHY6 FULLER 225

The remaining one-third interest, which was Polly's, is unaccounted for. Timothy and his large family now took over the entire house just about the time their last child, Candace Emily, was born. They certainly needed it to house their assortment of active boys and girls. The older boys probably took the attic rooms. The west room in the attic, with its fireplace could be kept comparatively warm in the cold weather. It would be interesting to know just how Timothy and Olive distributed their eleven children, and which room they kept for themselves.

School for the Rocky Hill Children There were other problems in additiqn to housing, not the least of which was to provide clothing suitable for attending school. The nearest school was Bliss No. 5, about I½ miles distant on the present Homestead avenue. The children of Timothy Fuller, and those of their neighbor Timothy Bullock, made a sizeable group as they followed Rocky Hill Road north to the schoolhouse. Quality and quantity of education had improved from one generation to the next, but the town still depended on the district school system. Whether all of Timothy's children finished the grades and graduated is not recorded. It does not appear that any of them went on for higher education, other than to learn a trade. Boys no longer felt the necessity of following in their father's occupation of farming. Of Timothy's boys, only Jason became a farmer. Amos, Alonzo, Israel, and Hiram learned a mechanic's trade, and George became a preacher.

Industries Develop in Massachusetts The boys of this generation had many opportunities not available to preceeding generations. These were prosperous years for Massachusetts, as the development and use of machinery in the textile industry, after about 1815, caused this industry to expand rapidly. Woolen was added to cotton manufacturing, and Boston became the largest wool market. Growth of industry in general spread to all of the New England states, but was greatest in Massachusetts where water power was plentiful. In 1828 the Massachusetts legislature voted for a protective tariff which gave manufacturing interests an advantage over commercial and agricultural fields. 226 TIMOTHY6 FULLER

Opening of the Erie Canal in 1825 brought grain cheaply from the west, and ruined the local markets. Farmers migrated westward, or moved into industrial centers. As Timothy was not a grain farmer, he could not have been materially affected by this change in agricultural economy. A report made in 1856 stated that there were 12,135 apple trees in Rehoboth, producing a crop which sold for $3,850.00 that year. We have no way of knowing how much of this production was Timothy's. This was also the beginning of the railroad era. In 1835, Boston became a railroad center, with lines to Lowell and Providence. Many basic inventions were being perfected: photography by Daguerre in 1839; Morse's telegraph in 1844; Howe's sewing machine in 1846; the Corliss steam engine in 1849, to mention only a few. Although these developments did not affect Timothy's lifetime activity, they had their influence on his children. Rehoboth was not destined to become an industrial town, although there were a few small enterprises. Ultimately all of Timothy's boys, except Jason, left town and sought employment elsewhere. Jason chose to be a farmer and remained in Rehoboth.

After his Children Marry Timothy Builds a New House The first of Timothy's children to marry was Alonzo, in July 1849. He was followed by Jason in October of that year, and from then on to 1860 there was a series of family weddings, and one by one the children left the old homestead. Timothy and Olive realized that ultimately they would be left alone in the old house, and apparently were making early plans to build a new one in a more favorable location. In January 1855, Timothy had purchased eight acres from Royal Drown and also 13 acres adjacent from William Hunt, paying a total of $700. for this land. It was located at the corner of the present Pine street and Hillside avenue. It is on the southern slope of Great Rock Hill at an elevation of about 190 feet. This land was adjacent to the farm of William Adams, who had married Timothy's sister Polly. The new house and barn on Hillside avenue must have been built sometime prior to March 9, 1861, as on that date Timothy and Olive sold the old farm and 29 acres to Thomas Cole for $1,000. All of their children appear to have left home before the old farm was sold, and Timothy and Olive were alone in their new house. TIMOTHY6 FULLER 227

Olive's Death They had lived in their new home only about three years when Olive died, on April 6, 1864. The town record says she died of heart disease. The forty years of her married life had been busy ones. She had seen nine of her eleven children grow to adulthood, and had lived to see at least twelve of her grandchildren. The loss of his beloved Olive was the deepest sorrow of Timothy's life. In her memory he erected a simple but outstanding white marble monument, nine and one-half feet high. Under Olive's inscription on the front of the stone is engraved, "Meet me in Heaven." The family lot is about 18 feet square, and is in the Village Cemetery. Candace and Horace are also buried there, and each grave has a white marble marker. Birth and death dates are inscribed on the monument. Timothy Marries Again Olive had been dead less than one year when, on February 5, 1865, Timothy married Ellen Taylor in Rehoboth. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Gardner Clark, a Baptist minister living in Attleboro. Intentions had been filed just the previous day. According to the Rehoboth record, Ellen was 43 years old and had been born in England, the daughter of George and Elizabeth Taylor. It was her second marriage, and we assume from the record that she had taken her maiden name. She appears to have been living in Rehoboth at the time of marriage. She may have been a nurse or a housekeeper who 228 TIMOTHY6 FULLER took care of Olive. Timothy himself was not in good health, and with all his children gone, he may have seized an opportunity to have someone to care for him. That he was ill seems to be definitely indicated by the size of Dr. Hammond's bill ('.583.50) which was paid by Timothy's estate. The marriage with Ellen was not a happy one, probably through no fault of hers. If Timothy's physical condition was as serious as we think it was, no one could have pleased him very long. Tradition has implied that after a few months, Timothy gave her a sizeable sum of money and told her to get out of his house. Whatever the actual details may have been, Timothy was unhappy and unwell. His next move was to sell his new home and all of the land to George W. Gifford for S2,500. This deed is dated September 18, 1866, and was co-signed by Ellen Fuller, who released her dower rights 111 the property. She was living in Pawtucket again at that time. Timothy Takes His Own life We don't know where Timothy went to live after selling his new house. His daughters Caroline (Bullock) and Mary (Medbery) were settled in Rehoboth nearby, and either one would have been the logical person to take care of Timothy, especially if he was sick enough to need a doctor. But he didn't want to live anywhere any longer, as on Sunday, December 2, 1866, he committed suicide. The vital record book for 1859 - I 916, page 11, under Deaths: Timothy Fuller, at Rehoboth, Mass., Dec. 2, 1866, aged 66 years, by suicide. Male, married, farmer, born Rehoboth of Timothy and Molly. Interred Rehoboth. Informant, E. Goff. Registered Jan. 10, 1867. No further details have been found concerning the last year or two of his life. He was buried beside Olive in the family lot. No subsequent burials have been made in this lot, which is currently well cared for. In the lot adjacent to Timothy's, is buried his sister Huldah Goff. Adjacent to Huldah 's lot is buried their sister Polly and her husband William Adams. Wars During Timothy's lijetirne Timothy lived through the formative decades of the new nation and through the years of Civil War. There were, in his lifetime, three wars which had varying effects on the people. The war of 1812 with England was opposed by the people of Massachusetts, and they participated only half-heartedly. The Mexican war of 1846 - 48 was TIMOTHY6 FULLER 229 also unpopular in Massachusetts, and the people were not in favor of annexing . The Civil War, on the other hand, was vigorously supported in Massachusetts. Timothy was too old then for active military service, but two of his boys enlisted. George, at age 22, was mustered October 29, 1861 into Company F, 1st R.I. Light Artillery. He was wounded at Berne, N.C., taken prisoner, exchanged, and discharged for disability on September 1, 1862. Jason also enlisted, even though he was married and had three young children. He was a waggoner in Company H, 3rd Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteers, and was discharged March 29, 1863 for disability. The other boys do not appear to have war records.

First Family Photographs Timothy's was the first generation to have photographs taken. The print from which the reproduction of Timothy was made is not very sharp in detail, but obviously he was not a very handsome ancestor, at least when the picture was taken. He was about 60 years old when he ventured into the photographer's studio in Boston. Olive's picture may have been taken at about the same time, but by a different photographer in Boston. The photos of Timothy and Olive's children were apparently taken at various times. We have no likeness of Amos nor of Candace and Horace who died young.

TIMOTHY'S ESTATE Timothy left no will, but his estate was solvent and settled rather easily, in just one year, by Gilbert D. Bullock, his son-in-law and former neighbor at Rocky Hill Road. The original legal documents of the probate proceedings are filed at Bristol County Registry of Probate in an envelope labeled "Timothy Fuller - Rehoboth - 1866". There are six papers, all printed forms, with blanks filled in by longhand. They are signed as required by the participants, including signatures of each of Timothy's eight living children and his wife Ellen. These documents are copied in summary form in the Probate Copy Books No. 167 and No. 196. In chronological sequence, the several actions involved are briefed as follows: Dec. 7, 1866. Gilbert D. Bullock petitions the Court for appointment as Administrator of the estate of Timothy Fuller, late of Rehoboth, deceased. This document is signed by each of the heirs giving their unanimous approval. On the same date it is approved by Judge Edmund H. Bennett. 230 TIMOTHY6 FULLER

TIMOTHY and OLIVE FULLER and CHILDREN

2

4

9

1. Timothy Fuller, 1799-1866 6. Mary Ide (Fuller) Medbery, 1831- 2. Olive (Horton) Fuller, 1806-1864 7. Israel Corne! Fuller, 1832- 3. Jason Walker Fuller, 1825-1896 8. Hiram Dexter Fuller, 1835-1891 4. Alonzo Fitzerland Fuller, 1827-1886 9. EmelineFrances(Fuller)Keene,1836-1913 5. Caroline Eliza (Fuller) Bullock, 1829-189:; 10. George Edwin Fuller, 1839-1889 ( Photos not available of Amos, 1826 - 1865; Horace, 1841 - 1845; Candace, 1843 - 1843.) TIMOTHY6 FULLER 231

Dec. 7, 1866. Bond is posted for $5000, covering Gilbert D. Bullock as Administrator and co-signers Timothy Bullock and George W. Bliss. Jan. 3, 1867. Geo. H. Carpenter, Geo. W. Bliss, and Hale S. Luther are appointed by Judge Bennett to appraise the estate and effects of Timothy Fuller, deceased, and to deliver their appraisal to Gilbert D. Bullock, Administrator. Jan. 30, 1867. Appraisal is submitted by the Administrator to Probate Court and allowed by Judge Bennett. It is in two parts, Personal Estate and Real Estate. Inventory of Timothy6 Fuller Estate Schedule of Personal Estate: Note signed by Geo. G. Gifford 1/66 $1,522.50 Amount deposited in Franklin Institution of Savings by said Fuller 1,300.00 Note signed by Geo. H. Goff 55.55 Note signed by S. H. Viall 31.65 Note signed by H. D. Fuller 18.00 Account against E. F. Cushing 19.09 Account against G.D. Bullock 17.29 Account against Geo. H. Goff 5.49 Amount $2,969.57 Schedule of Real Estate: About 18 acres of pasture land $ 200.00 About 15 acres of woodland 425.00 amt $ 625.00

Disposal of Real Estate The 33 acres listed in the inventory were released to all of the children (except Jason) by widow Ellen with a quit claim deed dated January 11, 1867. This was the land purchased by Timothy from Joseph Carpenter and Enoch Fowler for $275 under deed dated March I 0, 1827. Jason did not participate in selling this real estate. The other children disposed of it by direct sale. First they committed a parcel of woodland (2 acres 17 rods) to brother Hiram in a deed signed May 25, 1867. This brought the remaining land to 31 acres 28 rods, of which 1/9th part was sold by auction to brother Israel, the highest bidder, for $25. This was the 1/9 share of Amos' children, and the deed of March 21, 1867 was signed by Ira A. Medbery as Guardian. The entire 31 acres (more or less) was then sold in two parcels: 6 acres 64 rods of woodland to Noah Fuller by deed of December 2, 1867, for $104.00; and 24 acres 70 rods to John 232 TIMOTHY6 FULLER

McCormick by deed of December 2, 1867, for $272.00. The five deeds are briefed later in this chapter. These sales of real estate gave the heirs a total of $418.12 (less any expenses) to be divided into nine shares, including two for Israel. Each share would be worth about $46 and the money apparently was distributed without going on Probate records.

Appraisal of Personal Effects George W. Bliss, Hale S. Luther, and Thomas Cole were appointed by Judge Bennett to appraise the personal effects of Timothy. They filed the following inventory May 20, 1867:

one Rocking chair $ 1.00 one Feather Bed 8.00 one Feather Bed 2.00 one Straw Bed 1.00 two pillows @ $1.00 per 2.00 five Comforters@ 7St per 3.75 one bed quilt 1.00 one bed do 1.50 one spread .50 six cane seat chairs 3.75 one stool chair .75 six Black chairs 1.80 one cane seat chair .15 one Bed Stead and Cord 1.50 one Bed Stead 1.00 one basket of books .so one table 1.00 one chest .50 lot of crockery 3.00 one set knives & forks .75 one small stand .33 one air tight stove 3.00 one Bureau 3.00 Eight sheets 6.00 six pillow cases 1.00 one counterpaine 3.00 two bed ballances .50 two stands covers .25 three table covers .75 two tubs & bench .so TOTAL $53.78 TIMOTHY6 FULLER 233

From the above list which is for household furniture and equipment, it appears that Timothy had disposed of his farm tools and his horse and other live stock. Final Accounting of Timothy's Estate The first and final account was submitted to Probate Court on December 6, 1867. The account was signed by all of the children except Jason, nor was it signed by widow Ellen. It is highly probable that Jason was not in agreement with paying widow Ellen the sum of $1,000, although it was legally her right to have one-third of the estate. The details of settlement recorded as follows: Schedule A. Amount of Personal Estate according to inventory $3,021.19 Cash received as interest on G. W. Gifford's note 28.00 Cash received as interest on Bank note 4.00 $3,053.19 Schedule B. Amount paid out and charges: pd D. C. Carpenter as Sexton $ 7.80 pd Dr. John A. Hammonds account 83.50 pd S. R. Lincoln for Grave Stone 13.00 pd Revenue Tax 20.80 pd Revenue Stamps 4.24 pd Appraisers 4.13 pd Ira A. Medburys act. 18.66 pd Ellen Fuller, widow of Said deceased, her share of Personal Estate as per receipt 1,000.00 pd The heirs of said deceased the ballance of personal Estate 1,850.50 pd My services & Expenses as Administrator 50.56 $3,053.19 With two shares for Jason as the oldest son, there would be ten shares for the children. This would give Jason $371 and the other would have $185 .50 each. The accounting was approved and allowed by Judge Bennett on December 6, 1867, and the estate was closed. DIVISION OF THE FULLER HOMESTEAD, March 29, 1821 AGREEMENT - between TIMOTHY6 FULLER and his sisters HULDAH, POLLY, and HANNAH - on the division of the homestead and lands inherited from their father Timothy5 shortly after the decease of their mother Molly who had died February 20, 1821. 234 TIMOTHY6 FULLER

This Indenture of four parts made and concluded the 29th day of March 1821 by and between Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth, County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts of one part, Huldah Fuller of the town, County and Commonwealth aforesaid of another part, Polly Fuller of the town, County and Commonwealth aforesaid of another part, and Hannah Fuller of the town, County and Commonwealth of the other part: witnesseth that whereas the said Timothy Fuller, Huldah Fuller, Polly Fuller, and Hannah Fuller are seized in fee simple and have and hold as tenants in common in equal shares the following described real estate it being the estate that was left them by their Honored Father Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth, deceased, and is bounded as follows: Beginning at the highway at the corner of Benjamin Bullock's land thence west six degrees north 15 rods to a corner, thence south thirteen degrees west 24 rods and 13 feet to a corner, thence west twenty-three and one half degrees north 12 rods to a corner, thence north three and one half degrees east 15 rods to a corner, thence west fourteen degrees north 6 rods 4 feet to a corner, thence north eleven degrees east 16 rods 10 feet to a corner, thence west 12 rods to a corner, thence west forty-seven degrees south 17 rods to a heap of stones on a rock for a corner, thence south two degrees west 28 rods to a turn, thence south twenty-eight degrees west 10 rods to a corner in the line of Peter Hunt's woodland, thence west twenty-eight degrees north 52 rods to a heap of stones for a corner, thence north twenty degrees east 12 rods to a stake and stones for a corner, thence west ten degrees north 10½ rods to a heap of stones, thence north nine degrees west 71 rods to an old Beach tree with stones at the foot for a corner, thence east fourteen and one half degrees north 19 rods to a large white oak stump for a turn, thence north forty-five degrees east 12 rods to a heap of stones for a corner, thence south forty-three rods ten feet to a heap of stones for a corner, thence east seventeen degrees south 19 rods to a corner, thence north fifteen and one half degrees east 10 rods to a corner, thence east seventeen and one half degrees south 41 rods to a stake for a corner, thence north nine degrees east 15 rods 6 feet to a corner, thence east three degrees north 28 rods to the highway, thence by said highway south ten and one half degrees east 56 rods to the first mentioned corner. Whereas said parties have concluded to hold and enjoy their respective parts thereof severally It is therefore covenanted, granted and agreed by and between all and every of the said parties for himself and herself and for his and their heirs, executors and administrators and they do hereby severally and respectively covenant, grant and agree to and with the others their several and respective heirs and assigns that a partition of the same shall be and is hereby made and determined in the manner following, that is to say, that he the said Timothy Fuller his heirs and assigns shall and may from henceforth have, hold, posess and enjoy in severally the following described real estate: Beginning in the line of the highway in the center of the Barway by the house thence west 4 rods 3 feet until it comes opposite of the south door 11 feet from TIMOTHY6 FULLER 235 the same, thence northerly through the center of said door and chimney until it comes to the old room on the north side of said house, thence by the south and west side of said room leaving said room with the east part of the house and from said house in a line with the west side of said room 8 feet from a corner, thence west 5 rods 2 feet to the east end of said barn, thence through said barn 22 feet to the west end, thence west 51 rods to a heap of stones in a meadow for a corner, thence north twenty and one half degrees west 29 rods to a corner in the line of Benjamin Bullock's land, thence east seventeen and one half degrees south 34 rods to a stake for a corner, thence north nine degrees east 15 rods 6 feet to a corner, thence east three degrees north 28 rods to the highway, thence by said way to the first mentioned corner. ALSO one piece of woodland bounded as follows: Beginning at the southeast corner of land this day set to Hannah Fuller in the line of Capt. Asa Bliss's land, thence east four degrees north 15 rods 6 feet, thence east two degrees south 19 rods and 5 feet to a heap of stones by the side of Wolf pond (so called), thence northerly by said pond until it comes to woodland belonging to the incorporated Catholic Congregational Church and Society in the second precinct in Rehoboth, thence west three degrees south 32 rods to land this day set to Hannah Fuller, thence south three degrees east 14 rods and four feet to the first mentioned corner, TOGETHER WITH- the east half of the house as the line heretofore described runs through and the north half of the hay barn and the west half of the corn barn with a privilege to pass and repass to and from his buildings to improve or repair the same, as also a privilege to the well for water. 2d That Hannah Fuller her heirs and assigns shall and may from henceforth have, hold, possess and enjoy in severalty the following described real estate bounded as follows: Beginning in the line of the highway in the center of the barway at the southeast corner of the land this day set to Timothy Fuller and running westerly with said Timothy Fuller's south line through the house and barn until it comes to his south west corner at a heap of stones in the meadow, thence south twenty and one half degrees east 15 rods 12 feet to a heap of stones on a rock for a corner, thence east forty degrees north 16 rods 12 feet to a corner, thence east 12 rods to a corner, thence south eleven degrees west 16 rods 14 links to a corner, thence east fourteen degrees south 6 rods and 6 links to a corner, thence sou th three and one half degrees west 15 rods to a corner, thence east twenty-three and one half degrees south 12 rods to a corner, thence north thirteen degrees east 24 rods and 19 links to a corner, thence east six degrees south 15 rods to the highway, thence north ten and one half degrees west 17 rods to the first mentioned corner. ALSO one piece of woodland bounded as follows: Beginning at the highway at the corner of Capt. Asa Bliss's land thence east four degrees north 24 rods and ten feet to a heap of stones by the north side of the wall for a corner, thence north three degrees west 14 rods to a heap of stones 236 TIMOTHY6 FULLER for a corner, thence west three degrees south 22 rods to a heap of stones for a corner by the side of the highway, thence south five and one half degrees west 14 rods 15 links to the first corner. 3d That the said Huldah Fuller her heirs and assigns shall and may from henceforth have hold posess and enjoy in severalty the following described real estate bounded as follows: Beginning at a heap of stones on a rock at the southwest corner of land set to Hannah Fuller, thence south two degrees west 28 rods to a corner, thence south twenty-eight degrees west 10 rods to a corner in the line of Peter Hunt's woodland, thence west twenty-eight degrees north 52 rods to a heap of stones for a corner, thence north twenty degrees east 12 rods to a corner, thence west ten degrees north 1O½ rods to a corner, thence north nine degrees west 20 rods to a heap of stones at the foot of an oak tree, thence east seven and one half degrees south 57 rods to a heap of stones in a meadow for a corner, thence south twenty and one half degrees east 15 rods 12 feet to the first mentioned corner. 4 That the said Polly Fuller her heirs and assigns shall and may from henceforth have hold and possess and enjoy in severalty the following described real estate bounded as follows: Beginning at a heap of stones in a meadow which is the corner of Timothy Fuller's, Huldah Fuller's, and Hannah Fuller's land this day set to them, thence west seven and one half degrees north 5 7 rods to a heap of stones for a corner, thence north 9 degrees west 51 rods to an old beech tree for a corner, thence east fourteen degrees north 19 rods to a large white oak stump for a corner, thence north forty-five degrees east 12 rods to a corner, thence south 43 rods 15 links to a corner, thence east seventeen degrees south 19 rods to a corner, thence north fifteen and one half degrees east 10 rods to a corner, thence east seventeen and one half degrees south 7 rods to a corner, thence south twenty and one half degrees east 29 rods to the first corner, and the said Huldah Fuller, Polly Fuller and Hannah Fuller to have and to hold the west half of the house and the south half of the hay barn and the east half of the corn house equal and undivided with a privilege to pass to and from the same to repair and improve the same with a privilege to bake in the kitchen, with a privilege to pass up and down stairs to the cellar and chambers, and the said Huldah and Polly Fuller are to have a privilege to the well for water and to each of the said parties his or her heirs and assigns forever the other three for themselves their heirs, executors, administrators respectfully do by these presents grant release and confirm the heretofore described real estate set off to him or her as aforesaid as and for his or her full share part and proportion in and to the said real estate. To have and to hold the same with all the privileges and appurtanences thereof to him and his or her heirs assigns forever in severalty as aforesaid and to his or her or their only use and behoof forever, and with each of the said parties his or her heirs executors and administrators covenant and grant that he or she shall and may henceforth forever peaceably and quietly have hold use occupy possess and enjoy the same free and discharged of all right title TIMOTHY6 FULLER 237 interest claim and demand whatsoever of them or either o·f them of their heirs or assigns or of any person or persons claiming from by or under them or any of them. In witness whereof the said Timothy Fuller, Huldah Fuller, Polly Fuller, and Hannah Fuller have hereunto interchangably set their hands and seals the day and year above written. Timothy Fuller (S) Signed sealed and delivered in presence of us Huldah Fuller (S) Hannah Fuller David Perry Polly Fuller (S)

Hannah Fuller (S) Bristol ss: May 4, 1821 then the above named Timothy Fuller, Huldah Fuller, Polly Fuller, Hannah Fuller personally appeared and acknowledged the above and foregoing Received May 23d, 1829 and recorded by Alfred Williams, instrument to be his free act and deed. Register. Before me, David Perry, Justice of the Peace B.C. Deeds 127:45

TIMOTHY6 - LAND TRANSACTIONS Over a period of thirty years, Timothy6 purchased a total of 104 acres, mostly woodland in the Wolf Plain area. He inherited about 13 acres from his father's estate. He sold a total of 84 acres. The inventory of his estate included 18 acres of pasture land and 15 acres of woodland. His first recorded land purchases are two parcels of woodland which he purchased jointly with Noah Bliss. The first tract of ten acres was deeded January 18, 1823 by Seba Kent of Seekonk for $230. A second tract, also of ten acres and adjoining the first one, was deeded November 12, 1823 by Benjamin and Cynthia Day of Concord, N.Y., for $121.50. On March 20, 1824, by quitclaim deed, Timothy sold his equity in these two lots to Noah Bliss for $75. There is nothing to indicate why this joint ownership had been necessary nor what Timothy expected to gain by the transaction. The deeds involving Timothy are quoted later in this section. Some will be quoted in full, and others will be briefed by giving the essential details. The quaintness and originality of deeds drawn in earlier generations had been replaced by almost standardized wording and use of printed forms. At this time the copy books at the Registry T1MOTHY 5 rULLER ESTATE

DIVISION MADE MARCH 29,1821 BY HIS FOUR CHILDREN.

On March rs, raG1, 77Mornv6 deeded all of the land, except Huldoh's, and buildings, to Thomas Cole for $1,000.

J II) It {/) <"') ~ Benj Bullock land

w .J 0 0\ -0 0\ It C \ 0: z It) LU ..E \ _J .!/l _J :,t;. POLLY'S shore \ :::, 0 ~ sold to Timothy6 March 1824 \ u. 6 \ MOTHY (0 cu 1i share <.. >- >-. \ :r: u - - - __ W 7'! • N \ I- -57R------L ______H:;• 0 HOLMES ST. ~ I- w HANNAH'S share JV sold to Timothy6Mar. 1829 HULDAH's share /SR

co M N TIMOTHY6 FULLER 239 of Deeds were still being written in longhand, but the handwriting of this era is usually excellent and easy to read. Following his father's example, Timothy6 gained possession of most of the homestead land by buying the shares of his sisters. He paid Polly and Hannah $200 each for their respective shares in the land division made March 29, 1821. These deeds, however, did not include their share of the west end of the dwelling house. Huldah kept her share of the land, and it became the property of her husband, Jacob Goff, after she died in 1836. Ultimately Timothy owned all of the land except this piece of Huldah's, and all of the house. He sold the old homestead with 29 acres of land to Thomas Cole, a mechanic from Attleborough, in 1861, approximately I 25 years after his grandfather Timothy4 built the house.

SUMMARY OF DEEDS RECORDED AT BRISTOL COUNTY REGISTRY OF DEEDS, TAUNTON Book:page:date 1. I 15:26 Seba Kent of Seekonk to Noah Bliss and Jan. 18, 1823 Timothy Fuller - 10 acres of woodland $ 230.00 2. 115:25 Benj. Day et ux, of Concord, N.Y., to Nov. 12, 1823 Noah Bliss & Timothy Fuller - 10 a. woodland ...... $ 121.50 3. 127:49 Polly Fuller to Timothy, 12 acres and Mar. 6, 1824 her right in the hay barn and corn house $ 200.00

4. 116:275 Timothy Fuller to Noah Bliss, his equity Mar. 20, 1824 in items No. 1 and No. 2 above. 20 acres $ 75.00

5. 121 :171 Wooster Carpenter to Timothy Fuller 9 Apr. 4, 1825 acres 50 rods woodland ...... $ 130.00 6. 121:172 Joseph Carpenter & E. Fowler to Mar. 10, 1827 Timothy, 33 acres 45 rods on Rocky Hill ...... · .. · · · · · · · · · · $ 275.00 7. 127:47 Ezra and Hannah Fuller to Timothy, 6 a. Mar. 24, 1829 140 rods and her right in hay barn .... $ 200.00 8. 155 :360 Timothy to Polly Fuller, 9 a. 50 rods of Jan.30, 1832 woodland. (Item 5 above) ...... $ 90.00 9. 162:25 Nancy L. Brayton of No. Providence, Feb. 4, 1840 R.I. to Timothy, 6 a. 120 rods imp. land $ 67.00 10. 163:219 Nancy L. Brayton to Timothy, IO a. 58 Apr. 7, 1841 rods of woodland on Rocky Hill ...... $ 260.35 240 Tl MOTHY6 FULLER

11. 171:72 Abel Shorey et ux et ali, to Timothy, 2 Mar. 19, 1843 acres of woodland ...... $ 27.50 12. 168:152 Jacob and Sarah Ann Goff to Timothy, Apr. 8, 1843 quitclaim to his first wife's (Hannah) share in the Rocky Hill house ...... $ 50.00 13. 177:32 Ezra and Hannah Fuller to Timothy, 2 Sept. 1, 1845 acres of woodland ...... $ 45.00 14. 222:392 Royal F. Drown to Timothy, 8 acres on Jan. 1, 1855 south side of Great Rock Hili ...... $ 200.00 15. 222:393 William D. Hunt to Timothy, 13 a. 100 Jan. 3, 1855 rods adjacent to Item 14 ...... $ 500.00 16. 223:19 Timothy Fuller to George G. Brown, 6 Mar. 30, 1855 acres 120 rods (Item 9 above) ...... $ 125.00 17. 229: 163 Timothy Fuller to Hiram D. Fuller, 2 Oct. 18, 1855 acres woodland (Item 11 above) ...... $ 75.00 18. 242:39 Timothy to George H. Goff, 10 a. 58 Apr. 13, 1857 rods of woodland (Item 10 above) .... $ 180.00 19. 258:263 Timothy to Thomas Cole of Mar. 9, 1861 Attleborough, 29 acres, Rocky Hill house and barns ...... $1000.00 20. 276:82 Timothy to Hiram D. Fuller, 4 a. 140 Dec. 27, 1864 rods of woodland. (Includes Item 13 above) ...... $ 225.00 21. 285:204 Timothy to Geo. W. Gifford of Bristol, Sept. 18, 1866 R.I., 22 acres and his new house and barn ...... $2500.00 22. 285:206 Mortgage deed covering Item 2 I in the Oct. 17, 1866 amount of $1500 at 6% interest. Paid in full and cancelled by Gilbert D. Bullock, Administrator, on September 12, 1867.

