Bridgewater Massachusetts

Bridgewater, Massachusetts, is a town situated in Plymouth County, embodying a blend of historical richness and geographical diversity. Formed in 1656 and originally part of an area known as Duxburrow New Plantation, Bridgewater derived its name from Bridgwater in Somerset, England, reflecting the pattern of naming new settlements after English towns by the early settlers. The town’s geographic features are marked by a mix of rolling landscapes, rivers, and brooks, contributing to its scenic beauty and supporting a historically agricultural way of life. Throughout its history, Bridgewater has transitioned from a primarily agrarian economy to embrace education and light manufacturing, hosting Bridgewater State University, which significantly influences the local culture and economy. The town’s formation and evolution are deeply intertwined with the broader historical narratives of Plymouth County and Massachusetts, reflecting the complexities of colonial expansion, industrialization, and modern development.

Michael Bacon of Dedham Massachusetts and his descendants

This is a genealogy of Michael Bacon of Dedham and his descendants. Michael arrived in Dedham, Massachusetts in 1640 after sailing aboard an unnamed ship, likely from County of Suffolk, England, but possibly from Ireland. Baldwin treats the descendants of each of the three sons of Michael—Michael Jr., Daniel, and John—in a separate chapter, the first chapter being devoted to Michael Sr. and his English roots. The early descendants settled in Bedford, Billerica, Bridgewater, Cambridge, Dedham, Newton, Salem, Watertown, and Woburn Massachusetts.

Ancestry of Elmer C. Packard of Brockton Massachusetts

The Packard family has held a significant presence in New England for nearly 275 years, tracing its origins to Samuel Packard, an early settler in Bridgewater, Massachusetts. The lineage includes prominent figures, such as Elmer C. Packard, who succeeded his father, Ellis Packard, in a successful grain and coal business in Brockton. The family has deep roots in various trades and public service, with Elmer continuing the legacy through active community involvement and progressive business practices.

Washburn Genealogy of Bridgewater Massachusetts

Old Families of Southeastern Massachusetts

The Washburn family, among the earliest settlers of Bridgewater, Massachusetts, traces its roots to John Washburn, who arrived in New England by 1632. His lineage includes notable descendants such as Capt. Abraham Washburne, a Revolutionary War soldier, and his son Seth, who became a successful entrepreneur in cotton gins. The family continued to thrive, with later generations like George and Lucy Eaton, who contributed to the community’s legacy. The Washburns remain a significant part of Bridgewater’s history, exemplifying the town’s early growth and development.

Ancestry of Joshua Bates of Bridgewater Massachusetts

The Bates lineage in Massachusetts began with Clement Bates, a tailor from Hertfordshire, who arrived in 1635 and settled in Hingham. His descendants included significant figures such as Colonel Seth Bates, who served in the Revolutionary War, and his son Joshua Bates, who established a successful furnace in Canada before returning to farm in Bridgewater. Joshua Bates married Bethia Ames, fathering four children, and his family continued to thrive in Bridgewater, with generations contributing to local history and community life.

Descendants of John McCullough of New Bedford MA

John McCullough, born in New Bedford in 1858 to Irish immigrants, played a significant role in the city’s growth. His grandfather, Patrick McCullough, and father, also John, laid the family’s roots in New Bedford after emigrating from County Tyrone, Ireland. John established a successful junk business and became a key figure in the whaling industry. Active in local politics, he served as alderman and helped form St. Lawrence parish. His legacy continued through his son, who expanded the family business, embodying the McCullough commitment to community and enterprise.

Descendants of Rev. James Keith in Bridgewater, Massachusetts

The Keith family is one of the oldest of southeastern Massachusetts. Its founder in America was Rev. James Keith, born in 1644, who came to America, landing in Boston in 1662. He became minister of the Bridgewater Church, where he administered to the spiritual needs of the people for half a century. He died July 23, 1719. He was twice married. His first wife was Susannah Edson, daughter of Deacon Samuel Edson.

Huet Genealogy of Brockton, Massachusetts

Reference is here made to the branch of this family to which belonged the late Joseph Hewett, who for a period of thirty years was an honored resident of Brockton, and his posterity, numbered among whom have been men prominently identified with the business interests of the city for many years. Thomas Huet, born in 1609, was an early inhabitant of Hingham and a landholder. Probably Huet’s Cove in that vicinity took its name from him. He married (first) Elizabeth, daughter of William Chapman, who died in 1639, leaving most of his property to his daughter just named. She died May 22, 1649,” in Hingham. He married (second) Mrs. Mary Cutler, widow of John Cutler. Mr. Huet was a tailor and resided in West Hingham. He was made a freeman May 26, 1647. He died May 24, 1670, in Hingham, aged about sixty-one. His wife outlived him and removed to Charlestown.

Ancestry of Walter Lyman French

Walter Lyman French, born on May 4, 1843, in Brockton, was a prominent entrepreneur known for his contributions to various industries, particularly in the shoe and grocery trades. Descended from early New England settlers, he engaged in military service during the Civil War and later established himself in business after the war. French was active in local politics and community organizations, reflecting a dedication to service and leadership. He married Lucy Ames, and they had a daughter, Ellen Lucinda. French has been recognized for his significant impact on the Brockton community.

Records of Duxbury Massachusetts 1642-1770

Copy of the old records of the town of Duxbury, Mass

Copied by George Ethridge from various manuscript volumes and loose papers, and arranged as nearly as possible by dates. Records of births, marriages, and deaths not included. The bounds of Duxbury originally included what is now within the limits of Duxbury, Marshfield, Pembroke, Hanson, the Bridgewaters and Brockton.

