Eastham Massachusetts

Descendants of Nicholas Snow of Eastham, MA

snow

Nicholas Snow, an English settler, arrived in Plymouth in 1623 and later became a vital figure in Eastham, where he served as town clerk and held various civic roles. He married Constance, a Mayflower descendant, and fathered ten children. His lineage continued through his son Stephen and grandson Miijah, leading to notable descendants like Edmund Snow, a town founder in Orleans, and George G. Snow, a successful shoe manufacturer in Brockton. This legacy showcases the Snow family’s influence in early American history.

Knowles Family of New Bedford, MA

thomas knowles

The Knowles family, established in New Bedford for nearly a century, descends from the ancient lineage in Eastham, Massachusetts. Key figures include Thomas and James H. Knowles, whose firm was pivotal in the whaling industry. The family name was upheld by later generations engaged in diverse business and civic roles, greatly impacting local commerce and community welfare. Noteworthy individuals include Capt. John P. Knowles, a prominent whaling captain, and Joseph Knowles, influential in cotton manufacturing. The family’s legacy intertwines with New Bedford’s rich maritime history.

Descendants of Chauncey Sears of Fall River, MA

The Sears family, of Fall River, MA, traces its origins back to Richard Sares, who arrived in America circa 1632. Initially settled in Marblehead, he later moved to Yarmouth, where he died in 1676. Over generations, the family produced prominent figures, including Chauncey Howe Sears, a successful mason contractor and builder. Chauncey started his career at eighteen and built a substantial business, contributing to many local mills and public buildings. A respected community member, he also held various affiliations in fraternal organizations and married Georgianna Newell in 1883, having two children.

Biography of Joseph Reed Burgess

Joseph Reed Burgess, born on May 21, 1893, in Rockland, is a prominent educator in Hampden County and Western Massachusetts. After graduating from Harvard and the Bridgewater Normal School, he served in various educational roles, including principal positions in Eastham, Sanford, and Gloucester, before becoming the superintendent of schools in Monson. A respected leader in the teaching community, he is also active in local fraternal organizations. Burgess married Doris R. Price in 1921, and they have one son, Price Bradford.

Nauset Tribe

The Nauset Indians, an Algonquian tribe in Massachusetts, were primarily located on Cape Cod, under the authority of the Wampanoag. Early encounters with Europeans included enslavement and conflict, yet the Nauset maintained a generally amicable relationship with the Plymouth colonists, assisting during King Philip’s War. By 1621, their population was estimated at 500, with subsequent declines due to disease. They engaged in fishing and agriculture, providing sustenance to settlers. By the early 19th century, their numbers dwindled significantly, with only four individuals remaining by 1802.

Biographical Sketch of Richard Knowles

Richard Knowles, son of Rev. John Knowles, likely born in England, settled in Eastham, Massachusetts, before 1653. He commanded a barque transporting military supplies. His children included Mercy, Colonel John, who died in King Philip’s War, Samuel, Mehitable (two daughters with the same name), and Barbara.