RECORDED DEEDS OF TIMOTHY6 FULLER I. SEBA KENT to NOAH BLISS & TIMOTHY FULLER Seba Kent of Seekonk, Mass., in consideration of $230.00 paid by Noah Bliss & Timothy Fuller, both of Rehoboth ... convey ... a certain tract or parcel of woodland lying in said Rehoboth at the northeast corner of Brush plain, so-called, being the northwesterly corner of Nathaniel Kent and contains ten acres, more or less ... bounded as follows: the first corner is in line of land of John Brown, being a corner of the land I sold to Remember Kent, now deceased, and runs by said Kent's land south 88 deg. west 57 rods to a stake and stones in line of Capt. Jonathan Carpenter, thence by said Carpenter north 3 deg. west 42 rods to a stump and stones for a corner, thence by said Carpenter north 85 deg. Tl MOTHY6 FULLER 241 east 34 rods 16 links to a stake, thence by land to Alfred Claflin south 30 rods to a stump, thence south 75 deg. east 15 rods 15 links to a stake, thence north 88 deg. east 9 rods 20 links, thence south 2 deg. east 12 rods to the first corner ... to have and to hold, etc. January 18, 1823 Seba Kent B.C.Deeds 115:26 Nabby Kent 2. BENJAMIN & CYNTHIA DAY to NOAH BLISS & TIMOTHY FULLER Benjamin Day & Cynthia Day of Concord, N.Y., in consideration of$121.50 paid by Noah Bliss & Timothy Fuller, both of Rehoboth, ... convey ... a certain tract of woodland lying in Rehoboth, containing ten acres, be it more or less, and is the same set off to the said Cynthia Day of her father's estate and is bounded as follows: easterly by lands of John Brown and Job Martin, west by Nathaniel Kent and Daniel Perrin, northerly by their own land which they purchased of Seba Kent, said lot of land was purchased by her father, Remember Kent, partly of Seba Kent and the remainder was owned by Sam! Brown ... to have and to hold, etc. November 12, 1823 Benjamin Day B.C.Deeds 115:25 Cynthia Day 3. POLLY FULLER to her brother TIMOTHY FULLER Polly Fuller of Rehoboth, Massachusetts, in consideration of $200.00 paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth, yeoman, convey . . . the following premises situated in Rehoboth and is part of what was set off to me in the division of my Hond Father's Estate, bounded ... beginning at a heap of stones in a meadow which is the corner of Timothy Fuller's, Huldah Fuller's, and Hannah Fuller's land set to them in the division of our Hand Father's Estate, thence west 7½ deg. north 57 rods, then north 9 deg. west 51 rods, then east 14 deg. north 19 rods, then north 45 deg. east 12 rods, then south 43 rods 15 links, then east 17 deg. south 19 rods, then north 15½ deg. east 10 rods, then east 17½ deg. south 7 rods, then south 20½ deg. east 29 rods to the first corner and contains 12 acres more or less, together with all the rights and privileges I have in the hay barn and corn house. To have and to hold, etc. March 6, 1824 Polly Fuller B.C.Deeds 127:49 4. TIMOTHY FULLER to NOAH BLISS Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth, yeoman, in consideration of $75.00 paid by Noah Bliss of Rehoboth, yeoman, ... forever quit claim ... to a certain piece of woodland situate in Rehoboth near Brush plain . . . being one half of an undivided 20 acre lot owned by said Fuller and Bliss ... bounded ... beginning at southwest corner, thence north 3 deg. west 70½ rods by land of Jonathan Carpenter, thence north 85 deg. east 34 rods 15 links, thence south 31 rods 15 links to a heap of stones for a corner, thence south 25 deg. east 15 rods 15 links to a turn, thence north 88 deg. east 9 rods 20 links, thence south 2 deg. east 40 242 TIMOTHY6 FULLER rods 20 links, thence south 88½ deg. west 57 rods to the first corner ... to have and to hold, etc. March 20, 1824 Timothy Fuller B. C. Deeds I 16:275

5. WOOSTER CARPENTER to TIMOTHY FULLER Know all men by these presents that I, Wooster Carpenter of Seekonk in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Gentleman, in consideration of one hundred and thirty dollars paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth in said County and Commonwealth, yeoman, ... convey ... a certain piece of woodland lying in Rehoboth aforesaid containing by estimation nine acres and fifty rods be the same more or less. Bounded as follows: beginning at a white oak stump and stones on the same being the southeast corner of Samuel Allens land, thence by Samuel Allens land north 61½ deg. west 48½ rods to a heap of stones being the corner of said Allens land, thence north 48 deg. west 8 rods to a heap of stones for a turn, thence southwesterly 2 rods to a heap of stones on a rock for a corner, thence south 2 deg. east 37 rods to a stake the same being a corner of Capt. John Rogersons land, thence by said Rogersons land south 57 deg. east 32½ rods to a heap of stones for a corner, thence north 33 deg. east 34½ rods to the first corner. Also reserving for Samuel Allen for the convenancy of drawing wood across the same. To have and to hold, etc .... April 4, 1825 Wooster Carpenter B. C.Deeds I 2 I: I 71 Lovin a Carpenter

6. JOSEPH CARPENTER & ENOCH FOWLER to TIMOTHY FULLER Know all men by these presents that we, Joseph Carpenter and Enoch Fowler both of Rehoboth ... yeomen, in consideration of $275.00 paid by Timothy Fuller of said Rehoboth, Gentleman, ... convey ... the following described lots or parcels of land situated in said Rehoboth on Rocky Hill so-called, containing by estimation 33 acres and 45 rods be the same more or less, bounded: beginning at a stone pitched in the ground the same being a corner of land belonging to the heirs of the late John Adams and in the line of land belonging to Abel Medbury, thence northerly and westerly by said heirs land about 104 rods to land belonging to the heirs of Jesse Newman, thence north 8 deg. east 45 rods to land belonging to the heirs of John Adams, thence east I 9 deg. southerly said heirs land and land of Amarah Allen 121 rods to Abel Blisses land, thence southerly by said Blisses land and land belonging to Abel Medbury to the first corner, for farther particulars reference may be had a deed to us by Daniel Willmarth and a deed given by us to Abel Medbury. To have and to hold, etc. Joseph Carpenter March IO, 1827 Enoch Fowler B.C.Deeds 121: 172 Nancy M. Carpenter Lydia Fowler TIMOTHY6 FULLER 243

7. EZRA & HANNAH FULLER to TIMOTHY FULLER Know all men by these presents that we, Ezra Fuller and my wife Hannah Fuller of the town of Rehoboth, County of Bristol, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, in consideration of two hundred dollars paid by Timothy Fuller of the abovesaid town County and Commonwealth, yeoman, the receipt whereof we do hereby acknowledge, do give, grant, sell and convey unto the said Timothy Fuller a piece of land situated in said Rehoboth on Rocky Hill (so called) and is part of the land that was set to me Hannah Fuller in the Division of my honored Father Timothy Fuller late of Rehoboth deceased estate and is bounded as followeth: Beginning at the highway at corner of Timothy Bullock's land West 6 degrees North 15 rods to a corner, thence South 13 degrees West 24 rods 19 links to a corner, thence West 23½ degrees North 12 rods to a corner, thence North 3½ degrees East 15 rods to a corner, thence West 14 degrees North 6 rods 6 links to a corner, thence North 11 degrees East 16 rods 14 links to a corner, thence West 12 rods to a turn, thence West 40 degrees South 17 rods 5 links to a corner by Huldah Fuller's land, thence North 20½ degrees West about 16 rods by Huldah's land to the corner of Polly and Timothy Fuller's land, thence easterly by said Timothy's land until it comes to land we sold to Huldah Fuller for a garden, thence southerly about one rod 12 feet to a corner, thence easterly by Huldah and Timothy's land to the road, then by said road southerly to the first corner. Containing six acres and 140 rods more or less, and our right in the hay barn and the corn crib. To have and to hold, etc. In witness whereof we the said Ezra and Hannah Fuller have hereunto set our hand and seal this 24th day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty nine. Signed sealed and delivered in presence of us Ezra Fuller (S) James Blanding Hannah Fuller (S) Nathaniel Fuller Bristol ss. March 25th, 1829. The above named Ezra Fuller and Hannah Fuller ac­ knowledged the foregoing instrument to be their free act and deed. Before me James Blanding Received and recorded May 23, 1829 Justice of the Peace. Alfred Williams, Register B.C.Deeds 127:47

Ezra Fuller and Hannah Fuller were second cousins: Ezra6 (Levi5, Ebenezer4, SAMUEL3 Samue!2, Robertl) Hannah6 (Timothy5, Timothy4, SAMUEL3, SamueJ2,Robertl) 244 TIMOTHY6 FULLER

8. TIMOTHY FULLER to his sister POLLY FULLER Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth, yeoman, in consideration of $90.00 paid by Polly Fuller of the abovesaid town, singlewoman, ... sell and convey ... a piece of woodland situated in Rehoboth and contains 9 acres and 50 rods, be the same more or less, and is bounded as follows: Beginning at a white oak stump and stones on the same at the Southeast corner of Samuel Allyns land then by said Samuel Allyns land north 61 degrees west 48½ rods to a heap of stones being the corner of said Samuel Allyns land, then north 48 degrees west 8 rods to a heap of stones for a tum, then southwesterly 2 rods to a heap of stones on a rock for a corner, then south 10 degrees east 37 rods to a stake the same being a corner of Capt John Rogersons land, then by said Rogersons land south 57 degrees east 32½ rods to a heap of stones for a corner, then north 33 degrees east 34½ rods to the first corner, reserving to Samuel Allyn the privilege of drawing wood across said lot. To have and to hold the aforegranted premises etc. January 30, 1832 Timothy Fuller B.C.Deeds 155:360 Olive Fuller 9. NANCY L. BRAYTON to TIMOTHY FULLER Nancy L. Brayton of North Providence, R.I., singlewoman, in consideration of $67.50 paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth, Mass., yeoman ... convey a piece of improved land situated on Rocky Hill so called, and is land set off to me in the division of my late grandfather Abel Medbury, late deceased estate, bounded ... beginning at a corner of Noah Bliss woodland and in the line of said Fullers land, then easterly partly by said Bliss land and the land of said Nancy as the wall now stands about 65 rods to a corner in the walls, then turning and running southerly by the stone wall 15 rods to a corner in said walls, then south 19 deg. west 21 rods 17 links to a corner, then 50 deg. 30' west 5 rods 15 links to a corner, then north 27 deg. east 14 rods to a turn, then north 19 deg. west 9 rods to a turn at the wall, then westerly by the wa!l 46 rods to a corner in the line of said Fullers land 16 rods to the first corner. Containing 6 acres 120 rods more or less ... To have and to hold, etc. February 4, 1840 Nancy L. Brayton. B.C. Deeds 162:25

10. NANCY L. BRAYTON to TIMOTHY FULLER Nancy L. Brayton of North Providence, R.I., singlewoman, in consideration of $260.35 paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth, Mass., yeoman, ... convey ... a tract of woodland situated on Rocky Hill so called, in Rehoboth, it being land formerly owned by Abel Medbury deceased, bounded . . . beginning at northwesterly corner of said lot, being a corner of Noah Bliss land, and in the line of land of Christopher Carpenter, thence south 70 3/4 deg. east 9 rods 11 links to a turn, thence south 54¼ deg east 62 rods to the highway, a stone for a corner, thence by said highway south 35 deg. west 8 rods 9 links to a corner, thence 63½ deg. west 42 rods 15 links, thence south 12½ deg. west 25 rods, TIMOTHY6 FULLER 245 thence north 66¼ deg. west 13 rods 4 links, thence south 40½ deg. west 2 rods, thence south 22½ deg west 18 rods, thence south 64 deg. west 5 rods 10 links, thence north 73½ deg. west 5 rods, thence north 17 3/4 deg. east 21 rods 18 links, thence south 65 deg. east 8 rods, thence north 16 3/4 deg. east 17 rods, thence north 65 deg. west 6 rods 17 links, thence north 12½ deg. east 24 rods 23 links, to the first corner. Containing 10 acres 58 rods more or less. Reserving the right for William Cole to pass and repass with teams and otherwise from his land to the highway. To have and to hold, etc .... April 7, 1841 Nancy L. Brayton B. C. Deeds 163:219 (Abel Medbury mentioned in above deed was Timothy Fuller's uncle) 11. ABEL SHOREY, et ux et ali, to TIMOTHY FULLER Abel Shorey and Nancy Shorey, his wife, in her right, and Rachel Wilmarth of Seekonk, Smith Bartlett and Martha his wife, in her right, of Holland, Mass., and Asa M. Armington and Lucy F. Armington his wife, in her right, of Providence, James Fuller of Coventry, Ebenezer Fuller of Warwick, and Horace Hendrick and Martha B. F. Hendrick his wife, in her right, of Hopkinton, R.I., Horace Seamans and Abby F. Seamans his wife, in her right, of Thompson, and James Pierce and Betsey Pierce his wife, in her right, of Plainfield, Connecticut, ... in consideration of $27.50 paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth ... do convey a certain parcel of woodland situate in said Rehoboth, containing 2 acres more or less, bounded northerly on lands of William Cole, westerly on lands belonging to the heirs of Samuel W. Bridgeham, southerly on lands of Thomas Perrin, and easterly on lands of said William Cole ... To have and to hold, etc., Abel Shorey Nancy Shorey Rachel Wilmarth Asa W. Armington Lucy F. Armington Ebenezer Fuller Lucy A. Fuller James Fuller Susan M. K. Fuller Horace Hendrick Maria B. F. Hendrick Horace Seamans The date was not complete on the record of Abby F. Seamans this deed but probably was March 19, 1843. It Smith Bartlett was recorded September 20, 1843. Martha Bartlett James Pierce B. C.Deeds 171 : 72 Betsey Pierce (From the number of signatures required to transfer this small piece of property it appears to have been part of an estate in the Ebenezer 246 TIMOTHY6 FULLER

Fuller line. Some of the signers were second cousins of Timothy Fuller. None were then living in Rehoboth.)

12. JACOB & SARAH ANN GOFF to TIMOTHY FULLER Jacob Goff and Sarah Ann Goff his wife, of Seekonk, Mass., in consideration of $50.00 paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth, yeoman, forever quit claim to all right, title and interest I have in the dwelling house where the said Timothy Fuller now lives, it being two thirds of all that part of said house that was set off to Hannah, Huldah and Polly Fuller ( sisters of the said Timothy) in the division of their late honored father's estate and for description of said premises reference being made to the division of said estate on record at the Probate Office in said County of Bristol. ... April 3, 1843 Jacob Goff B.C.Deeds 168: 152 Sarah Ann Goff (Sarah Ann was Jacob Goff's second wife.) 13. EZRA & HANNAH FULLER to TIMOTHY FULLER Ezra Fuller and Hannah Fuller, his wife, of Rehoboth ... in consideration of $45.00 paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth ... convey a certain tract of woodland situate in said Rehoboth and lying on the easterly side of the road leading northerly from said Timothy's house, containing 2 acres more or less ... bounded beginning at the southwest corner of said tract at said road for a corner, then northerly by said road about 14 rods to the corner of the ministerial lands for a corner, then easterly by said ministerial lands about 22 rods to the corner of said Timothy Fuller land for a corner, then southerly by said Timothy land about 13 rods to the corner of Asaph Bliss land for a corner, then westerly by said Bliss land about 23 rods to the first corner, it being a tract of woodland that was set to the said Hannah in the division of real estate of her father, late of Rehoboth, deceased. To have and to hold, etc. September 1, 1845 Ezra Fuller B.C.Deeds 177:32 Hannah Fuller 14. ROYALL. DROWN to TIMOTHY FULLER Know all men by these Presents, that I, Royal L. Drown of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, laborer, in consider­ ation of Two Hundred Dollars to me paid by Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth in said County of Bristol and Commonwealth aforesaid, laborer, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged do hereby give grant bargain sell and convey unto the said Timothy Fuller his heirs and assigns forever, a tract of land situated in said Rehoboth containing eight acres more or less, bounded as follows, viz: Beginning at the comer of the highway leading from the dwelling house of Ebenezer Medbury to Benjamin Hortons thence easterly by said highway to land of Benjamin Nash thence by the wall of said Nash's land and by Ebenezer Medbury's land northerly to a heap of stone for a corner: thence westerly by Alfred Pierce's land to the end of the wall: thence by said wall and TIMOTHY6 FULLER 247

Pierce's land to the said highway: thence southerly by said highway to the first mentioned comer. To have and to hold, etc .... January 1, 1855 Royal L. Drown B.C.Deeds 222:392 Lydia J. Drown 15. WILLIAM D. HUNT to TIMOTHY FULLER Know all men by these Presents, that I, William D. Hunt of the town of Seekonk, County of Bristol, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, in consideration of Five Hundred Dollars paid by Timothy Fuller of the town of Rehoboth, County and Commonwealth aforesaid, yeoman, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, do hereby give grant bargain sell and convey unto the said Timothy Fuller a certain piece of land situated in said Rehoboth on the easterly side of the road leading from Capt. 's to Long Hill so called: Beginning at the southeast corner of said premises at the corner of William Adams' land in the line of said road and bounded north eleven and a half degrees west by said road fifty five rods and five links to a corner, it being a corner of the road leading easterly and southerly by Nathan Carpenter's and bounding by said road seventy seven degrees east forty one rods and eleven links to the corner of the aforesaid Cushing's land: thence south ten degrees east fifty three rods to a corner at the aforesaid Adams' land: thence south seventy four degrees west forty rods to the first corner and contains by estimation thirteen acres two quarters and twenty rods be the same more or less. To have and to hold, etc .... January 3, 1855 William D. Hunt B.C.Deeds 222:393 Lydia Hunt 16. TIMOTHY FULLER to GEORGE G. BROWN Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth, yeoman, in consideration of $125 .00 paid by George G. Brown of Rehoboth, yeoman, ... convey a piece of improved land situated on Rocky Hill so called, and is the land I bought of Nancy L. Brayton ... in deed dated February 4, 1840 and recorded in Bristol County Book of Deeds 162 page 25 ... March 30, 1855 Timothy Fuller B.C.Deeds 223:19 Olive Fuller 17. TIMOTHY FULLER to HIRAM D. FULLER Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth, yeoman, ... in consideration of $75.00 paid by Hiram D. Fuller of said Rehoboth ... convey a certain piece of land situated in Rehoboth and containing 2 acres, be the same more or less, ... bounded northerly on land of William Cole, westerly on lands belonging to the heirs of Samuel W. Bridgham, southerly on lands of Thomas Perrin, and easterly on lands of said William Cole .... To have and to hold,.etc. October 18, 1855 Timothy Fuller B. C.Deeds 229: 163 Olive Fuller (It is interesting to note that Hiram was only twenty years old when he bought this piece of woodland from his father.) 248 TIMOTHY6 FULLER

18. TIMOTHY FULLER to GEORGE H. GOFF Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth, yeoman, in consideration of $180.00 paid by George H. Goff of Rehoboth, yeoman, ... convey a tract of woodland situated on Rocky Hill so called, in said Rehoboth, it being land formerly owned by Nancy L. Brayton ... bounded as follows: ( the description is practically identical to that in the deed of April 7, 1841,B.C.Deeds 163:219).Containing 10 acres 58 rods be it more or less, with the right to pass and repass with teams from the land owned by Simeon Cole and William Adams to the highway ... To have and to hold, etc. April 13, 1857 Timothy Fuller B.C.Deeds 242:39 Olive Fuller (Timothy paid $260.35 for this woodland but in the 16 years that he owned it he had possibly cut off much of the good wood so that the acreage became mostly sprout land and consequently decreased in value)

19. TIMOTHY FULLER to THOMAS COLE Know all men by these Presents, that I, Timothy Fuller of the Town of Rehoboth, County of Bristol, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, yeoman, in consideration of One Thousand Dollars paid by Thomas Cole of the Town of Attleborough, County and Commonwealth aforesaid, mechanic, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, do hereby give, grant, bargain, sell, and convey unto the said Thomas Cole, my farm on Rocky Hill, so-called, adjoining Mr. Timothy Bullock's farm, and is bounded as follows, viz: Beginning at the north-east corner of said farm in the line of the highway at the corner of the aforesaid Timothy Bullock's land - then south ten and half degrees east fifty-six rods by said highway to a corner, it being the corner of the aforesaid Bullock's homestead - then west six degrees north fifteen rods by said Bullock's land to a corner - then south thirteen degrees west twenty-four rods and nineteen links to a corner - then west twenty-three and a half degrees north twelve rods to a corner - then north three and a half degrees east fifteen rods to a corner - then west fourteen degrees north five rods and six links to a corner - then north eleven degrees east sixteen rods and fourteen links to a corner - then west twelve rods to a corner - then west forty degrees south seventeen rods and five links to a corner - then north twenty degrees west sixteen rods - then west seven and a half degrees north fifty-seven rods to a corner in the line of Mr. Cyrel Peck's land - then north nine degrees west forty-nine rods to a corner - then east fourteen and a half degrees north nineteen rods to a turn - then north forty-five degrees east twelve rods to a corner - then south forty-three rods fifteen links to a corner - then east seventeen degrees south nineteen rods to a corner - then north fifteen and a half degrees east ten rods to a corner - then east seventeen and a half degrees south forty-one rods to a corner - then north nine degrees east fifteen rods nine links to a corner - then east three degrees TIMOTHY6 FULLER 249 north twenty-eight rods to the place of beginning or first named corner, and contains by estimation twenty-nine acres, be the same more or less. To have and to hold the above granted premises with the privileges and appurtenances thereto belonging, to the said Thomas Cole and his heirs and assigns to their use and behoof forever. And I, the said Timothy Fuller, for myself and my heirs, executors and administrators, do covenant with the said Thomas Cole and his heirs and assigns, that I am lawfully seized in fee of the afore granted premises: that they are free of all incumbrances, except a right of way for Timothy Bullock and Sarah Goff and their heirs and assigns to pass and repass as set forth in the division of the Estate of Timothy Fuller, late of Rehoboth, deceased. That I have good right to sell and convey the same to the said Thomas Cole as aforesaid: and that I will, and my heirs, executors and administrators shall warrant and defend the same to the said Thomas Cole and his heirs and assigns forever against the lawful claims and demands of all persons. In Witness Whereof, I, the said Timothy Fuller and my wife Olive Fuller, who signs and relinquishes her Dower or Thirds in the above described premises, have hereunto set our hands and seals this ninth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-one. Executed and delivered Timothy Fuller (S) in presence of Olive Fuller (S) James Blanding Sarah Blanding Commonwealth of Massachusetts: Bristol George E. Fuller ss, March 9th, 1861. Then personally ap­ peared the above named Timothy Fuller and acknowledged the above instrument by him executed to be his free act and deed. Before me, James Blanding, Justice of the Peace. Rec'd July 1, 1861, recorded by Joseph Wilbar, Register. B.C.Deeds 258 :263

20. TIMOTHY FULLER to HIRAM D. FULLER Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth ... in consideration of $225.00 to me paid by Hiram D. Fuller of Rehoboth ... convey a piece of woodland lying in said town of Rehoboth and on the east side of the road leading from Thomas Coles to the Four Corners so-called. Bounded, commencing at the southwest corner of said lot and at a corner of George W. Bliss land near a comer of wall, then north by said road 3 deg. east 14 rods to a heap of stones side of the road for a corner, then easterly by land belonging to the Congregational Church Society about 55¼ rods to a heap of stones in the line of Isaiah N. Allen land for a corner, then by said Allen land south 19 deg. east 15 rods 13 links to a stone for a corner, then by George W. Bliss land north 83 deg. west by a fence and wall 22½ rods to a turn, then in line of wall south 88½ deg. west 30¼ rods to a turn, then 87½ deg. west about 8 rods 15 links to the first corner. Containing by estimation 4 acres 250 TIMOTHY6 FULLER

140 rods be the same more or less. Meaning to convey all my title in the woodlot that I own as above. To have and to hold, etc. December 27, 1864 Timothy Fuller B.C.Deeds 276:82 (The above wood lot includes the two acres Timothy purchased from Ezra and Hannah Fuller for $45.00 on September 1, 1845 and also two acres 140 rods which he inherited. It doesn't seem that Timothy gave his son Hiram an obvious bargain, especially at Christmas time. However, in the twenty or more years that Timothy had held this land the timber had doubtless appreciated in size and value. Hiram needed a supply of wood both for his house and his wheelwright shop.) 21. TIMOTHY FULLER to GEORGE W. GIFFORD Know all men by these Presents, that I Timothy Fuller of Rehoboth in the County of Bristol and State of Massachusetts, in consideration of Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars paid by George W. Gifford of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, do hereby give, grant, bargain, sell, and convey unto the said George W. Gifford, his heirs and assigns forever, my Homestead farm, containing about twenty-two acres be the same more or less, situated in said town of Rehoboth and lying on the Southerly side of Rocky Hill so-called, and on the east side of the road leading from Edwin F. Cushing's to Ebenezer Medbury's being in two lots, and lying on both sides of the road leading from the aforesaid road to Nathan Carpenter's. The first lot, with the house and barn etc., thereon standing lies on the north side of the last mentioned road. Bounded commencing at southwest corner at the junction of said roads; then northerly by first mentioned road to land belonging to the wife of Ira Medbury - then by said Medbury's land easterly by a wall to the end of the wall, then continuing the same course about twelve rods to a heap of stones on side of the hill for a corner, being in line of Ebenezer Medbury's land - then southerly by said Medbury's land to the end of a wall-'­ then southerly by a wall by Benjamin Nash's land to the last mentioned road - then westerly by said road to the first corner. The second piece is bounded, commencing at northwest corner at the junction of said roads - then by said road leading to Nathan Carpenter's north seventy-seven degrees east forty-one rods and eleven links to a corner - then by C. J. Brown's land south ten degrees east fifty-three rods to a corner - then by William Adams land south seventy-four degrees west forty rods to said road leading from Cushing's to Medbury's - then north by said road eleven and a half degrees west fifty-five rods and five links to the first mentioned corner. Being the same lot that Wm. D. Hunt deeded to said Fuller January 3, 1855 recorded in Book 222 pages 393 and 4 of Land Records. The first lot was deeded to said Fuller by Royal S. Drown January 1, 1855, recorded in Book 222 pages 392 and 393. TIMOTHY6 FULLER 251

To have and to hold, etc .... In Witness Whereof I, the said Timothy Fuller together with Ellen Fuller, my wife, in token of her and our release of all right and title of or to both Dower and Homestead in the granted premises, have hereunto set our hands and seals this eighteenth day of September in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and eighty-six. Signed, sealed and delivered iP presence of: Timothy Fuller (S) Geo. H. Carpenter Ellen Fuller (S) Bristol ss. Sept. 18, 1866. Then personally appeared the above named Timothy Fuller Rec'd Nov. 16, 1866 and Acknowledged the above instrument to and recorded by be his free act and deed. Joseph Wilbar, Register. Before me, Geo. H. Carpenter, B.C.Deeds 285 :204 Justice of the Peace. The following deeds were made in the settlement of Timothy's estate: 1. ELLEN FULLER to TIMOTHY'S CHILDREN Know all men by these presents, that l, Ellen Fuller of Pawtucket in the County of Providence and State of Rhode Island, widow, in consideration of one dollar to me paid by Gilbert D. Bullock of Rehoboth, Ira A. Medbery of Boston as he is guardian of the minor children of Timothy (b} Fuller deceased late of Rehoboth, Alonzo F. Fuller of Boston, Caroline Bullock, wife of Gilbert Bullock of Rehoboth, Mary I. Medbery, wife of Ira A. Medbery of Boston, Emeline F. Keene wife of Caleb Keene of Bridgewater, Israel Fuller of Roxbury, Hiram D. Fuller of Rehoboth, George E. Fuller of ... , the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, do hereby remise, release, and forever Quit claim unto the said Gilbert D. Bullock, Ira A. Medbery as he is guardian as aforesaid, Alonzo F. Fuller, Caroline Bullock, Mary I. Medbery wife of Ira A. Medbery, Emeline F. Keene wife of Caleb Keene, Israel C. Fuller, Hiram D. Fuller, and George E. Fuller, all of the right, title, and interest which I have in and to all of that land situate in Rehoboth in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massa­ chusetts by right of Dower or otherwise, which land is described in a certain deed of Joseph Carpenter and Enoch Fowler to my late husband Timothy Fuller dated March 10 A.D. 1827 and recorded in the 121 Book of land records for said Bristol County, pages 172-173 to which deed reference is hereby made. To have and to hold the above released premises, with all the privileges and appurtenances to the same belonging, to the said Grantees, their Heirs and Assigns, to their use and behoof forever. And I the said Ellen Fuller for myself and my Heirs, Executors, and Administrators, do covenant with said Grantees Heirs and Assigns that the premises are free from all incumbrances made or

