The first person by the name of DURFEE in America, of whom any record can be found was Thomas DURFEE, who came to Portsmouth in the colony of Rhode Island previous to the year 1664, and by traditional information we are led to believe that he came in the year 1660.
The recorded evidence of his appearing at the session of the Colonial General Assembly of Rhode Island, in October 1664, carries unmistakable proof of his presence in the Colony many months previous to that ses sion.
Noted events in his life were:
1. MOVE: Moved; 1660; Portsmouth, Newport County, RI.
2. Will; 1712; Portsmouth, Newport County, RI. "1710, Febrauary 4th. Will proved 1712, July 14. Exx. wife Deliverance .
"To wife, housing and land in Portsmouth for life, and then to daughte rs, Patience Tallman, and Deliverance DURFEE equally.
"To eldest son, Robert (5) shillings, having already settled certain l ands in Freetown upon him.
"To son Thomas, five (5) shillings, he having had already.
"To son William, five (5) shillings, he having had more than £40.
"To youngest son Benjamin, 50 acres in Tiverton.
"To wife, Deliverance, a negro called Jock, for life, and at her deat h the value of said negro, equally, to two daughters.
"To grandson Richard, eldest son of Richard, deceased, five (5) shilli ngs.
"To grandson, Thomas, son of Richard
Thomas married Deliverance Hall-[2] [MRIN:1], daughter of Unknown and Unknown.
The information on Deliverance's birth and mother is from Gene Pool Individual Records, a database on the internet at Ancestry.com, June 2000. The information is from a medical research group studying genetics. There are numerous errors in this database and all information must be verified from other sources.
Another record says her mother was Mary Thorpe.
They had the following children:
2 M i. Robert Durfee-[4] was born in 1665.
3 M ii. Richard Durfee-[5] .
+ 4 M iii. Thomas Durfee-[6] 1 was born about 1643 in Prob. England 2 and died in Jul 1712 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI 2
5 M iv. William Durfee-[7] was born in 1673.
6 F v. Ann Durfee-[8] .
7 M vi. Benjamin Durfee-[9] was born in 1679.
8 F vii. Patience Durfee-[13] 1 was born between 1685-1688 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI and died in 1723 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI. User ID:53.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executrix and left " ... To wife, house and land in Portsmouth for life and then to daughters Patience Tallman, and Deliverance DURFEE equally. To wife, Deliverance, a Negro called Jock for life, and at her death the value of said slave to two daughters. To wife, Deliverance, and two daughters, rest of land; to wife all moveable estate. ... "
From the will of Deliverance (Hall) DURFEE dated April 8, 1718, and proved February 13, 1721. "...to daughter Patience Tallman, two iron pots, an iron kettle, all my cups, handkerchiefs, aprons and shifts, only one to be buried in; and a cedar tub and the rowing boat ".
Information on Patience is from The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE by William Field. Reed, Washington, DC., 1902, Volume 1, pages 31-37.
Reed states that Benjamin was born January 28, 1684, but another source says January 28, 1685.
Benjamin was a farmer and cordwainer.
In his will dated July 5, 1755, and proved August 13, 1759, he named his wife Deborah executrix and mentioned his son Benjamin, daughter Mary Fish, daughter Deliverance Sisson, daughter Patience Tallman, sons William and James, daughter Sarah Godfrey, to granddaughters Bethaniah and Freelove Tallman, each to receive half the bounty money that was their father's (John Tallman) on account of the expedition against Cape Breton. Also mentioned were grandsons William and Samuel, sons of James. Tallman Ancestry. An abstract of Benjamin's will is also found in William Reed's the Descendants of Thomas DURFEE in Vol. 1, page 37.
Patience married someone on 23 Sep 1708 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI.
9 F viii. Deliverance Durfee-[14] 1 was born about 1690 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI and died after 1745 in Prob. Portsmouth, Newport County, RI. User ID:7.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executrix and left " ... To wife, house and land in Portsmouth for life and then to daughters Patience Tallman, and Deliverance DURFEE equally. To wife, Deliverance, a Negro called Jock for life, and at her death the value of said slave to two daughters. To wife, Deliverance, and two daughters, rest of land; to wife all moveable estate. ... ".
The will of Deliverance DURFEE, Thomas' widow, was dated April 8, 1718, and proved February 13, 1721, at Portsmouth. In it she bequeathed to her daughter Deliverance DURFEE " ... the bed on which I now on at my son-in-law, Tallman's, and all moveables ... ".
The birth of Thomas Cory is from Grace DURFEE. He was not listed in Reed.
William died of disease or was killed in battle at the siege of the French fortress at Louisbourg in Nova Scotia, Canada.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 38-40.
Also information from the notes of Mrs. Grace (Stafford) DURFEE of Tiverton, Newport County, RI. 1984.
Deliverance married someone on 23 Apr 1724 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI.
Thomas also married someone.
They had the following children:
+ 10 M i. Joseph Durfee-[98] 1 was born on 27 Apr 1750 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 3 and died on 10 Dec 1841 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA 3
+ 11 M ii. Thomas Durfee-[184] 1 was born on 5 Nov 1721 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 4 and died on 19 Jul 1796 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA 4
Thomas' date of birth is from a deposition he made on August 16, 1679, wherein he stated that he was " ... aged about thirty six years ... ". Obviously he did not know his exact age. Rhode Island Land Evidence Volume 1, pages188-189. No other reference to his date or place of birth has been found.
It has been assumed by most writers that he was born in England even though there is no positive evidence of it. The fact that he was never referred to as a foreigner or a Frenchman and that he was literate in the English language supports that assumption.
The first record of Thomas DURFEE in America was as a witness, on a deed dated January 20, 1661(or June 28, 1661), whereby King Alexander (Wamsetta), elder brother of King Philip, and chief of the Wampanog Tribe, sold land to Peter Tallman, of Portsmouth, Newport County, RI. Those who signed as witnesses were Richard Bulgar (alias Archer), Edward Lay, John Sasoman the Interpreter Indian, Thomas Durfi, and Alexander. Lay and Alexander signed with a mark, the others were able to write their names. From Rhode Island Land Evidence Volume 1, page 189, and Plymouth (MA) Court Records Volume 4 or 5.
It is likely that he arrived in 1660, or shortly before. It is unlikely that, at about seventeen years of age, he could pay for passage to America and it is possible that he came as an indentured servant, and that he worked for an unknown number of years for whoever paid for his passage. It is my belief that he was bound to Peter Tallman because of his early and long association with Peter and his family. As early as January of 1661, he must have still been working off his debt and he was with Peter Tallman at the time the previously mentioned deed was written.
The next record was in May 1662, when he was admitted as a resident of Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, at a Town Meeting by vote of the freemen. This probably marked the end of his servitude. From Town Meeting Records of Portsmouth.
On October 13, 1663, he was charged with selling gunpowder to the Indians and fined five pounds. At the same court session he was charged with " ... speaking and uttering words of great contempt against the Government of this Colony ... ". He was required to post a twenty pound bond and forbidden to leave the Colony without the court's permission. From Rhode Island Court Records, Volume 2, page 57, now located in the office of the Rhode Island Secretary of State. The Rhode Island Historical Society published these records in 1920, and in that publication the information appears on page 215.
There is no direct or positive evidence that Ann (Hill) Tallman was Thomas' first wife, but there is a substantial amount of circumstantial evidence. A careful study and evaluation of the records of the Rhode Island Court of Trials as published in the Colonial Records of Rhode Island 1664-1677, Volume 2, pages 120-130, and Rhode Island Evidence, Volume 1, pages 188-190 indicates that as early as June 1664, Peter Tallman complained to the court about a relationship between Ann and Thomas and Thomas was ordered to post a good behavior bond of 20 pounds. At the October session of the court, at the insistence of Peter Tallman, Thomas was tried for breach of bond and fined.
At the December 1664, session of the Newport County Court of Trials Peter Tallman complained " ... that by reason of the insolent carriadge of Thomas DURFEE with sayd Tallman's wife, and the danger therein etc. ... ". Rhode Island Court Records, Rhode Island Historical Society, 1920, Volume 2, pages 57-59. It would appear that Ann and Peter were separated during this entire period beginning before June 1664, until their divorce in May 1665.
Thomas' son Robert was born in 1665. Reed stated that he visited Robert's grave and that the headstone was inscribed Lieut. Robert DURFEE. Died May 10, 1718. Aged 53 years. It is not known where Reed found the date March 10.
On May 15, 1665, Peter Tallman petitioned the court for a divorce from Ann. The court asked her if she would return to her husband and Ann replied " ... that she would rather cast herself on the mercy of God if He take away her life, than returne ... ". Peter was granted a bill of divorcement on the grounds of adultery. At that same court session Thomas was charged with fornication. The evidence of the charge against Ann was a child not fathered by Peter Tallman.
In 1665, Peter Tallman sued King Philip, Chief of the Wampanog Tribe for failing to honor the deed of his elder, deceased brother, King Alexander, to Peter Tallman. In this record the date on the deed is June 28, 1661, but in other records the date is January 28, 1661. No doubt this is the result of poor hand writing. Plymouth Court Records, Volume 4 or 5.
On May 6, 1673, Thomas was admitted a freeman of Portsmouth, Newport County, RI.
Thomas was granted a license to sell victuals and drink to travelers at a town meeting held on April 23, 1679.
On August 16, 1679, " Richard Bulgar (alias Archer ) aged seventy years ... and Thomas Durfi aged about thirty six years, all of ... Portsmouth ... doe testify that on January 20, 1661, the ... Indian Sachim caled Wamsetta Sepawquit or Alexander at the time of the signeing ... was in a very sober condition and not any way over-come in or by drink ... it was his free ... act ... the said subscriber was the eldest brother of Sachim Philip ( Who first began the late Indian warr with the English ) and was Chief Sachim of these Parts & deceased before the warr: Edward Lay of ... Portsmouth aged about seventy years ... doth testefie to the truth of all that is above ... 16th of August ... 1679 Before me. John Sanford Assistant ". Rhode Island Evidence Volume 1, page 189.
On June 8, 1683, Peter Tallman, late of Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, now of Guilford, CT, cordwainer, sold 8 acres at Common Fence Point in Portsmouth to Thomas DURFEE. Thomas deeded this 8 acres and his house to his son Thomas January 30, 1689.
The will of Abiel Tripp dated September 9, 1684, and proved October 1, 1684, is recorded in the Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, Land Evidence 2nd Book No 1 page 236. In it he mentions wife Deliverance and son Abiel who is under 16 years of age.
Thomas DURFEE was appointed constable of Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, on June 14, 1687. Bartlett's Records of the Colony of Rhode Island, Volume 3, page 230. On April 2, 1690, he was appointed constable again.
On January 30, 1698, Thomas deeded his son Thomas " ... for love, etc, my dwelling house, and the land belonging to it, situate in a place called Common Fence, near Pocasset River, eight acres in extent ... ". From The Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode Island, by John Osborne Austin. Albany. 1887. Page 68.
On April 4, 1691, he was chosen one of the Overseers of the Poor. On April 4, 1692, and again on April 20, 1694, he was elected to the town Council.
On August 2, 1698, Thomas and his wife Deliverance were granted a license by the Assembly, as was John Border, to continue operating a ferry between Rhode Island and Bristol until Abiel Tripp's heir (his son Abiel Jr.) comes of age in about 7 years. Bartlett's Records of the Colony of Rhode Island, Volume 3 page 346.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, at Portsmouth, Thomas left seven pounds to Ann Potter, wife of William Potter. He does not state her relationship to him as he does for every other person mentioned in his will. William Reed in The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE assumes that Ann was Thomas' daughter, as have many other researchers.
Peter and Ann (Hill) Tallman had a daughter named Ann who married 1st Stephen Brayton and 2nd, about 1692, William Potter. Boston Transcript, Genealogy Column, November 10, 1932, # 2544. Ann Potter died in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, in 1731. There was only one William Potter who lived in Portsmouth at that time and he is the one who married Ann Tallman. It is almost certain that she was the Ann Potter mentioned in Thomas' will. William Potter was the son of Nathaniel and Elizabeth (Stokes) Potter.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executrix and left " ... To wife, house and land in Portsmouth for life and then to daughters Patience Tallman, and Deliverance DURFEE equally. To eldest son, Robert 5 shillings, having already settled certain lands in Freetown upon him. To son Thomas 5 shillings, he having had already. To son William, 5 shillings, he having had more than 40 pounds. To youngest son, Benjamin, 50 acres in Tiverton. To wife, Deliverance, a Negro called Jock for life, and at her death the value of said slave to two daughters. To grandson Richard, eldest son of Richard, deceased, 5 shillings. To grandson, Thomas, son of Richard, 60 acres in Tiverton. To Ann Potter, wife of William Potter, 7 pounds. To wife, Deliverance, and two daughters, rest of land; to wife all moveable estate. ... ".
The will of Deliverance DURFEE, Thomas' widow, was dated April 8, 1718, and proved February 13, 1721, at Portsmouth.
Genealogies of Rhode Island. Genealogical Publishing Company. Baltimore, MD, 1983. Two Volumes. Volume 2, pages 179-182.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 14-19.
The Descendants of John Warden. William A. Warden. 1901. Pages 44-50. This work contains many errors.
Thomas married Ann Hill-[5583] [MRIN:802], daughter of Philip Hill-[746] and __________ Ann-[747], about 1664 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI.
Peter Tallman and Ann Hill were married in Christ Church Parish in Barbados according to a deposition made by Peter Tallman, at his home in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, March 13, 1702/03.
Ann and Peter were divorced in Portsmouth, in May, 1665. Tallman Ancestry.
They had the following children:
12 M i. Robert Durfee-[5597] 1 was born on 10 Mar 1665 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI and died on 10 May 1718 in Freetown, Bristol County, RI. User ID:5597.
Reed stated that he visited Robert's grave and that the headstone was inscribed Lieut. Robert DURFEE. Died May 10, 1718. Aged 53 years. It is not known where Reed found the date March 10.
On August 20, 1692, Robert DURFEE, of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, bought from his brother-in-law John Sanford 20 acres of land in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI.
On February 6, 1698, Robert DURFEE, of Freetown, bought 35 acres of land in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, from Peleg Sherman and Daniel Wilbur.
On November 1, 1700, he served on a committee to settle a dispute over the boundary between Freetown, Bristol County, MA, and Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
According to the New England Historical and Genealogical Register issue of 1866, on page 222, Robert was a lieutenant of militia, a town selectman for 4 years, an assessor for 4 years, town clerk for 1 year and a representative to the General Court in 1716.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executor and left " ... To eldest son, Robert 5 shillings, having already settled certain lands in Freetown upon him. ... ".
On July 8, 1712, Robert DURFEE, of Freetown, sold land in Plymouth, Plymouth County, MA. Plymouth County Registry of Deeds in Taunton, Bristol County, MA. Book 9, page 268.
On May 30, 1716, Robert DURFEE, representative of Freetown, was " ... accused of not being regular in his habits of public worship ... was charged, convicted and fined for profanation of the Lord's day ... ". Journals of the House of Representatives (MA), 1715-1717. Volume 1.
Robert DURFEE's will was proved June 2, 1718, in the Bristol County Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA. Robert left " ... to my wife, Mary DURFEE, all moveables ... except a stone house to son Thomas. ... meadow to wife and after her death to be divided to son Peleg and daughters Mary and Eliza. ... to Thomas, John, Benjamin, Peleg, Mary and Elizabeth land at Pocasset Ferry, Rhode Island, that I bought of John Sanford. Wife Mary to be executor.
Robert's widow, Mary, married Jeremiah Thomas April 29, 1720. From Middleborough Marriages Book 1, page 54.
Jeremiah Thomas had eleven children by his first wife.
On June 27, 1731, Mary (Sanford) (DURFEE) Thomas, grandmother, brought Sanford Durfey to the Congregational Church of Middleboro, Plymouth County, MA, to be baptized, both parents being dead. Congregational Church Records page 25.
In his will dated September 29, 1735, Jeremiah left to his wife Mary cattle, swine, utensils, money paid each year, etc. He also mentioned, among his children by his first wife, sons Jedediah and Ebenezer Thomas. From the Society of Mayflower Descendants. Volume 20, page 131.
Reed states, incorrectly, that Mary died in Freetown, Bristol County, MA, November 15, 1748. She died in 1749, in Middleboro, Plymouth County, MA. Jeremiah and Mary Thomas were buried in the cemetery on the green in Middleboro, Plymouth County, MA. A record of her death is found in the First Congregational Church Records on page 98, and in the Middleborough Cemetery Records on page 1.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 19-21
Robert married someone before 1701 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI.
13 M ii. Richard Durfey-[1116] 1 was born about 1667 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI and died BET. MAR - APR 1700 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:1116.
Ann DURFEE, widow, and Robert DURFEE (Richard's brother) took an inventory of the estate of Richard Durfie, late of Tiverton, deceased, on April 10, 1700, which was recorded in the Bristol County Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA, on June 14, 1700, in Book 2 Page 20.
In his will dated September 4, 1708, a codicil dated September 17, 1711, and proved February 9, 1713, Christopher Almy, the father of Ann (Almy) Durfey, grants "... to grandson Richard DURFEE, 60 pounds, ... to grandson Thomas DURFEE 10 pounds, at 21, ... to granddaughter Mary Wodell, 20 pounds ... to granddaughter Amey DURFEE, 20 pounds at 21. He did not mention his daughter Ann, nor did he mention his granddaughters Ann or Hope. It is not clear whether the above information is from the will in 1708 or the codicil in 1711. The reason that the year it was written is important is because it would help to establish the date of birth of four of Richard's children. Both Richard and Mary were over 21 years of age when it was written and Thomas and Amey were both under 21.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executrix and left " ... To grandson Richard, eldest son of Richard, deceased, 5 shillings. To grandson, Thomas, son of Richard, 60 acres in Tiverton ... ".
Hope DURFEE was a resident of Newport when she married Jacob Anthony in 1713, so it is quite possible that her mother Ann (Almy) (DURFEE) Jefferson, if still living, also lived there. Ann may have died before 1708, as she was not mentioned in her father's will which was dated 1708 and had a codicil dated 1711.
