Alphabetical indexes to the vital records of Bellingham, Massachusetts, up to the year 1850, supplemented by information from bible records, church registers, cemetery inscriptions and other private sources to include the diary kept by Samuel Wight and his daughters.
This history of Montville, Connecticut spans from 1640 to 1896, highlighting the interactions between early colonial settlers and the Mohegan tribe, particularly regarding land disputes and legal challenges. The text, largely genealogical, traces the ancestry of local families across over 500 pages while detailing the region’s evolution from native subsistence to a burgeoning Colonial economy complete with industries like grist-mills, saw-mills, and the manufacturers of bog-iron and textiles.
The “Governor and Company of Massachusetts Bay” established a judicial system in 1628, with a General Court in Boston and quarterly courts in major towns like Salem and Ipswich by 1635. These courts managed probate matters, and after Essex County’s formation in 1643, individual probate courts were later established in 1692. These are the probate records from 1675 to 1681, sourced from various original documents, including detailed wills and estate settlements.
“History of the City of Buffalo and Erie County” by Henry Perry Smith, published in 1884, offers an extensive and detailed account of the development of Buffalo and Erie County. This two-volume work, enriched with illustrations and biographical sketches, serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the historical progression of the region from its earliest days through the 19th century. Volume I focuses on the history of Erie County, New York, and its townships, excluding Buffalo. For the detailed history of Buffalo, readers should refer to Volume II.
Hampton History: an account of the Pennsylvania Hamptons in America in the line of John Hampton, Jr., of Wrightstown; with an appendix treating of some other branches.
A history of Peaks Island and its people: also a short history of House Island, Portland, Maine. In presenting this history of two of the best known islands in Portland Harbor, it has been the intention of the author to give only the story of the early days of those islands, and of the families who have contributed to their history.
Edd Shirley, a 97-year-old janitor from Tompkinsville, Kentucky, recounts his experiences as a slave, having been owned by three families. He describes the varied treatment of slaves, noting some were treated well if compliant, while others faced severe cruelty. Shirley shares a harrowing account of witnessing brutal whippings, contrasting these experiences with occasional festivities held by slaves after work. He reflects on the relative kindness of some slave owners and mentions his grandfather, who lived to be 115 without ever being sick.
Red Jacket exhibited a strong self-esteem and unwavering confidence in his abilities, which allowed him to engage equally with prominent figures without feeling intimidated. He maintained his dignity in all interactions, even humorously challenging those who approached him with disregard. Known for his keen memory and adaptability, he often defended the interests of his people while displaying a disdain for superficiality. Red Jacket cherished nature’s grandeur, especially Niagara Falls, and he navigated social interactions with an innate refinement, embodying the qualities of a true gentleman.