(b} Error in copying. These minors were Amos Fuller's children. 252 TIMOTHY6 FULLER suffered by me, and that I will and my Heirs, Executors, and Administrators shall warrant and defend the same to the said Grantees their Heirs and Assigns forever against the lawful claims and demands of all persons claiming by or through or under me but against none other. In witness whereof, I the said Ellen Fuller have hereunto set my hand and seal this eleventh day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty seven. Signed, Sealed and delivered in presence of E,len Fuller (S) W. W. Blodgett State of Rhode Island, Providence, Jan. 11, 1867. Then personally appeared the above named Ellen Fuller and acknowledged the above instrument to be her free act and deed. Before me W.W. Blodgett, Justice of the Peace Received Mar. 12, 1867 and Recorded by Joseph Wilbar, Register. B.C.Deeds 285 :435 2. HEIRS of TIMOTHY FULLER to ISRAEL C. FULLER Ira A. Medbery of Boston, guardian of Amos G. Fuller, Mary E. Fuller and Lodema C. Fuller, minors, all recently of Cambridge, ... by order of the Probate Court for the County of Middlesex, to sell at auction ... on February 22, 1867 ... did sell to Israel C. Fuller of Roxbury for $25.00 being the highest bidder, do hereby convey 1/9 part of a certain lot situated in Rehoboth on Rocky Hill containing about 31 acres, bounded: beginning at a corner of land of William Adams, thence north 72 deg. west by land of George W. Bliss 41 rods, thence north 3 rods 15 links to a turn, thence north 17½ deg. east 4 rods 5 links, thence north 48½ deg. west 6 rods, thence north 55 deg. west 11 rods, thence north 69 deg. west by land of Billings Peck 55 rods 3 links, thence north 8 deg. east by land of E. C. Medbury 24 rods 9 links, thence 87½ deg. east 21 rods 21 links, thence north 3½ deg. east 12 rods, thence south 68½ deg. east 96¼ rods, thence south 21 deg. west to a turn, thence south 67 deg. west 1 rod 23 links, thence south 14 deg. west 21 rods to a turn, thence south 23 deg. east 18 links, thence south 17 deg. west 12 rods, thence south 22 deg. west 6 rods to the first corner. To have and to hold, etc .... March 27, 1867 Ira. A. Medbery B.C.Deeds 287: 142 The above deed for 31 acres is the remainder of the whole piece which was deeded to the children by Ellen Fuller on January 11, 1867 (285 :435). The whole piece contained 33 acres 45 rods and it appears from the next following deed that 2 acres I 7 rods had been set aside for Hiram. TIMOTHY6 FULLER 253

3. HEIRS of TIMOTHY FULLER to HIRAM D. FULLER Know all men by these Presents, that we Alonzo F. Fuller and Malvina Fuller his wife, and Ira A. Medbery and Mary I. Medbery his wife, all of Boston, County of Suffolk, and Gilbert D. Bullock and Caroline Bullock his wife, of Rehoboth, County of Bristol, and George E. Fuller and Louisa Fuller his wife, of Hingham, County of Plymouth, and Israel C. Fuller and Mary L. Fuller, of Roxbury, County of Norfolk, and Caleb Keen and Emeline F. Keen of Bridgewater, County of Plymouth, and Amos G. Fuller, Mary E. Fuller, and Lodema C. Fuller, minors, children of Amos Fuller late of Cambridgeport, deceased, County of Middlesex, all of the State of Massachusetts; in considera­ tion of Forty-two dollars and Twelve cents paid by Hiram D. Fuller of Rehoboth, County of Bristol and State aforesaid, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, do hereby give, grant, bargain, sell and convey unto the said Hiram D. Fuller his heirs and assigns forever, a piece or parcel of woodland lying in said Town of Rehoboth, and on Rocky Hill so-called. Bounded as follows: commencing at the Southwest corner, a heap of stones about one rod west of wall: thence North 87½ East twenty one rods twenty one links to a corner of wall by land belonging to the Heirs of Timothy Fuller: thence Northerly twelve rods to B. Nash land to a heap of stones for a corner: thence by B. Nash land twenty and three quarters rods to a heap of stones for a corner: thence twenty rods sixteen links to the first mentioned corner. Containing by estimation two Acres seventeen Rods be the same more or less. To have and to hold the above granted premises etc. In witness whereof we (the above named Gran tors) ... in token of our release of all right and title of or to both Dower and Homestead in the granted premises, have hereunto set our hands and seals this 25th day of May in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred sixty seven. Signed, sealed and delivered Israel C. Fuller in presence of: Mary L. Fuller Ira Allen to I. C. and M. L. Fuller Amos G. Fuller ) Andrew Lazneau witness to Mary E. Fuller ) Ira A. Medbery, Guardian Lodema C. Fuller ) In presence of: By their Guardian, Ira A. Medbery ) K. A.Dwyer Alonzo F. Fuller Sarah Dwyer Malvina Fuller Lydia J. Bailey )witnesses for Ira A. Medbery Lydia C. Johnson )G. E. & Louisa Fuller Mary I. Medbery In presence of: George E. Fuller E. Malvina Horton Louisa Fuller Ira E. Horton Caleb T. Keen In presence of: Emeline F. Keen Geo. W. Bliss Gilbert D. Bullock Received August I 8, 1868 and Caroline E. Bullock Recorded by Joseph Wilbar, Register. B.C.Deeds 294:243. 254 TIMOTHY6 FULLER

Israel Fuller, Gilbert and Caroline Bullock, and Ira Medbery were the only grantors who acknowledged this deed before a Justice of the Peace. Apparently there were witnesses enough to make the signatures legal and binding. 4. HEIRS of TIMOTHY FULLER to NOAH FULLER Know all men by these Presents, that we (all of the heirs named in the above deed) in consideration of $104.00 paid by Noah Fuller of Rehoboth, farmer, sell and convey a certain lot of woodland lying in Rehoboth on Rocky Hill so-called, bounded as follows ... and containing 6 acres 64 rods more or less. December 2, 1867 B.C.Deeds29I:312 (all sign) 5. HEIRS of TIMOTHY FULLER to JOHN McCORMICK Know all men by these Presents, that we (all of the heirs named in the preceeding deed to Hiram) in consideration of $272.00 paid by John McCormick of Rehoboth, farmer, . . . sell and convey a certain lot of land, pasture and wood, in Rehoboth on Rocky Hill so-called, bounded as follows ... and containing 24 acres and 70 rods more or less ... To have and to hold, etc. December 2, 1867 (all sign) B. C. Deeds 293:322 The obvious omission of Jason and his wife Phebe from the quit claim deed of widow Ellen Fuller to all of the other heirs, seems to indicate rather definitely that she didn't intend to have Jason share in the proceeds. It is very probable that Jason advised his father not to marry her, which would explain her action. It appears from the deed made three months later to Israel for I /9th share of the woodland that the heirs had agreed the final division would be nine shares which would include one for Jason.

NOTES ON THE HORTON FAMILY Considerable time has been spent in searching for the ancestry of Olive Horton, but I have been unable to determine any generation prior to her father Silas Horton. He appears to have come to Rehoboth to live about 1800, but from where we do not know. Possibly he was one of the Southold, Long Island, Hortons as the name Silas was a family given name in that locality. We have not, however, been able to prove parentage of Olive's father with the Southold Hortons. Bristol County and Rehoboth records concerning Silas are meagre. In fact the only evidence that Silas was Olive's father comes from Olive's death record which reads: "April 6, 1864, Olive Fuller, 57 years, 6 months, 20 days, married, born Rehoboth TIMOTHY6 FULLER 255 of Silas and Roby Horton, of heart disease." (RVR 10:9). The only direct record of Silas in Rehoboth vital records is his marriage: "September the 10th, 1804, then was Silas Horton and Robe Baker, both of Rehoboth, married by Preserved Pearce, Elder in Rehoboth." (RVR 4:191). Although this record does not so state, it was the second marriage of Robe (Camel) Baker, widow of James Baker, and was most probably the second marriage of Silas. In the Bristol County Census of 1810, and again in 1820, the family of Silas Horton is included. He apparently arrived in Rehoboth too late to be included in the 1800 census. There is only one Bristol County land record of land held by Silas. On September 14, 1815, a quit claim deed from James and Mary Baker of Warren, R.I., is given to Silas Horton of Rehoboth, cordwainer, for a payment of $5.00. This was for a small parcel of land, partly in Rehoboth and partly in Swansea, which was a piece of land set off to widow Robey Baker out of the estate of James Baker(Sr.). This was probably the land on which Silas and Robe were settled. The necessity for a quit claim deed by James, who was one of Robe's sons by her first marriage, was because James Baker, Sr., in his will left all of his real estate to his wife Rhoba (Robe) for her use as long as she remained his widow. From other old Rehoboth record books we find that in his later years, Silas and his wife were occasionally helped by the town, especially in 1819, 1822, and 1825. Robe died in 1827 after being sick for two or more years. Her death is not recorded in Rehoboth vital records, but on a list of members of the Hornbine Baptist Church of Rehoboth, under date of December 1827 is noted: "Robe Horton dismist by death." There is no record of Silas' death in the vital records. An item in a book of payments made by the town, under date of April 16, 1832, records a payment of $1.00 to Daniel Pierce for "my services in digging a grave for Silas Horton dec'd, and conveyance of dec'd." At the same time the town also paid Joseph Bowen $3.50 for "1 coffin for Silas Horton." These are the only records to indicate that he had died, probably on April 15th. Children of Silas Horton. There was possibly only one child by his first wife, a son named Silas Gr.). The Rehoboth Vital records show that this Silas was married November 30, 1817 to Miss Mary Smith of Rehoboth, by Elder Preserved Pearce (R VR 4:226). Silas Jr. and Mary had at least 256 TIMOTHY6 FULLER four children born in Rehoboth. Some of their descendants (Leon Horton and his sister Rhena) lived in Mansfield, Mass. Silas (senior) married secondly, on September 10, 1804, widow Robe (Come]) Baker, daughter of Amos and Cloe (Chase) Corne!. Robe was born November 4, 1769 at Dartmouth, Mass. and died at Rehoboth December 1827. Her name is also spelled Roby, Rho be, and Rhoba in various places. Children of Silas and Robe Horton i. Olive b. September 16, 1806. m. March 24, 1824, TIMOTHY6 FULLER. They had 11 children. Cf. Fuller Genealogy. d. April 6, 1864, at Rehoboth. ii. A daughter b. before the 1810 census. iii. Israel Corne! b. September 24, 1810. He lived in Cheshire, Mass., prior to coming to Mansfield, Mass., about 1890. He died in Mansfield February 17, 1899. iv. A son b. before the 1820 census. v. Elisha W. b. 1820, d. February 20, 1868, at Rehoboth. m. March 3, 1844, Caroline M. Pierce who was born in 1814, and died June 5, 1895 at Rehoboth. They had five children. Caroline married secondly, William Wood.

NOTES ON THE CORNELL FAMILY The emigrant ancestor of Olive Horton's maternal lineage was Thomas Corne!, born in Essex, England about 1595. He came to New England about 1635 and settled in Portsmouth, R.I. His descendants in Olive's line were Thomas2, Stephen3, Stephen4, IsraeJS, Amos6, Roby?, Olives. Of the earliest generations I have very little information. Israel Cornel (fifth generation) was born about 1720 and died in 1785. He married on November 27, 1740, Susannah Baker of Swansea. They lived in Dartmouth, Mass., where their son Amos was born (date unknown). Amos6 Come! married on April 22, 1762, Chloe Chace, daughter of Ezekiel and Rebecca Chace of Dartmouth. Their children were: i. Benjamin b. October 17, 1762 ii. John b. December 17, 1767 iii. Robe b. November 4, 1769 iv. Amos b. April 29, 1772 v. Israel b. August 8, 1774 TIMOTHY6 FULLER 257

vi. William b. November 17, 1779 vii. Philip b. March 31, 1782 Amos6 died in November 1805. In his will (B. C. Probate 41:509) he left money to five of his sons and 40 acres to William. To his only daughter, Roby Horton, he left $20.00 and his household furniture after his wife Chloe deceased. In his will Amos was called "housewrigh t." Robe Comel of Dartmouth was 18½ years old when her intentions of marriage with James Baker of Rehoboth were filed April 6, 1778. Their marriage was delayed until July 17, 1778, when they were married by Elder Daniel Hix (R VR 7 :22). Their children were born as follows: (RVR 4: 115) i. Nancy b. December I 4, 1790, in Rehoboth ii. James b. January 2, 1792, in Dartmouth iii. Jonathan b. March 21, 1793/4, in Dartmouth iv. Philip b. March 9, 1796, in Swanzey v. Chase b. June 14, 1799, in Rehoboth James Baker died in October 1799 and the inventory of his estate taken November 5, 1799 valued his farm and 38 acres in Rehoboth at $646.00, three acres of woodland in Swanzey at $47.59, and miscellaneous items at about $100.00. His wife Rhoba was to have use of all of his real estate as long as she remained his widow, but as she married Silas Horton September 10, 1804, the Rehoboth farm and the Swanzey woodland became property of the Baker children. The 38 acre farm was broken up and sold. The three acres in Swanzey probably was the land which James and Mary Baker quit claimed to Silas Horton. There is no record that the other children released their interest, but it was doubtless not worth their time and trouble to do so. CHAPTER VIII

HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 1835 - 1891

Born in Rehoboth July 10, 1835, Hiram Dexter was the seventh of the eleven children of Timothy and Olive. Both of his given names were new in the Fuller family, but contemporary with Olive there was a Hiram Horton and a Dexter Horton living in Rehoboth. Hiram is a biblical name of Hebrew derivation, signifying "most noble". As a boy, Hiram had to do some of the farm work, but he wasn't interested in becoming a farmer. With four older brothers sharing most of the farm work, it seems probable that Hiram had a minimum of such duties. Local attractions could have easily diverted his thoughts toward mechanical endeavors. The enterprises at Perryville, on the west branch of Palmer River, were the most readily accessible, but there were similar operations elsewhere in Rehoboth. The 1850 map shows six wood-turning shops, seven grist mills, five saw (and shingle) mills, one blacksmith shop, a wheelwright, a cooper, and a currier shop. The largest industry was the Orleans textile mill on Palmer River in South Rehoboth. There were numerous water wheels in town. When he was 15, Hiram had completed his formal education at Bliss No. 5 district school. At that time, the school year consisted of two terms of fourteen weeks each. The summer term began the first Monday in May, and the winter term began the first Monday in December. Each student was required to furnish his own text books and school supplies. ;fhe districts were not standardized on text books nor curricula, a situation which made teaching difficult. It was not until 1883 that the legislature passed a statute eliminating district schools. It was at the age of 15 that Hiram chiseled his initials and the year, 1850, in the big flat stone used as the door step at the east end of the 258 HI RAM DEXTER7 FULLER 259

Rocky Hill house. Although the weather had dulled the sharpness of the lettering by 1963 when I first noticed the initials, yet it showed the considerable skill and care he used. He apparently had obtained a V-point chisel, and learned how to use it by observing someone cutting letters on gravestones. This is the only actual example of Hiram's workmanship I have been able to find.

Hiram Becomes a Blacksmith and Wheelwright Sometime in his late teens, he was apprenticed to learn the blacksmith trade. At that time, there was a blacksmith shop about three miles from Rocky Hill, at the corner of the present Fairview Avenue and Anawan Street. It was owned and operated by James Davis. We have no substantiation, but Hiram could have served his apprenticeship under Mr. Davis, and may have continued to work for him for a number of years before he married in 1860. Hiram also learned the wheelwright trade, which became his principal occupation. It can be assumed from the lease of land dated November 18, 1865, that Otis Perry owned a wheelwright shop near the Perryville dam. As this shop does not show on the 1850 map, it was built and operating sometime between that date and 1865. This would have been a logical place for Hiram to work and learn the wheelwright trade. That he learned it thoroughly and was a master at his trade, will be obvious later in this chapter.

Hiram Marries Susan Perry Just across the road from the Perryville dam, in a large and handsome white house, lived Daniel Bliss Perry. He was a prosperous farmer and also owned and operated a wood-turning shop in Perryville. He owned the water rights of the river, which he later sold to his brother Otis. In 1830 he had married Lydia Ann, daughter of Thomas and Susanna Carpenter. They had five children, the third being a girl born February 1, 1838 and nam~d Susan Carpenter Perry. Susan, with the other Perry children, went to school at Bliss No. 5, and undoubtedly was well acquainted with the Fuller boys who also went to that school. In due time she became the special interest of Hiram Dexter, who had no difficulty covering the two miles between their respective houses during his years of courtship. They were married in Rehoboth November 7, 1860 by the Baptist minister, Rev. Andrew Pollard. They may have started their married life by living at Daniel Perry's house. 260 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER

Photos taken shortly after their marriage in 1860

Children of Hiram Dexter and Susan (Perry) Fuller Lunette Augusta born October 23, 1861 Herbert Clifton born September 1, 1863 Edgar Winfield born September 7, 1865 William Carlton born December 24, 1867 Harold Perry born December 18, 1875

Their Perryville House The house next to Daniel Perry's on the south was a duplex house, and the opportunity came to buy the western part with about half an acre of land, to settle the estate of Asaph Bliss. The Probate Court had ordered the Administrator to sell the house at public auction. Hiram proved to be the highest bidder and on August 4, 1862, the western half of the house and land was deeded to him for $400.00. He and his family lived there for nearly twenty years. In the 1871 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 261 map of Rehoboth in the Atlas of Bristol County, the house is located on Perryville Road near Danforth street. H. D. Fuller is shown as one owner and 0. Perry as the owner of the eastern part. This was Otis Perry, Susan's uncle, and a bachelor. He was part owner of the Perry enterprises. Hiram Establishes His Own Business In 1865, Hiram built a small blacksmith shop in Perryville on a 44' x 54' piece of land he leased, and went into business for himself. He

HIRAM D. FULLER'S HOUSE, PERRYVILLE ROAD, REHOBOTH The Fullers lived in the west (left) end. Otis Perry owned and lived in the east half. Photo taken ca. 1880. The elm trees are no longer there. The fencing and posts have been removed. The boy with his home-made wagon is not identified. 262 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER was then 30 years old and had accumulated 12 or more years of experience. Both his wife, Susan, and the Perrys undoubtedly encouraged him to become independent. The lease for this piece of land at the Perryville dam is quoted later in this chapter. This document was formally recorded at the Registry of Deeds, Taunton, although the rent of $1.00 per year was hardly more than a token. From this lease it is obvious that the building adjacent to the proposed blacksmith shop was a wheelwright shop. It was owned by Otis Perry and was probably operated by him, but we have no record to confirm this opinion. Events of the next few years are not recorded either, but it seems highly probable that Hiram took over the wheelwright shop, at least on an operational basis. The 1871 map of Perryville section shows only a single building labelled "H. D. Fuller Blacksmith shop and wagon shop". There were actually two separate buildings there, but placed close together. Hiram's advertise­ ment in the 1871 atlas reads: "Fuller, H. D., Gen'! Blacksmithing and Carriage smithing done with neatness and dispatch. Perryville".

A= C.H. Goff residence B = H. D. Fuller, Blacksmith shop and wagon shop C = D. B. Perry residence D = Saw Mill & Grist Mill E = J. H. Perry residence (later owned by Chas Perry) I inch= F = H. D. Fuller & 0. Perry 3o rods residence G = J. H. & C. Perry turning mill In 1968 buildings A, C, E, and F are still there and. in good condi­ tion. Only one residence has been added to the entire area. This was recently built at (*) and is an tG attractive addition to the area. PERRYVILLE 1871 HI RAM DEXTER7 FULLER 263

Hiram's Rehoboth Shop The location of his shop was good, and benefited from the traffic to the grist mill, saw mill, and turning shops. Much of his blacksmithing would have been horse-shoeing. Repair work on wagons and carriages would have been welcome. He could repair, or build new, any kind of wagon. He seems to have had a satisfactory amount of business, and usually employed a helper. At one time (date unknown), his blacksmith shop caught fire in the night and burned down. He rebuilt it right away, and work was resumed without serious interruption. There were no power tools of any kind, in either the blacksmith shop or the wheelwright shop. Everything was done with hand tools. Sometime early in his career, Hiram purchased a heavy Peter Wright anvil. These were made in England and reputed to be the best in the world. Over its many years of use, the face of this anvil became worn, but it would still ring with a clear tone, proving it was made of fine steel. Other blacksmith tools would be his forge and various tongs, swages, hammers, etc. For shaping wagon tires, there was a hand-operated machine with three rolls, by means of which a flat strip of steel could be rolled into a circular shape. Some wagon tires were 3" wide and ¼" thick, and it took a strong arm to work these into a circle. The joint in the tire was welded in the shop, but to heat the whole tire prior to shrinking it on its wooden wheel, it was necessary to build a big fire outdoors. The pond in back of the shop made a handy place to quench the hot tire after it was set. The tools in the wheelwright shop were wood-working tools - saws, planes, chisels, gouges, auger bits, drawknives, spoke shavers - all kept razor sharp to ensure expert workmanship on the hard woods used in wagon building. Farm wagons and two-wheeled dump carts were Hiram's specialty, and occasionally he had an order for a light delivery wagon. The axles of the dump carts were a heavy square of white oak or maple, with each end turned round to fit the hub of the wheel. The turning was done by Hiram in Otis Perry's shop. A Y-shaped iron was inlaid in each end of the axle. The outer end of the Y was threaded for a nut and washer to hold the wheel in place. The hubs for the wheels were also turned in a lathe in Otis Perry's shop, and bored to fit the axle. Precision workmanship was necessary to make the wheels run true on their axle. The spokes and felloes were all shaped with hand tools. 264 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER

"Two-wheeled" Dump Cart The front end of the box had a link over a hook which could be turned to release the link before dumping the load by tilting the box as shown.

For four-wheeled farm wagons and other wagons, steel axles were bought from the Canton Axle Company where Hiram's brother Israel worked as a machinist. They were half axles, and two were welded together to get the right overall length. Other iron fittings used in making a wagon he could forge by hand. After the two oldest boys, Herbert and Edgar, finished their schooling, at about age 15, they went to work in the shop for their father. Under his training they both became expert craftsmen, Ed in woodworking and Bert in both wood and iron work. As apprentices they probably were paid very little over their room and board. An entry dated May 31, 1879 in the Rehoboth Town Treasurer's record of payments book, shows that on this date the town paid Hiram D. Fuller $112.00. It is not stated what this payment was for, but from similar entries and payments to others, it was undoubtedly for teaching school. At that time the school year was three terms: 8 weeks starting in September; 12 weeks commencing in December; and 8 weeks starting in April, or a total of 28 weeks. The Treasurer's records indicate that the school teachers were paid $4.00 per week. HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 265

Hiram doubtless took this opportunity to add to his income, especially if his wheelwright business was slow. There were no other entries concerning Hiram in the book. In 1880 and 1881 his daughter Lunette appears to have taught school in Rehoboth for several terms. Things might have continued indefinitely, had the older children been satisfied to accept what Rehoboth might have in store for them in future years. They must have had frequent discussions concerning their probable careers and their chances of being content in Rehoboth. Mother Susan was keen enough to appreciate the situation. She was concerned with the social success of her children, as well as their ambitions to achieve business success. The more they thought about it and discussed it together, the more the outlook in Rehoboth seemed to lack challenging opportunities for them, socially or industrially. There doubtless were various alternates considered, but ultimately the decision was made to seek opportuni­ ties for the children elsewhere. Hiram Moves His Family and Business to Mansfield Mansfield, another Bristol County town, was about 15 miles distant from Rehoboth, a two-hour drive over the country roads through Norton and West Mansfield. Hiram and his family must have driven there occasionally on business or to visit with friends. Susan's sister Elizabeth had married a carpenter named Sumner Durfee and they were living in Foxboro. To visit these relatives Hiram would have driven through Mansfield. In their travels to Mansfield the family could have been impressed with its factories, stores, churches and schools largely concentrated near the center of the town. The activity and variety in Mansfield, in contrast to Perryville or Rehoboth, must have had a fascinating appeal. Certainly the boys would be able to find work to their liking in prosperous Mansfield! It was a busy industrial town with diversified manufacturing, and was growing faster than Rehoboth, the farm town. At that time Mansfield population was over 2700, while Rehoboth population was about 2000 and widely scattered. There was a practical appeal to Mansfield as it was a freight center at the junction of two railroads. It would be much easier for Hiram to pick up his supplies of lumber, coal, iron, etc., compared with the inconvenience of his location in Perryville. There was no railroad in Rehoboth and the nearest freight depot was eight miles away. Pawtucket and Providence were the usual sources of supply but travelling there by horse and wagon took considerable time out of 266 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER the working day. Much of this time would be saved for productive work by locating in Mansfield. With its favorable location, its industrial and other opportunities, and apparent social activities, Mansfield seemed to be just about the right town for the Fullers to settle in. Their Mansfield Residence A sizeable house with two barns and plenty of land was for sale on School street. Mrs. Eliza Cook had recently been widowed, and the property was more than she needed or could support. She sold her entire holdings on both sides of the street and seven acres of woodland in West Mansfield to Hiram D. and Susan C. Fuller for $3,500.00. She took a mortgage for $1,500 on the property. The house is still standing (1968) at No. 88 School street, with almost no structural changes. It is now owned by Spring Brook Cemetery Corp. At the time the Fullers bought the property, School street was one of the busier streets, being a through road to West Mansfield, Norton, Attleboro, and on into Providence. There was considerably more traffic than that which went by his shop in Perryville. On May 9, 1882, the family moved to their new residence in Mansfield. From the files of the Mansfield News of that year, we sketch the highlights of contemporary activity in town. MANSFIELD - 1882 Statistics and General: There were 586 dwelling houses, including both West and East Mansfield. The population was 2700 and had increased by 500 in the preceding five years. The town valuation was $1,102,654, made up of real estate of $947,170, and personal of $155,484. Polls were 705. Expenses voted for the year were $22,670. A new town hall was under construction at a total cost of $16,000. It was to contain the High School, the library, the town offices, and have an auditorium to seat 750. There were only gravel roads for main streets as well as the side roads, and many were deep mud when it rained and dusty in dry weather. There were no public street lights, although some citizens maintained a kerosene lantern in their front yard. No telephones in Mansfield yet, but there were a few in Foxboro and Walpole. Messages could be sent by telegraph at the depot. The annual town meeting in the Spring voted on the liquor question with a large majority for "no licence". The Mansfield News HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 267

MANSFIELD ca. 1882

First Baptist Church

Looking North on Main Street. 268 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER complained regularly about the loafers at the depot, on the common, and at street corners. There were frequent arrests by the single town constable for drunkenness, and the News published these affairs in great detail. Runaway horses, upset carriages and sleighs were also favorite topics for the weekly paper. Churches: Baptist (Rev. John Duncan), Congregational (Rev. Jacob Ide), Methodist, Unitarian, Swedenborgen, Catholic, and New Jerusalem were the churches. The ministers preached two different sermons on Sunday, one at 1: 30 and the evening sermon at 7: 30. There were mid-week prayer meetings and Sunday School classes as regular events. Frequent temperance meetings were held at most churches, and a great deal of effort was put into this activity. The churches were the center of many social activities, such as suppers, strawberry festivals, harvest suppers in season, and the annual Christmas tree with Santa Claus after a Christmas supper. Money-raising events, bazaars, dramatics, lawn parties with Chinese lanterns in the evening, all helped to raise a few dollars for the church treasurer. The Baptist church featured a large Choral Society using local talent. Stereopticon lectures were popular. Public Entertainment: Band concerts were held weekly, or oftener, in the summer. There was roller-skating nightly at Lovell's Hall in the winter season. Special events included the annual Fireman's Ball, a Maypole dance, and "Uncle Tom's Cabin" by travelling actors in Lovell's Hall (admission 25¢; 35¢ for reserved seats). There were several baseball teams - "Red Caps", "Meteors", "North End Hoodlums", "South End Dudes" - who played out-of-town teams as well as among themselves. There were a few lodges and social clubs, including "Norfolk & Bristol County Horse Thief Detecting Society."