Information on Christopher Almy, his daughter Ann Almy, her marriages to Richard Durfey and later to Benjamin Jefferson and her children is from Genealogies of Rhode Island. Genealogy Publishing Company. 1983. Baltimore. Volume 1 Page 311. The Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode Island by John Osborne Austin. Albany. 1887. Pages 236-237 and 68-69. The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Two Volumes. Volume 1 Pages 21-23. All three sources agree on these data.
The only information in Reed's Descendants of Thomas DURFEE on Richard's children is their births.
According to Alden Beaman in Rhode Island Vital Records, New Series, Volume 11, page 230, a Benjamin Jefferson, mariner, had a wife named Elizabeth who died April 23, 1750, age 70 who was buried in the Common Burial Ground in Newport, Newport County, RI. This may or may not have been Ann (Almy) Durfey's Benjamin Jefferson and Elizabeth might have been his second wife.
Richard married someone between 1684-1687 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI.
14 M iii. Thomas Durfee-[4112] 1 was born on 28 Mar 1669 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI and died on 11 Feb 1729 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI 5. User ID:4112.
On January 30, 1698, Thomas deeded his son Thomas "... for love, etc, my dwelling house, and the land belonging to it, situate in a place called Common Fence, near Pocasset River, eight acres in extent ...". From The Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode Island, by John Osborne Austin. Albany. 1887. Page 68.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executrix and left " ... To son Thomas 5 shillings, he having had already. ... ".
In 1707-1709 and 1713, Thomas was chosen to be the Deputy from Portsmouth to the General Assembly in Providence.
In his will dated January 27, 1715, and proved March 14, 1720, Gideon Freeborn, father of Ann, left "... to daughters Sarah Wanton, Ann DURFEE, Martha Cornell, Susanna Freeborn and Patience Anthony, five hundred acres of land in Pennsylvania equally; ... to grandson Gideon DURFEE one hundred acres of land in Coweset ... to granddaughters ... Ann, Sarah, Patience, Mary, Martha, Susanna and Elizabeth DURFEE ... each forty shillings at eighteen ... to grandsons Thomas and Job DURFEE, each fifty acres of land in Coweset ... to daughter Ann DURFEE, twenty five pounds ... ". Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, Wills Book 2, pages 86, 87, and 140-143.
Thomas and Ann were members of the Society of Friends, Quakers.
On June 18, 1717, Thomas and Ann petitioned the Assembly " ... for a good and sufficient highway to be laid out to his farm at Common Fence Point, he having already applied to the committee of the town of Portsmouth, but did not obtain it. The Assembly ordered the committee to lay out, within one month's time a good lawful and passable highway fit for horses and carts to pass and repass ... ".
On October 13, 1720, he answered the suit of Stephen Broyton (Probably should be Brayton) " ... for impounding an ox , saying that the said ox was unruly and broke into his meadow with other cattle ...".
Susannah Freeborn never married. In her will dated November 16, 1723 (Must be error and either this or her death date wrong), and proved February 10, 1724, among those mentioned were " ... sister Ann DURFEE's seven daughters, viz: Ann Estes, Sarah Dennis, Patience, Mary, Martha, Susanna and Elizabeth DURFEE ... ". Freeborn DURFEE was not mentioned and was probably already dead.
On May 25, 1728, Thomas deeded to his son Gideon " ... for love, etc., my farm called Common Fence Point farm, being the most northerly part of Rhode Island, of sixty acres ... ".
On May 29, 1728, he deeded to his son Thomas fourteen acres and in July of the same year another twenty five acres.
Reed states, incorrectly, that Thomas died February 24, 1729. That is the date his will was proved.
Thomas' will dated February 9, 1729 and proved February 24, 1729, was recorded in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI. His son Gideon was executor. In it he left " ... to son Gideon four parcels of land ... in consideration of this legacy Gideon is to give to son Job the tract of land called Common Fence Point that I formerly deeded to my son Gideon ... when Job comes of age he is to share equally with my son Thomas the lands at Common Fence Point and two other parcels I previously deeded to son Thomas ... land specified is to be sold by executor and money equally divided between seven daughters, viz: Ann Estes, Sarah Dennis, Patience, Mary, Martha, Susanna and Elizabeth DURFEE ... to five unmarried daughters household goods and the right to live in house while unmarried ... to sons Gideon, Thomas and Job all remaining livestock and farm implements. Job, being under age chose his uncle Gideon Freeborn, for guardian and Elizabeth also underage chose her uncle William Anthony for guardian. The estate was valued at five hundred and fifty pounds and twelve shillings. Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, Wills Book 3, pages 105-106.
Ann's father Gideon Freeborn represented Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, in the General Assembly 1716-1728, and in 1729. Her grandfather William Freeborn arrived in America on the ship Frances on April 10, 1634.
Information on Freeborns and Brownells is from The Descendants Of Thomas Brownell by George Grant Brownell. Jamestown, NY. 1910. Page 37.
The information on Thomas' service as Portsmouth's delegate to the General Assembly and his petition for a road to his farm if from The Colonial Records of Rhode Island by John Bartlett, Volume 4, pages 28, 62, 147, and 219.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 18 and 23.
Thomas married someone about 1690 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI.
15 M iv. William Durfee-[745] 1 was born about 1673 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI and died in 1727 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:15.
Between 1690 and 1697, when he married Ann, William's father gave him a large tract of land in Tiverton where he settled and built his home. He owned several slaves. This farm was owned by William's descendants for several generations.
On June 14, 1697, William and his wife Ann sold ten acres of land in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, to William Burlingame for 50 pounds. From Austin's Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode Island, page 33.
About 1698, William registered the earmark of his cattle with the Tiverton Town Clerk.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executrix and left " ... To son William, 5 shillings, he having had more than 40 pounds. ... ".
On June 3, 1724, William Durfey and the other assessors of Tiverton (then part of Massachusetts) were summoned to appear before the Assembly to give reasons for not correctly assessing taxes in Tiverton. From the Journals of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, Volume 6, pages 18 and 30.
In his will dated February 16, 1726, and proved June 7, 1727, William Durfey, yeoman, of Tiverton, directed that his debts be paid by his sons Samuel and Joseph Durfey, who were appointed executors. To his wife he left certain articles and a Negro woman, to son Samuel land and a Negro boy, to son Joseph land and a Negro boy. Each son is to pay sister Abigail 50 pounds each in the first year and 25 pounds in the second year. to son David 5 shillings, he having given him already in the farm where he lives, 1000 pounds. Tiverton was part of Massachusetts at that time and his will was recorded in the Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA, in Book 5 Page 431.
His wife Mary was still living in 1726 when he wrote his will.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1 Pages 18 and 27.
A Patchwork History of Tiverton, Rhode Island. Tiverton Bicentennial Committee. 1976. Pages 50-51.
William married someone before 14 Jun 1697.
William also married someone before 1705.
+ 16 M v. Benjamin Durfee-[1224] 1 was born in 1679 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI 6 and died on 6 Jan 1754 in Newport, Newport County, RI 6
Thomas also married Deliverance Hall-[2] [MRIN:803], daughter of Unknown and Unknown, between 1684-1686 in Prob. Portsmouth, Newport County, RI.
The information on Deliverance's birth and mother is from Gene Pool Individual Records, a database on the internet at Ancestry.com, June 2000. The information is from a medical research group studying genetics. There are numerous errors in this database and all information must be verified from other sources.
Another record says her mother was Mary Thorpe.
They had the following children:
17 F i. Patience Durfee-[13] 1 was born between 1685-1688 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI and died in 1723 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI. User ID:53.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executrix and left " ... To wife, house and land in Portsmouth for life and then to daughters Patience Tallman, and Deliverance DURFEE equally. To wife, Deliverance, a Negro called Jock for life, and at her death the value of said slave to two daughters. To wife, Deliverance, and two daughters, rest of land; to wife all moveable estate. ... "
From the will of Deliverance (Hall) DURFEE dated April 8, 1718, and proved February 13, 1721. "...to daughter Patience Tallman, two iron pots, an iron kettle, all my cups, handkerchiefs, aprons and shifts, only one to be buried in; and a cedar tub and the rowing boat ".
Information on Patience is from The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE by William Field. Reed, Washington, DC., 1902, Volume 1, pages 31-37.
Reed states that Benjamin was born January 28, 1684, but another source says January 28, 1685.
Benjamin was a farmer and cordwainer.
In his will dated July 5, 1755, and proved August 13, 1759, he named his wife Deborah executrix and mentioned his son Benjamin, daughter Mary Fish, daughter Deliverance Sisson, daughter Patience Tallman, sons William and James, daughter Sarah Godfrey, to granddaughters Bethaniah and Freelove Tallman, each to receive half the bounty money that was their father's (John Tallman) on account of the expedition against Cape Breton. Also mentioned were grandsons William and Samuel, sons of James. Tallman Ancestry. An abstract of Benjamin's will is also found in William Reed's the Descendants of Thomas DURFEE in Vol. 1, page 37.
Patience married someone on 23 Sep 1708 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI.
18 F ii. Deliverance Durfee-[14] 1 was born about 1690 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI and died after 1745 in Prob. Portsmouth, Newport County, RI. User ID:7.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executrix and left " ... To wife, house and land in Portsmouth for life and then to daughters Patience Tallman, and Deliverance DURFEE equally. To wife, Deliverance, a Negro called Jock for life, and at her death the value of said slave to two daughters. To wife, Deliverance, and two daughters, rest of land; to wife all moveable estate. ... ".
The will of Deliverance DURFEE, Thomas' widow, was dated April 8, 1718, and proved February 13, 1721, at Portsmouth. In it she bequeathed to her daughter Deliverance DURFEE " ... the bed on which I now on at my son-in-law, Tallman's, and all moveables ... ".
The birth of Thomas Cory is from Grace DURFEE. He was not listed in Reed.
William died of disease or was killed in battle at the siege of the French fortress at Louisbourg in Nova Scotia, Canada.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 38-40.
Also information from the notes of Mrs. Grace (Stafford) DURFEE of Tiverton, Newport County, RI. 1984.
10. Joseph Durfee-[98] 1 (Thomas1) was born on 27 Apr 1750 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 3 and died on 10 Dec 1841 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA 3. User ID:1127.Deliverance married someone on 23 Apr 1724 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI.
Ebenezer Weaver Pierce of Assonet Village, Freetown, Mass., states in his sketches of Fall River and Freetown that "Col. DURFEE removed to Tiverton, R.I., and was elected to a seat in the General Assembly of that State, but spent his last years in and died at Assonet." While livi ng in Tiverton, in 1816, he and his wife, with others, organized the F irst Congressional Church of Fall River, Mass.
The Commissioner of Pensions, at Washington, D.C., in reply to a request, on August 23, 1895, gave from the records of his office a statement of the military service of Col. DURFEE as follows, viz :
"In the year 1775 he was commissioned as Captain, and raised a company of minute men, which company was stationed at Fall River, Mass., fo r about 15 months; he then took command of a company of about 60 men a nd marched to the State of New York, where he joined the regiment commanded by Col. Thomas Carpenter, and in a few days after his arrival wa s actively engaged in the battle of White Plains; remained in New York State until November, 1776, when he marched with his company to Tiverton, R.I., and joined the regiment commanded by Col. John Cook, which regiment he assisted in covering the retreat of the American troops from that island (probably the island of Rhode Island is meant). Late in the year 1776 he was commissioned as Major in the regiment commanded by Col. John Hathaway, and was stationed at Little Compton, R.I., for about six months; in February or March, 1778, was stationed as a Major with 20 men under his command at Fall River, Mass. In May of that year was engaged in a skirmish with the British troops at that place, and compelled them to retreat with the loss of several men killed and wounded. August, 1778, he joined Gen. Sullivan's expedition to Rhode Is land, and served as a Major in Col. Whitney's regiment about one month. From thence he went to Pawtucket and did duty as a Major until Decem ber, 1778, a period of about 3 months. In January of February, 1779, he received a Lieutenant-Colonel's commission, and with his regiment joined Gen. Cornell's brigade at Tiverton, R.I., where he continued to serve until the evacuation of the island by the British troops in October, 1779. From that time until he left the service, late in December, 1779, he was stationed at Newport."
Col. DURFEE's will, dated Fall River, Mass., April 17, 1834, is record ed on page 473, of book No. _", Probate records, at Taunton, Mass., and is in part shown as follows:
"Item.-To wife Elizabeth, house and land bought of Nichols.
"Item.-To son Aaron great arm chair and cushion and round mahogany table and wearing apparel.
"Item-To grandson John DURFEE Wilson watch, desk, high post bedstead a nd cord; one feather bed, one straw bed, two blankets, two sheets, one bolster, two pillows and pillow case and great Bible.
"Item.-All real and personal estate to wife Elizabeth."
A codicil changes executor from Aaron DURFEE, his son, to John Nichols , January 25, 1841.
This change of executor was no doubt made necessary from the fact tha this son Aaron, some years before, removed to the State of Illinois .
The will of Mrs. Elizabeth DURFEE, widow of Col. Joseph DURFEE, dated Freetown, Mass., March 3, 1854, at Taunton, Mass., and the following items are embraced in it.
"To son William Nichols $1.00. To grandson Eleazer Nichols $1.00. To daughter Chloe Hills wife of David Hills all other estate &c. Appoints son-in-law David Hills executor."
Mr. S.A. Chace, in an article on the Military History of Fall River previous to 1824, published in the Fall River "Evening News," March 24, 1897, mentions the period of the Revolutionary was as follows, viz :
"During the early part of the war which followed the Declaration of Independence, Tiverton and the part of Freetown now included in the city of Fall River was constantly harassed and distressed by the enemy, whose ships were often at Newport and farther up the Narragansett Bay .
"On a Sunday morning, the 25th of May 1778, about 150 British troops came up the bay in boats and landed at Fall River. They first set fire to the house of Thomas Borden, near the shore, and to his grist and saw-mills located near where the Metacomet mill is now standing. These buildings were entirely destroyed. The men of the place rallied under the command of Colonel, then Major, Joseph DURFEE, and after a brave and spirited resistance, repulsed the invaders and compelled them to retreat. They left two men killed, near what is now the junction of South Main and Pocasset streets. In their retreat they were closely pursued to the shore, and another man was killed after stepping on board one of the boats. In their retreat they also set fire to several houses, one of which was the house of Richard Borden, then an old man.
"These fires were all extinguished by the vigilance of their pursueers, but they did secure the old man as a prisoner and carried him off in one of their boats. As they approached Bristol Ferry, the Americans on shore began to fire on the boats, and Mr. Borden, with the grit and sagacity of his race, which has been so efficient in the development of this city, laid himself down in the bottom of the boat. To this his captors objected, and attempted to force him to sit up and take the same chances for being hit that they had. In this he would not aid them, and they attempted to stand him up by main force. During this operation two the the Englishmen who were holding him up were shot and fell overboard. Mr. Borden was soon after released on parole. The Englishmen who were killed in the engagement before the retreat were buried on the same day near the place where they fell, the head of one laid beside the feet of the other.
Joseph was the captain of a company of minute men stationed in Fall River in 1775. He later commanded a company of 60 men in Colonel Thomas Carpenter's Regiment which joined Washington in White Plains, NY, and fought in the battle there a few days after arriving. In November 1776, he returned to Rhode Island and served in Colonel Cook's regiment in the battle of Rhode Island. Late in the year 1776, he was commissioned Major in Colonel John Hathaway's Regiment and was stationed in Little Compton, Newport County, RI, for 6 months. On Sunday morning May 25 (or May 31),1778, a British force of about 150 soldiers landed at Fall River and began burning the houses of Thomas Borden and Richard Borden and several other buildings. Major Joseph DURFEE, who was stationed at Fall River, with a hastily gathered force of 20-25 men that included his brother Benjamin, successfully drove off the British, killing three and wounding several others in the process. The size of Joseph's force increased as more men, hearing the noise of the battle and seeing the smoke of the burning buildings, rushed to the scene. In August 1778, he went on the Sullivan Campaign in Rhode Island.
He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in January 1779, of Light Infantry in Colonel John Jacob's regiment, and then full Colonel in 1782. The record of Joseph's military service is from the National Archives Revolutionary Service Records # 4263 and 4264. Also from an article by S. A. Chase in the March 24, 1897, issue of the Fall River Evening News with the title the Military History of Fall River.
When the U. S. 1790 census of Tiverton, Newport County, RI, was taken Joseph's family was 2 males over 16, 3 males under 16, and 7 females.
Elizabeth's father was a physician. Reed states that they were married in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, but Mrs Helen Thomas of East Freetown, Bristol County, MA, in 1985, states that they were both of Freetown, and were married in Freetown, September 24, 1772. Elizabeth's death was noted in the May 28, 1817, issue of the Rhode Island Republican newspaper which stated that she was 64 at the time of death.
Walter Chaloner, of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was the master of the sloop Swallow, 47 tons, built in 1786. It hailed from Freetown and was owned by Walter and his brothers-in-law Joseph DURFEE and Benjamin DURFEE, both of Freetown , MA. From The Shipbuilding Business, page 174, cited by Mrs. Helen Thomas of East Freetown, Bristol County, MA, in 1985.
When the U. S. 1800 census of Newport County, RI, was taken Joseph DURFEE's family was 1 male 10-16, 2 males 16-26, 1 male over 45, 3 females under 10, 2 females 10-16, 2 females 16-16, and 1 female over 45.
In her will dated April 23, 1801, and proved October 5, 1801, Patience (Borden) DURFEE, widow of Thomas, left " ... to eldest son Joseph DURFEE a History of England, a stone sledge and claims against the Government in the hands of Pardon Gray. To two sons Joseph DURFEE and Samuel DURFEE interest in a wharf at Newport, Newport County, RI. Her daughter Abigail DURFEE was executrix. Registry of Probate, Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Book 39, page 243.
