Descendants of Samuel Wright of Lenox, Massachusetts

History of the Wright family, who are descendants of Samuel Wright (1722-1789) of Lenox, Mass., with lineage back to Thomas Wright (1610-1670) of Wethersfield, Conn., (emigrated 1640), showing a direct line to John Wright, Lord of Kelvedon Hall, Essex, England

The “History of the Wright Family” by William Henry Wright and Gertrude Wright Ketchum provides a detailed genealogical account of the descendants of Samuel Wright of Lenox, Massachusetts, tracing their lineage back to Thomas Wright of Wethersfield, Connecticut, and further to John Wright of Kelvedon Hall, Essex, England. This book is a meticulous endeavor to document the lives and movements of a family whose roots reach deep into both American and English soil, showcasing their significant transitions from the early 17th century to the late 19th century. Through painstaking research involving local records, pension applications, and family memorabilia, the authors piece together the lives of their ancestors, revealing a rich tapestry of historical and personal significance that bridges continents and centuries.

Biographical Sketch of Alden, Edmund Kimball

Edmund Kimball Alden, born April 11, 1825, in Randolph, Massachusetts, was a direct descendant of Mayflower passengers John and Priscilla Alden. He graduated from Amherst College in 1844 and Andover Theological Seminary in 1848. Alden served as pastor for several churches, including the First Church of Yarmouth and Phillips Church in Boston. He received an honorary D.D. in 1866 and held various educational trustee positions. Alden married Maria Hyde in 1850 and served as corresponding secretary for the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions.

Biography of Henry Seeley Taylor

Henry Seeley Taylor, born on August 18, 1828, in Bethel, Connecticut, was a respected businessman and prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Pittsfield, where he passed away on September 6, 1891. He co-founded a leading clothing store, which he later managed with his sons. Taylor was known for his integrity, kindness, and dedication to the church, where he served in various roles, including treasurer, and sang in the choir for over 25 years. His legacy is one of inspiring achievement and community service.

Biography of Frank Davis Taylor

Frank Davis Taylor, born on January 20, 1853, in Lenox, Massachusetts, became a prominent figure in Berkshire County’s clothing trade as the head of H. S. Taylor & Sons, founded by his father. After joining the firm in 1876, he led the business to become the oldest of its kind in the county. A respected community leader, he served as a director of Pittsfield National Bank and was involved in various civic activities. Taylor married Virginia Stallman, and they had three children, contributing to his legacy in Pittsfield.

Biographical Sketch of Isaac Hamlin

Isaac Hamlin, born on July 1, 1714, was the sixth child of Deacon Ebenezer and Sarah Hamlin. He moved to Wareham, Massachusetts, where he and his wife were founding members of the local church. After several relocations, including to Sharon and later Lenox, Massachusetts, he became involved in local commerce by owning a share in the Sharon Iron Works and establishing a mill in Lenox. Isaac married Mary Gibbs in 1737, and they had nine children, contributing to the community’s growth and development.