Railroads: There were two separate railroads making a junction and cross-over above the depot at Mansfield. The Boston & Providence ran ten passenger trains daily each way. The fare to Boston was 55¢ and to Providence 45¢. The Old Colony R.R. came up from New Bedford, Fall River and Taunton to Mansfield, and had a single track to Foxboro. They ran about five trains each way daily. Each railroad had its own freight house and yard, and did a good freight business. HI RAM DEXTER 7 FULLER 269

MANSFIELD ca. 1882

Corner East, West, and Main Streets looking West. Lovell's Store and Hall. Congregational Church.

Mansfield Depot Chilson Foundry at Right Background. 270 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER

C. A. McAlpine was freight agent for the Old Colony. Baggage Masters and Conductors were paid $2.00 a day. Brakemen got $1.85. These were ten hour days! There was a story in the News almost every week about late trains, or hot boxes, or getting off the track at inconvenient places, or other operating troubles. Industries: Card's Tap & Die Works employed 31 "hands". This year they put in a 30 horsepower steam boiler and engine as a standby to keep the shop running when the water power dried up. Chilson Furnace Company was still active, with a hundred or more employees, although Gardner Chilson had died five years ago. Corney's Straw hat shop in season had the largest employment, over 200, many women coming there for the busy season. D.S. Spaulding's Jewelery shop employed about 100. Geo. E. Bailey & Sons bakery on School Street employed about 70. Rider Bros. (Joseph and William) operated a small foundry. Mansfield Watch Tool Co., were manufacturers of small jeweler's lathes and tools. Mansfield Tool Co., made a patented adjustable knurling tool. Wm. Taylor Mfg. Co., on South Main street, made razors, knives, burnishers and miscellaneous small tools. There were several basket makers with one or two man shops. Factory working hours were 7 A.M. to 6 P.M. on week-days, and 7 A.M. to l P.M. on Saturday, making a 56 hour week. When business was slow, employees were sent home, and waited without pay until things picked up again, and they were called back. Hiram's Activities in Mansfield Hiram's business operations and family events were given a considerable amount of friendly publicity by the Mansfield News. The following items, quoted chronologically from the News (unless otherwise noted), will present the most complete and factual picture of his years in Mansfield that can now be obtained. The date listed for each item is the date of publication of the News, which at that time was a Friday. These news items start with the purchase of the School street property and continue through to Hiram's last illness and death. April 28, 1882: "Mr. H. D. Fuller of Rehoboth, a wheelwright, has purchased the premises on School street, at present occupied by Mrs. HIRAM DEXTER 7 FULLER 271

E. J. Cook. He will transfonn one of the barns into a carriage and blacksmith shop." As the deed was not signed until a year later (April 30, 1883), it is probable that Hiram rented the property until then. June 2, 1882: "Mr. Jas. Beeden has sold his blacksmith shop to Mr. H. D. Fuller, who lately moved from Rehoboth, and who bears the reputation of being a first-class workman." This shop was located on the south side of West street, just above the Rumford River. June 23, 1882: "Mr. H. D. Fuller, who recently has taken possession of the stand of James Beeden on West street, is making many friends by his good workmanship." August 1 1, 1882: "The dry weather has played havoc with vehicles of all kinds, as the array in front of H. D. Fuller's blacksmith shop will testify." September 22, 1882: "The residents, and especially the ladies of School street have been annoyed by the weeds and grass growing on the sidewalk, making it very unpleasant for walking, especially after a rain, and numerous requests have been made to have them cut down. Their request has been granted by somebody, who apparently accomplished the job either late last evening or quite early this morning." December 22, 1882: "Mr. H. D. Fuller, the West street blacksmith, has had about all he can do shoeing horses the past month. He understands his business thoroughly, a fact which owners of horses have found out ere this." Hiram's first advertisement was on the front page in the H. D. FULLER, December 22 News. It ran only a few times. He doubtless felt that he had business enough and that it was not necessary to advertise for - -'7 more. At that time the cost of :;,I; an ad the size of his was . ·.... ·•. ,,;,,.;:;.,-r- probably 75¢ per week. There BLACKSJMITH were other blacksmiths in town who did not advertise O-Speclal attention given to HOBSE-lllleehf either. Jobbing of all kinds doue in a superior -• September 2, 1883: "A let­ WEST STREET, MANSFIELD. ter was read from the church 272 HI RAM DEXTER7 FULLER in Rehoboth (Anawan Baptist Church) dismissing and recommending to our fellowship, Bro. Hiram D. Fuller & wife, Edgar W. Fuller, & Lunette A. Fuller - they were accepted." Baptist Church Record Book. October 2, 1884: "The following bretheren & sisters received the hand of fellowship: Hiram D. Fuller, Edgar W. Fuller, Mrs. Fuller, Lunette A. Fuller, James Campbell, Margaret Campbell, Fanny Isabel Leavitt." Baptist Church Record Book. November 23, 1883: "Mr. H. D. Fuller has disposed of his Blacksmithing business to Joseph Ryan. In all that pertains to horse-shoeing, etc., "Joe" stands pre-eminent, and we bespeak for him the continued support of the patrons of Mr. Fuller." According to his youngest son, Harold, Hiram never cared for the horse-shoeing part of his business. He sold this West street shop a few months after he had been kicked on his right arm by a horse he was shoeing. This probably was the deciding factor to give up horse­ shoeing entirely. It was also a few years later to be the cause of months of disability when he was unable to use his right arm, and it finally resulted in his death. Hiram was not a big man physically as he was about five feet ten inches in height, and weighed about 170 lbs. in his prime. Although he was wiry and strong, he didn't enjoy matching his strength with a balky horse. March 7, 1884: "Mr. H. D. Fuller is making over a barn on his premises on School street into a blacksmith and wheelwright shop." March 28, 1884: "Mr. H. D. Fuller is nearly ready to occupy his wagon shop. When completed it will be the most commodious building used for this purpose in town." This shop was originally the cow barn on his School street property. It measured 30 feet across the front and 28 feet deep. It was two stories high and he used the second floor for storage of lumber. His forge and anvil were on the ground floor at the back of the shop. The front end was for woodworking and wagon building and repair. It was much larger than any of his earlier shops. April 25, 1884, "Mr. H. D. Fuller is bound not to be left behind in way of improvements, and to prove this fact his residence on School street is receiving a new coat of paint, as is also the fence fronting the same." May 9, 1884: "The painters have certainly done a first-class piece of work on H. D. Fuller's residence. The blinds are of a dark green color, while the house is painted white." HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 273

June 20, 1884: "Rev. Geo. E. Fuller of Hyannis occupied the. pulpit of the Baptist church last Sunday, preaching an excellent sermon from Psalms 36:9." This verse reads - "For with Thee is the fountain of life; in Thy light shall we see light." George was Hiram's younger brother. August 8, 1884: "H. D. Fuller has about all he can attend to now-a-days in the repairing of wagons, carriages, etc. on School street." October 10, 1884: "H. D. Fuller has materially improved the looks of his grounds on School street by filling in with brown loam, which eventually will make a fine lawn."

Other Events of 1884 There were a number of noteworthy events this year. The fire at the No. 4 school house on North Main street, which occurred on February 1, was described in detail in the News but of interest today is the method of fighting a fire less than a hundred years ago. Quoting from the News - "Willing hands brought pail after pail of water and in an hour the fire was extinguished." Agitating for a steam engine the News continues - "Can we be sure the next blaze can be conquered by water pails and garden pumps?" There were about 100 kerosene street lamps in town this year, due to activity of the Mansfield Improvement Association. The nearest resident was expected to light the lamp and keep it in good working order. A campaign was under way to hire a lamplighter. At the annual town meeting held March 17th, a total of $15,850 was voted to run the town affairs for the ensuing year. Included was $5,500 for schools. The tax rate was $15.80 per thousand. The Massachusetts legislature passed an act requiring school committees in each town and city to purchase, at the town's expense, textbooks and other school supplies, and to loan them to the pupils free of charge. This act was effective August 1, 1884. On July 30th the new town library was opened in the selectmen's room in the Town Hall. About $1,600 had been contributed by the citizens to buy books. H. D. Fuller contributed $5.00. On election night, November 4th, for the first time, returns were received by telegraph installed at the Town Hall. "First class entertainment will be procured to fill the waits." It was Cleveland vs. Blaine running to succeed President Arthur. 274 HI RAM DEXTER 7 FULLER

On December first the conductors on the Northern Division of the Old Colony R.R. received a $10.00 per month pay increase, making their salary $80.00 per month, the same as conductors on the main line were paid. Business conditions generalJy were growing worse throughout the year, and by January 1885, business in the local factories had dropped off to such an extent that they were either going on short time· or shutting down completely. Chilson Foundry was on a four day work week. Corney's straw shop was shut down indefinitely as was also Rider's Foundry. Spaulding's Jewelry shop was about to do likewise. Card's shop was planning to reopen on an 8½ hour work day. The Wilbur Foundry was bankrupt, and was sold in April to a Mr. Shields of Easton for $1,435.00. The panic caused by the gambling bankers of Wall street in 1884, was far-reaching and it was many months before the shops in Mansfield were back to normal working conditions. Further Items from the News June 12, 1885: "Mrs. Lizzie Durfee of South Framingham is paying a pleasant visit to H. D. Fuller and family on School street." This was Susan's younger sister, Elizabeth. The Durfees had moved from Foxboro to South Framingham. July 31, 1885: "H. D. Fuller appears to have about all the work he can attend to at his place of business on School street, and the location has proved to be very eligible." August 7, 1885: "Attention is called to the fact that several of those who have street lamps in front of their residences do not light them until very late in the evening, and there are some who pay no attention to them whatever on dark nights. We hope in the future there will be no cause for speaking of this matter, and the fault seems to be mostly with those who, when the Improvement Society placed them where they are, agreed to keep them lighted when needed." November 13, 1885: "The residence of H. D. Fuller, on School street, was the scene last Friday evening of one of the most pleasant events which has ever occurred in Mansfield, it being the celebration of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Fuller. Guests to the number of about seventy, many of whom were relatives of the worthy couple, were present from Boston, Provi­ dence, Pawtucket, Taunton, Attleboro, South Framingham Win­ throp, and Rehoboth, besides those from our town. The spacious parlors were filled with the merry throng, who seemed to vie with HIRAM DEXTER 7 FULLER 275 each other in making the occasion one which would long remain in the memories of their host and hostess. An entertainment of rare merit was a principal feature of the evening, and was participated in by Mrs. Hattie Mills, who sang several solos in her usual sweet tone of voice. Mr. E. A. Warner ( a) of Providence also favored the company with selections in singing which were finely rendered, while Mr. W. L. Robinson, at the piano (b) gave some choice selections, which were rendered in his usual happy manner. A bountiful collation was spread during the evening in the large dining room, two long tables being twice filled by the large company present. Tokens of remembrance were many, and indeed beautiful. The ladies Sewing Circle connected with the Baptist Church presented a gold-band china tea set of most beautiful design. Besides this there were several sets of solid silver tea spoons, sets of table and fruit knives, silver butter dishes, silver and cut glass berry dishes, an elegant large silver cake basket (square), and a very pretty pickle castor of silver with receptacle of amberina ware. In addition to those mentioned there were a large number of other valuable articles and several fragrant bouquets of flowers presented to them, all of which clearly showed that they whose fortunes have been so closely woven together during these twenty-five years of married life, had won for themselves the love and esteem of hosts of friends, whose best wishes will follow them through the changing years of what all hope will be a long and prosperous life. Our very best wishes with the rest." February 1886: Great floods throughout New England. Heavy rains Thursday through Saturday night with no let up. Dams broken in all Mansfield ponds. A continuous lake from Fulton's pond across Main Street. The north end a solid lake. Most buildings were flooded. Tracks washed out on the Boston & Providence R.R. Much worse was the damage in Foxboro - five feet of water in the laundry on Granite street and water in this section was so high that boats could easily be sailed over the tops offences. April 30, 1886: "A fine heavy wagon has been built at the wagon shop of H. D. Fuller, for Walter W. Leonard. We understand that the wheels alone, without the tires are worth about $50.00. It will be used for the drawing of stone, wood, etc., and will be a credit to the workmanship of Mr. Fuller."

(a) Mr. Warner was a second cousin of Susan. (b) The piano was sent up from Providence. Hiram had an organ which he and some of his children could play. Hiram also played a violin. 276 HI RAM DEXTER7 FULLER

May 7, 1886: "The scraper with four horses attached did some good work yesterday on School street." July 2, 1886: "H. D. Fuller's wagon and carriage shop on School street has been embellished with a coat of paint, and a new sign appears in front of a neat and tasty design. Mr. Fuller's business is rapidly increasing, and all work turned out from his establishment will bear close inspection." July 9, 1886: Congregational singing will be introduced in the Baptist Church and new hymn books will be purchased for that purpose." October 29, 1886: "Geo. E. Bailey & Sons have just had built for them a fine wagon, which will be used for their business in Boston. H. D. Fuller was the builder, which is a guarantee that the work has been done in a first class manner. The Messrs Bailey claimed it to be the best workmanship on any wagon ever made for the firm. It was painted by James A. Hall of Foxboro, and this part is also a fine piece of workmanship and deserves praise which it receives." November 12, 1886: "$1.00 Silver certificates are now being issued and should supplant the bulky, heavy silver dollars." March 25, 1887: "At the town meeting held March 21, 1887, H. D. Fuller and others asked to be excused from jury duty, which was granted, and other names substituted." April 1, 1887: "The exceedingly bad condition of School street should be taken note of this year by the proper authority. There are probably more heavy loads pass over that than any other street in town, (with the exception of Main) and it is certain that no important road of the town has been so much neglected of late years." April 15, 1887: "Highway Surveyor James W. Cobb is doing some excellent work on School street, which has been very much needed for several years past. There have been places in this road during late years where in a rainy season, wagon wheels would sink into the mud so deep that travelling with the heavier loads which passed over it was exceedingly difficult." April 29, 1887: "Frank D. Skinner's new express wagon is a beauty, and reflects much credit to the builder, H. D. Fuller of School street. Frank has also purchased an iron gray horse. We congratulate Mr. Skinner on the evident increase in his business." Mr. Skinner sold meats and provisions. July 22, 1887: "The wheelwright business lately carried on by H. D. Fuller on School street has changed hands, and will hereafter be HI RAM DEXTER7 FULLER 277 conducted by two of his sons under the firm name of H. C. & E.W. Fuller. From a small beginning, Mr. Fuller has made this quite a business, and it is steadily growing, but continued ill health makes a change necessary. The new firm is well known, and have the best wishes for an increased and successful business." Bert was working in Boston as bookkeeper for Dame, Stoddard Co., and Ed was with G. E. Bailey & Sons on a delivery wagon route in the Attleboro area. They realized that their father's condition was such that he could not carry on the wheelwright business alone much longer, and accordingly resigned their positions and made an arrangement to operate the shop on School street. Their father was to work for them whenever he was able to. The boys were young ~ Bert just under 24 and Ed not quite 22. That they were able to continue the reputation of their father is high commendation for his training and counselling. In May 1891, the company name was changed to the Fuller Carriage Company, and the business operated until June 1903, when it was discontinued and the remaining stock sold. August 12, 1887: "I. C. Fuller of Boston visited this week with his brother, H. D. Fuller, School street." January 17, 1890: "H. D. Fuller received the unexpected news of the death of his brother, Rev. Geo. E. Fuller, on January 1. The death occurred on December 31st and was very unexpected to Mr. Fuller as the last news received announced that his brother was improving. Rev. Mr. Fuller resided in Maynard, Minnesota and had been west some four years. He was a preacher in the Methodist church and was formerly connected with this conference and was well known by the Methodist people and others. The cause of his death was erysipelas." January 31, 1890: "Rev. W. S. Basten and Mr. H. D. Fuller, attended the ordination of the new Baptist minister at Rehoboth this week, as delegates." From the Mansfield Assessor's records, the following tax years have been copied as examples of H. D. Fuller's taxes:

May 1, 1883 - (the first year he owned the property) Personal: I horse $ 75 I cow 40 1 carriage 115 $ 230 tax 3.45 Real Estate: House 1200 Barn 150 278 HIRAM DEXTER 7 FULLER

Barn & Basket house 100 5 3/4 a. Mowing & tillage land 575 6 a. sprout land 80 2 a. wood land 50 $2155 tax 64.65 poll tax 2.00 Total $70.10 The tax rate was $30.00 per thousand this year, higher than any of the surrounding towns, apparently due to payment on the new town hall which cost $16,000. The rate was $19.40 in 1882, and dropped to $15.80 in 1884. May 1, 1884 - (he had converted the barn into his shop) Personal: Horse $ 100 Cow 30 Carriage 50 180 tax $2.84 Real Estate: House 1200 Barn 200 Shop 150 5 3/4 a. mow & til land 575 6 a. sprout land 80 2 a. wood land 50 2255 tax 38.47 poll tax 2.00 Total $40.47 May 1, 18 90 - ( the year before he sold the shop)

Personal: Horse $ 125 Carriage 50 175 tax $ 3.18 Real Estate: House 1600 Barn 200 Shop 400 5 3/4 a. mow & till land 550 6 a. sprout land 80 2 a. wood land 50 2880 tax 50.75 poll tax 2.00 Total $55.93 May 1, 1891 - ( the shop had been sold with a small piece of land. He had also sold the horse and carriage) Personal: 1 Cow $ 25 $ 25 tax $ .43 Real Estate: House 1600 Barn 200 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 279

5 a. house land 500 6 a. wood & sprout land 80 2 a. wood land 50 2430 tax 41.31 poll tax 2.00 Total $43.74 May 1, 1892 - Estate of H. D. Fuller No personal (the cow had died) Real Estate: House $1600 Barn 200 5 a. home land 500 6 a. wood & sp. land 80 2 a. wood land 50 2430 tax $40.10 Under date of March 27, 1891, Hiram D. and Susan C. Fuller deeded to Herbert C. and Edgar W. Fuller, the wagon shop and the small piece of land (about 1/10 acre) that it stood on. Shortly afterward, on April 16, 1891, an additional piece of land ( 46' x 46') was deeded to the boys, as they were making plans to put up another building nearer the street. They then had 130 ft. frontage on School street. The price paid for the shop and land is not recorded. This transfer of ownership of the real estate was due to the pending operation on Hiram's right arm. There was doubtless the realization that he could no longer work, and perhaps a fear concerning the outcome of such a serious operation. April 24, 1891: "For several months Mr. H. D. Fuller has suffered with some trouble in his right arm which finally developed into necrosis ( c) of the elbow joint. Amputation became necessary in order to save Mr. Fuller's life. On Monday Ors. W. G. Allen and W. L. Hallett performed the operation, taking the arm off above the elbow. ( d) The patient is doing well and no further trouble is anticipated." June 5, 1891: "H. D. Fuller lost a valuable cow on Wednesday, the animal dying after a short illness." After his marriage Hiram kept one cow, a flock of hens, and had a sizeable garden to raise vegetables for family use. He also had a horse and carriage, and sometimes owned two horses. The last horse he owned was named "Daisy", and it was given or sold to his sons at the time they bought the wheelwright shop. July 17, 1891: OBITUARY "Hiram D. Fuller died at his residence, School street, Monday (July 13), aged 56 years and 13 (c) Necrosis - bone destruction caused by gangrene. (d) The operation was done at home, on the kitchen table! 280 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER

days. The deceased had been a sufferer for a long time, and not long since submitted to the amputation of an arm in an effort to preserve his life. The best medical skill and care proved unavailing, and he gradually failed until the end came Monday morning. "Mr. Fuller came to Mansfield some nine years ago, and in his residence here he had earned the respect and esteem of all with whom he came in contact. Of a quiet, unassuming nature, yet he drew men to him rather than repelled them. His honest integrity had given him an enviable reputation among his fellowmen. He was a member of the Baptist Church and Rev. Mr. Tunnell officiated at the funeral services, which occurred at the late residence of the deceased Wednesday at 2 P.M. The Baptist Church quartette sang. The floral offerings were very beautiful and included a broken column, Mrs. Fuller; pillow, bearing word "father", children; wreath, C. L. Hallett; bouquets, Mrs. I. C. Fuller, Mrs. T. H. Poole. The pall bearers were W. C. Winter, W. H. Angell, J. B. Moran, I. G. Hodges. The remains were interred in Spring Brook Cemetery." July 17, 1891: Card of Thanks. "Mrs. S. C. Fuller and family wish to express sincere thanks to their friends for the many tokens of kindness received during the past months of affliction; also the singers, bearers, and all who showed their sympathy in the time of bereavement."

Hiram's Burial Hiram was buried in Spring Brook Cemetery in lot No. 331. This is a fifteen grave lot, measuring 20 x 30 ft. A plain stone of pink Westerly (R.I.) granite was purchased by the family, and placed in the center of the lot. It has FULLER in raised lettering, and the top section is polished on all sides. This was one of the first low and solid appearing stones used in this cemetery, and departed from the previous vogue of tall monument types of various ornateness. The grave markers and posts at the corners of the lot are of the same granite unpolished. The total cost of the lot and stones was about $600. None of his children had married at the time of his death. However, they were all living at home, and thus could help their mother through these last weeks of his illness. Lunette, the oldest, was nearly 30, and Harold, the youngest, was 15. HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 281

ESTATE OF HIRAM DEXTER FULLER Hiram made a will, but it was not correctly witnessed and accordingly not accepted by Probate Court. He intended to leave all of his remaining property to his wife Susan. The School street house and land was jointly owned, and one-half of the full value was included in the appraisal. His wagon shop and equipment had just been sold to Herbert and Edgar, and the money received was doubtless deposited in Susan's name. All of the legal papers pertaining to settlement of the estate are in envelope No. 7703 at Bristol County Registry of Probate at Taunton. Most of the actions are also in the copy books. The legal papers are printed forms, but they have the actual signatures of the participants. The Probate Judge handling the case was William E. Fuller of New Bedford, who was not a direct relative. A petition to administer the estate was filed in Probate Court, New Bedford, July 29, 1891, by Susan C. Fuller. It was approved by Judge Fuller August 7th. On the same day, Susan was bonded for $6,000 as administratrix, with Herbert and Edgar signing as co-bondsmen. The estate was advertised in the Mansfield News for three weeks, commencing August 25, 1891. 282 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER

On September 25th Judge Fuller appointed Hale S. Luther, Dewitt C. Carpenter, and Charles Perry, all of Rehoboth, to appraise the estate. The appraisal was returned to Court October 9th by Susan C. Fuller, and accepted by the Judge. The items reported were: Schedule of personal property: Note against Herbert C. Fuller ...... $ 175.00 Schedule of Real Estate: In Mansfield ...... $1750.00 In Rehoboth: Geo. H. Goff wood lot ...... 50.00 Timothy Fuller wood lot ...... 100.00 House and lot ...... 500.00 Total ...... $2575.00 It seems evident from the above inventory of personal property, that Hiram gave his bank accounts and any other valuables to Susan before he died. There was no good reason why he shouldn't, especially as he must have realized that his operation was not a success, and that his remaining days were few. On March 29, 1892, a list of debts owed by the estate was filed at Probate Court by Susan C. Fuller, consisting of eleven items totalling $344.04. Dr. Allen's bill of $135.60 was included. On December 12th, Susan petitioned the Court concerning her problem in paying the debts: As the value of personal estate is insufficient to pay the debts it is necessary to sell real estate in the sum of $169.04. The value of the following real estate as appraised is $ 150.00, but your petitioner is unable to find a purchaser at that price. The real estate consists of two parcels of woodland, both in Rehoboth. The first is on the east side of the road leading from the place of Timothy Cole, now or formerly to the Four Corners, so-called, containing by estimate four acres one hundred forty rods, more or less, being the same premises described in deed of Timothy Fuller to said Hiram Dexter Fuller dated December 27, 1864, recorded in Bristol County Deeds, book 276 page 83. The second parcel is situated in said Rehoboth a southwesterly course from Amos Bower's, now or formerly containing by estimation two acres, being the same premises described in deed of George H. Goff to said Hiram Dexter Fuller dated June 12, 1868, and recorded in Bristol County Deeds, book 294 page 245. HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 283

Your petitioner has an advantageous offer of $135 .00 from John N. Munroe and prays that she may be Iicenced to sell at private sale .... Signed: Susan C. Fuller, Admx. H. C. Fuller E.W. Fuller W. C. Fuller Lunette F. Hallett S. C. Fuller as guardian for Harold P. Fuller. This request to sell the real estate named was approved by Judge Fuller, at Taunton, December 16, 1892. The sale of the land to John Munroe is recorded in B. C. Deeds 509:418. The first and final accounting of the estate, showing all debts paid, was filed August 3, 1894, and allowed by Judge Fuller the same day. This completed all details of settlement. SUSAN CARPENTER (PERRY) FULLER Susan was an eighth generation descendant of the Perrys and the Carpenters, who were among the very earliest settlers of Rehoboth. Her father, Daniel Bliss Perry, was a farmer and a partner in the wood-turning shop and the grist mill at Perryville. Her uncles, James and Otis Perry, also shared in the business enterprises at Perryville, and they built the saw mill and the shingle mill. Later, her brother Charles Perry owned and operated all of these. Nothing remains today to remind one of the busy years at Perryville, except the dam on the river and the remaining stonework of the mill race. The two Perry houses and the Fuller house are still there (1968) and in good condition. At the time Susan and Hiram were married, in 1860, business activity in Perryville doubtless looked so good to the young couple that they wanted to stay right there and be a part of it. Two decades later, when their children had grown up, Perryville business had not expanded appreciably, and there seemed to be no satisfactory place in Rehoboth to employ the children. Susan's father had died in January 1879. Her mother was ill and being cared for by brother Charles. In October 1879 her brother William died. Her sister, Elizabeth had married and left Rehoboth. With these and other changes, along with the desires of her children, Susan probably felt 284 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER there was no sound reason why her family should stay in Rehoboth any longer. The move to Mansfield was accomplished in the Spring of 1882. Their new house on School Street in Mansfield must have seemed quite luxurious with its eight rooms, in comparison to the six small rooms of their Rehoboth house. They now had five acres of land, compared to their former one-half acre, and two barns instead of none. All went well for the family in their new environment, up to the time when Hiram's right arm became so troublesome that he had to turn his business over to the two older boys. He lived for four years after this. The operation a few months before he died was a desperate but unsuccessful move to save his life. Mother Susan continued to live in the School Street house with her five children. Three of the children married and left to live in their own homes within the next year. The first to marry was Lunette, or "Nettie" as she was usually called. She married Charles L. Hallett and lived on North Main Street. Next was Edgar, who married Hattie Shepard and they lived with her father on South Main Street. William married Mary McAlpine on November 24, 1892, and went to live in their new home on Pleasant Street. About a year later, Herbert married Phoebe Chisholm of Foxboro, and she came to Mansfield to live in the School Street house. Mother Susan and young Harold (age 18) moved to an apartment upstairs, and Herbert and Phoebe lived downstairs. This writer was born in the School Street house. The administration of Hiram's estate started with Susan's petition to Probate Court on July 29, 1891, wherein she requested appointment as Administratrix. Three years later she rendered her final accounting. On April 5, 1892, Susan loaned $1,500 to her brother Charles Perry of Rehoboth. As this amount of cash does not appear in the inventory of Hiram's estate, it seems certain that he had turned over his bank accounts to Susan before he died. Charles repaid this loan July 31, 1894. On August 24, 1894, Susan paid off the mortgage held by Eliza Cook on the School Street property. The next event affecting Susan's household occurred in June 1896, when Harold left home to live in Jamaica Plain. He had been promoted to assistant station agent at the depot, and wanted to live near his work. Earlier that year, Bert and Ed had moved their new carriage repository from School Street to North Main Street across from the railroad station. With this move they discontinued all their business activity at the School Street location. On August 1st, 1897, HI RAM DEXTER 7 FULLER 285