When the U. S. 1810 census of Tiverton, Newport County, RI, was taken Colonel Joseph DURFEE's family was 1 male under 10, 2 males 16-26, 2 males over 45, 1 female under 10, 3 females 16-26, and 1 female over 45.
A Joseph DURFEE was Justice of the Peace in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, in May 1811, May 1812, and in 1817. From Smith's Civil and Military List of Rhode Island in Volume 2, pages 151, 155, and 251.
While residents of Tiverton in 1816, he and Elizabeth were among the organizers of the First Congregational Church of Fall River.
In January 1819, when he married Elizabeth Nichols, Joseph was a resident of Tiverton, Newport County, RI, and she was a resident of Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
When the U. S. 1830 census of Troy (Fall River), Bristol County, MA, was taken Joseph's family was 2 males 15-20, 1 male 80-90, 1 female 30-40, and 1 female 60-70.
In his will dated April 17, 1834, Joseph left " ... to wife Elizabeth house and land, to son Aaron a chair, table and clothing, to grandson John DURFEE Wilson a watch, desk, bed etc. All personal and real property to wife Elizabeth ... ". Taunton Wills Book 83, page 473. In a codicil dated January 25, 1841, Joseph names John Nichols to be executor, replacing his son Aaron.
When the U. S. 1840 census of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was taken Joseph's family was 1 male 5-10, 1 male 40-50, 1 male 90-100, 1 female 40-50, and 1 female 70-80. He was identified as a Revolutionary War pensioner and age 90.
Elizabeth ( ... ) (Nichols) DURFEE was granted a military pension based on the service of her first husband Eleazer Nichols.
When the U. S. 1850 census of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was taken Joseph was dead and Elizabeth DURFEE 85, born MA, was living in the house of Samuel and Clarissa S. White.
In her will dated March 3, 1852, and proved January 3, 1854, Elizabeth left " ... to son William Nichols $ 1.00, to grandson Eleazer Nichols $ 1.00, to daughter Chloe Hills wife of David Hills all other estate ... ". David Hills was executor. Taunton Wills Book 100, page 201.
According to Mrs. Helen Thomas of East Freetown, Bristol County, MA, in 1985, Joseph DURFEE and his widow Elizabeth (Nichols) DURFEE were both buried in the Nichols - Deane Cemetery on North Main St. in Assonet Village, Freetown, Bristol County, MA. She further stated that Joseph was buried near the entrance and his headstone was removed " ... a few years ago when there was vandalism and that he was born April 27, 1750, and died December 10, 1841 ... ". Elizabeth (Nichols) DURFEE's stone says that she died July 23, 18- -, age 89. According to Charles Benns' Rhode Island Cemetery Records Volume 6, page 85, Joseph and his first wife Elizabeth (Turner) DURFEE were both buried in the cemetery on the corner of Brightman St. in Fall River. Obviously one or the other must be wrong. According to an Abstract of Graves of Revolutionary Patriots on the internet at Ancestry.com, January 2000, Lt. Col. Joseph DURFEE was buried in North Cemetery in Fall River, Bristol County, MA.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 188 and 248.
Reed states that all of Joseph's children were born in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, but in all of his military records (1775-1785) he was of Freetown, Bristol County, MA. Apparently he lived in Tiverton, before the Revolution and moved back to Tiverton after the Revolution, staying there until about 1820, when he moved back to Freetown. It is probable that at least some of his children were born in Freetown.
Joseph married Elizabeth Turner-[99] [MRIN:27], daughter of John Turner-[178] and Patience Gardiner-[179], on 24 Sep 1772 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 3.
Surety:0
They had the following children:
19 F i. Charlotte Durfee-[102] 1 was born on 15 Jul 1773 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 9 Jul 1810 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:8256.
Charlotte's father was called Colonel Joseph DURFEE.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 248, 451, and 457.
Charlotte married someone about 1794 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
+ 20 M ii. Gardner Durfee-[88] 1 was born on 2 Apr 1775 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 7 and died in 1820 in Athens, Athens County, OH 8
21 M iii. George Washington Durfee-[1896] 1 was born on 27 Apr 1777 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died in 1824 in Belpre, Washington County, OH. User ID:1896.
Either the marriage date of George and Polly is wrong or the birth date of their son George is wrong.
When the U. S. 1820 census of Union Twp., Washington County, OH, was taken George W. Durphey's family was 2 males under 10, 2 males 10-16, 1 male 26-45, 2 females under 10, 1 female 10-16, 1 female 16-26, and 1 female 26-45. Two were engaged in agriculture. All of George's family moved to Ohio and several of his children later returned to New England.
Probate records pertaining to the estate of George W. DURFEE dated 1823, are in the Washington County (OH) Probate Records Book 2, page 540. From Ohio Wills and Estates to 1850 by Carol Bell.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 248 and 458.
George married someone on 13 Sep 1801 in Dartmouth, Bristol County, MA.
22 F iv. Phebe Rhobe Durfee-[10217] 1 was born on 23 Sep 1779 in Taunton, Bristol County, MA and died on 9 Apr 1866 in Fall River, Bristol County, MA. User ID:10217.
On page 248 Reed calls her Rhobe and on page 459 Phebe. Beriah was of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, at the time of their marriage.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 284 and 459.
Phebe married someone about 1802 in Taunton, Bristol County, MA.
23 F v. Susannah Durfee-[105] 1 was born on 9 Mar 1783 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 27 Dec 1865 in Fall River, Bristol County, MA. User ID:10219.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 284 and 462.
Susannah married someone on 24 Sep 1804 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
24 F vi. Mehitable Durfee-[106] 1 was born on 15 Jun 1785 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 4 Sep 1857 in Fall River, Bristol County, MA. User ID:10998.
According to the research notes of Mrs. Grace (Stafford) DURFEE of Tiverton, Newport County, RI, in the 1950s, Mehitable's second husband was Joshua C. Fuller and he was born July 17, 1782. Her notes are the source of all of the information on Mehitable's Fuller children.
When the U. S. 1810 census of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was taken Stephen's family was 3 males under 10, 1 male 26-45, 1 female under 10, and 1 female 26-45.
All of Stephen's children had a guardian appointed on May 3, 1813, on the occasion of Mehitable's second marriage. Tiverton Probate Book 6, page 574.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 284, 464 and 537.
Mehitable married someone in Apr 1802 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
Mehitable also married someone on 13 Mar 1813 in Fall River, Bristol County, MA.
25 F vii. Amelia Durfee-[107] 1 was born on 30 Jul 1787 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 2 Mar 1844 in Fall River, Bristol County, MA. User ID:9945.
Nathan was a mariner and the master of a vessel. He died on a voyage.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 284 and 467.
Amelia married someone before 1809 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
26 M viii. Aaron Durfee-[108] 1 was born on 17 Dec 1789 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 1 Aug 1861 in Red Bud, Randolph County, IL. User ID:10223.
Reed states that all of Aaron's children were born in MA, but in 1820 he was living in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, and the 1850 census says his first four children were born in RI.
When the U. S. 1820 census of Tiverton, Newport County, RI, was taken Aaron's family was was 2 males under 10, 1 male 26-45, 2 females under 10, and 1 female 26-45. One person was engaged in commerce.
When the U. S. 1830 census of Troy (Fall River), Bristol County, MA, was taken Aaron's family was 1 male under 5, 1 male 10-15, 1 male 40-50, 1 female under 5, 1 female 5-10, 2 females 10-15, 1 female 15-20, and 1 female 30-40.
Aaron was not listed on the 1840 census of IL. When the U. S. 1850 census of Randolph County, IL, was taken Aaron's family was Aaron 60, farmer, born RI, Ruth 59, born RI, Elvira (probably Almira) 30, born RI, Amelia 28, born RI, Ariadne 21, born MA, Adelaide 18, born MA, and Arabella 14, born MA. Also living with them was William Boggs 17, born IL.
In his will dated April 17, 1834, Joseph left " ... to wife Elizabeth house and land, to son Aaron a chair, table and clothing, to grandson John DURFEE Wilson a watch, desk, bed etc. All personal and real property to wife Elizabeth. Taunton Wills Book 83, page 473. In a codicil dated January 25, 1841, Joseph names John Nichols to be executor, replacing his son Aaron.
Aaron moved his family from Fall River, Bristol County, MA, to Monroe County,IL, in 1838, where he was a farmer until 1860, when he sold his farm and moved to Red Bud, IL, where he died in 1861.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 284 and 471.Research: >Birth note: Birth Surety:0
Aaron married someone about 1813 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
27 F ix. Elizabeth Betsey Durfee-[109] 1 was born on 9 Jan 1792 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 29 Dec 1814 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:10225.
She was a member of the United Congregational Church of Tiverton in 1806. May 1813, may not be the correct marriage date as in his book Middleboro, Plymouth County, MA, Vital Records Volume 8, page 120, Chester Weston says that their intentions to marry were published in Middleboro, Plymouth County, MA, June 20, 1813.
Elizabeth died in childbirth.
In his will dated April 17, 1834, Joseph left " ... to wife Elizabeth house and land, to son Aaron a chair, table and clothing, to grandson John DURFEE Wilson a watch, desk, bed etc. All personal and real property to wife Elizabeth. Taunton Wills Book 83, page 473. In a codicil dated January 25, 1841, Joseph names John Nichols to be executor, replacing his son Aaron.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 284 and 472.
Elizabeth married someone in May 1813 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
28 F x. Patience Durfee-[110] 1 was born on 5 Sep 1794 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 25 May 1877 in Swansea, Bristol County, MA. User ID:10227.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 284 and 472.
Patience married someone on 26 Apr 1814 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
29 F xi. Abigail Durfee-[111] 1 was born on 24 Feb 1799 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 29 Feb 1804 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:10229.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 284.
11. Thomas Durfee-[184] 1 (Thomas1) was born on 5 Nov 1721 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 4 and died on 19 Jul 1796 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA 4. User ID:45.Joseph also married __________ Elizabeth-[10215] [MRIN:812] on 29 Jan 1819 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
Inherited a large estate from father, and land from wife's father at F all River, Mass. Member of both House and Senate for Massachusetts. Di d not fight in Revolution.
Inherited a large estate from father, and land from wife's father at Fall River, Mass. Member of both House and Senate for Massachesetts. Did not fight in Revolution.
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Thomas DURFEE was born in Tiverton, Rhode Island, November 5, 1721, and became one of the magnates of his day, living in a manner commensurate with his wealth. The farm on which he lived and died he inherited from his father, it including all that part of the Fall River of the present day lying north of the line of Elm street and south of Turner street, extending from the shore to Watuppa Lake. He owned other large tracts, and on the death of his father-iii-lax, Joseph Borden, of Freetown, he came into possession of valuable water power. He enclosed a large park, in which he maintained a herd of deer, and at his home he entertained with generous and warm-hearted hospitality. Among his guests was General Lafayette, who upon his return to France acknowledged his entertainment by the Durfees by the gift of a pair of blooded French hounds. A high-minded, upright and intelligent man, he was called to high place in the public service, and during the Revolution he used a large portion of his estate to further the cause of independence. He represented Freetown (now Fall River) for many years in the Great Court and in the General Court; sat in the State Senate thirteen sessions by election; was a member of the governor's council six years, and judge of the Court of Sessions for Bristol county several years. He died at his home July 9, 1796. Thomas DURFEE married, August 9, 1747, Patience Borden, of Freetown, daughter of Joseph Borden, and they were the parents of a large family, including a son, Charles, of further mention.
A record of their marriage is found in Arnold's Rhode Island Vital Records Volume 4, page 23. They were married in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, by Justice of the Peace Samuel DURFEE and both were of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, at that time. Their banns were published in Freetown May 16, 1747.
The distribution of Benjamin's estate was recorded in the Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Registry of Probate in Book 16 Pages 44-45. It states that he was late of Newport, Newport County, RI, yeoman, deceased. The distribution was ordered May 6, 1755. His wife Prudence (Earle) DURFEE died in 1733. In his will Benjamin does not mention a wife so he probably did not marry a second time. The will read in part " ... to son Thomas 138 acres. To William DURFEE, grandson of Benjamin DURFEE 138 acres. To the heirs of Joseph Hicks (deceased), one of the grandsons, 220 acres. To James DURFEE, one of the grandsons, 70 acres. ... ".
Benjamin's will was written in 1753, and recorded February 6, 1754, in Newport, Newport County, RI, in the Newport Wills Book 7C X 1, page 200, in the Newport Historical Society. It reads in part " ... Benjamin DURFEE, of Newport, gentleman ... to son William all of my farm ... to son Benjamin 5 pounds, Rhode Island money, he already having land by deed of gift ... to son Richard both of the farms I bought of William Corey, being in Tiverton, and lying between the land of widow Bennett and Benjamin DURFEE Jr. ... to son Thomas the farm on which he now lives (138 acres), except the north half of the dwelling house which is reserved for daughters Susannah and Martha DURFEE so long as they remain single ... to three grandsons James DURFEE, Joseph Hicks, and William DURFEE, son of Samuel DURFEE ... to daughter Anna Browning 50 pounds in Rhode Island money ... to grandson DURFEE Hix 100 acres I had of John Easty ... to daughter Mercy DURFEE a lot in Tiverton ... to daughter Lusannah DURFEE 1000 pounds of Rhode Island money ... " .
Thomas DURFEE of Tiverton, was admitted a freeman of the Colony of Rhode Island in 1755. From Rhode Island Freemen 1747-1755. Page 23. Apparently Thomas lived in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, for only a short period after his marriage in 1747, to about 1755-1765, when he settled in Freetown. Reed is probably incorrect in stating that his children born after about 1760-1765, were born in Tiverton.
The farm referred to in Benjamin's will was located in what is now Fall River, Bristol County, MA, on the spot on which the " County house " stood in 1897, and bordered west on the Taunton River and east on North Watuppa pond. In the mid seventeen hundreds it was part of Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
In 1765, Thomas and Patience DURFEE of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, sold property in Newport, Newport County, RI, to Patience Turner. Newport, Newport County, RI, Deeds Book 8, page 4.
Beginning May 29, 1769, Thomas Durphey of Freetown was a representative to the Massachusetts Assembly. He was also selected again in May 1766, May 1767, and May 1768. From the Journals of the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts. Volume 42.
On May 24, 1774, Captain Thomas DURFEE of Freetown was its representative in the Massachusetts General Assembly. On December 7, 1774,Thomas DURFEE represented Freetown, as deputy, to the Provincial Congress in Boston, Suffolk County, MA. He was Freetown's representative again on February 1, 1775, and May 31, 1775. He served on committees that dealt with Troop movements, recruiting, pay, food, clothing, etc. From the Journals of the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts. Volume 50, page 248.
On January 9, 1788, a convention was held in Boston, Suffolk County, MA, to vote on the ratification of the new United States Constitution and the Honorable Thomas DURFEE Esquire, delegate of Freetown, voted to ratify.
He was long a member of the General Court of Mass, and in both the House and the Senate, and was for six years a member of the Governor's council, and as such was one of the honorable pall bearers at the funeral of Governor John Hancock, in 1793."
Although he had a physical handicap he was commissioned as a captain in one of the militia companies of Freetown, prior to May 1774, when as a representative to the Massachusetts Assembly he was called Captain DURFEE.
"He mortgaged his entire farm to raise funds to support the General Congress, and when he was paid by the Government, it was in Continental currency, which had become so depreciated it was of little value in comparison to the amount loaned.
"Remaining as honorable to the last as he had been patriotic at the first, he refused to pay off his mortgage with the currency he had received from the Government. He said: 'I received good and substantial money on this loan, and the farm itself shall go to restore it. The farm was therefore turned over to his creditor, and thus Thomas DURFEE became comparatively poor. ".
When the U. S. 1790 census of Freetown MA, was taken Thomas' family was 7 males over 16, 5 females and 3 other free people.
In his will dated July 1, 1796, Thomas stated that as of that date his age was 74 years, 6 months, and 26 days and left " ... to children, Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner, Abigail DURFEE, Benjamin DURFEE, Charles DURFEE, James DURFEE, Thomas DURFEE, Samuel DURFEE, and to two grandchildren, Abigail DURFEE and Lucretia DURFEE, children of son Nathan DURFEE $ 1.00 each. All property to wife Patience and she is to be Executrix ... ". Book 34, page 173 at the Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA.
Patience was not listed on the U. S. 1800 census of Freetown but most of her sons were and she probably was living with one of them.
In her will dated April 23, 1801, and proved October 5, 1801, Patience left " ... to eldest son Joseph DURFEE a History of England, a stone sledge and claims against the Government in the hands of Pardon Gray. To son Benjamin clothing and three American Gazetteers. To daughter Hope Chaloner 1/5 lot of land to compensate her for schooling two grandchildren of her son Nathan (deceased). To daughter Abigail DURFEE $ 1.00 and a U. S. note for $ 119.40, etc. To three daughters Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner and Abigail DURFEE wearing apparel. To son Charles DURFEE crosscut saw and a law book. To two granddaughters Abigail DURFEE and Lucretia DURFEE daughters of son Nathan bedding, silver buckles etc. To son James securities against him. To grandson Thomas DURFEE son of son James DURFEE silver knee buckles. To son Thomas bedding and trunk marked T. D. To son Samuel pair of gold sleeve buttons. To grandson Thomas Chaloner pair of silver shoe buckles, To granddaughter Nancy DURFEE daughter of son Charles DURFEE small bed. To two sons Joseph DURFEE and Samuel DURFEE interest in a wharf at Newport, Newport County, RI. To son Thomas lot of land, he to give sister Abigail DURFEE lease of house and lot as long as she remains unmarried. She recommends Robert Erwin, an Irishman, who has lived with her many years, to the gentle care and attention of her children ... ". Her daughter Abigail DURFEE was executrix. Registry of Probate, Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Book 39, page 243.
The Honorable Thomas DURFEE was buried in Oak Grove Cemetery in Fall River, Bristol County, MA. From an Abstract of Graves of Revolutionary Patriots on the internet at Ancestry.com. January 2000.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 29, and 188.
The Earle Family Genealogy. Pliney Earle. 1888. Pages 22-24, and 35.