Soule Family of New Bedford Massachusetts

The Soule family of New Bedford, Massachusetts, traces its lineage to George Soule, a Mayflower Pilgrim. Currently led by Hon. Rufus Albertson Soule, this family’s history is marked by significant contributions to local governance and business, particularly in shipbuilding and shoe manufacturing. Their legacy includes participation in the Civil War, with four brothers serving. Rufus Soule’s prominent roles in the community and service as a state senator reflect the family’s longstanding commitment to civic duty and public service, enriching New Bedford’s heritage.

The Massachusetts Tax Valuation List of 1771

Massachusetts and Maine Direct Tax, 1798

The Massachusetts Tax Valuation List of 1771 contains the names and descriptions of taxable property of nearly 38,000 individuals who resided in 152 Massachusetts towns in 1771

Ancestry of George Otis Jenkins of Whitman, Massachusetts

George Otis Jenkins, born on November 22, 1846, in Dorchester, Massachusetts, was a prominent manufacturer and influential figure in Whitman. Descended from Edward Jenkins, an early Scituate settler, George overcame early adversity following his father’s death. He co-founded a successful business producing steel shanks and burial caskets. Active in multiple corporate boards and community initiatives, he held significant positions, including president of the Whitman Savings Bank. Married to Abby F. Bates, Jenkins exemplified enterprise and public service throughout his life.

Kingman Genealogy of Middleboro Massachusetts

The Kingman family of Middleboro, Massachusetts, descends from an early branch of the Weymouth Kingman lineage, tracing its roots back to Wales. Prominent figures include Maj. Bela Kingman and his son Calvin D. Kingman, who significantly impacted local industry by establishing a shoe manufacturing business that employed hundreds. The family’s legacy extends to civic and educational contributions, with Calvin serving as the first president of the Middleboro National Bank and actively participating in the Congregational Church. The Kingman lineage exemplifies dedication to both community and industry in Middleboro.

Leach Genealogy of Bridgewater, Massachusetts

The Leach family has been integral to Bridgewater, Massachusetts, since its early settlement, with roots tracing back to Lawrence Leach, an immigrant from England in 1629. His descendants, including Giles Leach, a town founder, and James Cushing Leach, a prominent businessman and politician, have significantly influenced the community. The Leach lineage is marked by contributions to public service, education, and local governance, fostering a rich heritage in the region. The genealogy reflects a lineage of resilience and commitment to civic duty, underscoring the family’s enduring legacy.

Ancestors of Samuel Pearly Gates of Bridgewater Massachusetts

Samuel Pearly Gates, born on June 8, 1837, in Ashby, Massachusetts, has played a pivotal role in Bridgewater’s business and civic development, notably as treasurer and controlling interest of the Eagle Cotton Gin Company. A descendant of Stephen Gates, who arrived in New England in 1638, Samuel’s family has deep roots in the area. He served in the Civil War before establishing a successful career in business and banking. A respected community member, he is connected to various local institutions and remains active in his church and civic duties.

Ancestry of the Jennings Family from Fall River, Massachusetts

The Jennings family has deep roots in Massachusetts, with Richard Jennings arriving in the 1630s and establishing a legacy in Sandwich and later Fall River. William H. Jennings, a seventh-generation descendant, played a significant role in Fall River’s cotton manufacturing boom in the 19th century. He successfully organized the Merchants Manufacturing Company and held leadership positions in various enterprises. Known for his integrity and business acumen, Jennings contributed to the city’s growth until his death in 1885, leaving behind a legacy of community involvement and success.

Ancestors of Everett Clinton Hall of Brockton, MA

Everett Clinton Hall, a prominent wholesale grocer from Brockton, MA, is deeply rooted in a lineage that traces back to the earliest families of Massachusetts, including notable Pilgrims John Alden and Priscilla Mullins. The Hall family history highlights significant ancestors like George Hall, one of Taunton’s founders, and his descendants who contributed to local governance and church establishments. Everett ascended to his business success through hard work, evolving from his father’s grocery store into a flourishing wholesale operation with an extensive reach in southeastern Massachusetts.

Ancestors of the Rufus W. Bassett Family of Fall River, Massachusetts

The Bassett family of Fall River, Massachusetts, descends from William Bassett, who emigrated from England in 1620. Prominent members include Hon. Rufus W. Bassett, a significant figure in local politics and business, serving on various councils and boards. The family’s lineage includes several generations, with connections across Massachusetts towns such as Duxbury, Bridgewater, and Rochester. Notably, Rufus W. Bassett’s contributions to the city’s governance and his family’s rich history reflect the enduring legacy of the Bassett lineage within the region.

Ancestors of Daniel Waldo Field of Brockton MA

The Field family, with roots tracing back to Hubertus de la Feld who accompanied William the Conqueror in 1066, has a distinguished history in England and America. The family flourished in Massachusetts, notably in Brockton, where members played vital roles in local governance and military efforts. Key figures include Daniel Waldo Field, a prominent shoe manufacturer and philanthropist, and Frederic Forrest Field, president of Burt Packard Company. The Fields have contributed significantly to the community, both economically and socially, establishing a legacy of enterprise and benevolence.

Ancestry of the Embert Howard Family of Brockton Massachusetts

Embert Howard, a prominent businessman from Brockton, Massachusetts, represents a lineage rooted in New England’s early settlements. His family traces back to John Haward, an early Duxbury settler who became influential in Bridgewater. Embert’s ancestry includes notable figures, such as his father, Deacon Cary Howard, and maternal connections to the Perkins family, which also boasted Mayflower descendants. Embert’s successful clothing business and community engagement reflect his family’s enduring legacy in Brockton, reinforcing their historic identity in the region.