Herbert moved his family to the 50 High Street house which he rented from Fred Paine. This would have left mother Susan alone in the School Street house, but in anticipation of this she had moved to her daughter Nettie's home on North Main Street prior to August 1st. Beginning July 30, 1897, and for three subsequent weeks, she ran a small ad in the Mansfield News: TO LET - Two good tenements - School St. Apply to Mrs. S. C. Fuller. This didn't result in suitable tenants as the ad was run nineteen more times from November 19 through March 25, 1898. Real Estate Transactions On January 18, 1899, Susan sold the West Mansfield wood lot. She sold about 1-2/3 acres on the back part of her School Street property to the Spring Brook Cemetery Association by deed of May 1, 1900. On July 30, 1900, she quit claimed about 35 acres of Rehoboth land to her brother, Charles Perry. This appears to be part of her share of her father's estate. H. C. and E. W. Fuller, on September 27, 1900, deeded the small piece of land ( 46' x 46') on which their carriage repository had been located, back to their mother. On January 12, 1901, Susan sold her half share in the Perryville house and land in Rehoboth to Herbert. On January 17, 1901, she sold a small piece of her School Street land ( 14' x 52 ') to Harry A. Fisher who then was occupying the former wheelwright shop. The selling price of each of these deeds was $ 1.00 and other valuable considerations which was the commonly stated valuation in deeds of that time. The Big Fire on School Street "STABLE BURNED AND HOUSE BADLY DAMAGED" An alarm rung in from Box 83, Drake's corner, at 1:45 this morning, (August 3, 1900) called the fire department to the burning barn and house of Mrs. S. C. Fuller on School street. The place was occupied by Ruddle L. Patton and family, the latter consisting of his wife and two daughters, his wife's father, Reuben Goldsmith. Within a few days Mr. Patton had let a few rooms upstairs to Mrs. Lina Lacy, who occupied them with two small children. It was about 1: 30 A.M. when Mrs. Patton was awak:ed by a crackling sound and became conscious of a strong odor of smoke. She at once aroused all the occupants of the house. The rooms quickly filled with smoke, and the inmates were obliged to vacate the premises in scant wrappings, some in their night 286 HI RAM DEXTER7 FULLER

dresses only. Mrs. Lacy hurried to the neighboring house of Arthur Berry, shouting an alarm as she ran, and got him to pull the fire signal. For some reason the apparatus did not signal correctly at first and the department was confused by the contradictory gongs. The fire in the meantime had made rapid headway and was burning fiercely in the barn, and the south and west part of the village was lighted up by the flames. The stable was a mass of flames and past all possibility of being saved when the department arrived, and the rear part of the house was hardly more promising. The intensity of the smoke throughout the rooms precluded the removal of all but an inconsiderable quantity of the furniture and wardrobes of the occupants. The barn, containing several tons of hay, the latter belonging to Mr. Patton, was entirely consumed, as were several outbuildings and a stack of hay near them. The rear part of the house is practically ruined and is badly damaged throughout. The firemen did marvellously well in saving the house from complete destruction, considering the progress the flames had made before their arrival. Mr. Patton and his family state the fire originated in a pile of wood and rubbish that was lying in an open cellar beneath the shed, which connected the house and barn. Some members of the family state that they had noted a strong odor of smoke on the premises inany times during the preceding day, and Miss Daisy Patton, before retiring, and quite late in the evening, looked about the house trying to find the cause. They tried to reconcile themselves with the suggestion that the odor was from the locomotive smoke of passing trains. The Patton family lost most of their furniture and practically all of their wardrobes. They held an insurance on these of $1000. Mrs. Lacy lost both furniture and clothing, upon which she had no insurance. There was an insurance of $2,000 on the house and of $500 on the stable. The house had recently been renovated in the interior and exterior. August 10: "The firemen, at the fire department house, have a unique souvenir of the fire in the Patton house, in the family clock. It is an eight day time-piece made by the New Haven Clock Co. The woodwork of the front and sides is entirely burned away and the dial gone. The base and back remain badly charred. The works, of course are fully exposed to view and although black as ink with a coating of smoke and chemicals, the clock having received a baptism of the latter while burning, are still in good running order. The firemen are hoping they will be permitted to retain the souvenir as a unique trophy of their fight with the flames. R. L. Patton has been awarded the sum of $577.34 by the underwriters for damage to his furniture and family wardrobe, by fire. HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 287

Susan's Second Marriage Edwards - Fuller A very interesting wedding occurred at the residence of Charles L. Hallett on Main street on Wednesday evening (Jan. 30, 1901), the contracting parties being Mrs. Susan C. Fuller, mother of Mrs. Hallett, and Mr. Pierpont M. (Morgan) Edwards, both being well known residents of this town. Mr. Edwards is the senior deacon of the Baptist church, of which Mrs. Fuller is also a member. The ceremony was witnessed by the children and grandchildren of the bride, the little Misses Lunette and Marion Fuller, her granddaughters, acting as bridesmaids. The ceremony was performed by Rev. W. F. Grant, pastor of the church. We join with the many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Edwards in extending them our hearty congratulations and best wishes. Mansfield News Feb. 1, 1901 Deacon Edward's house at 75 Union Street was arranged for an upstairs tenement, which was rented for $15 per month. This more than paid the taxes on the property. The Edwards lived downstairs. The Deacon had a vegetable garden in the back yard. He kept a flock of 25 or 30 hens. The back yard extended down to Kingman 's Pond, where he kept a small row boat, and occasionally caught a few fish for dinner. When Susan went to live at the Union Street house she brought some of her furniture and household equipment. A feature, unique for that time, was the carpet which completely covered the kitchen floor. My recollection is that it was an Axminster with a predominantly gray background and floral design. The kitchen had a coal fired cooking range, and the other rooms were heated by separate stoves. However, in November 1901, a central heating furnace was installed in the cellar to supply heated air to the first floor. Earlier that year full bath rooms were installed both downstairs and for the upstairs tenement. Her School Street house had given Susan an income from rents, but it was a ·responsibility to maintain. By deed dated November 28, 1902, she sold the house and about 1-1/2 acres of land to Mr. and Mrs. Wm. W. Barnes of Newton, Mass. The amount she received for the property is not stated in the deed, but she took back a mortgage for $2,300. This mortgage was paid off and cancelled December 4, 1905. The remainder of her School Street land, about 2-1/3 acres next to the Green School lot, with frontage of 323 feet on the 288 HI RAM DEXTER 7 FULLER easterly side of School Street, she sold to the Spring Brook Cemetery Corporation July 7, 1913, just before she died. The News of March 10, 1905 reports, "Mrs. P. M. Edwards is taking a course of treatment at the Massachusetts General Hospital for rheumatism." She apparently was in the hospital for about two months, as on May 12, 1905, "Mrs. P. M. Edwards has returned from a protracted treatment at the hospital in Boston." She was not cured of her rheumatism by this long treatment, but possibly her condition was ameliorated for a while. Deacon Edwards Dies Pierpont Morgan Edwards died Monday (March 20, 1911) at midnight at his home, 75 Union street, following an illness which began the preceding Tuesday with a severe cold and developed into bronchitis. Previous to Tuesday he had been in splendid health and all winter was able to go and come at his pleasure. The illness while short was severe and on the morning of his death he became unconscious and passed away without once having regained consciousness. Mr. Edwards was born Mar. 23, 1831 in Oswego, N.Y., 80 years ago. He lived in the city of his birth until he became 21 years old, then moved to Providence, R.I., where he was employed for 26 years in the American Screw Works. In 1876 he married his first wife and she died in I 899 after 23 years of married life. Thirty-three years ago he left Providence and after living a year in South Foxboro came to Mansfield and built the house he occupied at the time of his death, making a continuous residence at 75 Union street of 32 years. He worked as a machinist for Corney & Co over 10 years and then found employment in Foxboro at a similar occupation, and after I 5 years of faithful performance was obliged to retire from active life because of failing health. Ten years ago the 30th of last January he married Mrs. Susan Fuller, who survives him. Mr. Edwards joined the First Baptist church of Oswego City when he was 18 years old, and one of his fond reminiscences was the story of how he assisted in hauling logs and doing other work to build that church. When he moved to Providence he transferred his membership to the Stuart street Baptist church and 32 years later again had his name transferred, this time to the Mansfield Baptist church, in which society he was senior deacon and one of the trustees. He had been a deacon over 30 years. Mr. Edwards was a regular attendant at the services in the Baptist church, each Sunday finding him reverently at worship in his accustomed pew. He was a Christian man and loved the life c,' ~uch, and next to his home, where he was all that a husband should be, it will be the church HI RAM DEXTER7 FULLER 289

where he will be most missed, for he was wise in counsel and interested himself in every church matter that came within his jurisdiction. Besides his widow he leaves three brothers, Samuel 0., Ai, and Timothy C. Edwards all of Oswego. Mrs. Edwards had planned weeks ago to have a quiet observance of Mr. Edward's 80th birthday, but death changed all and in place of a happy event there was grief and sorrow. There was a sorrowful solemnity to the funeral held yesterday afternoon at 2, for, as he wished, no flowers were in evidence. The words of the minister, Rev. A. J. Hutchins, comforted the bereaved relatives and told simply and briefly a eulogium to a truly good man whose life was free from sin or guile. Mrs. W. L. Winter and Miss Hattie Winter sang the deceased's favorite hymns, "Nearer, My God, to Thee," and "Abide with Me." The bearers were Mrs. Edwards four sons. Mansfield News, March 21, 1911 Deacon Edwards Estate Deacon Edwards died intestate and widow Susan was appointed administratrix on April 14, 1911. The inventory showed personal estate valued at $2,139.67, and appraised the Union Street house at $3,200.00. The bills and expenses in settling the estate totalled about $400.00. The court transferred ownership of the house to Susan who continued to live downstairs and kept the second floor rented. Final accounting of the estate was filed May 5, 19 l 3 and allowed by the Probate Court June 6, 1913. All details of the settlement of the estate are in envelope No. 30229 at Bristol County Registry of Probate, Taunton. Susan Dies Mrs. Susan C. Edwards died at her home on Union street, yesterday morning [July 24, 1913). Although she had been a long and patient sufferer from rheumatism, the end came suddenly and her death will be a shock and a surprise to her many friends. She was known in Mansfield as a woman of fine Christian character and a devoted wife and mother, who when in health spent her time ministering to the wants of others. She was one of the most active and interested members of the Baptist church up to the time of her illness. Mrs. Edwards was born in Rehoboth, Mass., about 75 years ago. Her parents were Daniel B. and Lydia A. (Carpenter) Perry, both natives of Rehoboth. Her first husband was Hiram Fuller by whom she had four sons, Herbert C., Edgar W., and William C. of Mansfield, and Harold P. of Newton, and one daughter, Mrs. Charles L. Hallett, also of Mansfield. 290 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER

Her second husband, to whom she was married about 12 years ago was Pierpont Morgan Edwards. He died two years ago. The funeral services will be held from her late residence, 75 Union street, Sunday at 2 o'clock, under the direction of Rev. A. J. Hutchins. Interment will be held in Spring Brook Cemetery. Mansfield News, July 25, 1913. Will of Susan C. ( Fuller) Edwards Know all men by these presents that I, Susan C. Edwards, wife of Pierpont M. Edwards, of Mansfield, in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being of sound and disposing mind and memory do hereby make and publish this my last will and testament, hereby revoking any and all former wills by me at any time heretofore made. First. I hereby give to my husband Pierpont M. Edwards the use of all my furniture as long as he lives. After the decease of my husband I give all of my furniture to my children. Second. I give to the Mansfield Spring Brook Cemetery Corporation the sum of one hundred dollars in trust, the interest thereof to be used for the perpetual care of my lot numberd 33 I situated on Central Avenue in said cemetery in Mansfield. Third. All the rest and residue of my property both real and personal I give, devise and bequeath to my five children, Lunette A. Hallett, Herbert C. Fuller, Edgar W. Fuller, William C. Fuller, and Harold P. Fuller to be equally divided among them. Fourth. If my daughter Lunette A. Hallett shall die before my own decease, then the share of my estate which would have gone to her if she survived me shall go to my executors hereinafter named, to be held by them in trust for Charles H. Hallett and Leman F. Hallett, the children of my said daughter, and to be paid to them when they respectively arrive at the age of twenty-one years, or to be used for the benefit of said children before they arrive at the age of twenty-one years, as my executors shall think for the interest of said children of said daughter. Fifth. I hereby nominate and appoint my two youngest sons William C. Fuller and Harold P. Fuller to be executors of this my last will and testament, and I direct that they shall be exempt from furnishing surety or surities on their official bond. In witness whereof I hereto set my hand this fifteenth day of May in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and eight. HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 291

Signed, published and declared by the said Susan C. Edwards as and for her last will and testament in the presence of us who in her presence and in presence of each other and at her request hereto subscribe our names as witnesses. Marigen H. Hallett Bristol County Probate Ella S. Bayes envelope No. 33408 William A. Copeland Vol. 360, p. 6 ESTATE OF SUSAN C. (FULLER) EDWARDS In accordance with the will, William C. Fuller of Mansfield, and Harold P. Fuller of Newton, were appointed executors September 5, 1913, and were bonded without security for $20,000. The inventory of the estate was filed September 27, 1913 and showed personal property valued at $11,709.38. The Union Street house was appraised at $3,400.00. There were numerous items of expense including repairs on the house and taxes. The house was finally sold for $3,500.00 by deed dated September 30, 1916. In the final accounting and division each of the four sons received $3,025.78, and their sister Lunette $3,154.54. All of the original documents are in envelope No. 33408 at Bristol County Registry of Probate, Taunton. Memorial Window Several beautiful memorial windows have this week been placed in the auditorium of the Baptist church and also in the lower story of the front of the building, greatly enhancing the interior and exterior view. The windows are furnished by the George Payne Art Studio Company of Patterson, N. J., and correspond with those placed in the south side of the church a short time ago. The center front window is a very beautiful representation of "The Good Shepherd." It is the gift of the Fuller family, the five children of Mrs. Susan (Fuller) Edwards. The inscription reads: "In memory of Deacon Pierpont M. Edwards and Susan Fuller Edwards." The shadings in this picture are very delicately wrought and the effect is exceedingly beautiful when viewed with the proper backing of light. One of the side windows is the gift of "The Ladies Circle," one is presented by the "YPSCE," another by "Brotherhood Class." Former windows were donated by "Sunday School," "Eureka SS Class," "Philathea Class," and "Mizpah SS Class." Mansfield News, July 17, 1914 292 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER

Memorial Windows Dedicated A beautiful and impressive service was held at the Baptist church Sunday morning, the occasion being the dedication of the new Memorial windows. The scripture lesson was from the tenth chapter of John, as was the text of the sermon, "I am the Good Shepherd." The pastor, Rev. A. J. Hutchins, spoke of David, the shepherd king oflsrael, whose experience inspired him to sing "The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want." After a brief exposition of the twenty-third psalm, he spoke of Jesus the greatest Shepherd King who gave his life for his sheep. The speaker then asked the congregation to rise and look upon the representation of the Good Shepherd in the new Memorial window as the sunlight brought it out in transfiguration glory. The pastor referred to the faithful Christian lives of Deacon Edwards and Mrs. Susan Edwards, in whose memory the window was placed in the church. The congregation joined in repeating the twenty-third Psalm, after which the prayer of dedication was offered. A very helpful feature of the service was the singing of "The Ninety and Nine" with fine voice and expression by Chester Wyllie. The window can be seen to best advantage in the morning hours before is at its meridian height. The colorings and especially the shadings of the blue garment are truly wonderful. The auditorium is a very beautifully lighted room by day. Mansfield News, July 24, 1914.

SUMMARY OF DEEDS RECORDED AT BRISTOL COUNTY REGISTRY OF DEEDS, TAUNTON HIRAM D. FULLER7 AND/OR SUSAN C. FULLER Book:Page:date l. 229: 163 Timothy6 Fuller to Hiram D. Fuller, 2 Oct. 18, 1855 acres of woodland in Rehoboth. (Deed quoted in Timbthy6 chapter) ...... $ 75.00 2. 265: 150 Estate of Asaph Bliss to Hiram D. Fuller Aug. 4, 1862 ½ house with about½ acre in Perryville $ 400.00 3. 276:82 Timothy6 Fuller to Hiram D. Fuller 4 Dec.27, 1864 acres I 40 rods woodland in Rehoboth. (Deed quoted in Timothy6 chapter) ... $ 225.00 4. 294:241 Lease of land, Otis Perry to Hiram D. Nov. 15, 1865 Fuller in Perryville ...... $ 1.00/yr HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 293

5. 294:243 Heirs of Timothy6 Fuller to Hiram D. May 25, 1867 Fuller 2a 17r. woodland in Rehoboth. (Deed quoted in Timothy6 chapter) ... $ 42.12 6. 294:244 Geo. W. Goff to Hiram D. Fuller, 2 June 12, I 868 acres woodland in Rehoboth ...... $ 75.00 7. 305 :231 Hiram D. Fuller sold to Benj. Nash, 2 Oct. I 7, I 869 acres 17 rods of woodland in Rehoboth. (Item No. 5 above) ...... $ 50.00 8. 411:511,2 Eliza J. Cook to Hiram D. & Susan C. Apr. 30, 1883 Fuller house, barns, and about 6 acres on School St. Mansfield, plus 7 acres woodland in West Mansfield ...... $3500.00 9. 411:513 Eliza J. Cook, guardian, to H. D. & Apr. 30, 1883 Susan C. Fuller. (Assigns her minor son's ¼ share of property deeded under It~m No. 8 above) ...... 10. 411:514 Mortgage deed, Hiram D. & Susan C. Apr. 30, 1883 Fuller to Eliza J. Cook ...... $1500.00 11. 443:409 H. D. & S. C. Fuller to Elizabeth A. Apr.3, 1886 Dean, 1865 sq. ft. land on School St., Mansfield ...... $ 25.00 12. 495 :85 Hiram D. and Susan C. Fuller to Herbert Mar. 27, 1891 C. and Edgar W. Fuller, shop & parcel of land, School St. Mansfield ...... $ 1.00 etc 13. 495 :86 Hiram D. & Susan C. Fuller to Herbert Apr.16, 1891 C. and EdgarW. Fuller,parcel46'x46' land, School St. Mansfield ...... $ 1.00 etc 14. 467:356 Susan C. Fuller, Charles Perry and June 10, 1884 Elizabeth Durfee, to Edward E. Perry, 10 acres woodland near Perryville, Rehoboth; from their father's estate .. $ 20.00 15. 423:380 Susan C. Fuller, Charles Perry and June 19, 1884 Elizabeth Durfee, to Eliza J. Robinson, their father's house and land in Perryville ...... $1900.00 16. 505:6 Anna P. Perry to Susan C. Fuller, Apr. 5, 1892 mortgage deed for $1500 on the Charles 294 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER

and Anna Perry house in Perryville. The mortgage cancelled July 31, 1894 .... 17. 509:418 Susan C. Fuller, Admx., to John W. Dec. 28, 1892 Munroe, two lots of woodland, 4 acres 140 rods and 2 acres, from estate ofH. D. Fuller (Items No. 3 and 5 above) ... $ 135.00 18. 518:552 Eliza J. Cook to Susan C. Fuller, Aug. 24, 1894 discharge of mortgage and quit claim deed on School St. property ...... $ 1.00 etc 19. 547:458 Susan C. Fuller to Wm. P. White, seven Jan. 18, 1899 acres of woodland in West Mansfield .. $ 1.00 etc 20. 559:239 Susan C. Fuller to Trustees of Spring May 1, 1900 Brook Cemetery Ass'n., about 1-2/3 acres on easterly end of her School street house lot ...... $ 1.00 etc 21. 562:273 Susan C. Fuller and Elizabeth Durfee to July 30, 1900 Charles Perry, four tracts of land in Rehoboth, total about 50 acres, from their father's estate ...... $ 10.00 22. 578:445 H. C. & E.W. Fuller to Susan C. Fuller, Sep. 27, 1900 the 46' x 46' piece they purchased from her Apr. 16, 1891. (Item No. 13 above) $ 1.00 etc 23. 561 :422 Susan C. Fuller et ali to Herbert C. Jan. 12, 1901 Fuller, the Perryville house and ½ acre. (Item No. 2 above) ...... $ 1.00 etc 24. 567:381 Susan C. Fuller to H. A. Fisher, a Jan. 17, 1901 triangular piece 51 '6" x 14' to straighten back line of Fisher property $ 1.00 etc

SUSAN C. EDWARDS ~ DEEDS 25. 605: 59 Susan C. Edwards to Annie Jane Barnes, Nov. 28, 1902 wife of wm Barnes of Newton, Mass., the School St. house and land 210 ft. frontage ...... $ 1.00 etc 26. 578:412 Annie J. Barnes to Susan C. Edwards, Nov. 28, 1902 mortgage deed for $2300 at 6% on School St. house and land ...... HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 295

27. 605:60 Barnes mortgage paid in full and Dec. 4, 1905 cancelled ...... 28. 605:126 Charles L. Hallett to Susan C. Edwards, Dec. 16, 1905 mortgage deed for $2300 at 5%, on North Main St. house & land 84' x 148' south side of Baptist church property. (This mortgage was cancelled Jan. 1, 1914 at the settlement of Susan C. Edwards estate. 686:543) ...... 29. 679:89 Susan C. Edwards to Spring Brook July 7, 1913 Cemetery Corp. her remaining land on easterly side of School street, about 2-1 /3 acres ...... $ 1.00 etc

DEED- ESTATE OF ASAPH L. BUSS TO HIRAM D. FULLER Know all men by these Presents, that whereas I, Joseph Wilbar of Taunton in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Administrator of the goods and estate of Asaph L. Bliss, late of Rehoboth, deceased, by an order of the Court of Probate held at Taunton within and for the County of Bristol, on the sixth day of June in the year one thousand eight hundred and sixty two, was licenced and empowered to sell and pass deeds to convey certain real estate of the said deceased, and whereas I, the said Administrator having given public notice of the intended sale, by causing notification thereof to be published once a week for three successive weeks prior to the time of sale in the newspaper called the Bristol County Republican, printed at Taunton, and having first taken oath and given the bond by law in such cases required, did on the fourth day of August in the year one thousand eight hundred and sixty two, sell by public auction the real estate of the said deceased hereinafter described, to Hiram D. Fuller of the aforesaid Rehoboth for the sum of Four Hundred Dollars, he being the highest bidder therefor. Now therefore, know ye, that I, the said Joseph Wilbar, Administrator as aforesaid, by virtue of the power and authority in me vested as aforesaid, and in consideration of the aforesaid sum of Four Hundred Dollars paid by the said Hiram D. Fuller, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, do by these presents, give, grant, sell and convey unto the said Hiram D. Fuller, a certain lot of land containing by estimation eighty rods, more or less, together with that part of the dwelling house standing on the same, also all other buildings thereon, situate in said Rehoboth, at a place called Perryville, and is bounded as described in a deed of the same premises from Simeon Walker, Administrator to Asaph Bliss as follows: Beginning at a corner of Daniel B. Perry's land, in line of the Mill lot - thence east thirteen rods by said Daniel B. Perry's land to a corner - thence south six 296 HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER rods to a corner - thence west about seven rods - thence south 32½ deg. west three rods and seven links to a corner in line of the road leading from Perry's Mills to Abel Carpenter's - said line passes through the center of the house - thence north 56 deg. west four rods to a corner - thence north 6 deg. west six rods and eight links to the first corner. To have and to hold the afore granted premises etc .... In witness whereof, I; the said Joseph Wilbar, Administrator as aforesaid, have hereunto set my hand and seal this Fourth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty two. Signed sealed & delivered Joseph Wilbar (S) in presence of Charles H. Atwood. Bristol ss. August 8, A.D. 1862, Then personally appeared the above named Joseph Wilbar Administrator, and ack­ Rec'd Jan. 9, 1863 nowledged the foregoing instrument to be and Recorded by his free act and deed. Joseph Wilbar, Register. Before me, Charles H. Atwood, B. C. Deeds 265: 100 Justice of the Peace. This house was rented after the family moved to Mansfield in 1882. By deed of January 12, 1901, mother Susan and the other children sold it to Herbert C. Fuller, who also rented it for a number of years. It was finally sold in 1910 to Mrs. Carrie T. Goff of Rehoboth. B. C. Deeds 655:266.

LEASE- OTIS PERRY, LESSOR, TO l-IlRAM D. FULLER This Indenture made this Fifteenth day of November eighteen hundred and sixty five, by and between Otis Perry, of the town of Rehoboth, County of Bristol and State of Massachusetts, on the one part and Hiram D. Fuller, blacksmith, of the Town, County, and State aforesaid, on the other part, Witnesseth, that the said Otis Perry for the consideration hereinafter mentioned, hath demised, granted, leased and doth hereby demise, grant, lease out to a small piece of land let unto said Hiram D. Fuller, his heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, situated in said Town and on my mill privileges, for the purpose of building and using the same for a Blacksmith's shop and yard. Bounded and described as follows: beginning at Northeast corner near or on the line running South by the East line of the Wheelwright's shop; then South six deg. E. fifty four feet to a stub in the ground for a corner; then South eighty four deg. W. forty four feet to a corner; then North six deg. West fifty four feet to a corner on the side of a large rock; then North eighty four deg. East forty four feet to the first mentioned corner. With a privilege to pass and repass in the passway to the road either way. Also a privilege on the North side of the new shop (which is on the North line) to repair the same. Reserving a privilege on the Northeast corner to pass and repass to the Wheelwright shop. HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER 297

To Have and to Hold the said demised premises, with the appurtenances for and during the term of Twenty years from the date hereof to be completed and ended. And the said Hiram D. Fuller for himself, his heirs, administrators, executors and assigns doth covenant and agree to pay unto said Otis Perry and his heirs, administrators, executors and assigns the sum of One Dollar annually on the fifteenth day of November. In Witness Whereof we have set our hands and seals the day and year above mentioned. Signed and Sealed Otis Perry (S) in presence of Hiram D. Fuller (S) Geo. H. Carpenter Received August 18, 1868 Recorded by Joseph Wilbur, Register. B. C. Deeds 294:241 Other Deeds The deeds for the Mansfield property on School Street will not be quoted as the details are more clearly shown on the accompanying map. This also shows how and when the property was broken up and sold. The tract on the east side of School Street originally was five acres and 62 rods. The deed also included a small piece on the west side of School Street about opposite the house, containing three fourths of an acre. This piece was sold April 3, 1886 to Elizabeth A. Dean to give her room to make a better driveway to her barn. The third item in the Eliza J. Cook deed was seven acres of woodland situated in West Mansfield. This was sold January 18, 1899 to William P. White. There are a few other deeds listed in the preceeding Summary of Recorded Deeds which will not be quoted further as they do not seem to be of material importance. HIRAM OEXTER7 FULLER 298

Spring BrooK Cemetery 398 ft.

,...., it: If) 4'- 1½ Qcres sold May r,1900 <9 Dean 1()

.,,.___ 2 i acres sold Juty7, 19l3 to Sprin<3 Broo~ Cemetery s.c.oeeds 679: 89

132 ft.