Noted events in his life were:
1. Visit; Tiverton, Newport County, RI. Entertained General Lafayette
Thomas married Patience Borden-[101] [MRIN:54], daughter of Joseph Borden-[183] and Abigail Russell-[468], on 19 Aug 1796 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 4.
They had the following children:
30 F i. Hope Durfee-[1126] 1 was born on 29 Sep 1748 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died after 1801. User ID:1126.
Both were of Freetown at the time of their marriage. Walter's father was the High Sheriff of Newport County and a Loyalist (Tory). He also at one time was Warden and Vestryman of Trinity Church in Newport. During the revolution Walter Chaloner, Sr., went to St. Johns, New Brunswick with his entire family except for Walter, Jr. who remained behind and married Hope DURFEE. Walter, Jr. joined the American Army.
Walter Chaloner was the master of the sloop Swallow, 47 tons, built in 1786. It hailed from Freetown and was owned by Walter and his brothers-in-law Joseph and Benjamin DURFEE. From The Shipbuilding Business, page 174, cited by Mrs. Helen Thomas of East Freetown, Bristol County, MA, in 1985.
In his will dated July 1, 1796, Thomas stated that as of that date he was 74 years, 6 months, and 26 days of age and left " ... to children Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner, Abigail DURFEE, Benjamin DURFEE, Charles DURFEE, James DURFEE, Thomas DURFEE, Samuel DURFEE, and to two grandchildren, Abigail DURFEE and Lucretia DURFEE, children of son Nathan DURFEE $ 1.00 each. All property to wife Patience and she is to be Executrix ... ". Book 34, page 173 at the Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA.
In her will dated April 23, 1801, and proved October 5, 1801, Patience left " ... to daughter Hope Chaloner 1/5 lot of land to compensate her for schooling two grandchildren of her son Nathan (deceased). To three daughters Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner and Abigail DURFEE wearing apparel. To grandson Thomas Chaloner pair of silver shoe buckles. Her daughter Abigail DURFEE was executrix. Registry of Probate, Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Book 39, page 243.
In 1803, Walter was elected the first town clerk of Fall River, Bristol County, MA.
Walter Chaloner drowned at Bristol Ferry.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 188 and 245.
Hope married someone on 6 Feb 1777 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
+ 31 M ii. Charles Durfee-[185] 1 was born on 20 Nov 1761 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA and died on 8 Feb 1812 in Fall River, Bristol County, MA
32 M iii. Joseph Durfee-[98] 1 was born on 27 Apr 1750 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 3 and died on 10 Dec 1841 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA 3. User ID:1127.
Ebenezer Weaver Pierce of Assonet Village, Freetown, Mass., states in his sketches of Fall River and Freetown that "Col. DURFEE removed to Tiverton, R.I., and was elected to a seat in the General Assembly of that State, but spent his last years in and died at Assonet." While livi ng in Tiverton, in 1816, he and his wife, with others, organized the F irst Congressional Church of Fall River, Mass.
The Commissioner of Pensions, at Washington, D.C., in reply to a request, on August 23, 1895, gave from the records of his office a statement of the military service of Col. DURFEE as follows, viz :
"In the year 1775 he was commissioned as Captain, and raised a company of minute men, which company was stationed at Fall River, Mass., fo r about 15 months; he then took command of a company of about 60 men a nd marched to the State of New York, where he joined the regiment commanded by Col. Thomas Carpenter, and in a few days after his arrival wa s actively engaged in the battle of White Plains; remained in New York State until November, 1776, when he marched with his company to Tiverton, R.I., and joined the regiment commanded by Col. John Cook, which regiment he assisted in covering the retreat of the American troops from that island (probably the island of Rhode Island is meant). Late in the year 1776 he was commissioned as Major in the regiment commanded by Col. John Hathaway, and was stationed at Little Compton, R.I., for about six months; in February or March, 1778, was stationed as a Major with 20 men under his command at Fall River, Mass. In May of that year was engaged in a skirmish with the British troops at that place, and compelled them to retreat with the loss of several men killed and wounded. August, 1778, he joined Gen. Sullivan's expedition to Rhode Is land, and served as a Major in Col. Whitney's regiment about one month. From thence he went to Pawtucket and did duty as a Major until Decem ber, 1778, a period of about 3 months. In January of February, 1779, he received a Lieutenant-Colonel's commission, and with his regiment joined Gen. Cornell's brigade at Tiverton, R.I., where he continued to serve until the evacuation of the island by the British troops in October, 1779. From that time until he left the service, late in December, 1779, he was stationed at Newport."
Col. DURFEE's will, dated Fall River, Mass., April 17, 1834, is record ed on page 473, of book No. _", Probate records, at Taunton, Mass., and is in part shown as follows:
"Item.-To wife Elizabeth, house and land bought of Nichols.
"Item.-To son Aaron great arm chair and cushion and round mahogany table and wearing apparel.
"Item-To grandson John DURFEE Wilson watch, desk, high post bedstead a nd cord; one feather bed, one straw bed, two blankets, two sheets, one bolster, two pillows and pillow case and great Bible.
"Item.-All real and personal estate to wife Elizabeth."
A codicil changes executor from Aaron DURFEE, his son, to John Nichols , January 25, 1841.
This change of executor was no doubt made necessary from the fact tha this son Aaron, some years before, removed to the State of Illinois .
The will of Mrs. Elizabeth DURFEE, widow of Col. Joseph DURFEE, dated Freetown, Mass., March 3, 1854, at Taunton, Mass., and the following items are embraced in it.
"To son William Nichols $1.00. To grandson Eleazer Nichols $1.00. To daughter Chloe Hills wife of David Hills all other estate &c. Appoints son-in-law David Hills executor."
Mr. S.A. Chace, in an article on the Military History of Fall River previous to 1824, published in the Fall River "Evening News," March 24, 1897, mentions the period of the Revolutionary was as follows, viz :
"During the early part of the war which followed the Declaration of Independence, Tiverton and the part of Freetown now included in the city of Fall River was constantly harassed and distressed by the enemy, whose ships were often at Newport and farther up the Narragansett Bay .
"On a Sunday morning, the 25th of May 1778, about 150 British troops came up the bay in boats and landed at Fall River. They first set fire to the house of Thomas Borden, near the shore, and to his grist and saw-mills located near where the Metacomet mill is now standing. These buildings were entirely destroyed. The men of the place rallied under the command of Colonel, then Major, Joseph DURFEE, and after a brave and spirited resistance, repulsed the invaders and compelled them to retreat. They left two men killed, near what is now the junction of South Main and Pocasset streets. In their retreat they were closely pursued to the shore, and another man was killed after stepping on board one of the boats. In their retreat they also set fire to several houses, one of which was the house of Richard Borden, then an old man.
"These fires were all extinguished by the vigilance of their pursueers, but they did secure the old man as a prisoner and carried him off in one of their boats. As they approached Bristol Ferry, the Americans on shore began to fire on the boats, and Mr. Borden, with the grit and sagacity of his race, which has been so efficient in the development of this city, laid himself down in the bottom of the boat. To this his captors objected, and attempted to force him to sit up and take the same chances for being hit that they had. In this he would not aid them, and they attempted to stand him up by main force. During this operation two the the Englishmen who were holding him up were shot and fell overboard. Mr. Borden was soon after released on parole. The Englishmen who were killed in the engagement before the retreat were buried on the same day near the place where they fell, the head of one laid beside the feet of the other.
Joseph was the captain of a company of minute men stationed in Fall River in 1775. He later commanded a company of 60 men in Colonel Thomas Carpenter's Regiment which joined Washington in White Plains, NY, and fought in the battle there a few days after arriving. In November 1776, he returned to Rhode Island and served in Colonel Cook's regiment in the battle of Rhode Island. Late in the year 1776, he was commissioned Major in Colonel John Hathaway's Regiment and was stationed in Little Compton, Newport County, RI, for 6 months. On Sunday morning May 25 (or May 31),1778, a British force of about 150 soldiers landed at Fall River and began burning the houses of Thomas Borden and Richard Borden and several other buildings. Major Joseph DURFEE, who was stationed at Fall River, with a hastily gathered force of 20-25 men that included his brother Benjamin, successfully drove off the British, killing three and wounding several others in the process. The size of Joseph's force increased as more men, hearing the noise of the battle and seeing the smoke of the burning buildings, rushed to the scene. In August 1778, he went on the Sullivan Campaign in Rhode Island.
He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in January 1779, of Light Infantry in Colonel John Jacob's regiment, and then full Colonel in 1782. The record of Joseph's military service is from the National Archives Revolutionary Service Records # 4263 and 4264. Also from an article by S. A. Chase in the March 24, 1897, issue of the Fall River Evening News with the title the Military History of Fall River.
When the U. S. 1790 census of Tiverton, Newport County, RI, was taken Joseph's family was 2 males over 16, 3 males under 16, and 7 females.
Elizabeth's father was a physician. Reed states that they were married in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, but Mrs Helen Thomas of East Freetown, Bristol County, MA, in 1985, states that they were both of Freetown, and were married in Freetown, September 24, 1772. Elizabeth's death was noted in the May 28, 1817, issue of the Rhode Island Republican newspaper which stated that she was 64 at the time of death.
Walter Chaloner, of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was the master of the sloop Swallow, 47 tons, built in 1786. It hailed from Freetown and was owned by Walter and his brothers-in-law Joseph DURFEE and Benjamin DURFEE, both of Freetown , MA. From The Shipbuilding Business, page 174, cited by Mrs. Helen Thomas of East Freetown, Bristol County, MA, in 1985.
When the U. S. 1800 census of Newport County, RI, was taken Joseph DURFEE's family was 1 male 10-16, 2 males 16-26, 1 male over 45, 3 females under 10, 2 females 10-16, 2 females 16-16, and 1 female over 45.
In her will dated April 23, 1801, and proved October 5, 1801, Patience (Borden) DURFEE, widow of Thomas, left " ... to eldest son Joseph DURFEE a History of England, a stone sledge and claims against the Government in the hands of Pardon Gray. To two sons Joseph DURFEE and Samuel DURFEE interest in a wharf at Newport, Newport County, RI. Her daughter Abigail DURFEE was executrix. Registry of Probate, Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Book 39, page 243.
When the U. S. 1810 census of Tiverton, Newport County, RI, was taken Colonel Joseph DURFEE's family was 1 male under 10, 2 males 16-26, 2 males over 45, 1 female under 10, 3 females 16-26, and 1 female over 45.
A Joseph DURFEE was Justice of the Peace in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, in May 1811, May 1812, and in 1817. From Smith's Civil and Military List of Rhode Island in Volume 2, pages 151, 155, and 251.
While residents of Tiverton in 1816, he and Elizabeth were among the organizers of the First Congregational Church of Fall River.
In January 1819, when he married Elizabeth Nichols, Joseph was a resident of Tiverton, Newport County, RI, and she was a resident of Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
When the U. S. 1830 census of Troy (Fall River), Bristol County, MA, was taken Joseph's family was 2 males 15-20, 1 male 80-90, 1 female 30-40, and 1 female 60-70.
In his will dated April 17, 1834, Joseph left " ... to wife Elizabeth house and land, to son Aaron a chair, table and clothing, to grandson John DURFEE Wilson a watch, desk, bed etc. All personal and real property to wife Elizabeth ... ". Taunton Wills Book 83, page 473. In a codicil dated January 25, 1841, Joseph names John Nichols to be executor, replacing his son Aaron.
When the U. S. 1840 census of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was taken Joseph's family was 1 male 5-10, 1 male 40-50, 1 male 90-100, 1 female 40-50, and 1 female 70-80. He was identified as a Revolutionary War pensioner and age 90.
Elizabeth ( ... ) (Nichols) DURFEE was granted a military pension based on the service of her first husband Eleazer Nichols.
When the U. S. 1850 census of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was taken Joseph was dead and Elizabeth DURFEE 85, born MA, was living in the house of Samuel and Clarissa S. White.
In her will dated March 3, 1852, and proved January 3, 1854, Elizabeth left " ... to son William Nichols $ 1.00, to grandson Eleazer Nichols $ 1.00, to daughter Chloe Hills wife of David Hills all other estate ... ". David Hills was executor. Taunton Wills Book 100, page 201.
According to Mrs. Helen Thomas of East Freetown, Bristol County, MA, in 1985, Joseph DURFEE and his widow Elizabeth (Nichols) DURFEE were both buried in the Nichols - Deane Cemetery on North Main St. in Assonet Village, Freetown, Bristol County, MA. She further stated that Joseph was buried near the entrance and his headstone was removed " ... a few years ago when there was vandalism and that he was born April 27, 1750, and died December 10, 1841 ... ". Elizabeth (Nichols) DURFEE's stone says that she died July 23, 18- -, age 89. According to Charles Benns' Rhode Island Cemetery Records Volume 6, page 85, Joseph and his first wife Elizabeth (Turner) DURFEE were both buried in the cemetery on the corner of Brightman St. in Fall River. Obviously one or the other must be wrong. According to an Abstract of Graves of Revolutionary Patriots on the internet at Ancestry.com, January 2000, Lt. Col. Joseph DURFEE was buried in North Cemetery in Fall River, Bristol County, MA.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 188 and 248.
Reed states that all of Joseph's children were born in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, but in all of his military records (1775-1785) he was of Freetown, Bristol County, MA. Apparently he lived in Tiverton, before the Revolution and moved back to Tiverton after the Revolution, staying there until about 1820, when he moved back to Freetown. It is probable that at least some of his children were born in Freetown.
Joseph married Elizabeth Turner-[99] [MRIN:27], daughter of John Turner-[178] and Patience Gardiner-[179], on 24 Sep 1772 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 3.
Joseph also married __________ Elizabeth-[10215] [MRIN:812] on 29 Jan 1819 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
33 M iv. Nathan Durfee-[1128] 1 was born on 5 Apr 1752 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died in 1755 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:1128.
Died when three years old.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 188.
Nathan married someone on 28 Nov 1792 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
34 M v. Benjamin Durfee-[871] 1 was born in May 1754 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 9 and died on 4 Jun 1840 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA 9. User ID:123.
Benjamin enlisted as a private in Captain Joseph DURFEE's company in Colonel Pope's Regiment. He served from December 7, 1776 to December 23, 1776. The company marched to Rhode Island on alarm. He served in Captain Henry Brightman's company in Colonel John Cook's regiment, from August 3, 1780, to August 7, 1780. His pension was based on 9 months of active service so he must have served on many other occasions. In his pension application he said that he went on the Sullivan expedition, he fought in the Battle of Rhode Island, and he served under his brother Joseph in the defense of Fall River. Benjamin was selectman of Freetown from 1785, to 1792, and in 1795, and 1796. He was Assessor from 1784, to 1792, and in 1796, and from 1799, to 1800. He was also selectman of Fall River 1803-1804.
Walter Chaloner was the master of the sloop Swallow, 47 tons, built in 1786. It hailed from Freetown and was owned by Walter and his brothers-in-law Joseph DURFEE and Benjamin DURFEE. From The Shipbuilding Business, page 174, cited by Mrs. Helen Thomas of East Freetown, Bristol County, MA, in 1985.
When the U. S. 1790 census of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was taken Benjamin's family was 2 males over 16, 1 male under 16, and 7 females.
In his will dated July 1, 1796, Thomas stated that as of that date he was 74 years, 6 months, and 26 days of age and left " ... to children, Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner, Abigail DURFEE, Benjamin DURFEE, Charles DURFEE, James DURFEE, Thomas DURFEE, Samuel DURFEE, and to two grandchildren, Abigail DURFEE and Lucretia DURFEE, children of son Nathan DURFEE $ 1.00 each. All property to wife Patience and she is to be Executrix ... ". Book 34, page 173 at the Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA.
When the U. S. 1800 census of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was taken Benjamin's family was 2 males under 10, 1 male 10-16, 1 male 26-45, 1 male over 45, 1 female 10-16, 2 females 16-26, and 1 female 26-45.
In her will dated April 23, 1801, and proved October 5, 1801, Patience left " ... to son Benjamin clothing and three American Gazetteers. Her daughter Abigail DURFEE was executrix. Registry of Probate, Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Book 39, page 243.
When the U. S. 1810 census of Troy (Fall River), Bristol County, MA, was taken Benjamin's family was 1 male 10-16, 1 male 16-26, 1 male over 45, 1 female 10-16, 2 females 16-26, and 1 female over 45.
When the U. S. 1820 census of Troy (Fall River), Bristol County, MA, was taken Benjamin's family was 1 male over 45, and 1 female 26-45.
Benjamin was not listed on the 1830, or the 1840 censuses in Freetown or Fall River, and was probably living with one of his children.
On August 30, 1832, Benjamin DURFEE, 78, of Bristol County, MA, applied for a military pension based on his service in the Revolutionary War. His pension was based on 9 months active service.
On July 10, 1896, William DURFEE of Providence, Providence County, RI, received a reply to his inquiry to the National Archives concerning the Revolutionary War service of Benjamin DURFEE who enlisted at Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 188 and 256.
Soldiers and Sailors of the Revolutionary War. Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Compiler. Boston. Seventeen Volumes. 1896-1908. Volume 5, page 84.
Benjamin married someone on 31 Mar 1774 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 9.
35 F vi. Prudence Durfee-[1129] 1 was born on 26 Jul 1756 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 20 Aug 1803 in Prob. Newport, Newport County, RI. User ID:1129.
Captain Joseph Gardner was of Newport, Newport County, RI, at the time of their marriage and Prudence was of Freetown. He was probably a mariner.
In his will dated July 1, 1796, Thomas stated that as of that date he was 74 years, 6 months, and 26 days of age and left " ... to children, Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner, Abigail DURFEE, Benjamin DURFEE, Charles DURFEE, James DURFEE, Thomas DURFEE, Samuel DURFEE, and to two grandchildren, Abigail DURFEE and Lucretia DURFEE, children of son Nathan DURFEE $ 1.00 each. All property to wife Patience and she is to be Executrix ... ". Book 34, page 173 at the Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA.
