Stonington Connecticut Genealogy

Descendants of Thomas, John and Eleazor Brown

The Brown Family Reunion at Brownstown Pennsylvania

Cyrus Henry Brown’s Brown Genealogy, first published in 1907, is an essential resource for genealogists tracing the Brown family lineage. This volume, published in 1915 and labeled as “Volume II,” should be understood as a complete replacement of the original volume rather than a supplementary addition. Brown’s new research and updates make this work a standalone resource for those exploring the Brown family’s extensive history. It is fully indexed, and the content spans nearly 250 years, offering valuable insight into numerous branches of the family.

Brown Genealogy

In 1895, Cyrus Henry Brown began collecting family records of the Brown family, initially with the intention of only going back to his great-grandfathers. As others became interested in the project, they decided to trace the family lineage back to Thomas Brown and his wife Mary Newhall, both born in the early 1600s in Lynn, Massachusetts. Thomas, John, and Eleazer, three of their sons, later moved to Stonington, Connecticut around 1688. When North Stonington was established in 1807, the three brothers were living in the southern part of the town. Wheeler’s “History of Stonington” contains 400 records of early descendants of the Brown family, taken from the town records of Stonington. However, many others remain unidentified, as they are not recorded in the Stonington town records. For around a century, the descendants of the three brothers lived in Stonington before eventually migrating to other towns in Connecticut and New York State, which was then mostly undeveloped. He would eventually write this second volume of his Brown Genealogy adding to and correcting the previous edition. This book is free to search, read, and/or download.

Ancestors of William Mason of Taunton, Massachusetts

Mason Machine Works - Mason Machine Works, Taunton, Massachusetts, 1899 Catalog

The Mason family of Taunton, Massachusetts, has played a significant role in the area’s business life, particularly in machinery manufacturing. Notably, William Mason, a mechanical genius, made transformative contributions to machinery design, including the self-acting mule and advancements in cotton and woolen machinery. His lineage traces back to Major John Mason, a notable early settler and military leader. Following William’s death in 1883, his son, Frederick Mason, continued the legacy, managing the Mason Machine Works and contributing to the family’s enduring prominence.

1880 Narragansett Detribalization Roll

Final List of the Members of the Narragansett Tribe Entitled to a Share of the Purchase Money 1881.

Biographical Sketch of Doctor Enos Lewis

Doctor Enos Lewis, born on January 19, 1784, in Norwich, was the youngest son of Dr. Joseph Lewis. He studied medicine with his father and graduated from Dartmouth Medical College in 1804. Serving as a U.S. Army surgeon from 1808 to 1810, he later practiced in Norwich after marrying Katurah Denison in 1812. Despite a brief career, he gained recognition for his treatment of spotted fever and contributed to medical education while amassing a significant library. He passed away on September 14, 1823.

Burton Family of Norwich Vermont

Jacob Burton arrived in Norwich from Preston, Connecticut, in 1765 with his family, becoming one of the town’s founding figures. He purchased land that encompassed much of the present Norwich village, erecting the first dwelling there. His son, Reverend Doctor Asa Burton, who faced significant hardships in his youth, pursued education against his father’s initial opposition and later became a prominent minister in Thetford, Vermont. Asa notably expanded his church’s membership from sixteen to nearly five hundred over his lifetime, influencing many future clergy.

Migration of Families out of Norwich VT

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Norwich, Vermont, experienced significant emigration, leading to a notable decline in its population. Initially home to 40 families in 1771, the town saw many residents relocate to newer settlements, such as Royalton and Randolph, during and after the Revolutionary War. Prominent families, including the Hibbards and Carpenters, contributed to the establishment of towns in northern Vermont and beyond. By the 1800s, the trend of outmigration intensified, marking a long-term shift in the region’s demographic landscape.

First Settlements in Norwich Vermont

The early settlement of Norwich, Vermont, began in 1762 when Samuel Slafter’s son, John, explored the area, reporting its fertile land and water sources. In 1763, after receiving his father’s rights, he commenced clearing lots but faced challenges, as his initial choice proved unsuitable. By 1765-66, a few families settled permanently, including the Hutchinsons and Manns, establishing homes and farms. Pioneers endured various hardships, yet they built foundations for a thriving community, characterized by a homogeneous population primarily from Connecticut.

Record Of The Extraordinary Attack On Stonington

On August 9, 1814, British forces led by Captain Thomas M. Hardy issued an ultimatum to the citizens of Stonington, demanding their evacuation within an hour. Despite initial terror, the residents, aided by militia, prepared for an attack that commenced later that evening with bombardment from British ships. Remarkably, the town sustained minimal damage and casualties. After intense fighting, the British withdrew on August 13, suffering losses themselves. The residents remained in fear of further assaults, highlighting their desperate situation.

Names Of Volunteers, From The Connecticut Gazette

The Connecticut Gazette has published a list of volunteers who participated in the defense of Stonington Point during a recent attack. This list includes names from Stonington, Mystic, Groton, New London, and even volunteers from Massachusetts. While the list may not be exhaustive, it honors the bravery and contribution of those who defended the town. An additional note mentions names inadvertently omitted from the previous publication, indicating that more individuals may have been involved in this significant local effort.