Sold to 6ornes Nov. ZB, 1902. 6.C.Deeds 605: 59

® Deeded March 27, 1891 to H.C. &. E.W.Fuller- @ Deeded Apr-ii 16, 1891 to H.C.&. E.WFuller. Deeded bod\ Sept 2 7, t900. to Susan C. Fuller. © Deedeci Moy 2 5, 1891 by Hod9es to H.C.&. E.W.Fuller. HI RAM DEXTER7 FULLER 299

PERRY FAMILY OF REHOBOTH Anthonyl Perry was the emigrant ancestor of the many Perry families in Rehoboth. Born in England about 1615, he came to New England about 1640. He married Elizabeth (surname unknown), and had a family of six children all born in Rehoboth. Anthony Perry is not on the list of first Rehoboth proprietors, but he must have been living there about the time his first child was born in 1648. On September 18, 1654, he purchased land from William Sabin in Rehoboth, which adjoined land he had previously purchased. He was made a freeman of Rehoboth by the Plymouth Court in 1670. He died in Rehoboth and was buried March 3, 1682/3. R VR 1:56. The line of descent to the Fullers is as follows: SAMUEL2 Perry, b. Dec. 10, 1648 RVR I :3. d. Apr. 13, 1706 m. Dec. 12, 1678, Mary Millar. They had seven children, their second child being: JASIELL3 Perry,b.May6, l682RVR 1:45.d.( ) m. Jan. 3, 1706/7, Rebecca Wilmarth, dau. of Jonathan2. Rebecca was born Aug. 30, 1683; d. May 17, 1736. They had eight children, the second child being: DANIEL4 Perry, b. May 9, 1710 RVR 1:125. d. Sept. 20, 1778. m. March 9, 1737 /8, Mary Walker. They had eight children, the second child being: EZRAS Perry, b. May 22, 1741 RVR 2: 181. d. ( ) m. (intentions) Feb. 13, 17G2, Jemima Titus of Attleborough. They had ten children, the third child being: EZRA6 Perry, b. Jan. 15, 1767 RVR 3: 125. d. June 1, 1850. m. Dec. I 0, 1786, Betsey Bliss, who was born Jan. 17, 1768 and died Dec. 14, 1838. They had eleven children, the seventh child being: DANIEL? Bliss Perry, b. Dec. 17, 1802 RVR 4:143. d. Jan. 4, 1879. m. Oct. 25, 1832, Lydia Ann Carpenter, dau. of Thomas6 and Susanna Carpenter. Lydia was born July 17, 1805 and died April 12, 1883. They had five children, the third child being: SUSAN8 Carpenter Perry, b. Feb. 1, 1838 R VR 5 :64. d. July 24, 1913, in Mansfield. Susan married first, HIRAM DEXTER FULLER, in Rehoboth Nov. 7, 1860. They had five children. Cf. Fuller genealogy. 300 HI RAM DEXTER7 FULLER

CARPENTER FAMILY OF REHOBOTH Williaml Carpenter was one of the 58 proprietors who first settled the town of Seekonk, later named Rehoboth. He is recorded as coming to New England on the ship "Bevis" in 1638, and lived first in Weymouth. He was a member of Rev. Samuel Newman's church and became a freeman of Weymouth in 1640. When Rev. Newman moved his church to Seekonk in 1643, the Carpenter family went with him. William Carpenter was the progenitor of a long line of Carpenter families, most of whom remained in New England for successive generations. The line of descent to the Rehoboth Fullers is as follows: WILLIAMl Carpenter b. about 1605 in England. d. Feb. 7, 1659 m. Abigail (surname unknown), b. in England. d. Feb. 22, 1687. They had seven children, (three b. in England, three b. in Weymouth, and one b. in Rehoboth). The youngest child was: SAMUEL2 Carpenter, b. about 1644 in Rehoboth. d. Feb. 20, 1682/3. m. May 25, 1660, Sarah Readaway. They had ten children, (nine sons and one daughter). Their third child was: ABIAH3 Carpenter, b. Feb. 10, 1665/6. d. April 20, 1732. m. May 30, 1690, Mehitable Reed, who was born August 1660, and died Mar. 19, 1701 /2. They had seven children, the second child being: THOMAS4 Carpenter, b. Nov. 8, 1692. d. May 3, 1779. m. Jan. 17, 1720/1, Mary Barstow, who was born in 1705, and died April 28, 1783. They had five children, the fourth child being: THO MASS Carpenter, b. Oct. 24, 1733. d. April 26, 1807. m. Dec. 26, 1754, Elizabeth Moulton, who was born July 22, 1736, and died May 17, 1804. (Thomas was a colonel in the Revolutionary War). They had twelve children, the second child was: THOMAS6 Carpenter, b. Mar. 6, 1758. d. June 20, 1837. ml May 2, 1782, Cynthia Wheaton, who was born in 1757, and died Dec. 1, 1786. They had three children. m2 Feb. 6, 1788/9, Susanna Perrin, who was born Feb. 28, 17 64, and died March 29, 1817. Six children by his second wife, Susanna, their last child being: HI RAM DEXTER7 FULLER 301

LYDIA7 Ann Carpenter, b. July 17, 1805. d. Apr. 17, 1883. m. Oct. 25, 1832, Daniel Bliss Perry. Cf: Perry genealogy. Except where otherwise stated, the birth, marriage, and death of each of the above was in Rehoboth. Most of the Carpenter names and dates can be found in the Rehoboth Vital Records. For further details of the Carpenter family, refer to Genealogical History of the Rehoboth Branch of the Carpenter Family in America, by Amos B. Carpenter, Amherst, Mass., 1890. CHAPTERIX

FULLER GENEALOGY

To more readily understand the arrangement of this genealogical chapter the line of descent is shown on the accompanying chart. The six generations from SamueI2 through Hiram Dexter? name the brothers and sisters of each generation. Those on the left of the line of descent to Hiram Dexter are the older and those on the right are the younger brothers and sisters of the direct ancestors. The number of children which each of these brothers and sisters had is shown under their name. Genealogical data, where known, will be given for each of these brothers and sisters, and also the names and birth dates of their children. Although additional data has been acquired on some of these collateral lines, yet it is not complete enough to warrant expanding this specific genealogy which was compiled principally for the benefit of the younger and future generations of my immediate lineage and family. Each of Hiram Dexter's five children is head of a family group and numbered from 1 to 5. Each family group is presented separately and covers the eighth through the eleventh generation. This part of the genealogy is complete to date of publication. Hiram Dexter and Susan (Perry) Fuller had 5 children, 16 grandchildren, 32 great­ grandchildren and 75 great-great-grandchildren, a total of 128 descendants. Of these, 75 were male and 53 were female, a ratio of 1.5 to 1.0. At this writing (December 1, I 968) 116 of Hiram's descendants are living. 302 FULLER GENEALOGY 303

SOME DESCENDANTS OF" ROBERT AMO SARAH (Bo'w'EN) FULLER

1 Ros£RT FULLER 1 1 SARAH Bowe:N

Jonathan Elizabeth John Benjamin 2 II 6 2. 7 2

3 3

4

Elizabeth Hannah 5 .J 0 5

Huldah G I 6

Emeline F. George E. Horace N. Candace 7 7 .2. I o o

family Group 1 Family Group 2 Family Group 3 Fami\y Group 4 Family Group 5 8 LUNETTE:AfuLLE HrnBmCfuLLER EoGARW fuLLER w'1 LUAM C.fuLLER HAROLD PFuLLER 8 CHARLES HALLETT PHOEBE CHISHOLM HATTIE SHE.PARO MARY MCALPINE BESSIE HoOGES

9 Children 9

10 i;'children 10

H Cgchildren 11

CCF. Ocr: I, 1968 304 FULLER GENEALOGY

FIRST GENERATION ROBERTI FULLER b. about 1615, in England. d. May 10, 1706, Rehoboth, R I: I 82 m 1 about 1639, probably at Salem SARAH BOWEN, dau. of Richard and Ann Bowen. b. ca 1616, Wales, England. d. (buried) Oct. 14, 1676, Rehoboth, R 1 :54 Children: (probable birth dates) I. Jonathan b. ca 1640, probably at Salem 2. Elizabeth b. ca 1645, probably at Salem 3. John b. ca 1647, probably at Salem 4. SAMUEL2 b. ca I 649, probably at Salem 5. Abigail b. ca. 1653, probably at Rehoboth 6. Benjamin b. ca 1657, probably at Rehoboth m2 about 1677, probably at Salem, MARGARET (FELTON) WALLER, widow of Christopher Waller. dau. of John and Elizabeth (Thrower) Felton. b. ca 1619, in England, d. Jan. 30, 1699/00, Rehoboth, R 1:92

SECOND GENERATION (Children of Robert and Sarah (Bowen) Fuller) 1. JONATHAN FULLER b. ca 1640. d. Feb. IO, 1709, Attleborough, Mass. m. Dec. 14, 1664, at Rehoboth, R 1 :44 ELIZABETH WILMARTH, dau. Thomas and Elizabeth (Bliss) Wilmarth. b. Apr. 4, 1647, Braintree, Mass. Children: all born in Rehoboth, R 1 : 17 i. Jonathan b. Dec. 23, 1665 ii. David b. Sept. 11, 1667 iii. Daniell b. Aug. 6, 1669 iv. Robert b. June 28, I 671. d. July 28, 1671 v. Thomas b. June 28, 1671 vi. Robert b. March 2, 1673/4 FULLER GENEALOGY 305

vii. Nathaniell b. March 1, 1675/6 viii. Elizabeth b. May 12, 1678 ix. Sarah b. April 23, 1680 x. Mary b. October 1, 1681 x1. Noah b. February 12, 1683/4

2. ELIZABETH FULLER . b. ca 1645. d. Jan. 11, 1688/9, Mendon, Mass. lt)~ml Aug. 1, 1~'12 at Rehoboth, R 1:45 NEHEMIAH SABIN, son of William and _____ Sabin. b. May 28, 1647, Rehoboth R 1 :7 d. ("slain and buried") June 1676, R I :54 Children: surname Sabin, all born in Rehoboth, R I :40 i. Elizabeth b. May 10, 1673 ii. David b. Nov. 10, 1674. d. Feb. 4, 1674/5, R 1:52 iii. Daniell b. ca 1675/6 (not recorded). In Major Bradford's quit claim deed of 1689 to Rehoboth, Daniell, son of Nehemiah Sabin, is listed as an "Orphan" proprietor. Connecticut records show that he lived in Windham and died there Nov. 9, 1755. m2 April 17, 1678, at Rehoboth, R 1 :49 ELEAZER WHEELOCK of Medfield, Mass., son of Ralph & Rebecca. b. May 3, 1654, Medfield. d. Mar. 24, 1730/1, Medfield. Children: surname Wheelock iv. Elizabeth b. Jan. 2, 1678/9, Medfield v. Ralph b. Feb. 12, 1682, Mendon, Mass. vi. Mary b. Jan. 11, 1688/9, Mendon (Eleazer Wheelock m2 Mary Chenery and had four more children.)

3. JOHN FULLER b. ca 1647. d. (buried) Aug. 23, 1676, Rehoboth, R 1 :54 m. April 25, 1673, at Rehoboth, R 1 :45 ABIGAIL TITUS, dau. John and Abigail (Carpenter) Titus. b. Feb. 18, 1654, Rehoboth, R 1:19. d. May 31, 1734, Attleborough .. 306 FULLER GENEALOGY

Children: born at Rehoboth, R 1 :37 i. John b. Sept. 8, 1674. d. Oct. 4, 1747, Attleborough. ii. Abiel b. Dec. 30, 1676. d. Apr. 20, 1720, Plympton. Abigail (Titus) Fuller m2 Oct. 16, 1679, at Rehoboth, Thomas3 Cushman of Plymouth, as his second wife. Thomas3 Cushman was b. Sept. 16, 1637, at Plymouth. d. Aug. 23, 1726 at Plympton. They had four children born at Plympton, Mass. 4. SAMUEL2 FULLER b. ca 1649 d. (buried) Aug. 15, 1676, Rehoboth, R 1 :54 m. Dec. 12, 1673, at Rehoboth, R I :45 MARY IDE, dau. Nicholas and Martha (Bliss) Ide. b. Dec. 10, 1649, Rehoboth, R 1 :19. d. Mar. 25, 1718, R 2:231 Children: born at Rehoboth, R I :36 i. SAMUEL3 b. Nov. 25, 1676 Mary (Ide) Fuller m2 Dec. 27, 1677, John Redway, and had four more children: James, John, Preserved, and Martha Redway. 5. ABIGAIL FULLER b. ca 1653 (per Newton Fuller in his "Fuller Memorial") No documentary record of Abigail has been found, but she may have been killed by the Indians in King Philip's war and her death not recorded. It is my belief that she was not the Abigail Fuller who married Thomas3 Cushman. 6. BENJAMIN FULLER b. ca 1657. d. Jan. 11, 1711, Rehoboth, R 1: 186 m 1 ca 1686, probably at Salem MARY ____ d. Feb. 27, 1695/6, Rehoboth, R 1:89 Children: i. Benjamin b. Feb. 25, 1687 /8. bapt. Dec. 21, 1699 ii. John b. ca 1689. bapt. Dec. 10, 1699 iii. Mary b. ca 1691. bapt. Dec. 21, 1699 iv. Ezekiel b. Feb. 11, 1695/6, Rehoboth, R 1:165 bapt. Nov. 13, 1698 m2 Jan. 13, 1698/9, at Rehoboth, R 1: 164 FULLER GENEALOGY 307

JUDITH SMITH, dau. of Henry and Elizabeth (Cooper) Smith b. Feb. 17, 1665, Rehoboth, R 1:13. Children: all born in Rehoboth, R 1 : 165 v. Amosb.Oct.25, 1699.bapt.Dec.10, 1699 vi. Joshua b. May 15, 1701. bapt. June 1701 vii. Abie! b. Sept. 29, 1704. bapt. December 1704 (All of Benjamin's children were baptized at Rehoboth by Rev. John Greenwood, Pastor Congregational Church)

THIRD GENERATION (Children of Samuel2 and Mary (Ide) Fuller) 1. SAMUEL3 FULLER b. Nov. 25, 1676. d. Dec. 19, 1724, Rehoboth, R 2:236 m. Dec. 16, 1701, at Rehoboth, R 1: 172 DOROTHY WILMARTH, dau. of John and Ruth (Kendrick) Wilmarth b. Aug. 26, 1680, Rehoboth, R 1 :36. d. Sept. 17, 1772 (gravestone) Children: all born at Rehoboth, R 1: 109 i. Samuel b. Oct. 23, 1702 ii. Ebenezer b. Oct. 26, 1704 iii. Dorothy b. July 12, 1706 iv. Ruth b. Nov. 14, 1708 v. TIMOTHY4 b. March 8, 1710/ 11 vi. Mary b. March 9, 1712/13 vii. Moses b. Oct. 27, 1715 viii. Aaron b. Oct. 27, 1715 ix. Noah b. Aug. 4, 1721

FOURTH GENERATION (Children of Samuel3 and Dorothy (Wilmarth) Fuller) 1. SAMUEL FULLER b. Oct. 23, 1702. d. Dec. 5, 1788, Rehoboth, R 3:351 ml Feb. 16, 1726/7, at Rehoboth, by Rev. David Turner, R 2: 142 308 FULLER GENEALOGY

SUSANNA HORTON, who d. Sept. 1727, at Rehoboth, R 2:238 m2 Jan. 18, 1727/8, at Rehoboth, by Rev. David Turner, R 2: 142 WAITSTILL BROWN d. Sept. 1, 1738, Rehoboth, R 2:246 Children: all born at Rehoboth, R 2:85 i. Waitstill b. March 7, 1728/9 ii. Dorothy b. Jan. 19, 1732/3 iii. Jacob b. Nov. 6, 1734 iv. Ruth b. April 24, 1737 m3 Dec. 6, 1739, at Rehoboth, by Rev. David Turner HANNAH LAKE, dau. of Gersham and Prudence (Chany) Lake b. May 13, 1717, Rehoboth, R 1: 123. d. ca Oct. 3, 1807 Children: all born at Rehoboth, R 2:85 v. Samuel b. Sept. 10, 1740 vi. Nathan b. Sept. 10, 1742 vii. David b. Oct. 20, 1744 viii. Nathaniel b. March 15, 1748 ix. Hannah b. Feb. 3, 1749/50 x. Jesse b. Jan. 31, 1752 xi. Susannah b. Jan. 23, 1754. d. July 3, 1772, R 3:365 xii. Lois b. Feb. 3, 1756 xiii. Rhoda b. Feb. 7, 1758 xiv. Daniel b. April 24, 1760

2. EBENEZER FULLER b. Oct. 26, 1704. d. Oct. 2, 1773, Rehoboth, R 3:367 m. June 1, 1731, at Rehoboth, R 2: 143 RACHEL ROBINSON, dau. of John and Judith Robinson b. June 7, 1706, Rehoboth, R 1 :98. d. Oct. 25, 1788, R 3:374 Children: all born at Rehoboth, R 2: 108 i. Abiah b. July 10, 1733. d. July 23, 1733, R 2:242 ii. Judith b. July 2, 1734. d. Dec. 26, 1751, R 3:359 iii. Jemima b. Feb. 27, 1736/7 iv. Noah b. Feb. 26, 1738/9 FULLER GENEALOGY 309

v. Ebenezer b. April 23, 1741 vi. Levi b. March 1, 1745/6 3. DOROTHY FULLER b. July 12, 1706. d. Jan. 7, 1778, Rehoboth, R 3:368 m. Jan. 26, 1725/6, at Rehoboth, by Rev. David Turner, R 2: 139 DANIEL BLISS, son of Jonathan and Miriam (Carpenter) Bliss b. Jan. 21, 1701/2, Rehoboth, R 1:86. d. Aug. 25, 1782 Children: surname Bliss, all born at Rehoboth, R 2:65 i. Daniell b. Nov. 16, 1726 ii. Dorotha b. Jan. 23, 1728/9 iii. Jacob b. Feb. 16, 1731/2 iv. Noah b. Oct. 24, 1734 v. Ruth b. Oct. 23, 1736. d. Jan. 31, 1736/7, R 2:244 vi. Bethia b. July 18, 1738. d. Sept. 21, 1753, R 3:358 vii. Joseph b. May 3, 1742 viii. Sibbell b. Oct. 2, 1745 4. RUTH FULLER b. Nov. 14, 1708. d. Nov. 3, 1727, unm. at Rehoboth, R 2:238 5. TIMOTHY4 FULLER b. March 8, 1710/11. d. May 24, 1782, Rehoboth (gravestone) ml Oct. 27, 1737, at Rehoboth, by Thomas Bowen, J.P., R 2: 147 HANNAH BLISS, dau. of Jonathan and Mary (French) Bliss b. Jan. 7, 1714/5, Rehoboth R 1 :86. d. Jan. 25, 1748/9, R 2:256 Children: all born at Rehoboth, R 2: 188 i. Elizabeth b. Feb. 17, 1738/9 ii. Hannah b. Sept. 24, 1741 iii. Huldah b. Dec. 8, 1743 iv. Timothy b. Nov. I, 1745. d. Nov. 22, 1745, R 2:253 m2 July 2, 1749, at Rehoboth, by Elder Richard Round, R 2:262 ELIZABETH THURBER, dau. of Jonathan and Mehittabell Thurber 310 FULLER GENEALOGY

b. Dec. 16, 1723, Rehoboth, R 2:66. d. May 1801, Rehoboth Children: v. Sarah b. May 5, 1750 vi. TIMOTHYS b. Nov. 21, 1751 vii. Mehittable b. March 10, 1755 viii. Amos b. May 27, 1760. d. Apr. 1, 1778 (Cont. Army)

6. MARY FULLER b. March 9, 1712/13. d. ca 1771, unm. at Rehoboth. (from 1760 to 1771 Mary was supported by the town at a cost averaging I:, 11 per year.) 7. MOSES FULLER b. Oct. 27, 1715. d. April 9, 1766, Rehoboth (gravestone) m. Jan. 27, 1739/40, at Rehoboth, by Rev. David Turner, R 2: 153 MARY (BLISS) PECK, dau. of Jonathan and Mary (French) Bliss b. Nov. 23, 1712, Rehoboth, R 1 :86. Children: all born in Rehoboth, R 2:99 i. Keziah b. Nov. 9, 1740 ii. John b. Oct. 29, 1743 iii. Rachel b. March 27, 1748 iv. Mary b. July 12, 1750 v. Rebekah b. Nov. 18, 1753 (Mary had three children by her first husband, Joseph Peck, Jr.) 8. AARON FULLER b. Oct. 27, 1715. d. May 2, 1789, Rehoboth, R 3:374 ml Oct. 2, 1740, at Rehoboth, by Rev. David Turner, R 2:155 RACHEL BLISS, dau. of JonathaR and Mary (French) Bliss b. Aug. 10, 1719, Rehoboth, R 1:86. d. June 3, 1745, R 2:253 Children: born in Reho both, R 2: 214 i. Aaron b. May 6, 1742 ii. Bethia b. Oct. 27, 1743 m2 Sept. 1, 1747, at Rehoboth, by Rev. John Greenwood, R 2:261 FULLER GENEALOGY 311

BETHIA READ, dau. of Ezekiel and Mary Read b. July 13, 1718, Rehoboth, R 2:194. d. Apr. 11, 1766, R 3:363 (gravestone reads "died Apr. 16, 1765, in 45th year) Children: iii. Rachell b. Nov. 14, 1748 iv. Abiah b. Jan. 11, 1749/50 v. Amie b. April 18, 1751 vi. Judith b. Dec. 30, 1752 vii. Abell b. Nov. 12, 1755 viii. Asa b. Aug. 25, 1758 ix. Rinda b. March 23, 1761 m3 March 10, 1768, at Rehoboth, by Elder Samuel Peck, R 3:348 MARTHA READ 9. NOAH FULLER b. Aug. 4, 1721. d. May 21, 1731, Rehoboth, R 2:340

FIFTH GENERATION (Children of Timothy4 and Hannah (Bliss) Fuller) 1 . ELIZABETH (BETTE) FULLER b. Feb. 16, 1738/9. ml Feb. 14, 1768/9, at Bristol, R.I., as his second wife LENNOX BULLOCK, son of Daniel and Leah Bullock b. Nov. 23, 1726, Rehoboth, R 2:4. d. Dec. 21, 1779, Rehoboth (his first wife, Submit Burton, d. at Bristol, April 25, 17 64) Children: Bristol Vital Records 2: 16 and 18, under deaths lists the following. No births are recorded. _____ Bullock, child of Lennox, 2 years, Sept. 3, 1773. _____ Bullock, d. June 20, 1774 _____ Bullock, d. Aug. 17, 1775 m2 Sept. 24, 1789, at Attleborough, as his second wife NOAH CLAFLIN of Wrentham, son of Noah and Hannah Claflin 312 FULLER GENEALOGY

b. Mar. 25, 1735, Attleborough, d. Aug. 11, 1825, Attleborough. Children: none recorded in Attleborough. Noah had six children by his first wife, Keziah (Carpenter), who d. Oct. 7, 1788.

2. HANNAH FULLER b. Sept. 24, 1741. d. Jan. 7, 1827, unm. at Rehoboth, R 5: 1

3. HULDAH FULLER b. Dec. 8, 1743. d. July 23, 1776, Willington, Conn. m. Oct. 17, 17 65, at Rehoboth, by Rev. Robt. Rogerson, R 3:345 PETER KNAP, son of Seth and Judith Knap b. Nov. 30, 1741, at Taunton. Children: surname Knap i. Peter b. July 26, 1766, Taunton, R 3: 161 ii. Asa b. Jan. 21, 1768, Taunton iii. Abel b. July 15, 1769, Taunton iv. Huldah b. Apr. 7, 1771, Willington, Conn. v. Hannah b. Mar. 26, 1773, Willington, Conn. vi. Ebenezer b. July 5, 1776, Willington, Conn. (Peter Knap m2 Jan. 15, 1777, at Willington, Conn., Jerusha Mason, and had four more children: Jerusha, Mason, Nathan, and David.)

4. TIMOTHY FULLER b. Nov. 1, 1745. d. Nov. 22, 1745, Rehoboth, R 2:253 (Children of Timothy4 and Elizabeth (Thurber) Fuller)

5. SARAH FULLER b. May 5, 1750. m. Dec. 21, 1775, at Rehoboth, as his second wife, R 3: 288 WILLIAM CARPENTER, son of Rev. William and Abigail (White) Carpenter. (He had two children by his first wife, Elizabeth Briggs.) b. Jan. 21, 1736/7, Attleborough. d. March 30, 1784, Norton FULLER GENEALOGY 313

Children: surname Carpenter, born at Norton, Mass. i. Elizabeth b. Feb. 19, 1777 ii. Samuel b. Feb. 22, 1779 iii. Ebenezerb. June 15, 1781 iv. Sarah b. May 14, 1783

6. TIMOTHYS FULLER b. Nov. 21, 1751. d. Dec. 1, 1809, Rehoboth (bible record) m. May 12, 1791, at Rehoboth, by Elder Jacob Hix, R 4:235 MARY (MOLLY) MED BURY, dau. of Ebenezer and Mary (Ide) Medbury b. March 31, 1763, Rehoboth, R 3:36. d. Feb. 20, 1821, Rehoboth Children: all born at Rehoboth, R 3:383 i. Huldah b. Sept. 25, 1792 ii. Polly b. April 19, 1795 iii. Hannah b. Dec. 15, 1796 iv. TIMOTHY6 b. Nov. 15, 1799

7. MEHITTABLE FULLER b. Mar. 10, 1755. d. May 2, 1843, Rehoboth. R 5 :7 m. Dec. 10, 1778, at Rehoboth, by Elder Jacob Hix. R 3:291 BENJAMIN BULLOCK, son of Hezekiah and Jemima Bullock. b. Sept. 25, 1753, Rehoboth, R 2:168. d. Feb. 21, 1850, R 9:7 (He had two children by his first wife, Esther Perry, who died Jan. 13, 1778, R 3 :369.) Children: surname Bullock, all born in Rehoboth, R 3:400. i. Huldah b. Oct. 25, 1779 ii. Hezekiah b. May 13, 1781 iii. Sarah b. Mar. 27, 1783 iv. Lydia b. June 19, 1785 v. Timothy b. May 24, 1789 vi. Mehitable b. Feb. 27, 1792 vii. Nancy b. Aug. 7, 1794 viii. Benjamin b. Aug. I, 1796 ix. Candace b. Sept. 8, 1798 x. Roxey b. Sept. 8, 1798 314 FULLER GENEALOGY

8. AMOS FULLER b. May 27, 1760. d. Apr. 1, 1778. (Continental Army records)

SIXTH GENERATION (Children of Timothy5 and Mary (Medbury) Fuller) 1. HULDAH FULLER b. Sept. 25, 1792, d. May 3, 1836, Rehoboth, R 5:3 m. Intentions filed Dec. 24, 1831. JACOB GOFF, son of Israel and Sarah Goff. b. Jan. 11, 1788, R 3:443. d. Dec. 12, 1862, Seekonk. Children: surname Goff i. Sarah E. b. Nov. 8, 1832, Rehoboth, R 5:53 (Jacob Goff m2 Sarah Ann Keith at Seekonk in 1842.) 2. POLLY FULLER b. Apr. 19, 1795. d. Apr. 26, 1875, Rehoboth, R 10:20 m. Feb. 2, 1834, at Rehoboth, by Elder Childs Luther, R 6:108 WILLIAM ADAMS, son of James and (Warner) Adams. b. July 9, 1803. d. Feb. 15, 1899, R 10:53 Children: none recorded. 3. HANNAH FULLER b. Dec. 15, 1796. d. Mar. 16, 1864, Rehoboth, R 10:8 (gravestone death March 20, 1864, Village Cemetery) m. July 18, 1824, at Rehoboth, R 5:6 EZRA FULLER, son of Levi and Olive (Miller) Fuller. b. Sept. 7, 1792, Rehoboth, R 3:326. d. Nov. 6, 1780, R 10: 15 (gravestone death October 6, l 78Q) Village Cemetery) Children: all born in Rehoboth, R 5: 20 i. Otis, b. June 28, 1825 ii. Polly Ann b. Nov. 11, 1827 iii. Cyrus b. Feb. 22, 1829 iv. Hannah b. June 17, 1831 v. Noah b. Apr. 2, 1834 vi. Olive H. b. 1836 FULLER GENEALOGY 315

4. TIMOTHY6 FULLER b. Nov. 15, 1799. d. Dec. 2, 1866, Sunday, Rehoboth, R 10:11 ml Mar. 24, 1824, at Rehoboth, by Rev. Thomas Perry, R. 5:91 OLIVE HORTON, dau. Silas and Roby (Cornet) (Baker) Horton. b. Sept. 16, 1806, Rehoboth (gravestone). d. Apr. 6, 1864, Rehoboth, "of heart disease," R 10: 9 Children: all born in Rehoboth, R 5:43 i. Jason Walker b. June 22, 1825 ii. Amos b. Oct. 6, 1826 iii. Alonzo Fitzerland b. Oct. 30, 1827 iv. Caroline Eliza b. Feb. 20, 1829 v. Mary Ide b. Feb. 1, 1831 vi. Israel Cornel b. April 23, 1832 vii. HIRAM DEXTER7 b. July 10, 1835 viii. Emeline Frances b. Sept. 24, 1836 ix. George Edwin b. Nov. 15, 1839 x. Horace Newton b. July 12, 1841 xi. Candace Emily b. July 24, 1843 m2 Feb. 5, 1865, at Rehoboth, by Rev. Gardner Clark, R 10:9 ELLEN TAYLOR, dau. of George and Elizabeth Taylor of England b. ca 1823 in England. d. Aug. 25, 1884, Providence, R.I. No children.

SEVENTH GENERATION (Children of Timothy6 and Olive (Horton) Fuller)

1. JASON WALKER FULLER

b. June 22, 1825. d. May 30, 1896, Rehoboth (gravestone) m. Intentions filed Sept. 30, 1849

PHEBE ANN ROUNDS, dau. of James and Phebe (Barnet) Rounds of Newport, R.I. b. Aug. I 4, 1834. d. June 4, 1872, Rehoboth (gravestone) 316 FULLER GENEALOGY

Children: all born in Rehoboth i. Frank W. b. May 1, 1856 ii. Delia A. b. Feb. 15, 1858 iii. Mary A. b. Sept. I 8, 1860 iv. Lucy F. b. Feb. 14, 1864 v. ArthurW. b. May 9, 1866

2. AMOS FULLER b. Oct. 6, 1826. d. Sept. 18, 1865, Cambridge, Mass. m. ----- Children: i. Amos G. b. ii. Mary E. b. __ iii. Lodema C. b. 1857, South Boston.