Joseph Gardner left a will in which he mentioned the four sons listed.
In her will dated April 23, 1801, and proved October 5, 1801, Patience left " ... to three daughters Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner and Abigail DURFEE wearing apparel. ... ". Her daughter Abigail DURFEE was executrix. Registry of Probate, Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Book 39, page 243.
Prudence was buried in the Common Burial Ground in Newport, Newport County, RI. From Beaman's Rhode Island Vital Records New Series. Volume 10, page 142.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 188 and 257.
The Gardiners of Narragansett. Caroline E. Robinson. Providence, Providence County, RI. MDCCCCXIX. Pages 25 and 67.
Prudence married someone on 3 Feb 1783 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
36 F vii. Abigail Durfee-[1130] 1 was born in Aug 1759 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI Or Freetown, Bristol County, MA and died in 1833 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA. User ID:1130.
Abigail never married.
In his will dated July 1, 1796, Thomas stated that as of that date he was 74 years, 6 months, and 26 days of age and left " ... to children, Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner, Abigail DURFEE, Benjamin DURFEE, Charles DURFEE, James DURFEE, Thomas DURFEE, Samuel DURFEE, and to two grandchildren, Abigail DURFEE and Lucretia DURFEE, children of son Nathan DURFEE $ 1.00 each. All property to wife Patience and she is to be Executrix ... ". Book 34, page 173 at the Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA.
In her will dated April 23, 1801, and proved October 5, 1801, Patience left " ... to daughter Abigail DURFEE $ 1.00 and a U. S. note for $ 119.40, etc. To three daughters Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner and Abigail DURFEE wearing apparel. To son Thomas lot of land, he to give sister Abigail DURFEE lease of house and lot as long as she remains unmarried ". Her daughter Abigail DURFEE was executrix. Registry of Probate, Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Book 39, page 243.
When the U. S. 1810 census of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was taken Abigail's household was 1 male 26-45, 1 male over 45, 1 female 16-26, and 1 female over 45. In the next house on one side was her brother Charles DURFEE and on the other side her brother Benjamin DURFEE.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 188.
37 F viii. Susannah Durfee-[1132] 1 was born in Nov 1764 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA and died before 1796 in MA. User ID:1132.
Parker and Susannah had no children. Neither Susannah (DURFEE) Borden nor any grandchildren by her are mentioned in Thomas' will dated July 1796.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 188 and 258.
Susannah married someone on 22 Nov 1792 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
38 M ix. James Durfee-[1134] 1 was born on 25 Mar 1768 in Prob. Freetown, Bristol County, MA and died on 15 Mar 1850 in New Bedford, Bristol County, MA. User ID:1134.
James was a blacksmith and farmer.
When the U. S. 1790 census of North Providence, Providence County, RI, was taken James DURFEE's family was 1 male over 16, and 2 females.
James and Sally DURFEE, of North Providence, Providence County, RI, purchased land in Smithfield, RI, on October 22, 1794, and sold the same land September 18, 1797.
In his will dated July 1, 1796, Thomas stated that as of that date he was 74 years, 6 months, and 26 days of age and left " ... to children, Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner, Abigail DURFEE, Benjamin DURFEE, Charles DURFEE, James DURFEE, Thomas DURFEE, Samuel DURFEE, and to two grandchildren, Abigail DURFEE and Lucretia DURFEE, children of son Nathan DURFEE $ 1.00 each. All property to wife Patience and she is to be Executrix ... ". Book 34, page 173 at the Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA.
James moved his family from North Providence, Providence County, RI, to New Bedford, Bristol County, MA, about 1798.
When the U. S. 1800 census of New Bedford, Bristol County, MA, was taken James' family was 2 males under 10, 1 male 16-26, 1 male 26-45, 4 females under 10, and 1 female 26-45.
In her will dated April 23, 1801, and proved October 5, 1801, Patience left " ... to son James securities against him. To grandson Thomas DURFEE son of son James DURFEE silver knee buckles ... ". Her daughter Abigail DURFEE was executrix. Registry of Probate, Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Book 39, page 243.
When the U. S. 1810 census of New Bedford, Bristol County, MA, was taken James' family was 2 males under 10, 1 male 10-16, 1 male 16-26, 1 male over 45, 2 females under 10, 1 female 10-16, 2 females 16-26, and 1 female over 45. He also had 11 slaves.
When the U. S. 1820 census of New Bedford, Bristol County, MA, was taken James' family was 1 male 10-16, 1 male 16-26, 1 male over 45, 2 females 10-16, 1 female 16-26, and 1 female 26-45. Two of this household were engaged in commerce. No slaves were listed. Living very near him was his son Thomas.
When the U. S. 1830 census of New Bedford, Bristol County, MA, was taken James' family was 1 male 20-30, 1 male 60-70, 1 female 5-10, 1 female 30-40, and 1 female 60-70.
When the U. S. 1840 census of New Bedford, Bristol County, MA, was taken James' family was 1 male 10-15, 1 male 70-80, and 1 female 70-80. Living nearby were his sons James, Thomas and Nathan.
Sally's death is from the published Massachusetts Vital Records, New Bedford, Cemetery Records.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 188 and 259.
James married someone on 10 Jun 1789.
39 M x. Thomas Durfee-[984] 1 was born on 22 Jan 1771 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA and died on 2 Jan 1849 in Prob. Freetown, Bristol County, MA. User ID:984.
On November 21, 1793, a Thomas DURFEE married Nancy Allen at Trinity Church in Newport, Newport County, RI. The Thomas who married Nancy may or may not be this Thomas.
In his will dated July 1, 1796, Thomas DURFEE, Sr., stated that as of that date he was 74 years, 6 months, and 26 days of age and left " ... to children, Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner, Abigail DURFEE, Benjamin DURFEE, Charles DURFEE, James DURFEE, Thomas DURFEE, Samuel DURFEE, and to two grandchildren, Abigail DURFEE and Lucretia DURFEE, children of son Nathan DURFEE $ 1.00 each. All property to wife Patience and she is to be Executrix ... ". Book 34, page 173 at the Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA.
When the U. S. 1800 census of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was taken Thomas's family was 1 male 26-45, 1 female under 10, and 1 female 26-45.
In her will dated April 23, 1801, and proved October 5, 1801, Patience left " ... to son Thomas bedding and trunk marked T. D. To son Thomas lot of land, he to give sister Abigail DURFEE lease of house and lot as long as she remains unmarried. ... ". Her daughter Abigail DURFEE was executrix. Registry of Probate, Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Book 39, page 243.
On June 2, 1801, Thomas DURFEE, yeoman, of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was appointed guardian of Benjamin DURFEE 2nd. Recorded in the Massachusetts Registry of Probate in Taunton in Book 149 page 384. It is not known who Benjamin was. It would be wrong to assume that his father was Benjamin as during this period of history when two men with the same name lived in the same town, even though not father and son, the younger would be called Junior or the second.
When the U. S. 1810 census of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was taken Thomas' family was 1 male under 10, 1 male 26-45, 1 female 10-16, and 1 female 26-45.
Reed states that Thomas had no issue but on several censuses there are children shown.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 188.
40 M xi. Samuel Durfee-[1135] 1 was born on 5 Aug 1773 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA and died on 17 Jul 1845 in Providence, Providence County, RI. User ID:1135.
At the time of their marriage Hannah was of Newport, Newport County, RI, and Samuel was of New Bedford, Bristol County, MA. Samuel was a carpenter. Reed states, incorrectly that the marriage was in 1789, bur Arnold's Rhode Island Vital Records Volume 12, and the Newport Mercury newspaper issue of May 22, 1798, both give the marriage year as 1798. They were married in Trinity Church by the Reverend John Usher, of Bristol, Bristol County, RI. Hannah's family were Quakers.
In his will dated July 1, 1796, Thomas stated that as of that date he was 74 years, 6 months, and 26 days of age and left " ... to children, Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner, Abigail DURFEE, Benjamin DURFEE, Charles DURFEE, James DURFEE, Thomas DURFEE, Samuel DURFEE, and to two grandchildren, Abigail DURFEE and Lucretia DURFEE, children of son Nathan DURFEE $ 1.00 each. All property to wife Patience and she is to be Executrix ... ". Book 34, page 173 at the Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA.
When the U. S. 1800 census of Newport County, RI, was taken Samuel's family was 1 male 26-45, 1 female under 10, and 1 female 16-26.
In her will dated April 23, 1801, and proved October 5, 1801, Patience left " ... to son Samuel pair of gold sleeve buttons. To two sons Joseph DURFEE and Samuel DURFEE interest in a wharf at Newport, Newport County, RI. ... ". Her daughter Abigail DURFEE was executrix. Registry of Probate, Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Book 39, page 243.
In 1801, Elisha Anthony, merchant, of Newport, sold property in Newport to Samuel DURFEE, of Newport, Newport County, RI. Newport Deeds Book 8, page 348.
Hannah (Anthony) DURFEE was mentioned in the will of her father Elisha Anthony, of Newport. The will was written January 10, 1807, and proved May 4, 1807. Newport Wills Book 4, pages 384-385.
When the U. S. 1810 census of Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, was taken Samuel's family was 4 males under 10, 1 male 26-45, 1 female under 10, 1 female 16-26, and 1 female 26-45.
When the U. S. 1820 census of Providence, Providence County, RI, was taken Samuel's family was 1 male under 10, 3 males 10-16, 1 male 16-18, 1 male 16-26, 1 male over 45, 2 females 10-16, and 2 females 26-45. One person was engaged in manufacture.
When the U. S. 1830 census of Providence, Providence County, RI, was taken Samuel's family was 2 males 10-15, 1 male 15-20, 4 males 20-30, 1 male 50-60, 1 female 10-15, 1 female 15-20, 1 female 20-30, and 1 female 50-60.
When the U. S. 1840 census of Providence, Providence County, RI, was taken Samuel's family was 2 males 30-40, 1 male 60-70, 1 female 20-30, and 1 female 60-70. His son Samuel was living in the next house.
When the U. S. 1850 census of Providence, Providence County, RI, was taken Samuel was dead and Hannah A. 75, born RI, was living with her son Elisha A. 47, mason, born RI, and her unmarried daughter Martha A. 37, born RI. They also had 3 boarders. Living in adjacent houses were Samuel Jr. and Frederick.
A record of his death is in Rhode Island Death Records, a database on the internet at Ancestry.com, April 2000. Hannah's death is also found in Rhode Island Death Records, a database on the internet at Ancestry.com, April 2000.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 188 and 259.
Samuel married someone on 13 May 1798 in Newport, Newport County, RI.
In a letter from Mrs. Helen Thomas of East Freetown, Bristol County, MA, she states that the death of Prudence DURFEE, wife of Benjamin DURFEE, was recorded in Freetown, Bristol County, MA, as March 12, 1732/33, and she assumes that she died there. The Earle Genealogy gives her death place as Westport, Bristol County, MA, and Reed says Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executrix and left " ... To youngest son, Benjamin, 50 acres in Tiverton. ... ". In 1709 his father gave him land in what is now Fall River, Bristol County, MA, that he had purchased from William Manchester in 1681. Benjamin left this land to his son Captain William DURFEE who in turn, in 1766, left the south half of this land to his nephew Richard DURFEE, son of his brother Richard DURFEE and to James DURFEE, son of his brother Benjamin. The north half he left to another relative William Borden.
In the will of William Earle dated 1713, and recorded in the Portsmouth, Newport County, RI, Wills Book 2, page 206, November 13, 1713, he mentions his sons and daughters including Prudence DURFEE to whom he left, among other things, a Negro girl.
Benjamin's will was written in 1753, and recorded February 6, 1754, in Newport, Newport County, RI, in the Newport Wills Book 7C X 1(11A), page 200, in the Newport Historical Society. It reads in part " ... Benjamin DURFEE, of Newport, gentleman ... to son William all of my farm ... to son Benjamin 5 pounds, Rhode Island money, he already having land by deed of gift ... to son Richard both of the farms I bought of William Corey, being in Tiverton, and lying between the land of widow Bennett and Benjamin DURFEE Jr. ... to son Thomas the farm on which he now lives, except the north half of the dwelling house which is reserved for daughters Susannah and Martha DURFEE so long as they remain single ... to three grandsons James DURFEE, Joseph Hicks, and William DURFEE, son of Samuel DURFEE ... to daughter Anna Browning 50 pounds in Rhode Island money ... to grandson DURFEE Hix 100 acres I had of John Easty ... to daughter Mercy DURFEE a lot in Tiverton ... to daughter Lusannah DURFEE 1000 pounds of Rhode Island money ... "
An account of the distribution of Benjamin's estate was recorded in the Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Registry of Probate in Book 16 Pages 44-45. It states that he was late of Newport, Newport County, RI, yeoman, deceased. The distribution was ordered May 6, 1755. His wife Prudence (Earle) DURFEE died in 1733. In his will Benjamin does not mention a wife so he probably did not marry a second time. The distribution document read in part " ... to son Thomas 138 acres. To William DURFEE, grandson of Benjamin DURFEE 138 acres. To the heirs of Joseph Hicks (deceased), one of the grandsons, 220 acres. To James DURFEE, one of the grandsons, 70 acres. ... ".
Reed states that Benjamin died in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, but his probate record states that he was late of Newport. The Earle Genealogy gives Benjamin's birth year as 1680.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 18 and 29.
The Earle Family Genealogy. Pliney Earle. 1888. Pages 22-24, and 35.
Benjamin married Prudence Earle-[1286] [MRIN:818], daughter of William Earle-[757] and Prudence Hall-[758], in 1699 in Portsmouth, Newport County, RI 6.
They had the following children:
41 M i. James Durfee-[759] 1 was born on 28 Aug 1701 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died in 1729 in Prob. Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:164.
Reed says he had no issue.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 29.
The Earle Family Genealogy. Pliney Earle. 1888. Pages 22-24, and 35.
42 F ii. Anna Ann Durfee-[1655] 1 was born on 17 Jan 1703 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 22 Aug 1752 in Dartmouth, Bristol County, MA. User ID:1655.
The Earle Genealogy gives Anna's date of birth as June 11, 1703.
May 5, 1725 is the date of their banns rather than the marriage date. One record says that Thomas Cory's mother was Sarah Taber.
On February 19, 1734, Thomas Cory, a minor, of Dartmouth, over 14 years of age chose as his guardian William Hix of Dartmouth. Taunton Registry of Probate Book 9, pages 351-352.
On March 21, 1738, the will of Thomas Cory, Sr. was recorded in Dartmouth, Bristol County, MA. In it he left " ... to grandson Thomas Cory, son of Thomas, of Dartmouth 200 acres and homestead where my son Thomas lived in Dartmouth ... ".
Benjamin's will was written in 1753, and recorded February 6, 1754, in Newport, Newport County, RI, in the Newport Wills Book 7C X 1 (11A), page 200, in the Newport Historical Society. It reads in part " ... Benjamin DURFEE, of Newport, gentleman ... to three grandsons James DURFEE, Joseph Hicks, and William DURFEE, son of Samuel DURFEE ... to daughter Anna Browning 50 pounds in Rhode Island money ... to grandson DURFEE Hix 100 acres I had of John Easty ... ".
The distribution of Benjamin's estate was recorded in the Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Registry of Probate in Book 16 Pages 44-45. It states that he was late of Newport, Newport County, RI, yeoman, deceased. The distribution was ordered May 6, 1755. The distribution document read in part " ... To the heirs of Joseph Hicks (deceased), one of the grandsons, 220 acres ... " .
In his will Benjamin refers to his daughter Anna as Anna Browning. She must have married a third time.
The information on the spouses of Anna's children is from Wilbour's Little Compton, Rhode Island, Families, page 340.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 29 and 185.
The Earle Family Genealogy. Pliney Earle. 1888. Pages 22-24, and 35.
Anna married someone on 5 May 1725 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
Anna also married someone on 14 Jan 1729 in Dartmouth, Bristol County, MA.
Anna also married someone before 1753.
43 F iii. Hope Durfee-[1121] 1 was born on 7 Jan 1705 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 5 Apr 1734 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA. User ID:1121.
Jonathan Read was a resident of Freetown (Troy) at the time of their marriage.
The date March 28, 1729/30, is the date of their banns rather than the marriage date. In the Earle Genealogy she is called Pope DURFEE. Reed assumes that they had no children.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 29, and 187.
The Earle Family Genealogy. Pliney Earle. 1888. Pages 22-24, and 35.
Hope married someone on 28 Mar 1730 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
44 M iv. William Durfee-[760] 1 was born on 7 Dec 1707 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 26 Mar 1766 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:167.
Reed states that William never married. His reason was probably because William left his entire estate to his brothers and nephews. There was no mention in his will of a wife or children. He is the only William DURFEE of the correct age to be the William DURFEE who married Sarah Lake. She probably died or they were divorced before he wrote his will.
The Earle Genealogy give his birth as December 5, 1707.
William was a mariner and his father called him captain so he must have been the master of a ship.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executrix and left " ... to youngest son, Benjamin, 50 acres in Tiverton. ... ". In 1709, his father gave him land in what is now Fall River, Bristol County, MA, that he had purchased from William Manchester in 1681. Benjamin left this land to his son Captain William DURFEE who in turn, in 1766, left the south half of this land to his nephew Richard DURFEE, son of his brother Richard DURFEE and to James DURFEE, son of his brother Benjamin. The north half he left to another relative William Borden.
On October 23, 1752, William DURFEE, yeoman, of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, purchased a lot of land in Newport, Newport County, RI, from Peleg Sherman. The deed was recorded in Newport Land Evidence Book XV11, page 286.