Muster-Roll Of Capt. Wm. Potter’s Company

The muster roll details the 8th Company of Infantry, commanded by Captain William Potter, in the Thirtieth Regiment of Connecticut Militia, active from August 9 to August 27, 1814. It includes names, ranks, and service remarks for each enlisted member, noting detachments for service and discharges. The document certifies the accuracy of the information, reflecting the structure and status of the company during this period of service in Stonington under Lieutenant Colonel William Randall’s command.

Account Of The Attack, Published By The Borough Authorities

On August 9, 1814, Stonington Borough experienced an unexpected attack by British naval forces, including the frigate Pactolus and the bomb ship Terror. Captain T. M. Hardy issued a warning to evacuate, but the residents rallied to defend their town, refusing to surrender. Despite being vastly outgunned and low on ammunition, they mounted a spirited resistance against the bombardment, successfully preventing the enemy from landing. The attack resulted in about $4,000 in damages, yet remarkably, no lives were lost among the defenders.

Letter From Capt. Amos Palmer To The Secretary Of War

The October 21, 1815 entry from the Niless Weekly Register recounts the defense of Stonington, showcasing the determination of its citizens against naval bombardment. Led by the committee chairman, the townspeople utilized two 18-pound cannons and their courage to repel attacks from a British fleet on August 9, 1814. Despite intense bombardment that caused extensive property damage, only one local was wounded, while the British suffered significant casualties. The community’s resilience ultimately secured their town’s defense, with ammunition and equipment now stored safely.

Extract From Gen. Root’s Speech In Congress, 1817

In a speech to the House of Representatives regarding militia payment, Mr. Root praised the Defense of Stonington, highlighting it as a significant event overshadowing other military achievements of the war. He criticized Governor Smith of Connecticut for misattributing the victory to his militia, asserting that the success was solely due to a resolute group of fourteen volunteer democrats who defended the town against a naval attack. Their bravery, he argued, earned them lasting recognition and honor for their actions during the incident.

The Battle Of Stonington, By Philip Freneau

Philip Freneau’s “The Battle of Stonington” recounts an August 1814 attack on the Connecticut town by British ships, including the RAMILLIES. Despite the British’s initial bombardment, which caused some damage and chaos, the Americans demonstrated resilience and valor, ultimately thwarting the attackers. The poem highlights the local determination to defend Stonington, portraying a vivid picture of the conflict while emphasizing the British forces’ failure despite their superior numbers and firepower. The battle became a source of pride for the townspeople.

Celebrations Of The Battle of Stonington

From 1815 to 1827, the anniversary of the Battle of Stonington was marked by various celebrations, including thanksgiving services, orations, and grand dinners. Notable events featured speeches by local leaders and prominent citizens, commemorative toasts, and the installation of the Royal Arch Masons. Each year, large processions and festivities highlighted the community’s respect for those who defended their town. The enduring spirit of patriotism and remembrance characterized these observances, strengthening local bonds and honoring the legacy of the battle.

Defense of Stonington Notes

Stonington Borough, established in 1801, is a coastal community with significant infrastructure, including churches, schools, and businesses. By 1810, it had over 3,000 residents. Notable figures include Capt. Amos Palmer, who led local defenses, and Brigadier-General Thomas H. Cushing, who later became a port collector. The town endured a bombardment in 1814, detailed in accounts that highlight the involvement of local volunteers, the persistence of firemen during the attack, and the legacy of valor commemorated in a monument for those who defended the community.

Letters Of Commodore Hardy

The content discusses original letters from Commodore Hardy, now housed in Yale College, addressed to the residents of Stonington and General Isham. The first letter, dated August 9, 1814, grants an hour for residents to evacuate to avoid destruction. The second letter, responding to the magistrates’ concerns, indicates a misunderstanding regarding assurances given to Hardy. A final note acknowledges an apology for a misunderstanding involving a flag of truce. These documents provide insight into Hardy’s interactions with Stonington’s authorities during the War of 1812.

Pequot Tribe

The Pequot Tribe, an Algonquian group in southeastern Connecticut, was a dominant force in the early 17th century, controlling vast territories and instilling fear in neighboring tribes. Under chief Sassacus, they faced significant conflict with colonial forces, culminating in the 1637 Pequot War, which devastated their population and led to their dispersal. Many Pequots were enslaved or merged with other tribes, but a distinct identity persisted. Over the centuries, their numbers dwindled, yet remnants continued to maintain cultural ties into the 19th and 20th centuries.

Mohegan Tribe

The Mohegan, an Algonquian tribe, originated along the Thames River in southeastern Connecticut, claiming territories in parts of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Emerging under Chief Uncas after the Pequot defeat in 1637, the Mohegan allied with English settlers, asserting control over rival territories. As colonial expansion progressed, they focused on a reservation near modern Mohegan and Norwich, leading to population declines through migration and intermarriage. Although their numbers dwindled to around 100 by the early 1800s, they maintained cultural traditions such as the Green Corn festival.