3. ALONZO FITZERLAND FULLER b. Oct. 30, 1827. d. Mar. 23, 1886, San Francisco. ml July 23, 1849, at Providence, by Rev. T. G. Carver NANCY FIELD, dau. of Charles Field of New York

m2 MALVINA ---- Children:

4. CAROLINE ELIZA FULLER b. Feb. 20, 1829. d. Nov. 10, 1893, Rehoboth, R 10:41 m. Nov. 28, 1850, at Rehoboth, by Rev. Gardner Clark, R 9:5 GILBERT DEXTER BULLOCK, son of Timothy and Phebe (Chase) Bullock b. May 15, 1828, Rehoboth, R 5: 10. Children: surname Bullock, born in Rehoboth i. Gilbert Dexter, Jr. b. April 18, 1855 ii. Frederick L. b. May 21, 1861 (Gilbert m2 April 30, 1895, Julia A. (Ingalls) Crocker, R 10:53)

5. MARY IDE FULLER b. Feb. I, I 831. m. Dec. 16, 1852, at Rehoboth, by Rev. Gardner Clark, R 9:7 FULLER GENEALOGY 317

IRA ALLYN MEDBERY, son of Ira and Nancy (Peck) Medbery. b. Dec. 26, 1831, Rehoboth, R 5 :45 Children: surname Medbery i. Allyn 6. ISRAEL CORNEL FULLER b. Apr. 23, 1832. d. Mar. 10, 1911, Roxbury, Mass. m. ca. 1855 MARY LOUISE LITTLEFIELD, dau. of Samuel S. and Elizabeth (Eagles) Littlefield. b. Jan. 10, 1839, Kennebunk, Me. d. Aug. 14, 1897, Roxbury. Children: all born in Roxbury i. George W. b. Feb. 19, 1857 ii. Samuel S. b. Sept. 22, 1861 iii. Frank I. b. Oct. 14, 1866 iv. Alice M. b. Apr. 10, 1870 7. HIRAM DEXTER7 FULLER b. July 10, 1835. d. July 13, 1891, Mansfield, M 3:87 m. Nov. 7, 1860, at Rehoboth, by Rev. Andrew Pollard, R 10:3 SUSAN CARPENTER PERRY, dau. Daniel Bliss and Lydia Ann (Carpenter) Perry. b. Feb. 1, 1838, Rehoboth, R 5:64. d. July 24, 1913, Mansfield, M 4:90 Children: all born in Rehoboth

1. Lunette Augusta b. Oct. 23, 1861 R 10:3 ii. Herbert Clifton b. Sept. 1, 1863 R 10:6 iii. Edgar Winfield b. Sept. 7, 1865 R 10:8 iv. William Carlton b. Dec. 24, 1867 R 10:10 v. Harold Perry b. Dec. 18, 1875 R l 0: 18 (Susan m2 Jan. 30, 1901, at Mansfield, Pierpont M. Edwards, M 4: I 4. His second marriage also. He died Mar. 20, 1911, Mansfield.) 8. EMELINE FRANCES FULLER b. Sept. 24, 1836. d. July 31, 1913, East Bridgewater, Mass. m. Dec. 7, 1865, at E. Bridgewater, by Rev. Cephas Pasco 318 FULLER GENEALOGY

CALEB T. KEENE, son of Ichabod and Tirza Keene b. 1823, at Pembroke, Mass Children: born at East Bridgewater, surname Keene i. Eliza P. b. __ , d. Mar. 1869 ii. Flora Frances b. July 6, 1870 iii. Florence Fuller b. July 6, 1870 iv. Laura J. b. Jan. 19, 1874. d. Feb. 13, 1888 9. GEORGE EDWIN FULLER b. Nov. 15, 1839. d. Dec. 31, 1889, at Brainerd, Minn. m. Oct. 1861 LOUISA ____ Children: i. Edgar Winnefred 10. HORACE NEWTON FULLER b. July 12, 1841. d. April 13, 1848, Rehoboth, R 8:4 11. CANDACE EMILY FULLER b. July 24, 1843. d. Oct. 6, 1843, Rehoboth, R 5:7

DESCENDANTS OF HIRAM DEXTER7 &SUSAN(PERRY)FULLER Arranged by Family Group with their Descendants

FAMILY GROUP 1 CHARLES L. & LUNETTE A. (FULLER) HALLETT and descendants LUNETTE AUGUSTA FULLERS, dau. Hiram Dexter7 & Susan (Perry) Fuller. b. Oct. 23, 1861, Rehoboth. d. Jan. 20, 1934, Mansfield, M 5:67 m. Sept. 9, 1891, at Mansfield, by Rev. Spencer Tunnell, M 3: 138 CHARLES LEAMAN HALLETT, son of Charles & Charlotte (Guild) Hallett. FULLER GENEALOGY 319 b. July 18, 1856, M 3:17. d. Mar. 23, 1923, Mansfield, M 4: 143. Children: (ninth generation)

I. CHARLES HIRAM HALLETT9 b. Oct. 7, 1894, Mansfield, M 3: 121 m. Nov. 15, 1934 JESSE ST ACY HALL (widow) b. Sept. 14, 1886. d. Jan. 12, 1957, Arlington, Mass. Children: none.

II. LEAMAN FULLER HALLETT9 b. Mar. 4, 1899, Mansfield, M 4: 13 m. Feb. 14, 1925, at Mansfield, by Rev. S. E. Cozad, M 4:107 FLORENCE FRANCES HARDING, dau. H. T. & Florence (Harding) Emmons. b. Sept. 13, 1903, Mansfield, M 4:31. d. Sept. 17, 1965 Children: (tenth generation) 1. RICHARD HARDING HALLETT Io b. Oct. 28, 1927, Mansfield, M 5 :34 m 1 June 21, 1948, at Providence, R.I. Katherine Jones, dau. John D. E. Jones. b. May 1928. Divorced, 1949. Children: (eleventh generation) i. RICHARD HARDING (HALLETT) (name has been changed) b. Feb. 26, 1949, Providence. m2 Aug. 19, 1950, at Jamestown, N.Y. JULIA MARY DUDLEY, dau. Franklin & Julia (Brancke) Dudley. b. Dec. 7, 1929, Jamestown, N.Y. Children: (eleventh generation) ii. MARTA HALLETT, b. Apr. 3, 1952, Boston iii. MARK DUDLEY HALLETT, b. Apr. 4, 1953, Boston 320 FULLER GENEALOGY

iv. DAVID HARDING HALLET, b. Nov. 26, 1954, Newton v. KAREN HALLETT, b. Dec. 13, 1955, Newton

2. DIANA LOUISE HALLETTl O b. Mar. 27, 1929, Mansfield, M 5 :42 m. June 11, 1954, at Trinity Church, Boston DAVID STAFFORD FLYNN, son of Donald White & Mildred (Dorrety) Flynn. b. Apr. 25, 1927, Newton, Mass. Children: (eleventh generation) i. DAVID STAFFORD FLYNN, Jr., b. Jan. 29, 1956, Melrose ii. ALISON ROGERS FLYNN, b. May 23, 1958, Melrose iii. SUSAN PERRY FLYNN, b. Jan. 22, 1961, Melrose iv. DEBORAH WHITE FLYNN, b. Aug. 29, 1964, Mansfield

* * * * *

FAMILY GROUP 2 HERBERT CLIFTON & PHOEBE (CHISHOLM) FULLER and descendants HERBERT CLIFTON FULLERS, son of Hiram Dexter7 & Susan (Perry) Fuller. b. Sept. I, 1863, Rehoboth, d. Sept. IO, 1938, Cambridge. m. Oct. 11, I 893, at Foxboro, by Rev. J. W. Flagg, M 3: 152 PHOEBE PURDY CHISHOLM, dau. Lemuel Bigney & Mary (Gemmill) Chisholm. b. Oct. 5, 1868, at Troon, Scotland. d. Apr. 7, 1949, Foxboro Children: (ninth generation) I. CLARENCE CHISHOLM FULLER9 b. Nov. 15, 1895, Mansfield, M 3: 126 m. June 10, 1922, at Medway, Mass., by Rev. Guy Miner FULLER GENEALOGY 321

DOROTHEA CARY, dau. Louis Alexander & Ellen Jane (Hodges) Cary. b. Sept. 9, 1897, Blackstone, Mass. Children: (tenth generation) I. DAVID CHISHOLM FULLER Io b. Feb. 12, 1924, East Orange, N.J. d. (missing in action) Japan, June 9, 1945

2. JANE CLAIRE FULLER I o b. Feb. 23, 1928, East Orange, N.J. m. Sept. 15, 1951, at Harvard Congregational Church, Brookline. BECK, son of Harry Nicholas & Nellie (Cummings) Beck. b. July 27, 1923, Revere, Mass. Children: (eleventh generation) i. JANET LOUISE BECK, b. June 10, 1952, Boston.

II. CORODON SPAULDING FULLER9 b. Apr. 4, 1898, Mansfield, M 4:10 m. Sept. 3, 1921, at Foxboro, by Rev. Elsworth Lawson, F 2:59 HELEN REXFORD BRISTOL, dau. Bennet Beri & Gertrude Allyn (Rexford) Bristol. b. Dec. 12, 1900, Naugatuck, Conn. Children: (tenth generation) 1. CORODON SPAULDING FULLER, Jr., M.D.10 b. Apr. 16, 1922, Foxboro, F 2:75 m. June 4, 1946, at Denton, Texas, by Rev. F. L. Shannon FRANCES ELIZABETH WILLARD, dau. Thomas A. & Velma (Gladney) Willard. b. Feb. 14, 1923, Denton, Texas. Children: ( eleventh generation) i. CORODON SPAULDING FULLER, Ill, b. May 7, 1951, Pittsboro, N. C. 322 FULLER GENEALOGY

ii. WILLIAM THOMAS FULLER, b. Jan. 2, 1959, Pittsboro

2. BENNET BRISTOL FULLERl O b. June 2, 1923, Foxboro, F 2:77 m. Feb. 9, 1948, at Pittsburgh, Smithfield Evangelical Protestant Church. JOAN MARIE LUND, dau. Lawrence H. & Marie (Daley) Lund. b. Apr. 3, 1927, Brooklyn, N.Y. Children: (eleventh generation) i. SUSAN ALLYN FULLER, b. Jan. 14, 1949, Charleston, W. Va. ii. BENNETT BRISTOL FULLER, Jr., b. Apr. 21, 1950, Foxboro, F 3:54 iii. NANCY HELEN FULLER, b. May 25, 1951, Foxboro, F 3:60 iv. AMY LUND FULLER, b. Oct. 24, 1952, Foxboro, F 3:70 v. TIMOTHY CHISHOLM FULLER, b. May 15, 1957, Foxboro, F 3:109 vi. PATRICIA REXFORD FULLER, b. Sept. 16, 1959, Foxboro, F 3: 138

3. CLARENCE REXFORD FULLERl o b. Jan. 17, 1927, Foxboro, F 2:90

4. GERTRUDE REXFORD FULLERl o b. Dec. 18, 1929, Foxboro, F 2:100 m. Sept. 10, 1949, at Foxboro, by Rev. A. P. O'Leary, F 4:20 FRANCIS CONSTANT FLORIN!, son of John & Mary (Rosasco) Fiorini. b. Sept. 7, 1919, North Adams, Mass . • Children: (eleventh generation) i. KATHERINE ANN FLORIN!, b. Sept. 9, 1950, Pittsfield, Mass. ii. DIANE ALLYN FLORIN!, b. Feb. 12, 1952, No. Adams FULLER GENEALOGY 323

iii. JOAN FRANCIS FLORIN!, b. Aug. 30, 1953, Hyannis, Mass. iv. MARGARET MARY FLORIN!, b. Jan. 2, 1956, No. Adams. v. HELEN BRISTOL FLORIN!, b. Dec. 7, 1958, No. Adams. vi. ALLYN ELIZABETH FLORIN!, b. Jan. 4, 1962, No. Adams.

5. JOHN CHISHOLM FULLERl o b. Apr. 22, 1932, Foxboro, F 2: 109 m. June 12, 1954, at Roslindale, Mass. JANET ALMA DUFRESNE, dau. of Raymond J. & Lida A. (MacRae) Dufresne. b. July 1, 1933, Boston. Children: (eleventh generation) i. JOHN CHISHOLM FULLER,Jr., b. July 19, 1955, Des Moines, Iowa ii. RAYMOND REXFORD FULLER, b. Dec. 2, 1956, Marshalltown, Iowa iii. MARJORY HELEN FULLER, b. Jan. 30, 1959, Foxboro, F 3:131 iv. JANET ALMA FULLER, b. Mar. 18, 1964, Foxboro, F 4:54 v. SARAH JEAN FULLER, b. July 10, 1965, Foxboro, F 4:69

III. WILLIAM PERRY FULLER9 b. June 17, 1901, Mansfield, M 4:22 ml July 18, 1926, at Newton Center, Mass. DOROTHY WINIFRED LAWSON, dau. Rev. George E. & Mary Isabel (Jordan) Lawson. b. Dec. 23, 1905, Halifax, N.S. d. Oct. 1, 1959, Foxboro m2 Dec. 14, 1963, at Foxboro, by Rev. Stephen Weaver ALICE (HARVEY) HAYDEN, dau. Daniel E. & Jane (Boyd) Harvey. b. Mar. 5, 1912, Cambridge, Mass. 324 FULLER GENEALOGY

Children: ( tenth generation) I. JANICE LAWSON FULLER! o b. Jan. 26, 1927, Fall River, Mass. d. Sept. 16, 1927

2. WILLIAM PERRY FULLER, Jr.lo b. July 25, 1930, Foxboro, F 2: I 03 ml May 17, 1955,atTokyo,Japan. HELEN ANDERSON SHARP, dau. Henry A. & Gladys (Graham) Sharp. b. Oct. 18, 1932, Marlinton, W. Va. Divorced April 1967 Children: (eleventh generation) i. ROGER WILLIAM FULLER, b. Feb. 15, 1957, Tachikawa, Japan ii. THOMAS EDWIN FULLER, b. Nov. 9, I 959, A. F. Base, Fairfax Co., Va. m2 Dec. 22, 1967, at Hof/Saale, W. SIGRID BETTY RIEDEL, dal.. Paul A. & Betty (Scheefeld) Riedel. b. Apr. 8, 1945, Trautenau, Czechoslovakia. 3. JOANNE FULLER Io b. May 3, 1933, Foxboro, F 2:113 m. Aug. I 0, 1951, at Hudson, N.H. ROBERT EARL ALGER, sc 0f Isaac & Ellen (Redington) Alger. b. Mar. 24, I 925, Attleborougn, 1ass. Children: (eleventh generation) i. DAVID WILLIAM ALGE.~, b. Mar. 26, 1952, Attleborough ii. LISA ANNE ALGER, b. July 19, 1958, Foxboro, F 3: 124 iii. ERICA DOROTHY ALGER, b. June 28, 1967, Foxboro, F 4:92

4. GEORGE EDWIN FULLER Io b. May 5, 1936, Foxboro, F 2: 123 m. Nov. 2, 1957, at Worcester, Mass. FULLER GENEALOGY 325

DONNA LEE SCARCELLO, dau. Dr. Nicholas S. & Edith Mae (Emerson) Scarcello. b. Feb. 10, 1936, Worcester, Mass. Children: (eleventh generation) i. CRAIG STEPHEN FULLER, b. Dec. I 0, 1960, Foxboro, F 4: 13 ii. JEFFREY LAWSON FULLER, b. Jan. 5, 1963, Foxboro, F 4:41 IV. HIRAM DEXTER FULLER9 b. Jan. 13, 1904, Mansfield, M 4:33 m. June 14, 1930, at Brookline, by Rev. C. L. Reardon MARION LUCRETIA LUCE, dau. George B. & Sarah (Murphy) Luce. b. Dec. 3, 1906, West Boylston, Mass. Children: (tenth generation) 1. HIRAM DEXTER FULLER, Jr.1 o b. Nov. 2, 1931, Foxboro, F 2:106 m. Ma'y 31, 1952, at Foxboro, by Rev. J. R. Hankins F 4:30 THERESA CLAUDETTE GRISE, dau. Felix E. & Delcia (Grenier) Grise. b. Dec. 10, 1932, Taunton, Mass Children: (eleventh generation) i.' '.r,•CHAEL DEXTER FULLER, b. Mar. 29, J ~3, Foxboro, F 3:74 ii. lATHERINE MARIE FULLER, b. Jan. 11, 1955, Foxboro, F 3:87 iii. TfIOMAS EDWARD FULLER, b. Aug. 12, 1956, Foxboro, F 3:102 iv. JANET MARGARET FULLER, b. Nov. 10, 1959, Mansfield v. JAMES DAVID FULLER, b. Feb. 27, 1963, Foxboro, F 4:40 2. SARAH LUCE FULLERIO b. Jan. 25, 1934, Foxboro, F 2:116 m. Apr. 16, 1955, at Foxboro, by Rev. J. R. Hankins F 4:42 326 FULLER GENEALOGY

FRANK LOUIS SOUZA, son of Frank & Louise (Viera) Souza. b. July 17, 1931, Brockton, Mass. Children: (eleventh generation) i. MARK DEXTER SOUZA, b. June 12, 1956, Foxboro, F 3: 100 ii. DAVID JAMES SOUZA, b. Dec. 7, 1957, Foxboro, F 3: 117 iii. ALAN FULLER SOUZA, b. Feb. 8, 1961, Foxboro, F 4: 15

V. FLORENCE FULLER9 b. June 25, 1907, Mansfield, M 4:49 m. Sept. 6, 1930, at Foxboro, by Rev. A. C. Cullens, F 2:85 EDWIN FREDERICK BLUEMER, son of John Henry & Lena (Yenker) Bluemer. b. Oct. 21, 1902, Bellows Falls, Vt. d. Dec. 2"/, 1957 Children: (tenth generation) 1. CYNTHIA ANNE BLUEMERl o b. Feb. 10, 1932, Foxboro, F 2: 108 m. June 13, 1959, at Foxboro, by Rev. S. V. Weaver, F 4:63 DAVID LAWRENCE CONKEY, son of Clarence E. & Helen (Ovans) Conkey. b. June 14, 1933, Providence, R.I. Children: (eleventh generation) i. DAVID LAWRENCE CONKEY, Jr., b. Feb. 3, 1962, Foxboro, F 4:28 ii. EDWIN FREDERICK CONKEY, b. Sept. 27, 1965, No. Easton. iii. ANDREW DELAND CONKEY, b. Oct. 9, 1967, No. Easton. 2. LORINDA JANE BLUEMERI o b. Sept. 17, 1936, Foxboro, F 2: 124 m. Dec. 13, 1964, at Sharon, Mass., by Rev. S. V. Weaver FULLER GENEALOGY 327

MURRAY FEINGOLD, M.D., son of David A. & Molly (Steiner) Feingold. b. July 20, 1930, Hazelton, Pa. Children: (eleventh generation) i. RACHAEL FLORENCE FEINGOLD, b. Oct. 1, 1966, Manchester, Mass. ii. JUSTIN DAVID FEINGOLD, b. Sept. 30, 1968, Boxford, Mass.

* * * * * FAMILY GROUP 3 EDGAR WINFIELD & HATTIE (SHEPARD) FULLER and descendants EDGAR WINFIELD FULLERS son of Hiram Dexter7 & Susan (Perry) Fuller. b. Sept. 7, 1865, Rehoboth. d. Nov. 10, 1915, Mansfield, M 4:104 m. Oct. 21, 1892, at Mansfield, by Rev. Spencer Tunnell. M 3: 146

HATTIE MARIA SHEPARD, dau. Lewis Richards & Martha Maria (Cobb) Shepard. b. June 3, 1868, Mansfield, M 3:27. d. May 11, 1925, Natick, Mass. Children: (ninth generation) I. LUNETTE SHEPARD FULLER9 b. Aug. 8, 1893, Mansfield, M 3: 116 m. Apr. 12, 1917, at Mansfield, by Rev. A. J. Hutchins, M 4:65 LESLIE EUGENE WOODS, son of Frank E. & Clara (Sanford) Woods. b. Jan. 27, 1892, Natick. d. Feb. 3, 1965, Natick. Children: (tenth generation) l. PHYLLIS ADELE WOODSl o b. May 17, 1922. d. May 19, 1922. 328 FULLER GENEALOGY

2. JEANE LUNETTE WOODSl0 b. Apr. 4, 1924, Natick m. Aug. 7, 1943, at Mt. Juliet, Tenn. GALE LAKIN VANCE, son of Wm. H. & Olive (Howard) Vance. b. July 23, 1924, Boston. Children: (eleventh generation) i. WILLIAM BRADFORD VANCE, b. Aug. 10, 1946, Natick. ii. ROSALYN JEAN VANCE, b. May 18, 1951, Natick. iii. LAURA LUNETTE VANCE, b. Mar. 9, 1956, Natick. 3. EDGAR FULLER WOODSI0 b. Aug. 9, 1926. II. GERTRUDE INEZ FULLER9 b. Jan. 3, 1896, Mansfield, M 4: 1. d. Dec. 30, 1896, M 4:3 III. . MERRILL WINFIELD FULLER9 b. Sept. 20, 1897, Mansfield, M 4:7. d. Feb. 27, 1904, M 4:34 IV. WALTER LEWIS FULLER9 b. May 13, 1900, Mansfield, M 4:18. d. Mar. 9, 1904, M 4:34

* * * * * FAMILY GROUP 4 WILLIAM CARLTON & MARY (McALPINE) FULLER and descendants

WILLIAM CARLTON FULLER8, son of Hiram Dexter? & Susan (Perry) Fuller. b. Dec. 24, 1867, Rehoboth. d. Jan. 13, 1944, Mansfield, M 6:51 m. Nov. 24, 1892, at Mansfield, by Rev. Spencer Tunnell, M 3:146 FULLER GENEALOGY 329

MARY GEM McALPINE, dau. Charles A. & Eliza (King) McAlpine. b. Feb. 8, 1870, Maynard, Mass. d. Mar. 25, 1953, Mansfield, M 6:137 Children: (ninth generation) I. MARION BERENICE FULLER9 b. Dec. 30, 1893, Mansfield, M 3:117 m. Aug. 14, 1926, at Mansfield, by Rev. R. M. Barker, M 4: 113 NORMAN HARRISON SEYMOUR VINCENT, son of Norman Edmund & Alice (Seymour) Vincent. b. May 14, 1894, Sweetsburg, Quebec, Canada. Children: (tenth generation) 1. ALICE SEYMOUR VINCENTI o b.June 13, 1928,Bo~on m. Apr. 14, 1951, at Newton Center, First Baptist Church. LOWELL FRANKLIN WENTWORTH, son of Lowell Roger & Elizabeth (Waide) Wentworth. b. Feb. 19, 1927, Somerville, Mass. Children: (eleventh generation) i. NORMAN ROGER WENTWORTH, b. June 13, 1954, Woburn, Mass. ii. PETER DOW WENTWORTH, b. Sept. 19, 1955, Woburn iii. ROBERT FULLER WENTWORTH, b. Dec. 16, 1958, Woburn iv. CAROL ELIZABETH WENTWORTH, b. Apr. 20, 1961, Woburn.

2. WILLIAM FULLER VINCENTl o b. Sept. 4, 1929, Newton, Mass. m. Oct. 6, 1951, at Bedford, N.H. REBECCA ROBERTSON, dau. John & Isabel (Brooks) Robertson. b. Sept. 2, 1931, London, Ontario. 330 FULLER GENEALOGY

Children: ( eleventh generation) i. CRAIG FULLER VINCENT, b. Oct. 17, 1953, Newton. ii. RICHARD WILLIAM VINCENT, b. May 25, 1955, Littleton, Mass. iii. MARTHA JANE VINCENT, b. May 25, 1959, Littleton, Mass. 3. NORMAN FULLER VINCENTl0 b. Oct. 5, 1930, Newton, Mass. ml Nov. 28, 1953, at Washington, D.C. SALLY HIGH STENGEL, b. May 21, 1931, Divorced 1958. Children: (eleventh generation) i. PETER NORMAN VINCENT, b. Jan. 21, 1958, Jacksonville, Fla. m2 Oct. 25, 1959, at Jacksonville, Fla. VIVIAN CARRAWAY Children: (eleventh generation) ii. DEAN HARRISON VINCENT, b. Oct. 8, 1960, Jacksonville. iii. LESLIE ANN VINCENT, b. Sept. 10, 1965, Jacksonville. II. CARLTON PERRY FULLER9 b. Jan. 20, 1898, Mansfield, M 4:9 m. Oct. 1, 1921, at Appleton Chapel, Cambridge, Mass. DOROTHY CHOATE MASON, dau. Frank Stillman & Bertha (Kent) Mason. b. July 25, 1898, Boston. Children: (tenth generation) 1. ELSBETH HOYTE FULLER Io b. Oct. 6, I 923, Westfield, N.J. m. Sept. 19, 1953, at Riverside Church, . THOMAS CARLYLE SWOPE, son of Joseph R. & Elizabeth (Gill) Swope. b. Apr. 8, 1910, Johnstown, Pa. FULLER GENEALOGY 331

Children: ( eleventh generation) i. PERRY GILL SWOPE, b. Jan. 4, 1955, Doylestown, Pa. ii. DARCY MASON SWOPE, b. Jan. 28, 1957, Barrington, R.I. iii. PAUL FULLER SWOPE, b. Nov. 23, 1958, Barrington, R.I. 2. JOYCE GREENOUGH FULLERl o b. July 15, 1926, Westfield, N.J. m. Jan. 1, 1945, at Christ Church, Cambridge, Mass. ROBERT BALDWIN, Jr., son of Robert & Frances (Benedict) Baldwin. b. May l, 1924, Cambridge, Mass. Children: (eleventh generation) i. SUSAN KENT BALDWIN, b. June 12, 1947, Boston. ii. NANCY BENEDICT BALDWIN, b. Sept. 24, I 949, East Orange, N.J. iii. AMY CARLTON BALDWIN, b. Jan. 31, 1952, Morristown, N.J. iv. JENNIFER MASON BALDWIN, b. Oct. 7, 1955, Summit, N.J.

3. KENT MASON FULLERI0 b. Oct. 6, 1927, Westfield, N.J. d. Aug. 1, 1957, Berkeley, Calif. m. Dec. 11, 1954, at Harvard Memorial Church, Cambridge, Mass. HALLIE VIRGINIA ANGEVINE, dau. Jay B. & Hallie Virginia (Corbett) Angevine. b. July 6, 1933, Cambridge, Mass. Children: (eleventh generation)

1. DOUGLAS KENT FULLER, b. Dec. 19, 1957, Boston.

* * * * * 332 FULLER GENEALOGY

FAMILY GROUP 5 HAROLD PERRY & BESSIE (HODGES) FULLER and descendants HAROLD PERRY FULLERS, son of Hiram Dexter? & Susan (Perry) Fuller. b. Dec. 18, 1875, Rehoboth, d. Mar. 19, 1963, Newton, Mass. m. Oct. 9, 1901, at Medway, by Rev. Hiram K. Pervear. BESSIE BERNARD HODGES, dau. William Bernard & Emma Sophia (Cobb) Hodges. b. Jan. 17, 1880, Medway, Mass. d. Sept. 23, 1965, Newton Center. Children: (ninth generation) I. ROSCOE HODGES FULLER9 b. July 30, 1903, Somerville, Mass. m. Aug. 14, 1926, at Ithaca, N.Y. BARBARA ELLIS TREVOR, dau. Joseph Ellis & Mary Tutt (Guild) Trevor. b. Aug. 25, 1901, Ithaca, N.Y.

Children: (tenth generation) I . ALAN CLARKE FULLER 1 o b. June 20, 1927, Springfield, Mass. m. Aug. 27, 1955, at Portsmouth, N.H. ANN BADGER, dau. Paul Combs & Marion (Mansfield) Badger. b. Jan. 26, 1932, Portsmouth, N.H.

Children: (eleventh generation) i. JONATHAN ELLIS FULLER, b. Dec. 19, 1957, Stamford, Ct. ii. MARIANNE MANSFIELD FULLER, b. Dec. 15, 1958, Stamford. iii. SAMUEL BADGER FULLER, b. May 19, 1961, Stamford.

II. HORACE SHEPARD FULLER9 b. Nov. 6, 1908, Somerville, Mass. FULLER GENEALOGY 333

m. Apr. I 3, 1935, at Church of Good Shepherd, Watertown, Mass. MARGARET LEONTINE HACH, dau. John Peter & Margaret Anna (Possett) Hach. b. July 25, 1907, Malden, Mass. Children: (tenth generation) 1. TIMOTHY FULLERI o b. Jan. 15, 1940, Chicago, Ill. m. Oct. 12, 1963, at Trinity Church, Towson, Md. KALAH POWERS, dau. Charles Elliott & Rosalie (Jackson) Powers. b. Dec. 18, 1938, Indianapolis, Ind. 2. JOHN HACH FULLER Io b. Feb. 10, 1943, Chicago.