Benjamin's will was written in 1753, and recorded February 6, 1754, in Newport, Newport County, RI, in the Newport Wills Book 7C X 1, page 200, in the Newport Historical Society. It reads in part " ... Benjamin DURFEE, of Newport, gentleman ... to son William all of my farm ... to son Benjamin 5 pounds, Rhode Island money, he already having land by deed of gift ... to son Richard both of the farms I bought of William Corey, being in Tiverton, and lying between the land of widow Bennett and Benjamin DURFEE Jr. ... to son Thomas the farm on which he now lives, except the north half of the dwelling house which is reserved for daughters Susannah and Martha DURFEE so long as they remain single ... to three grandsons James DURFEE, Joseph Hicks, and William DURFEE, son of Samuel DURFEE ... to daughter Anna Browning 50 pounds in Rhode Island money ... to grandson DURFEE Hix 100 acres I had of John Easty ... to daughter Mercy DURFEE a lot in Tiverton ... to daughter Lusannah DURFEE 1000 pounds of Rhode Island money ... " .
On February 18, 1757, William purchased land in Freetown, Bristol County, MA, from James and Rebecca (Brayton) Lake. Could they have been Sarah Lake's parents? Taunton Registry of Deeds Book 42, page 190.
On January 24, 1766, William wrote his will which was recorded in the Tiverton, Newport County, RI, Wills Book 2, pages 353-354. In it he mentions his brothers Benjamin DURFEE and Richard DURFEE, and his sisters Martha DURFEE and Susannah Wright. He also mentions his nephews James, son of Benjamin and Richard, son of Richard.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 29.
The Earle Family Genealogy. Pliney Earle. 1888. Pages 22-24, and 35.
William married someone on 21 May 1725 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
45 M v. Benjamin Durfee-[3285] 1 was born on 5 Jan 1709 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 23 Mar 1793 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:3285.
The record in the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, says that Benjamin and Amy were married March 12, 1734. Film # 1993524.
According to the book, Rhode Island Freemen, page 22, Benjamin was admitted a freeman of the Colony of Rhode Island from 1747 -1755.
Benjamin was selected one of the Justices of the Peace in Tiverton in May 1753. From the Civil and Military List of Rhode Island, Volume 1, page 163, by Joseph Smith. 1907.
In her will proved October 4, 1762, Hope Almy, widow of William Almy, son of Christopher Almy, left "....to Amey (Borden) DURFEE, wife of Benjamin DURFEE and Peace Borden, wife of Samuel, my best doctor book". Amey's death had to be after Hope Almy wrote her will.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executrix and left " ... To youngest son, Benjamin, 50 acres in Tiverton. ... ". In 1709 his father gave him land in what is now Fall River, Bristol County, MA, that he had purchased from William Manchester in 1681. Benjamin left this land to his son Captain William who in turn, in 1766, left the south half of this land to his nephew Richard DURFEE, son of his brother Richard DURFEE and to James DURFEE, son of his brother Benjamin. The north half he left to another relative William Borden.
Benjamin was listed on the Rhode Island 1777 Military census in Tiverton and was over 60 years of age.
Benjamin DURFEE's second wife, Mary Angell, was a resident of South Scituate, Providence County, RI.
Reed, incorrectly, gives March 23, 1793, as Benjamin's death date. This was the issue date of the Providence Gazette that published his obituary. He died before March 11, 1793, as his will was recorded on that date. Reed, also incorrectly gives the date of Benjamin's first marriage as February 23, 1733/34, but according to Mrs. Helen Thomas of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, that was the date their banns were published and the marriage date was March 12, 1733/34. A record of the marriage of Benjamin and Amy is in the Descendants of William Chase in the January 1933 issue of the New England Historical and Genealogical Register, page 54. Job DURFEE married Amy's sister Elizabeth.
Benjamin's will was written in 1753, and recorded February 6, 1754, in Newport, Newport County, RI, in the Newport Wills Book 7C X 1, page 200, in the Newport Historical Society. It reads in part " ... Benjamin DURFEE, of Newport, gentleman ... to son William all of my farm ... to son Benjamin 5 pounds, Rhode Island money, he already having land by deed of gift ... to son Richard both of the farms I bought of William Corey, being in Tiverton, and lying between the land of widow Bennett and Benjamin DURFEE Jr. ... to son Thomas the farm on which he now lives, except the north half of the dwelling house which is reserved for daughters Susannah and Martha DURFEE so long as they remain single ... to three grandsons James DURFEE, Joseph Hicks, and William DURFEE, son of Samuel DURFEE ... to daughter Anna Browning 50 pounds in Rhode Island money ... to grandson DURFEE Hix 100 acres I had of John Easty ... to daughter Mercy DURFEE a lot in Tiverton ... to daughter Lusannah DURFEE 1000 pounds of Rhode Island money ... "
"Captain Benjamin DURFEE, Jr.'s family in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, has been manufacturing linen and woolen cloth for the past 15 years". From a Newport, Newport County, RI, newspaper notice dated February 3, 1766. Genealogical Data from Colonial New Haven Newspapers. Kenneth Scott and Rosanne Conway, Compilers. Genealogical Publishing Co., Inc. Baltimore. 1979. Page 172.
On January 24, 1766, William wrote his will which was recorded in the Tiverton, Newport County, RI, Wills Book 2, pages 353-354. In it he mentions his brothers Benjamin DURFEE, Richard DURFEE, his sisters Martha DURFEE and Susannah Wright. He also mentions his nephews James, son of Benjamin and Richard, son of Richard.
Benjamin's will was recorded March 11, 1793, in the Tiverton, Newport County, RI, Wills Book 5, pages 87 and 161. In Wills Book 5, page 13 on August 2, 1793, Thomas DURFEE was appointed administrator of his father's estate and replaced his brother James.
Information on Christopher Almy and his son William is from Genealogies of Rhode Island. Genealogy Publishing Company. 1983. Baltimore. Volume 1, page 310.
According to Reed, Benjamin's farm was in North Tiverton and was the second farm below Globe Village and in 1872 it was owned by a Mr. Dodge, of New York and that the monuments had been removed from the family burying ground. Reed cites as his source the Angell Genealogy. Avery F. Angell. 1872. Pages 25 and 26.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 29, and 187.
The Earle Family Genealogy. Pliney Earle. 1888. Pages 22-24, and 35.
The Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode Island. John Osborne Austin. Albany. 1887. Pages 68-69 and 236-237.
Benjamin married someone on 23 Feb 1734 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
Benjamin also married someone after 1762 in Rhode Island.
46 F vi. Mercy Durfee-[1124] 1 was born on 30 Jan 1711 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died before 1780 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:1124.
In the Earle genealogy she was called Mary. Both were of Tiverton, Newport County, RI, at the time of their marriage.
Reed gives their marriage date as February 10, 1732/33, as does Arnold in Volume 4, of Rhode Island Vital Records, but Mrs. Helen Thomas of East Freetown, Bristol County, MA, in 1985, states that the marriage was February 17, 1732/33, and that February 10 was the date of their intentions to marry (banns). They were married by Job Almy Esq.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 29, and 132.
The Earle Family Genealogy. Pliney Earle. 1888. Pages 22-24, and 35.Noted events in her life were:
1. Alt. Birth; 30 Jan 1711.
Mercy married someone on 17 Feb 1732 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
47 F vii. Susannah Durfee-[1125] 1 was born on 28 Jan 1713 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died after 1766 in Prob. Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:1125.
Reed calls her Lusannah but in most records she is Susannah. She was still single when her father wrote his will in 1753.
Benjamin's will was written in 1753, and recorded February 6, 1754, in Newport, Newport County, RI, in the Newport Wills Book 7C X 1, page 200, in the Newport Historical Society. It reads in part " ... Benjamin DURFEE, of Newport, gentleman ... to son William all of my farm ... to son Benjamin 5 pounds, Rhode Island money, he already having land by deed of gift ... to son Richard both of the farms I bought of William Corey, being in Tiverton, and lying between the land of widow Bennett and Benjamin DURFEE Jr. ... to son Thomas the farm on which he now lives, except the north half of the dwelling house which is reserved for daughters Susannah and Martha DURFEE so long as they remain single ... to three grandsons James DURFEE, Joseph Hicks, and William DURFEE, son of Samuel DURFEE ... to daughter Anna Browning 50 pounds in Rhode Island money ... to grandson DURFEE Hix 100 acres I had of John Easty ... to daughter Mercy DURFEE a lot in Tiverton ... to daughter Lusannah DURFEE 1000 pounds of Rhode Island money ... " .
On January 24, 1766, William wrote his will which was recorded in the Tiverton, Newport County, RI, Wills Book 2, pages 353-354. In it he mentions his brothers Benjamin DURFEE and Richard DURFEE, and his sisters Martha DURFEE and Susannah Wright.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 29, and 187.
The Earle Family Genealogy. Pliney Earle. 1888. Pages 22-24, and 35.Noted events in her life were:
1. Alt. Birth; 28 Jan 1713.
Susannah married someone between 1753-1766 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI.
48 F viii. Martha Durfee-[762] 1 was born on 13 Jul 1719 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died after 1766 in Prob. Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:195.
Benjamin's will was written in 1753, and recorded February 6, 1754, in Newport, Newport County, RI, in the Newport Wills Book 7C X 1(11A), page 200, in the Newport Historical Society. It reads in part " ... Benjamin DURFEE, of Newport, gentleman ... to son William all of my farm ... to son Benjamin 5 pounds, Rhode Island money, he already having land by deed of gift ... to son Richard both of the farms I bought of William Corey, being in Tiverton, and lying between the land of widow Bennett and Benjamin DURFEE Jr. ... to son Thomas the farm on which he now lives, except the north half of the dwelling house which is reserved for daughters Susannah and Martha DURFEE so long as they remain single ... ".
On January 24, 1766, William wrote his will which was recorded in the Tiverton, Newport County, RI, Wills Book 2, pages 353-354. In it he mentions his brothers Benjamin DURFEE and Richard DURFEE, and his sisters Martha DURFEE and Susannah Wright.
Martha was still single in 1766, when she was mentioned in the will of her brother William.
The Earle Genealogy gives her birth as July 15, 1719.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 29.
The Earle Family Genealogy. Pliney Earle. 1888. Pages 22-24, and 35.
49 M ix. Thomas Durfee-[184] 1 was born on 5 Nov 1721 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 4 and died on 19 Jul 1796 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA 4. User ID:45.
Inherited a large estate from father, and land from wife's father at F all River, Mass. Member of both House and Senate for Massachusetts. Di d not fight in Revolution.
Inherited a large estate from father, and land from wife's father at Fall River, Mass. Member of both House and Senate for Massachesetts. Did not fight in Revolution.
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Thomas DURFEE was born in Tiverton, Rhode Island, November 5, 1721, and became one of the magnates of his day, living in a manner commensurate with his wealth. The farm on which he lived and died he inherited from his father, it including all that part of the Fall River of the present day lying north of the line of Elm street and south of Turner street, extending from the shore to Watuppa Lake. He owned other large tracts, and on the death of his father-iii-lax, Joseph Borden, of Freetown, he came into possession of valuable water power. He enclosed a large park, in which he maintained a herd of deer, and at his home he entertained with generous and warm-hearted hospitality. Among his guests was General Lafayette, who upon his return to France acknowledged his entertainment by the Durfees by the gift of a pair of blooded French hounds. A high-minded, upright and intelligent man, he was called to high place in the public service, and during the Revolution he used a large portion of his estate to further the cause of independence. He represented Freetown (now Fall River) for many years in the Great Court and in the General Court; sat in the State Senate thirteen sessions by election; was a member of the governor's council six years, and judge of the Court of Sessions for Bristol county several years. He died at his home July 9, 1796. Thomas DURFEE married, August 9, 1747, Patience Borden, of Freetown, daughter of Joseph Borden, and they were the parents of a large family, including a son, Charles, of further mention.
A record of their marriage is found in Arnold's Rhode Island Vital Records Volume 4, page 23. They were married in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, by Justice of the Peace Samuel DURFEE and both were of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, at that time. Their banns were published in Freetown May 16, 1747.
The distribution of Benjamin's estate was recorded in the Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Registry of Probate in Book 16 Pages 44-45. It states that he was late of Newport, Newport County, RI, yeoman, deceased. The distribution was ordered May 6, 1755. His wife Prudence (Earle) DURFEE died in 1733. In his will Benjamin does not mention a wife so he probably did not marry a second time. The will read in part " ... to son Thomas 138 acres. To William DURFEE, grandson of Benjamin DURFEE 138 acres. To the heirs of Joseph Hicks (deceased), one of the grandsons, 220 acres. To James DURFEE, one of the grandsons, 70 acres. ... ".
Benjamin's will was written in 1753, and recorded February 6, 1754, in Newport, Newport County, RI, in the Newport Wills Book 7C X 1, page 200, in the Newport Historical Society. It reads in part " ... Benjamin DURFEE, of Newport, gentleman ... to son William all of my farm ... to son Benjamin 5 pounds, Rhode Island money, he already having land by deed of gift ... to son Richard both of the farms I bought of William Corey, being in Tiverton, and lying between the land of widow Bennett and Benjamin DURFEE Jr. ... to son Thomas the farm on which he now lives (138 acres), except the north half of the dwelling house which is reserved for daughters Susannah and Martha DURFEE so long as they remain single ... to three grandsons James DURFEE, Joseph Hicks, and William DURFEE, son of Samuel DURFEE ... to daughter Anna Browning 50 pounds in Rhode Island money ... to grandson DURFEE Hix 100 acres I had of John Easty ... to daughter Mercy DURFEE a lot in Tiverton ... to daughter Lusannah DURFEE 1000 pounds of Rhode Island money ... " .
Thomas DURFEE of Tiverton, was admitted a freeman of the Colony of Rhode Island in 1755. From Rhode Island Freemen 1747-1755. Page 23. Apparently Thomas lived in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, for only a short period after his marriage in 1747, to about 1755-1765, when he settled in Freetown. Reed is probably incorrect in stating that his children born after about 1760-1765, were born in Tiverton.
The farm referred to in Benjamin's will was located in what is now Fall River, Bristol County, MA, on the spot on which the " County house " stood in 1897, and bordered west on the Taunton River and east on North Watuppa pond. In the mid seventeen hundreds it was part of Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
In 1765, Thomas and Patience DURFEE of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, sold property in Newport, Newport County, RI, to Patience Turner. Newport, Newport County, RI, Deeds Book 8, page 4.
Beginning May 29, 1769, Thomas Durphey of Freetown was a representative to the Massachusetts Assembly. He was also selected again in May 1766, May 1767, and May 1768. From the Journals of the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts. Volume 42.
On May 24, 1774, Captain Thomas DURFEE of Freetown was its representative in the Massachusetts General Assembly. On December 7, 1774,Thomas DURFEE represented Freetown, as deputy, to the Provincial Congress in Boston, Suffolk County, MA. He was Freetown's representative again on February 1, 1775, and May 31, 1775. He served on committees that dealt with Troop movements, recruiting, pay, food, clothing, etc. From the Journals of the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts. Volume 50, page 248.
On January 9, 1788, a convention was held in Boston, Suffolk County, MA, to vote on the ratification of the new United States Constitution and the Honorable Thomas DURFEE Esquire, delegate of Freetown, voted to ratify.
He was long a member of the General Court of Mass, and in both the House and the Senate, and was for six years a member of the Governor's council, and as such was one of the honorable pall bearers at the funeral of Governor John Hancock, in 1793."
Although he had a physical handicap he was commissioned as a captain in one of the militia companies of Freetown, prior to May 1774, when as a representative to the Massachusetts Assembly he was called Captain DURFEE.
"He mortgaged his entire farm to raise funds to support the General Congress, and when he was paid by the Government, it was in Continental currency, which had become so depreciated it was of little value in comparison to the amount loaned.
"Remaining as honorable to the last as he had been patriotic at the first, he refused to pay off his mortgage with the currency he had received from the Government. He said: 'I received good and substantial money on this loan, and the farm itself shall go to restore it. The farm was therefore turned over to his creditor, and thus Thomas DURFEE became comparatively poor. ".
When the U. S. 1790 census of Freetown MA, was taken Thomas' family was 7 males over 16, 5 females and 3 other free people.
In his will dated July 1, 1796, Thomas stated that as of that date his age was 74 years, 6 months, and 26 days and left " ... to children, Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner, Abigail DURFEE, Benjamin DURFEE, Charles DURFEE, James DURFEE, Thomas DURFEE, Samuel DURFEE, and to two grandchildren, Abigail DURFEE and Lucretia DURFEE, children of son Nathan DURFEE $ 1.00 each. All property to wife Patience and she is to be Executrix ... ". Book 34, page 173 at the Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA.
Patience was not listed on the U. S. 1800 census of Freetown but most of her sons were and she probably was living with one of them.
In her will dated April 23, 1801, and proved October 5, 1801, Patience left " ... to eldest son Joseph DURFEE a History of England, a stone sledge and claims against the Government in the hands of Pardon Gray. To son Benjamin clothing and three American Gazetteers. To daughter Hope Chaloner 1/5 lot of land to compensate her for schooling two grandchildren of her son Nathan (deceased). To daughter Abigail DURFEE $ 1.00 and a U. S. note for $ 119.40, etc. To three daughters Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner and Abigail DURFEE wearing apparel. To son Charles DURFEE crosscut saw and a law book. To two granddaughters Abigail DURFEE and Lucretia DURFEE daughters of son Nathan bedding, silver buckles etc. To son James securities against him. To grandson Thomas DURFEE son of son James DURFEE silver knee buckles. To son Thomas bedding and trunk marked T. D. To son Samuel pair of gold sleeve buttons. To grandson Thomas Chaloner pair of silver shoe buckles, To granddaughter Nancy DURFEE daughter of son Charles DURFEE small bed. To two sons Joseph DURFEE and Samuel DURFEE interest in a wharf at Newport, Newport County, RI. To son Thomas lot of land, he to give sister Abigail DURFEE lease of house and lot as long as she remains unmarried. She recommends Robert Erwin, an Irishman, who has lived with her many years, to the gentle care and attention of her children ... ". Her daughter Abigail DURFEE was executrix. Registry of Probate, Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Book 39, page 243.
The Honorable Thomas DURFEE was buried in Oak Grove Cemetery in Fall River, Bristol County, MA. From an Abstract of Graves of Revolutionary Patriots on the internet at Ancestry.com. January 2000.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 29, and 188.
The Earle Family Genealogy. Pliney Earle. 1888. Pages 22-24, and 35.Noted events in his life were:
1. Visit; Tiverton, Newport County, RI. Entertained General Lafayette
Thomas married Patience Borden-[101] [MRIN:54], daughter of Joseph Borden-[183] and Abigail Russell-[468], on 19 Aug 1796 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 4.
50 M x. Richard Durfee-[764] 1 was born on 9 Nov 1723 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died between 1770-1780 in Rhode Island. User ID:197.
The Cole Genealogy says that they were married in Plymouth, Plymouth County, MA, August 30, 1747. The book Early Massachusetts Marriages says they were married August 30, 1750. Richard was of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, at the time of their marriage and Rebecca was of Plymouth. Also Reed says that Rebecca was born in 1727, but the Cole Genealogy says she was born November 28, 1729.
In his will dated February 4, 1710, and proved July 14, 1712, Thomas named his wife Deliverance executrix and left " ... To youngest son, Benjamin, 50 acres in Tiverton. ... ". In 1709, his father gave him land in what is now Fall River, Bristol County, MA, that he had purchased from William Manchester in 1681. Benjamin left this land to his son Captain William who in turn, in 1766, left the south half of this land to his nephew Richard DURFEE, son of his brother Richard DURFEE and to James DURFEE, son of his brother Benjamin. The north half he left to another relative William Borden.
Benjamin's will was written in 1753, and recorded February 6, 1754, in Newport, Newport County, RI, in the Newport Wills Book 7C X 1, page 200, in the Newport Historical Society. It reads in part " ... Benjamin DURFEE, of Newport, gentleman ... to son William all of my farm ... to son Benjamin 5 pounds, Rhode Island money, he already having land by deed of gift ... to son Richard both of the farms I bought of William Corey, being in Tiverton, and lying between the land of widow Bennett and Benjamin DURFEE Jr. ... to son Thomas the farm on which he now lives, except the north half of the dwelling house which is reserved for daughters Susannah and Martha DURFEE so long as they remain single ... to three grandsons James DURFEE, Joseph Hicks, and William DURFEE, son of Samuel DURFEE ... to daughter Anna Browning 50 pounds in Rhode Island money ... to grandson DURFEE Hix 100 acres I had of John Easty ... to daughter Mercy DURFEE a lot in Tiverton ... to daughter Lusannah DURFEE 1000 pounds of Rhode Island money ... ".
Rebecca inherited a house in Plymouth, Plymouth County, MA, from her father and on August 24, 1752, Richard Durfey, yeoman, of Freetown and Rebecca his wife sold the house to John Churchill. From Davis' Land Marks of Plymouth and Plymouth County Registry of Deeds in Middleboro, Plymouth County, MA, Book 41, page 263.
Richard DURFEE of Tiverton, Newport County, RI, was admitted a freeman of the Colony in 1755. From Rhode Island Freemen 1747-1755, page 23.
According to Joseph smith's Civil and Military List of Rhode Island, Volume 1, page 173, Richard was a Lieutenant in the 2nd Tiverton Company, commanded by Captain George Cook, of the Newport County regiment of militia in May 1755, and in May 1756, he was the captain of the same company.
On October 25, 1759, Richard DURFEE, of Tiverton, Newport County, RI, purchased property in Plymouth, Plymouth County, MA.
On January 24, 1766, William DURFEE wrote his will which was recorded in the Tiverton, Newport County, RI, Wills Book 2, pages 353-354. In it he mentions his brothers Benjamin DURFEE, Richard DURFEE and his sisters Martha DURFEE and Susannah Wright. He also mentions his nephews James, son of Benjamin and Richard, son of Richard.
In Book 2, page 246 of the Newport, Newport County, RI, land records there is a deed dated August 25, 1777, for a house and lot from Richard Durfey " ... to James Almy, Negro, former servant to John Almy and to Rebecca my wife ... for eighteen dollars and one half dollar.. for my house in Newtown (a district in Newport) ..."
The February 21, 1784, issue of the Newport (RI) Mercury on page 3, has this death notice; "Died - In This Town Mr. Richard DURFEE". It is assumed that this notice refers to the Richard Durfey of North Kingstown and Newport but it is possible that it is the death notice of Richard of Tiverton.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 29 and 190.
The Earle Family Genealogy. Pliney Earle. 1888. Pages 22-24, and 35.
20. Gardner Durfee-[88] 1 (Joseph10, Thomas1) was born on 2 Apr 1775 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 7 and died in 1820 in Athens, Athens County, OH 8. User ID:290.Richard married someone on 30 Aug 1749 in Plymouth, Plymouth County, MA.
From October 1799, to May 1805, Gardner was a cornet in the Tiverton and Little Compton Dragoons under the command of Captain John Bailey. From May 1805, to June 1809, he was a 2nd Lieutenant in the same unit. From Smith's Civil and Military List of Rhode Island Volume 1, page 610 and Volume 2, pages 30, 46, 75, 88, 101, 113, 126, and 141.
Gardner and Betsey were married in Assonet Village by Jesse Bullock Esq. He was of Tiverton and she of Freetown.
When the U. S. 1810 census of Tiverton, Newport County, RI, was taken Gardner's family was 3 males under 10, 1 male 26-45, 2 females under 10, and 1 female 26-45.
As a young man Gardner was a seaman and there is a copy of a seaman's certificate issued to " Gardner DURFEE, son of Joseph DURFEE ", about 1810-1812, in the vault of the Newport (RI) Historical Society. Gardner was a soldier in the War of 1812.
When the U. S. 1820 census of Fearing Twp., Washington County, OH, was taken Gardner was dead and Elizabeth's family was 4 males under 10, 2 males 10-16, 1 male 16-18, 1 male 16-26, 1 female 10-16, 1 female 16-26, and 1 female 26-45. Two were engaged in agriculture.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 284 and 457.
Gardner married Elizabeth Betsey Brightman-[89] [MRIN:26], daughter of George Brightman-[176] and Lydia Barnaby-[177], on 22 Jun 1800 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA.
They had the following children:
51 F i. Abigail Durfee-[90] 1 was born on 13 Jun 1801 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died in Feb 1862 in Amestown, Athens County, OH. User ID:10236.
On December 6, 1821, Abigail Durfie married Sylvanus Howe in Washington County, OH. From Marriage Index, Ohio, 1789-1850, a CD Rom by Family Tree Maker.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 457 and Volume 2, page 181.Research: >Birth note: Birth Surety:0
Abigail married someone on 6 Dec 1821 in Marietta, Washington County, OH.
52 M ii. Joseph Durfee-[91] 1 was born on 8 Feb 1803 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died in 1843 in Athens County, OH. User ID:168.
On March 2, 1830, Joseph DURFEE married Margaret Moore in Athens County, OH. From Marriage Index, Ohio, 1789-1850, a CD Rom by Family Tree Maker.
About 1832, Joseph moved to Marion, Marion County, OH, with his brother Gardner. He was a carpenter.
According to the Marion County History, Joseph was a Whig. He was elected to the Board of Trustees in 1833, and 1834, and it was this Board of Trustees that founded Marion Academy. He was elected sheriff of Marion County on October 8, 1839, and served until about 1841. While sheriff he lived in the log jail.
Even though he was a resident of Marion, Joseph was not listed on the U. S. 1840 census. There was an Alexander DURFEE on that census in Marion and his family very closely matches Joseph's family. Perhaps Joseph's middle name was Alexander ?
During the period 1845-1855, Margaret taught in the Marion public schools.
Neither Joseph's widow nor any of his children were listed on the U. S. 1850 census of Marion, Marion County, OH.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 457 and Volume 2, page 185.
The History of Marion County, Ohio. Jacoby. Leggett, Conway & Company. Edition of 1975. Pages 69 and 219.
Joseph married someone on 2 Mar 1830 in Athens, Athens County, OH.
53 F iii. Caroline Durfee-[92] 1 was born on 17 Feb 1805 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 24 Jul 1884 in Near Amesville, Athens County, OH. User ID:2105.
In 1820, Caroline was living with her parents in Athens, Athens County, OH. Jason was a farmer and they spent most of their lives in Federal Creek, Athens County, OH, near Amesville.
On November 12, 1826, Caroline DURFEE married Jason Rice, Jr. in Athens County, OH. From Marriage Index, Ohio, 1789-1850, a CD Rom by Family Tree Maker.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 457 and Volume 2, page 186.
Caroline married someone on 12 Nov 1826 in Near Amesville, Athens County, OH.
54 M iv. Gardner Durfee-[93] 1 was born on 14 Feb 1807 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 21 Oct 1844 in Marion, Marion County, OH. User ID:156.
Gardner moved to Athens, Athens County, Ohio, about 1820, with his parents and siblings. About 1832, he moved to Marion, Marion County, Ohio, with his brother Joseph. Gardner owned a cabinet shop and his brother Henry worked with him in that business in Mount Blanchard, Hancock County, OH. They later sold the shop to their nephew Albertus Howe. In politics he was a Whig and in 1841-1842, he served on the Marion Town Board of Trustees.
Gardner's marriage to Mary Sweetser was recorded in Book 3, page 25 in the Delaware County, OH, Courthouse. They were married November 8, 1835, in Marion, Marion County, OH, by the Reverend James Austin. The marriage record is also in Marriage Records of Delaware County, by the Daughters of the American Revolution in Volume 1, page 76. Delaware was the parent County of Marion County.
Gardner was not listed on the U. S. 1840 census in Marion but a Godman DURFEE was. No other record of a man named Godman DURFEE has been found and it is believed that Godman was Gardner.
In the winter of 1843, he became a member of the Methodist Church of Marion. The probate records of Gardner's estate are to be found in the Marion County Courthouse in Case 159.
Mary, Gardner's widow, was listed in Marion on the U. S. 1850 census living in the house of Hiram Camp. Her family was Mary 36, born NY, Edward 13, born OH, Emmeline 11, born OH, and George 9, born OH. Her brother-in-law Bradford was also living in Marion in 1850.
When the U. S. 1860 census was taken Mary was still listed in Marion and her family was Mary 45, born NY, Edward 23, clerk, born OH, and George 19, clerk, born OH. Mary's brother-in-law, Bradford was also listed in Marion, Marion County, OH, on the 1860 census.
When the U. S. 1880 census of Marion, Marion County, OH, was taken Mary was not listed, though her son Edward and his family were.
Some of the property that Gardner purchased in Marion about 1832, was still owned by some of his children in 1904.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 457 and Volume 2, page 187.
Gardner married someone on 12 May 1833 in Marion, Marion County, OH.
Gardner also married someone on 8 Nov 1835 in Delaware County, OH.
+ 55 M v. Nathan Durfee-[81] 1 was born on 4 Jul 1809 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI 7 and died on 18 May 1875 in Decatur, Macon County, IL 7
56 M vi. Aaron Durfee-[94] 1 was born in 1808 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died between 1806-1815 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI. User ID:10237.
Died in childhood.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 457.
57 M vii. Charles Durfee-[95] 1 was born on 15 Feb 1815 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 22 Jan 1882 in Clarksville, Red River County, TX. User ID:4536.
Charles moved with his parents to Athens, Athens County, OH, about 1818. Charles was a cabinet maker and a Baptist. He moved to Arkansas in 1842, and from there to Clarksville, Red River County, TX, about 1846.
On October 11, 1848 (Reed says they married November 3, 1849), Charles DURFEE married Matilda Dew in Red River County, TX. From Marriage Index AR, MS, MO, TX, 1766-1981, Red River, TX. Family Tree Maker Marriage Bundle CD Rom # 5.
In 1861 he enlisted as a private in B Company, 9th Texas Infantry (Young's) regiment, Confederate Army and fought in the battle of Shiloh (or Pittsburgh Landing), TN. According to Reed his nephew Captain George S. DURFEE in the Union Army was wounded at Shiloh.
Matilda was living in Clarksville, Red River County, TX, in 1904. The database states that Matilda died in 1861.
There is some additional information and some conflicting information in a genealogy database on the internet at www.gentree.com,1998. It gives Charles' birth year as 1822, and Matilda's last name as McCowen (was she a widow?). Matilda's birth, marriage and death are from this database as well as some additional details on Marie's children.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 457 and Volume 2, page 189.
Charles married someone on 2 May 1844 in Washington, AR.
Charles also married someone on 3 Nov 1849 in Clarksville, Red River County, TX.
58 M viii. Bradford R. Durfee-[96] 1 was born on 27 Jan 1816 in Tiverton, Newport County, RI and died on 20 Feb 1863 in Marion, Marion County, OH. User ID:10238.
Bradford R. DURFEE was one of the leading members of the Marion bar for 20 years before the Civil War. He was born January 20, 1816, in Tiverton, Rhode Island, now Fall River, Massachusetts. He was a descendant of Thomas DURFEE, who came from England in 1660. His grandfather, Joseph DURFEE, was a colonel in the Revolutionary Army. In 1816 the Durfees came to this State, first residing in Athens County, then in Cleveland. In 1834 young DURFEE came to Marion, where he worked for several years in the cabinet and carpenter shops of his brothers, and at nights studied law. He was admitted to the bar in 1841, and was wont to say that he went from the "bench" to the bar. He was at different times associated with Cooper K. Watson, George Rowe and Ozias Bowen. In the later years of his life he engaged in the banking business with marked success. When the Civil War broke out, he volunteered as a private soldier in the Fourth Regiment, Ohio Vol. Inf., was commissioned lieutenant-colonel of the regiment, December 31, 1861, and soon after became its colonel. He died at Marion, February 20, 1863. He was the father of E. B. DURFEE, now in active practice in Marion.
In Volume 1 Reed gives January 27, 1816, as Bradford's birth date, but in Volume 2 he gives January 20, 1816. The History of Marion County (OH), also gives his birth date as January 20, 1816.
Bradford moved to Marion about 1834, where he worked with his brothers Joseph and Gardner in the cabinet and carpentry business. He was admitted to the Ohio Bar in July 1841. He practiced law alone for a time and later in association with Judge Cooper K. Watson, General George Rowe, and Judge Ozias Bowen. He was also interested in banking, establishing DURFEE's Exchange Bank in Marion, the First Bank of Logan County in Bellefontaine (OH) in 1849, the Delaware County Bank in Muncie, IN, and another in Indianapolis, IN.
When the U. S. 1850 census of Marion, Marion County, OH, was taken Bradford's household was B. R. DURFEE 34, born RI, lawyer, M. M. DURFEE 34, born NJ, Abby C. Dunlap 36, born NJ, John J. Dunlap 5, born OH, and Mary Balsey 13, born Ger?
Bradford and Mary had no children.
When the U. S. 1860 census of Marion, Marion County, OH, was taken Bradford's family was Bradford R. 44, attorney at law, born RI, Pauline M. 26, born OH, Elisha B. 1, born OH, and Charles Cooper 17, born OH.
In April 1861, the day after Ft. Sumter was fired on, Bradford enlisted as a private in the 4th Ohio Volunteer Infantry regiment. He was commissioned Lieutenant Colonel of that regiment on December 31, 1861, and soon after that he became Colonel, commanding that regiment. He commanded the regiment in its successful attack on Romney, freeing many Union soldiers who were imprisoned there.
When the U. S. 1900 census of Marion, Marion County, OH, was taken Elisha's household was E. Bright born OH, May 1859, single, lawyer, Cauline (Pauline) Hamner born OH, July 1834, mother, widow, had five children, 4 still living, Ruth Hamner born OH, April 1873, single, music teacher, Theodosia Hamner born OH, August 1875, music teacher, and Genevieve Hamner born OH, July 1877, kindergarten teacher.
Pauline's second husband was a minister. She was a widow, and living in Marion, Marion County, OH, in 1904. The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 457 and Volume 2, page 189.
The History of Marion County. Leggett, Conway and Company. 1883. Pages 367, 368, 508, and 647.
Bradford married someone on 6 Nov 1843 in Marion, Marion County, OH.
Bradford also married someone on 6 Apr 1858 in Marion, Marion County, OH.
59 M ix. Henry B. Durfee-[97] 1 was born on 26 Mar 1820 in Athens, Athens County, OH and died in Mar 1880 in Decatur, Macon County, IL. User ID:2096.
Henry was a cabinet maker and a land speculator. He owned a cabinet shop and his brother Gardner worked with him in that business in Mount Blanchard, Hancock County, OH. They later sold the shop to their nephew Albertus Howe. In 1843, he was the clerk of the Board of Trustees of Marion, Marion County, OH. Marion County History, page 548.
During the period 1840-1850, Henry taught in the public schools of Marion.
On May 4, 1848, Henry B. DURFEE married Nancy Smith in Handcock County, OH. From Marriage Index, Ohio, 1789-1850, a CD Rom by Family Tree Maker.
When the U. S. 1850 census was taken Henry lived in Macon, Macon County, IL, and his family was Henry B., store clerk, 30, born Ohio, and Nancy L. 25, born Pennsylvania. No children were listed. Shortly after 1850, he moved to Decatur, Macon County, IL, where he taught school and was also engaged in business.
Mount Blanchard is in Hancock County, OH. The marriage of Henry and Nancy Smith is recorded in the Handcock County Courthouse.
Henry was listed on the U. S. 1860 census of Decatur, Macon County, IL, and his family was H. B. DURFEE, land dealer, 38, born OH, Lucretia 28, born OH, Harry 4, born IL, Nelly 2, born IL, and George 2/12, born IL. Also a domestic named Laura Stumpin 13, born Germany.
Lucretia, Henry's widow, was listed on the U. S. 1880 census in Decatur and her family was Lucretia B. 48, Harry B., lawyer, 24, Nelly 22, Frank 17, Fred J. 12 and Maude 9. All children were born in Illinois.
In 1904 Lucretia was living in Paris.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 457 and Volume 2, page 190.
The History of Marion County, Ohio. Legget, Conway & Company. 1883. Pages 343 and 548.
Henry married someone on 4 May 1848 in Mount Blanchard, Hancock County, OH.