III. BARBARA LOUISE FULLER9 b. Apr. 7, 1912, Newton, Mass. m. Sept. 24, 1938, at Newton. RICHARD HAVELOCK MOORE, son of Ernest Havelock & Helen Moore. b.July 17, 1911,d.May22, 1959. Children: (tenth generation) I. CHRISTOPHER LEE MOORE Io b. July 29, 1941, Framingham, Mass. rn. July 10, 1965, at Eliot Church, Newton PATRICIA ANNE GREENE, dau. John W. Greene. b. Nov. 30, 1940, Seekonk, R.l. Children: (eleventh generation) i. CHRISTIAN HAVELOCK MOORE, b. Feb. 5, 1966 11. DANA WESLEY MOORE, b. June 17, 1967

2. HAROLD ELLIOTT MOOREl O b. Sept. 13, 1943, Framingham, Mass. 3. RICHARD HAVELOCK MOORE, Jr.lo b. Feb. 14, 1950, Lancaster, N.H. GLOSSARY

Double Dates. Previous to 1752, the legal year began on the 25th of March which was called the first month. February was the twelfth month. A date between January I and March 25 was double dated, i.e., January 15, 1710/11. The current year then was 1710, and 1711 would be the year according to our present calendar which starts a new year January I. English Currency. t = pound; s = shilling; d =pence; f = farthing. 1 t = 20 shillings I s = 12 pence I d = 4 farthings General Court. At Plymouth, the Governor and his seven Assistants, elected annually. Each town in the colony elected two Deputies annually to attend the Court to join in enacting all laws and ordinances. Goodman. Appellation of civility equivalent to "Mister," prefixed to the names of persons, as yeomen, under the rank of gentleman. Land Measurements. (present day standard) l Rod = 16½ feet l Link = 7.92 inches l sq. rod = 272¼ sq. feet l acre = 160 sq. rods = 43,560 sq. feet 1 sq. mile = 640 acres Rate. A designated proportion of a taxpayer's holdings, expressed as a part of each Sterling pound of value, i.e., 6d per b. Selectmen. Governing officers elected annually in New England towns to transact public business. The first board of three selectmen was elected in 1666 in Rehoboth, and a separate board of Townsmen was also elected that year. Townsmen. Earliest title of the elected governing board, later called selectmen. Tithing-man. A parish officer elected annually to preserve good order in church during divine service, and to enforce observance of the Sabbath. Yeoman. A proprietor or freeholder who owns and cultivates his own land. Lower in rank than gentleman. 334 ABBREVIATIONS

Used in Deeds and General Text: B. C. Deeds Bristol County Deeds (book:page) E. C. Deeds Essex County Deeds (book:page) EBS East by South (surveys) WBN West by North (surveys) RLR Rehoboth Land Records (book:page) RTM Rehoboth Town Meetings (book:page) RVR Rehoboth Vital Records (book:page) PMB Rehoboth Proprietors' Meetings (page) STR Salem Town Records (printed) ECCR Essex County Court Records (book:page) Used in Genealogy Tabulation: b. born bapt. baptized d. died m. married ml married first m2 married second m3 married third unm. unmarried R Rehoboth Vital Records (book:page) M Mansfield Vital Records (book:page) F Foxborough Vital Records (book:page) ca circa (about)

335 BIBLIOGRAPHY

Locations of some early sources are listed. Town histories and a few books of general interest are included for those who would like to study events in more detail. A valuable guide to locating original records in each of the fourteen counties in Massachusetts is Massachusetts Records, by Richard LeBaron Bowen, Rehoboth, Mass., 1957, printed by the Rumford Press, Concord, N.H. (61 pages).

REHOBOTH RECORDS Rehoboth Town Meetings books and the Rehoboth Vital Records books are source records from which much of this book on Robert Fuller and his descendants has been compiled. These original manuscript record books are in the Town Clerk's office and have been microfilmed. Land records of early Rehoboth are in five manuscript volumes, now at Bristol County Registry of Deeds, Taunton. Rehoboth deeds recorded prior to Sept. 1686 are at Plymouth County Registry of Deeds, and subsequent to this date are at Taunton. Rehoboth Proprietors' Meetings book (1712 - 1841) also has Rehoboth land records copied from Rehoboth Town Meetings books I and II. This original book, in manuscript, is at the Registry of Deeds, Taunton. Rehoboth North Purchase Land Records (1672 - 1839) are in five manuscript volumes now at the Attleborough City Clerk's office. These five books were transcribed in 1904 into two manuscript volumes which are at the Registry of Deeds, Taunton. Rehoboth Probate records prior to 1687 are at the Registry of Pmbate in Plymouth, and subsequent to 1687 are at Bristol County Registry of Probate, Taunton. Vital Records of Rehoboth (1642 - 1896), by James N. Arnold, published in 1897 by Narraganset Historical Publishing Co., is a convenient source for finding Rehoboth marriages, intentions, births and deaths. For assured accuracy, names and dates should be compared with the original record books.

REHOBOTH HISTORIES History of Rehoboth, by Leonard Bliss, Jr. (294 pages), published in 1836. Numerous quotations in chronoligical order, taken from original town records. 336 BIBLIOGRAPHY 337

Forty-six pages on King Philip's war. Covers briefly the Revolutionary war and Shays' Rebellion. Church history and early histories of Seekonk and Pawtucket are outlined. A few biographical sketches are included. A History of Rehoboth, Massachusetts, by Rev. George H. Tilton ( 417 pages), published in 1918. Covers Rehoboth history from 1643 to 1918, and includes original town records quoted in Bliss' history. A general history with chapters on education, antiquarian society, churches, agriculture, manufacturers, natural resources, etc. A chapter on old Rehoboth cemeteries, and 88 pages of genealogical information are included. Well illustrated and indexed. Early Rehoboth, by Richard LeBaron Bowen, 4 volumes, privately printed by The Rumford Press, Concord, N.H. Vol. I (164 pages), 1945. Vol. II (177 pages), 1946. Vol. III (186 pages), 1948. Vol. IV (189 pages), 1950. These four volumes are documented historical studies of families and events in the early years of Rehoboth. Also included are the adjoining towns of Swansea, Bristol, and Freetown. They are source books for genealogists and students of Rehoboth history and the histories of Bristol County, Plymouth Colony, Rhode Islan"d Colony, and southern New England in general. Several thousand names of early inhabitants are indexed. These volumes are the result of many years of expert research by Mr. Bowen, and include much information not previously published. SALEM RECORDS The vital records of Salem to 1850 are printed in six volumes by the Essex Institute, Salem, Mass. The earliest existing town records of Salem have been printed in three volumes by the Essex Institute, 1634 - 1659, 1659 - 1680, and 1680 - 1691. Portions of the early town records have been lost, viz: June 19 - July 12, 1637; Mar 25, 1641 - July 18, 1643; Feb. 3, 1648 - Mar. 8, 1655. Probate Court Records of Essex County from 1635 to l 681 were published in 1916 by Essex Institute in three volumes. Quarterly Court Records of Essex County from 1636 - 1680 were published in 1911 by Essex Institute in eight volumes. Salem deeds are at Essex County Registry of Deeds, Salem. SALEM HISTORIES Annals ofSalem, by J.B. Felt, in two volumes, 1845. The History of Salem, Massachusetts, by Sidney Perley, 1924, in three volumes, covering 1626 through l 716. An extensive history based on original sources, "including everything in records and original memoranda which should be preserved." Has many genealogies of Salem families. Illustrated and well indexed. Salem in the 17th Century, by James D. Phillips, 1933, Houghton, Miflin Co., Boston. 338 BIBLIOGRAPHY

OTHER BOOKS OF INTEREST Leach, Douglas Edward, Ph.D., Flintlock and Tomahawk. The Macmillan Company, 1958. Although there are numerous books written on King Philip's war, a most comprehensive and unbiased story of this critical period of New England history has been told in this book by Professor Leach. Extensive bibliography and source references. Bodge, George Madison, Soldiers in King Philip's War, 3rd edition, 1906. A concise history of Indian wars from 1620 to 1677, with official lists of soldiers serving in King Philip's war (502 pages, including comprehensive index). Starkey, Marion L., A Little Rebellion, Alfred A. Knopp Co., 1955. Shays' Rebellion has been written in varying completeness by several authors, but this book is a most interesting and comprehensive narrative of the unfortunate conditions which built up after the Revolutionary war. Sloan, Eric, A Museum of Early American Tools, Funk and Wagnalls, New York, 1964. Illustrates and describes the use of these tools in building the early houses from hand hewn logs, etc. Willison, George F., Saints and Strangers, Reynal and Hitchcock, New York, I 945. A very readable story of the Pilgrims who, at Plymouth, were contemporary with Rehoboth settlers. As Plymouth was the center of government for the entire Plymouth Colony, the influence on events and the people of Rehoboth would have been appreciable. Mr. Willison's narrative of Plymouth history complements the study of Rehoboth history.

FULLER GENEALOGIES There have been numerous Fuller genealogies published in book or manuscript form, but very few of these go back to Robert Fuller of Salem and Rehoboth as the immigrant ancestor. The earliest published on Robert appears to be Newton Fuller's Fuller Memorial, published in 1898 as a paperback booklet of 38 pages plus an index of 12 pages. It deals principally with the Robertl and Benjamin2 line, of which Newton Fuller was a direct descendant. All but one of Benjamin's seven children settled in Connecticut, and consequently much of this genealogy is centered in that state. However, Newton Fuller did extensive research on the descendants of the other sons of Robert Fuller, viz: Jonathan, Samuel, and John. His manuscript notebooks on all of his research are in the N.E.H.G.S. library. Although he did not document his sources, the information in these notebooks would be of considerable assistance to any descendant of Robert in searching for early ancestors. William H. Fuller of Palmer, Mass., was contemporary with Newton Fuller. They apparently collaborated in their extensive researches on the various early Fuller families. Wm. H. Fuller also had voluminous notes on the descendants of Robert Fuller of Salem and Rehoboth. These notes are now in the N.E.H.G.S. library. Much of this material on Robert and his descendants seems to be prepared for BIBLIOGRAPHY 339 publishing and perhaps was to follow the four Fuller genealogies published from 1908 to 1919. The titles of these four genealogies are: Vol. I. Some Descendants of Edward Fuller of the Mayflower ( 1908). Vol. II. Some Descendants of Dr. Samuel Fuller of the Mayflower (I 910). Vol. III. Some Descendants of Capt. Matthew Fuller (1914). Includes John Fuller of Newton, John Fuller of Lynn, John Fuller of Ipswich, and Robert Fuller of Dorchester and Dedham, with supplements to Vol. I and II. Vol. IV. Some Descendants of Thomas Fuller of Woburn (1919). With supplements to previous volumes I, II, and IIJ. A Record of Some of the Descendants of Robert Full{, ofSalem and Rehoboth, Including all of the Descendants of Seymour Fuller of the Sixth Generation, by James Fuller Spoerri, 1931. It is similar to Fuller Memorial in regard to Robert. The line of descent is: Robert, Jonathan, David, Elijah, Solomon, Seymour, and three younger generations. Robert Fuller of Salem and Rehoboth, by Jean Muir Dorsey, I 936. Similar to Fuller Memorial in regard to Robert. The line of descent is: Robert, Jonathan, David, Elijah, John, John, Levi, and two younger generations. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

With no previous experience in genealogical or historical research, I started the project to prove my ancestry back to the emigrant ancestor Robert Fuller. In the early stages of this effort I was fortunate in becoming acquainted with Miss Marion Reed (now deceased), a skillful genealogist, and with Mr. Richard LeBaron Bowen who had spent many years on Rehoboth historical research. Their friendly advice and guidance was especially welcome. Much of my research was done in Rehoboth where Mrs. Richard Bliss, former town clerk, and later Mr. Harold Murray who succeeded her, were patiently cooperative with my study of the old town record books. The friendly help of Mr. Henry Crapo, Register of Deeds at Taunton, and his assistant, Mr. Frank Hackett, contributed to my extensive search of Bristol County deed records. Considerable research for supplemental information was done at the New England Historic Genealogical Society where the librarians, with their intimate knowledge of the vast collection of books and other materials, facilitated my use of the library. In all cases where I was searching for data of a specific nature, I found those in charge of public records most helpful and cooperative with my objective. A special acknowledgment with gratitude is due my daughter, Mrs. Jane Claire Beck, who typed much of the original manuscript, patiently edited the text, and finally outlined specifications for typography and general style of the book. Without her help and suggestions, l am sure this book would have been much less readable. Of prime importance was the encouragement of my patient wife, Dorothea Cary Fuller, which led me to extend the original intent of a simple genealogy to include the historical delineation of each of the early generations. The resulting text has accordingly been of greater interest to us both, and we hope will prove so to our readers. Finally, my appreciation to those who helped with the preparation of some of the illustrations. To John (Jack) Harris for his advice and help on reproduction of various old photographs and other illustrations. To Wendell P. Dodge for the sketches of the Timothy Fuller house, the two-wheeled dump cart, and gravestones of Hannah Fuller and Dorothy Fuller. To Thomas P. Croke for the photographs of the Good Shepherd window, the MF gravestone, and the Timothy and Olive Fuller gravestone. 340 INDEX OF FULLERS

Aaron, 92 96 104 107 123 137 170 Daniel 65 90 172 304 308 178 307 310 David, 90 304 308 Abell, 3 l l David Chisholm, 321 Abiah, 308 311 Delia A., 316 Abial (Abie!), 56 58 62 90 306 307 Dorothy, 92 96 98 99 103-107 Abigail, 20 37 61 62 79 304 306 I 20-123 178 307-309 Alan Clarke, 332 Douglas Kent, 311 Alice M., 3 I 7 Ebenezer, 92 96 98-101 103 122-124 Alonzo Fitzerland, 224-226 230 251 175 245 307-309 253315316 Edgar Winfield, 260 264 272 277 279 Amie, 311 281 283-285 293 294 317 327 Amos, 137 184 185 223-225 229 251 Edgar Winnifred, 318 253 306 307 310 314-316 Elizabeth, 20 38 47 75 137 144 145 Amos G., 252 253 316 153 156 158 161 172 184 191-194 Amy Lund, 322 210 215 304 305 309 311 322 Arthur W., 316 Ellen, 228 231 233 251 252 254 Asa,311 Elsbeth Hoyte, 330 Barbara Louise, 333 Emeline Frances, 224 315 317 Benjamin, 20 39-414647 50 515861 Ezekiel, 51 306 63-65 717279879093121175 Ezra, 223 239 240 243 246 250 314 304 306 Florence, 326 Bennet Bristol, 322 Frank I., 3 I 7 Bethia, I 37310 Frank W., 316 Betty, 136 138 George Edwin, 224 225 229 230 251 Candace Emily, 224 225 229 315 318 253 273 277 315 318 324 Carlton Perry, 330 George W., 317 Caroline Eliza, 224 315 316 Gertrude Inez, 328 Catherine Marie, 325 Gertrude Rexford, 322 Clarence Chisholm, 320 Hannah, 135-137 144 152 157 161 Clarence Rexford, 322 166-169 173 175 179 184 185 Corodon Spaulding, 321 189-191 193 194 206-210 212 218 Craig Stephen, 325 219 222-224 233-237 239-241 243 Cyrus, 314 246 250 308 309 311313314 341 342 INDEX OF FULLERS

Harold Perry, 260 272 280 283 284 Lunette Augusta, 260 265 272 280 290 291 317 332 284 317 318 Herbert Clifton, 196 260 264 277-279 Lunette Shepard, 327 281 283 285 290 293 294 317 320 Margaret, 39 41 44-48 61 65-71 Hiram Dexter, Chapter VIII. 224 225 Marianne Mansfield, 332 230 231 240 247 249 251253315 Marion Berenice, 329 317 318 320 325 327 328 332 Marjory Helen, 323 Horace Newton, 224 229 315 318 Mary, 38 47 82 85 87 88 92 96 104 Horace Shepard, 332 107 121 123 137 138 305-307 310 Huldah, 136 137 184 190 191 224 Mary A., 316 233 234 236 237 239 241 243 246 Mary E., 252 316 309 312-314 Mary Ide, 224 306 315 316 Israel Come!, 224 225 230 232 Mary L., 253 251-253 264 277 315 317 Mathew, Capt., 78 Jacob, 308 Mehitable, 137 156 184 191 310 313 James, 245 Merrill Winfield, 328 James David, 325 Michael Dexter, 325 Jane Claire, 321 Molly, 191 195 196 203-206 209 Janet Alma, 323 212-214 216 217 220-222 233 Janet Margaret, 325 Moses, 92 96 104 107 123 137 138 Janice Lawson, 324 178307310 Jason Walker, 223-226 229-231 233 Nancy Helen, 322 254 315 Nathan, 308 Jeffrey Lawson, 325 Nathaniel, 172 305 208 }cf, Jemima, 308 Noah, 92 96 104 107 123 124 231 Jesse, 308 254 307 308311 314 Joanne,324 Otis, 314 John, 20 37 38 55 56 58 61 62 81 90 Olive, 223-228 230 244 247 249 254 304-306 310 314 John Chisholm, 323 Patricia Rexford, 322 John Hach, 333 Phebe,254 Jonathan, 20 23 32 36 45-47 53 55-58 Polly, 190 191 206 224 226 233 234 65 71728790118 175 304 236 237 239 241 243 244 246 313 Jonathan Ellis, 332 314 Joshua, 307 Rachel, 310 311 Joyce Greenough, 331 Raymond Rexford, 323 Judith, 308 311 Rebek,ah, 310 Kent Mason, 331 Rhoda, 308 Keziah, 310 Rinda, 311 Levi, 243 309 3 I 4 Robert, Chapter II. 10 I 6 77 78 80 81 Lodema, 252 253 316 84 85 87 88 91 93 111 118 121 Lois, 308 175 243 304 Louisa, 253 Roger William, 324 Lucy F., 245 316 Roscoe Hodges, 332 INDEX OF FULLERS 343

Ruth, 92 96 104-106 123 307-309 Susanna, 308 Samuel, Chapters III & IV 19 20 23 Thomas, 41 42 304 37-39 53 57 58 61-63 75 76 Thomas Edward, 325 121-124 147 164 165 171 172 174 Thomas Edwin, 324 175 190 243 304 306-308 Timothy, Chapters V, VI, VII. 76 86 Samuel Badger, 332 92 96 104-106 109 293 294 307 Samuel S., 317 309 310 312 313 315 333 Sarah, 20 23 38 77 81 87 118 139 184 Timothy Chisholm, 322 19!305310312 Waitstill,308 Sarah Jean, 323 Walter Lewis, 328 Sarah Luce, 325 William Carlton, '260-283 284 294 290 Susan Allyn, 322 291317328 Susan C., 281 283 285 287 William E., 281 283 Susan M. K., 245 William Perry, 323 324 Susan Perry, 318 320 327 328 332 William Thomas, 322 INTERMARRIED WITH FULLERS Adams, James, 314 Bliss, 176-178 Polly, 226 228 314 Bethia, 173 178 309 *William, 224 226 228 247 314 *Daniel, 309 Alger, David William, 324 Dorotha, 309 . Ellen (Redington), 324 *Hannah, 125 134 135 172-174 Erica Dorothy, 324 178183184210309 Isaac, 324 Jacob, 309 Lisa Anne, 324 Jonathan, 309 310 *Robert Earl, 324 Joseph, 309 Angevine, *Hallie Virginia, 331 *Mary, 309 310 Hallie Virginia (Corbett), 331 Miriam, 309 Jay B., 331 Noah, 309 Badger, *Anne, 332 *Rachel, 137 173 178 310 Marion (Mansfield) 332 Ruth, 309 Paul Combs, 332 Sibbel, 309 Baker, James, 255 257 Bluemer, Cynthia Anne, 326 Roby, 255 256 *Edwin Frederick, 326 Baldwin, Amy Carlton, 331 John Henry, 326 Frances (Benedict), 331 Lena (Yenker), 326 Jennifer Mason, 331 Lorinda Jane, 326 Nancy Benedict, 331 Bowen, 73-76 *Robert, 331 Ann, 304 Susan Kent, 331 Richard, 304 Beck Harry Nichols, 321 *Sarah, 20 23 30 73 74 304 Janet Louise, 321 Bristol, Bennet Beri, 321 Nellie (Cummings), 321 *Helen Rexford, 321 *Richard Warren, 321 Gertrude (Rexford), 321 344 INDEX OF FULLERS

Brown, *Waitstill, 123 308 Keziah, 312 Bullock, *Benjamin, 313 *Noah, 311 Candace, 223 313 Conkey, Andrew Deland, 326 Caroline E., 228 230 251 253 Clarence E., 326 Daniel, 311 David Lawrence, 326 Elizabeth, 157 158 161 175 Edwin Frederick, 326 Frederick L., 316 Helen (Ovans), 326 *Gilbert Dexter, 229 231 251 253 Corne!, Israel, 223 316 Cornell, 256-257 Hezekiah, 313 Cushman, Thomas, 306 Huldah, 313 Dudley, Franklin, 319 Jemima, 313 Julia (Brancke ), 319 Leah,311 Julia Mary, 319 *Lennox, 311 Dufresne,* Janet Alma, 323 Lydia, 313 Lida A. (MacRae), 323 Mehitable, 158 161 193 211 216 Raymond J., 323 313 Durfee, Elizabeth, 265 274 293 294 Nancy, 313 Sumner, 265 Phebe (Chase), 316 Edwards, *Pierpont M., 287-289 317 Roxey,313 Susan C., 289-292 295 Sarah, 313 Emmons, Florenc~Harding, 319 Timothy, 223 225 231 243 313 Harry T., 319 316 Feingold, David A., 327 Carpenter, 300-301 Justin David, 327 Abigail, 312 Molly (Steiner), 327 Ebenezer, 313 Murray, 327 Elizabeth, 313 Rachael Florence, 327 Lydia Ann, 259 Felton, Elizabeth, 304 Samuel 313 John,304 Sarah, 157 158 161 208 209 211 Field, Charles, 316 214 215 313 *Nancy, 316 Susanna, 259 Fiorini, Allyn Elizabeth, 323 Thomas, 259 Diane Allyn, 322 *William, 312 *Francis Constant, 322 Carraway, Vivian, 330 Helen Bristol, 323 Cary, *Dorothea, 321 Joan Francis, 323 Ellen Jane (Hodges), 321 John,322 Louis Alexander, 321 Katherine Ann, 322 Chisholm, Lemuel Bigney, 320 Margaret Mary, 323 Mary (Gemmill) 320 Mary (Rosasco), 322 *Phoebe Purdy, 284 320 Flynn, Alison Rogers, 320 Claflin, Elizabeth, 193 208 210 212 David Stafford, 320 217218 Deborah White, 320 Hannah, 311 Donald White, 320 INDEX OF FULLERS 345

Mildred (Dorrety), 320 Eliza P., 318 Susan Perry, 320 Emeline (Fuller), 230 251 253 Goff, Israel, 314 Flora F ranees, 3 I 8 *Jacob, 224 239 240 246 314 Florence Fuller, 318 Sarah, 224 240 246 314 Ichabod, 318 Greene, John W., 333 Laura J., 318 Patricia Ann, 333 Tirza, 318 Grise, Delcia (Grenier), 325 Keith, Sarah Ann, 3 I 4 Felix E., 325 Knap, Abel, 312 *Theresa Claudette, 325 Asa, 312 Hach, John Peter, 333 David, 312 *Margaret Leontine, 333 Ebenezer, 312 Margaret (Possett), 333 Hannah, 312 Hall, Jesse (Stacy), 319 Huldah, 157 158 161 194 210 211 Hallett, Charles Hiram, 290 319 215 216 312 *Charles Leaman, 284 287 295 318 Jerusha, 312 Charlotte (Guild), 318 Judith, 312 David Harding, 320 Mason, 312 Diana Louise, 320 Nathan, 312 Karen, 320 *Peter, 312 Leaman Fuller, 290 319 Seth, 312 Lunette (Fuller), 283 290 291 Lake,*Hannah,308 Mark Dudley, 319 Gersham, 308 Marta, 319 Prudence (Chany) 308 Richard Harding, 319 Lawson, *Dorothy Winifred, 323 Harding, Florence Frances, 319 George E., 323 Harvey, Daniel E., 323 Mary Isabel (Jordan), 323 Jane (Boyd), 323 Littlefield, Elizabeth (Eagles), 317 Hayden, *Alice (Harvey), 323 *Mary Louise, 310 Hodges, *Bessie Bernard, 332 Samuel S., 317 Emma Sophia (Cobb), 332 Luce, George B., 325 William Bernard, 332 *Marion Lucretia, 325 Horton, 254-256 Sarah (Murphy), 325 *Olive, 223 315 Lund, *Joan Marie, 322 Roby, 255 315 Lawrence H., 322 Silas, 254-256 315 Marie (Daley), 322 *Susanna, 308 Mason, Bertha (Kent), 330 Ide, 86 *Dorothy Choate, 330 Martha, 306 Frank Stillman, 330 *Ma~,76788485306 Jerusha,312 Nicholas, 306 McAlpine, Charles A., 270 329 Jones, John D. E., 319 Eliza (King) 329 Katherine, 319 *Mary Gem, 283 290 291 329 Keene, *Caleb T., 251 253 318 Medbery, Allyn, 317 346 INDEX OF FULLERS

Ira, 317 Rounds, James, 315 *Ira Allyn, 231 251 253 317 *Phebe Ann, 315 Nancy (Peck), 317 Phebe (Barnet), 315 Medbury, 220-221 Sabin, Daniel, 305 Ebenezer, 313 David, 305 Mary Ide, 223 228 230 251 253 Elizabeth, 305 313 *Nehemiah, 37 38 75 305 *Molly (Mary), 86 189 190 313 William, 305 Miller, *Olive, 314 Scarcel!o, *Donna Lee, 325 Moore, Christian Havelock, 333 Edith Mae (Emerson), 325 Christopher Lee, 333 Nicholas S., 325 Dana Wesley, 333 Sharp, Gladys (Graham), 324 Ernest Havelock, 333 *Helen Anderson, 324 Harold Elliott, 333 Henry A., 324 Helen, 333 Shepard, *Hattie Maria, 284 327 *Richard Havelock, 333 Lewis Richards, 327 Peck, *Mary (Bliss), 310 Martha Maria (Cobb), 327 Perry,299 Smith, Elizabeth, 307 Charles, 262 282-285 294 Henry, 307 Daniel Bliss, 259 260 262 296 317 *Judith, 307 Lydia Ann (Carpenter), 317 Souza, Alan Fuller, 326 Otis, 259 261-263 296 David James, 326 *Susan Carpenter, 259 317 Frank, 326 Powers, Charles Elliott, 333 *Frank Louis, 326 *Kalah, 333 Louise (Viera), 326 Rosalie (Jackson), 333 Mark Dexter, 326 Read, *Bethia, 311 Stengel, Sally High, 330 Ezekiel, 311 Swope, Darcy Mason, 331 *Martha, 311 Elizabeth (Gill), 330 Mary, 311 Joseph R., 330 Redway, James, 306 Paul Fuller, 331 John, 87 88 94 306 Perry Gill, 331 Martha, 306 *Thomas Carlyle, 330 Mary, 91 94 Taylor, Elizabeth, 227 315 Preserved, 306 *Ellen, 227 229 315 Riedel, Betty (Scheefeld), 324 George, 227 315 Paul A., 324 Thurber, 180-183 *Sigrid Betty, 324 *Elizabeth, 136 182 183 184 190 Robertson, Isabel (Brooks), 329 309 John, 329 Jonathan, 309 Rebecca, 329 Mehitabell, 309 Robinson, John, 308 Tidd, *Elizabeth, 42. Judith, 308 Titus, * Abigail, 305 *Rachel, 308 John,305 INDEX OF FULLERS 347

Trevor, *Barbara Ellis, 332 Lowell Roger, 329 Joseph L. Ellis, 332 Norman Roger, 329 Mary Tutt (Guild), 332 Peter Dow, 329 Vance, Gale Lakin, 328 Robert Fuller, 329 Laura Lunette, 328 Wheelock, *Eleazer, 38 305 Olive (Howard), 328 Elizabeth, 305 Rosalyn Jean, 328 Mary, 305 William Bradford, 328 Ralph, 305 William H., 328 Willard, *Frances Elizabeth, 321 Vincent, Alice Seymour, 329 Thomas A., 321 Craig Fuller, 330 Velma (Gladney), 321 Dean Harrison, 330 Wilmarth, 117-119 Leslie Ann, 330 *Dorothy, 76 92 119 190 307 Martha Jane, 330 *Elizabeth, 32 117 1 I 8 304 Norman Edmund, 329 John, 307 Norman Fuller, 330 Ruth, 307 *Norman H. S., 329 Thomas, 304 Peter Norman, 330 Woods, Clara (Sanford), 327 Richard William, 330 Edgar Fuller, 328 William Fuller, 329 Frank E., 327 Waller, *Margaret, 39 47 304 Jean Lunette, 328 Wentworth, Carol Elizabeth, 329 *Leslie Eugene, 327 Elizabeth (Waide), 329 Phyllis Adele, 327 Lowell Franklin, 329

* Married a Fuller.