31. Charles Durfee-[185] 1 (Thomas11, Thomas1) was born on 20 Nov 1761 in Freetown, Bristol County, MA and died on 8 Feb 1812 in Fall River, Bristol County, MA. User ID:1131.Henry also married someone on 9 May 1854 in Marion, Marion County, OH.
Charles DURFEE was born in Tiverton, Rhode Island, November 20, 1761, became one of the leading citizens of Fall River, and there died February 8, 1812. A man of means, he gave his time to the care of his private estate and to the public service. He served as local magistrate (justice of the peace) for many years, was selectman of the town, and. in 1803 called to meet in his office the citizens who wished to discuss the advisability of incorporating the town of Fall River. He married, in Freetown, Massachusetts, November 23, 1792, Welthe Hathaway of Freetown, born there in 1771, died at Fall River in February, 1851, daughter of Gilbert and Mary (Weaver) Hathaway. She survived her husband, and married (second) at Fall River, June 7. 1820, Silas Payne. Descent is traced in this branch through Dr. Nathan, eldest son of the ten children of Charles and Welthe (Hathaway) DURFEE.
Reed states that Charles was born in Tiverton, Newport County, RI, but his parents were residents of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, during that period.
Charles served as a private in the Revolutionary War. His periods of service were beginning April 9, 1778, for three months in Captain Joseph DURFEE's company of Freetown militia. From August 9, 1779, to September 24, 1779, he served in Captain Thomas Elsbro's Company, Colonel Livingston's Regiment. He served two other short tours and on one was second corporal of the company. National Archives Revolutionary War Service File # 4280.
Reed says that Wealthy's mother was Mary Weaver but another source says her mother was Elizabeth Eliza Williams.
In his will dated July 1, 1796, Thomas stated that as of that date he was 74 years, 6 months, and 26 days of age and left " ... to children, Hope Chaloner, Prudence Gardner, Abigail DURFEE, Benjamin DURFEE, Charles DURFEE, James DURFEE, Thomas DURFEE, Samuel DURFEE, and to two grandchildren, Abigail DURFEE and Lucretia DURFEE, children of son Nathan DURFEE $ 1.00 each. All property to wife Patience and she is to be Executrix ... ". Book 34, page 173 at the Registry of Probate in Taunton, Bristol County, MA.
When the U. S. 1800 census of Freetown, Bristol County, MA, was taken Charles' family was 1 male under 10, 1 male 26-45, 1 male over 45, 3 females under 10, 2 females 10-16, 3 females 26-45, and 1 female over 45. Living nearby were his brothers Benjamin, James and Thomas.
In her will dated April 23, 1801, and proved October 5, 1801, Patience left " ... to son Charles DURFEE crosscut saw and a law book. To granddaughter Nancy DURFEE daughter of son Charles DURFEE small bed. ... ". Her daughter Abigail DURFEE was executrix. Registry of Probate, Taunton, Bristol County, MA, Book 39, page 243. In 1801, he was the assessor of Freetown, according to the History of Freetown, page 136.
In 1803, Charles called the meeting to vote on the incorporation of Fall River as a separate town. In 1809-1819, he was Justice of the Peace and Selectman of Fall River, Bristol County, MA.
According to Arnold's Rhode Island Vital Records Volume 8, page 59, Wealthy was baptized in the United Congregational Church of Tiverton May 11, 1806.
On November 24, 1810, the ship Ann and Hope was captured near Holland. This vessel was built in Troy, MA, in 1806, and one third was owned by Charles DURFEE, shipwright, of Troy, MA, and one third was owned by George Greene who was also master. From Ships Documents of Rhode Island.
When the U. S. 1810 census of Troy, Bristol County, MA, was taken Charles' family was 4 males under 10, 1 male 10-16, 1 male over 45, 1 female under 10, 1 female 10-16, 1 female 16-26, 1 female 26-45, and 1 female over 45. Living nearby were his brothers Benjamin, Thomas, and James.
Arnold's Rhode island Vital Records in Volume 21, gives February 1, 1812, as his death date, but both Reed and the H. E. Turner Records in the vault in the Newport, Newport County, RI, Historical Society give February 8, 1812, as his death date. At the time of his death Fall River was called Troy.
Wealthy had no children by her second husband.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two Volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, pages 188 and 257.
Charles married Welthe Hathaway-[186] [MRIN:55], daughter of Gilbert Hathaway-[187] and Mary Weaver-[188], on 23 Nov 1792 in Freetown, Mass.
They had the following children:
60 M i. Nathan Durfee-[189] was born in 1799 in Freetown, Mass.
Nathan DURFEE was born in then Freetown, now Fall River, Massachusetts, June 18,1799, and died there April 6, 1876. After public school courses he entered Brown University, whence he was graduated A. B., class of 1824. Later choosing a profession, he prepared at Harvard Medical School) and in 1831 was awarded the degree of M. D. by that institution. He practiced his profession for a time at River, also, and for several years, conducted a (drug store located in the first brick structure erected in the township. Later, after building his -own brick) residence at the northeast corner of Bank and North Main streets, he established his drug store in that building. Dr. DURFEE did not enjoy his professional work and finally retired from both !his profession and the drug business, and while he was most of his active life interested it,. Fall River Mills and manufacturing he had, like his ancestors, a great love for the land and gave himself to the care of his estate, owning t is said about 1,000 acres at one time. Among the manufacturing and transportation corporations which he served as a director were the Iron Works; American Print Works; the Old Fall River railroad and the Cape Cod railroad. He was one of the owners of the Bay State Steamboat Line; was principal owner of the Massasoit Stearn Print Works, which burned in 1875; was interested in several banks), and after the fire of 1843 he built the Mt. Hope block, to be used as a hotel.
Dr. DURFEE was a member of the Congregational church, a founder of its Sunday school, and a leader in moral thought, his activities covering a wide range. He was also a leader in civic affairs, held several city offices, and represented his district in the State House of Representatives. His large estate was divided by a will probated June 18, 1876, among his children, generous bequests being also made to the Foreign and Home Missionary societies. He was a man of broad sympathies, publicspirited and progressive, few men leaving a more beneficial impress upon the life of Fall River than Dr. Nathan DURFEE.
Dr. DURFEE married at Fall River, April 24, 1827, Delena Borden, born May 5, 1801, and died January 30, 1863, daughter of Captain George Borden, of the prominent Borden family. Dr. and Mrs. DURFEE were parents of five children, all born at Fall River: Mary Maria, born July 8, 1829; Minerva, born January 24, 1836, died May 11, 1837; Harriet M., born July 20, 1838; Holder Borden, of whom further; and Annie G., born May 6, 1842.
Nathan married Delena Borden-[190] [MRIN:57], daughter of Captain George Borden-[191] and Unknown.
On March 16, 1837, Nathan DURFEE married Margaret Kirk in Cuyahoga County, OH. From Marriage Index, Ohio, 1789-1850, a CD Rom by Family Tree Maker.
Nathan DURFEE, cabinet maker, was listed on the Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, OH, Directory, 1837-1838, at Academy St.
On the U. S. 1850 census of Emmett, Calhoun County, MI, his family was Nathan 39, cabinet maker, born RI, Margaret 38, born England, Bradford 12, George L. 10, Charles M. 7, Jane E. 5, and James H. 2. The birthplace of all children was Michigan. Living with them were six boarders.
Nathan and his entire family moved to Decatur, Macon County, IL, in 1858.
When the U. S. 1860 census of Decatur, Macon County, IL, was taken his family was Nathan 51, farmer, Margaret 45, Bradford 22, George 19, Charles 17, Jane 15, James 12 and Caroline 7. All of the children were born in Michigan.
On May 24, 1861, Nathan enlisted for three years as a private in Company H, 4th Ohio Volunteer Infantry and was mustered out June 21, 1864. It is remarkable that a man of his age could have served three years in the army. His Civil War service was also recorded in the History of Marion County (OH), on page 459.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 1, page 457 and Volume 2, page 188.
Nathan married Margaret Kirk-[82] [MRIN:25], daughter of Philip Kirk-[2036] and Margaret Karmode-[2001], on 16 Mar 1837 in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, OH 7.
Surety:0
They had the following children:
+ 61 M i. Bradford Kirk Durfee-[30] 1 was born on 25 Mar 1838 in Marshall, Calhoun County, MI 7 and died after 1905 in Prob. IL
62 M ii. George Solon Durfee-[83] 1 was born on 13 Mar 1840 in Marshall, Calhoun County, MI and died in 1907 in IL. User ID:2003.
On the U. S. 1850 census of Emmett, Calhoun County, MI, Nathan's family was Nathan 39, cabinet maker, born RI, Margaret 38, born England, Bradford 12, George L. 10, Charles M. 7, Jane E. 5, and James H. 2. The birthplace of all children was Michigan.
When the U. S. 1860 census of Decatur, Macon County, IL, was taken Nathan's family was Nathan 51, farmer, born RI, Margaret 45, born England, Bradford 22, George 19, Charles 17, Jane 15, James 12 and Caroline 7. The children were all born in Michigan.
On April 18, 1861, George S. DURFEE of Decatur, Macon County, IL, enlisted as a private in A Company, 8th Illinois Volunteer Infantry and in 1861, he was promoted to sergeant and in 1862, to 2nd Lieutenant. He was promoted to 1st Lieutenant in 1864, and captain in the same regiment later. He fought in 14 major battles, and was wounded at Shiloh. He was mustered out At Baton Rouge, LA, May 4, 1866. From American Civil War Research Database, Soldiers, on the internet at Ancestry.com, January 2000.
After the war he became a dealer in farm implements. He was a Republican, a member of the Knights Templars and the Knights of Pythias. He was also connected to the G. A. R.
On September 5, 1867, George DURFEE married Sarah A. Powers in Macon County, IL. From Illinois Marriages 1763-1900, a database placed on the internet by the Illinois Department of Archives, October 1999.
On April 25, 1901, he applied for a military pension and on January 2, 1908, his widow applied while living in Washington. Her Washington address might be a mistake. In 1904, they were living in Decatur.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 2, pages 188 and 442.
The Groton Avery Clan. Elroy Avery. 1912. Pages 441 and 442.
George married someone on 5 Sep 1867 in Decatur, Macon County, IL.
63 M iii. Charles Mortimer Durfee-[765] 1 was born on 3 Mar 1843 in Battle Creek, Calhoun County, MI and died on 12 Feb 1894 in Decatur, Macon County, IL. User ID:217.
On the U. S. 1850 census of Emmett, Calhoun County, MI, Nathan's family was Nathan 39, cabinet maker, born Rhode Island, Margaret 38, born England, Bradford 12, George L. 10, Charles M. 7, Jane E. 5, and James H. 2. The birthplace of all children was Michigan.
When the U. S. 1860 census of Decatur, Macon County, IL, was taken Nathan's family was Nathan 51, farmer, born RI, Margaret 45, born England, Bradford 22, George 19, Charles 17, Jane 15, James 12 and Caroline 7. The children were all born in Michigan.
When the U. S. 1880 census of Decatur, Macon County, IL, was taken Charles 37, born MI, dealer in agricultural implements, was living with his sister Jennie and his brother James.
Charles never married.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 2, page 188.
64 F iv. Jennie E. Durfee-[85] 1 was born on 21 May 1845 in Battle Creek, Calhoun County, MI. User ID:317.
On the U. S. 1850 census of Emmett, Calhoun County, MI, Nathan's family was Nathan 39, cabinet maker, born RI, Margaret 38, born England, Bradford 12, George L. 10, Charles M. 7, Jane E. 5, and James H. 2. The birthplace of all children was Michigan.
When the U. S. 1860 census of Decatur, Macon County, IL, was taken Nathan's family was Nathan 51, farmer, born RI, Margaret 45, born England, Bradford 22, George 19, Charles 17, Jane 15, James 12 and Caroline 7. The children were all born in Michigan.
When the U. S. 1880 census of Decatur, Macon County, IL, was taken Jennie 35, born MI, school teacher, was living with her brothers Charles and James.
When the U. S. 1900 census of Decatur, Macon County, IL, was taken Jennie E. born MI, May 1845, single, a school teacher was living in the house of her brother James.
Jennie was a teacher in the public schools of Decatur, Macon County, IL, and never married. She was living in Decatur, Macon County, IL, in 1904.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 2, page 188.
65 M v. James Henry Durfee-[86] 1 was born on 1 May 1848 in Battle Creek, Calhoun County, MI and died on 25 Nov 1903 in Decatur, Macon County, IL. User ID:316.
On the U. S. 1850 census of Emmett, Calhoun County, MI, Nathan's family was Nathan 39, cabinet maker, born RI, Margaret 38, born England, Bradford 12, George L. 10, Charles M. 7, Jane E. 5, and James H. 2. The birthplace of all children was Michigan.
James' parents moved to Decatur in 1858.
When the U. S. 1860 census of Decatur, Macon County, IL, was taken Nathan's family was Nathan 51, farmer, born RI, Margaret 45, born England, Bradford 22, George 19, Charles 17, Jane 15, James 12 and Caroline 7. The children were all born in Michigan.
When the U. S. 1880 census of Decatur, Macon County, IL, was taken James' family was James 32, born MI, real estate agent and title abstract officer, Jennie 21, born IL, and Warren 2, born IL. They were living in the house of his brother Charles.
When the U. S. 1900 census of Decatur, Macon County, IL, was taken James' family was James H. born MI, May 1848, real estate abstracter, Jennie T. born IL, February 1857, married 23 years, had 4 children, 3 still living, Warren T. born IL, September 1868, bank clerk, Lucy J. born IL, October 1872, student, and James H. Jr. born IL, June 1883, railroad clerk. His sister Jennie E. born MI, May 1845, single, school teacher, was also living in the same house.
His widow was living in Decatur in 1904.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 2, pages 188 and 443.
James married someone on 12 Sep 1876 in Decatur, Macon County, IL.
66 F vi. Caroline Callie E. Durfee-[767] 1 was born on 6 Oct 1852 in Battle Creek, Calhoun County, MI and died on 1 Sep 1879 in Decatur, Macon County, IL. User ID:221.
When the U. S. 1860 census of Decatur, Macon County, IL, was taken Nathan's family was Nathan 51, farmer, born RI, Margaret 45, born England, Bradford 22, George 19, Charles 17, Jane 15, James 12 and Caroline 7. The children were all born in Michigan.
Callie never married.
The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE. William Field Reed. Washington, DC. Two volumes. 1902 and 1905. Volume 2, page 188.
A member of the real estate and insurance firm of Warren and DURFEE, was born at Marshall, Michigan, on the
twenty-fifth of March, 1838. The history of the family from which he is descended in this country dates back to
Thomas DURFEE, who came from England and settled at Fall River, Massachusetts, in 1660. Nathan DURFEE, of the
sixth generation in descent from Thomas DURFEE, was born at Fall River; accompanied his father to Ohio when a
small boy; grew up to manhood in that state; and at Cleveland, Ohio, in 1837, married Margaret Kirk, and the
same year removed to Marshall, Michigan. The subject of this sketch was their oldest son. His home was at
Marshall and Battle Creek, Michigan, till 1857, in which year he came to Decatur. For a time after coming to this
state he taught school. His father during the war of the rebellion enlisted in an Ohio regiment, of which Mr.
DURFEE's uncle, B.R. DURFEE, was colonel; and while he was absent in the army Mr. DURFEE had charge of the
farm. In 1863 he was employed by the firm of DURFEE and Warren to prepare the set of abstracts of titles of
Macon county. In 1865 he became a member of the firm of DURFEE, Warren and Co., and has since been associated
with John K. Warren in the real estate and insurance business. He was married in October, 1868, to Lucy W.
Hamilton, of Toledo, Ohio. He was brought up under strong anti-slavery influences. His father was one of the
early abolitionists of Ohio. Mr. DURFEE's sympathies were with the Republican party til 1872, when he believed its
policy to be detrimental to the best interests of the country, and he has since acted with the Democratic
party. In 1878 he was elected as the regular Democratic candidate to the Thirty-first General Assembly. He
served on the committees on appropriations, insurance, banks and banking, and labor and manufactures; gave
close and constant attention to the business before the legislature, and made an efficient member.
================================
Birth note: He was a reader of law, but not a lawyer; in politics a Democrat; was a member of the lower house of the legislature of Illinois in 1879 an d 1881, and a minority candidate for Speaker, in 1881; he was elected an alderman in Decatur, Ill. 1885 and 1886; delegate to the Democrati c National Convention in 1892; was Commissioner of Illinois State Peni tentiary at Joliet, Ill., January to July 12, 1893; Insurance Superint endant of Illinois from July 12, 1893 to May 1, 1897; manager of Insur ance Audit Co., in Chicago Ill., 1905
Bradford married Lucile Williams Hamilton-[69] [MRIN:14], daughter of Thomas Hamilton-[62] and Sarah Olmstead Standart-[63], on 14 Oct 1868 in Toledo, OH.
2. DURFEE Descendants, Vol I, p.18.
3. WM. F. Reed, The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE of Portsmouth, R.I., (Washington, D.C.; Gibson Bros., Printers and Bookbinders, 1902). 248.
4. DURFEE Descendants, Vol I, p.188.
5. Feb 11, 1729 per annotation in NEHGS loan copy of Reed's text.
6. DURFEE Descendants, Vol I, p.29.
7. WM. F. Reed, The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE of Portsmouth, R.I., (Washington, D.C.; Gibson Bros., Printers and Bookbinders, 1902).
8. WM. F. Reed, The Descendants of Thomas DURFEE of Portsmouth, R.I., (Washington, D.C.; Gibson Bros., Printers and Bookbinders, 1902). 457.
9. DURFEE Descendants, Vol I, p.256.
10. Broderbund Family Archive #110, Vol. 1, Ed. 6, Social Security Death Index: U. S. , Date of Import: Aug 25, 1999, Internal Ref. #1.111.6.75852.165.
11. Broderbund Family Archive #110, Vol. 1, Ed. 6, Social Security Death Index: U. S. , Date of Import: Aug 25, 1999, Internal Ref. #1.111.6.75853.119.